Ultimate Peru, Argentina & Brazil





Discover the delights of South America in Peru, Argentina and Brazil
There are many sides to South America, from the energy of the cities, the beauty of the lansdcapes and the spirit of its people. Discover it all on this trip that winds through the Inca heartlands and jungles of Peru, the enigmatic cities and natural wonders of Argentina and the dynamism of Brazil's vivacious Rio. See animals, meet locals, traverse trails and marvel at all the contrasts of this very special corner of the world.

- Start
- Lima, Peru
- End
- Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Meals
- 27 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 6 dinners
- Transport
- Boat, Bus, Canoe, Private Vehicle, Plane, Taxi
- Accommodation
- Camping (with basic facilities) (3 nights), Homestay (2 nights), Hotel (20 nights), Jungle Lodge (2 nights)
- Days
- 30
- Group size
- Min 1 - Max 12
- Ages
- Min 15
- ThemeOur themes categorise trips based on a common interest or activity, while showcasing the highlights of a destination.
- Explorer
- StyleBasix: Simple accommodation, local transport and lots of free time
Original: Tourist-class hotels, some meals included and a great mix of included activities and free time
Comfort: Comfortable accommodation, with a relaxed pace of travel and many included meals and activities
Premium: 4+ star accommodation, exclusive premium inclusions, our most experienced leaders - Original
- Physical ratingIndicates how physically exerting a trip is, and how fit you will need to be to enjoy it. More info on physical ratings
Why you'll love this trip
- Whether you trek the classic Inca Trail, the Inca Quarry Trail or take the scenic train route, the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu are a majestic destination, no matter how you get there.
- The floating islands of Uros on Lake Titicaca are a marvel of concept, construction and history. Take a boat tour on the lake and spend the night with a local family in a traditional island community.
- The Amazon Jungle is known as the world's lungs. Get a glimpse into a wild place with some of the largest biodiversity on Earth.
- With included visits to Iguazu Falls from both the Argentinian and Brazilian sides, you'll get the most out of this jaw-dropping natural wonder.
- At Intrepid we’ve always been about balancing profit and purpose and as the largest B Corp certified operator on the Inca Trail we’re committed to operating our treks for the benefit of all – join us and help make the world a better place.
Itinerary
Bienvenidos! Welcome to Peru. With Indigenous cultures dating back millennia, this country is a fascinating land of Amazonian rainforests, diverse wildlife and soaring mountains. Your adventure begins in Lima with a welcome meeting at 4 pm at your hotel. Embark on an optional Lima Bites and Sights Tour with Urban Adventures, taking you to the bohemian Barranco district to sample the best local street food and pisco cocktails.
There are no meals included on this day.
- Lima - Gold Museum Entrance Fee - PEN35
- Lima - Coast Biking Tour - Urban Adventure (Price based on 2 participants) - USD52
- Lima - Lima Discovery + San Francisco and Pisco Sour - Urban Adventures (Price based on 2 participants) - USD39
- Lima - Private: Home Cooked Tour Ceviche experience Urban Adventure (Based on 2 Participants) - USD85
- Lima - Lima Eat Street (Based on 4 participants) - USD75
- Lima - Bohemian Barranco (Based on 4 participants) - USD75
- Lima - Lima Water Show (Based on 4 participants) - USD40
- Lima - Private Larco Museum (Based on 4 participants) - USD50
- Lima - Lima Pisco Making (Based on 4 participants) - USD35
It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information at this time. If you are going to be late, please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place.
Set out on a walking tour of Lima's downtown, where streets are flanked with colonial mansions, palaces and churches. See the iconic Plaza Mayor with its imposing Cathedral on foot, then board a local bus bound for Paracas. The bus may stop three or four times along the way during the 4-hour journey. There are no planned activities upon arrival, but you may want to seek out a bar serving Peru's national libation – this is the birthplace of the Pisco sour, after all.
- Breakfast
Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
This morning, wildlife enthusiasts might like to visit the Ballestas Islands in Paracas National Reserve for a chance to spot pelicans, red-footed boobies and flamingos on a 2-hour boat tour. Otherwise, take it easy with some more self-paced sightseeing in Paracas before the drive to one of the world's most mysterious archaeological sites – the Nazca Lines – a group of geoglyphs in the soil of the Nazca Desert, created between 500 BCE and 500 CE. Along the way, you’ll stop in the town of Huacachina. This little settlement sits beside a small lake with dramatic sand dunes. Here, enjoy the photo opportunities, you can also climb to the viewing platform or take an optional flight over the lines for the best views.
- Breakfast
- Ballestas Islands - Guided tour - PEN97
- Nazca - Scenic flight over the Nazca Lines (excluding 77 PEN Taxes at Nazca Airport) - USD100
Between June and September, the port to Ballestas Islands might be closed due to weather conditions. If this happens, you’ll be offered an alternative land tour of the Paracas National Reserve instead.
Flights over the Nazca Lines turn sharply to facilitate optimum viewing and are not recommended for those who experience severe motion sickness. Several local operators offer flights over the lines and there have been safety issues in the past. If you wish to book a scenic flight today, your leader can only assist you with companies that Intrepid Travel has risk assessed and deemed safe. Your leader is specifically prohibited from recommending or assisting in booking this activity through any other operators, including transfers to and from other operators. To ensure you don’t miss out, this activity is now available to be pre-booked, just speak to your booking agent.
This morning after breakfast, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the eerie desert graveyard of Chauchilla, where the arid conditions have naturally interred the remains of the Nazca people buried here. In the afternoon you'll board a bus from Nazca to Arequipa.
- Breakfast
- Chauchilla Cemetery Tour
- Nazca - Scenic flight over the Nazca Lines (excluding 77 PEN Taxes at Nazca Airport) - USD100
Your travel time today will be approximately 10 hours.
Arrive at Arequipa this morning, check into your hotel room, refresh and enjoy some breakfast before you venture out for the day. Standing at the foot of El Misti Volcano and oozing Spanish colonial charm, Arequipa vies with Cusco for the title of Peru's most attractive city. Built out of a pale volcanic rock called sillar, the old buildings dazzle in the sun, giving the city its nickname – the White City. The main plaza, with its cafes and nearby cathedral, is a lovely place to while away the day. You have free time today, so maybe wander the main plaza and explore the cathedral, many cafes and eateries. You may like to visit the Andean Sanctuaries Museum, which houses Peru’s famous Ice Maiden – the Inca mummy of a girl who died in the 1440s.
- Breakfast
- Arequipa - Santa Catalina Monastery Admission Fee - PEN45
- Arequipa - Juanita Museum Admission Fee - PEN20
From January to April, Juanita is switched to a different ‘mummy’, Sarita, so that she can be properly preserved and maintained.
Today you’ll travel about 5 hours by minivan to the town of Chivay. Along the way, you’ll see llamas, alpacas and vicunas – not sure how to differentiate between these adorable creatures? Your tour leader will explain the differences between them. You’ll also stop for breaks, photo opportunities and to try some local coca tea. The third stop takes you to the highest point on the tour at Patapama (4800 metres above sea level) before descending to your destination of Chivay. Enjoy a break for lunch in town, from here you can either spend the evening soaking in the baths, dining on llama steak at a nearby restaurant or seeing some live Andean music at a pena (local bar).
- Breakfast
- Colca Canyon - La Calera hot springs - PEN15
Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.
When stopping off at Patapama, you’ll likely experience some shortness of breath. This is nothing to worry about as it’s a short stop and the bus will quickly descend to a lower altitude. Remember to prepare for altitude sickness before the trip. The accommodation in Chivay is very basic, has no heating and can sometimes be noisy. There are ensuite toilets, and you may request extra blankets on a chilly night.
This morning visit the Colca Canyon, more than twice as deep as the Grand Canyon, the Colca has some breathtaking views. Here you’ll see terraced crops that have been cultivated since pre-Inca times by local villages. This is also the home of the Andean condor. Witness one of the world’s largest flying birds soar above and below you from a prime viewing point above the canyon.
Later you’ll board a bus to Puno, it’s a long drive, but the dramatic views of Peru’s highlands – the Altiplano – make it an exceptionally scenic one too. Puno is located on the shores of Lake Titicaca, which you’ll explore in the coming days. Upon arrival, take the change to get acquainted with the town. Puno is known as Peru’s folklore capital, this is due in no small part to its thriving indigenous cultures, including the Aymara and Quechua. If you’re lucky enough to arrive during a festival, you’ll be treated to an elaborate parade of costumes and dances.
- Breakfast
- Colca Canyon -Guided tour
Your travel time today will be approximately 10 hours.
Puno continues to experience some occasional ongoing political unrest. With safety always our priority, on some departures, you may need to use alternative transportation to avoid affected areas. Your tour leader will advise of any specific changes to transport or the itinerary in this destination that needs to be put in place.
This morning, you’ll take a tour of the immense Lake Titicaca by motorboat, stopping at the floating Uros Islands that look like they could come from a Pixar or Studio Ghibli movie. Built by the Uros people to protect themselves from encroaching Inca forces hundreds of years ago, the islands are constructed from many layers of totora reeds that grow in the shallows of the lake. Get a closer look at contemporary life on the shores of the lake with a homestay in a local community. Help your host family with their daily activities, try out a few words in the Quechua language and maybe even join a local soccer game to make some friends on the makeshift pitch. Tonight, sit down and swap stories with your hosts, who will cook you a feast full of traditional Peruvian favourites.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Lake Titicaca - Boat tour & Homestay
Your homestay tonight is a traditional mud brick house. Rooms have beds and many blankets, and there are shared drop toilets, but no showers.
This morning after breakfast, board another motorboat and cruise to Taquile Island – known for the intricate, hand-knitted textiles the locals produce. Here, knitting is strictly a male domain and women do the spinning. It's a great place to pick up some high-quality, locally knitted goods, with the added bonus of supporting the local community. Then, take an hour uphill trek to the main area of the island, where you can shop for handicrafts. After, descend about 500 steps to the boat. Return to Puno, where you might like to gather your group and find a local watering hole to enjoy a drink or two – try a chilcano or indulge in another pisco sour.
- Breakfast
Your travel time today will be about 4 hours.
Take a scenic bus ride across the Altiplano towards Cusco – the continent’s oldest continuously inhabited city. Here, colonial buildings are built on foundations from ancient Inca times. Spend some time acclimatising to the high altitude of 3450 m, then set out to discover some of Cusco's lesser-known sights on a guided walking tour. Visit the facade of Qoricancha temple, San Pedro market, the main square, 12 Angled Stone, Regocijo Square and San Blas Square. End the walking tour at Cusco's Chocolate Museum where you'll get to sample a dissolute cup of hot chocolate made from local cacao beans. There’s also a small store where you can browse handicrafts and artisanal chocolate products.
- Breakfast
- Cusco - Leader-led orientation walk
- Cusco - Chocolate Museum Visit & Hot Chocolate
- Cusco - Coricancha Temple (entrance fee) - PEN15
Your travel time today will be about 7 hours.
Enjoy a free day in Cusco – the heart and soul of Peru. You may like to visit one of the city’s many museums and archaeological sites with a boleto turistico (tourism ticket). This includes the Contemporary Art Museum, Regional History Museum, Qosqo Native Art Museum and the Inca ruins of Saqsaywaman, Q'enqo, Puka Pukara, Pisac and Ollantaytambo. The most easily accessible among these sites is Coricancha, which was once the Incan empire's richest temple until the Spanish built a Dominican church on top of it. Just speak to your trip leader to organise this pass.
- Breakfast
- Cusco - Pisco Making Urban Adventure (Based on 2 participants) - USD57
- Sacred Valley - Mountain Biking (Price Based on 2 Participants) - USD170
- Cusco - Full Day Stand Up Paddle Boarding (Based on 4 participants) - USD85
- Cusco - Full Day Via Ferrata & Zipline - USD95
- Cusco - Humantay Lake Hike (Based on 4 participants) - USD130
- Cusco - Cusco Cooking Class - USD70
- Cusco - Rainbow Mountain Hike (Based on 4 participants) - USD105
- Cusco - Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain Hike (Based on 4 paticipants) - USD100
Depending on the travel arrangements you made before the trip, during the next four days you’ll be either hiking the Inca Trail (Route 1), hiking the Quarry Trail (Route 2) or staying in Cusco for two days before taking the train to Aguas Calientes (Route 3). All routes visit Machu Picchu.
While away from Cusco, the bulk of your luggage will be stored at your hotel. If you’re hiking the Inca Trail or the Quarry Trail, the evening before you leave, you'll receive a small duffle bag to carry your clothes in for the next four days (5 kg maximum). Your team of porters will carry these bags for you, together with the food and equipment for the trail. You won't have access to these items until the end of each day, as the porters will always be ahead of the group. If you’re travelling to Aguas Calientes by train, you'll be able to leave most of your luggage at the hotel in Cusco and travel with only a small bag for the overnight stay in Aguas Calientes.
Route 1 Inca Trail
Today, travel by minivan to the 82 km marker and meet your crew of local porters, your cook and your guide. Your first day will include uphill trekking to the campsite, which sits at 3100 m above sea level. On the way, you’ll see the Inca sites of Ollantaytambo, Huillca Raccay and Llactapata, as well as incredible views of snow-capped Veronica Peak. In the evening, unwind at the campsite with a nourishing meal prepared by your cook.
Route 2 Quarry Trail
Make an early start today and drive to Choquequilla, a small ceremonial place where Incas worshipped the moon. From here, you’ll head to the small community near Qory Song’o (Golden Heart) hill, where you’ll climb to the top for the incredible views of the Soqma Perolniyoc, Pachar and Huarocondo valleys. There are also several sacred tombs in the area, protected by the locals, which you can explore with your leader and even see some of the original structure crafted from wood and leather. These remains have never been seen by travellers before, so you can be a part of this exclusive experience. Carry on to the Perolniyoc Cascade lookout, where you can stop for some snacks and photos. Arrive at the campsite, 3700 m above sea level, around lunchtime. After, set off to explore the Q'orimarca archaeological site, which once served as a checkpoint to the Incas.
Route 3 Cusco:
Train Option stays in Cusco to have time to visit one of the many museums and archaelogical sites; the most accesible among these sites is Coricancha that was the richest temple in inkan times. Just speak with your tour leader to organise an optional activity as well.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- 3 Night/4 Day Inca Trail (or 2 Night/3 Day Inca Quarry Trail) guided hike(s) with porters' support. Or guided Cusco stay (Machu Picchu by train)
- Cusco - Full Boleto Turistico Pass (access to 16 archaeological sites, transport & guides not included) - PEN135
- Cusco - Half Boleto Turistico Pass (access to selected archaeological sites, transport & guides not included) - PEN75
Route 1 Inca Trail (starting elevation 2688m) - Your trekking time today will be approximately 8 hours or 12 km, with an elevation gain of 412m and a descent of 68m
Route 2 Quarry Trail (starting elevation 3220m) - Your trekking time today will be approximately 6.5 hours or 7 km, with an elevation gain of 480m and a descent of 0m
Included lunch and dinner today are for travellers on the trekking options only.
The Inca Trail is within the ability of anyone with a moderate level of fitness. The trail is 45 km long and often steep. Each day's journey generally consists of seven hours of walking (uphill and downhill), with stops for snacks and lunch. Trekking usually begins at 7 am (except on the fourth morning) and you reach the campsite around 5 pm. Accommodation on the trek is camping (three nights). Double tents (twin-share) and foam camping mats will be provided. The porters will set up the tents while the cook prepares meals.
The Quarry Trail is within the ability of anyone with a moderate level of fitness. The hike is 31 km long and its highest pass is at 4450 m above sea level. Horses will carry your gear and camping equipment. The first two nights are spent camping, and the third night you’ll stay at a simple hotel. Double tents (twin-share) and foam camping mats will be provided. The porters will set up the tents while the cook prepares meals.
Route 1 Inca Trail
This is the most challenging day of the trek, as you ascend a 5-hour long steep path to reach the highest point of the trail. Colloquially known as 'Dead Woman's Pass', Warmiwanusca sits at a height of 4200 m above sea level, providing amazing views of the valley below. The group will then descend to the campsite in the Pacaymayo Valley at 3650 m.
Route 2 Quarry Trail
This is the most challenging and rewarding day of the hike. A 3-hour walk takes you to the top of the first pass of Puccaqasa, about 4370 m high. After enjoying the picturesque views of the valley, it’s a short walk before stopping for lunch. After, make the 2-hour hike to Kuychicassa, the highest pass of the trek at 4450 m. From here, descend to the sacred site that the Incas called Intipunku. This is a sun gate, where the sun will stream through at particular times of the year and there are views of the Nevado Veronica mountain year-round. The Incas built several sun gates, the most notable overlooking Machu Picchu. Head to the campsite, only a stone’s throw away and at 3600 m.
Route 3 Cusco
This morning, drive through the Sacred Valley. Known as Wilcamayo to the Incas, the valley has been a source of livelihood for the locals for hundreds of years. You’ll see maize crops covering the terraced walls and the sacred river beneath. Stop for lunch in a local community, where you'll also get the chance to learn about their traditional lifestyle and maybe wrap your tongue around a few words of the Quechua language. stay tonight in Ollantaytamb, where you will have the option to check out the town’s fascinating archaeological site – ancient remnants of an Inca city with soaring views over the present-day settlement.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Ollantaytambo - Archaeological site - PEN70
Route 1 Inca Trail - Your trekking time today will be approximately 8 hours or 12 km, with an elevation gain of 1127m and a descent of 627m
Route 2 Quarry Trail - Your trekking time today will be approximately 7.5 hours or 14 km, with an elevation gain of 750m and a descent of 700m
Included lunch and dinner today are for travellers on the trekking options only.
Route 1 Inca Trail
Start the day with a climb through the Pacaymayo Valley to Runkuracay Pass at 3980 m. Enjoy views of the snow-capped mountain of Cordillera Vilcabamba before descending for around 2 to 3 hours to the ruins of Sayacmarca. Continue over the trail’s third pass to the ruins of Phuyupatamarca at 3850 m, also known as the 'Town Above the Clouds'. Start the 2-hour descent down the Inca steps to the final night's campsite by the Winay Wayna archaeological site.
Route 2 Quarry Trail
Today’s hike will all be downhill. The first stop is the incomplete Kachiqata quarry, where the Incas were intercepted by the Spanish. Explore the cobbled streets of Ollantaytambo when you finish your trek, before taking the short train journey to Aguas Calientes. This is where you’ll meet with the travellers in your group who didn't hike. Spend the night in a hotel before tomorrow’s visit to Machu Picchu.
Route 3 Train to Aguas Calientes
Today you’ll meet up with the travellers in your group who may have hiked the Quarry Trail. You’ll catch a 1.5-hour train through the winding Urubamba Valley to Aguas Calientes. The city is nestled in the cloud forest at the foot of Machu Picchu. Spend the night in a hotel before tomorrow’s visit to Machu Picchu.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Machu Picchu Site Museum - PEN25
Route 1 Inca Trail - Your trekking time today will be approximately 10 hours or 15 km, with an elevation gain of 400m and a descent of 1350m
Route 2 Quarry Trail - Your trekking time today will be approximately 4.5 hours or 10 km, with an elevation gain of 0m and a descent of 950m
Included lunch and dinner today are for travellers on the Inca Trail trekking option only. There is an included lunch for travellers on the Quarry Trail trekking option.
Route 1 Inca Trail
This is the final and most spectacular leg of the trek to Machu Picchu – one of the famed Wonders of the World. The day starts before dawn, with breakfast at 4 am. Say farewell to the porters as they descend to the train station and begin hiking. Once the final checkpoint opens at 5 am, you’ll begin the final 2.5-hour trek to Intipunku (the Sun Gate). Weather permitting, you’ll enjoy unforgettable views over the ‘Lost City of the Incas’ as you enter Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate.
Route 2 and 3 Machu Picchu to Cusco
Take an early bus up to Machu Picchu at 5.30 am. The city was built around 1440 AD as a country retreat for the Incan nobility, but there’s evidence that the land had been a sacred Incan site for much longer. Take a guided tour around the ruins of temples, palaces and living quarters. This is a day to remember!
For all travellers, after taking advantage of the seemingly endless photo opportunities, it's time to catch the bus to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll stop for lunch together. From here, take a scenic train ride to Ollantaytambo, then drive back to Cusco, arriving in the evening.
- Breakfast
- Machu Picchu - Entrance and guided tour
Route 1 Inca Trail - Your trekking time today will be approximately 4 hours or 6 km, with an elevation gain of 81m and a descent of 331m
Due to safety reasons the final checkpoint for all trekkers opens at 5 am. The estimated arrival time at Machu Picchu's Sun Gate for Inca Trail trekkers is approximately 7.30 am. For Quarry Trail trekkers and train travellers, the first bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu departs at 5.30 am. The estimated arrival time is between 6 and 6.30 am. The sun rises at Machu Picchu at approximately 5.30 am, so it's not possible to be there in time for sunrise.
Due to Intrepid's internal safety policy, our leaders are specifically prohibited from recommending or assisting with booking trips to the mountaintop ruins of Wayna Picchu.
Enjoy free time to relax, shop and explore more of Cusco's many sights. Maybe rest your weary legs at a cafe on Plaza de Armas or head to the San Pedro Market where you can find vegetables, meats, local cheeses, chocolates, herbal medicines and many local handicrafts. It’s a great place to pick up souvenirs or ingredients for a picnic. The market is also where many locals (and daring travellers) go to eat ‘mystery soups.’ Some may be just chicken – however, the most popular among the locals usually contain frogs or offal. For those looking for something active, why not try mountain biking in the hills that surround Cusco?
- Breakfast
- Sacred Valley - Mountain Biking (Price Based on 2 Participants) - USD170
- Cusco - Full Day Via Ferrata & Zipline - USD95
- Cusco - Full Day Stand Up Paddle Boarding (Based on 4 participants) - USD85
- Cusco - Pisco Making Urban Adventure (Based on 2 participants) - USD57
- Cusco - Humantay Lake Hike (Based on 4 participants) - USD130
- Cusco - Cusco Cooking Class - USD70
- Cusco - Rainbow Mountain Hike (Based on 4 participants) - USD105
- Cusco - Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain Hike (Based on 4 paticipants) - USD100
- Cusco - 4 Ruins + Qorikancha (Price based on 4 participants) - USD40
Rise and shine early today for your journey into the wilds of the Peruvian Amazon. Take an early transfer to the airport, then fly to Puerto Maldonado. Here, you’ll pack a small duffle bag with essentials for the next two days. Board a motorised canoe and cruise deep into the jungle. The journey to your eco-lodge in the Madre de Dios region will take a couple of hours, so you’ll stop for lunch along the way. Settle into your thatched-roof lodge before a short orientation walk of your surroundings. Spend the evening taking in the sights and smells of the jungle and enjoy an I’m-so-far-from-home moment.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Amazon Jungle - Amazon jungle lodge stay
Your travel time today is approximately 6 hours.
Intrepid uses two different lodges in the same area. The activities may vary slightly according to which lodge you’re at. The included night excursion may be tonight or tomorrow. As both lodges are in the same area of the jungle, you’ll see the same wildlife and your overall jungle experience will be the same.
Get ready for an unforgettable day exploring the depths of the jungle! Set out on a half-day trek guided by local experts on the area's flora and fauna. Learn from your guides about the medicinal and practical uses for some of the plants that grow here, which Indigenous people have been studying and using for thousands of years. On your walk, keep an eye out for rainbow macaws and butterflies, and listen for the barking call of the peccaries and chattering of monkeys that call the jungle home. This part of the Amazon is also known to house capybaras, giant otters and jabirus, so keep your eyes peeled for these exotic creatures. Return to the lodge for lunch and some free time to relax. Once the sun goes down, venture out on a night walk in search of some of the jungle's nocturnal inhabitants (caimans, jaguars and anacondas).
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Today’s jungle walk is about 11 km. The paths can get quite muddy, and the walk is quite tiring for some, but well worth it!
Leave behind the natural wonders of the Amazon and return to Puerto Maldonado where a flight will take the group back to Lima. One of our local representatives will meet you at the airport and will accompany you back to the hotel. Time permitting, the rest of the day is free to explore more of Lima's sights and maybe do some last-minute souvenir shopping. In the evening, maybe gather the group together for one last night out on the town and a celebratory farewell dinner of Peruvian favourites.
- Breakfast
- Lima - Archaeological Museum (entrance fee) - PEN15
- Lima - Museum of the Inquisition - Free
- Lima - Lima Discovery + San Francisco and Pisco Sour - Urban Adventures (Price based on 2 participants) - USD39
- Lima - Coast Biking Tour - Urban Adventure (Price based on 2 participants) - USD52
- Lima - Lima Eat Street (Based on 4 participants) - USD75
- Lima - Bohemian Barranco (Based on 4 participants) - USD75
- Lima - Lima Water Show (Based on 4 participants) - USD40
- Lima - Private Larco Museum (Based on 4 participants) - USD50
- Lima - Lima Pisco Making (Based on 4 participants) - USD35
- Lima - Private Lima: Home Cooked Tour Urban Adventure (Based on 2 participants) - USD85
Your travel time today will be approximately 2 to 5 hours depending on available flight connections.
Say ‘hasta luego’ to Peru and board a flight to Argentina’s fiery capital – Buenos Aires. Buenos Aires is the ultimate cosmopolitan city, with Latin passion, European elegance and its own distinctive style. Relax in your hotel tonight or hit the streets for some solo exploration.
There are no meals included on this day.
Please note that you won't be accompanied by a trip leader for today, in Lima or Buenos Aires.
You have a free day today to explore bustling Buenos Aires – why not visit San Telmo and its weekend antiques market and artists' displays? Or maybe visit Recoleta (the grand cemetery) or Casa Rosada (the Pink House). Tonight, you’ll have another welcome meeting at 6 pm to meet your new trip leader and group members. Your leader will leave a note at the hotel reception telling you where this important meeting will take place.
There are no meals included on this day.
- Buenos Aires - Coastal train - USD10
- Buenos Aires - Tango show ticket prices from - USD120
- Buenos Aires - Football game (subject to availability) from - USD120
As this is a combo trip, the travellers in your group and your group leader will likely change today.
Enjoy some breakfast, then embark on an orientation walk through this fantastic city. You'll be introduced to some of Buenos Aires' major sights – the likes of the Colon Theatre, the Obelisc and Plaza de Mayo. Along the way, learn a little more about Argentina's independence from Spain.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Buenos Aires - Leader-led orientation walk
- Buenos Aires - Polo day - USD185
This mroning catch a short flight to Posadas, followed by a drive to Ituzaingo (approximately 1 hour). Ituizangó will serve as your base to explore the beautiful Ibera Wetlands region in the north of Argentina. Spanning more than 15,000 square kilometres, the Ibera wetlands are roughly the size of Belgium, which gives you an idea of how much there is to explore. The biodiversity in incredible, and the swamps, lakes and lagoons are home to such creatures as otters, alligators, deer, wolves and black howler monkeys, just to name a few. Keep a look out too for those oddly noble-looking creatures, the capybaras. These cousins of guinea pigs are the largest rodents in the world.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
Take part on a full day (approximately 8-10 hour) walking tour and car safari with a guide. You might see any number of obscure species – maybe caiman or swamp deer, perhaps even an armadillo, or a flock of rhea (which are like a South American equivalent of an emu). Anacondas, though particularly hard to spot at certain times of the year, are also known to inhabit these wetlands. Keep an eye to the sky, as you're bound to catch a glimpse of some of the 350 bird species here, from the sharp-tailed tyrant to the gorgeous and garish yellow robin. For lunch enjoy a delicious barbecue (Asado) and even have a go at kneading some dough to bake Argentinian bread. Chat to your friendly hosts and gain insight into everyday life in Argentina while sampling some traditonal mate (tea).
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Ibera Wetlands - Day tour
Enjoy some breakfast and prepare for a long travel day. From Ituizangó take a comfortable local bus to Puerto Iguazu (approximately 7 hours). Arrive at Puerto Iguazu bus station and take a mini van to visit a Guarani community for the rare opportunity to meet some of the region’s few remaining indigenous people. Later, cross the border into Brazil and continue to your hotel in Foz do Iguazu (approximately one hour, depending on traffic at the Argentina–Brazil border).
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Iguazu Falls - Guarani community visit
Here at Iguazu, you'll visit the mighty waterfalls from both the Brazilian and Argentinian sides. At over 2 kilometres long, Iguazu Falls are actually a series of cataracts. There are over 270 falls in all, and with some reaching up to 80 metres in height, they are wider than Victoria Falls and higher than Niagara. Enjoy the magnificent panoramas on the Brazilian side of Iguazu Falls. Seeing the falls from this side has its perks, such as a view of San Martin Island which you don't quite get from the Argentinean side. You might like to take a helicopter ride over the falls while you're here. This optional excursion gives you spectacular views of the falls and the lush green parklands that surround it.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Iguazu Falls - Tour of the Brazilian side of the falls
- Iguazu Falls - Zodiac ride up to the falls - USD90
- Iguazu Falls - Helicopter ride - USD130
- Iguazu Falls - Bird Park Entrance - BRL80
Today we go to the Argentinean side of the Falls where it’s possible to follow a series of boardwalks to get up close to the thundering waters – so close you can almost touch them.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Iguazu Falls - Tour of the Argentinian side of the falls
- Iguazu Falls - Zodiac ride up to the falls - USD90
Travel by plane to Rio de Janeiro, the festive heart of Brazil. Settle into your hotel and then set out on an orientation walk with your leader. Rio is a fascinating and diverse city best known for its contrasting images of favelas (shanty towns) and the glitz and glamour of Carnaval. With free time, you can choose from many optional activities. Perhaps head to a football game, take a cable car ride between Praia Vermelha and the Sugarloaf Mountain for incredible views over town. For further options, chat to your leader.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Rio de Janeiro - Carnival rehearsal (June to Carnival only) from - BRL120
- Rio de Janeiro - Football Game (schedule dependent) from - BRL400
- Rio de Janeiro - Sugarloaf Mountain Cable Car (entrance) - BRL160
This morning you'll be picked up at your hotel first thing in the morning and head straight to Christ the Redeemer to beat the crowds. Soak up the early morning air and take some photos of this iconic statue before heading to a traditional local Farmer's Market. Your local leader will show you some of the best foods to try as well as providing plenty of interesting facts about the market traditions. Today you'll have a free afternoon, so may wish to return to the hotel with your leader to relax. Otherwise, a visit to Sugarloaf is a great way to spend the rest of the day.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Rio de Janeiro - Corcovado, Christ the Redeemer & Farmer's Market Urban Adventure
There are no activities planned for the final day and you are able to depart the accommodation at any time.
- Breakfast
- Ilha Grande - Day trip - BRL390
ILHA GRANDE OPTIONAL ACTIVITY:
This activity will only run on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays. If you wish to do this activity and your tour does not finish on one of these days you may need to book additional accommodation to allow for this activity. Pick up time for this activity is between 6am and 7:30am and does not return to Rio until approximately 8:30pm.
Inclusions and activities
27 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 6 dinners
Boat, Bus, Canoe, Private Vehicle, Plane, Taxi
Camping (with basic facilities) (3 nights), Homestay (2 nights), Hotel (20 nights), Jungle Lodge (2 nights)
- Chauchilla Cemetery Tour
- Colca Canyon -Guided tour
- Lake Titicaca - Boat tour & Homestay
- Cusco - Leader-led orientation walk
- Cusco - Chocolate Museum Visit & Hot Chocolate
- 3 Night/4 Day Inca Trail (or 2 Night/3 Day Inca Quarry Trail) guided hike(s) with porters' support. Or guided Cusco stay (Machu Picchu by train)
- Machu Picchu - Entrance and guided tour
- Amazon Jungle - Amazon jungle lodge stay
- Buenos Aires - Leader-led orientation walk
- Ibera Wetlands - Day tour
- Iguazu Falls - Guarani community visit
- Iguazu Falls - Tour of the Brazilian side of the falls
- Iguazu Falls - Tour of the Argentinian side of the falls
- Rio de Janeiro - Corcovado, Christ the Redeemer & Farmer's Market Urban Adventure
- Lima - Gold Museum Entrance Fee - PEN35
- Lima - Coast Biking Tour - Urban Adventure (Price based on 2 participants) - USD52
- Lima - Lima Discovery + San Francisco and Pisco Sour - Urban Adventures (Price based on 2 participants) - USD39
- Lima - Private: Home Cooked Tour Ceviche experience Urban Adventure (Based on 2 Participants) - USD85
- Lima - Lima Eat Street (Based on 4 participants) - USD75
- Lima - Bohemian Barranco (Based on 4 participants) - USD75
- Lima - Lima Water Show (Based on 4 participants) - USD40
- Lima - Private Larco Museum (Based on 4 participants) - USD50
- Lima - Lima Pisco Making (Based on 4 participants) - USD35
- Ballestas Islands - Guided tour - PEN97
- Nazca - Scenic flight over the Nazca Lines (excluding 77 PEN Taxes at Nazca Airport) - USD100
- Arequipa - Santa Catalina Monastery Admission Fee - PEN45
- Arequipa - Juanita Museum Admission Fee - PEN20
- Colca Canyon - La Calera hot springs - PEN15
- Cusco - Coricancha Temple (entrance fee) - PEN15
- Cusco - Pisco Making Urban Adventure (Based on 2 participants) - USD57
- Sacred Valley - Mountain Biking (Price Based on 2 Participants) - USD170
- Cusco - Full Day Stand Up Paddle Boarding (Based on 4 participants) - USD85
- Cusco - Full Day Via Ferrata & Zipline - USD95
- Cusco - Humantay Lake Hike (Based on 4 participants) - USD130
- Cusco - Cusco Cooking Class - USD70
- Cusco - Rainbow Mountain Hike (Based on 4 participants) - USD105
- Cusco - Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain Hike (Based on 4 paticipants) - USD100
- Cusco - Full Boleto Turistico Pass (access to 16 archaeological sites, transport & guides not included) - PEN135
- Cusco - Half Boleto Turistico Pass (access to selected archaeological sites, transport & guides not included) - PEN75
- Ollantaytambo - Archaeological site - PEN70
- Machu Picchu Site Museum - PEN25
- Cusco - 4 Ruins + Qorikancha (Price based on 4 participants) - USD40
- Lima - Archaeological Museum (entrance fee) - PEN15
- Lima - Museum of the Inquisition - Free
- Lima - Private Lima: Home Cooked Tour Urban Adventure (Based on 2 participants) - USD85
- Buenos Aires - Coastal train - USD10
- Buenos Aires - Tango show ticket prices from - USD120
- Buenos Aires - Football game (subject to availability) from - USD120
- Buenos Aires - Polo day - USD185
- Iguazu Falls - Zodiac ride up to the falls - USD90
- Iguazu Falls - Helicopter ride - USD130
- Iguazu Falls - Bird Park Entrance - BRL80
- Rio de Janeiro - Carnival rehearsal (June to Carnival only) from - BRL120
- Rio de Janeiro - Football Game (schedule dependent) from - BRL400
- Rio de Janeiro - Sugarloaf Mountain Cable Car (entrance) - BRL160
- Ilha Grande - Day trip - BRL390
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Is this trip right for you?
- This trip visits places that are at high altitude, and as a result some people can suffer from altitude sickness, regardless of age or physical health. Please see the Medical and health information section of the Essential Trip Information for more detail.
- This trip involves a lot of walking to see the sites, and if you trek the Inca Trail or Quarry Trail, there'll be strenuous hiking. The trip is recommended for those with a good level of fitness. Please bring comfortable footwear suitable to hiking. See the ‘Packing’ section of the Essential Trip Information for more detail.
- In many locations you'll have very basic accommodation. This includes the two homestays in rural Peru, the Amazon eco-lodge and camping along the Inca Trail or Quarry Trail (if you do either of these options). There'll be no power in these places, some won't have showers or hot water.
- Temperatures in the Amazon can fluctuate from daytime humidity to night-time chill. Insects, especially mosquitoes, are common. We recommend tropical-strength insect repellent and light cotton clothing that covers your arms and legs, with warmer layers for the evening.
- According to Machu Picchu visiting regulations all visitors to Machu Picchu must follow a pre-determined circuit within the site as a way to relieve crowding. The circuit-based entrance tickets are available on a first come first serve basis. We will do all that is possible to get everyone traveling in a group on the same route, but be aware that it is possible that members of the same group might be visiting Machu Picchu on a different circuit and not be together during this visit. Once the guided visit concludes, visitors must exit the site and personal exploration of Machu Picchu is not permitted.
- Travellers who choose different ways of reaching Machu Picchu (Inca Trail, Quarry Trail or Train), will not follow the same routes within Machu Picchu. This means that you may not be able to have photos together, overlooking Machu Picchu. This applies to travellers on the same booking or separate bookings.
- Can't decide which trek is for you? Read up on them here: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/adventures/inca-trail-vs-quarry-trail/
- This trip visits places that are at high altitude, and as a result some people can suffer from altitude sickness, regardless of age or physical health. Please see the Medical and health information section of the Essential Trip Information for more detail.
- This trip involves a lot of walking to see the sites, and if you trek the Inca Trail or Quarry Trail, there'll be strenuous hiking. The trip is recommended for those with a good level of fitness. Please bring comfortable footwear suitable to hiking. See the ‘Packing’ section of the Essential Trip Information for more detail.
- In many locations you'll have very basic accommodation. This includes the two homestays in rural Peru, the Amazon eco-lodge and camping along the Inca Trail or Quarry Trail (if you do either of these options). There'll be no power in these places, some won't have showers or hot water.
- Temperatures in the Amazon can fluctuate from daytime humidity to night-time chill. Insects, especially mosquitoes, are common. We recommend tropical-strength insect repellent and light cotton clothing that covers your arms and legs, with warmer layers for the evening.
- According to Machu Picchu visiting regulations all visitors to Machu Picchu must follow a pre-determined circuit within the site as a way to relieve crowding. The circuit-based entrance tickets are available on a first come first serve basis. We will do all that is possible to get everyone traveling in a group on the same route, but be aware that it is possible that members of the same group might be visiting Machu Picchu on a different circuit and not be together during this visit. Once the guided visit concludes, visitors must exit the site and personal exploration of Machu Picchu is not permitted.
- Travellers who choose different ways of reaching Machu Picchu (Inca Trail, Quarry Trail or Train), will not follow the same routes within Machu Picchu. This means that you may not be able to have photos together, overlooking Machu Picchu. This applies to travellers on the same booking or separate bookings.
- Can't decide which trek is for you? Read up on them here: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/adventures/inca-trail-vs-quarry-trail/
Dates and availability
Important notes
1. Full passport details are required at the time of booking. The passport you travel with must match the booking details provided to us. This will be used to apply for your Inca permit and if any info doesn’t match your passport, the Inca authorities will refuse your entry. Delays in providing this information may result in booking fees or changes to your itinerary.
2. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement excludes Day 4 (Overnight Bus), Day 8 (Homestay) and Days 17 & 18 (Jungle Lodge) where you will be in shared accommodation and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.
3. At the time of booking, please advise whether you would like to hike the classic Inca Trail, Inca Quarry Trail or take the train. When available, the Inca Trail will be booked as the default option. Fees may apply to changes made after the time of booking, and availability on other options cannot be guaranteed.
4. Inca Trail permits are sold on a request basis only. Once a deposit is paid and passport details are provided, Intrepid will endeavour to secure a permit for you. If Inca Trail permits are unavailable by the time you book, you can opt to hike the Quarry Trail instead https://www.intrepidtravel.com/peru/machu-picchu/quarry-trail or travel to Machu Picchu by train.
5. The 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 Quarry Trail.
6. As you can choose different ways of reaching Machu Picchu (Inca Trail, Quarry Trail or Train), you may be joined by other Intrepid and/or non-Intrepid travellers. There is also a small chance you may be the only traveller from your group on your selected option.
7. This trip includes a domestic flight. Argentina is particularly strict on excess baggage and usually enforces a maximum allowance of 15kg for check in luggage.
8. We recommend taking USD cash with you to Argentina and exchanging it to Argentinian pesos locally. While ATMs are widely available, there is a daily limit for withdrawals and the exchange rate fluctuates.
9. This trip includes a domestic flight within Argentina. The luggage allowance is 15kg for check in luggage. Should you wish to bring heavier luggage it is possible to increase your allowance by paying a fee at check in.
10.According to Machu Picchu visiting regulations all visitors to Machu Picchu must follow a pre-determined circuit within the site as a way to relieve crowding. The circuit-based entrance tickets are available on a first come first serve basis. For travellers who opted for the Quarry Trail and Train options we will do all that is possible to get everyone traveling in a group on the same circuit. Regardless of the circuit you will enjoy the beauty and grandeur of the site. Travellers completing the 4 day, 3 night Inca Trail will enter Machu Picchu via the Sun Gate with a guided tour of Machu Picchu taking place on circuit 5.
Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.
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