Day 1: Australia (or New Zealand) to Quito, Ecuador
Today, depart from Australia (or New Zealand) for Quito, Ecuador. Once you arrive, you will be welcomed by a tour representative and transferred to the hotel. Quito is the American continent’s largest and best-preserved colonial city, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978. Located on the equator in a valley at the foothills of the Pichincha Volcano, the city is considered the cultural capital of South America.
Meals: In-Flight
Accommodation: Sheraton Ecuador, Quito or similar
Day 2: Quito – Day at Leisure or Optional Tours
Today is free for you to explore at your own pace or join one of the optional tours.
Optional Tour: Quito Viewpoints Tour
Discover breathtaking cityscapes from multiple vantage points. Visit the Guapulo neighbourhood, offering views of the colonial church and Cayambe Volcano. Continue to El Panecillo to see the Virgin of Legarda monument, then finish in San Juan, another emblematic viewpoint. End the experience with a tasting of traditional quesadillas.
Optional Tour: Quito City Tour
Explore Quito’s historic heart. Walk through its narrow streets to the Golden Church, San Francisco Square, and the Main Square. Visit a traditional candy maker at Cruz Verde and enjoy lunch with locals. End your tour with a stroll down colourful Ronda Street and try a giant empanada, followed by panoramic views from Panecillo Hill.
Please note: Both tours may be booked. If so, the city tour will be in the morning and the viewpoints tour in the afternoon.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Sheraton Ecuador, Quito or similar
Day 3: Quito – Baltra – Santa Cruz (Galapagos Islands)
Transfer to the airport for your flight to Baltra Island in the Galapagos. On arrival, travel by ferry across the Itabaca Channel to Santa Cruz Island. Your first stop is the lush highlands of Santa Cruz, home to the iconic giant Galapagos tortoises. Visit a private ranch for lunch, followed by a nature walk to spot tortoises and explore lava tubes—natural tunnels formed by ancient lava flows. Later, check into your hotel and meet your local guide who will brief you on the next day’s itinerary.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel Fiesta or similar, Santa Cruz, Galapagos
Day 4: Academy Bay & Tortuga Bay Tour
After breakfast, enjoy a tour of Academy Bay. Bring sun protection, a swimsuit, towel, camera, and comfortable walking shoes. Optional snorkelling equipment is provided.
Swim and snorkel with sea lions and tropical fish. Spot blue-footed boobies, climb to a viewpoint to see white-tipped reef sharks, and walk to Playa de los Perros (Dogs’ Beach), home to marine iguanas and dramatic coastal scenery. In the afternoon, head to Tortuga Bay Beach, a pristine stretch of white sand named for the sea turtles that nest there. Relax or enjoy a walk along the beautiful shoreline with views of marine iguanas and crystal-clear waters.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel Fiesta or similar, Santa Cruz, Galapagos
Day 5: Charles Darwin Research Station – San Cristobal Island
This morning, visit the Charles Darwin Research Station, where you’ll learn about endemic species and ongoing conservation efforts in the Galapagos. In the afternoon, take a 2-hour boat ride to San Cristobal Island. Upon arrival at Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, you’ll be transferred to your hotel and greeted by a local guide who will explain the upcoming itinerary. Enjoy the evening at leisure.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Blue Marlin Hotel or similar, San Cristobal, Galapagos
Day 6: Isla Lobos Tour
After breakfast, transfer to the dock for a short boat ride to Isla Lobos, where you will witness abundant sea life en route. Upon arrival, enjoy a guided nature tour where you can observe frigate birds, blue-footed boobies, and sea lions. Afterwards, enjoy swimming or snorkelling in the pristine waters. Continue to a nearby white coral beach on San Cristobal for a packed lunch and leisure time. Relax, swim, or explore the coast before returning to Puerto Baquerizo Moreno.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Blue Marlin Hotel or similar, San Cristobal, Galapagos
Day 7: San Cristobal – Quito
Enjoy some free time this morning before transferring to San Cristobal Airport for your return flight to Quito. Upon arrival, you will be greeted and transferred to your hotel.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Sheraton Ecuador, Quito or similar
Day 8: Quito, Ecuador – Lima, Peru
Today, at the appropriate time, transfer to the airport for your flight to Lima, Peru. Upon arrival, a tour representative will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel.
Lima, known as “The City of Kings,” is a cultural and culinary hub that blends ancient archaeology, colonial grandeur, and modern sophistication. From world-class restaurants to UNESCO-listed architecture, Lima is a true gateway to Peru’s rich history and heritage.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel Jose Antonio Executive or similar
Day 9: Lima – City Tour
This morning, embark on a half-day city tour of Lima. Begin at Huaca Pucllana, a pre-Incan archaeological site in the Miraflores district. This ceremonial pyramid dates back to 200–700 AD and offers a fascinating look at Lima’s ancient past. Continue to Lima’s historic centre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explore the Plaza de Armas, surrounded by colonial-era buildings. Visit the Lima Cathedral, completed in 1649, and view its sculptures and 14 chapels. Then, walk to the Santo Domingo Convent, an architectural gem founded in the 1530s, home to one of Lima’s most prominent bell towers. Return to the hotel and enjoy the rest of the afternoon at leisure. Consider heading to the Miraflores Viewpoint to watch a spectacular sunset over the Pacific Ocean.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel Jose Antonio Executive or similar
Day 10: Lima – Puerto Maldonado – Amazon Jungle
Transfer to the airport for your flight to Puerto Maldonado, the gateway to the Peruvian Amazon. Upon arrival, meet your specialised Amazon tour leader and transfer to your lodge.
Note: Due to boat capacity, only small bags with essentials are permitted. Larger luggage will be securely stored in the lodge’s Puerto Maldonado office at no cost.
Board your riverboat and sail across the Río Bajo Madre de Dios to your jungle lodge, watching for capybaras, caimans, herons, and more along the way. Upon arrival, enjoy a welcome drink and lunch in the rustic dining room. In the afternoon, take a guided walk to Caiman Cocha, a small lagoon home to black caimans and common caimans, apex predators of the Amazon. Return to the lodge for dinner and relaxation in the jungle bar or game room.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: EcoAmazonia Lodge or similar
Day 11: Amazon Jungle Exploration
After breakfast, set out on a guided hike through Amazonian forest trails. Journey across rivers and into high-elevation and floodplain forests, where you’ll witness diverse flora and fauna.
Arrive at Lake Apu Victor, a majestic body of water surrounded by swamplands and towering trees. Climb the observation deck for panoramic views and the chance to see parrots, macaws, hoatzins, herons, caimans, turtles, and potentially the elusive giant river otter.
Return to the lodge for lunch, then in the afternoon visit Monkey Island, home to species such as the black spider monkey, squirrel monkey, capuchins, and other mammals like coatis and tropical birds. As the sun sets, soak in the breathtaking dusk views before returning to the lodge for dinner.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: EcoAmazonia Lodge or similar
Day 12: Amazon Jungle – Puerto Maldonado – Cusco
Wake up to the sounds of the Amazon and enjoy a final breakfast at the lodge. Afterwards, transfer by boat and vehicle to Puerto Maldonado Airport for your flight to Cusco. Upon arrival, you will be met by a tour representative and transferred to your hotel. Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure to acclimatise to the altitude and explore the beautiful surroundings.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel Jose Antonio Cusco or similar
Day 13: Cusco – City Tour
Begin your day in Cusco, the former capital of the Inca Empire and one of the most fascinating cities in South America. Located at 3,399 metres above sea level, Cusco is a rich blend of Inca and colonial architecture. Today’s half-day guided tour includes several significant landmarks. Visit the Koricancha (Qorikancha), once the most sacred site in the Inca Empire, known for its gold-covered walls and detailed stonework. Continue to the Cathedral of Cusco in the Plaza de Armas, which was built over an ancient Inca temple and houses magnificent artwork and religious relics.
Next, travel to the Sacsayhuaman fortress, famous for its massive, precisely cut stones. Then, explore the Qenqo Archaeological Complex, an Inca ceremonial site with carved stones and underground passages, and finish with a visit to Tambomachay, possibly an Inca spa or ritual bathing site.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel Jose Antonio Cusco or similar
Day 14: Cusco – Day at Leisure or Optional Activities
Today is yours to enjoy at leisure in Cusco, the oldest continuously inhabited city in the Americas and the archaeological capital of the continent.
Alternatively, join one of the following optional activities:
Optional Activity: Maras & Moray
Depart at 09:00 for a scenic drive through the Andes to the Inca agricultural terraces of Moray, believed to be an agricultural laboratory. Then continue to Maras, where over 3,000 ancient salt ponds are still harvested by hand. Return to Cusco in the afternoon.
Optional Activity: Rainbow Mountain Trek
For active travellers, begin early (between 05:30–06:00) and drive to the trailhead near Cusipata. Hike approximately 1.5 hours to Rainbow Mountain, taking in dramatic views of Nevado Ausangate, the Red Valley, and local wildlife. Return to Cusco by 18:00.
Optional Activity: Folklore Dinner & Show
At 19:00, enjoy a buffet dinner of traditional Peruvian dishes near Plaza de Armas, accompanied by a live Andean folk dance and music performance. Guests may join the dancers on stage for a cultural celebration.
Please note: Only one daytime optional activity (Maras & Moray or Rainbow Mountain) can be chosen due to time constraints.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel Jose Antonio Cusco or similar
Day 15: Sacred Valley of the Incas
Today, travel through the Sacred Valley of the Incas, beginning with a visit to the village of Chinchero, where you will meet local families who maintain traditional weaving techniques passed down for generations.
Engage in a live demonstration as artisans show how they shear, spin, dye, and weave alpaca wool into colourful textiles. Learn about the natural dyes, local symbolism, and Quechua heritage that underpin their craftsmanship.
After this immersive cultural encounter, continue your scenic journey deeper into the valley and check into your hotel.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: San Agustin Monasterio de la Recoleta or similar
Day 16: Pisac – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes
After checking out this morning, prepare a small overnight backpack for the journey to Aguas Calientes, as large suitcases are not permitted on the train. Your main luggage will be securely transferred to your hotel in Cusco.
Begin the day with a visit to the village of Pisac, famous for its colourful traditional market. Explore artisan stalls before heading to the Pisac archaeological site, featuring terraces, temples, and panoramic valley views.
Stop for lunch in Urubamba (not included), then continue to Ollantaytambo, an impressive Inca site and functioning town. Visit the Temple of the Sun, explore its vast terraces, and admire Inca water systems still in use today.
In the afternoon, board the Peru Expedition train for a scenic ride to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo), nestled in a deep gorge at the base of Machu Picchu. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of this pedestrian-friendly town, explore markets, or soak in the natural hot springs (not included).
Optional Supplement – Express Inca Trail Trek
Depart around 06:00 for a train ride to Kilometre 104, where you’ll begin a 6–8 hour hike to Machu Picchu via Wiñay Wayna and Inti Punku (Sun Gate). Includes lunch and guided support. A moderate to high fitness level is required.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hatun Inti Boutique Machupicchu or similar
Day 17: Machu Picchu – Cusco
Start early at approximately 05:40 with a transfer to the bus that will take you to the entrance of Machu Picchu. Enjoy a guided two-hour tour of the ancient citadel, including the Temple of the Sun, Sacred Plaza, and Intihuatana.
After your visit, return by bus to Aguas Calientes. Enjoy lunch at leisure (not included), then board the train back to Poroy, where you will be met and transferred to your hotel in Cusco, arriving around 19:00.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel Jose Antonio Cusco or similar
Day 18: Cusco – Puno
After breakfast, transfer to the station for a scenic bus journey to Puno with multiple cultural stops:
Andahuaylillas: “The Sistine Chapel of South America,” featuring exquisite religious art.
Raqchi: Monumental Inca temple to Wiracocha.
La Raya: The highest point between Cusco and Puno; stop in Sicuani for a buffet lunch.
Pukara: An ancient Altiplano ceremonial centre.
Arrive in Puno around 17:00 and transfer to your hotel for a relaxed evening after the full-day journey.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel Jose Antonio Puno or similar
Day 19: Lake Titicaca – Uros Islands
Depart at approximately 07:00 for a boat tour to Taquile Island, where you’ll meet master weavers of this ancient Andean community and learn about their textile traditions.
Continue to Luquina on the Chucuito Peninsula for lunch at a local restaurant and interaction with the Aymara culture. On the return journey, stop at the floating Uros Islands, built entirely of totora reeds, and visit a family to gain insight into their unique lifestyle.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel Jose Antonio Puno or similar
Day 20: Puno – Lima
After breakfast, transfer to Juliaca Airport for your flight to Lima. Upon arrival, be met and transferred to your hotel. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure in the capital city.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel Jose Antonio Lima or similar
Day 21: Lima, Peru – Buenos Aires, Argentina
At the appropriate time, transfer to the airport in Lima for your flight to Buenos Aires, Argentina. Upon arrival, you will be met by a tour representative and transferred to your centrally located hotel. Buenos Aires—meaning “good airs”—is a vibrant cultural hub and one of Latin America’s most important capitals. The hotel’s central location allows convenient access to dining, entertainment, and iconic attractions.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Libertador Hotel or similar
Day 22: Buenos Aires – City Tour & Tango Show
After breakfast, embark on a city tour of Buenos Aires, starting at the historic Plaza de Mayo, surrounded by iconic buildings including La Casa Rosada, the Cabildo, and the Metropolitan Cathedral, where José de San Martín is entombed. Visit the San Telmo district, known for its colonial charm and antique shops, and the colourful La Boca neighbourhood, famous for its tango heritage and Caminito Street. Continue to the Recoleta Cemetery, a stunning labyrinth of mausoleums, where you’ll visit Evita Perón’s grave.
In the evening (between 19:30–20:00), transfer to Aljibe Tango in San Telmo for a three-course dinner and live tango show. Enjoy traditional dishes with wine or soft drinks while watching orchestras, dancers, and singers bring Argentina’s cultural traditions to life. Return to your hotel after the performance.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Libertador Hotel or similar
Day 23: Buenos Aires – Day at Leisure or Optional Gaucho Ranch Tour
Spend the day at leisure exploring Buenos Aires or join the following optional activity:
Optional Activity: Gaucho Full-Day Experience at a Traditional Ranch
Travel approximately 1.5 hours from the city to a traditional ranch for a cultural immersion. Enjoy horseback riding or a sulky ride, taste homemade empanadas, and savour a traditional Argentine BBQ lunch. The day includes live folk music, local art, and gaucho demonstrations such as horse whispering and herd management, offering a rich insight into Argentina’s rural traditions.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Libertador Hotel or similar
Day 24: Buenos Aires – Iguazu Falls
Transfer to the airport for your flight to Puerto Iguazu, the Argentinian gateway to Iguazu Falls. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.
Located at the triple border between Argentina, Paraguay, and Brazil, Iguazu Falls consists of 275 cascades, with the tallest—Garganta del Diablo (Devil’s Throat)—towering at 80 metres.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: El Pueblito Theme Hotel, Iguazu or similar
Day 25: Iguazu Falls – Argentinian Side
Today, join your guide for a full-day tour of the Argentinian side of Iguazu National Park. Walk along elevated trails through the jungle, stopping at key viewpoints of the spectacular falls. Enjoy lunch (not included) in the park or bring a packed lunch to enjoy outdoors.
Optional Activity: The Great Adventure Tour
(Approx. USD $100 – bookable on tour only)
This add-on combines a jungle ride and motorboat journey through the Iguazu River Canyon, including views of Tres Mosqueteros, San Martin Island, and a thrilling encounter near the San Martin waterfall.
Please Note:
This optional tour occurs during the main group visit and is not suitable for:
- Children under 12
- Pregnant women
- Individuals with spinal, heart, respiratory, or neurological conditions
- Individuals with disabilities affecting response in an emergency
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: El Pueblito Theme Hotel, Iguazu or similar
Day 26: Iguazu Falls (Brazilian Side) – Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
This morning, transfer from your hotel across the border to the Brazilian side of Iguazu Falls for a half-day guided tour. Discover spectacular views of the Iguazu River Canyon, Salto Rivadavia, Three Musketeers, and the Devil’s Throat, all enhanced by the mist and frequent rainbows. Enjoy lunch at one of the park’s restaurants (not included), then transfer to Foz do Iguaçu Airport for your flight to Rio de Janeiro. Upon arrival, meet your representative and transfer to the hotel.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Windsor Plaza Hotel, Rio de Janeiro or similar
Day 27: Christ the Redeemer & Selarón Steps
After breakfast, depart for a guided visit to the iconic Christ the Redeemer, standing 30 metres tall atop Mount Corcovado at 700 metres above Rio. This Art Deco masterpiece and symbol of Brazil was named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007. Continue to the famous Escadaria Selarón (Selarón Steps), a vibrant mosaic staircase created by Chilean-born artist Jorge Selarón. Stretching 125 metres and decorated with colourful tiles from around the world, the steps are an iconic expression of artistic devotion and local pride.
Return to the hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Windsor Plaza Hotel, Rio de Janeiro or similar
Day 28: Rio de Janeiro – Day at Leisure or Optional Tour
Today is yours to enjoy Rio de Janeiro at your own pace. Relax at the beach, stroll along Copacabana, or explore local cuisine and markets.
Optional Activity: City Tour & Sugar Loaf Mountain Half-Day Tour
Explore downtown Rio, including the Metropolitan Cathedral, followed by a cable car ride to Sugar Loaf Mountain via Urca Hill. Enjoy panoramic views of Guanabara Bay, Rio’s beaches, and surrounding landscapes. (Tour approx. 4 hours; lunch not included.)
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Windsor Plaza Hotel, Rio de Janeiro or similar
Day 29: Rio de Janeiro – Return to Australia (or New Zealand)
After breakfast, at the appropriate time, transfer to the airport for your international return flight to Australia (or New Zealand), concluding your three-week journey through South America’s iconic wonders.
Meals: Breakfast, In-Flight
Accommodation: N/A
Day 30: In Transit
Relax in flight and reflect on the incredible experiences, unforgettable landscapes, and vibrant cultures encountered during your South American adventure.
Meals: N/A
Accommodation: N/A
Day 31: Arrive in Australia (or New Zealand)
Upon arrival in Australia (or New Zealand), make your own onward travel arrangements.
Meals: N/A
Accommodation: N/A
