Taste of Peru & Chile with Rio

5 Nights – Santiago, Valparaíso, Beaches & Vineyards
5 Nights – Cuzco (Machu Picchu)
2 Nights – Lima
4 Nights – Rio de Janeiro

UK – Santiago (3 nights): Next you will fly to Chile’s capital, Santiago, although it’s up to you how you split your stay in Chile. We recommend staying 3 nights in Santiago first. Framed by the famous San Cristóbal and Santa Lucía hills, Santiago is known for its 22 funiculars and rewarding, high-perched views. Stroll the bohemian Barrio Bellavista neighbourhood and visit the Catedral Metropolitana shadowing the main Plaza de Armas square. Shopaholics and spice lovers are catered-to at endless malls and markets.

🚗 Santiago – Valparaíso / Viña del Mar (2 nights) – Optional wine tour: Next we’ll drive you to the coast for the perfect relaxing end to your South American adventure. You can either stay in Valparaíso or Viña del Mar, or even split your stay, however they are close and connected by a tram, so it’s easy to base yourself in one location and explore both destinations. The UNESCO world heritage city of Valparaíso is known for its bohemian culture, brightly painted houses and beautiful coastal setting. You can explore the city’s famous street art and hill-set neighbourhoods of Cerro Alegre and Concepción, and enjoy its endless array of restaurants and bars.  The neighbouring beachside city of Viña del Mar boasts a long golden beach, lined with restaurants and larger hotels.

Santiago – Cuzco (5 nights):  When your stay in Chile comes to an end we’ll return you back to Santiago for a flight to Cuzco in Peru, a fascinating city that serves as both an incredible destination in its own right and the gateway to Machu Picchu.  Cuzco will be your base as you adjust to the high altitude before you set out to discover the ancient wonders of Machu Picchu.  While you’re getting used to the high altitude, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the historic landmarks in and around Cuzco including the impressive Sacsayhuamán fortress and the sacred Qorikancha temple. Additionally, we include a day trip to the Sacred Valley with its ancient Inca ruins, traditional Andean villages, and stunning scenery of the surrounding terraced fields and mountains. After 2 days acclimatising, you’ll be ready to explore Machu Picchu. We’ll included a scenic train ride through the breath-taking Andean landscape, however for the more adventurous, we can organise a trek along the renowned Inca Trail. Perched high above in the rugged mountains of the Andes, Machu Picchu is a testament to the sheer ingenuity of the Inca civilisation. The precision with which the stones were cut and fitted, the sophisticated water management systems, and the breath-taking location all highlight the exceptional craftsmanship and planning that went into its creation in the 15^th century. Wander through the ancient pathways, enjoy the views and visit key landmarks such as Temple of the Sun, the Intihuatana stone, and the stunning Inca Bridge. Whether you arrive by train or on foot, exploring Machu Picchu will undoubtedly be a highlight of your trip.

 Cuzco – Lima (2 nights): A direct flight from Cuzco will bring you to Lima, the capital of Peru situated along the Pacific Ocean, and often referred to as the ‘gastronomic capital of Latin America’.  Some of the best views of the ocean can be found while wandering along the Miraflores boardwalk, with its great selection of restaurants, lush parks and sculptures such as the iconic ‘El Beso,’ (The Kiss).  Head to the grand Plaza Mayor with its impressive cathedrals and also visit the Larco Museum, with its collection of art and artefacts from Peru’s ancient civilisations.  For the best glimpses of local culture, wander through the vibrant area of Barranco, and also head to the Central Market where you can experience a variety of exotic produce and street food. Finally, don’t miss Chinatown, where Peruvian and Chinese flavours combine to create delicious fusion cuisine.

Lima – Rio de Janeiro (4 nights):   Rio de Janeiro makes a spectacular finale to your South American adventure. It’s a city full of energy where you can dive into samba rhythms, relax on sun-soaked beaches, and enjoy iconic landmarks such as Sugarloaf Mountain and Christ the Redeemer. When it comes to beaches, head to Copacabana for a spot of people-watching or Ipanema for chic boutiques, trendy cafes, and nightlife. No trip to Rio is complete without seeing the impressive Christ the Redeemer statue. Take the scenic Corcovado Railway through the Tijuca Forest, the world’s largest urban rainforest to reach the statue, taking in the stunning views along the way. Explore Rio’s blend of colonial and modern architecture, including the striking Metropolitan Cathedral of São Sebastião by Oscar Niemeyer and don’t miss a cable car ride up Sugarloaf Mountain for the panoramic views of beaches, streets, and rainforests.

 Rio – UK: At the end of your adventure we’ll return you back to Rio airport, for your last flight of the holiday, to take you back to the UK.