22 day Grand Tour of South America

Day 1 - HOME/SANTIAGO

Planned flight: Melbourne: LA804 departing 12:00PM and arriving Santiago 11:00AM
Sydney: LA810 departing 11:10AM and arriving Santiago 10:00AM

This morning, we board our LATAM airways flight bound for Santiago (Chile). Upon arrival into Santiago, meet and greet with your local tour guide followed lunch and afterwards, take a cable car up San Cristobel hill for a beautiful panoramic view of the city. We then check into our hotel for a quick rest and freshen up before dinner.

Meals -As per flight / Lunch / Dinner

Overnight - Le Meridien Santiago Hotel or similar

Day 2 - SANTIAGO FULL DAY

This morning, enjoy a city tour that begins with a visit to the emblematic Main Square (Plaza de Armas), surrounded by architectural wonders such as the Cathedral and the Municipality. Next, we will move to Constitution Square (Plaza Constitución), home to the famous Palacio de la Moneda (Palace of the Mint), which is the presidential seat of the government. As we explore the city’s most charming streets and neighbourhoods which are rich in history and modernity, we will taste one of its typical flavours, such as “mote con huesillo,” a sweet and refreshing drink. In the afternoon, we will drive through the Paris-Londres area and enjoy the views of its streets and churches. Along the way, we will also observe Santiago's eastern part, where the exclusive neighbourhoods of Providencia, Las Condes, and Vitacura are located.

Meals -Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Overnight - Le Meridien Santiago Hotel or similar

Day 3 - SANTIAGO/CUZCO

Planned flight: LA2367 departing Santiago 2:40PM and arriving Cuzco 5:15PM

Before we board our flight to Cuzco, we’ll stop at Pueblito Los Dominicos, a charming artisan market known for its handcrafted goods and unique souvenirs, perfect for picking up a memento of our journey. After we arrive in Cuzco, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its rich Incan history and vibrant culture, your local guide will escort you to your hotel for check-in. Following some time to settle in, we’ll enjoy a delicious dinner featuring traditional Peruvian cuisine, giving you a taste of the region’s culinary delights.

Meals - Breakfast / Own arrangement Lunch / Dinner

Accommodation - Novotel Cusco or similar

Day 4 - CUZCO CITY TOUR/SACRED VALLEY

This charming day of Cusco offers us history, living culture and art. We will be able to appreciate how the Andean and Spanish cultures, as well as the past and the present, coexist in harmony in the Imperial City. We will arrive at the center to walk the halls of the San Pedro market, the oldest in the city. We will also visit the Koricancha temple, which during the Inca empire was a center of worship of the Sun and on which the Santo Domingo convent was later built as part of the evangelization process. To appreciate the greatness of the Incas, we will ascend to the monumental fortress of Sacsayhuaman, which with its enormous carved stone walls constitutes one of the best examples of Inca military architecture. We will tour the archaeological center of Kenko, a ceremonial place where the sun, the moon and the stars were worshiped. We couldn’t take a tour of the city without visiting the Cathedral, the most important temple in the city. It was built by the Spanish on top of the palace of the Inca Huiracoha. Its interior houses a wonderful collection of colonial art composed of goldsmith pieces and representative canvases of the Cusco School of Art. In the afternoon we drive to Sacred Valley region for overnight stay.

Meals - Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Accommodation - Casa Andina Premium Valle Sagrado Hotel or similar

Day 5 - SACRED VALLEY/MACHU PICCHU

This morning we will explore Ollantaytambo, a key site in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, where Manco Inca famously defeated the Spanish in 1537. Our walk will take us through cobblestone streets lined with adobe houses before we visit the archaeological complex, a centre for military, religious, and agricultural activities. Climbing the steep stone steps, we will admire the Temple of the Sun and learn about Inca astronomy and the impressive architecture that showcases their extraordinary construction skills. After lunch, we get ready to board the Vistadome train enroute for our Machu Picchu hotel for overnight and dinner.

* Note on this day you will pack a small overnight bag for Machu Picchu and your main luggage will be transported to our hotel in Cuzco upon returning.

Meals - Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Accommodation - El Mapi Hotel Machu Picchu by Inkaterra or similar

Day 6 - MACHU PICCHU/CUZCO

Get ready to experience one of the world’s most important landmarks: Machu Picchu! Our adventure begins with a train ride to Aguas Calientes, where we’ll enjoy stunning views of mountains, the Vilcanota river, and small towns before heading up to the iconic citadel. After exploring the ancient ruins and soaking in the breathtaking scenery, we’ll return to Aguas Calientes for lunch and free time to explore before boarding our Vistadome train back to Cuzco.

Meals - Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Accommodation - Novotel Cuzco or similar

Day 7 - CUZCO/RAINBOW MOUNTAIN/CUZCO

Vinicunca or the Rainbow Mountain is one of the most popular destinations in Cusco. We will leave the hotel early to head to Cusipata and from there we will travel to Phulawasipata, starting point of the uphill trail. The path will be the perfect excuse to enjoy the nature of the place: herds of llamas and alpacas, as well as the majestic Apu Ausangate, the highest snow-capped mountain in Cusco. We will also be able to talk with the community members of the area and see the potato fields that they work every day. Each client will then be transported by motorcycle up Vinicunca which is 5020 m above sea level. Arriving at the lookout, our reward is a stunning view of the colourful hillside. The minerals that make up the mountain soil give its slopes and summit curious shades of red, purple, green, yellow, and pink, among other colours. Make sure to have your camera ready! We then continue into the Red Valley, which will offer us beautiful mountainous landscapes that are dyed red in colour! From there we will head back to Phulawasipata to conclude this exciting day.

Meals - Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Accommodation - Novotel Cuzco or similar

Day 8 - CUZCO/PUERTO MALDONADO

Planned flight: LA2320 departing 11:55AM and arriving 12:55PM

Our adventure continues with our group taking a flight to Puerto Maldonado! Puerto Maldonado is Peru’s capital of biodiversity and gateway to the Amazon. You will be transported to Puerto Capitanía, the port where our riverboat will be waiting for us. We will sail across Rio Bajo Madre de Dios (Winding River) until arriving at our lodge, 30 km away from Puerto Maldonado City. On the way to the lodge, you can observe diverse animals such as the capybaras, caimans, water turtles, herons, cormorants, carrion birds and birds of prey. This afternoon after checking in, our guide will lead you along a signposted interpretive trail to Caiman Cocha, a lagoon where you can observe the black caiman and common caiman, top predators in the food chain. These caimans primarily feed on the rich aquatic fauna, particularly fish, inhabiting the pond.

** Please note order of activities for in Puerto Maldonado may be subject to change

Meals - Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Accommodation - EcoAmazonia Lodge hotel or similar (standard bungalow)

Day 9 - PUERTO MALDONADO

After breakfast, embark on a hike through the forest along well-maintained trails, crossing rivers to reach high-elevation and floodable forests, where you'll encounter a diverse range of flora and fauna. Arrive at the majestic Lake Apu Victor, surrounded by vast swamps and towering trees, and ascend to an Amazonian observation deck for panoramic views of the lake and sightings of various wildlife, including parrots, macaws, and caimans. In the afternoon, enjoy a guided tour of Monkey Island, home to an array of flora and primates like the black spider and capuchin monkeys, as well as colourful birds and other small mammals. Conclude your day with a breathtaking sunset in the jungle and return to the lodge for a delicious dinner.

** Please note order of activities for in Puerto Maldonado may be subject to change

Meals - Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Accommodation - EcoAmazonia Lodge hotel or similar (standard bungalow)

Day 10 - AMAZON JUNGLE

Wake up to the sounds of singing birds and howler monkeys before enjoying a hearty breakfast to energize you for the day's adventures. After breakfast, join a local guide for a hike through the virgin forest on well-preserved trails, crossing tributaries while marvelling at a diverse range of flora and fauna. Along the way to Lost Cocha, you may spot remarkable wildlife, including jaguars, tapirs, and various birds, as you explore the vital wetlands that represent a significant portion of the Eco Amazonia Lodge's protected area. At Lost Cocha, ascend an observation platform to take in the expansive scenery and, with some luck, see the impressive giant otter. After returning to the lodge for a delightful lunch, enjoy free time for photography, visit the botanical garden, and finish off the evening with a tasty dinner and a fun night at the bar and game room.

** Please note order of activities for in Puerto Maldonado may be subject to change

Meals - Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Accommodation - EcoAmazonia Lodge hotel or similar (standard bungalow)

Day 11 - PUERTO MALDONADO/LIMA

Planned flight: LA2024 departing 10:50AM and arriving 12:55PM

Early this morning, we make our way to Puerto Maldonado airport for our flight to Lima. Upon arrival, your local guide will take you on a Lima city tour. We will explore the two faces of Lima: its modern side (Miraflores and San Isidro) and also the historic essence in the UNESCO-listed historic centre. As we tour various districts, we’ll see how old and modern architecture coexist, with highlights including the Museum of Italian Art, the Palace of Justice, and the Main Square, surrounded by significant landmarks like the Government Palace and the Cathedral. We’ll visit the Convent of Santo Domingo, home to the relics of three Peruvian saints, before returning to modern Lima for stunning views of the Pacific Ocean from the iconic Park of Love and its famous sculpture by Víctor Delfín.

Meals - Breakfast / Lunch - own arrangement / Dinner

Accommodation - Jose Antonio Deluxe Hotel or similar

Day 12 - LIMA/ BUENOS AIRES

Planned flight: LA2369 departing 12:15PM and arriving 6:35PM

Today after breakfast, we board our flight to Buenos Aires and anticipate to arrive in the evening. Once we land, your local guide will be on hand to greet you and then take you to your hotel for check in and dinner.

Meals - Breakfast / Lunch - own arrangement / Dinner

Accommodation - Grand Brizzo hotel or similar

Day 13 - BUENOS AIRES

On an unforgettable route, we will live all the porteño magic. These few hours feature all the magic of Argentina's capital city. In this most complete overview of the Paris of South America we will visit the glamorous neighbourhoods of Recoleta and its most famous cemetery (entrances not included), Palermo, May Square and the Pink House, the Metropolitan Cathedral, the newest & trendiest Puerto Madero Area and many other emblematic buildings and palaces of unique architectural, historical, and cultural value. The visit would not be complete without the sights of the first settlements of the city of Buenos Aires. The pintoresque neighbourhood of San Telmo, residence to the porteño aristocracy until the end of the XIX century and where the renowned antiques market is held every Sunday; Caminito Street, in the colorful, Italian immigrants neighbourhood of La Boca. In the evening, enjoy a famous Tango Show and dinner at a typical Argentina restaurant.

Meals - Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Accommodation - Grand Brizzo hotel or similar

Day 14 - BUENOS AIRES RANCH DAY

Today, we tour one of the famous Gauchos Ranch enjoy their native dance shows. We also get the unique opportunity to experience horseback and carriage rides. For lunch, we try the famous Argentine wine together with their famous barbecued meats – their beef is one of the best in the world!

Meals - Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Accommodation - Grand Brizzo hotel or similar

Day 15 - BUENOS AIRES/IGUAZU FALLS

Planned flight: JA3142 departing Buenos Aires 10:57AM and arriving Iguazu at 12:45PM

After breakfast this morning, we will drive to the airport for our flight to Iguazu Falls. Upon arrival, meet and greet and then check into our hotel and explore the resort. At night we enjoy dinner together.

Meals - Breakfast / Lunch - own arrangement / Dinner

Accommodation - Mercure Iguazu or similar

Day 16 - IGUAZU FALLS (ARGENTINA SIDE) / IGUASSU (BRAZILIAN SIDE)

After breakfast, enjoy a tour to the Argentine side of the Iguazu Falls; where you’ll be able to witness the jungle’s beauty and have close views of this unforgettable section of the Iguazu River. At the park, an ecological train ride will take you to the impressive Devil’s Throat, the most important of all 275 waterfalls that comprise the Iguazu falls system. In the afternoon we cross over to the Brazilian side to check into our hotel with dinner.

**Please bring: Comfortable clothes and shoes, insect repellent, sunhat, sunscreen, sunglasses, small towel, pilot or raincoat and a light backpack for tours.

Meals - Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Accommodation - Sanma Hotel or similar

Day 17 - IGUASSU (BRAZIL SIDE)

This morning, we visit the Brazilian side of the falls. Enjoy a day with an escorted walking tour to the Brazilian side of the falls through path footbridges and belvederes. 275 cascades from a mile and a half long crescent where torrents of water plunge down to the basin 230 feet high all strategically placed to give the tourist the best view allowing you to see each and every fall. After a bit of rest in the afternoon, we regroup in the evening in which you will be amazed by the colour and rhythm of Brazil at a lively Samba show (Rafain Traditional Brazillian dinner and show).

Meals - Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Accommodation - Sanma Hotel or similar

Day 18 - IGUASSU / RIO DE JANIERO

Planned flight: LA3685 departing Iguassu at 2:20PM and arriving Rio De Janeiro at 4:10PM

Early morning pick up this morning as we make our way to Itaipu Dam for a tour of this hydroelectric plant which was a joint project built between Brazil and Paraguay. Afterwards, we then take a flight to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil! Upon arrival, we will have a meet and greet with our local guide who will assist us with check in and then dinner at the hotel.

Meals - Breakfast / Lunch - own arrangement / Dinner

Accommodation - Arena Leme Hotel or similar

Day 19 - RIO DE JANIERO

Today’s highlight is a visit to see Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf Mountain! The statue sits 700-metres above the city of Rio and has fascinated visitors and historians for nearly a hundred years. After lunch we will have a chance to pass by Rio's world famous beaches. Late afternoon, continue to Sugarloaf Mountain, ascending by cable car to a vantage where you can enjoy amazing views including the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue in the distance.

Meals - Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Accommodation - Arena Leme Hotel or similar

Day 20 - RIO DE JANEIRO/SANTIAGO

Planned flight: LA771 departing Rio de Janeiro 6:05PM and arriving Santiago 9:56PM

This morning after breakfast, our group will visit Tijuca Forest and Botanical Garden - one of the largest urban rainforests in the world, set on mountain slopes just west of Rio de Janeiro. With this tour, discover two of the city’s nature sites, starting with a guided walk through the Rio Botanical Gardens, including the Turtle Lake and Sensory Garden. Then, hike through Tijuca, learn more about the native plants and wildlife, and admire Taunay Waterfall. After lunch we head to the airport for our flight to Santiago.

Meals - Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner - own arrangement

Accommodation - N/A

Day 21 - SANTIAGO/HOME

Planned flight:
Melbourne: LA805 departing Santiago 12:45AM and arriving Melbourne next day 5:40AM
Sydney: LA809 departing 1:30AM and arriving Sydney 6:15AM

A few hours transit in Santiago and then we board our connecting midnight flight with LATAM bound for home.

Meals - As per flight

Day 22- ARRIVE HOME

Your overnight flight arrives back home early this morning and from all of us at Friendly Travel, we hope you thoroughly enjoyed your time in South America!

Meals - As per flight