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Peregrine Travel Centre

Premium Highlights of South America

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Premium Highlights of South America

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Description

Experience the diversity of wonders across Peru, Chile, Argentina and Brazil on a 24-day Premium journey. Be immersed in the ancient culture of the Incas, visit the Amazon Jungle and revel in the magnificent citadel ruins of Machu Picchu. Soak up the energy of Santiago and Buenos Aires’ lively neighbourhoods and sip some of the world’s best wine in Mendoza. At the border with Brazil, experience the magnificent might of Iguazu Falls, before finally arriving in one of the most beautiful cities in the world, Rio de Janeiro. With the guidance of passionate local leaders, you’ll find out South America dances to the beat of its own drum.

Trip Name
Premium Highlights of South America
Last Updated
1970-01-01
Days
24
Capacity
12
Highlights
  • Stay in three memorable Feature Stays – a private thatched cabana in the Amazon rainforest, a forest-fringed retreat near Iguazu National Park and a 1920s boutique hotel in Valparaiso’s historic Cerro Alegre.
  • Elevate your adventure with memorable Signature Experiences including a tango show and asado dinner in Buenos Aires, rooftop pisco sours in Valparaiso and an insider’s day tour of the El Tigre Delta.
  • Take your taste buds on a trip with Signature Experiences, including an expert-led winery tour in Mendoza and homecooked pachamanca lunch in the Sacred Valley.
  • Get to know local culture during interactions with the Ese Eja and Chichubamba communities, and explore with expert guides in Cusco, Ollantaytambo and Machu Picchu.
  • Soak in unbeatable views of the Andes as you travel towards Machu Picchu on a 360° train. With high domed windows and an open-air observation carriage, you’ll be immersed in the incredible landscape.

Itinerary

ITINERARY CHANGES Our itineraries are updated regularly throughout the year based on customer feedback and to reflect the current situation in each destination. The information included in this Essential Trip Information may therefore differ from when you first booked your trip. It's important that you review this information prior to travel so that you have the latest updates. Due to weather, local conditions, transport schedules, public holidays, political unrest or other factors, further changes may be necessary to your itinerary once in-country. Your group leader or local representative will keep you up to date with any such changes once your trip is underway and has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if deemed necessary due to safety concerns. , OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES A selection of optional activities that have been popular with past travellers are listed in the day-to-day itinerary. This isn't an exhaustive list and should be used as a guide only for some of what might be available. Prices are approximate, are for entrance fees only, and don’t include transport to and from the sites or local guides unless indicated. All activities are subject to availability, and maybe on a join-in basis. It may not be possible to do all the activities listed in the time available at each destination, so some pre-planning for what you are most interested in is advised. When it's recommended that travellers pre-book these activities, look for a note in the Special Information section of the day-to-day itinerary. For most, they can either be organised independently on the day, or let your group leader or local representative know you are interested at the Welcome Meeting and they can assist. Where activities are considered medium or high risk, we work with operators whose safety and credentials we have sighted and assessed. Although it is possible that you may find the same activity cheaper with another operator on the ground, we cannot vouch for the safety or quality of that operator. Medium and high-risk activities not listed above have not been assessed by us and as such our staff and group leader or local representative are unable to assist you with organising these activities. Activities that contravene our Responsible Travel policies are also not listed. Please remember that the decision to partake in any activity not listed is at your own discretion and risk., DEMONSTRATIONS & STRIKES: Demonstrations and protests, often in response to local labour or social issues, occur regularly in Peru. National strikes can be called at short notice and can cause disruption to road networks leading to inevitable itinerary changes. We will do everything possible for these changes to be at little or no extra cost; however in such circumstances we find that travellers may need to use their contingency funds to cover the costs of itinerary changes.

Day 1 - Lima
Bienvenido! Welcome to Peru! Your adventure begins in Lima, where you’ll be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel for a welcome meeting at 2 pm. After, head out on a downtown walking tour with your leader, admiring Plaza Mayor and visiting the eerie catacombs of Saint Francis Monastery. Continue away from the tourist trail to Alameda de Chabuca Granda – a local favourite – and sample sweet treats like Peruvian doughnuts and mazamorra morada. Tonight, have dinner at one of the city’s best restaurants, where traditional Peruvian dishes are served with modern twists in a one-of-a-kind setting.
Day 2 - Amazon Jungle
Today, you’ll catch a flight to Puerto Maldonado. When you arrive, take a bus to the port where you’ll board motorised canoes and head into the Amazon rainforest. Keep an eye out for macaws, herons, alligators and capybaras along the way. Here, you’ll find Inkaterra Hacienda Concepcion – your Feature Stay for the next two nights. Built in the heart of a 380-hectare private ecological reserve, this unique resort focuses on the conservation of local habitats and features 25 private cabanas plus an on-site team of expert local guides. Enjoy lunch at the lodge, then explore the Concepcion Trails with one of the guides. As darkness falls, you’ll hop on a boat for a twilight ride along the river, trying to spot caimans lurking on the riverbanks on conserving with local Amazonian ingredients at a local restaurant with your group.
Day 3 - Amazon Jungle
After breakfast, board a dug-out wooden canoe and glide across Lake Sandoval, keeping an eye out for potential wildlife sightings, like red howler monkeys, giant river otters and colourful macaws. After lunch, you might like to walk along the Inkaterra Canopy Walkway – a 344 m (1128.6 ft) network of suspension bridges that take you high above the forest floor to some of the best places to spot toucans, woodpeckers, monkeys and three-toed sloths. After, join your group for a short walk to a nearby lake, where you’ll board a boat to watch the sunset as it falls over the Amazon rainforest. Enjoy a cocktail and light bites on board before returning to the lodge for an optional spa experience and a group dinner. Later this evening, go for a night walk to discover the nocturnal activity in the surrounding area and maybe spot some animals you wouldn’t see during the day!
Day 4 - Cusco
This morning, travel back to Puerto Maldonado, then take a flight to Cusco – the former centre of the Inca Empire. Arrive in the early afternoon before heading out with your leader to discover what the city has to offer. Stop by the stunning Plaza de Armas – the heart of the city, flanked by ornate churches. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Cusco Cathedral, built on top of an Inca palace and one of the city’s greatest repositories of art. Here, you’ll meet with a local historian who will provide expert insight into the building’s art, architecture and history and the surrounding city. Visit the Coricancha Temple – once the most important temple in the Inca Empire. The evening is free for your own discoveries. Cusco offers no shortage of restaurants and as night falls, the city is swept up in a flurry of live music and late-night street food stalls.
Day 5 - Cusco
Today is free for you to explore at your own pace. Why not head to the San Pedro market, where you can practice your bargaining skills and take photos, then swing by the Plaza de Armas for another look at the cathedral. Speak to your leader about the optional cooking class at a local restaurant using fair-trade products, or take the half-day Inkilltambo trek, exploring an archaeologic site on the city’s outskirts. Maybe check out the fortress of Sacsayhuaman, where the massive stone blocks that form the walls provide an impressive picture of how greatly developed Inca engineering was.
Day 6 - Ollantaytambo
This morning, travel through the Sacred Valley to Ollantaytambo, passing maize crops and fertile terraces carved into the valley walls. Visit the AMA Restaurant in Urubamba – this cafe provides employment opportunities and job training for single mothers throughout the Sacred Valley. Enjoy a snack and learn how this inclusive enterprise focuses on economic growth, gender equality and the support of vulnerable communities. Then venture further into the Sacred Valley to meet the Willoq community and gain greater insight into the local lifestyle. Visit a local workshop where you’ll learn about traditional textile techniques that are used by the community – you’ll even have the chance to make your own bracelet with the local women. Sit down for a festive pachamanca lunch. Continue to Ollantaytambo – a magnificent example of Inca urban planning and the perfect warm-up for Machu Picchu. Explore Ollantaytambo’s archaeological site with an expert local guide who will discuss the evidence of the Incas’ engineering skills in the ruins of ancient aqueducts, irrigation canals, dams, terraces and centres of worship dedicated to Pachamama (Mother Earth).
Day 7 - Aguas Calientes
Today, travel from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes in style, boarding the Rail 360° train. High, domed windows offer unbelievable views of the Andes, allowing you to sit back comfortably and take it all in. The train also features an open-air observation carriage to completely immerse you in the remarkable landscape. Disembark the train in Aguas Calientes, drop your belongings at your hotel, then take a short bus ride up the winding road to Machu Picchu, where you’ll be joined by a guide who will take you through the ruins and tell you stories of its history. The true purpose behind Machu Picchu, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, may always be a mystery since no records of the complex exist. Most archaeologists, however, believe it to be the 15th-century headquarters of Emperor Pachacuti. Later, take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes.
Day 8 - Cusco
Rise before the sun and take the winding road back up to the incredible Machu Picchu. On your second visit, explore more of the extraordinary architecture of the temples, palaces and living quarters. Looking at Machu Picchu as it sits against a backdrop of forested mountains is a truly breathtaking experience. Its mortar-free design is particularly earthquake resistant, and the stones are so precisely cut that, to this day, not even a knife fits between them! Take the bus back to Aguas Calientes, then catch a train back to Ollantaytambo. From here, you’ll make the drive back to Cusco for the evening.
Day 9 - Cusco to Lima
In the afternoon, fly from Cusco to Lima. Next day morning, you'll depart Peru and head to Chile for the next stage of your adventure.
Day 10 - Santiago
Today, you'll take your next unaccompanied flight form Lima to Santiago. When you arrive, you'll be met at the airport and taken to your accommodation where you'll have another welcome meeting at 6 pm. If you arrive early, maybe head out and explore the Parque Forestal just steps from your front door. After your meeting, head out for dinner with your leader and group. From baked casserole to razor clams cooked in parmesan cheese, Chilean food is hearty, fresh and delicious.
Day 11 - Santiago
Get to know the city on a tour with a local guide who’s an expert on all things Santiago. Start in the artistic Lastarria district to explore the charming neighbourhoods, historical landmarks and vibrant public spaces. From here, you will walk to Santa Lucia Hill, where Santiago was founded, for panoramic views of the city. Next, pass by the La Moneda Palace, an ornate neoclassical building and now Chile’s presidential offices, on the way to Plaza de Armas, the city’s cultural heart. You will also visit Parque Forestal and Bellavista, a blend of natura street art and bohemian flair. Finish with lunch at Peumayen, a local restaurant focused on ancestral gastronomy, including locally and seasonally inspired Mapuche cuisine. The rest of the day is free for your own explorations.
Day 12 - Valparaiso
Enjoy a free morning in Santiago. Maybe visit the Mercado Central – Santiago’s celebrated fish market. Then, begin the journey to Valparaiso, stopping off for a wine tasting on the way in the Casablanca Valley. Sitting on a coastal plain between the capital and Valparaiso, Casablanca Valley is Chile’s fastest-growing wine region, with rich soil and a perfect climate for chardonnay and sauvignon blanc. Visit an organic winery, with a focus on sustainability and biodynamic viticulture, for a tour of the property and gardens – and, of course, a wine tasting paired with cheese and chocolate. Then continue to Valparaiso, known for its brightly hued houses that spread over the hills overlooking the ocean. Your Feature Stay hotel for the next two nights is a boutique hotel with just 20 rooms. Set in the historic area of Cerro Alegre, the 1920s manor house exudes the warm hospitality of a close friend’s elegant home.
Day 13 - Valparaiso
Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage centre in 2003, Valparaiso used to be South America’s busiest port before the opening of the Panama Canal. It has since transformed itself into Chile’s most creative city, which you’ll learn more about on your locally guided walking tour today. The hills of Cerro Concepcion and Cerro Alegre are dotted with coloured houses, cobbled streets, galleries, restaurants and shops. Later, visit the Museum of Fine Arts, housed in a beautiful Art Nouveau chalet. This evening, head to the rooftop bar of your hotel and enjoy some seasonal local snacks and an introduction to pisco – Chile’s national spirit, which is deeply tied to the country’s cultural identity.
Day 14 - Mendoza
Depart Valparaiso and head back to Santiago to catch an international flight to Mendoza. As your plane crosses the Andes, you might catch a glimpse of Mount Aconcagua – the highest mountain in the Americas at 6962 m (22,841 ft) above sea level. In Mendoza, get to know the lively city on a gentle stroll along its wide, lively streets with your local leader. Technically a desert city, the extensive irrigation system here means Mendoza is remarkably green. Check out the city’s tree-lined spaces – from the sprawling Parque San Martin to Plaza Espana – and get a taste of local life along the bustling street, Peatonal Sarmiento. Back at your accommodation, roll up your sleeves and get down to empanada-making. A professional chef will lead you through the process, then you’ll all sit down for a dinner with wine pairings. It’s a fun, communal experience in the comfort of your hotel, so you can relax with your group and share stories of your trip so far.
Day 15 - Mendoza
Mendoza is Argentina’s most significant grape-growing region, producing nearly three-quarters of the country’s wine. The climate produces an excellent variety of grapes, with the region’s signature being Malbec. Today, you’ll get to experience this internationally renowned wine at its source during tours and tastings at three world-class and innovative wineries, each with its own distinct style and flavour. Meet with a local wine expert and gain inside knowledge on the varieties of grapes and different production methods used at each winery, and sample award-winning bottles just as spectacular as the surrounding Andes. After the tastings, settle in for a special closed-door gourmet lunch at one of the wineries. Enjoy several courses paired with wines carefully selected to bring out the flavours in the wonderful food. In the evening, maybe test your palate by attempting to pair the perfect wine with an authentic Argentine asado (barbecue-style food).
Day 16 - Buenos Aires
Today, fly from Mendoza to Buenos Aires and then spend the afternoon soaking up the Argentine capital’s mix of European and Latin culture on an orientation walk with your leader around the fashionable neighbourhood of Palermo. Palermo is a lively area of the city known for fashion, design, green spaces and a thriving dining and nightlife scene. If you look around, you’ll find traditional houses that have been converted into boutiques and bars, creating a bohemian vibe. The evening is free to explore at your own pace. Maybe visit a tango bar, attend a football match or find a great local eatery and set up shop.
Day 17 - Buenos Aires
Today, head out of town for a relaxing and enriching day in the northern suburbs of Buenos Aires for insight into life beyond the city limits. Your private guide and transportation will take you to the charming areas of San Isidro and Tigre, where you’ll explore a local artisan market and stroll along the scenic Paseo Victorica, a tree-lined promenade known for its stunning European architecture. Next, board a private boat to navigate the serene waterways of the Parana Delta, the third largest in the world and discover how local islanders – known as “islenos” – have transformed the swampy terrain into a unique and thriving community. We’ll stop on one of the islands for a homemade lunch featuring regional flavours. Here, swim, kayak or just sit back and soak in the beautiful island surroundings before cruising back to the mainland and returning to the city for a free evening.
Day 18 - Buenos Aires
Enjoy a free day for your own explorations of Buenos Aires. At 5 pm tonight, you’ll have a meeting at your hotel to welcome any new travellers joining you for the next part of your adventure. After, learn what local life looks like in Buenos Aires and head for a traditional Asado feast. Chat to your friendly host about all things Argentina while enjoying a fantastic spread of local favourites, including beef empanada, classic choripan (grilled chorizo sandwich), bruschetta topped with blood sausage, ojo de bife (ribeye steak) and plenty of local wine. If you’ve been swept up in the frenetic rhythm of Buenos Aires, maybe keep the evening going with a post-dinner tango show.
Day 19 - Buenos Aires
Discover the history, cultural influences and architectural heritage of Buenos Aires on a city tour with a local guide. Visit La Boca (famous for its brightly painted houses) and the original town hall and presidential palace known as the Pink House at Plaza de Mayo. Walk through the historic Monserrat and San Telmo neighbourhoods and pass by the facade of the Recoleta cemetery. Head to a mate tasting next and learn about the cultural significance of this traditional, caffeine-rich herbal beverage, Argentina’s national drink – and try it for yourself. You’ll also explore the seven-story Teatro Colon – one of the world’s finest opera houses, with marble staircases, stained-glass windows and gold leaf–adorned balconies. After an afternoon of free time, regroup in the evening for the El Ajibe tango show in the heart of San Telmo. Watch the fun live performance while you tuck into a three-course a la carte meal with malbec and chardonnay wines – if you’re feeling inspired, maybe try out a few moves on the dance floor!
Day 20 - Puerto Iguazu
This morning, transfer to the airport and board a flight to Puerto Iguazu in Argentina. You’ll spend the next two days exploring Iguazu Falls in depth, seeing them from both the Argentinian and Brazilian sides. Although you’re flying into Argentina, today will be spent exploring the Brazilian side of Iguazu Falls, which offers unforgettable panoramic views. At over 2 km (1.2 mi) in length, and made up of 275 waterfalls, Iguazu is taller than Niagara Falls and spans a wider area than Victoria Falls! For a bird’s-eye view, you can also opt to take an optional helicopter flight. Later, you’ll check into your Feature Stay – perfectly located near the entrance to Iguazu National Park and surrounded by native forest, this is your home for the next two nights. Enjoy some quiet downtime at the hotel’s pool and spa tonight or simply kick back with your camera roll.
Day 21 - Puerto Iguazu
Rise and shine for an early departure to the Argentinian side of the falls, where you can get close to this incredible feat of nature. There’s a system of boardwalks on the Argentinian side of the falls that allow you to access some incredible viewing points, or you could take an optional Zodiac ride beneath the cascades. This afternoon, you’ll have the opportunity to visit a Guarani community – one of the few remaining original inhabitants of the region. Meet with a member of the community to learn about the native tools used for daily activities. Your host will show you around and provide insight on the Guarani way of life while explaining how they have preserved their traditions on the edge of one of the world’s most popular attractions. Return to your hotel for a leisurely evening.
Day 22 - Rio de Janeiro
Today, take a flight from Foz do Iguacu to Rio de Janeiro. When you have settled into your hotel, join your leader on an orientation walk to get a feel for this lively city and learn a little about its layered history. The rest of the day is free to explore at your own pace. You might like to head down to the famous white sands of Copacabana and Ipanema beaches for a snapshot of local life. If you’d like to listen to some live music, head to Lapa and join the locals for some dancing.
Day 23 - Rio de Janeiro
Today, you’ll get to know the sights and sounds of Rio during a full-day tour with your leader. Visit Corcovado Mountain for expansive views over the city from the base of the Christ the Redeemer statue – one of the Seven Wonders of the World! Next, head to the creative neighbourhood of Santa Teresa and continue to the famous Selaron Steps to see Chilean artist Jorge Selaron’s famous artwork. After a stop for lunch, visit the iconic Sugarloaf Mountain and enjoy the views. Its name comes from the mountain’s resemblance to a traditional sugarloaf – a tall cone of refined sugar that was popular in the Caribbean and Brazil until the late 19th century. After your tour, take the afternoon to relax, hit the beach or explore further. This evening, maybe go for a final dinner with your group and toast to a brilliant adventure.
Day 24 - Rio de Janeiro
Your trip comes to an end after breakfast. If you’d like to extend your stay in Rio de Janeiro, please speak to your booking agent to arrange additional accommodation in advance.

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
29-08-202621-09-2026AUD $ 24,160-
31-08-202623-09-2026AUD $ 21,506-
12-09-202605-10-2026AUD $ 25,790-
19-09-202612-10-2026AUD $ 25,490-
03-10-202626-10-2026AUD $ 26,390-
10-10-202602-11-2026AUD $ 24,860-
17-10-202609-11-2026AUD $ 25,460-
24-10-202616-11-2026AUD $ 24,890-
07-11-202630-11-2026AUD $ 23,795-
14-11-202607-12-2026AUD $ 24,690-
28-11-202621-12-2026AUD $ 23,130-
05-12-202628-12-2026AUD $ 21,215-
02-01-202725-01-2027AUD $ 22,730-
23-01-202715-02-2027AUD $ 22,730-
06-03-202729-03-2027AUD $ 24,095-
20-03-202712-04-2027AUD $ 24,095-
27-03-202719-04-2027AUD $ 23,410-
04-04-202727-04-2027AUD $ 22,730-
25-04-202718-05-2027AUD $ 22,730-
01-05-202724-05-2027AUD $ 24,550-
22-05-202714-06-2027AUD $ 24,550-
05-06-202728-06-2027AUD $ 22,730-
11-07-202703-08-2027AUD $ 22,730-
14-08-202706-09-2027AUD $ 23,410-
28-08-202720-09-2027AUD $ 23,410-
04-09-202727-09-2027AUD $ 24,550-
11-09-202704-10-2027AUD $ 24,550-
18-09-202711-10-2027AUD $ 24,550-
02-10-202725-10-2027AUD $ 24,550-
09-10-202701-11-2027AUD $ 24,095-
16-10-202708-11-2027AUD $ 24,095-
23-10-202715-11-2027AUD $ 24,095-
30-10-202722-11-2027AUD $ 24,095-
13-11-202706-12-2027AUD $ 23,410-
27-11-202720-12-2027AUD $ 23,410-
11-12-202703-01-2028AUD $ 23,410-
01-01-202824-01-2028AUD $ 23,865-
22-01-202814-02-2028AUD $ 23,865-
04-03-202827-03-2028AUD $ 23,865-
18-03-202810-04-2028AUD $ 25,300-
25-03-202817-04-2028AUD $ 25,300-
02-04-202825-04-2028AUD $ 24,580-
23-04-202816-05-2028AUD $ 24,580-
29-04-202822-05-2028AUD $ 24,580-
20-05-202812-06-2028AUD $ 25,775-
03-06-202826-06-2028AUD $ 25,775-
09-07-202801-08-2028AUD $ 23,865-
12-08-202804-09-2028AUD $ 23,865-
26-08-202818-09-2028AUD $ 23,865-
02-09-202825-09-2028AUD $ 25,775-
09-09-202802-10-2028AUD $ 25,775-
16-09-202809-10-2028AUD $ 25,775-
30-09-202823-10-2028AUD $ 25,775-
07-10-202830-10-2028AUD $ 25,300-
14-10-202806-11-2028AUD $ 25,300-
21-10-202813-11-2028AUD $ 25,300-
28-10-202820-11-2028AUD $ 25,300-
11-11-202804-12-2028AUD $ 24,580-
25-11-202818-12-2028AUD $ 24,580-
09-12-202801-01-2029AUD $ 24,580-

Accommodation

Comfortable hotel (19 nights), Feature Stay (4 nights)

Transport

Plane, Train, Private vehicle, Boat

Map

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