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Ultimate South America with train to Machu Picchu (From Mar 2025)

This tour has other variations available

Everyday Price From

$10,021

$10,815

24 days

No Countries

Overview

The ultimate trip for those that love to explore, this trip has Peru, Argentina & Brazil covered. From misty train rides through the sacred valley to Machu Picchu, ziplining through the Amazon jungle, getting the party started in Rio and so much more, on this epic odyssey of waterfalls, beaches and big cities, no day is quite like the next. Adventurers everywhere, you've found your calling.

Locations Visited

Lima, Arequipa, Colca Canyon, Puno, Raqchi, Cusco, Sacred Valley, Aguas Calientes, Machu Picchu, Puerto Maldonado, Jungle Lodge, Buenos Aires, Iguassu Falls, Rio de Janeiro

Countries Visited

Peru, Argentina, Brazil

Travel Style

Accommodations

23 nights included

Age Requirements

Travel for 18-35 year olds

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Itinerary

COLLAPSE ALL EXPAND ALL

Day 1

Start Lima

Welcome to Lima, adventurers! Steeped in Spanish colonialism yet buzzing with modern metro vibes, Lima is sure to ignite your love for Peru. Spend your morning marvelling at lavishly decorated churches and an underground tunnel cemetery overflowing with bones or catacombs, then hit the Barranco district this afternoon to get a feel for its bohemian ambiance. A stroll over the Bridge of Sighs is also a must. And of course no trip to Lima is complete without devouring at least one portion of ceviche – it’s a pretty massive deal in the city. Round off the day watching the sun set over the Pacific, most likely with a pisco sour in hand…

  • Accommodation

    NAIA Miraflores Hotel (or similar)


  • Meals

    Dinner

Highlights

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Tour Lima

Get to know this magnificent clifftop city. It’s steeped in history and pretty architecture. But we’re all about the epic food.

The skies are calling this morning as we board our included flight bound for the ‘White City’ of Arequipa, Peru’s second largest city which lies in the shadow of three majestic volcanoes.
The town of Arequipa, or La Ciudad Blanca, is both culturally and aesthetically astounding. A city tour will gets us orientated, taking in highlights including the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Plaza de Armas, then this evening is all about something we reckon you’re going to love… food. Rocoto Relleno (stuffed hot peppers) and Chupe de Camarones (crayfish chowder) are both on the menu, and after a busy day exploring this ancient city, we’ll sure be deserving of a feast.

  • Accommodation

    Selina Arequipa (or similar)


  • Meals

    Breakfast

Highlights

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Fly to Arequipa

Sit tight as you swoop into Peru’s second biggest city. The views of volcanic peaks are rivalled only by the incredible food.

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Tour Arequipa

Get to know the ‘white city’ better. Explore the highlights like Plaza de Armas and take some pics of the incredible backdrop of volcanoes.

Are you ready for another nature masterclass? Waving farewell to Arequipa this morning, we’ll pass through Salinas and Aguada Blanco national reserve en route to one of the world’s deepest canyons.

After a journey of windswept landscapes, sandstone cliff & stops for hot coca tea, we will arrive at the highest point of our entire journey, which at 4910 metres/16,108ft above sea level is the same height as Mont Blanc, Europe’s highest peak. Those jaws will be on the floor as you catch a first glimpse of this epic natural masterpiece. Can you feel the tingles already?

  • Accommodation

    Hotel la casa de Mamayacchi (or similar)


  • Meals

    Breakfast

    Lunch

    Dinner

Highlights

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Explore Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve

It’s a real ‘pinch yourself’ moment as you ramble around the Andean plateaus, discovering lakes, meadows, llamas and flamingos as you go. 

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See El Misti Chachani and Pichu Pichu

See these iconic volcanos IRL. Pics or it didn’t happen!

This morning promises to be pretty mega as we hop out of bed in search for the King of the Andes, otherwise known as the Andean Condor, which boasts a mega 3-metre wingspan. Fingers crossed luck is on our side – some days we may spot 10 condors, other days none – but that’s the fun of Mother Nature. Either way, the majestic view of the Colca Canyon never ceases to impress, and we know you’ll leave feeling like you’ve witnessed something truly special. Back on the road, we’ll roll past quaint villages, stop for lunch in Chivay, then head on to the high plains of Peru.
Yet more natural beauty will be dished up this afternoon as we pull in to Puno, located on the shores of Lake Titicaca. Spend the evening settling in to our cosy hotel, or head into town for some dance floor action but a word of warning – Puno sits at an altitude of 3657 metres, so go easy on the piscos and the energetic dancefloor moves as the altitude could leave you feeling more breathless than normal. Tomorrow promises to be one to remember as we take to the lake for a taste of ancient Peruvian life…

  • Accommodation

    Hotel Casona Plaza (or similar)


  • Meals

    Breakfast

Highlights

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Enjoy Panoramic Views at Cruz del Cóndor

Brave the lookout point at 3287m. Take in the unrivalled views and spot some Andean Condor birds.

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Live like a Local in Maca

Experience life in this traditional Peruvian village in the Colca Canyon. It’s an epic 3277m above sea level! 

Ready to explore this area in all its Multi-coloured glory? We thought so. Jumping in a triciclo (a three-wheeled bike taxi) we’ll bump our way down to the port and get our first taste of life on the Lake (fun fact – Lake Titicaca is South America’s largest freshwater lake). Our boat ride will take us first to Taquile Island, which to this day remains one of the most culturally intact communities in the whole of Peru, and it’s here you’ll meet local weaving groups and stop for lunch.

After exploring, we’ll then jump back on the boat and make for the Uros Islands, or as they’re more commonly called, the floating islands. Stepping off the boat you’ll feel like you’re walking on a water bed – unsurprising given the islands are made entirely from reeds. Here, we’ll hang with locals, visit a fish farm and even explore the local museum (yes, on an island made from reeds). The island community survives by selling textiles and totora reed boats to tourists, so after stocking up on one-off souvenirs, tonight we are warmly welcomed by locals on a Home Stay at Llachon Village.

  • Accommodation

    Lake Titicaca Homestay (or similar)


  • Meals

    Breakfast

    Dinner

Highlights

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Ride on a Triciclo

If you’ve secretly always wanted to hop on one of these, here’s your chance.

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Sail to Islands on Lake Titicaca

Jump on a boat to hop around the reed islands in the world’s highest navigable lake (3657m). And stop off to meet the locals.

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Meet Uros Island Residents

A humbling opportunity to get to know the local people on these reed islands in Lake Titicaca.

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Homestay at Lake Titicaca in Puno

Immerse yourself in culture by getting to know the locals.

Heading out of Puno this morning, we’ll make our way to Pukara to visit a small museum offering up archaeological findings and Peru’s iconic ceramic bulls. Hitting the road again we’ll journey through the snow-capped surrounds of La Raya, stopping for lunch in the town of Sicuani. Eagle eyes, this is llama country, so have those cameras at the ready.
Ancient Incan culture suggest that the Raqchi ruins are sacred for their powerful healing waters. Your entry tickets on us, and our local guide will paint the full picture as we explore the ruins. The Temple of Wiracocha is the pride of the site, and we’ll learn that the ruins were built as a village defence. History lesson complete we’ll head on to Cusco, the next stop of our adventure.
Our final leg of the day lands us in Cusco, the hub of ancient Incan culture. This place is a feast for the senses and will call you out for an evening of exploration and maybe even some after dark antics, Cusco style.

  • Accommodation

    Selina Saphi (or similar)


  • Meals

    Breakfast

Highlights

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Stroll around Pukara La Raya and Sicuani

Stop off at two traditional Peruvian towns. Step up your cultural knowledge at Pukara’s museum. Then take in the scenic views of Sicuani.

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Look Around the Temple of Wiracocha

See the sights and learn the backstory of why the Incas built this temple for the deity Wiracocha.

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Explore Raqchi

Unleash your spiritual side, as you explore the ancient Inca ruins known as Raqchi.

Another day, another incredible Latin American destination to uncover; today it's sun up 'til sun down in Cusco. Shop for artisan jewellery and woodworks, roam the cobble-stone streets or just stroll the San Pedro markets eating cacao buds and sipping on coca leaf tea. Today really is what you make it!

  • Accommodation

    Selina Saphi (or similar)


  • Meals

    Breakfast

Highlights

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Visit San Blas, Qoricancha and San Pedro Market

Graze on cancha or cacao nibs as you browse the local wares and see historical sights.

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Walking Tour of Cusco

Your chance to pick up some mementos at San Pedro Markets and then see Cusco Cathedral, San Blas and Coricancha.

Heading out of Cusco and bound for the Sacred Valley on our private coach, this is where our journey into the ruins and mystique of this land truly begins. But first, llamas. An iconic symbol of Peru, we’ll be stopping off at a llama farm to show some love to these furry favourites up close, and we’re talking the whole humpback family – llamas, vicuna and alpacas. We’ll then stop off to witness the ancient Incan art of weaving in practise by a group of talented local artisans. Throughout the journey, play close attention to your surrounds – there’s the chance to spot the Incan farming technique of terracing and other local ways of life. Want to know what the Peruvians do for fun? You’ll get the chance to play the traditional game of “Sapo”, and exactly what that entails we’ll leave to the imagination…
Our explorations of the Sacred Valley will begin with a guided tour of the Pisac and Ollantaytambo ruins. Our Local Guide will give you the d-l on both, visiting the circular terraced Pisac ruins first which date back to the 1400’s. Moving on to Ollantaytambo, base camp for those taking the trek tomorrow, we’ll appease dry mouths with some homemade Chicha de Jora brew. This tiny town may be small in geographical terms, but what it lacks in size it makes up for in attitude, with artisan shops and cafes spilling out onto streets, and the roaring Urubamba river providing the perfect natural background noise. For those embarking on the Inca trail tomorrow this is your final chance to stock up on last minute essentials (socks, socks and more socks). For all others, spend your time soaking in the vibes, hanging with other travellers and just getting a feel for this iconic little town.

  • Accommodation

    Tunupa Lodge Ollantaytambo (or similar)


  • Meals

    Breakfast

Highlights

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Help Preserve Millenary Traditions MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience

Learn about the vibrant Andean art of weaving & goldsmithing in Pisac Qolque. Every penny you spend here helps them preserve their time-worn cultural identities & form of self-expression.

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Explore the Sacred Valley

See this former heartland of the Incan Empire and hike around the Pisac ruins. 

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Visit Pisac Town and Market

The sleepy town will give you a taste of local life in the Sacred Valley. Don’t forget to pick up some mementos at the market.

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Taste Local Chicha de Jora

AKA ‘corn beer’. This ceremonial bevvy was the drink of choice for Incan nobility.

For those not embarking on the Inca Trail, the morning is yours to enjoy the surrounding lush mountains of Ollantaytambo.

Can you feel the excitement mounting? Yep – those are pretty much the feels when Machu Picchu is quite literally on the horizon. This afternoon we’ll hop on the train to Aguas Calientes, a cute town in its own right complete with roaring river, quaint bridges and local haunts, but most famously known as the gateway town to Machu Picchu. We’ll meet up with those who opted for the one day trek, and basically spend the evening hyping each other up for what’s to come tomorrow.

  • Accommodation

    Inka Tower Machupicchu Hotel (or similar)


  • Meals

    Breakfast

Highlights

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Train to the Gateway of Machu Picchu

Feel the goosebumps of excitement as you glide into Aguas Calientes and get ready to start this life-changing experience.

Excitement levels at an all-time high, the day we’ve all been waiting for is finally here – it’s Machu Picchu time! This is one big old tick off the life goals list, so enjoy every single second of it.

Built around 1450 at the height of the Incan Empire, Machu Picchu is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the seven wonders of the new world. We’ll be treated to a guided tour of the site taking in such wonders as the Temple of the Three Windows and Huayna Picchu (the peak you’ll of seen in every Machu Picchu image ever), and of course you’ll have some alone time to explore the area as only you can do. 

Back on the train we’ll de-brief on our once-in-a-lifetime experience as we head back to Cusco. Last time round was all about getting acquainted with the city, so now you’ve got you’re bearings you can really get lost amongst the market stalls and cobbled streets, maybe even going truly local by trying out a serving of cuy.

  • Accommodation

    Selina Saphi (or similar)


  • Meals

    Breakfast

    Dinner

Highlights

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Entry into Machu Picchu: UNESCO World Heritage Site

It’s the moment you’ve been waiting for! Time to explore the Incan citadel with your new Contiki fam. #travelgoals

The last few days have been pretty full on, so today is all about seeking out some much needed r’n’r. Grab a lie in at the hotel then sip fresh mountain coffee in the Plaza de Armas, or maybe take a stroll around town to pick up an alpaca sweater or ten (they are super snuggly). Can’t shake that taste for adventure? We hear you. 

  • Accommodation

    Selina Saphi (or similar)


  • Meals

    Breakfast

Saying a final farewell to Cusco, we’ll hop on our included flight over the Andes to the city of Puerto Maldonado. With the sound of macaws and toucans welcoming us in, this can only mean one thing…it’s jungle time.

A quick tour of the city will reveal colourful fruit stalls, open air markets and locals going about their day.  But now we're back underway and we just want to get to the jungle…

What’s accessible only by boat, is made from wood and clay and surrounded by the sounds and colours of nature? Answer – our rainforest lodge, your blissful home for the night. We’ll work up a pre-dinner appetite by hiking to the canopy tower, then after a tasty home-cooked dinner continue our outdoor pursuits by heading out to spot caimans – a member of the alligator family native to the Amazon. Tonight promises to be one for the story bank as you fall asleep in your open-walled room to the exotic sounds of the surrounding jungle.

  • Accommodation

    Corto Maltes Amazonia Lodge (or similar)


  • Meals

    Breakfast

    Lunch

    Dinner

Highlights

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Fly to Puerto Maldonado

Cameras ready. It’s not every day you get a bird’s eye view of the Amazon rainforest

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Hike through the Amazonian canopies

We'll make our way through the lush green Amazon rainforest at our Jungle Lodge in Puerto Maldonado. There's no better way to reconnect with nature!

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Orientation tour of Puerto Maldonado

If the vibrant morning song of the jungle birds hasn’t roused you early doors, the prospect of the Sandoval Lake teeming with wildlife will. Our morning canoe cruise will have us spotting prehistoric hoatzin birds and giant river otters. Satisfaction levels on high, the rest of the afternoon is all yours. Tired and hungry after another adventure filled day, we’ll head back to the lodge for the night. After such an epic day of jungle antics, we’re guessing a good night’s sleep and some sweet group hangs are pretty high on the agenda.

  • Accommodation

    Corto Maltes Amazonia Lodge (or similar)


  • Meals

    Breakfast

    Lunch

    Dinner

Highlights

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Take a canoe through the Sandoval Lake

Ride on a canoe over the serene waters of the Sandoval Lake, surrounded by lush greenery. Who knows? You might spot giant river otters sticking their head out to give you a show.

Today marks our last day in Peru before heading east to Argentina and Brazil, so how better to spend it than one last night in the city where it all began?
We'll catch our flight to our familiar destination, Lima.
Options for your free evening in Lima are varied and endless. Maybe make for the trendy district of Miraflores, hang in Parque Kennedy or opt for one last plate of fresh to death ceviche in the city its best known for. One things for sure, we know you’ll be toasting your Peruvian leg with a final pisco sour, as tomorrow the nectar takes a decidedly red and rich turn as we enter Argentina.

  • Accommodation

    Selina Miraflores (or similar)


  • Meals

    Breakfast

Highlights

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Fly to Lima

Get set to land in the gastro capital of Latin America. Where ‘olde worlde’ meets modern-day life, in this sundrenched, clifftop city. 

Who’s ready for a new country? That’s right globetrotters, we’re up, up and away again this morning (how many included flights is that now?) in the direction of the Country of Seven Continents. Everything about Argentina gives us the tingles, and we know you're going to love it just as much as we do. But enough waxng lyrical, we've got a new city to conquer…
South America’s most cosmopolitan city will spread out before us like a treasure box waiting to be opened as we descend on Buenos Aires, and with 4 nights to spend in the Argentinian capital damn right those are excitement butterflies in your stomach. If the 4.5 hour flight zonked you a bit (just be glad you didn't do it overland) maybe keep it chilled in the afternoon, but for the balls of energy amongst you we’ve got plenty to keep you entertained. Tonight you'll meet those joining for the next epic 10 days!

  • Accommodation

    M Concept Hotel (or similar)


  • Meals

    Breakfast

Highlights

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Fly to Buenos Aires

Get some rest before you explore Argentina’s sizzling capital. A city that’s famous for amazing food, good wine, Latin passion and legendary nightlife.

Now's your opportunity to get the full Porteno (locals from Buenos Aires) experience.  This morning why not go check out the colorful La Boca neighbourhood? Tonight we're heading to a tango show. Have a go yourself, enjoy the first of the Argentine food you're sure to love, and then watch the pros show you how it's done.

 

  • Accommodation

    M Concept Hotel (or similar)


  • Meals

    Breakfast

    Dinner

Highlights

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Tour Buenos Aires with a local

Experience the passion and glamour of Argentina’s capital city, with an expert guide showing you the sights. 

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Do dinner and a Tango show

You can’t go to Argentina and not watch live Tango dancing! It’s wrong. Like eating a steak without a glass of red. 

Today you've got the opportunity to take a day trip to Tigre. Learn about the history and culture of the inhabitants of the "isleños". If you're more comfortable out on the water, opt to experience the Tigre Delta for the day on a relaxing boat ride, or if you want to stay on dry land enjoy a short bike ride around the surrounding areas. No matter what you choose, we'll all dive into a delicious regional lunch. Weather permitting you can even swim and kayak. If you'd prefer to stay the other side of the border, Buenos Aires is yours to explore today, your way.

  • Accommodation

    M Concept Hotel (or similar)


  • Meals

    Breakfast

Now that you know Buenos Aires like a Porteño the day is yours to explore! Join in a day at the Polo where you'll learn about the traditional Argentine game, learn how to play and even partake in a game of your own. In love with the city life? Then spend some time exploring the museums and/or the shops in Palermo.  There truly is something for everyone.

  • Accommodation

    M Concept Hotel (or similar)


  • Meals

    Breakfast

Landing in Puerto Iguazu we’ll hop over the border and dig our toes into Brazilian soil for the first time, clapping eyes on yet another astounding natural wonder. Listen out for all those oohhs and aahhs. A collection of 275 individual waterfalls, Iguassu Falls sprawls both Brazil and Argentina, with both sides offering up stunning UNESCO World Heritage parks and views. Today though, is all about the Brazilian side, and what better way to see the falls from every angle than with an optional helicopter ride, taking the term ‘birds eye view’ to a whole new level. Go on – treat yo’ self! For those keeping feet on the ground, take your time exploring the Parque Nacional do Iguaçu. Tonight, dinners packing a serious punch – we’ll be treating you to an authentic Brazilian BBQ dinner. Say hello to the meat sweats…

  • Accommodation

    Foz Plaza Hotel (or similar)


  • Meals

    Breakfast

    Dinner

Highlights

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Fly into Iguassu

Get set to tick another travel goal off the bucket list. We’re jetting straight into the gateway for Iguassu Falls.

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Explore Iguassu National Park

This World Wonder is a fiesta for the imagination. The cascades of spraying waterfalls and subtropical forest make an epic backdrop

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Try Churrascaria in Iguassu

There ain’t no BBQ like a Brazilian BBQ! Grab your Contiki fam and feast on these grilled skewers. 

Iguassu we’re not done with you yet! Yesterday was all about the Brazilian side, but today we’re hopping back over to Argentina to see what the deal is from this side of the falls. We’ll take a hike to the very edge of Devil’s Throat, the highest of the 275 falls, and for those keen there’s even the option to take to the water with a speed boat ride through the spray of the falls. Refreshing? Oh you could say that…With a full day spent here, take your time exploring, trying to figure out the age old debate – which side wears it better? 

  • Accommodation

    Foz Plaza Hotel (or similar)


  • Meals

    Breakfast

Highlights

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Admire Devil's Throat waterfalls

These colossal falls make the ultimate backdrop for a group selfie. Strike a pose with your Contiki fam.

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Visit the Argentine side of Iguassu Falls

Catch you later Iguassu – Rio, we’re coming in hot...

If Rio knows one thing, it’s how to p-a-r-t-y, so having fun in this life loving city is already a given. But first things first – let’s get acquainted with our surroundings a little better. After a quick orientation tour, the afternoon is then yours to explore as you please, though given our hotel's beachfront location, we reckon you'll only have one thing on your mind.

  • Accommodation

    Selina Copacabana (or similar)


  • Meals

    Breakfast

Highlights

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Jet into Rio de Janeiro

Woohoo! We’re en route to Brazil's carnival capital. Try to catch a glimpse of the Christ the Redeemer statue from the sky

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Take a Tour of Rio

Christ the Redeemer. Sugarloaf. Copacabana. Ipanema. It’s all here to fill up up your heart and your Insta feed. 

Today check out the city from above, hang gliding to see Rio in all its scenic glory. Then this afternoon is all yours, and it sounds like Copacabana Beach is calling your name. Or if a game's in town watch the masters of football do it like no one else can, while you soak in the crazy atmosphere that goes alongside the national sport.

  • Accommodation

    Selina Copacabana (or similar)


  • Meals

    Breakfast

Highlights

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Learn about Local Communities in Favela Cantagalo MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience

Ever heard of Favelas? They're growing neighbourhoods in Brazil. And on this tour, we'll visit Favela Cantagalo near Rio. We'll check out the Portal of Saint Roman, walk through alleyways, see the 10 paintings of the Houses-Screen, and even stop by a few viewpoints along the way. You'll even visit the Museu de Favela-MUF, a historical museum about memories and cultural heritage of favelas in the world. It's a collection about 20,000 residents and their ways of life, and how their stories are an unknown but important part of Rio de Janeiro's history. Trust us, you don't wanna miss this one.

Excuse us while we cry into our caipirinhas - today is our last full day on trip. But before the emotions run too high, let's make sure we see it out with a bang, Rio style. First up is a visit to Christ the Redeemer, a New Wonder of the World. Standing at an impressive 30m high (98ft), this religious monument casts an almighty shadow over the city below, and will be a moment you won't be forgetting anytime soon. This afternoon, how does a boat cruise sound? Featuring cocktails, tunes and good times, it'd be rude not to. Afterwards, we'll enjoy an included farewell dinner together.

  • Accommodation

    Selina Copacabana (or similar)


  • Meals

    Breakfast

    Dinner

Highlights

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See Christ the Redeemer

This needs no introduction. Tick this iconic statue off your #travelgoals bucket list. And don’t forget your camera.

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Guanabara Bay Cruise

Take a cruise along the arcing Guanabara Bay and enjoy Caiprinas and music

Bid Farewell with a Feast

Spend some time with your Contiki crew, while you dine on your final meal of this trip at a local spot. Goodbyes might be bittersweet, but the food sure is so much more than that!

This morning, this adventure of epic proportion will finally come to an end. Hug it out with the new friends you now class as family, and damn right you’re already on those reunion tour plans. Europe next summer, anyone?

  • Meals

    Breakfast

Tour Lima
Fly to Arequipa
Tour Arequipa
Explore Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve
See El Misti Chachani and Pichu Pichu
Enjoy Panoramic Views at Cruz del Cóndor
Live like a Local in Maca
Ride on a Triciclo
Sail to Islands on Lake Titicaca
Meet Uros Island Residents
Homestay at Lake Titicaca in Puno
Stroll around Pukara La Raya and Sicuani
Look Around the Temple of Wiracocha
Explore Raqchi
Visit San Blas, Qoricancha and San Pedro Market
Walking Tour of Cusco
Help Preserve Millenary Traditions MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience
Explore the Sacred Valley
Visit Pisac Town and Market
Taste Local Chicha de Jora
Train to the Gateway of Machu Picchu
Entry into Machu Picchu: UNESCO World Heritage Site
Fly to Puerto Maldonado
Hike through the Amazonian canopies
Orientation tour of Puerto Maldonado
Take a canoe through the Sandoval Lake
Fly to Lima
Fly to Buenos Aires
Tour Buenos Aires with a local
Do dinner and a Tango show
Fly into Iguassu
Explore Iguassu National Park
Try Churrascaria in Iguassu
Admire Devil's Throat waterfalls
Visit the Argentine side of Iguassu Falls
Jet into Rio de Janeiro
Take a Tour of Rio
Learn about Local Communities in Favela Cantagalo MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience
See Christ the Redeemer
Guanabara Bay Cruise
Bid Farewell with a Feast

Highlights

FAQs

  • A modular trip means fellow travellers will join and leave at various locations. There’ll be some goodbyes, sure, but there’ll also be plenty of hellos with new like-minded travellers.

  • Flexibility is key when you’re travelling in Latin America. The itinerary will give you a good idea of what your trip is gonna look like. But routes, schedules, hotels & modes of transportation may be subject to change without prior notice because of local circumstances or events beyond Contiki’s control. 

  • You’ll need to bring USD cash with you, as it’s the only way to pay for the Free Time Add-Ons on this trip. You’ll receive the cost of each option in your Welcome Email. Plus, we recommend you bring Visa and/or Master Card (American Express or Discover cards aren’t widely accepted).  

  • You’ll usually receive a 10% service charge on your restaurant bill. But tipping isn’t a requirement. Either way, if you’re pleased with your service, a tip will always be appreciated! We recommend tipping 12% of the total bill. 

  • Your Trip Manager brings the group together with all the info, fun facts and food recommendations you'll ever need. Plus, they’ll ensure everything runs smoothly and address any issues. They’ll be there with you throughout the trip and will be your go-to person if you need anything. They’ll also fill you in on the cultural and historical context of the places you visit with some informal talks when relevant. 

  • Drinking tap water isn’t recommend. So, please stick to bottled water (even when brushing your teeth). There will be plenty of opportunities to purchase bottled water during the trip. 

  • Parts of this trip go above 2800 metres (9200 feet) where it's common for some travellers to experience shortness of breath, nausea or light-headedness. While it's usually not severe in most cases, it’s always best to be prepared. That’s why we recommend that you carry your own medication and read a trusted health advisory for tips on how to combat altitude sickness. Plus, your Trip Managers will give you loads of helpful advice and before and during the trip.

  • If you’ve selected to do the Inca trail one-day hike, you’ll be walking 13 km or 8 miles on foot for about 6-7 hours. This is a moderate hike with the highest elevation being 2,720m / 8,924 ft - so there’s no need to do any prior training as long as you’re relatively fit and active.

    There’s no road access during the hike, so you’ll have to complete the trek in its entirety once you start. Not sure what to bring? Check out your guest document for all the info.

  • Most places use similar plugs to the US and Europe, but it’s a good idea to bring a circular two-prong adapter just in case. No voltage converter is needed for devices like phones and laptops, but you may need one for high-powered devices (e.g., hairdryers).

    • Safety: You’ll stay in expert-picked areas that are safe and convenient. While you’re on your own, it’s best to stick to safe areas, follow your gut & of course, use your common sense (avoid dark alleys, don’t leave valuables unattended, use crosswalks). 

    • Water & Food: It’s best to avoid drinking tap water in any of these countries. Stick to bottled water (even for brushing your teeth!). You’ll have plenty of opportunities to purchase them on your trip. 

    • Toilets: We’ll make a service stop along the way where you can use a toilet. But remember to toss used toilet paper in the trash, not the toilet (don’t wanna clog it up!) 

    • WiFi/Cell Service: WiFi is available at most accommodations and restaurants, but it can be slow. It’s best to check with your phone provider about international plans. 

  • Peru’s climate varies by region - subtropical desert on the coast (AKA la Costa), rainy and tropical in the Amazon forest (AKA la Selva), and temperate in the Andes (AKA la Sierra), with cold peaks. Summers are wet in the mountains and dry on the coast. Annual temperatures range from 83°F (28°C) in the rainforest to 45°F (7°C) in the highlands. 

    Argentina’s climate is wildly diverse - think warm, moderate, arid, and cold zones. Buenos Aires has hot, humid summers (up to 100°F) and mild winters (rarely below 40°F). Brazil? Equatorial in the north, tropical in the center, and subtropical down south. Rio stays warm year-round, with a hot, muggy season from December to March. Pack accordingly!  

  • Please check the latest travel info from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention if you're travelling to Argentina, Peru and Brazil. We also recommend that you consult your local health clinic or doctor for more details.

  • You can bring 1 carry-on + 1 suitcase or backpack.  

    Internal flights are included, and your Trip Manager will have your tickets ready. You’re allowed 1 checked bag and 1 carry-on (think: small backpack, handbag, or laptop bag). Your checked bag size needs to be within the airline's limits. And your carry-on can’t exceed 114 cm (45”). Got an overweight bag? You might have to pay a fee to the airline (usually US$ 25-100, so keep that in mind). 

    Train Option 

    On the train to Machu Picchu? You’re limited to 5kg of hand luggage. Don’t worry, we’ll hand you a duffle bag for the journey. Your main luggage and extras will be stored at the Cusco hotel. And don’t forget: you’ll need a passport (or a copy) to board the train!  

    One-Day Hike  

    For the hiking portion of this trip, we’ll sort you out with a duffle bag to pack your essentials. Just be sure to keep it all under 6kg (the train’s not a fan of big bags). On hike day, you’ll hop off the train at KM 104 and do your 13km trek with just your daypack. Meanwhile, your duffle rides the rails to Aguas Calientes and gets delivered straight to your hotel. Easy.  

    Once you’ve ticked Machu Picchu off your bucket list, the whole crew returns to Cusco. Here, you can hand over the duffel bag back to your Trip Manager. 

  • Pack light, but smart. Think: layers for all types of weather, comfy walking shoes, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), a daypack, any meds, a first aid kit, hand sanitizer, and even a circular two-prong power adapter. Don’t worry tho, your Trip Manager will send a full list of things you should pack before your trip starts. 

Dates & Prices

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We have pre-selected the best options based on your search, however please feel free to adjust them to suit your desires. Please note that changes here will affect availabilty, pricing and trip itinerary.


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2025
2026

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Ultimate South America with train to Machu Picchu (From Mar 2025)

$10,021
$10,815

Ultimate South America with Inca Trail Trek (From Mar 2025)

$10,482
$11,300

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Terms & Conditions

Trip Notes: 

  • ​Please note that airfare to and from your start/end destinations is not included in the cost of your trip. 
  • Call 1300 321 962 for great deals from Australia to & from all start/end cities for your selected itinerary. 
  • Internal flights as specified on individual trip itineraries are included as part of the trip price. 

Terms & Conditions: 

  • ​Prices listed are land only & do not include airfare to and from the start/end of the tour. 
  • Prices listed are per person, based on twin or multi-share. If you’re travelling solo, we can pair you with a same-sex roommate at no extra cost or you can upgrade to a single for an additional cost, subject to availability. 
  • For departure points and stay longer accommodation options call 1300 321 962 for more details. 
  • ​​'Exclusive Costco Member Price' is available upon member login.  
  • 'Price with Current Deals' reflects applicable promotions. Promotions and savings vary by itinerary, are not valid on all tours/departure dates and are subject to availability. All discounts are for new bookings only, subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Call or request a quote for complete details. 
  • ​​​Trip prices and information are correct at the time of the products going live, however are subject to confirmation - please confirm all details at time of quote and booking. 
  • Other conditions may apply.  
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