South America Discovery
South America Discovery
South America Discovery
14 Days Starting in Rio De Janeiro, Brazil and ending in Cuzco, Peru
Visiting: Rio de Janeiro, Iguassu Falls, Buenos Aires, Lima, Cusco, Machu Picchu
Tour operator:
Tour code:
VSAMZN20
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on the "South America Discovery" tour, an unforgettable journey through Brazil, Argentina, and Peru. Experience the vibrant energy of Rio de Janeiro, marvel at the awe-inspiring Iguassu Falls, and immerse yourself in the cultural richness of Buenos Aires. Discover the historical treasures of Lima, explore the ancient wonders of Machu Picchu, and delve into the Incan heritage of Cusco. This tour offers a perfect blend of iconic sights, cultural experiences, and natural beauty, all while enjoying the comfort of cherry-picked hotels, expert guidance, and many included meals. Join us for an adventure that promises memories to last a lifetime.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive Rio De Janeiro (3 Nights)
Location: Rio de Janeiro
Accommodation: Hotel, Mirador Rio Copacabana
Accommodation Name: Mirador Rio Copacabana
Golden swathes of famous coastline, tropical landscapes and a certain joie de vivre will welcome you to one of the world’s most vibrant cities, Rio de Janeiro. Energy pulses through every pore of this passionate and fun loving city, flooding from the favelas to the football fields and cumulating in nightly parties where the caipirinhas are free flowing and the samba rhythm is infectious. Rio may be best known for its annual Carnival, but visiting here you’ll realise that every day is cause for celebration. Settle in to your hotel before meeting up with your Travel Director this afternoon. Then perhaps hit the sands of Copacabana to watch the sun set whilst you sip your first Cachaça.
Day 2: Rio De Janeiro Sightseeing And Free Time
Location: Rio de Janeiro
Accommodation: Mirador Rio Copacabana Hotel
Accommodation Name: Mirador Rio Copacabana Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
The picturesque Cosme Velho district will be your first port of call today, where 1920’s neocolonial buildings will surround you as you board the Corcovado Rack Railway. Hopping on board you’ll wind your way through the Tijuca Forest to the very top of the Corcovado Mountains, standing in awe as you catch a first glimpse of the 30 metre high Christ the Redeemer. The undisputed icon of Rio, this magnificent art deco statue is one of the new 7 Wonders of the World and offers the best vantage point of the ‘Marvellous City’ stretching out below. Take your time exploring here before heading on to visit lively Copacabana and beautiful Ipanema, Rio’s best known beaches. Tonight, celebrate the culture of South America at the Carretão Ipanema Churrascaria.
Day 3: Rio De Janeiro City Free Time
Location: Rio de Janeiro
Accommodation: Mirador Rio Copacabana Hotel
Accommodation Name: Mirador Rio Copacabana Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Waking up to your final full day in Rio, today is free to explore your way. For those keen to get a closer look, you could also opt for a half day city tour of Rio which includes ascending the Sugarloaf Mountain by cable car for absolutely stand out views of Guanabara Bay.
Day 4: Rio De Janeiro – Iguassu Falls (2 Nights)
Location: Iguassu Falls
Accommodation: Viale Cataratas Hotel
Accommodation Name: Viale Cataratas Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Leaving the colourful costumes and infectious rhythms of Rio behind, this morning you’ll head to the airport to catch your flight to Iguassu Falls. Words can’t really describe the magnificence of the world’s largest series of waterfalls (275 to be exact), which straddle the border between Argentina and Brazil and are surrounded by lush expanses of national park. Settle in to your hotel this afternoon and spend the evening relaxing, no doubt bubbling with excitement for the natural spectacle that tomorrow will bring.
Day 5: Iguassu Falls And Free Time
Location: Iguassu Falls
Accommodation: Viale Cataratas Hotel
Accommodation Name: Viale Cataratas Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Pack your raincoat and your sense of adventure this morning as you’re off to visit the Iguassu National Park, entering on the Brazilian side of the falls. You’ll be venturing down to the ominously named and utterly exhilarating Devil’s Throat, the tallest and most impressive of Iguassu’s waterfalls. Remember that raincoat? Now’s the time to use it! This afternoon opt to go on an open-air tram ride^ through the jungle to the Macuco Falls, where you’ll then board a custom designed inflatable motorboat for a high intensity ride to the base of the falls. If keeping things a little more sedate is more your style, opt to visit a bird park where you can spot more than 150 different species of birds.
Day 6: Iguassu Falls – Buenos Aires (3 Nights)
Location: Iguassu Falls
Accommodation: NH City
Accommodation Name: NH City
Meals Included: Breakfast
Country hopping between Brazil and Argentina, today you’ll cross the Tancredo Neves Bridge, otherwise known as Fraternity Bridge, to explore the Argentinian side of the falls. Adding a new stamp to your passport as you cross through customs, you’ll drive through the lush and wildlife rich Argentinian Iguassu National Park to reach the falls and cascades which are equally as impressive from this side of the border. Boarding the open sided and near silent Ecological Jungle Train which is every bit as scenic and sensual as it sounds, you’ll pay a second visit to Devil’s Throat before heading to the airport to catch a flight to passionate, sexy, European influenced Buenos Aires.
Day 7: Buenos Aires Sightseeing And Free Time
Location: Buenos Aires
Accommodation: NH City
Accommodation Name: NH City
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Waking up in sultry, red bloodied Buenos Aires this morning is a prospect that should fill you with excitement. This meat loving, tango obsessed capital city is a mix of sultry charm and gritty splendour, with European inspired buildings and street art pops from every corner. Dive in to all BA has to offer on a sightseeing tour that will visit 9 de Julio Avenue, the widest avenue in the world, outstanding Colon Theatre, Plaza de Mayo, Metropolitan Cathedral and San Telmo, the oldest district in the city. Finishing up in colourful and charming La Boca you’ll then have time to explore by yourself this afternoon before dressing up in your South American finest for a night of Argentinian steak and classic tango, accompanied by a spectacular live orchestra.
Day 8: Buenos Aires Free Time
Location: Buenos Aires
Accommodation: NH City
Accommodation Name: NH City
Meals Included: Breakfast
Make the most of your free day in Buenos Aires joining one of our many optional experiences. One option is to head out into the glorious pampas (grasslands) surrounding Buenos Aires to visit a working ranch to learn more about the gaucho culture, enjoying folk music, traditional dances and carriage rides before rounding off the experience with a juicy BBQ lunch. You also have the option of visiting the lush countryside region of Tigre Delta, which offers a laid-back vibe and a chance to see a different side of Argentine life. Or, soak in another type of culture with a visit to “El Querandi,” a house in the historical district considered a living testimony of the city for a wine tasting. You can also join an Argentinean Culinary Experience making your own empanada and sampling Argentinean steak. Lastly, take a lesson in the iconic tango.
Day 9: Buenos Aires – Lima (2 Nights)
Location: Lima
Accommodation: Hilton Garden Inn Lima
Accommodation Name: Hilton Garden Inn Lima
Meals Included: Breakfast
From Argentina you’ll fly to Peru this morning, bound for the ‘City of the Kings’, Lima. Rising above a long coastline of crumbling cliffs the city has a real sense of faded yet romantic grandeur, with historical sights a plenty and a culinary scene that is revered the world over. Arriving here you’ll have the rest of the day free to explore, which isn’t hard to do in this cultural and artsy city. Head to Parque del Amor to admire the Gaudi style architecture with beautiful views over Lima Bay, or take a wander around popular and bustling Miraflores. Tonight, in celebration of your first night in Peru, dinner should absolutely involve fresh ceviche followed by a tangy Pisco Sour as you toast to sunset.
Day 10: Lima Sightseeing And Free Time
Location: Lima
Accommodation: Hilton Garden Inn Lima
Accommodation Name: Hilton Garden Inn Lima
Meals Included: Breakfast
Visit the famous Plaza Mayor and Cathedral as well as the Government Palace, Archbishop’s Palace and City Hall. Delve into the dark history of the San Francisco Monastery, a museum featuring mysterious catacombs. Your afternoon and evening are free to join one of our exciting optional experiences. Take a walking tour with a local expert of the lively Miraflores district highlighting the Boardwalk of Miraflores, a cliff rising above the ocean at around 130 feet and the Larcomar shopping area. Or, indulge your taste buds on a food tour through Barranco or a street food tour – from coffee to churros – through Lima’s city centre. In the evening, opt to visit the colourful, musical Magic Water Fountains of Lima.
Day 11: Lima – Cusco – Sacred Valley (2 Nights)
Location: Cusco
Accommodation: Ava Valle Sagrado Spot
Accommodation Name: Ava Valle Sagrado Spot
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Flying into Cusco, welcome to the Incan capital of the world! Boasting the richest heritage of any South American city, Cusco is a wealth of archaeological greatness and the oldest continuously inhabited city on the continent. It’s also the gateway to Machu Picchu, so throbs day and night with visitors exploring its ancient streets. Take in the ornate temples and Incan ruins as you arrive here. You’ll also have the chance to learn about the local weaving process, a craft that has been kept alive for thousands of years, and browse different products made from the fur of camelids. Also stopping by Pisac Market, the most famous market in the Cusco region where local indigenous communities from all over come to sell their wares and produce, you’ll finally drive the hairpin turned road that will lead you to the Sacred Valley, your stop for tonight.
Day 12: Machu Picchu Excursion
Location: Machu Picchu
Accommodation: Ava Valle Sagrado Spot
Accommodation Name: Ava Valle Sagrado Spot
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Today is the day! Up bright and early this morning, you’ll travel to the ancient little town of Ollantaytambo to board the train to Aguas Calientes, the Incan village at the base of Machu Picchu. Slowly chugging your way through the rugged lands of the Sacred Valley, feel the excitement levels build as you pass by village settlements and towering mountains, the landscape changing as you descend. Making the last leg of the journey via shuttle, you’ll finally arrive at the most famous archaeological site of South America and one of the New 7 Wonders of the World, Machu Picchu. Catching a first glimpse of this awe inspiring ancient city above the clouds is a moment you’ll never forget, so be sure to take a few minutes just to soak it all in. Take your time exploring the vast complex of fascinating ruins and let the mind boggle at how it was all built, before descending the mountain and making your way back to the Sacred Valley.
Day 13: Sacred Valley – Cusco (2 Nights)
Location: Cusco
Accommodation: San Agustin Plaza
Accommodation Name: San Agustin Plaza
Meals Included: Breakfast
Begin your day in Pisaq, famous for its local market and empanadas. Feast on the specialty tasting the local food at a women-owned and operated empanada workshop. Learn from Mrs. Ernestina how to make empanadas out of seven different kinds of flour before enjoying the empanadas for lunch. Continuing on to Cusco you’ll also stop by the fortress of Sacsayhuamán, a UNESCO World Heritage site that dates back to the 13th century, before arriving at the Incan capital of Cusco. Embark on a sightseeing tour of ancient Cusco visiting Coricancha, the Temple of the Sun and most important temple in the Incan Empire, before admiring the bounty of colonial art on display in the Cathedral.
Day 14: Depart Cusco
Location: Cusco
Meals Included: Breakfast
3 countries, 2 New Wonders of the World and 1 incredible adventure later, your trip will finally come to an end this morning. Leaving with priceless memories, a wealth of new knowledge and a wonderful group of new friends, you’ll make your way to the airport today. Departure is at leisure from Cusco Airport. When booking your international flight from Lima,-allow 3-4 hours of connecting time between the arrival of the national and the departure of the international flight
What's Included
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Internal Flights
All internal air included in trip cost.
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Accommodation
Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted.
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Expert Guidance
An expert Travel Director and professional Driver.
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Meals
Many meals included.
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Audio Headsets
Audio Headsets provided throughout your holiday to enhance your included sightseeing experiences.
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Transportation
Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries.
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City Tours
City orientation tours.
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Optional Experiences
Extensive variety of Choice Optional Experiences.
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Accommodation Flexibility
On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilised.
What's Not Included
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International Flights
International flights to and from the starting and ending locations are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and must be purchased separately.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and beverages are not included.
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Optional Excursions
Optional excursions and activities not listed in the itinerary are not included.
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Visa Fees
Visa fees and other travel documentation costs are not included.
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Gratuities
Gratuities for guides, drivers, and hotel staff are not included.
Mode of Transport
Travel in luxury air-conditioned coaches with Wi-Fi in most countries, and enjoy all internal flights included in the trip cost. Experience scenic train rides to Machu Picchu and through the Iguassu National Park.
Accommodation
Stay in cherry-picked hotels such as Mirador Rio Copacabana in Rio de Janeiro, Viale Cataratas Hotel in Iguassu Falls, NH City in Buenos Aires, Hilton Garden Inn Lima, Ava Valle Sagrado Spot in Sacred Valley, and San Agustin Plaza in Cusco.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of meals are included in the South America Discovery tour?
The tour includes a variety of meals such as 12 breakfasts, 5 dinners, 1 lunch, and 1 iconic breakfast. Many meals are included throughout the trip, and there are opportunities to enjoy local cuisine, such as a BBQ lunch at a working ranch in Buenos Aires and fresh ceviche in Lima.
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Are internal flights included in the cost of the tour?
Yes, all internal air travel is included in the cost of the trip.
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What kind of accommodation can I expect on this tour?
The tour includes stays at cherry-picked hotels that are tried and trusted. On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized.
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What kind of transportation is provided during the tour?
The tour provides luxury air-conditioned coach transportation with Wi-Fi available in most countries. Additionally, there are city orientation tours and an extensive variety of choice optional experiences.
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Will there be a guide during the tour?
Yes, an expert Travel Director and a professional Driver will accompany you throughout the tour.
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What kind of sightseeing experiences are included?
The tour includes city orientation tours, visits to iconic sights such as Christ the Redeemer, Iguassu Falls, Machu Picchu, and various historical and cultural landmarks in Rio de Janeiro, Buenos Aires, Lima, and Cusco. Audio headsets are provided to enhance your sightseeing experiences.
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Are there any optional experiences available during the tour?
Yes, there is an extensive variety of choice optional experiences available, such as a half-day city tour of Rio, a visit to a bird park in Iguassu, a ranch visit in Buenos Aires, and various food tours in Lima.
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What should I expect on the day we visit Machu Picchu?
On the day of the Machu Picchu excursion, you will travel to Ollantaytambo to board a train to Aguas Calientes. From there, you will take a shuttle to Machu Picchu, where you will have time to explore the vast complex of fascinating ruins. Afterward, you will descend the mountain and return to the Sacred Valley.
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What activities are available during free time in Buenos Aires?
During your free time in Buenos Aires, you can join optional experiences such as visiting a working ranch to learn about gaucho culture, exploring the Tigre Delta, participating in a wine tasting at 'El Querandi,' or taking a tango lesson.
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What kind of experiences are included in Lima?
In Lima, you will visit the Plaza Mayor, Cathedral, Government Palace, Archbishop's Palace, City Hall, and the San Francisco Monastery. Optional experiences include a walking tour of Miraflores, a food tour through Barranco or Lima's city center, and a visit to the Magic Water Fountains of Lima.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
The beauty and joy of taking a guided vacation with Costsaver is that you get to meet, travel and make friends with people from all over the world.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Costsaver is part of The Travel Corporation, which has been in business for over 100 years.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Costsaver is proud to be a founding partner of the TreadRight Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation started in 2008. To date the charity has donated over US$2 million to assist underprivileged communities and support sustainable tourism initiatives around the globe.
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Low Deposit
Costsaver requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of costsaver charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
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