South America Revealed (Galapagos)

21 days
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
Additional images not provided by operator
4.6/5 Excellent
100+ reviews  
96%
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
preferred

USTOA

Group Tour
You’ll feel just like a local on this South American tour as you go from Rio's gorgeous beaches to vibrant capitals, national parks, and the Inca heart of Peru, learn to samba and mix the perfect caipirinha. Then let loose your inner explorer meeting giant tortoises, turtles and sea lions, cruising the Galápagos Islands.Please note that the flight between Lim...
19%
$7,556
From$6,143
See departure dates

Overview

Trip type
Group Tour
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Highlights

    • Buenos Aires: Visit a family-run gaucho ranch for an energizing event of food, drink, music, dance and horseback riding demonstrations. Kick off with a lunch of empanadas, salads, asado meat of sausages, chicken and beef and drinks followed by flan with dulce de leche for dessert. You’ll even learn how to grill the asado. Discoveries continue over a demonstration of gaucho´s skill with horses and a lively show. Take time to wander among the historic, 150-year-old building past the cows and horses before taking home your keepsake leather accessory gift typical of this region.
    • Lima: Visit a local market with Chef Ignacio and enjoy a special lunch at his cooking school.
    • Buenos Aires: Experience the beauty of the Tango and learn about its traditions.
    • Buenos Aires: Uncover San Antonio de Areco, the heart of the “gaucho” traditions in the “pampas” region. Walk around the small village’s cobblestoned streets appreciating its quaint historical centre. See the main square, the church, and meet some of the locals along the way. Also known as the ‘Cradle of Tradition’ the colonial town was founded over 280 years ago and is filled with old bars (“pulperías”) and artisan shops with over 30 silversmiths. Known as “platería criolla”, the traditional Argentinean silverworks include knives, jewellery and other traditional items.
    • Buenos Aires: Visit a gaucho painter’s studio to view his works, appreciate the diverse subjects of his paintings, learn the history of the gaucho town followed by a fascinating drawing demonstration.
    • Lima: You’re treated to a lesson on how to pour the perfect Pisco sour, Peru’s native drink. In the good hands of professional chef Ignacio, the results are sure to be delicious. Ignacio will explain the history of Pisco – a type pf wine, the typical Pisco Sour, and an internationally less known but locally more popular drink called “Chilcano”. This cocktail of pisco, lime juice, Ginger ale and bitters is a refreshing twist on the pisco sour that will have you eager to share the recipe with your friends.
    • Cusco: Enjoy the flavours of chicha, a Peruvian corn beer. Hear about how chicha is brewed by the local indigenous women and its history dating back to the time of the Incas as a favourite drink of the Andes. Learn about the two types of chicha, alcoholic sour chicha de jora made from fermented jora corn and the non-alcoholic, sweet chicha morada.
    • Rio de Janeiro: Journey high above Guanabara Bay first to Urca hill and then the top of Sugarloaf at 1,299 feet above sea level for views of Botafogo cove, Copacabana, and Guanabara Bay. Take in all the dramatic views with plenty of photos knowing you’re a part of history. This Cable Car linking Urca hill to Sugarloaf Mountain built in 1912 was the first Brazilian cable car and the third in the world. You’ll also learn the story of the name Sugarloaf, the most popular version saying that from the sixteenth to eighteenth centuries, at the peak of sugar cane production, the mounds of refined sugar resembled the shape of the mountain itself. A sweet story with a stunning view.
    • Corcovado: Climb into the clouds to the top of Corcovado Mountain to visit the iconic Christ the Redeemer. You’ll ride the Corcovado Railway, the first electrified railroad in Brazil, and an icon itself. The railway is actually older than the monument and even transported the pieces of the monument. The train has taken popes, kings, princes, presidents, artists, scientists - and now you - since its start in 1884. You’ll feel good about your travels too knowing that this electric train doesn’t pollute the surrounding Tijuca National Park. As you ascend 2,379 feet, consider the history of Christ the Redeemer built from 1926-1931, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, and one of the most famous Art Déco sculptures. Gaze out the window at the views of the Rio de Janeiro and, at the top, stand beneath the famous statue’s feet looking up to its top of 98 feet high.
    • Iguassu Falls: Join a Local Specialist who will guide your exploration of the Brazilian side of the falls in this massive park spanning the border between Argentina and Brazil. The region hosts a variety of wildlife including tapirs, giant anteaters, howler monkeys, ocelots, jaguars, caymans and 400 species of birds - so be on the lookout for that special photo-op. Given Iguassu’s support of extreme habitats and diverse species, it’s no wonder it is on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

What's this trip about?

    You’ll feel just like a local on this South American tour as you go from Rio's gorgeous beaches to vibrant capitals, national parks, and the Inca heart of Peru, learn to samba and mix the perfect caipirinha. Then let loose your inner explorer meeting giant tortoises, turtles and sea lions, cruising the Galápagos Islands.Please note that the flight between Lima and Quito is not included.

Details

Itinerary focusClassic Highlights
Group sizeGroup - max of 40 people
Age range6 years and up
Flights and transportN/A
Start CityRio De Janeiro
End CityQuito

Travel Themes

  • Cultural
  • Education / Learning

Destinations

Attractions

  • Rio de Janeiro

Activities

  • Culture
  • Historic sightseeing

Max Group Size

  • Max Group Size: 40

Trip includes

    • An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
    • Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
    • All porterage and restaurant gratuities
    • All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
    • Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals
    • Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras
    • Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing
    • Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
    • Tickets for a ride aboard the Vistadome train to Machu Picchu
    • A Trafalgar bonus all Intra-Air Flights: Rio de Janeiro to Iguassu, Iguassu to Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires to Lima, Lima to Cusco and Cusco to Lima, including porter service at all airports
    • Optional Experiences and free time
    • On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized.

Itinerary

Travel Map

Day 1: Welcome to Rio de Janeiro

Immerse yourself in the tropical allure of Rio de Janeiro - your launch pad to a South American exploration of capital cities and ancient cultures. Meet your local host on arrival and transfer to your hotel offering superb views of Copacabana Beach. This evening, we’l...

Day 2: Enjoy Rio de Janeiro and Sugarloaf Mountain

Ease into your morning Rio-style before joining your Travel Director to delve into the captivating contrasts of Brazil’s cidade maravilhosa (marvelous city). See the 18th-century Carioca Aqueduct, the colonial Candelaria church and the home of the Rio Carnival, the Sa...

Day 3: Uncover the Sights and Flavors of Rio de Janeiro

The iconic Christ the Redeemer beckons this morning as we journey by cogwheel train to the summit of Corcovado for impressive panoramic views. Returning to the city, we visit the shores of Copacabana and Ipanema, spending the rest of the day at leisure to watch Rio’s ...

Day 4: Experience the Rhythms of Rio de Janeiro and off to Iguassu Falls Dive Into Culture

Journey into some of South America’s most beautiful natural landscapes taking a flight from Rio to Iguassu Falls, the UNESCO-listed magnificent falls that straddle the borders of Brazil, Argentina and Paraguay. Explore the Brazilian side of Iguassu Falls, 'Big Waters'...

Day 5: Iguassu National Park Argentinian side with local specialist

Get a different perspective of grandeur on the Argentinian side of the falls at the Devil's throat. Your MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience finds you paying a visit to the Guarani community of Fortín M'bororé who open their doors to reveal the secrets of the jungle, their...

Day 6: Iguassu Falls - Buenos Aires

Take a flight from Iguassu Falls to Buenos Aires, the capital of Argentina. Check into your hotel located in the heart of the cultural center at the historic Plaza San Martin and, with the rest of the day free, perhaps take a stroll around this upscale part of the cit...

Day 7: Buenos Aires Sightseeing and at Leisure

Take in the sights of Buenos Aires on a City Tour to the pink palace, cathedral and La Boca neighborhood. The rest of the day is free for you to relax and explore this exciting city on your own or join one of our tempting optionals. Head to the northern outskirts of B...

Day 8: Buenos Aires Your Way Connect with Locals Dive Into Culture Make Travel Matter

Leave Buenos Aires to San Antonio de Areco, the heart of the gaucho traditions in the pampas region, for a tour along its quaint streets lined with silversmiths. Take part in a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience visiting a local project of the Local Association for disabl...

Day 9: Venture to Lima, the City of Kings

The Capital of the New World extends a warm welcome on your epic voyage through the iconic and unexpected highlights of Peru. Meet your local host on arrival and transfer to your hotel in the upscale shopping district of Miraflores. This evening, you’ll join your Travel Director and fellow travelers for dinner at 6 p.m.

Iberostar Hotel Lima

Breakfast, Welcome Reception

Day 10: Savor the Flavors of Lima Connect with Locals

Francisco Pizarro’s 'City of Kings' is ours to explore this morning as we discover the colonial heritage of Lima’s UNESCO-listed Historic Center with our Local Specialist. Admire the ornate baroque façades of the Church of San Francisco and discover its hidden catacom...

Day 11: Journey to the Sacred Valley Connect with Locals Make Travel Matter Stays With Stories

Board a morning flight to Cusco and the Sacred Valley. MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® when you visit Manos de la Comunidad, a Weaving Center where you’ll uncover the traditions of the Sacred Valley, called “lindaje.” Then continue to a former 18th century colonial-style monaster...

Day 12: Journey to Machu Picchu

The Sacred Valley reveals its mysteries today as we encounter the remains of the mighty Inca empire. Our first stop this morning is the famous Inca hilltop fortress, Ollantaytambo, built from massive blocks of stone. We board the Vistadome train (light snack included)...

Day 13: Continue in Machu Picchu then Return to Cusco Dive Into Culture

We return to Machu Picchu this morning with an opportunity to explore this mythical fortress on our own terms. Then it’s off to Cusco, stopping en route at a local chicheria for a taste of chicha. Dive Into Culture and learn how this Peruvian corn beer is made by local women.

Novotel Cusco

Breakfast

Day 14: Step Back in Time in Cusco

Embark on a sightseeing tour of the sacred city of Cusco this morning with your Local Specialist, admiring the 16th century Spanish colonial buildings that stand on the foundations of former Inca temples and palaces. See the baroque Cathedral on the Plaza de Armas and...

Day 15: Onward to Lima

A leisurely start to our day sees us return to Lima late this morning. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure, join your Local Specialist at the Larco Museum for an evening exploration of its collection of pre-Columbian art. We’ll indulge in a memorable Farewell Dinner in the museum’s garden.

Iberostar Hotel Lima

Breakfast, Farewell Dinner

Day 16: Travel to Quito

Transfer to the airport for your onward flight to Ecuador (flight not included in holiday price). Enjoy a warm welcome in Quito where you will be greeted at the airport and taken to your hotel.

Sheraton

Breakfast

Day 17: Uncover Historic Quito

Visit the historical center of Quito, which was the first place in the world to be designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and travel to the 'Middle of the World' to stand on the Equator. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

Sheraton

Breakfast

Day 18: Sea Lions and North Seymour Island

Discover a land that inspired Darwin to form his Theory of Natural Selection. On arrival at Baltra airport, transfer to the M/V Galápagos Legend. Set sail to North Seymour Island, an important spot to see magnificent frigatebirds, blue-footed boobies and sea lions.

M/V Galápagos Legend

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 19: Bartolome and Santiago Island

Our first destination today is Bartolome Island, hiking to its summit for soul stirring views, then enjoying snorkelling and an opportunity to see the famous Galapagos Penguins.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 20: Uncover San Cristobal Island

We journey to Pitt Point this morning, ascending to a high point on the steep volcanic tuff hill to see if we can spot all three of the booby species simultaneously. Cerro Brujo’s coral sand beach is our next destination, where we can connect with the resident sea lions or snorkel in the shadow of Witch’s Hill.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 21: Depart San Cristobal Island

Enjoy a first-hand encounter with the giant tortoises of La Galapaguera de Cerro Colorado, a tortoise reserve that protects the island’s tortoise population. Your Galápagos exhibition at its end, transfer to San Cristobal Airport for your return flight to Quito. Airport arrival time in Quito will be at 7 p.m.; please be aware when booking your flights.

Breakfast

Want a tailor-made trip instead?

Your trip, your way, planned by an expert:

  • You choose budget, destinations, activities, transport & lodging type
  • Expert designs the itinerary for you, and once approved, takes care of logistics
Design custom trip

Dates & Availability

Price From $6,143
Price per day$293
Last Updated: 11/4/2024
Departure Date
Finish Date
Shared Room
Single Room
Availability
17 Jan 2025
01 Feb 2025
$6,407
$7,463
available
14 Feb 2025
01 Mar 2025
$6,407
$7,463
available
07 Mar 2025
22 Mar 2025
$6,231
$7,387
available
14 Mar 2025
29 Mar 2025
$6,143
$7,199
onRequest
11 Apr 2025
01 May 2025
$10,771
$12,923
closed
25 Apr 2025
10 May 2025
$6,143
$7,199
available
09 May 2025
24 May 2025
$6,143
$7,199
available
16 May 2025
31 May 2025
$6,143
$7,199
available
06 Jun 2025
21 Jun 2025
$6,143
$7,199
available
27 Jun 2025
12 Jul 2025
$6,143
$7,199
available

Check current availability, prices, specials & more.

The total tour cost includes the tour price (regular or promotional) and the compulsory local payment. The promotional price is subject to change. Check directly with the operator for the latest price offer. The tour operator requires you to pay only the tour price to purchase your travel. The compulsory local payment will be paid when you join the trip. All prices are based on double, twin or triple share occupancy. Solo passengers will be accommodated in a double, twin or triple room according to availability with a passenger(s) of the same gender. Single supplement only needs to be paid if the passenger does not want to share and requests their own room. Discounts can only be applied at the time of booking and cannot be added at a later date, regardless of any changes made to the original booking.

Prices may vary due to local taxes and trip seasonality. Click "Request Info" to inquire directly with the tour operator for the final trip price.

Trafalgar Reviews & Ratings

4.6/5  Excellent
Excellent
34,479
Great
9,190
Average
2,748
Disappointing
838
Terrible
544
Write a Review

Other Trafalgar Reviews

T

Trusted Customer

Nov 2024

Written on

Wonders of Ancient Egypt

Had a great time, great guides.

T

Trusted Customer

Nov 2024

Written on

Splendors of Japan

Was very nice. Varied tour and *Personal information removed by Feefo* ...

T

Trusted Customer

Nov 2024

Written on

Great tour of Italy

Service from Costsaver was excellent- from *Personal information removed by Feefo*, our Travel Director, to *Personal information removed by Feefo*- our calm and saf...

Write a Review

Tour Operator

Trafalgar

preferred
View Profile

At Trafalgar, we passionately believe in the power of travel to broaden the mind and build bridges between people. By sharing with you the hidden places not mentioned in guidebooks, the local people you wouldn’t otherwise meet, and the traditions you may not have experienced by yourself, we ensure that you get the ‘insider’ view, an authentic and enhanced experience you simply could not have had on your own.

It is this dedication to taking our guests beyond the obvious sights that has helped us grow over the past 65 years into one of the most trusted and successful international guided vacation/holiday companies in the world. From Europe to the United States, South America to South Africa, and with the recent addition of Asia, we pride ourselves on uncovering the hidden gems, cultural highlights and not-to-be-missed attractions of the places you visit. We’ll help you delve deep into the heart of each city and capture the true essence of each new destination.

We are committed to establishing lasting relationships with our guests by exceeding their expectations the first time and every time, through consistently outstanding quality of service, experience and value.

We're proud to be the most globally awarded guided travel company. Every year, we win some of the most prestigious travel accolades around the world – from the Travel Globes to the Agents' Choice Awards. We've collected 46 major travel awards over the last five years alone, as well as the Gold Trusted Merchant Award from independent reviews provider Feefo.

 longdesc=

About the company:

As the world’s most awarded and loved travel company, Trafalgar unlocks the best of the world for every traveller. From the iconic sites to breaking bread with locals at private Be My Guest experiences, guests can be assured of a dream holiday without the stress of 'what ifs'. Committed to Make Travel Matter, Trafalgar aims to make a positive impact on locals, communities and wildlife visited, and the planet we call home. With tried and tested tours, created by local travel experts in destination and enjoyed by more than 5million happy guests, Trafalgar’s proud to be recognised by its Feefo Platinum Trusted Service Award.

Trafalgar is part of the family-owned and run The Travel Corporation (TTC), driven by service for over one hundred years.

 

Why we love this operator
Their travelers enjoy 24/7 travel expertise and dedicated service throughout the trips - everything is taken care of.
What they’re known for
Tours and experiences that include everything from the iconic sites to breaking bread with locals, guided by expert travel directors.

Associations

About Travelstride

Find your perfect trip

An epic selection of pre-planned trips on every continent, for every style. Thousands of itineraries from over 1,000 trusted travel companies.

Save time

Use simple search and comparison tools to easily find the best trip. Don't sweat the logistics — travel providers plan for you.

Save money

Book directly with the operator. See inclusive packages for the best values, and get access to amazing deals.

Travel confidently

Read unbiased user reviews, pick the operator that suits your needs, and connect with them directly.

Logistics

Accommodation

  • Windsor Excelsior Copacabana
  • Hotel Mercure
  • Alvear Art Hotel
  • Iberostar Hotel Lima
  • Sonesta Posadas del Inca Yucay
  • El MaPi
  • Novotel Cusco
  • Sheraton
  • M/V Galápagos Legend
Travel Insurance
We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance alongside your travel package to safeguard against unforeseen circumstances such as medical expenses, trip cancellations, and other contingencies. It offers you peace of mind and ensures you are prepared for unexpected events that may occur before or during your journey
Visa requirements
Visa requirements vary depending on your country of origin and your country of destination. It is your responsibility to familiarize yourself with the relevant requirements. For a handy tool that can help you quickly find the requirements, please visit this link .
Meals Included
  • 2 Welcome Reception (WR)
  • 20 Breakfast (B)
  • 2 Regional Dinner (RD)
  • 6 Lunch (L)
  • 5 Dinner (D)
  • 1 Farewell Dinner (FD)
Age Requirements
6 years and up
Additional Information
Trip ID
trafalgar-LSRECN19

Become a member

(it's free)
  • Save up to $700 per person
  • Access members-only specials
  • Personalize trip recommendations
Sign up and save
Top Tour Companies on Travelstride:
All 1,600+ companies >