Embark on the ultimate 21-day South America adventure that’s sure to be the trip of a lifetime. This small group tour is your chance to discover destinations that are brimming with rare wildlife, breathtaking natural wonders, UNESCO-listed cultural treasures and more.
Kick off your journey in the bustling metropolis of Lima, Peru, before jetting off to the ancient Inca capital of Cusco. Immerse yourself in Andean traditions as you learn the art of weaving in Chincheros, marvel at the panoramic vistas of Sacred Valley and explore the historic Citadel of Pisac. Prepare to be awestruck by the magnificent Temple of the Sun in Ollantaytambo before taking an expedition train to the town of Aguas Calientes and its thermal baths. Wake early to head to Machu Picchu where you’ll witness a spectacular sunrise and uncover the mysteries of this ancient citadel on a guided tour. Take an international flight to Quito, Ecuador, where you’ll journey north to stand with a foot in each hemisphere, indulge your sweet tooth with a guided tour of a chocolate factory and hike alongside waterfalls in the enchanting Mindo cloud forest. Explore handicraft markets in the world-famous indigenous town of Otavalo, sip a refreshing Andean cocktail in Pinsaquí and set sail with a scenic boat ride on Cuicocha Crater Lake for a glimpse of exciting volcanic activity. Later you’ll help locals prepare a delicious lunch using fresh products, soak in the open-air hot springs at Papallacta and admire the towering Cotopaxi which is one of the highest active volcanoes in the world.
You’ll then take a flight to the iconic Galapagos Islands where Santa Cruz, Isla Lobos and San Cristobal await. Here you’ll get up close and personal with giant Galapagos tortoises, snorkel with playful sea lions on a half-day tour of Academy Bay, gain insight into conservation efforts at the Charles Darwin Research Station and more.
This package includes return international full-service flights, all internal flights, 18 nights of hotel accommodation, 21 meals including daily breakfast and more.
Want more? Add extra days to your itinerary with Arrive Early in Lima, Peru and Stay Behind in Quito, Ecuador packages.
Please note: Extra charges may apply, see the Important Info section and checkout cart for fees and details
Today you’ll depart from Australia (or New Zealand) for Lima, Peru, to start your epic adventure. Upon arrival, a tour representative will be waiting to transfer you to the hotel where you can enjoy the remainder of your day at leisure.
Please note:
• Due to flight scheduling and availability, some departures may occur on Day 0. Affected customers must be available to depart the day before. Flight times will be indicated on your final documents at least 4-6 weeks prior to departure.
• Some customers may experience an extended layover. Lounge passes may be purchased at your own expense.
Overnight: Costa Del Sol Wyndham Lima Airport or similar, Lima, Peru
Meals included: In-Flight
This morning you'll be transferred to the airport for your flight to Cusco, Peru. Upon arrival, you'll be met by a tour representative to drive onwards to the Sacred Valley, where you can enjoy lunch in a local restaurant (not included).
Afterwards, you'll travel to the village of Chincheros which is northwest of Cusco. This picturesque village was an important Inca centre and is known for the traditional Andean weaving techniques that are still used by its people. Wearing traditional clothes, the people of Chincheros meet in the Main Square to sell colourful local handicrafts to visitors. Here you'll have the opportunity to learn about traditional weaving techniques and also do a bit of souvenir shopping.
You'll then travel onwards to Urubamba and check into the hotel before enjoying the remainder of the day at leisure.
Please note: For your stay in Aguas Calientes the following day, you will only be allowed to bring an overnight bag due to the luggage and space limitations on the expedition train. It is highly recommended to pre-pack a smaller bag with just the essentials needed for the overnight portion in Aguas Calientes. The remainder of your luggage will be securely kept with the tour operator in Cusco at no additional cost.
Overnight: Hotel Augusto Urubamba or similar, Urubamba, Peru
Meals included: Breakfast
This morning, you'll descend 1500 feet to the valley floor where you'll find yourself by the sacred Urubamba River and the village of Pisac. Here you'll enjoy a quick visit to a traditional market where you can browse and buy local souvenirs if desired. Afterwards, you'll drive to the ruins of Pisac where you can explore the extensive ruins while taking in stunning views over the beautiful valley. Enjoy a guided tour of the Citadel of Pisac where you'll see temples, homes, altars, carvings, tunnels, caves and the famous Intihuatana ritual stone.
You'll then continue back towards Urubamba where there will be a stop for lunch (not included) before a short drive onwards to Ollantaytambo which is surrounded by the sacred mountains. Here, you'll enjoy further exposure to Inca constructions such as the amazing temple of the sun, enormous blocks of perfectly carved rock, stone water fountains, stairs and terraces. You'll also have the chance to observe the beauty of the local people in their traditional dress.
In the afternoon, you’ll transfer to Ollantaytambo Train Station (approximately 45 minutes) and board the expedition train bound for Aguas Calientes, a beautiful thermal town down the valley from the ancient citadel of Machu Picchu. The two-hour train journey is a memorable experience as you pass through river canyons and rolling hills before being met by your guide and transferred to the hotel upon arrival.
Overnight: Casa Andina Machu Picchu, Aguas Calientes, Peru
Meals included: Breakfast
After an early breakfast, a local guide will pick you up from the hotel to begin the short bus ride to the gates of Machu Picchu where you may have the opportunity (weather permitting) to enjoy one of the most spectacular sunrises of your life. Once you've entered the Citadel, you will begin a guided walking tour (approximately 2 hours), learning about the history of the area and the ruins. You can then enjoy free time to explore this mysterious ancient city at leisure or can choose to participate in an optional activity. Afterwards, you will take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included) and board the train to Poroy where, on arrival, you will be met and transferred by road back to your hotel in Cusco for the remainder of your afternoon.
Optional Tour: Huayna Picchu
There is time for those with enough energy to climb Wayna (Huayna) Picchu, the mountain behind Machu Picchu. For many people, climbing Huayna Picchu is one of the highlights when visiting Machu Picchu. The climb itself is interesting as you will see how the Incas cut out steps from the rocks as you wind around the side of a mountain. This is your chance to marvel at the majestic sights of Machu Picchu from different angles! Please see current pricing in Important Information.
Please note: This additional trek requires a high/active level of fitness.
Overnight: Costa del Sol Wyndham or similar, Cusco, Peru
Meals included: Breakfast
After breakfast, enjoy a day at leisure to explore Cusco, the capital city of the Inca empire that is now the undisputed archaeological capital of the Americas, as well as the continent’s oldest continuously inhabited city. You can choose to relax and explore the city at your own pace or participate in an optional activity.
Optional Activity: Classic Cooking Class
After breakfast, you’ll be picked up from your hotel and transferred to the local home of your chef where you’ll get a brief explanation of the day's activities and receive appropriate clothing and tools for the class. You’ll learn traditional preparation techniques of Peruvian local cuisine, presented by experienced chefs. Enjoy and immerse yourself in your local chef's culinary stories and experiences as you learn how to prepare incredible local dishes. After the class, you’ll gather around the dining table of your chef's home and enjoy a delicious home-cooked meal. Please see current pricing in Important Information.
Optional Activity: Folklore Show & Dinner
Tonight you'll head to the Tunupa Restaurant, located just past the central Plaza de Armas of Cusco (a short walk from the hotel) for an unforgettable buffet dinner. You'll find a large selection of typical dishes including meat, fish, vegetables and desserts. The night becomes even more enjoyable when the traditional dance show begins and you can get involved with folk, traditional and classical music. You'll love the sounds of Andean instruments such as the Quena, charango, flute and zampoña. Join in on the festivities and also share the dance floor with the dancers for an unforgettable experience. Please see current pricing in Important Information.
Overnight: Costa del Sol Wyndham or similar, Cusco, Peru
Meals included: Breakfast
Today you'll be transferred to the airport for your one-way international flight via Lima to Quito, the capital of Ecuador. On arrival, you will be welcomed and transferred to the hotel. In the evening, you'll meet your tour leader in the hotel lobby for a welcome briefing. At this time, you will discuss the details and any questions you may have regarding the upcoming journey through Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands before enjoying the remainder of the evening at leisure.
Overnight: Sheraton Quito or similar, Quito, Ecuador
Meals included: Breakfast
Today is yours free at leisure to enjoy Quito, the largest, best-preserved colonial city of America which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978. The city is considered the cultural capital of South America and is located on the equator in a valley at the foothills of the Pichincha Volcano so there's plenty to discover or you can take the opportunity to join an optional city tour (not included).
Optional Activity: Full-Day Quito City Tour
Enjoy a truly unique experience in the heart of Quito city and discover its history from a local eye as you walk around its narrow streets visiting the most iconic buildings. This includes the Golden Church, San Francisco Square and the Main Square. You'll visit Luis's local workshop “Cruz Verde”, a well-known artisan whose family has prepared the local candy “colaciones” for the last 100 years. For lunch, you will have the opportunity to sit with locals and enjoy a tasty meal freshly prepared using local products and flavours. In the afternoon, you will walk on the colourful Ronda Street where you can enjoy a giant empanada before going to Panecillo Hill to enjoy a panoramic view of Quito. Please see current pricing in Important Information.
Please note: This optional activity includes hotel-to-hotel transport, local lunch and an English-speaking guide.
Optional Activity - Pichincha Volcano Cable Car
If you like heights and want a spectacular panoramic view of Quito and the snow-capped mountains that surround the city, the best option is to hop on a cable car. In a traditional cabin, you will be able to admire the whole city and the Pichincha Volcano. After ascending to 4,000 metres above sea level, you'll enjoy walking in the open air, hiking on various trails, enjoying views of the city or climbing the Pichincha Volcano. Please see current pricing in Important Information.
Please note:
• This optional activity includes return hotel transfers and an English-speaking guide but doesn't include the cable car fee (approximately $10 USD per person, subject to change).
• The weather can change suddenly, so it is advisable to wear the appropriate clothing, a windbreaker, non-slip shoes and comfortable clothing that protects against possible rain and cold wind.
• This optional activity can also be enjoyed on Day 18 if you prefer.
Overnight: Sheraton Quito or similar, Quito, Ecuador
Meals included: Breakfast
Today you'll drive north of Quito to the Ecuador monument complex before visiting the 'middle of the world' which is a must when in Ecuador. It’s the place where you will be able to stand on both sides of the hemispheres, north and south at the same time and feel the neutral forces of the equator.
On the way, you'll stop for a view of the Pululahua Crater, the third-biggest inhabited volcano crater in the world with a population of more than 400 people. Then you will continue onwards to the little town of Mindo, a village in the Andes Mountains that's known for the many bird species, butterflies and orchids found in the surrounding cloud forest.
In the afternoon, take the opportunity to enjoy a guided tour of a chocolate factory where you will have the chance to follow the process of cocoa from harvesting the seed to the final product. Here you may also enjoy a delicious brownie or a cup of hot cocoa before transferring to the hotel and enjoy being situated in the middle of the beautiful cloud forest.
Overnight: El Septimo Paraiso or similar, Mindo, Ecuador
Meals included: Breakfast
After breakfast, you’ll explore the pristine cloud forest, crossing cable cars and hiking along waterfalls during a moderate hike (approximately 20 minutes) while being surrounded by a lush green forest that's filled with toucans and colourful birds.
One of the highlights of today is also the opportunity to visit a butterfly farm that's located on a private reserve called ‘Mariposas of Mindo’. Here you can watch gargantuan butterflies dry their wings after emerging from their jewel-like cocoons before dipping your fingers into a banana concoction and watching as unique butterflies land on your hands for a snack.
In the afternoon, enjoy free time to explore the several optional activities offered in this area. You can participate in whitewater tubing (several large inner tubes tied together) as your guides steer you through thrilling rapids, or try canopy zip-lining where you’ll sail along one of 13 zip-lines over the beautiful canopy of the cloud forest.
Please note: These optional activities are at your own expense and paid directly to the tour operator whilst on tour.
Overnight: El Septimo Paraiso or similar, Mindo, Ecuador
Meals included: Breakfast
The day starts with a unique scenic drive back up to the highlands where you will reach the Pan-American Highway that travels north to the world-famous indigenous town of Otavalo. Enjoy time to stroll along the narrow cobblestone streets which are filled with Otavalo indigenous people wearing the typical blue ponchos and explore the handicraft market with its wonderful textiles, native paintings, ceramics, jewellery, tapestries and more.
In the afternoon, you'll drive to Cotacachi which was made famous for its production of amazing leather goods and its beauty as a small village. You will have free time to explore the shops or simply stop and enjoy one of the best coffees in Ecuador at the main square. Later, you'll arrive at the historical hacienda of Pinsaquí and enjoy a typical Andean cocktail as a welcome before learning about the history of Hacienda.
Overnight: Hacienda Palmeras or similar, Otavalo, Ecuador
Meals included: Breakfast
Today, you'll start the day with a visit to Cotacahi-Cayapas Ecological Reserve to witness the breathtaking scenery of the crystalline-clear waters of this active volcano and the amazing surrounding landscapes. At the end of a short hike, enjoy a boat ride on Cuicocha Crater Lake to the centre of the crater to observe the activity of the volcano such as bubbles coming up from the centre of the caldera.
Later, you’ll make your way to Pijal, a small village located in the heart of the Andes where you will have an unforgettable cultural experience as you immerse yourself in the true spirit of the South American Highlands. You’ll spend time with local women from the village and learn about their lifestyle and knowledge of textiles and culinary traditions from past generations. You’ll also get to help the locals prepare a delicious lunch using fresh products harvested the same day from the surrounding organic fields and share with them precious moments of conviviality.
In the late afternoon, you'll reach the luxury volcanic hot-springs resort of Papallacta where you will have the chance to relax and enjoy the facilities surrounded by views of the majestic Andean mountains.
Overnight: Papallacta Spa & Resort or similar, Papallacta, Ecuador
Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch
This morning, enjoy the chance to take one last dip in the open-air hot springs before driving south on the Pan-American Highway towards one of the highest active volcanoes in the world, Cotopaxi. The snow-capped volcano is surrounded by national park and is home to abundant plant life, rich fauna and Inca ruins. You will begin at the Interpretation Centre which is at the park’s entrance, before continuing across the páramo to Limpiopungo Lake. During a short walk around the lake, observe a variety of birds and enjoy the stunning views of the almost symmetrical cone of Cotopaxi.
Afterwards, you'll continue back to Quito where you will check into the hotel and enjoy the remainder of the evening at leisure.
Overnight: Sheraton Quito or similar, Quito, Ecuador
Meals included: Breakfast
After breakfast today, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to the Island of Baltra in the Galapagos Islands. On arrival you will be picked up and transferred to Santa Cruz, a nearby island, crossing the narrow Itabaca channel by ferry before continuing by car. Your first stop will be at the highlands of Santa Cruz, the “Parte Alta”, as the highlands are called in Spanish, are very lush and home to the iconic giant Galapagos tortoises. Here you will visit a private ranch where you will enjoy lunch before heading out on a walk in search of the giant tortoises.
During this visit, you will also visit lava tubes which are formed when the surface of a lava stream solidifies but the inside remains liquid and flows out like a river. After this tour, you will continue by private transport to the hotel where you will have a meet and greet with a local guide who will explain the following day's itinerary to you before you can enjoy the rest of the evening at leisure.
Overnight: Hotel Fiesta or similar, Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz, Galapagos
Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch
Today, after breakfast, you will enjoy a half-day tour of Academy Bay where you can swim and snorkel with sea lions and all kinds of colourful fish. Here you can also see the blue-footed boobies who are resting at the edge of the cliffs. Afterwards, you can climb to a nearby viewpoint and, if you are lucky, you'll see white-tipped reef sharks swimming in the ocean below. You'll then take a walk to ‘Playa de los Perros’ where many sea iguanas can often be found resting in the sun. You'll find that the enormous cacti, the red colour of the rocks and the turquoise colour of the ocean make for great photo opportunities.
Please note:
• It's recommended to pack sun protection, a bathing suit, a towel, a camera and comfortable walking shoes for today's tour.
• Optional snorkel equipment will be provided free of charge to anyone who wishes to use it.
Overnight: Hotel Fiesta or similar, Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz, Galapagos
Meals included: Breakfast
This morning you'll visit the Charles Darwin Research Station to learn more about many of the endemic species seen in the wild, as well as the ongoing conservation and management efforts on the Galapagos Islands. In the afternoon you will be met and transferred from the hotel to the dock of Santa Cruz from where you will take a boat (approximately 2 hours) to the island of San Cristobal.
Upon arrival at the dock in San Cristobal, you will be transferred to the hotel in the town of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. Here you will have a meet and greet with another local guide who will explain the rest of your itinerary to you before you can enjoy the remainder of the evening at leisure on this stunning island.
Overnight: Hotel Galapagos Planet or similar, Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, San Cristobal, Galapagos
Meals included: Breakfast
After breakfast this morning, you will be met and transferred to a dock where you will take a short boat ride to the nearby Isla Lobos. During this boat trip, you will observe a lot of sea life before even setting foot on the island. Upon arrival, enjoy a guided tour where you will have the chance to observe frigate birds, blue-footed boobies and sea lions that all inhabit the island. Afterwards, you will have time for swimming or snorkelling in the beautiful waters.
You'll then continue onwards to a nearby beach in San Cristobal where you may enjoy an included packed lunch and some time at leisure. The white coral beaches of San Cristobal are great for walking around, relaxing and swimming in the shallow waters before returning to Puerto Baquerizo Moreno.
Overnight: Hotel Galapagos Planet or similar, Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, San Cristobal, Galapagos
Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch
Enjoy free time this morning before transferring to the airport of San Cristobal where you'll take a quick flight back to Ecuador's mainland. Upon arrival in Quito, you will be collected from the airport and transferred to the hotel.
Overnight: Sheraton Quito or similar, Quito, Ecuador
Meals included: Breakfast
Today, enjoy a free day at leisure to explore Quito at your own pace or participate in an optional activity.
Optional Activity: Full-Day Mindo Cloud Forest’s Waterfalls, Tubing & Coffee Tour
If you couldn’t get enough of the Mindo Cloud Forest during your first visit, why not enjoy another full-day adventure exploring this amazing forest? You’ll have an early start and be picked up from your hotel at approximately 05:30 to drive through beautiful landscapes before arriving in Alambi. You’ll then hike to the Alambi Waterfall and enjoy a relaxing swim before heading to a hummingbird bird sanctuary, one of the best hummingbird gardens in Quito. Afterwards, your adventure continues with water tubbing in Mindo before enjoying a delicious traditional lunch. You'll then finish the day off with an amazing coffee tour learning about the process of harvesting and production before tasting authentic Ecuadorian coffee. Please see current pricing in Important Information.
Optional Activity: Pichincha Volcano Cable Car
If you like heights and want a spectacular panoramic view of Quito and the snow-capped mountains that surround the city, the best option is to hop on a cable car. In a traditional cabin, you will be able to admire the whole city and the Pichincha Volcano. After ascending to 4,000 metres above sea level, you'll enjoy walking in the open air, hiking on various trails, enjoying views of the city or climbing the Pichincha Volcano. Please see current pricing in Important Information.
Please note:
• This optional activity includes return hotel transfers and an English-speaking guide but doesn't include the cable car fee (subject to change).
• The weather can change suddenly, so it is advisable to wear the appropriate clothing, a windbreaker, non-slip shoes and comfortable clothing that protects against possible rain and cold wind.
• This optional activity can also be enjoyed on Day 7 if you prefer.
Overnight: Sheraton Quito or similar, Quito, Ecuador
Meals included: Breakfast
Today you will be transferred to Quito International Airport for your return flight back to Australia (or New Zealand).
Please note:
• Due to limited flight availability between Australia (or New Zealand) and South America, some customers may experience a layover of up to 7 hours in Lima, Peru, or Santiago, Chile. Lounge passes can be purchased at your own expense.
• A Santiago stopover package is available for travellers who want to break up their journey in Chile on the way home. Please see the important information for further information.
Meals included: Breakfast; In-Flight
Sit back, relax and reminisce on the memories created over the past weeks on your trip through South America.
Once arrived in Australia (or New Zealand), make your own onward travel arrangements.
International Full-Service Airline(s)
• Cabin Class: Economy class
Please note: We cannot accommodate one-way flights. Travellers must take all included flights within the package, and any flights intentionally forfeited will result in later flights being subject to cancellation.
Domestic Airline(s) Used
• Cabin Class: Economy class.
Route
• Lima to Cusco (Peru)
• Cusco, Peru to Quito, Ecuador
• Quito to Baltra (Ecuador)
• San Cristobal to Quito (Ecuador)
Missed Flights
If you fail to arrive for your outbound flight, you risk all flight and land arrangements in your destination being automatically cancelled by the airlines and land operator, respectively. Additional fees may apply to reinstate these services. If you miss your flight for whatever reason, please contact us as soon as possible to make arrangements.
Arrive Early & Stay Behind Options
Arrive Early
Lima, Peru - From $300 per person, subject to availability.
Stay Behind
Quito, Ecuador - From $300 per person, subject to availability.
Santiago, Chile From $300 per person, subject to availability.
Please note:
• This fee does not include extra nights' accommodation, meals or airport transfers.
• If you select to Arrive Early or Stay Behind in a city other than the one where the tour starts or ends, the package will include an internal flight to your destination. If you wish to forfeit this flight, please advise our friendly team at the time of purchase. Please note that the cost does not change when you choose to forfeit your connecting flight.
• Flight booking changes or cancellations after air tickets have been issued are not guaranteed and may incur additional fees and fare difference, subject to the airline cancellation and change policies.
• Flight changes are subject to availability at the time of booking.
• A high-season Arrive Early or Stay Behind can be purchased for an additional charge, subject to availability. For pricing, please refer to the cart.
• An Arrive Early or Stay Behind can only be booked up to 60 days prior to your package’s start date, or after your package's end date. Should you wish to arrive earlier or stay behind for more than 60 days, please contact us to request availability. Additional costs may apply.
• High season surcharges apply to flights departing between the below date ranges:
28 March 2025 - 27 April 2025
16 June 2025 - 20 July 2025
15 September 2025 - 12 October 2025
1 December 2025 - 31 January 2026
3 April 2026 - 20 April 2026
26 June 2026 - 17 July 2026
18 September 2026 - 9 October 2026
12 December 2026 - 26 January 2027
Stopover Packages
• Santiago, Chile
Includes:
• 2, 3 or 5 nights in 4-star accommodation
• Daily breakfast
• Return airport transfers
For pricing, please refer to the payment cart at checkout.
Please note:
• When a pre and post-tour stopover is chosen, the same stopover location must be chosen each way, due to the airline used.
• When selecting an Arrive Early or Stay Behind in conjunction with a Stopover Package, the stopover will take place after the departure date you select for your Arrive Early or Stay Behind.
• Stopover packages are subject to availability.
• In the event that a purchased stopover package and a purchased preferred airline upgrade are not compatible, you will have the option to receive a refund for the preferred airline upgrade or be offered an alternative stopover city option, e.g if you choose to fly with Singapore Airlines you cannot stopover in Dubai.
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