Itinerary Highlights
- Learn about the Peruvian history in Lima
- Explore the vibrant markets and ancient ruins of the Sacred Valley
- See the magnificent structure of Machu Picchu
- Visit the Brazilian and Argentinian sides of Iguazu Falls
What's Included
- Accommodation Throughout
- International Flights
Peter
Travel Specialist
Combining unforgettable highlights from two of Latin America’s most fascinating countries, this is a tour that will allow you to dive into the culture, history and adventure of Peru and Brazil.
On the way you’ll be taken to some of the world’s most iconic sights – including Machu Picchu, Lima, Rio de Janeiro and the magnificent Iguazu Falls. Learn the history of the Inca Empire, sunbathe on Copacabana Beach and take in the breath-taking views of Sugarloaf Mountain, Christ the Redeemer and the Sacred Valley.
During the tour you will be accommodated in some of Peru and Brazil’s most charming hotels, making this a luxurious journey through some ‘must-visit’ locations. You will ascend the Peruvian highlands by train, before wandering the majestic ancient citadel of Machu Picchu.
Discover the Sacred Valley, with its rustic villages, spectacular landscapes and ancient history. In Brazil, be awed by the Iguazu Falls – a famous natural spectacle that must be seen to be believed. Then, finish with an exploration of Rio de Janeiro, an exciting city full of culture and adventure.
Itinerary
Day 1 UK - Lima
Arrive early evening to the lively city of Lima and the upmarket neighbourhood of Miraflores. Lima is a great gateway to the charms of Peru, with a variety cultural attractions to explore. Take in the views by the dramatic clifftop and over the coastal path. Famous sites such as the Parque de Amor (Park of Love) and the Larcomar shopping centre, Lima’s premier entertainment complex, are within walking distance of your hotel.
Day 2 Lima
The vibrant city is full of highlights. Learn all about Peruvian history and the local culture at one of the city’s excellent museums; the Larco Museum is a particular highlight, showing over 3,000 years’ worth of artefacts. The city’s Plaza de Armas (main square) is edged by impressive buildings, including City Hall, the Archbishop’s Palace and the cathedral. Today you will visit Iglesia de Santo Domingo, a church and convent housed in a beautiful pink building.
Staying at
Courtyard by Marriott, Miraflores
Day 3 Lima – Sacred Valley
Today you will start your journey across Peru, making your way towards the mountains. The Sacred Valley is an excellent stop on your journey to help with acclimatisation to the Peruvian altitude. This was an important area for the Incas, and there are many historical relics and ruins to explore. The valley is beautifully verdant and home to charming villages and excellent views.
Day 4 Sacred Valley
The valley hosts many kinds of activities, and you can choose to explore the vibrant markets and ancient ruins, take a trek through the lush forests or enjoy some exhilarating white-water rafting. Nearby, Maras is home to a vast patchwork of around 3,000 salt pans, and makes for a striking sight, while Moray’s majestic circular ruins are a unique feature. The charming village of Ollantaytambo has narrow cobbled roads, old-world buildings alongside several fascinating Inca sites.
Staying at
Sol y Luna
Day 5 Sacred Valley – Machu Picchu
Today you will continue your Peruvian adventure by rail, gliding through picturesque alpine scenery on your way towards Machu Picchu, a landmark prominently featured on most travel bucket lists. Today you will learn about the story behind the construction, abandonment and re-discovery of the ancient fortress, and have a chance to explore the magnificent structure. Tonight you will stay at Casa del Sol, a lovely boutique hotel with a prime location and cosy interiors.
Day 6 Machu Picchu – Cuzco
This morning, explore Machu Picchu at leisure, taking time to discover the many different views from around the citadel. Early risers will get a picturesque view of the sunrise, and photo opportunities abound. Aguas Calientes is a small town deep in the gorge of a valley, and is a lovely opportunity for some souvenir shopping and relaxation before the next leg of your trip. Your journey continues towards the city of Cuzco, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Day 7 Cuzco
Take in iconic sites like the Koricancha Temple. The temple was once the most sacred Inca site, but was mostly destroyed by the Spanish empire; a cathedral was built over the ruins of the temple, but several earthquakes destroyed the building, leaving the ancient Incan stonework of the foundations intact. Sacsayhuaman is an imposing fortress that overlooks Cuzco. The magnificent structure is believed to have functioned as a gigantic solar calendar during the times of the Incan empire.
Staying at
Aranwa Cuzco
Day 8 Cuzco – Iguazu Falls
Today you will start the Brazilian portion of your trip, arriving at Iguazu Falls in the late afternoon. One of South America’s most spectacular landmarks, the falls are sandwiched between the Brazilian and Argentinian borders with lush, dense rainforest on either side. A gargantuan collection of 275 individual cascades, the impressive roar of the Iguazu Falls is unforgettable.
Day 9 Iguazu Falls
Spend the day discovering the wonders of the falls. Explore the vast expanse of water by boat, or trek through the surround forest for breath-taking views. It’s well worth visiting both the Brazilian and Argentinian sides of the falls, to take in different perspectives and to truly experience the majesty of the spectacle. The falls played a major role in the 1986 film ‘The Mission’, and upon seeing them you’ll understand why; this is a uniquely magnificent sight, and one you won’t forget
Day 10 Iguazu Falls – Rio de Janeiro
Arrive in Rio de Janeiro and immediately fall in love with this famous city. A clash of culture, food, music and vibrant dance, it’s unlike anywhere else in the world. Take a walk along the curving Copacabana Beach and enjoy views to Sugarloaf Mountain. Of course, Rio is home to lots of gorgeous beaches, and for a quieter, more relaxing stretch on the sand try Leblon.
Day 11 Rio de Janeiro
Spend the day exploring this wonderful city by Jeep. Alight at the base of Corcovado mountain and take either the steps or train to the base of the Christ the Redeemer statue. Views from up near the iconic statue are sublime; take in some more panoramas over the city from Vista Chinesa, a Chinese pagoda structure situated in the lush Tijuca National Forest. Journey up to the top of Sugarloaf Mountain by cable car. Back on terra firma, take the time to visit the Botanical Gardens.
Staying at
Miramar Hotel by Windsor
Day 12 Rio de Janeiro – UK
Spend the morning making the most of Rio de Janeiro; maybe a last sunbathe on the beach, or a trip through the cultural sights of the city centre? We recommend the famous Confeitaria Colombo, a café that’s over a century old. For a really unforgettable ending to your Latin American adventure, why not go for a helicopter tour over Rio, to take in the natural beauty of the city’s location. In the late afternoon, transfer to the airport for your flight back to the UK.
Would you like to speak to a South America expert?
Contact our Travel Specialists for a bespoke quote or some first-hand knowledge.
Christmas Eve: 9am - 3pm
New Years Eve: 9am - 3pm
25th Dec, 26th Dec & 1 Jan: CLOSED
Monday - Friday: 9am - 7:30pm
Saturday: 9am - 5pm
Sunday: 10am - 4pm
