South American Highlights: Brazil, Argentina & Peru Upgrade
Say "hola" and "olá" to adventure
South American gems, Brazil, Argentina, and Peru are all filled with ancient history and exuberant city life. This vacation will introduce you to all three in one trip. Eat, dance, hike, and tour from Rio de Janeiro to Cusco in two unforgettable weeks. See it all on guided tours, then rest up on your included transfers so you can do it over and over again! This upgrade gets you added tours in Peru!
What's Included
- Round-trip economy class airfare into Rio de Janeiro (GIG), out of Cusco (CUZ)
- All airport transfers
- 3 nights in Rio de Janeiro at PortoBay Rio Internacional, or similar
- Full-day Corcovado & Sugar Loaf Tour
- One-way, economy class flight from Rio de Janeiro (GIG) to Foz do Iguacu International Airport (IGU)
- 2 nights in Foz do Iguacu at the Hotel Recanto Cataratas, or similar
- Brazilian Falls Tour (2.5 hours)
- Argentinian Falls Tour (6 hours)
- One-way, economy class flight from Cataratas del Iguazu Intl. Apt (IGR) to Aeroparque Jorge Newbery Apt (AEP)
- 3 nights in Buenos Aires at the Hotel Lennox, or similar
- Buenos Aires City Tour (3.5 hours)
- Dinner & Tango Show at El Aljibe, including hotel transfer (2 hours)
- One-way economy class flight from Buenos Aires (EZE) to Lima (LIM)
- 3 nights in Lima at the Hotel Britania Miraflores, or similar
- One-way economy class flight from Lima (LIM) to Cusco (CUZ)
- 2 nights in Cusco at the Xima Cusco Hotel, or similar
- Buffet breakfast daily
Plus!
- Half-day Gastronomy Tour with lunch in Lima
- Full-day Lima city tour with lunch and Larco Museum
- Private full-day tour of Machu Picchu Tour with roundtrip transportation from Cusco
*Please note: City Tourist Tax is not included and you will be required to pay in destination. City taxes are typically $1.00 USD per person per night
Great Ways to Explore
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Enjoy a city tour of the best neighborhoods in Buenos Aires: San Telmo, Palermo, Recoleta and La Boca.
- Visit two of Rio's iconic sites in one tour: Corcovado (home to Christ the Redeemer) and Sugarloaf Mountain.
-
Delve into the mysteries of Peru in Lima and Cusco.
-
Witness the passion and romance of a traditional tango dance in Buenos Aires. For a true taste of the city, eat at a parrilla (Argentine steakhouse).
-
Enjoy a city tour of the best neighborhoods in Buenos Aires: San Telmo, Palermo, Recoleta and La Boca.
Put your Spanish and Portuguese skills to the test in South America!
This trip kicks off in Brazil. Your first stop is Rio, home to the world's bluest sky! Tour the local must-sees like Corcovado and Sugar Loaf before jetting off to the wondrous world of waterfalls, Foz do Iguacu. Splash through the Brazilian Falls, then cross the border to get at look at the gorgeous Argentinian Falls.
What's new, Buenos Aires?! You'll learn the answer to that, plus get a look into the city's history on a tour of Buenos Aires. While you're there, enjoy some delicious food and a heart-pounding tango show.
Next, it's Peru or bust! Spend a few nights getting to know Lima, then wrap up your trip in the history-packed capital of the Inca Empire.
Whether you're here for the culture, food, views, or all of the above, South America won't let you down!
Helpful links for travel to Brazil:
Helpful links for travel to Argentina:
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
- Round-trip economy class airfare into Rio de Janeiro (GIG), out of Cusco (CUZ)
- All airport transfers
- 3 nights in Rio de Janeiro at PortoBay Rio Internacional, or similar
- Full-day Corcovado & Sugar Loaf Tour
- One-way, economy class flight from Rio de Janeiro (GIG) to Foz do Iguacu International Airport (IGU)
- 2 nights in Foz do Iguacu at the Hotel Recanto Cataratas, or similar
- Brazilian Falls Tour (2.5 hours)
- Argentinian Falls Tour (6 hours)
- One-way, economy class flight from Cataratas del Iguazu Intl. Apt (IGR) to Aeroparque Jorge Newbery Apt (AEP)
- 3 nights in Buenos Aires at the Hotel Lennox, or similar
- Buenos Aires City Tour (3.5 hours)
- Dinner & Tango Show at El Aljibe, including hotel transfer (2 hours)
- One-way economy class flight from Buenos Aires (EZE) to Lima (LIM)
- 3 nights in Lima at the Hotel Britania Miraflores, or similar
- One-way economy class flight from Lima (LIM) to Cusco (CUZ)
- 2 nights in Cusco at the Xima Cusco Hotel, or similar
- Buffet breakfast daily
Plus!
- Half-day Gastronomy Tour with lunch in Lima
- Full-day Lima city tour with lunch and Larco Museum
- Private full-day tour of Machu Picchu Tour with roundtrip transportation from Cusco
*Please note: City Tourist Tax is not included and you will be required to pay in destination. City taxes are typically $1.00 USD per person per night
-
Enjoy a city tour of the best neighborhoods in Buenos Aires: San Telmo, Palermo, Recoleta and La Boca.
- Visit two of Rio's iconic sites in one tour: Corcovado (home to Christ the Redeemer) and Sugarloaf Mountain.
-
Delve into the mysteries of Peru in Lima and Cusco.
-
Witness the passion and romance of a traditional tango dance in Buenos Aires. For a true taste of the city, eat at a parrilla (Argentine steakhouse).
-
Enjoy a city tour of the best neighborhoods in Buenos Aires: San Telmo, Palermo, Recoleta and La Boca.
Put your Spanish and Portuguese skills to the test in South America!
This trip kicks off in Brazil. Your first stop is Rio, home to the world's bluest sky! Tour the local must-sees like Corcovado and Sugar Loaf before jetting off to the wondrous world of waterfalls, Foz do Iguacu. Splash through the Brazilian Falls, then cross the border to get at look at the gorgeous Argentinian Falls.
What's new, Buenos Aires?! You'll learn the answer to that, plus get a look into the city's history on a tour of Buenos Aires. While you're there, enjoy some delicious food and a heart-pounding tango show.
Next, it's Peru or bust! Spend a few nights getting to know Lima, then wrap up your trip in the history-packed capital of the Inca Empire.
Whether you're here for the culture, food, views, or all of the above, South America won't let you down!
Helpful links for travel to Brazil:
Helpful links for travel to Argentina:
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
Departure Airport:
Departure Month:
Prices From:
Day 1. Welcome to Rio de Janeiro!
Say "ola" to Rio! Arrive at Galeao International Airport then enjoy a transfer to your accommodation. Ease your way into this sprawling city with a stroll through the historic center filled with architectural gems. The Theatro Municipal, built in 1909, was modeled after the Opera Garnier in Paris!
Transfer to Rio de Janeiro hotel
Check-in - PortoBay Rio Internacional
Located on Copacabana beach in Rio de Janeiro, PortoBay Rio Internacional combines the best of both worlds - the vibrant city and the beach right at your feet. You'll have exclusive beach access as well as top notch facilities when you stay at this modern and chic hotel.
Wake up to the sounds of waves crashing from the 117 rooms offering private verandas or panoramic window views overlooking Copacabana. Savor Brazil on a plate at La Finestra restaurant, sip a negroni at Negroni Bar and enjoy a light snack at Bossa Lounge. Take a dip at the hotel's rooftop pool on the 20th floor, which offers a spectacular panoramic view of the famous bay and major sights of Rio de Janeiro, with Copacabana beach in the foreground and Christ the Redeemer in the background. Additional amenities include a massage room, two saunas, fitness center and pool bar.
Day 2. Rio de Janeiro
Today you will embark on a full-day tour of Corcovado and Sugarloaf Mountains! Both of these imposing mountains make up the iconic skyline of Rio, and you will enjoy unparalleled views from the summits. On this tour, you will also visit downtown Rio's architectural gems.
Tour to Corcovado & Sugarloaf Mountain (full-day)
Tour the famous Corcovado and Sugarloaf Mountains! Drive through Tijuca Forest and up to the 2,329 ft high Corcovado Mountain. At the top of Corcovado, proceed up the steps that lead to the peak´s lookout, where the towering statue of Christ the Redeemer stands.
The tour continues through Rio’s world-famous beaches to board a cable car for a two-staged ascent up Sugarloaf Mountain. After admiring the views, descend the mountain and proceed along Guanabara Bay and Flamengo Park. Visit downtown Rio, passing by the financial and business center and other attractions like Candelaria Church, Saint Sebastian Cathedral, Lapa Arches, Municipal Theater, National Library, Fine Arts Museum and the Sambodrome - site of Rio’s famous Carnival parade.
Day 3. Rio de Janeiro
Rio is perhaps most famous for its beach life, and two beaches in particular: Copacabana and Ipanema. Rio residents (known as cariocas) can be seen playing soccer, sunbathing, and swimming all along the 2.5-mile stretch of Copacabana Beach. Among its trademarks is the Atlântica Avenue boardwalk, with mosaic waves of stones designed by landscape architect Burle Marx.
More upscale than Copacabana, the area around Ipanema Beach is considered the “little Paris” of Rio for its avant-garde galleries, bookstores and movie theaters.
Day 4. Rio de Janeiro - Foz do Iguacu
Say goodbye to Rio as you transfer to the airport for your flight to Iguassu Falls. Located close to the point where the Iguassu River empties its waters into the Parana River, Iguassu Falls is the world’s widest waterfall and natural wonder.
On the border of Brazil and Argentina, the city of Foz do Iguassu is a busy town thanks to the many visitors that come to see the falls and Brazilian shoppers who come to purchase imported goods in Ciudad Del Este, the Paraguayan tax-free city right across the border.
Transfer to Rio de Janeiro airport (GIG)
Fly to Foz do Iguacu!
Transfer to Foz de Iguacu hotel
Situated near Iguassu Falls, a 7th Wonder of the World, Recanto Cataratas Thermas Resort combines innovative architecture with the natural beauty of its surroundings. The resort is also close to Bosque Guarani zoo and Iguassu Falls International Airport. The resort offers a dizzying array of amenities suitable for the whole family. There is an aquatic park, thermal pool equipped with a poolside bar, indoor thermal pool, two restaurants, amusement square, London-style pub, and bowling alley, disco club, game rooms, library, spa, Each of the modern and comfortable 300 rooms feature free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs and minibars.
Iguassu Falls Tour (Brazilian Side) (3.5 hours)
Cross Iguassu National Park to the Brazilian side of these extraordinary Falls, then walk along cascading paths and make your way to the bottom of Devil's Throat. Enjoy breathtaking views of this spectacular natural wonder! At the end of the tour, hop in an elevator and ride up to road-level.
Please note it is your responsibility to obtain the appropriate visa for entry into Brazil.
Day 5. Foz do Iguacu
Today, enjoy a tour of Iguassu Falls on the Argentinian side. Made up of a system of 275 waterfalls, Iguassu Falls is nearly twice as tall as Niagara Falls and rivaled only by Zimbabwe's Victoria Falls.
Argentinian Falls Tour (7.5 hours)
Cross the Tancredo Neves bridge over the Iguaçu River, which forms the border between Argentina and Brazil. Once in Argentina, the tour takes a scenic highway up the Argentinian Iguazu National Park. You will have ample time to visit the Argentinian falls as you stop at the Visitors Center and proceed to the Superior Circuit (up-river cascades), to the Inferior Circuit (down-river falls). Then take the Ecological Jungle Train to the most impressive observation point of the falls - The Devil´s Throat!
Day 6. Foz do Iguacu - Buenos Aires
Say goodbye to Brazil as you transfer to your next and last destination: Buenos Aires, Argentina!
The capital is the center of the political, economic, and intellectual life in Argentina. Buenos Aires has a strong European influence which is reflected by its refined taste in cooking, its luxury boutiques and in the elegance of its inhabitants. Despite modern developments, Buenos Aires has managed to preserve old traditions and charming neighborhoods.
Check into your hotel and get settled, then celebrate your first night in Argentina with steak and wine at a parrilla, a traditional steakhouse.
Transfer to Foz do Iguassu airport (IGR)
Fly to Buenos Aires!
Transfer to Buenos Aires hotel
Check-in - Hotel Lennox
Sip on your favorite cocktail while relaxing at this urban chic hotel in Buenos Aires. The Hotel Lennox offers a luxurious atmosphere in all areas, from its on-site restaurant, its luxe lounge, its swanky bar, and open air terrace, to its chic conference rooms and elegant guest rooms. The hotel also features a spa, including 2 outdoor hot tubs, a sauna, and a fitness center. Enjoy daily breakfast buffets. the convenience of a 24-hour desk, and help with arranging airport shuttles.
The rooms feature large windows and are accompanied by individual heating and air conditioning, digital scales, spacious dining areas, iPod docking stations, minibars, LCD TVs, and kitchenettes with kitchenware. Wi-Fi is free throughout the premises, and on-site parking is available for a small fee. With the 9 de Julio Avenue only 650 feet away, the Corrientes Avenue only a thusand feet away, the National Congress Palace under a half mile, and the Ezeiza Airport 20 miles away, this hotel is in an excellent location in the heart of Buenos Aires.
Day 7. Buenos Aires
Wake up to bustling Buenos Aires and enjoy a 3.5-hour tour of the city's most famous landmarks and neighborhoods: Avendia de Mayo, Palermo, Recoleta, and Recoleta cemetery.
Your day ends with dinner and a tango show. Added to UNESCO’s list of the world’s intangible cultural treasures, tango is a fiery, passion-fueled dance that seduces even the most casual viewers!
Buenos Aires City Tour (4 hours)
Your city tour of Buenos Aires starts at the famous 9 de Julio Avenue, known as the widest avenue in the world! Pass by the beautiful Colon Theater, the cultural pride of Buenos Aires, and arrive at the main square Plaza de Mayo, which is surrounded by Casa Rosada (Government House), Metropolitan Cathedral and the Cabildo (first City Hall). Visit the inside of the Metropolitan Cathedral, which holds the remains of General José de San Martín (Argentina's national hero).
Your next stop is La Boca, a colorful neighborhood of painted houses with the famous "Caminito" street.
The tour ends in the city's northern districts. Drive to the green neighborhood of Palermo with its parks and artificial lakes. Then, visit Recoleta with its elegant boutiques and restaurants. At the famous Recoleta cemetery, you will find the grave of Eva Duarte, known as Eva Perón (Evita). The mausoleums and pantheons reflect the architectural diversity from Argentina's different cultures.
Dinner & Tango Show at El Aljibe, including hotel transfer (2 hours)
Enjoy dinner and a show, Argentina style! Located in the same complex as La Ventana Tango House, one of the most traditional tango houses in Buenos Aires, Albije Tango is a new tango option offering guests an authentic experience. Savor a delicious three-course dinner including wine before the tango show begins.
Once dinner is over, watch musicians, dancers, and singers perform a tango and Folklore show that will undoubtedly be unforgettable. The show lasts for one hour and also includes a show of boleadoras.Day 8. Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires could rival Paris in terms of its art scene. The National Museum of Fine Arts, Latin American Art Museum of Buenos Aires (MALBA) and Tigre Art Museum are the most renowned museums to peruse some of Latin America’s finest art.
If art isn't your preferred choice, head to Buenos Aires Japanese Gardens, one of the largest Japanese gardens outside Japan. This green oasis is the ideal place to escape the hustle and bustle of Buenos Aires.
In the evening, head for a stroll along Puente de la Mujer (Woman's Bridge) in the Puerto Madero neighborhood. Then head out for a night of dining and tango!
Day 9. Buenos Aires - Lima
Welcome to Peru! Enjoy a transfer to your hotel and get settled. Tonight, dinner will be on your own. Rest up - there's still so much exploring to do!
Transfer to Buenos Aires Airport (EZE)
Fly to Lima!
Transfer to Lima hotel
Check-in - Hotel Britania Miraflores
Located just 30 minutes from Lima International Airport and 20 minutes to the historical city center, this Miraflores hotel makes the perfect base for your Peru adventure. Explore the neighborhood of Miraflores, just three blocks from the Kennedy Park, where cultural activities and daily crafts fairs are held.
From your cozy and spacious room, enjoy free Wi-Fi, slippers, and LCD TV. Fuel up with a hearty breakfast buffet every morning and return in the evening for a taste of Peruvian specialties at K'ara restaurant.
Day 10. Lima
Dive into the tantalizing offerings of Peruvian cuisine today on a gastronomic tour with lunch. After, the rest of the day is yours to spend however you'd like.
Gastronomy Tour with lunch in Lima
Peruvian cuisine is currently enjoying a period of international recognition, having been named as the ‘gastronomic capital of the world’ across numerous publications and travel networks, making this tour all the more alluring. On arrival at the restaurant, you will be shown the secrets to preparing some of Peru’s classic dishes with a modern twist, such as ceviche and pisco sours, before indulging in a delectable gourmet lunch, while overlooking the Pacific Ocean. This experience includes a trip to one of the many local produce markets to see first-hand the array of ingredients which go into such fine dining, before being awarded with your very own chef’s apron, to keep as a souvenir in your own kitchen back home!
Day 11. Lima
Set off on a full-day tour of the city. See the city from below and above, present and past, as you explore catacombs, visit San Isidro, ride along the coast of Miraflores, and dive into history.
Lima city tour with lunch and Larco Museum (full-day)
The tour will begin with an exploration of Colonial Lima. First, you will stop off at the Main Square, where you will get a chance to explore the square on foot and admire the exteriors of the Government Palace, the Cathedral of Lima, and the City Hall all examples of Lima's still-present colonial architectural opulence.
You will visit the San Francisco Convent built in the 17th century, and its “Catacombs” ancient underground cemetery of Lima. You will leave behind Lima's Historic Center and begin a journey through the streets of modern Lima as head toward the most traditional of the residential zones of the capital: San Isidro and Miraflores. In San Isidro, you will pass through the heart of the city's financial district; soon afterward, you will travel to the district of Miraflores, a perfect spot to enjoy wonderful views of the Pacific Ocean. Afterward, you will head to the Pueblo Libre District and visit the Larco Museum, an eighteenth-century Viceregal mansion that houses more than 3,000 years of Peru's pre-Columbian history. The museum boasts a supremely fine collection of gold and silver jewelry and worship paraphernalia that demonstrates the superb skill of ancient Peruvian gold and silversmiths. The Larco Museum also contains a famous collection of erotic ceramic tomb art that gives insights into various aspects of pre-Columbian rituals on fertility and the afterlife.Day 12. Lima - Cusco
After breakfast, enjoy a private transfer to the airport. Once you've landed in Cusco, you'll be transferred to your next hotel for check-in. Lunch and dinner will be on your own.
Transfer to Lima airport (LIM)
Fly to Cusco!
Transfer to Cusco hotel
Check-in - Xima Exclusive Cusco
Stay in the heart of Cusco at the Xima Exclusive Hotel. A short distance from Korikancha Temple and less than a 15-minute walk to Plaza de Armas, this hotel is well-located to see the best of this historic city. The 167 non-smoking guest rooms feature amenities like free Wi-Fi, smart TV's, coffee stations and mini bars to ensure you have a comfortable stay. Start your day with a buffet breakfast; upon your return to the hotel in the evening you might want to have dinner at the Ayara Restaurant featuring native and organic ingredients, indulge in a cocktail at Kusiy Bar or perhaps relax at the Inca Spa Novaskin.
Day 13. Cusco
Start the day with a tour of the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu. Spend the rest of the day at leisure.
Full-day tour of Machu Picchu with round-trip transportation from Cusco
Visit the Santuario Histórico de Machu Picchu (Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu). Aboard a comfortable train, you will depart for the Aguas Calientes train Station, enjoying a spectacular view along the way. Upon arrival, you will board a bus that will take you to the entrance gate of the Machu Picchu citadel.
Rediscovered by Hiram Bingham more than a century ago, Machu Picchu is considered one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Its architectural beauty, spectacular natural landscapes, and the energy held in its enigmatic structures will take your breath away.
Day 14. Depart Peru
Your South American adventure comes to an end today. At the appropriate time, you'll be transferred to the Cusco airport for your flight home.