South America Discovery with Puno and Lake Titicaca Optional Extension
South America Discovery with Puno and Lake Titicaca Optional Extension
South America Discovery with Puno and Lake Titicaca Optional Extension
17 Days Starting in Rio De Janeiro, Brazil and ending in Lima, Peru
Visiting: Rio de Janeiro, Iguassu Falls, Buenos Aires, Lima, Cusco, Machu Picchu, Puno, Lake Titicaca
Tour operator:
Tour code:
VSLTN26
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the vibrant landscapes and cultures of South America with the "South America Discovery with Puno and Lake Titicaca Optional Extension" tour. This adventure takes you through Brazil, Argentina, and Peru, starting in the lively city of Rio de Janeiro, where you can explore iconic beaches and the majestic Christ the Redeemer. Experience the awe-inspiring Iguassu Falls, straddling the border of Brazil and Argentina, before immersing yourself in the tango-infused charm of Buenos Aires. In Peru, discover the historical wonders of Lima, the Sacred Valley, and the breathtaking Machu Picchu. Extend your journey to the serene Lake Titicaca, visiting the unique Uros Islands and the Island of Taquile. With expert guides, comfortable accommodations, and a variety of included meals, this tour offers a rich tapestry of experiences, from bustling cities to serene natural wonders.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive Rio De Janeiro (3 Nights)
Location: Rio de Janeiro
Accommodation: Windsor Plaza Copacabana
Accommodation Name: Windsor Plaza 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: Windsor Plaza Copacabana
Accommodation Name: Windsor Plaza Copacabana
Meals Included: 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 meter 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 ‘Marvelous 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: Windsor Plaza Copacabana
Accommodation Name: Windsor Plaza Copacabana
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 colorful 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
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 splendor, 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 Theater, Plaza de Mayo, Metropolitan Cathedral and San Telmo, the oldest district in the city. Finishing up in colorful and charming La Boca you’ll then have time to explore by yourself this afternoon.
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 choice 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 center. In the evening, opt to visit the colorful, 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. On the way to Sacred Valley, join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience during your visit to Chinchero Sunday market, still a very original market where you can find fruit and vegetable vendors as well as the occasional souvenir stall. Your guide will introduce you to some local produce such as potatoes, and if you wish, you can also taste some of the fruit. MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® as you learn about Chicha, a local drink made of corn and admire llamas and alpacas before making your way to the hotel.
Day 12: Machu Picchu Excursion
Location: Machu Picchu
Accommodation: Ava Valle Sagrado Spot
Accommodation Name: Ava Valle Sagrado Spot
Meals Included: Breakfast
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. Taste 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 Sacsayhuaman, 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: Cusco Sightseeing And Free Time
Location: Cusco
Accommodation: San Agustin Plaza
Accommodation Name: San Agustin Plaza
Meals Included: Breakfast
Kick off the final day of your tour joining for an optional experience. Head to Moray and Maras to see Incan farming and salt mining techniques at play or visit 17th century Piquillacta to view the pre-Incan citadel built by the Wari people. Another option is to indulge your sweet tooth with a visit to the Choco Museum to learn more about the Peruvian chocolate making process. In town, tour Cusco after dark learning the secrets of this ancient city or experience Cusco off the beaten track visiting tiny stores and cemeteries with plenty of personal stories along the way. If you’re looking for an all-day adventure, join a trip to Rainbow Mountain where you’ll take a rigorous hike through breathtaking scenery of mountains and lakes.
Day 15: Cusco – Julica – Puno And Lake Titicaca (2 Nights)
Location: Puno
Accommodation: Taypikala Lago
Accommodation Name: Taypikala Lago
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Having made the excellent choice to extend your stay in Peru, you'll board a flight this morning bound for busy Juliaca. Driving through the rolling hills of the Largo Umayo peninsula you'll pay a visit to the Sillustani Burial Towers before arriving into Puno, which is nestled on the 'Ocean of the Andes'. Explore the regal plaza and charming, crumbling buildings and take a first good look at Lake Titicaca, the largest lake in South America and the highest navigable body of water in the world.
Day 16: Lake Titicaca Sightseeing
Location: Lake Titicaca
Accommodation: Taypikala Lago
Accommodation Name: Taypikala Lago
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® when you venture out onto the vast, rolling waters of Lake Titicaca this morning, believed by the Andeans to be the 'birthplace of the sun'. Make your way to the Uros Islands, a unique set of floating islands that are home to the Uros people, who live just as their ancestors have done for hundreds of years and rely on the buoyant Totora reeds to provide them with housing, boats, and even food. Visit the Island of Taquile, where the red colored sands contrast spectacularly with the glistening blue of the lake, to learn more about the stone work and weaving cultures of the island. Enjoy a fresh fish lunch at a local restaurant, before heading back to Puno for the evening.
Day 17: Puno And Lake Titicaca – Juliaca – Depart Lima
Location: Puno
Meals Included: Breakfast
Taking one final look a that gorgeous expanse of blue, you'll leave Puno this morning as you travel back to Juliaca, to catch your included flight to Lima. Departure times for the included flight from Juliaca to Lima vary. Please book international flight from Lima on departure day at earliest from 6pm onwards. Whether heading home immediately or spending a few extra days in Peru's bustling capital city, we'll look forward to meeting you again some time soon!
What's Included
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All internal air included in trip cost
All internal flights during the tour are included in the trip cost.
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An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
The tour includes the services of an expert Travel Director and a professional driver.
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Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
Accommodation is provided in carefully selected and trusted hotels.
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Many meals included
The tour includes a variety of meals throughout the trip.
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Audio Headsets provided throughout your holiday
Audio headsets are provided to enhance your sightseeing experiences.
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Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi
Travel in a luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi available in most countries.
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City orientation tours
Orientation tours of the cities visited are included.
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Extensive variety of Choice Experiences
The tour offers a wide range of choice experiences.
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On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized
If necessary, hotels of a similar standard and location may be used.
What's Not Included
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Optional experiences
Optional experiences and activities are not included in the tour cost.
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Personal expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
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Travel insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.
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International flights
International flights to and from the starting and ending points of the tour are not included.
Mode of Transport
Travel in style with luxury air-conditioned coaches equipped with Wi-Fi, and enjoy the convenience of all internal flights included in the trip cost, ensuring seamless transitions between destinations like Rio de Janeiro, Iguassu Falls, Buenos Aires, Lima, Cusco, and Puno.
Accommodation
Stay in carefully selected hotels such as the Windsor Plaza Copacabana in Rio, Viale Cataratas Hotel near Iguassu Falls, NH City in Buenos Aires, Hilton Garden Inn Lima, Ava Valle Sagrado Spot in the Sacred Valley, and San Agustin Plaza in Cusco, ensuring comfort and convenience throughout your journey.
Dining Summary
- 16 Breakfast (B)
- 4 Dinner (D)
- 2 Lunch (L)
Essentials
- Explore iconic sights such as Copacabana and Ipanema Beaches, Christ the Redeemer and the stunning Tijuca Forest from your cogwheel train
- Iguassu Falls: Step out onto catwalks along the world's widest cascading waterfalls and be awed by Devil's Throat before boarding your jungle train through the sub-tropical Iguassu National Park.
- Discover Recoleta Cemetery, the Plaza de Mayo and 9 de Julio Avenue, the widest avenue in the world before being whisked away to your dinner and Tango show, where you travel back to the glory days of this colorful city
- Explore the "City of the Kings" and see the Cathedral, Government Palace, Archbishop's Palace, City Hall and visit San Francisco Monastery, famous for its catacombs
- Visit the famous Pisac Market
- Journey to the marvelous citadel of Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World
- Explore Copacabana, Ipanema and Christ the Redeemer
- Visit the world's widest cascading waterfalls and see Devil's Throat
- Discover Recoleta Cemetery, the Plaza de Mayo and 9 de Julio Avenue, the widest avenue in the world
- Journey to one of the New Seven Wonders of the World
- Visit the famous Pisac Market
- Discover Sacsayhuaman, Coricancha and the famous San Pedro market before enjoying a magical evening featuring an entertaining folklore show
Check out our Q&As
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What unique experiences can I expect at Iguassu Falls?
At Iguassu Falls, you will visit the Brazilian side of the falls, including the Devil's Throat, the tallest and most impressive waterfall. You can also opt for an open-air tram ride through the jungle to the Macuco Falls, where you can board a custom-designed inflatable motorboat for a high-intensity ride to the base of the falls. Alternatively, you can visit a bird park to spot over 150 different species of birds.
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What activities are available during the free time in Buenos Aires?
During your free time in Buenos Aires, you can visit a working ranch to learn about gaucho culture, enjoy folk music, traditional dances, and a BBQ lunch. You can also explore the Tigre Delta, visit 'El Querandi' for a wine tasting, participate in an Argentinean Culinary Experience, or take a tango lesson.
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What can I expect during the Machu Picchu excursion?
During the Machu Picchu excursion, you will travel to Ollantaytambo to board a train to Aguas Calientes, then take a shuttle to Machu Picchu. You will have time to explore the vast complex of ruins and enjoy the breathtaking views of this ancient city above the clouds.
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What cultural experiences are included in the Sacred Valley visit?
In the Sacred Valley, you will visit the Chinchero Sunday market to learn about local produce and taste Chicha, a local drink. You will also visit a women-owned empanada workshop in Pisaq to learn how to make empanadas and enjoy them for lunch. Additionally, you will explore the fortress of Sacsayhuaman and visit Coricancha, the Temple of the Sun.
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What is the significance of Lake Titicaca in the tour?
Lake Titicaca is significant as it is believed by the Andeans to be the 'birthplace of the sun.' You will visit the Uros Islands, where the Uros people live traditionally, and the Island of Taquile to learn about local stonework and weaving cultures. A fresh fish lunch at a local restaurant is also included.
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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