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Compare Chile: Cities, Lakes & Volcanoes by Great Value Vacations vs Wonders of South America by Across South America

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Duration 7 days 22 days
Price From $ 2,435 $ 12,980
Price Per Day $ 348 $ 590
Highlights
  • Experience the awe-inspiring sight of not merely one, but four snow-capped volcanoes! See Osorno, Calbuco, Puntiagudo, and Tronador on this magical journey.
  • Embark on an informative, yet entertaining tour of Santiago's historical downtown!
  • Float on top of sparkling lakes and watch the rush of glistening waterfalls on your excursion to Peulla.
  • Wander around the colorful, cafe-lined streets of Santiago's artsy Bellavista neighborhood. Yes, Pablo Neruda really did live there, and you can visit his amazing former home!
  • Try Chilean favorites like asado, empanadas, cazuela - and of course - tres leches cake for dessert.
  • Beauties of Rio de Janeiro
  • Iguazu Falls and bird watching
  • Discover Buenos Aires & Gaucho Culture
  • Highlights of Patagonia including Perito Moreno Glacier and Torres del Paine
  • Santiago de Chile and Wines
  • Food and history in Cusco
  • Sacred Valley of Inkas
  • Dawn in Machu Picchu
Trip Style N/A Private guided tour
Lodging Level Standard Premium
Physical Level
  • 2- Easy
  • 2- Easy
Travel Themes
  • Cultural
  • Nature & Wildlife
  • National Parks
  • Cultural
  • Nature & Wildlife
  • Culinary & Wine
  • Birding
  • Sailing
  • Photography
  • High Adventure
  • Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing
  • Trekking & Expeditions
Countries Visited
Cities and Attractions
  • Puerto Varas
  • Santiago
  • Buenos Aires
  • Cusco
  • El Calafate
  • Iguazu Falls
  • Iguazu National Park
  • Lima
  • Machu Picchu
  • Rio de Janeiro
  • Torres del Paine National Park
Flights & Transport Ground transport included Ground transport included
Activities
  • Culture
  • Historic sightseeing
  • History
  • Nature
  • Ruins & Archaeology
  • Adventure & Adrenaline
  • Bird watching
  • Canoeing
  • Cooking
  • Culture
  • History
  • Independent
  • Nature
  • Photography
  • Sailing
  • Short Cruise
  • Trekking
  • Wildlife viewing
  • Winetasting
Meals Included N/A

Breakfast every day; Lunch and dinner as per the notes (what's included)

Description

Picture this: you're walking down a colorful street in Santiago. The smell of sizzling empanadas is making you hungry, friendly vendors are selling colorful artwork, and you turn around and see the majestic Andes in the distance. Now, add in towering snow-capped volcanoes, boat rides atop glistening lakes, majestic waterfalls. The best part? It's not too good to be true! On this amazing vacation package, explore the spectacular city of Santiago, then immerse yourself in the picture-perfect natural beauty of Puerto Varas and Peulla, all in one trip.

Explore the Highlights of South America; Start in Rio de Janeiro and end in Lima, Peru! Remarkable landscapes of Rio, Culture immersion and the Gaucho life in Areco town, Tango, food delights in Buenos Aires and Santiago. Plus, the outstanding Glaciers and Lakes of Patagonia, with the unique Machu Picchu Ruins at the end. A "life-changing" experience!

Itinerary: Chile: Cities, Lakes & Volcanoes

Day 1: Welcome to Santiago!

Accommodation: Hotel Torremayor Lyon

Touch down in the sunny city of Santiago! Immerse yourself in fascinating history, colonial architecture, and sweeping natural beauty in Chile's capital and largest city. Feel your eyes widen as you gawk at the sight of the majestic snow-capped Andes that surround the vibrant city.

Enjoy a comfortable ride to your first luxurious hotel and check-in. Once you're all settled, start exploring! Head to the upscale neighborhood of Providencia and treat yourself to a decadent first-night dinner. Try some traditional Chilean favorites, like Pastel de Choclo or Cazuela, a hearty homemade stew!

Transfer from Santiago airport (SCL) to Santiago hotel

Day 2: Santiago

Wake up smiling, enjoy breakfast, and get ready for your first fun-filled day in Chile! Grab your camera and embark on a tour of Santiago's historical downtown. Explore the Plaza de Armas, City Hall, the Cathedral, and much more.

After the tour, consider roaming around Santiago's artsy, bright Bellavista neighborhood. Discover unique street art, browse around handmade craft shops, and indulge in some tasty snacks at authentic empanada joints!

Santiago Historical Downtown City Tour

Explore Santiago, Chile's capital, which is nestled in the central valley, right below the majestic Andes. Feel the legacy of the "Mapuche" natives, who inhabited this land during the Pre-Colombian era, as well as the modernity of a thriving, booming city. Stroll along beautiful streets, visit interesting museums, admire amazing architecture, and learn all about the city's fascinating history.

Depart from your hotel and get ready to explore! Journey towards the city center, where you will see all of the main attractions. You will visit the Plaza de Armas, where you'll see the Cathedral of Santiago, the Municipality, the Post Office Building, the National History Museum, and more! Stand in awe of the gorgeous Government Palace, where you'll have the opportunity to walk through some of the most traditional streets and neighborhoods in Chile.

The fun's not over yet! Head uptown along the Costanera Highway until you reach the elegant Vitacura neighborhood and the Alonso de Cordova Avenue. Check out the FABA handicraft shop, which specializes in lapis lazuli jewelry, a semi-precious stone found only in Chile and Afghanistan. To conclude a fabulous tour, enjoy a traditional pisco sour while appreciating the beautiful spectacle of colorful jewelry.

Day 3: Santiago

Ahh, a day at leisure to relax in Santiago - what could be better? Recharge with a pleasant breakfast, then venture out!

Today, head to the Central Market (Mercado Central) and walk through stalls and stands of fresh seafood, local delicacies, and fresh produce and spices. This market is more than just a place to shop; it's a colorful spectacle of art and culture!

Are you a literature lover? If so, check out La Chascona, the former residence of Nobel Prize-winning poet Pablo Neruda! Visit this home-turned-museum on your own, or splurge for a guided tour. The building's unique architecture and wacky shapes and colors will make you feel like you're in a wonderland of creativity!

In the afternoon, make your way to Santa Lucia Hill (Cerro Santa Lucia) and/or St. Christopher Hill (Cerro San Cristobal). These beyond-gorgeous hilltop parks boast some of the best views in Santiago, so make sure your camera is fully charged! Feast your eyes on an unforgettable sunset over the city's surrounding mountainscape.

Day 4: Santiago - Puerto Varas

Accommodation: Cabana del Lago

Say "see ya" to Santiago (for now) and jet off to the bright blue lakeside city of Puerto Varas! Nestled on the banks of Lake Llanquihue, Puerto Varas boasts quaint German-style architecture, which is reflective of its colonial past! In this picturesque city, you'll feel overwhelmed by the beauty of the picture-perfect snow-capped Osorno and Calbuco Volcanos that can be seen from every angle.

On the way to your hotel, enjoy an included private city tour of Puerto Montt and Puerto Varas! After the tour, check-in to your hotel and take delight in a lovely evening at leisure.

Transfer from Santiago hotel to Santiago airport (SCL)

Fly to Puerto Varas!

Transfer from Puerto Montt airport (PMC) to Puerto Varas hotel

Private city tour of Puerto Montt and Puerto Varas (en-route from airport to Puerto Varas hotel)

Explore Puerto Varas, known as the "City of Roses." The city is famous for its German traditions mixed with Chilean culture, and some of its highlights are the wooden architecture, local food and crafts, the Sacred Heart of Jesus Church and Costanera Avenue.

The tour continues to Puerto Montt, the region's capital and a commercial and fishing center. As you tour the city, located on the shore of the Pacific Ocean, enjoy panoramic views of the bay and Tenglo Bay. In Puerto Montt, see the cathedral, the colorful seafood market where fishermen going about their daily business, and the handicrafts market of Angelmó with a variety of copper, wool, wood and lapis lazuli products.

Day 5: Puerto Varas

Refuel with a yummy breakfast, then look forward to a day of volcanoes, lakes, and waterfalls! Embark on an unforgettable excursion to Peulla, where you'll sail atop picturesque Lake Santos and see several active volcanoes up-close!

Peulla Excursion with lunch

Grab your camera and get ready for a day of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and local cuisine. Depart from your hotel in Puerto Varas and head towards the south shore of Lake Llanquihue until you reach Vincente Perez Rosales Park, where you'll appreciate the sparkling spectacle of Petrohue River Falls! Watch the river water flow over the volcanic lava rocks, creating a true feast for the eyes.

Next stop, Peulla, a small ecological village of 120 inhabitants! Sail on the glistening waters of Todos Los Santos Lake for about 1 hour and 45 minutes, where you'll spot the impressive Osorno, Puntiagudo, and Tronador Volcanoes. In Peulla, you'll have the chance to partake in some outdoor activities, visit the Bridal Veil waterfall, and enjoy a delicious lunch.

Day 6: Puerto Varas – Santiago

Accommodation: Hotel Torremayor Lyon

After breakfast, hop on a quick flight back to Santiago. Once you're all re-settled into your hotel, spend your last full day in Chile discovering new treasures, or revisiting your favorite sites!

Santiago is filled with interesting museums, like the Chilean Museum of Pre-Columbian Art, the National Museum of Fine Arts, and the Museum of Memory and Human Rights (free). Get your history on and check them out!

Unwind with a glass of local wine and treat yourself to a delicious last night meal.

Transfer from Puerto Varas hotel to Puerto Montt airport (PMC)

Fly to Santiago!

Transfer from Santiago airport (SCL) to Santiago hotel

Day 7: Depart Chile

Squeeze all your souvenirs into your luggage and enjoy a convenient ride to the airport. As you take off, wave goodbye to Chile, then spend the flight home dreaming about your next adventure.

Transfer from Santiago hotel to Santiago airport (SCL)

Fly home!

Itinerary: Wonders of South America

DAY 1 - Rio de Janeiro - Natural beauty, Carnival, samba and bossa nova

Welcome to Brazil! Arrive in Rio de Janeiro. Reception at Rio de Janeiro airport and transfer to your hotel.

Highlight: Stay in Copacabana Beach, in front of the most famous promenade beach in the world! A design from Lisbon was the promenade’s inspiration, and all stones used to build it in 1906 came from Portugal.

At the scheduled time, Welcome meeting with your experienced local guide. We will also provide our contacts, available 24hs, taking care of the details of your trip to make your trip a once-in-a-lifetime experience!

Did you know?

- Rio de Janeiro was the capital of Brazil for almost two centuries and was once the capital of one of the largest empires in the world, Portugal. The official language of Brazil? Portuguese, of course.

- Rio is also the cradle of Samba and Bossa Nova, two of the most important cultural manifestations in the country.

Meals: no meals included today.

Accommodation: Hotel Copacabana Palace, Rio.

Optional dinner upon request. We’ll suggest our favorite places to taste the best local Brazilian dishes.

DAY 2 - Rio de Janeiro’s Postcards: Christ Statue and Sugar Loaf

Today, a day full of spectacular views awaits you. You’ll visit the Iconic Christ Redeemer Statue and the Sugar Loaf Mountain. We include a great lunch between both places so you can enjoy the local cuisine of Rio while exploring its memorable trails and views.

Highlight #1: See one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the magnificent Christ the Redeemer, the iconic statue on top of Corcovado Hill, Rio’s most famous landmark. Corcovado Hill is part of the Tijuca Forest, the largest urban forest in the world. On the way to its top is the Dona Marta belvedere, from where it is possible to see the Maracanã Stadium, the famous Guanabara Bay, and the beautiful Sugar Loaf. Once at the top of Corcovado Hill, it is possible to admire breathtaking views of Copacabana, Ipanema, Leblon, Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon, and the Botanical Garden.

Highlight #2: Every year, over a million visitors visit the famous Pão de Açúcar (Sugar Loaf Mountain), an iconic symbol of Rio de Janeiro.

You’ll journey to the top in a glass cable car. The first cable car takes passengers to the top of Urca Hill, which rises 215 meters above sea level, and it will offer you spectacular views of the entire bay and its surrounding islands.

At Urca Hill, you’ll take the second cable car to the top of Sugar Loaf, which rises 395 meters above sea level and offers a 360 degrees view of the entire city, including Botafogo and Copacabana Beaches, Corcovado Hill, and Rio’s downtown.

Meals: Breakfast and lunch with drinks.

Accommodation: Hotel Copacabana Palace, Rio.

DAY 3 - Carnival and Samba Experience

You’ll learn about the Carnival, not only as a celebration but as the most relevant competition in Brazil. The Carnival is the biggest Brazilian cultural celebration where everyone has fun regardless of their origins.

Highlight: you will go behind the scenes of the Carnival and explore the complex of Samba City, where all Samba schools have their creation warehouses. Your expert local guide will tell you about the parade and customs.

Bonus: you’ll have the opportunity to see the progress on the confection of the costumes, and you’ll even have the chance to try the outfits.

Bonus 2: Are you looking for a fun afternoon and learning to dance the Samba? You can introduce yourself to the world of Samba. Enjoy a Dance lesson and head to nightclubs to try your first steps of Samba in Rio. You’ll interact with the locals, called the “Cariocas,” who will show you how to dance the Samba.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Hotel Copacabana, Rio.

DAY 4 - From Rio to the uniqueness of Iguazu Falls, Brazil

Today, you will fly to Foz de Iguassu, Brazil. Transfer from the hotel to Rio de Janeiro's airport. Once you arrive at Foz do Iguassu Airport, your driver will meet you and take you to your hotel.

Once settled at the hotel, you will visit the Falls from the Brazilian side. The National Park do Iguaçu in Brazil was declared World Natural Heritage by UNESCO in 1986 after the nomination of the Iguazu National Park in Argentina.

The day's highlight: You’ll enjoy awe-inspiring panoramic views, visiting the only circuit of walkways in front of the Falls.

Bonus: Enjoy the afternoon at the Belmond Iguazu, Brazil; Surrounded by lush rainforest, this pastel-pink hideaway will grant you exclusive access to the park—minus the crowds.'

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Belmond Iguazu Falls.

DAY 5 - Explore the Iguazu Falls National Park Argentina

Today, you will explore Iguazu Falls National Park with your bird & nature-obsessed expert guide.

We recommend entering the Iguazu Falls Park early in the morning to increase your chances of observing the different species of birds and fauna.

Today’s highlights:

- You’ll enjoy a scenic walk with an introduction to the geological formation of the Iguazú Falls, creating a special connection between humans and the natural environment.

- Be dazzled with more than 200 waterfalls from a natural scenery that places the human being in a unique context.

- Enjoy the most diverse fauna and flora. During this day, you’ll see birds, butterflies, mammals, flowers, and plants that contribute exceptional value to this experience. The main goal of this exploration is to enjoy the time in the open air and awaken your sensations' potential toward natural sounds, colors, images, and characteristic smells of the jungle.

Bonus: A visit to the falls isn't complete with "The Great Adventure," which includes a truck ride through the jungle and navigation that will take you very close to the waterfalls. Prepare yourself to get wet! (Minimum 12 years old).

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Belmond Iguazu Falls.

DAY 6 - Iguazu Brazil, arrive in Buenos Aires, Argentina

You’ll have free time to see the Falls early in the morning in near solitude, just before the crowds arrive.

After breakfast, your transfer will wait for your drive to Puerto Iguazu Airport on the Argentine side.

Flight to Buenos Aires. Arrive at the domestic airport and transfer to your hotel.

Highlight: stay in one of our favorite neighborhoods in Buenos Aires: Recoleta.

Upon arrival, transfer to the selected hotel. Welcome meeting with our experience manager to get acquainted with the Capital city of Argentina.

We will book you in a local barbecue and Argentinian steak restaurant. Let us know if you want other specialties (vegetarian, Latin, Italian influence, etc.). Buenos Aires is one of the most exciting cities in South America. Let us know what you love, from fancy restaurants to authentic little places.

You'll discover why this large South American city is the most exciting capital in the region; among other things, Buenos Aires will amaze you with the following:

- Bookstores everywhere (locals love to read!)

- The metro system, the oldest in Latin America

- The widest street in the world: Avenida 9 de Julio

- One of the most visited attractions is a graveyard at the Recoleta Cemetery.

- And the vibrant mix of European style with South American flair.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Alvear Palace, Buenos Aires.

DAY 7 - Buenos Aires: Passionate Tango and cosmopolitan city

You’ll enjoy a fun and informative exploration of the Historic District of Buenos Aires.

We will see Buenos Aires's history through its iconic buildings in Mayo Square and then head to the San Telmo district to explore the city’s architecture in this beautiful neighborhood. You'll learn about the history of this famous neighborhood and its culinary artisans, including some of Buenos Aires' best street eateries.

Bonus: taste the best local empanadas, “choris,” and medialunas.

Bonus 2: An evening full of Tango enjoying top-class dancers and a fine dining experience paired with excellent Malbec Red wines will complement this tasty day perfectly.

Meals: Breakfast and street food lunch.

Accommodation: Alvear Palace, Buenos Aires.

DAY 8 - Buenos Aires Culture Opera House, Recoleta Cemetery, Evita’s Traces

You will visit the fantastic Teatro Colon. The Colon Theatre is the iconic Opera house of Buenos Aires and one of the most important opera houses in the world. We will continue to Recoleta Cemetery to explore this magnificent place. We will continue to Evita’s Peron’s museum to see the great collection and enjoy a pleasant lunch. We will finally head to Palermo Soho to enjoy a nice walk through its colorful streets and learn about this trendy neighborhood's street art.

Bonus 1: See the Colon Theatre from the inside and learn about the impressive architecture.

Bonus 2: Explore the Recoleta Cemetery, an “open museum” full of rich art and sculptures—an ideal place to learn a part of Argentine history.

Today’s highlight is seeing Eva Peron’s resting place at the Recoleta Cemetery.

Bonus 3: Are you looking to enjoy more Tango in Buenos Aires? What about a fun afternoon learning how to dance the Tango? Enjoy a Tango lesson and head to the Local Milonga with one of our coaches to try your first steps of Tango while you interact with the locals; they will show you how to do it properly.

(this is an optional experience we can add to your trip-let we know in advance when we design your custom trip).

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Alvear Palace, Buenos Aires.

DAY 9 - Arrive in Patagonia - the Grand Glaciers

At the scheduled time, transfer from your hotel to the domestic airport to take your flight to El Calafate, Patagonia, Argentina. Upon arrival, your private transportation will take you to your hotel.

El Calafate is a picturesque village on the southern margin of Lake Argentino in the Andean mountain range; it is the starting point of any exploration of the Glacier’s land of Patagonia.

Fun facts you should know about Patagonia:

- Patagonia spans Argentina and Chile, in the southernmost part of South America.

- It occupies 260,000 square miles in both countries.

- The region is known for dramatic mountain peaks, an abundance of glaciers, and an array of unique wildlife.

Meals: Breakfast and dinner at the Lodge

Accommodation: Eolo Lodge.

DAY 10 - Be dazzled by the Perito Moreno Glacier

Today, an unforgettable experience is waiting for you.

You’ll live the magic of the Perito Moreno Glacier, visiting the Glaciers National Park, located 70 km from El Calafate.

What makes Perito Moreno Glacier so unique?

- Argentina’s Perito Moreno Glacier contains the world's third-largest reserve of freshwater.

- Perito Moreno Glacier is one of just two glaciers in South America growing, a remarkable fact as most of the world’s glaciers are shrinking because of climate change.

- It is located in the Glaciers National Park, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

We will tailor this day for you; you’ll be able to choose the adventure that best suits depending on the season you visit the Glacier:

The classic exploration:

- Enjoy the unique landscapes of Patagonia, the Andes, and the Argentine lake. And visit the walkways to appreciate the imposing Glacier from different angles, whose detachments and continuous noises indicate a permanent advanced movement.

- You’ll sail in front of the Perito Moreno Glacier to get a closer look at the fantastic variety of colors and listen to the sounds of nature.

The Minitrekking or Big Ice Trekking:

- Be part of a highly personalized small group of travelers looking for an unforgettable adventure.

- You’ll sail before the Perito Moreno Glacier and enjoy the most spectacular ice trekking of your life!

- The Minitrekking is a softer adventure, including 1- 15-minute ice trekking, while the Big Ice offers 3-hour trekking. The difficulty of trekking is different; while the Mini trekking offers a moderately complex and full-day tour of 9 hours, the Big Ice has a higher complexity and lasts 12 hours.

- Once on the Glacier, you’ll view its cracks, sinkholes, caves, and seracs.

Bonus! We will take care of the Gourmet picnic lunch for you, which will be prepared by the lodge.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch (at the hotel or Gourmet Picnic on the Glacier), and dinner at the hotel.

Accommodation: Eolo Lodge.

DAY 11 - Trekking and navigation in the Glaciers

This unique voyage will reveal to you the hidden corners of Southern Patagonia and the majestic splendor of its glaciers.

Highlights of your day:

- You’ll enjoy a full-day sailing journey to one of the most beautiful places in Southern Patagonia, with forests, lakes, mountains, ice, and steppes with over 200 glaciers.

- You’ll be amazed by the views of the Glaciers, the second largest ice concentration on the planet: the Patagonian ice field, after Antarctica.

- Witness majestic glaciers: the “Spegazzini,” rising 135 meters above sea level, “Upsala” covering an entire valley with an approximate extension of 765 Km2 and a length of 53km, and “Perito Moreno” Glacier, constantly advancing and causing the spectacular rupture of the wall of ice, providing one of Nature’s most impressive sights.

Bonus! Wait, there is more! Food and wine lovers, enjoy this spectacular day at the exclusive Premium deck on the upper level, tasting a gourmet lunch with excellent wines from Argentina.

Meals: Breakfast, Gourmet Lunch with wines, and dinner at the hotel.

Accommodation: Eolo Lodge.

DAY 12 - From El Calafate to Puerto Natales. From the Argentine Glaciers to the Chilean Glaciers.

Transfer from El Calafate to Puerto Natales, and transfer to your hotel.

Puerto Natales it the main gate to visit Torres del Paine National Park.

DAY 13 - Torres del Paine, Mother's nature at best

Torres del Paine National Park is known for its soaring mountains, bright blue icebergs that cleave from glaciers, and golden pampas (grasslands) that rare shelter wildlife such as llama-like guanacos.

How you’ll explore Torres del Paine: Today:

You’ll explore this gorgeous place at your own pace. Our team will assist you in coordinating this day's experience in advance to discover the 8th World Natural Wonder through adventurous treks with different levels of difficulty and duration or with a leisurely pace, such as a photo safari.

Bonus: Seeing one of its most iconic sites: “Cuernos del Paine,” the three granite towers from which the park takes its name and the horn-shaped peaks.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: The Singular Patagonia

DAY 14 - From Patagonia to Santiago de Chile

Saying goodbye to Patagonia is hard! Today your private transportation will drive you to Puerto Natales airport. Upon arrival, your friendly driver will welcome you and take you to your hotel in Santiago de Chile, where you will spend the next two nights.

More Fun Facts You Should Know about Chile:

- Chile is one of the longest and narrowest countries in the world
- Chile is the sixth-largest producer of wine globally.
- Chile’s national liquor is called “pisco.”
- Chile’s national poet “Pablo Neruda,” received the Nobel Prize in Literature.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: The Singular, Santiago de Chile.

DAY 15: Visit to our favorite markets in Santiago

You’ll kick off the day with a visit to our favorite markets in Santiago to pick up the ingredients needed for today’s memorable culinary experience. La Vega Market is known for its vegetables, meat, and fruits; you’ll see the Historic Central Market, famous for the fresh fish, and the Quincalleria Bio Bio market, offering all you need, incredibly unique fruits.

At our picked local Restaurant, savor pisco sour and a selection of Chilean wines while the Chef leads the cooking lesson that will introduce you to quintessential Chilean dishes.

Good to know: Depending on the day of the week you visit Santiago de Chile, you’ll see other fabulous little markets unique to Santiago.

Bonus 1: After your fantastic lunch, visit Santiago’s main attractions.

Bonus 2: Savour the delights of a day, well spent over your gourmet dinner at one of Santiago’s best restaurants (we will offer our restaurant suggestions and book a table for you upon request).

Meals: Breakfast and Lunch with drinks and wines.

Accommodation: The Singular, Santiago de Chile

DAY 16 - Valparaiso and Vina del Mar Food and Cultural Journey

From Santiago, eat to the coast and back with this tour that will give you a glimpse and a taste of Valparaiso and Viña del Mar.

Highlights you’ll enjoy today:

- Explore the Coastal Mountain ranges through the picturesque Curacavi Valley and Casablanca wine region to Valparaiso.

- You will see beautiful old buildings reflecting the lost wealth of the past

- ride one of Valparaiso’s famous antique funiculars servicing the winding and colorful hilltop streets of Cerros Alegre and Concepcion.

While you wander the many cobble streets, passages, and staircases, you’ll learn about Valparaiso’s golden years as one of the wealthiest cities in the world and the most important port in South America; and its sad decline after the opening of the Panama Canal.

Bonus 1: Along the way, you will have the chance to sample some of Chile’s favorite foods; a famous South American cookie, Chile’s favorite food, craft beer, other Chilean dishes, and Chile’s favorite dessert - ice cream, with a flavor you may have never seen before.

Bonus 2: This tasty day trip finishes with a well-deserved rest, a traditional Pisco Sour, and “picoteo” (snack) of Chilean products

You’ll return to Santiago for a quick look around Viña del Mar and a last view of the Pacific before dropping you at your hotel.

Meals: Breakfast and Lunch with stops for tasting different foods, including drinks and Pisco Sour.

Accommodation: The Singular, Santiago de Chile

DAY 17 - Santiago de Chile - Lima, Peru Gastronomic Capital

Say goodbye to Chile. Today transfer to Buenos Aires International Airport for your flight to Lima, Peru. Upon arrival, your private transportation will take you to your hotel.

The highlight of your visit to Peru:

- You’ll witness how the Inca descendants have successfully and proudly preserved their culture and traditions.

- The Quechua and the Aymara are the two primary native cultures of Peru, and they still speak their native languages.

Good to know for your visit to Lima: Make sure you try the local food! Lima is considered the Gastronomic Capital of Latin America.

A personalized historical and culinary visit to Lima, the capital of Peru, is the first highlight of this fantastic trip’s leg!

What you’ll do:

- You’ll enjoy the most spectacular view of the Pacific Ocean when you visit the famous Love Park in Miraflores, followed by the city center visit.

- Food Lovers! Taste different meals and Peruvian drinks in Barranco, the neighborhood bohemian from Lima.

- You’ll have a great time learning to prepare the famous ceviche and pisco sour, taste the lomo saltado and participate in a fruit and chocolate tasting.

Meals: Breakfast. Dinner with drinks and Cocktails.

Accommodation: Hotel B

DAY 18 - Lima - Cusco, a gem of a city

After breakfast, your private transportation will take you to Lima’s airport for your flight to Cusco. Upon arrival, our friendly local representative will wait for you to take you to your hotel.

The highlight of your day: You are high up in the Peruvian Andes! Cusco was once the center of the Incan Empire. It is the launching point for Machu Picchu – Peru's largest tourist attraction - but the city is well worth a visit to acclimate and experience the mix of the Incan and Spanish influences that define it.

After checking in at the hotel, you’ll meet your local expert guide for a personalized visit to the imperial city of Cuzco, a place with abundant ancient Inca culture.

You’ll explore the best archeological remains from the Incan times in the surroundings of Cusco. We also suggest that you spend some time seeing the great Colonial Art sites such as The Cathedral, famous for its gold and silver baroque style; Qoricancha, the Temple of the Sun;

Meals: Breakfast.

Accommodation: Palacio Nazarenas, A Belmond Hotel.

DAY 19 - Inca's Sacred Valley explorer

Enjoy today a visit to the Inca´s Sacred Valley: Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Chincheros, Maras, and Moray. You’ll travel crossing beautiful Quebradas, rivers, and a colorful landscape that allows you to appreciate archaeological monuments and indigenous towns with the beautiful Inca culture.

Highlights you’ll enjoy today:

- Get to see a special place that was once the Inca center of religious ceremonies, which included enormous palaces, estates, and a temple, the Sacred Valley; Be transported in time while you visit the Ollantaytambo and Pisac Ruin.

- You are seeing one of the largest salt extraction centers of prehispanic origin in the region of Cusco and of the current territory of Peru: the salt mines of Maras.

- See a mysterious archeological site that used to be used as an experimental farm by the Incas over 500 years ago.

DAY 20 - Conquering Machu Picchu, a wonder of the ancient world

Today, we will head to Machu Picchu, located only 50 miles from Cuzco; however, it’s not the most straightforward place to get to.

Fun facts about Machu Picchu:

- Machu Picchu is a symbol of the Incan Empire, built around 1450AD;

- UNESCO designated Machu Picchu a World Heritage Site in 1983 and was named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007.

- “Machu Picchu” means “Old Peak” or “Old Mountain” in the Quechua Indian language.

How you’ll get to Machu Picchu:

On this trip, You’ll travel by train towards the station of Aguas Calientes; You’ll arrive after a 4-hour journey and a short bus ride for a 30-minute uphill ride up to the entrance of the fabulous Machu Picchu citadel.

There are different categories of trains: we suggest the Vistadome, which will offer you great views during the journey. For a luxurious experience, we can upgrade to the Hiram Bingham for an extra fee.

A day you will never forget.

The best way to Visit Machu Picchu is with an expert local guide. You will admire the Ruin’s stairways, temples, sanctuaries, and terraces, and you’ll understand how Machu Picchu is a testament to the power and ingenuity of the Inca empire.

Relax! There is no rush since you’ll spend the night in Aguas Calientes; there is plenty of time for you to enjoy the ruins at your own pace. In addition, you will be able to do some extra exploration the following day.

Accommodation: Belmond Sanctuary Lodge.

DAY 21 - Machu Picchu, Aguas Calientes, Cusco

Before returning to Cusco, you will have some free time to rest or walk around Aguas Calientes.

If you want to revisit Machu Picchu Ruins or climb Huayna Picchu (limited places - book in advance), it is possible to do it during this free morning; however, you’ll need another admission ticket we can include with anticipation.

During the afternoon, you’ll travel back to Cusco for your last night in the city.

Meals: Breakfast.

Accommodation: Palacio Nazarenas, A Belmond Hotel.

DAY 22 - Cusco - Farewell!

Today is the end of this fantastic 14-day journey through the most amazing places in South America.

Your transportation will take you to the airport at the scheduled departure for your flight back home. We can include a late check-out at the hotel so you can conveniently organize your return; you can also leave the luggage at the hotel and enjoy some free time before your departure.

(Your late checkout involves an additional charge and will be subject to availability).

Meals: Breakfast.

Accommodation: Palacio Nazarenas, A Belmond Hotel (check out 10 am).

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"A journey is best measured in friends, rather than miles."
Tim Cahill
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