The Complete South America featuring Peru & Machu Picchu

23 days
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USTOA

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Experience a journey from the heights of Machu Picchu, through the stunning natural beauty of Patagonia, and into cosmopolitan Rio de Janeiro.

Overview

Trip type
Operator does not provide
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Strenuous

Highlights

    • Savor a Brazilian churrascaria featuring an assortment of grilled meats.
    • Enjoy a cooking demonstration featuring Peruvian cuisine.
    • Take part in a lamb roast at a typical Patagonian estancia.
    • Learn centuries-old Andean textile methods at a living museum.
    • Discover the majestic nature of Iguazu Falls.
    • Embrace the art of tango at a live performance.
    • Spend an afternoon exploring the fabled ruins of Machu Picchu.
    • Behold the majestic Torres del Paine National Park.
    • Venture to Argentina's famous Perito Moreno Glacier.

What's this trip about?

    Experience a journey from the heights of Machu Picchu, through the stunning natural beauty of Patagonia, and into cosmopolitan Rio de Janeiro.

Details

Itinerary focusActive
Group sizeOperator does not provide
Age rangeNo age restrictions
Flights and transportN/A
Start CityOperator does not provide
End CityOperator does not provide

Travel Themes

  • 50 plus

Destinations

  • South America

Attractions

  • Aguas Calientes
  • Buenos Aires
  • Cusco
  • El Calafate
  • Lima
  • Machu Picchu
  • Ollantaytambo
  • Rio de Janeiro
  • Sacred Valley
  • Santiago

Itinerary

Travel Map

Day 1 Lima, Peru - Tour Begins

Welcome to Peru, one of the treasures of South America. The enduring cultures and breathtaking beauty of the Andes await. Travel through this intriguing land and visit some of the world’s most legendary sites, including Machu Picchu, the "Lost City of the Incas." Arrive late this evening in Lima, the "City of Kings."

Day 2 Lima

Today, it’s your choice! Discover Lima’s fascinating history during a colonial tour through the historic city center, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Admire the artwork at San Francisco Monastery and enter the catacombs; view the elegant Cathedral at Plaza de Armas and ...

Day 3 Lima - Cuzco - Sacred Valley of the Incas

Fly to Cuzco, in the heart of the Inca civilization. Journey through the Andes to the majestic Sacred Valley of the Incas, the agricultural center of their grand empire. Learn the centuries-old methods of spinning, dyeing and weaving traditional textiles during a visi...

Day 4 Sacred Valley of the Incas - Ollantaytambo - Sacred Valley of the Inca

This morning you visit the spectacular Ollantaytambo ruins, the only Incan settlement that has been continually inhabited since its inception. A uniquely terraced complex topped with carved stone panels, these ruins reflect ancient Incan architecture and heritage. The...

Day 5 Sacred Valley of the Incas - Machu Picchu

Climb aboard the Machu Picchu Vistadome train for breathtaking views through domed windows as you ride through the Andes to the “Lost City of the Incas.” Hidden by mountains and semi-tropical jungle, Machu Picchu is considered the most spectacular sight in South Ameri...

Day 6 Machu Picchu - Cuzco

With leisure time this morning you may take an optional tour to return to Machu Picchu and view the sunrise or explore the local markets in Aguas Calientes on your own. Return by Vistadome train to the Sacred Valley. This evening you may join an optional home hosted meal experience with a local Cuzco family.

Day 7 Cuzco

The morning is yours to relax or explore Cuzco on your own. Perhaps you’ll choose to take an optional tour to San Blas to peruse its artisan shops, or delve further into Peruvian cuisine at an optional cooking class. This afternoon, join your local guide and travel ab...

Day 8 Cuzco - Santiago, Chile

Say farewell to this mystical land of the Incas and fly south to cosmopolitan Santiago, Chile’s vibrant capital city and cultural hub.

Day 9 Santiago

Embark on a panoramic city tour featuring La Moneda Presidential Palace, Plaza de Armas, Santiago’s Cathedral and many other Neoclassical buildings. Peruse the shops and interact with handicraft vendors on the Paseo Ahumada pedestrian avenue. Savor the freshness of th...

Day 10 Santiago - Punta Arenas - Puerto Natales

Leave Santiago behind and fly to the region of Patagonia, the southern portion of Chile and Argentina that is filled with natural wonders. Arrive in Punta Arenas, built along the Strait of Magellan. Take in the stunning scenery before heading to Puerto Natales, the stepping off point to Chile’s Torres del Paine National Park.

Day 11 Puerto Natales - Torres del Paine - Puerto Natales

Today you’ll venture into the UNESCO biosphere reserve – Torres del Paine National Park. Take in the panoramas of jagged mountains and emerald-blue lakes. Marvel at the cascading waterfalls and the flora & fauna that are unique to the area. You are sure to be awed at every turn when exploring what is known as one of South America’s most incredible national parks.

Day 12 Puerto Natales

Enjoy a day at leisure to explore the charming town of Puerto Natales. Or, you may join an optional full-day cruise through the Chilean Fjords, visiting the breathtaking Serrano and Balmaceda glaciers. As you pass through the Seno Ultima Esperanza – “Channel of Last H...

Day 17 Buenos Aires

Today is yours to create your own adventure in Buenos Aires! Maybe you’ll stroll through San Martin Park or Calle Florida, a shopper’s paradise.

Day 20 Iguazu Falls - Rio de Janeiro

Fly to Rio de Janeiro. Magnificent views, beautiful beaches, flamboyant Carnival costumes, great cuisine and friendly people make Rio the cultural capital of Brazil. Venture to the top of Sugarloaf Mountain for breathtaking views. Check in to your beachfront hotel in ...

Day 21 Rio de Janeiro

Journey to Corcovado by train to see Christ the Redeemer, one of the largest Art Deco statues in the world. Take in the panoramic vistas from Tijuca Forest National Park. With 360-degree views around the city, you’ll soon realize why this statue is one of the new Seve...

Day 13 Puerto Natales - El Calafate, Argentina

Make your way from the Chilean side of Patagonia to El Calafate in Argentina, the gateway to Los Glaciares National Park. En route, meet some local gauchos at a typical Patagonian estancia. Partake in a traditional lamb roast lunch and learn about the local culture. T...

Day 14 El Calafate - Perito Moreno Glacier

Discover the jewel of Argentina’s Patagonia – Perito Moreno Glacier in Los Glaciares National Park. This UNESCO site forms part of the Patagonian Continental Ice Field and is one of the few glaciers in the world still advancing. Gaze off the shoreline in search of floating icebergs as you listen to the sounds of crashing ice breaking off the massive glacier.

Day 22 Rio de Janeiro

Your morning is at leisure to explore fabulous Rio de Janeiro on your own. Relax by the beach at your resort or take a shuttle to Copacabana. This evening, learn how to craft caipirinhas – Brazil’s famous cocktail made with sugar cane liquor and lime. Then, cap the night off with a farewell feast in a typical Brazilian churrascaria. Indulge in wine and meats slow-roasted to perfection.

Day 23 Rio de Janeiro - Tour Ends

As your tour comes to a close, transfer to the airport for your flight home. For guests with evening flights, enjoy additional time to prepare for your flight and absorb the pulse of this amazing city.

Day 18 Buenos Aires - Iguazu Falls, Brazil

Fly to Iguazu Falls – located at the crossroads of Brazil, Argentina and Paraguay – hailed as the most beautiful waterfalls in the world and one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Board the Rainforest Ecological Train inside the national park on the Argentine ...

Day 19 Iguazu Falls

Soak up the breathtaking views of the waterfalls from the Brazilian side. Join your local guide as you discover how Brazil and Argentina have fought to protect the beauty and raw power of the falls by making each side a national park. You will see firsthand why Eleano...

Day 15 El Calafate - Buenos Aires

Board your flight to Buenos Aires, birthplace of the tango and the “Paris of South America.” Stretching along the banks of the Rio de la Plata, the city is a mosaic of European-styled architecture and South American spirit. This evening explore the city at leisure.

Day 16 Buenos Aires

It’s your choice! Join a panoramic city tour by bus of lively Buenos Aires featuring the famous Avenida 9 de Julio, Teatro Colón opera house, and the Metropolitan Cathedral. Make stops at the Plaza de Mayo, La Casa Rosada Presidential mansion, and the famous Recoleta ...

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Dates & Availability

Price From $4,799
Price per day$209
Last Updated: 11/4/2019

Check Current Availability, prices, specials with Collette.

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.

Collette Reviews & Ratings

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Other Collette Reviews

L

Lara

Oct 2022

Written on

It was a wonderful trip and experience!

It was a wonderful trip and experience! We are still sorting all the pictures and memories about it, and some of them I would like to share with you - read my diary ...

D

David

Sep 2020

Provided byCollette

we had an absolute wonderful time

My wife & I just returned from your National Parks tour and we had an absolute wonderful time. Great itinerary, tour director (Merrin) and driver (John). First c...

W

Worst and most poorly planned guided tour I have evr taken

Oct 2023

Written on

Do not travel with Collette They area subpar company

This is worst tour I have ever taken. Poorly planned and not worth the money. Collette brought you to Lisbon where we sat for three days because NO TOURS or sited w...

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Tour Operator

Collette

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True adventures go beyond incredible destinations or inclusive packages. Collette delivers a sense of possibility across all seven continents.

Since 1918, we have been sharing our love of travel. Today our worldwide travel collection features comprehensive land tours, river cruises, rail journeys, small group tours, family trips, garden holidays and more. With Collette, wake each morning on tour with a new experience in front of you, and when your head hits the pillow, you will know it has been an amazing day. Best of all - we seamlessly handle the details. All you have to do is enjoy the adventure.

Everyone at Collette believes travel is vital to a life well-lived and our executive team sets the tone. Drawing on a diverse set of skills that includes operations, sales, information technology, law and financial planning, they work across three offices to bring you the best experience possible.

Go Guided:

There are so many benefits to letting someone else take on all the details that come with having The Perfect Trip. See why more and more travelers choose to Go Guided — and why they never go back.

5 Reasons to Go Guided:

Go Tour Managers!

On Day 1 of your trip, you’ll meet a friendly person who sure does know a lot about your tour and the destinations you’re visiting. This highly skilled professional is your tour manage and from the moment you meet this key player on your tour, you’ll know you’re in good hands. With their rich travel backgrounds, as well as their useful information about language, currency, and all things local, you can relax and enjoy the ride.

Go Culture!

Visiting a destination gives you a taste of the local culture. But imagine actually becoming part of that culture. Staying overnight in an Irish castle like Old-World royalty…feeling the cool waters of the Great Barrier Reef envelop you as you snorkel in its turquoise paradise…or rolling dough with an Italian chef to make the perfect pizza. It’s not just about all the iconic spots that will make for the best photos, it’s about diving into another world that makes for the best memories.

Go Product Team!

Our product experts are probably on the road right now — scoping out the best of our worldwide destinations. They go, take it all in, and find the moments they love best. Those are the moments they create for you. Those experiences and sights comprise each itinerary and make each one extra-special. Best of all, you don’t have to plan a thing. You just need to choose which itinerary best suits you.

Go Social!

Travel is social by nature. Guided travel is extra social. Meet a cast of characters: your fellow travelers, tour manager, driver, local guides and more. The social aspect of guided travel is one of the best parts! Many travelers on our tours have forged lasting friendships. Think of all the wonderful people waiting to meet you out in the world.

Go Worry-Free!

Your peace of mind is the most important thing to us. And that starts with our roundtrip home to airport sedan service. Forget taxis, airport fees, or public transportation. We will get you there...and back. And if for any reason you need to cancel your tour, you can do so — right up until the day before departure — and receive a full refund (thanks to our travel protection plan).

There are many ways to experience the world:

Among Collette’s worldwide collection of tours we offer a variety of guided travel choices. No matter where (or how) you want to go, Collette can take you there.

Small Groups, Big Experiences

From vibrant cities to remote villages, immerse yourself in other worlds. As part of a small group, enjoy accommodations chosen to capture the spirit of the destination, savor spectacular local cuisine, and take the time to explore on your own. Along the way Explorations sets the stage for the unexpected moments that make travel so special. With just 12-24 passengers, these are the personal adventures that today’s cultural explorers dream about.

Amazing Family Moments Included

Collette's Family tours bring travelers of all ages together to experience the world’s greatest destinations. There’s no better classroom than the world, no better education than taking a walk through history. Today’s parents — and grandparents — want to share the riches of travel with their children and grandchildren. Each tour in our family line is specially crafted with the best local experiences, iconic must-see's, family-oriented hotels and immersive cultural activities. Children ages 14 and under enjoy substantially discounted rates.

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Collette's Cancel for Any Reason Travel Protection Plan

The Traveling Well Experience

Our Commitment to Your Well-being and Enjoyment

There’s no denying that life and travel will likely look a little different for the foreseeable future, which is why we worked with our partners all over the world to create enhanced protective measures for our guests. These measures are intended to help safeguard guests’ health and well-being, while allowing for an enjoyable travel experience.  

From flexible booking to more open space on the coach and much more – all aspects of travel have been considered. This is The Traveling Well Experience.

  • Travel Protection Plan – cancel for any reason up until 24 hours before departure, plus provides numerous on-tour protections
  • More Physical Space – on the coach, in restaurants, and more
  • Wellness Protocols – for partners like motor coach operators, hotels, restaurants, and airlines
  • Enhanced Tour Manager Training ­– our tour managers are destination experts and highly equipped to handle a variety of unexpected situations – including illnesses and emergencies

Before Your Tour

Cancel for Any Reason Waiver

Our Travel Protection Plan financially protects you in the event you need to cancel or move your trip to a different date. Learn more here

Pre-Tour Health Screenings

We will ask all travellers to complete a wellness declaration form before joining their tour.

Private Sedan Service

Your ride to and from the airport will be stocked with fresh water for every pickup and all surfaces will be disinfected daily and after every passenger.

Air Travel

Specific details will vary by airline, but standard operations typically include flight attendants wearing masks, sanitizing all surfaces between flights and physical distancing. For links to major airlines, head to the bottom of the page, or visit your airline’s website for specific information.

On Your Tour

Smaller Groups

Tours will operate with a number of empty seats to allow guests to space out for a more comfortable experience.

Your Tour Manager

We have employed new and enhanced hygiene & physical distancing protocols for tour managers. They are local experts and highly trained to handle a variety of unexpected situations — including illnesses and emergencies. They are also available 24/7 for guests throughout the tour should any situation arise.

Use of Face Coverings

Face coverings will be included with your pre-tour documents and will be required throughout many experiences on tour including the motor coach and air travel.

Motor Coach

All surfaces will be sanitized often, including regular cleaning of high-touch areas with disinfecting wipes. Hand sanitizer will be available at all times and drivers will wear protective gear when appropriate.

On-Tour Experiences

We work closely with our local partners to ensure adequate physical distancing during meals, experiences, and sightseeing. Guests may be rotated in smaller sub-groups when necessary.

On-Tour Insurance Coverages

When you purchase our Travel Protection Plan, you’ll have access to telehealth services should you need it, plus you’re covered on tour for emergency assistance, baggage loss, trip interruption, medical expenses, and more. Learn more here

Self-Screening

We will ask all travellers to monitor their health throughout their tour, with protocols in place in the event someone becomes ill.

Hotels

Specific protocols will vary from destination to destination, hotel to hotel. Overall, rooms and areas like restaurants, fitness centres, etc. will be deep-cleaned regularly, with rooms disinfected thoroughly between guests. High-traffic areas like lobbies and elevators will be cleaned hourly.

After Your Tour

Post-Tour Survey

After you get home, you’ll be able to share your opinions of your tour experience, allowing us to constantly improve for the benefit of future guests.

Why we love this operator
With a history that spans back to 1918, they have unparalleled expertise in the guided tour industry and can cater to all types of travelers.
What they’re known for
A huge variety of expertly-guided international trips that include cultural activities unique to the destination.

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Logistics

What's excluded

    • The land price does not include air travel, airline fees, airport or departure taxes, transfers, visas, customary end-of-trip gratuities for your Tour Manager, driver, local guides, hotel housekeepers, cruise ship waitstaff, and any incidental charges.
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
35
Age Requirements
No age restrictions
Optional Activities

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Trip ID
collette-11816

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