›You are here

Home›Destinations›South America›Peru›Quito to Rio Overview

Quito to Rio Overview

    • 79
    • GDOQC
    • Trip Price tool tip
      USD $4,750
      CAD $4,780
      AUD $4,620
      EUR €3,700
      GBP £2,880
      NZD $5,920
      ZAR R36,935
      CHF FR4,285
    • Kitty tool tip
      USD $3,110
      ‡
    • Total price tool tip
      USD $7,860*
      CAD $7,799*
      AUD $7,596*
      EUR €5,870*
      GBP £4,777*
      NZD $9,652*
      ZAR R58,565*
      CHF FR6,745*
      *
    •  
       
       
       
       
    •  
       
       
       
       
    • Overland
    • Basix
Book
‡ As our kitty is flexible the indicated amount is indicative only - please click here to view the kitty amount for your departure date.

Trip Validity

  • 2012-01-01 - 2013-12-31

Enjoy a South American adventure tour from Ecuador to Brazil.

Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of South America on this incredible adventure tour from Quito to Rio de Janeiro. Trek along ancient Inca paths to the magnificent ruins of Machu Picchu, experience life aboard the amazing floating islands of Lake Titicaca and enjoy the pulsating energy of cosmopolitan Buenos Aires. Discover diverse landscapes and breathtaking scenery as you venture deep into the lush Amazon Jungle, traverse soaring Andean mountains, survey vast Bolivian salt flats, marvel at thunderous waterfalls and explore verdant Brazilian forests. Along the way, meet friendly locals and discover the rich cultural heritage of this utterly bewitching continent.

  • Celebrate the adventure in Rio
  • Explore the wetlands of the Pantanal
  • Immerse yourself in the colour of La Paz
  • Marvel at the mysterious Nazca Lines
  • Savour the aromas of a traditional Argentine barbecue
  • Stay at a working cattle ranch
  • Traverse through the surreal landscapes of Salar de Uyuni
  • Watch the sun rise over Machu Picchu

Quito to Rio Summary

Add to Shortlist

Day 1 Quito

Surrounded by soaring mountains, Quito boasts some astonishing views. Absorb the scenic panorama from Parque Itchimbia or make the hair-raising climb into the gothic towers of the Basilica del Voto Nacional.

Days 2-4 Amazon Jungle

Enjoy the warm climate of the upper Amazon Basin, one of the world's most biologically diverse regions. Trek deep into the jungle, visit pools inhabited by caimans, have a chance to meet shaman and fall asleep to the sounds of the jungle.

Days 5-7 Rio Verde

Relish the Rio Verde's year-round temperate weather and perhaps saddle-up for some horse riding or hit the whitewater rapids in a raft.

Days 8-9 Chugchilan/Quilotoa Loop

Enjoy spectacular views while driving along the winding Quilotoa Loop. Stretch legs on a guided trek and overnight in an eco-lodge nestled on the slopes of the Rio Toachi Canyon.

Day 10 Riobamba

Be treated to more stunning scenery on the journey towards Riobamba.

Day 11 Cuenca

Witness the creation of a legendary Panama hat at a local factory before exploring this beautiful city at leisure.

Days 12-13 Punta Sal

Nestled in a long bay on the shores of the Pacific Ocean, Punta Sal is a haven for sun, surf and sand. Head out deep-sea fishing or explore the shoreline aboard a boat. For those looking for something more active, horse riding and salsa lessons are also available.

Days 14-15 Huanchaco

Gaze at extraordinary archaeological finds at the Museum of the Royal Tombs of Sipan en route to Huanchaco, home to the remarkable surfing fisherman. Peruse the ancient ruins of Chan Chan and the incredible Temples of the Sun and Moon.

Days 16-18 Huaraz

Get ready for an action-packed stop! There's the option to go mountain biking, trekking to glassy Llanganuco Lagoon or even climbing over the Pastoruri Glacier. Nestled high in the Andes, Huaraz is dominated by the highest tropical mountain range in the world, the Cordillera Blanca, and by Peru's highest peak, Huascaran.

Days 19-20 Lima

Descend into the eerie catacombs below the Monasterio de San Francisco or admire the exquisitely carved balconies lining the Plaza de Armas. Head to San Isidro or Miraflores for a taste of contemporary Peruvian life.

Day 21 Paracas/Ballestas Islands

Leave the city behind and travel south along the coast of Peru. Pitch a tent in Paracas, which spans over 335,000 hectares and is one of the world's most important marine reserves. Take a walk along the coastline and spot the vibrant birdlife Paracas is famous for.

Day 22 Nazca

Spot penguins, sea lions and boobies during a boat tour through the Ballestas Islands. Learn about the mysterious sand images on a Nazca Lines tour and perhaps take an overhead flight to fully appreciate the scale of this puzzling creation.

Day 23 Puerto Inca

The windswept graves at the Chauchilla Cemetery display the eerie skeletons and mummified bodies of the Nazca people, some of which date from 1,000 AD. Camp overnight near Puerto Inca.

Days 24-25 Arequipa

Explore the scenic city of Arequipa and perhaps stop by the Museo Santury to view Juanita, the ice princess. The body of this frozen Inca maiden is thought to be more than 500 years old, and was found at a sacrificial site on the summit of Nevado Ampato.

Days 26-27 Chivay/Colca Canyon

Why not rejuvinate in the local thermal springs before visiting the spectacular Colca Canyon.

Day 28 Raqchi Homestay

Get to know a local family as guests at a homestay in Raqchi. Spend the evening huddled around a crackling fire, sharing a meal, and discovering traditional Peruvian song and dance.

Days 29-30 Cuzco

Start the day with a visit to an artisan centre to learn about traditional crafts. Fall in love with Cuzco, Peru's most enchanting city. Uncover its ancient heritage at the famous 12-sided stone and ruins of Qorikancha or visit the awe-inspiring cathedral.

Days 31-34 Classic Inca Trail/Quechua Community Trek/Ollantaytambo

Follow in the footsteps of the ancient Incas on this Quechua Community trek through dramatic Andean landscapes. Soak up the spectacular scenery and meet some locals before descending into the Sacred Valley. Alternatively, take the classic Inca Trail trek and hike to Machu Picchu.

Days 35-36 Machu Picchu/Cuzco

The first glimpse of Machu Picchu is truly breathtaking. Discover the fascinating history of this remarkable lost city on a guided tour. Explore the citadel at leisure. Back in Cuzco, soak up the relaxed atmosphere or enjoy some of the optional adventures activities on offer.

Day 37 Puno

Rising dramatically from the desolate desert landscape, the amazing Sillustani funerary towers are testament to the engineering abilities of the area's pre-Incan civilisation. Spend the night in Puno, on the shores of Lake Titicaca.

Days 38-39 Lake Titicaca/Copacabana

Sailing across the glassy surface of Lake Titicaca is a memorable experience. Hike around the car-free Island of the Sun and discover its scenic heart. This island is widely believed to be the birthplace of Inca culture - there are plenty of ancient ruins and traditional villages to explore here.

Days 40-42 La Paz

Arrive in La Paz and set off on foot to explore the myriad of winding streets. La Paz is a colourful, enigmatic city, packed full of markets, restaurants and cultural attractions. Why not stay a few extra days to explore it.

Day 43 Livichuco

Explore the small Andean village of Livichuco, a remote Bolivian retreat that few tourists are lucky enough to experience. Be welcomed into the Aymara community and receive an introduction to their Qaqachaqa culture.

Days 44-45 Potosi

Explore the tin mining city of Potosi and perhaps take an optional tour through a working mine.

Days 46-47 Uyuni/Salar de Uyuni

Visit Salar de Uyuni, the world's largest salt flat, for an astonishing adventure. During the dry season the salar forms a blinding blanket of white; however, when wet it acts as a giant mirror, reflecting the sky and surrounding volcanoes. Continue across the Bolivian altiplano past red lakes and steaming volcanoes.

Day 48 Bolivian Altiplano

Cross the spectacular Bolivian altiplano, past red lakes and steaming volcanoes. Characterised by adventurous routes through challenging terrain, get set for an unforgettable experience.

Days 49-50 San Pedro de Atacama

Travel across the border into Chile and camp at one of the world's best places for stargazing. By day, visit the surreal lunar landscape of Valle de la Luna.

Days 51-53 Salta

Skip across the border again, this time into Argentina. Wander the elegant streets of Salta city and perhaps take the cable car to the top of Cerro San Bernardo - the view of the surrounding mountains is spectacular.

Day 54 Cafayte

Nestled in a picturesque valley in the Andean foothills, Cafayate is a welcomed retreat. Learn about local wine production during an optional vineyard tour and take a walk through the surrounding countryside.

Day 55 Quilmes

Drive through the beautiful Argentinean landscape to the Tucuman province. Camp near the ancient Quilmes Ruins.
View full itinerary

What's included in this trip

  • Start:

    Quito, Ecuador

  • Finish:

    Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

  • Group size:

    Min 4 , Max 22

  • Ages:

    Min 18

  • Meals:

    All meals when camping

  • Accommodation:

    Bush camp (no facilities) (2 nts), Camping (with facilities) (32 nts), Guesthouse (4 nts), Hacienda (2 nts), Homestay (2 nts), Hostel (3 nts), Hotel (29 nts), Lodge (3 nts)

  • Transport:

    Boat, Jeep, Overland vehicle, Train

  • Included activities:

    3 night/3 day Amazon Adventure, Alternative Inca Trail and Quechua Community trek, Ballestas Island entrance fee, Boat trip, Chan Chan Archaeological Site, Chauchilla cemetery, City tour (half day), Isla del Sol boat trip, Jeep tour of Uyuni Salt Flats, Jesuit Mission ruins and museum, San Ignacio de Mini, Lord of Sipan Museum, Machu Picchu guided tour, Paracas National Park, Pyramids of Sun and Moon, Quilmes Ruins, Raqchi Artisan Centre and ruins, Sillustani Ruins and Museum w/Guide, Tour of the Sacred Valley, Sacsayhuaman and Ollantaytambo, Trek from Quilotoa to Chugchilan, Trekking, Uros Island boat trip on Lake Titicaca, Valle de la Luna Excursion, Vineyard Tour, Visit Argentinian side of Iguazu Falls (entrance fee included), Visit Brazilian side of Iguazu Falls (entrance fee included), Visit to Banos

  • Carbon emissions offset:

    2279kg pp per trip

  • Notes:

    1. You need to choose whether you wish to hike the Classic Inca Trail or the <a href="http://www.intrepidtravel.com/pdf/inca-advisory/Community_Trek_Peru.pdf&quot;&gt; Quechua Community Trek </a> at the time of booking. If you do not indicate a preference, the <a href="http://www.intrepidtravel.com/pdf/inca-advisory/Community_Trek_Peru.pdf&quot;&gt; Quechua Community Trek </a> will be confirmed automatically.

    Classic Inca Trail permits are sold on a request basis only. Once deposit is paid and passport details provided, Intrepid will endeavour to secure a permit for you. If Classic Inca Trail permits are unavailable by the time you book, you will be booked on the <a href="http://www.intrepidtravel.com/pdf/inca-advisory/Community_Trek_Peru.pdf&quot;&gt; Quechua Community Trek </a> instead.

    The Classic Inca Trail closes in February to allow cleaning and restoration works. If the trek portion of your trip starts in February you will be automatically booked to hike the <a href="http://www.intrepidtravel.com/pdf/inca-advisory/Community_Trek_Peru.pdf&quot;&gt; Quechua Community Trek </a>.

    Should you choose not to hike at all, please let us know in writing at the time of booking so alternative arrangements can be made. Without this prior warning, local fees may apply.

    2. Please note that this trip requires minimum numbers to depart, and may be cancelled up until 56 days prior to departure. The places showing on the dates and availability page are an indication only so please contact Intrepid to check if your preferred date will depart before making any final arrangements, such as booking non-changeable flights.

  • Trip price from

    USD $4,750
    CAD $4,780
    AUD $4,620
    EUR €3,700
    GBP £2,880
    NZD $5,920
    ZAR R36,935
    CHF FR4,285
    Price information
  • +

    Kitty

    USD $3,110
    ‡ Price information

  • Total price from

    USD $7,860*
    CAD $7,799*
    AUD $7,596*
    EUR €5,870*
    GBP £4,777*
    NZD $9,652*
    ZAR R58,565*
    CHF FR6,745*
    *     Price information
  • * Refer to booking conditions
  • ‡ As our kitty is flexible the indicated amount is indicative only - please click here to view the kitty amount for your departure date.

  • Per day from:

    USD $99
    CAD $98
    AUD $96
    EUR €74
    GBP £60
    NZD $122
    ZAR R741
    CHF FR85
Book

About Argentina , Bolivia , Brazil , Chile , Ecuador , Peru

    • 79
    • GDOQC
    • Trip Price tool tip
      USD $4,750
      CAD $4,780
      AUD $4,620
      EUR €3,700
      GBP £2,880
      NZD $5,920
      ZAR R36,935
      CHF FR4,285
    • Kitty tool tip
      USD $3,110
      ‡
    • Total price tool tip
      USD $7,860*
      CAD $7,799*
      AUD $7,596*
      EUR €5,870*
      GBP £4,777*
      NZD $9,652*
      ZAR R58,565*
      CHF FR6,745*
      *
    •  
       
       
       
       
    •  
       
       
       
       
    • Overland
    • Basix
Book
‡ As our kitty is flexible the indicated amount is indicative only - please click here to view the kitty amount for your departure date.

Shortlist

No trips.
Trip Map

Recently Viewed

Clear list

intrepid meet up

Check Inca Trail Permit Status

You must check that permits are available for the date you start the Inca Trail. For example, if your trip starts on July 11, and the Inca Trail starts on day 4, you will need your permit on July 14.

This information should be used as a guide only as availability may change by the time we receive your request.

  • Date

  • Availability

Inca Trail Availability

Available

Inca Trail permits are available. You can book your trip for this date.

Contact us

Inca Trail permits may still be available, please contact us so we can check the current availability and make arrangements for you.

Alternative Routes

Inca Trail permits are now sold out. However, you can opt to hike the Inca Quarry Trail - with spectacular and diverse sceneries this trek is an exceptional alternative to the very busy Inca Trail. Alternatively, travel by train through the picturesque Urubamba Valley to Aguas Calientes. Both options include a visit to Machu Picchu! Please contact us to arrange the one that suits you best!