Ultimate South America with Brazil's Amazon

Cosmos
By Cosmos
4.0 . Great
67%
Travel Style: Array Mixed
Physical Level: Very challenging all day hiking and backpacking carrying significant equipment. Hard
Lodging Level: Mid-range budget with accommodations ranging from comfortable lodges, guesthouses, and homestays to three star hotels. Value (3*)
23 days
From: $ 4,069 $ 177 / day
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Overview

Highlights (Bullets)

Short Description

Discover some of South America's greatest cities—Rio de Janeiro, Buenos Aires, and Lima—and some of its most spectacular sites and scenic areas on this South America tour to Brazil, Argentina, and Peru. You'll overnight in Manaus, the Amazon Jungle, Rio de Janeiro, Iguassu Falls, Buenos Aires, Lima, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Cusco, and Lake Titicaca. Guided sightseeing in each of the cities features the must-see sites. In Rio, take the cog railway to the summit of Corcovado to view the famous Christ the Redeemer statue. Your time in Buenos Aires includes a visit to Recoleta Cemetery, burial place for Eva Perón, and a Tango show. In Lima, your sightseeing focuses on the city's colonial heritage. Highlights of this South America tour include Iguassu Falls, where you’ll hear the thundering roar from both the Brazilian and Argentine sides, be amazed at the brilliant rainbows created by the clouds of spray, and stand in awe as you witness these 275 falls spanning nearly two miles! You’ll also be amazed at Machu Picchu, set in a majestic mountainside with ruins dating back to the 15th century. Glimpse the ancient history and culture as you enjoy this stunning and mystical place. Visit the Inca ruins at Ollantaytambo and the Temple of Sacsayhuaman, with stones weighing up to 350 tons. Time in Peru's Lake Titicaca, a lake of floating islands maintained over centuries by the local Indians, gives you a chance to experience the world's highest navigable lake and to learn about local practices. You’ll also spend time in Brazil’s Amazon, where you’ll cruise on the river, take Naturalist-guided walks, visit a local village, and marvel at the flora and fauna that thrive in the Amazon. All of this and more are included on this South America tour designed for the value-minded traveler who wants to experience it all!

Style Small group tour
See all the highlights and popular spots on a classic tour.
Itinerary Focus Classic Highlights
Mid-range budget with accommodations ranging from comfortable lodges, guesthouses, and homestays to three star hotels.
Lodging Level Value (3*)
Flight & Transport Inclusions N/A
Start City MANAUS, BRAZIL
End City LIMA

Destinations

Peru Brazil Argentina

Activities & Interests

Culture

N/A
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Itinerary

Day 1: MANAUS, BRAZIL

Welcome to the capital of the Amazonas region where you will be met by a Cosmos representative. Located in the dense Amazon Jungle area, Manaus preserves images of its opulent past and is still a major port—even 1,000 miles inland!

Day 2: MANAUS–AMAZON JUNGLE

Floating past the clustered huts of locals living on the banks of the river, cruise down the Rio Negro to the Meeting of the Waters. Marvel at the confluence of the dark-colored Rio Negro and the light chocolate-colored Rio Solimões, where the two rivers come together to form the mighty Amazon. For four miles, these two bodies of water flow side by side before they mix together. Later, disembark at a jungle island (water level permitting) with fascinating native flora and fauna. This afternoon, arrive at the Ecopark Jungle Lodge on the banks of the Rio Negro inside the Amazonian rainforest. (Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner)

Day 3: AMAZON JUNGLE

Enjoy a Naturalist-guided walk to see the flora and fauna that thrive in the Amazon. After lunch, sail up the river to visit an Amazon native Caboclo village to learn about their traditions, costumes, and culture. Also, try your hand at piranha fishing! Later, visit the Monkey Jungle Reserve, where researchers work to rehabilitate primates like spider, squirrel, woolly, and capuchin monkeys and reintroduce them into the jungle. This evening, venture back out on canoe with your Naturalist to appreciate the sounds of the jungle at night and look for small alligators (and other night creatures). (Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner)

Day 4: AMAZON JUNGLE–RIO DE JANEIRO

This morning, depart the Ecopark for a Manaus city tour featuring the famous Opera House, completed in 1896 after 15 years of construction, and a local market. Continue to the airport for your flight to Rio. (Breakfast)

Day 5: RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL

Welcome to spectacular Rio de Janeiro! After arrival, settle into your hotel and meet your Tour Director, who will have pointers for your free time exploration. (Breakfast)

Day 6: RIO DE JANEIRO

Guided sightseeing begins with a drive along Rio’s famed Leblon, Ipanema, and more. Take the cog railway 2,300 feet up to the summit of Corcovado to view the Christ the Redeemer statue and enjoy 360-degree views of Guanabara Bay and the bustling city below. The famed statue was completed in 1931 becoming emblematic for both the city and the Brazilian nation as a whole. Your afternoon is free to explore. (Breakfast)

Day 7: RIO DE JANEIRO

A free day in Rio allows you to relax on one of the beaches or take an optional excursion to the historic city of Petropolis. (Breakfast)

Day 8: RIO DE JANEIRO–IGUASSU FALLS

Fly to Iguassu Falls, one of the greatest natural wonders of the world. Journey to the Brazilian side of the falls to see the 275 waterfalls cascading over a precipice almost two miles wide and 250 feet deep. Walk into Devil’s Throat Canyon, where clouds of mist, a thunderous roar, and 180-degree rainbows surround you—an unforgettable experience! (Breakfast,Dinner)

Day 9: IGUASSU FALLS

Cross the border for a visit to the Argentine side of Iguassu Falls. Begin with a short ride on the open-air Ecological Jungle Train through the surrounding rainforest. A series of boardwalks takes you above the falls for a look over the edge to see the water crashing down below into the Devil’s Throat. This afternoon, you may opt to visit the Bird Park, home to many species of endemic birds as well as flora from the area. (Breakfast)

Day 10: IGUASSU FALLS–BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINA

Fly to Buenos Aires, Argentina’s cosmopolitan capital. After settling into your hotel, you may wish to familiarize yourself with the “Paris of South America” and its wide boulevards, outdoor cafés, and charming shops. (Breakfast)

Day 11: BUENOS AIRES

Morning sightseeing with a Local Guide focuses on the city’s well-known landmarks, including the Teatro Colón Opera House and Plaza de Mayo, site of La Casa Rosada (the President’s Pink House), and Metropolitan Cathedral. Also, visit La Boca and San Telmo, one of Buenos Aires’ oldest neighborhoods, and Recoleta Cemetery, where Eva Perón is buried. End your day with an Argentinean meal, followed by a sensuous Tango show highlighting this alluring dance so popular here. (Breakfast,Dinner)

Day 12: BUENOS AIRES

Today is free for independent activities, or you can take an optional excursion to visit a local estancia (ranch) to experience the life of the gauchos (cowboys) on a traditional Argentine ranch complete with a barbecue lunch. (Breakfast)

Day 13: BUENOS AIRES–LIMA, PERU

Board a flight for Lima, Peru. Heralded as the “City of Kings” by Spanish conquistadors, Lima still carries vestiges of its opulent past with its colonial buildings and world-class museums. (Breakfast)

Day 14: LIMA

Sightseeing today focuses on Lima’s colonial heritage. Founded in 1535, Lima was once the capital of Spain’s South American Empire. Visit the baroque 11th-century San Francisco Monastery, with Spanish and Moorish architecture throughout. Continue to Plaza Mayor, where you will see the Government Palace that houses the presidential palace and was once the home of Francisco Pizarro, founder of Lima and conqueror of Peru. Nearby, see the cathedral where Pizarro’s remains are buried. The remainder of your day is free to explore on your own. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant this evening. (Breakfast,Dinner)

Day 15: LIMA–CUSCO–SACRED VALLEY

Fly to Cusco high in the Andes and, upon arrival, descend into the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Stop at Awanakancha and learn about the importance of camelids (llama, vicuña, alpaca, and guanaco) for Inca cultures. See them up close and learn how their coats are transformed into colorful weaving fibers that are then used in ancient weaving techniques still in use today. Continue to Pisac, a charming village with a famous Indian market, where you have plenty of time to browse the many colorful stalls selling handicrafts ranging from alpaca sweaters and blankets to painted vases and sterling silver. Later, arrive at your hotel, nestled in the peaceful Sacred Valley. (Breakfast,Dinner)

Day 16: SACRED VALLEY

Start the day with a visit to Ollantaytambo and the Inca ruins of the same name. Explore the archaeological site that was the scene of the Inca resistance during the Spanish conquest—the only place ever to resist Spanish attacks. You will see how the temple area at the top of the terraces was the perfect defensive stronghold. Next, visit a local home to experience life in this traditional village, which has been remarkably well preserved. Then, visit the Seminario Ceramics Workshop to learn about Peruvian ancient and modern art. End your day at a local chicheria for a taste of a typical Inca drink in Peru called chicha. (Breakfast)

Day 17: SACRED VALLEY–MACHU PICCHU

Board the Vistadome train that cuts a path through the picturesque Urubamba Valley bound for Aguas Calientes, the quaint town closest to the “Lost City of the Incas.” Ascend the mountainside through tropical forest to the sacred refuge of Machu Picchu. Your guide recounts the many accomplishments of the Incas as you tour the terraced ruins dating back to the 15th century. Abandoned when the Inca Empire fell to the Spanish, these remarkable ruins remained undiscovered for nearly 400 years. For this reason, many of the mysteries surrounding Machu Picchu remain to this day. (Breakfast,Dinner)

Day 18: MACHU PICCHU–CUSCO

Enjoy some free time this morning to explore the mountain town of Aguas Calientes; perhaps visit the local market, quaint boutiques, or take a walk along nearby trails. Later this afternoon, return to Cusco, former capital of the Inca Empire. (Breakfast)

Day 19: CUSCO

Embark on a guided sightseeing tour of Cusco that focuses on the city that was once the political, military, and cultural epicenter of the Incas. In fact, Inca foundations can still be found in Cusco, with the Spanish baroque structures built on top. Visit the Santo Domingo Monastery, where these two forms of architecture are melded together with the temple of both cultures atop one another. Also, see the Cathedral in the Plaza de Armas before a visit to the Temple of Sacsayhuaman. Some of the best examples of Inca masonry can be found at this fortress, where stones weighing up to 350 tons are pieced together to form a complex that could house up to 10,000 men. Learn about the ceremonies and battles that took place here on your tour. Also, see the ruins of Kenko and Puca Pucara before returning to Cusco. (Breakfast,Dinner)

Day 20: CUSCO–JULIACA–PUNO

Fly to Juliaca, then transfer to Puno on the shores of Lake Titicaca. Legend says the first Inca, Manco Capac, arose from the waters of the lake by the power of the sun god to found the Inca Empire. (Breakfast)

Day 21: PUNO. EXCURSION TO LAKE TITICACA

Experience fascinating Lake Titicaca today as you embark on a motorboat tour of the highest navigable lake in the world and its manmade islands. On Taquile Island, see how the local people integrate their Inca and Spanish past. Continue to the Uros floating islands, a group of approximately 40 artificially made islands. Learn how the Uros Indians construct their islands, homes, boats, and many other resources completely of tortora reed, a centuries-old practice. Enjoy a farewell dinner hosted by your Tour Director this evening. (Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner)

Day 22: PUNO–JULIACA–LIMA

En route to Juliaca, stop at the pre-Incan burial grounds of Sillustani. See the above-ground tombs, chullpas, in which the Aymara Indians buried their high priests. You will be welcomed into a local home for an inside look at life here. Fly to Lima and transfer to your hotel. (Breakfast)

Day 23: LIMA

Your vacation ends after breakfast this morning. (Breakfast)

Availability

Checking price
Price From $ 4,069
Price Per Day: $ 177 per day
Checking price
Start DateFinish DateBase PriceDeparture GuaranteedAvailability 
Oct-09-2023Oct-31-2023$ 4,069NoSold Out Reserve
Oct-23-2023Nov-14-2023$ 4,069NoSold Out Reserve
Jan-15-2024Feb-06-2024$ 4,379NoSold Out Reserve
Jan-29-2024Feb-20-2024$ 4,379NoSold Out Reserve
Feb-26-2024Mar-19-2024$ 4,379NoSold Out Reserve
Apr-08-2024Apr-30-2024$ 4,379YesAvailable Reserve
May-20-2024Jun-11-2024$ 4,379NoAvailable Reserve
Jun-17-2024Jul-09-2024$ 4,379NoAvailable Reserve
Jul-01-2024Jul-23-2024$ 4,379NoAvailable Reserve
Jul-29-2024Aug-20-2024$ 4,379NoAvailable Reserve
Sep-09-2024Oct-01-2024$ 4,379NoAvailable Reserve
Sep-23-2024Oct-15-2024$ 4,379NoAvailable Reserve
Oct-07-2024Oct-29-2024$ 4,379NoAvailable Reserve
Oct-21-2024Nov-12-2024$ 4,379NoAvailable Reserve
Nov-04-2024Nov-26-2024$ 4,379NoAvailable Reserve
Nov-18-2024Dec-10-2024$ 4,379NoAvailable Reserve
Jan-13-2025Feb-04-2025$ 4,659NoAvailable Reserve
Jan-27-2025Feb-18-2025$ 4,659NoAvailable Reserve
Feb-24-2025Mar-18-2025$ 4,659NoAvailable Reserve
Apr-07-2025Apr-29-2025$ 4,659NoAvailable Reserve
May-19-2025Jun-10-2025$ 4,659NoAvailable Reserve
Jun-16-2025Jul-08-2025$ 4,659NoAvailable Reserve
Jun-30-2025Jul-22-2025$ 4,659NoAvailable Reserve
Jul-28-2025Aug-19-2025$ 4,659NoAvailable Reserve
Sep-08-2025Sep-30-2025$ 4,659NoAvailable Reserve
Sep-22-2025Oct-14-2025$ 4,659NoAvailable Reserve
Oct-06-2025Oct-28-2025$ 4,659NoAvailable Reserve
Oct-20-2025Nov-11-2025$ 4,659NoAvailable Reserve
Nov-03-2025Nov-25-2025$ 4,659NoAvailable Reserve
Nov-17-2025Dec-09-2025$ 4,659NoAvailable Reserve
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3 Cosmos Travel Reviews & Ratings

67%
4.0 out of 5 (100+ reviews)
Excellent 1
Great 1
Average 1
Disappointing 0
Terrible 0
Value
4.3
Guide
4.7
Activities
4.3
Lodging
4.3
Transportation
5.0
Meals
4.0

Ultimate South America with Brazil's Amazon

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Company Reviews

Cosmos? No

3.0
Details
Value3.0
Guide4.0
Activities3.0
Lodging3.0
Transportation5.0
Meals3.0
We've taken over 10 group tours using Cosmos and Gate1. This trip last month, 9000 was not very good.
-During booking, incorrect information was given about airport-hotel transfers
-The whispers (listening devices) didn't work from the get-go, so no whispers were used during the 13 day trip.
- Porters are no longer hired to bring your luggage to and from your room. (Very elderly had to handle their own luggage. Our friends had to help many of them.)
-A few days into the trip one couple left. At the end of the trip we found out they had covid. Cosmos did not let us know; a few people weren't feeling well and two of our friends then tested positive.
-One hotel was awful and not even up to "budget" standards
-Many of the stops had castles, churches... but were not included, so be sure to count that in when pricing.
 don't plan to use Cosmos ever again. Gate1 is the best in my opinion. When my husband's passport was stolen, they assigned someone to go with him to the embassy, translate, etc...It was above and beyond what we expected 
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Excellent Experience and Excellent Guide

5.0
Details
Value5.0
Guide5.0
Activities5.0
Lodging5.0
Transportation5.0
Meals5.0
I would highly recommend this company and some trips to Scandinavia and Baltic. The countries are amazing, the service and our guide Ausra Paukste was really the best ever. If you wish to visit this region consider Cosmos company.
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Great COSMOS value

4.0
Details
Value5.0
Guide5.0
Activities5.0
Lodging5.0
Transportation5.0
Meals4.0
I am a budget solo female traveler. I have traveled with COSMOS for about 20 years in the past, all over Europe, Switzerland, Turkey, etc. The best thing is that I never have to pay extra for single supplement when I room with someone. If Cosmos can not find a room mate for you, you end up having the whole room. Because of this feature, I was able to travel everywhere by my self with reasonable price. Cosmos always provides great value for the bucks. I would do it again. I highly recommend to you all.
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Details

Local Flights

Participation in this tour requires a purchase of additional local flights.

Group Size

Standard Group - 25 + people

Accommodations

Hotel Blue Tree Premium Manaus

Ecopark Jungle Lodge

Windsor Excelsior Copacabana

Recanto Park

Kenton Palace

Jose Antonio Lima Hotel

Sonesta Posadas del Inca - Sacred Valley - Yucay

El Mapi by Inkaterra

Jose Antonio Cusco

Xima Puno Hotel

Trip ID#:

COSMOS-1202

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