The Latin Quest(With Inca Trail Trek,Start Quito, End Rio de Janeiro)

36 days
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USTOA

Group Tour
This one's for the wide-eyed wanderers who want to do it all, experience everything & explore every inch of Peru, Ecuador, Brazil and Argentina. From bustling, colourful streets to quiet ancient temples, live volcanoes & beautiful beaches, you'll find your own personal paradise in each travel destination over 36 epic days. Travelling through Latin Ame...

Overview

Trip type
Group Tour
Lodging level
Basic - 2 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Full schedule

Highlights

    • Locally Guided City Tour
    • Visit Panecillo lookout
    • Visit the Equator and internan Museum
    • Snorkelling experience
    • Wildlife kayaking adventure
    • Visit a Turtle breeding centre
    • Visit Tortuga Bay and take a hike to a secluded beach
    • Visit Charles Darwin Research Station
    • Explore Kicker Rock
    • Visit a private beach

What's this trip about?

    This one's for the wide-eyed wanderers who want to do it all, experience everything & explore every inch of Peru, Ecuador, Brazil and Argentina. From bustling, colourful streets to quiet ancient temples, live volcanoes & beautiful beaches, you'll find your own personal paradise in each travel destination over 36 epic days. Travelling through Latin America favours the bold - so say hello to the snaking ruins of Machu Picchu, hiking through the canopies of the Amazon rainforest, interactive food tours in Buenos Aires and pure white beaches at every turn. This Latin Quest hits all the on-trend travel hotspots, and is guaranteed to play flamenco with your heartstrings.

Details

Itinerary focusClassic Highlights
Group sizeIntimate group - 12 max
Age rangeNo age restrictions
Flights and transportN/A
Start CityQuito
End CityRio de Janeiro

Travel Themes

  • Local Immersion & Homestays

Destinations

  • South America
  • Argentina
  • Brazil
  • Ecuador
  • Peru

Attractions

  • Aguas Calientes
  • Arequipa
  • Buenos Aires
  • Cusco
  • Galapagos
  • Guayaquil
  • Isabela Island
  • Lima
  • Machu Picchu
  • Puerto Maldonado
  • Puno
  • Quito
  • Rio de Janeiro
  • Sacred Valley
  • San Cristobal

Activities

  • Culture
  • Homestays & Cultural Immersion

Popular Trips

Itinerary

Day 1: Quito

With plenty of Latino magic ahead of us, the mood will be sky high as we gather in Ecuador's capital. This modern day city (nicknamed the 'light of America') is built on ancient Incan ruins and boasts one of the best preserved historic centres in America. It was also ...

Day 2: Quito to Tena

Having dived deep into Quito yesterday we will wake up ready and raring for adventure, excited for the first of many dramatic changes in scenery on this trip. Our first journey on the road leads us to what is known as the 'cinnamon capital of Ecuador'. But even more e...

Day 3: Tena

Today is yours to roam the city and jungle to your hearts content. Maybe unwind over a few hot sugar cane and cinnamon drinks and a traditional canelazo brew, or opt to visit a local indigenous community - a pretty cool way to truly go local and give back on your trip...

Day 4: Tena to Banos

Good morning, Amazonian roamers! Today we're off to the adrenaline capital of Banos, so time to shimmy our way out of the rainforest - our next adventure awaits... Sitting amidst tumbling valleys, waterfalls, and the still active Volcán Tungurahua, Banos is a big deal...

Day 5: Banos

The adventure opportunities are endless today, with horseback riding, canyoneering and ziplining all on the menu. And trust us, this isn’t just any regular old zipline – we’re talking aerial bridges, rock climbing and speeding through the skies, Superman style – prett...

Day 6: Banos to Guayaquil

Adios Baños, you've been real. Today we're hearing the call of Ecuador's largest city and economic hub - our last stop on the mainland before we find ourselves clocking on to island time. Once in Guayaquil, start getting acquainted with Ecuador's urban side at the cit...

Day 7: Guayaquil to Isabela Island via Santa Cruz

We’ve arrived in Ecuador’s largest city and are ready and raring to conquer it all. Getting out of here pretty early we’ll take to the skies, bound for the glorious Galapagos Islands. Excited much? You should be. On arrival we’ll appease our rumbling stomachs with som...

Day 8: Isabela Island

Well good morning paradise. The ocean is calling, and who are we to resist her? Our wildlife kayaking adventure will see us taking to the seas with beady eyes on the lookout for green sea turtles.

Day 9: Isabela Island to Santa Cruz Island

We’ll wake up hungry for the day this morning (that’s what island life does to you), and for good reason – Santa Cruz is on the horizon.After settling in to the Santa Cruz way of life, we’ll stroll down to the beach and the cosy Tortuga Bay. Wildlife fanatics will be ...

Day 10: Santa Cruz to San Cristobal Island

Back on our boat we’ll set sail for San Cristobal, keeping our eyes peeled for cute bathing sea lions (we won’t have to look too hard – they’re literally everywhere). Four extinct volcanoes sit across the island creating scenic highlands that are best experienced by b...

Day 11: San Cristobal Island

It’s our last day soaking up the natural beauty of the Galapagos, and what a day we’ve got planned. Bird-watching will kick us off, followed by a cruise to the 143-metre Kicker Rock – a natural phenomenon that protrudes from the ocean and is one of the greatest icons ...

Day 12: San Cristobal to Lima

We’ll wave goodbye to Ecuador this morning, but the sad faces at leaving this beautiful country won’t last for long. Why? 2 words... Peru, baby!Our included flight will land us in the seaside Peruvian capital of Lima. Arriving late, we’ll nevertheless be pumped at the...

Day 13: Lima

A new day, a new country – let’s do this! Steeped in Spanish colonialism yet buzzing with modern metro vibes, Lima is sure to ignite your love for Peru. Spend your morning marvelling at lavishly decorated churches and an underground tunnel cemetery overflowing with bo...

Day 14: Lima to Arequipa

The skies are calling this morning as we board our included flight bound for the ‘White City’ of Arequipa, Peru’s second largest city which lies in the shadow of three majestic volcanoes.The town of Arequipa, or La Ciudad Blanca, is both culturally and aesthetically a...

Day 15: Arequipa to Colca Canyon

Are you ready for another nature masterclass? Waving farewell to Arequipa this morning, we’ll pass through Salinas and Aguada Blanco national reserve on route to one of the world’s deepest canyons.After a journey of windswept landscapes, sandstone cliff & stops fo...

Day 16: Colca Canyon to Puno

This morning promises to be pretty mega as we hop out of bed in search for the King of the Andes, otherwise known as the Andean Condor, which boasts a mega 3-metre wingspan. Fingers crossed luck is on our side – some days we may spot 10 condors, other days none – but ...

Day 17: Puno

Ready to explore this area in all its multi-coloured glory? We thought so. Jumping in a triciclo (a three-wheeled bike taxi) we’ll bump our way down to the port and get our first taste of life on the Lake (fun fact – Lake Titicaca is South America’s largest freshwater...

Day 18: Puno to Cusco via Raqchi

Heading out of Puno this morning we’ll make our way to Pukara to visit a small museum offering up archaeological findings and Peru’s iconic ceramic bulls. Hitting the road again we’ll journey through the snow-capped surrounds of La Raya, stopping for lunch in the town...

Day 19: Cusco

Another day, another incredible Latin American destination to uncover; today it's sun up 'til sun down in Cusco. Shop for artisan jewellery and woodworks, roam the cobble-stone streets or just stroll the San Pedro markets eating cacao buds and sipping on coca leaf tea. Today really is what you make it as you’re in total control…except for dinner with the crew – that’s on us.

Day 20: Cusco to Sacred Valley

Heading out of Cusco and bound for the Sacred Valley on our private coach, this is where our journey into the ruins and mystique of this land truly begins. But first, llamas. An iconic symbol of Peru, we’ll be stopping off at a llama farm to show some love to these fu...

Day 21: Sacred Valley to Aguas Calientes or Inca Trail Trek

For those embarking on our epic 1 day trek, we’ll catch the train to KM104 and the start of a day to remember. With just 3.5 hours on foot and 6-kilometres to cover, the enchanting site that awaits us will make it all worthwhile. Descending into the site we’ll take ...

Day 22: Machu Picchu to Cusco

Excitement levels at an all-time high, the day we’ve all been waiting for is finally here – it’s Machu Picchu time! Built around 1450 at the height of the Incan Empire, Machu Picchu is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the seven wonders of the new world. We’ll b...

Day 23: Cusco

The last few days have been pretty full on, so today is all about seeking out some much needed r’n’r. Grab a lie in at the hotel then sip fresh mountain coffee in the Plaza de Armas, or maybe take a stroll around town to pick up an alpaca sweater or ten (they are super snuggly). Can’t shake that taste for adventure? We hear you.

Day 24: Cusco to Jungle Lodge

Saying a final farewell to Cusco, we’ll hop on our included flight over the Andes to the city of Puerto Maldonado. With the sound of macaws and toucans welcoming us in, this can only mean one thing…it’s jungle time.A quick tour of the city will reveal colourful fruit ...

Day 25: Jungle Lodge to Puerto Maldonado

If the vibrant morning song of the jungle birds hasn’t roused you early doors, the prospect of the Tres Chimadas lake teeming with wildlife will. Our morning catamaran cruise will have us spotting prehistoric hoatzin birds and giant river otters. Satisfaction levels o...

Day 26: Puerto Maldonado to Lima

Today marks our last day in Peru before heading east to Argentina and Brazil, so how better to spend it than one last night in the city where it all began – Lima. Options for your free evening in Lima are varied and endless. Maybe make for the trendy district of Miraf...

Day 27: Lima to Buenos Aires

This morning we'll leave the land of the Inca and fly to one of the most cosmopolitan cities in South America.Hola Buenos Aires! We'll get straight into the local culture with an authentic dinner (washed down with a glass of malbec, of course) and a tantalising tango show. The perfect way to get our Argentina adventure started.

Day 28: San Antonio De Areco Day Trip

Today we'll switch it up and get out of the bustling city towards perhaps the prettiest town in all of the Pampas: San Antonia de Areco.In this picturesque town, Gaucho traditions are still front and center, and we'll stroll the historic centre, learning the important...

Day 29: Buenos Aires

Today, you'll get the full Porteño (Buenos Aires local) experience. What better way to get intimate with this invigorating city than a tour with our very own local guide? After getting to know the local sights and sounds, we'll get a taste of true Argentina on our included, interactive food tour. Food coma - here we come.

Day 30: Buenos Aires

Now that you know Buenos Aires like a Porteño the day is yours to explore! Join in a day at the Polo where you'll learn about the traditional Argentine game, learn how to play and even partake in a game of your own. If you're more comfortable out on the water, opt to ...

Day 31: Buenos Aires to Iguassu Falls

Rise and shine Latin adventurers, we’ve got yet another included flight to catch – Brazil bound…Landing in Puerto Iguazu we’ll hop over the border and dig our toes into Brazilian soil for the first time, clapping eyes on yet another astounding natural wonder. Listen o...

Day 32: Iguassu Falls

Iguassu we’re not done with you yet! Yesterday was all about the Brazilian side, but today we’re hopping back over to Argentina to see what the deal is from this side of the falls. We’ll take a hike to the very edge of Devil’s Throat, the highest of the 275 falls, and...

Day 33: Iguassu Falls to Rio De Janeiro

Catch you later Iguassu – Rio, we’re coming in hot…If Rio knows one thing, it’s how to p-a-r-t-y, so having fun in this life loving city is already a given. But first things first – let’s get acquainted with our surroundings a little better. After a quick orientation ...

Day 34: Rio de Janeiro

Today check out the city from above, hang gliding to see Rio in all its scenic glory. Then this afternoon is all yours, and it sounds like Copacabana Beach is calling your name. Or if a game's in town watch the masters of football do it like no one else can, while you soak in the crazy atmosphere that goes alongside the national sport.

Day 35: Rio de Janeiro

Excuse us while we cry into our caipirinhas - today is our last full day on trip. But before the emotions run too high, let's make sure we see it out with a bang, Rio style. First up is a visit to Christ the Redeemer, a New Wonder of the World. Standing at an impressi...

Day 36: Rio de Janeiro

This morning, this adventure of epic proportion will finally come to an end. Hug it out with the new friends you now class as family, and damn right you’re already on those reunion tour plans. Europe next summer, anyone?

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Dates & Availability

Price From $8,905
Price per day$247
Last Updated: 0/19/2022

Check Current Availability, prices, specials with Contiki.

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.

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Contiki

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We’re firm believers that life’s greatest experiences are made better by the people you share them with. That’s why Contiki invented group travel for young people in 1962 and we’ve spent the past 53 years perfecting it. You’ll explore amazing destinations with a group of 18-35 year olds from around the world who share your passion for adventure, good times and creating memories that define what it is to be young, wild and free.

No two travellers are the same and we know that, which is why we offer eight unique ways to explore the world. We have a number of options to choose from to create a vacation that’s perfect for you, from budget to accommodation style.

We're all about exploring the world with like-minded people, which is why we only run trips for 18-35 year olds, to celebrate being young, spirited and curious. You can expect to join a group of 18-53 awesome people from around the world on our Europe, Australia, North America and New Zealand trips, and in Asia and Latin America it's all about small group adventures with up to 25 travellers. Don't worry if you're not traveling as a couple or with a friend from home – though there are plenty of pairs, 50% of our travellers set off solo, meaning you'll have a ton of opportunities to make new friends.

With over 270 trips around the world and plenty of departure dates to work into your schedule, you'll never be short of options on where to go for your next great adventure.

About the company:
Contiki are the world leaders in social youth travel. We’ve been providing amazing travel experiences for young travellers, from 18-35 years old, since 1962. Imagine how good you would be at something if you had been doing it for more than 60 years?

Everything about Contiki is deeply rooted in our core values ‘Make Every Moment Count’ and ‘We’re about people’. We don’t just talk the talk, we walk the walk and live by our brand philosophy of ‘Travel.Together.’ which means to travel with one another, the destinations we visit, the cultures we enjoy and the environment, too.

Why we love this operator
Their trips create life-long memories for young people setting off to discover the world.
What they’re known for
Social travel for 18-35 year olds around the world.

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Logistics

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
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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
  • What a feast you have in store. You can expect to refuel with 35 hearty breakfasts, 6 lively lunches and 12 delicious dinners from us, but we'll also give you the opportunity to sample some of the best local cuisine. You'll taste it all - from Peruvian crayfish chowder and freshly brewed coca tea to Brazilian BBQ and sizzling slabs of famous Argentine steak. All washed down with a Caiparinha or Pisco Sour, of course.
Age Requirements
No age restrictions
Trip ID
contiki-QURJTQ15

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