12 DAYS BEST OF SOUTH AMERICA

12 DAYS 11 NIGHTS
Places Covered:
CUSCO – SACRED VALLEY – AGUAS CALIENTE – BUENOS AIRES – PUERTO IGUAZU – RIO DE JANEIRO

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Day 1: CUSCO: HD CITY TOUR & ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITES

Welcome to Cusco! Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983, this colonial city is currently one of Peru’s most popular destinations. It is a must stop to visit Machu Picchu, one of the New World Seven Wonders and host of the ruins of the Inca civilization and the most spectacular landscapes on the planet. Upon arrival at Cusco Airport, a transportation service will wait for you and will transfer you to your hotel. You will be accompanied by a guide who will inform you about the attractions and services that the city has to offer. Enjoy a guided tour of this charming city and learn about the fascinating Inca Empire. Discover the insights of this lost civilization visiting the famous Qoricacha temple, the Plaza de Armas and its Cathedral and other important monument along the city. Head to the top of the city to visit the remains of the fortresses of Sacsayhuaman and Puka Pukara with stunning panoramic view of Cusco

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Day 2: FD MARAS & MORAY/ SACRED VALLEY

Discover the beautiful colonial town of Chincheros and the spectacular Inca sites of Maras and Moray. Start your morning at the fascinating Maras Salt mines which feature more than 100 small pools fed by a salt-water mountain spring that is interconnected by channels. Be fascinated by the mysteries of the Incan civilization and hold your breath while learning about this interesting and never equaled culture. In the afternoon, head along a dirt road towards another typical Andean village called Moray; famed for being an Inca agricultural experimental center. In the afternoon, you will be drop off at your selected hotel in Valle Sagrado.

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Day 3: SACRED VALLEY - FULL DAY CHINCHERO/ VIVO MUSEUM/OLLANTAYTAMBO

During the morning, you will be picked up from your hotel in Cusco to visit the town of Chinchero, a traditional Cusco urban centre located at an elevated point with a beautiful view of the valley. The inhabitants of this area preserve the artisan traditions and the inherited knowledge of the Incas and display them in their clothes and customs. In Chinchero there are also archaeological remains and a beautiful seventeenth-century church, one of the first Catholic buildings in Peru. After this, you are transferred to Ollantaytambo, making a stop at the Raqchi viewpoint from where you can see the local archaeological site. Upon arriving in Ollantaytambo visit its town, inhabited uninterruptedly since Inca times, and climb the iconic fortress, built next to a mountain. Later, have lunch in Ollantaytambo and live a superior Andean gastronomy experience in Chuncho restaurant, where the true spirit of the Sacred Valley is transmitted in a cosy atmosphere. It should be noted that the restaurant offers exclusive service for LimaTours passengers at regular lunchtime, providing first class personal attention. Then, you are transferred from Ollantaytambo to the Living Museum of Yucay, a centre Andean traditions interpretations, where demonstrations of the elaboration of textile work, adobe, pottery and silverware are carried out in the same way in which they used to in antiquity; an original recreation of Inca traditions. Also, residents of the museum include llamas, sheep and alpacas, and they can be fed! At the end of this activity, you are transferred back to your hotel.

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Day 4: SACRED VALLEY: FD MACHU PICCHU RUINS / AGUAS CALIENTES

After having breakfast in your hotel, the tour to Machu Picchu begins with a train ride to Aguas Calientes in approximately four hours’ time. This town is also known as “Machu Picchu Pueblo” and is the last stop before entering the remains of the most important archaeological site in Peru. In Aguas Calientes there is a train station, a craft market, restaurants and hotels of different categories for those who prefer to spend the night at the foot of the mountain and climb it early. Finally, after a short transfer by bus you will reach Machu Picchu, a masterpiece of engineering and architecture that served as a sanctuary and retreat for the Inca Pachacutec. Machu Picchu, which means “Old Mountain”, and is considered a World Heritage by UNESCO and one of the new seven wonders of the world. At the end of the tour you will take a bus back to Aguas Calientes and have lunch at ¨Cafe Inkaterra¨ Machu Picchu. You will have the rest of the afternoon free and will spend the night in your selected hotel in Aguas Calientes.

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Day 5: AGUAS CALIENTES - FULL DAY MACHU PICCHU RUINS / CUSCO

After having breakfast at the hotel, you have the option to return to Machu Picchu and visit any of the attractions of the citadel (2nd day visit not included in actual pricing). Visit the Intipunku, which in Castilian means “Sun Gate” and is the last stop before entering Machu Picchu if you follow the Inca trail from Ollantaytambo. The sun rises every day through this door if viewed from the most important buildings of the citadel. You may climb the Wayna Picchu (subject to space availability), which means “Young Mountain” as opposed to Machu Picchu. This ascent takes about an hour and its main attraction is the “Temple of the Moon”, a complex of underground constructions likely to have been used by the elite. Finally, you will be able to know the Inca Bridge, an incredible stone building that served as entrance or exit of the citadel. In the afternoon you will head to the train station of Aguas Calientes and take the train back to Cusco from there.

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Day 6: CUSCO / BUENOS AIRES

At appropriate time, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Buenos Aires, via Lima (private service). Welcome to Argentina! Capital of Argentina and described as the Paris of South America, Buenos Aires proudly embraces this title, as well as shows off plenty of its own culture! Explore the traditional European architecture, the cobbled streets lined with rustic outdoor cafes, the local antique and artisan markets that offer plenty of bargain shopping, and the mouthwatering aroma of prized Argentine beef sizzling on an open “parrilla” (barbeque) in the air. Buenos Aires is home to some excellent local designers and you will certainly find the perfect leather jacket, long leather boots and handbags for all occasions. Though above all, Buenos Aires is known as the home of the tango. Be sure to enjoy a traditional dinner-tango show and explore the colorful San Telmo and Recoleta neighborhoods. Upon arrival in Buenos Aires you will be met at the airport and have a transfer in private to your hotel.

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Day 7: BUENOS AIRES TOUR & TANGO SHOW

In the morning, you will be picked up from your hotel to enjoy our City Tour in private service. Over the course of a half day you will have the chance to visit the historical and political centre of the city, San Telmo with its cobblestone streets, La Boca where Buenos Aires turns colorful and tango is ever present, and the chic and aristocratic Recoleta, where the big palaces remind us that Buenos Aires was once the Paris of the South. In the evening you will be picked up from your hotel in a shared service to be driven to one of Buenos Aires’ most emblematic cultural highlights: a Dinner and Tango Show, offering a spectacular demonstration of the finest local dancing accompanied by delicious Argentine cuisine and all the malbec you’d like. At the end of the evening you will be driven back to your hotel. Total duration (dinner + show): 4 hours approx.

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Day 8: BUENOS AIRES / IGUAZU

In the morning, you will be picked up from your hotel to enjoy our City Tour in private service. Over the course of a half day you will have the chance to visit the historical and political centre of the city, San Telmo with its cobblestone streets, La Boca where Buenos Aires turns colorful and tango is ever present, and the chic and aristocratic Recoleta, where the big palaces remind us that Buenos Aires was once the Paris of the South. In the evening you will be picked up from your hotel in a shared service to be driven to one of Buenos Aires’ most emblematic cultural highlights: a Dinner and Tango Show, offering a spectacular demonstration of the finest local dancing accompanied by delicious Argentine cuisine and all the malbec you’d like. At the end of the evening you will be driven back to your hotel. Total duration (dinner + show): 4 hours approx.

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Day 9: IGUAZU NATIONAL PARK: ARGENTINE SIDE

After breakfast you will depart on a full day tour (private service) to the Argentine side of the Iguazu Falls where you will have intimate views of this unforgettable section of the Iguazu River. An guide will show you the hidden gems of this unique National Park and will take you off the beaten path to show you the best views. Lower and upper walkways permit up close and personal experiences with this magnificent spectacle of nature. Trails through the 210 square mile reserve provide visitors with various views of the falls, especially the largest one, Devil’s Throat. The ecological train ride is included in the tour. Return to the hotel in the late afternoon.

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Day 10: IGUAZU NATIONAL PARK: BRAZILIAN SIDE / RIO DE JANEIRO

After breakfast, enjoy a half day excursion (private service) to the Brazilian side of the Iguazu Falls where you will enjoy vast panoramic views of the Falls allowing you to take them in their entirety. “Brazil requires that most tourists have a visa to visit the Brazilian side of Iguazu Falls. Please check with the Brazilian Consulate to ensure that you have the appropriate visa before traveling or you will not be allowed to enter Brazil. For example- US citizens, Canadians & Australians (as well as other nationalities) need a visa to visit the Brazilian side of Iguazu Falls.” At appropriate time in the afternoon you will have a transfer (private service) to the airport to take your flight to Rio de Janeiro. Welcome to Rio de Janeiro! The exotic mix of beach and mountains, colonial neighborhoods and modern style, together with the vibrant sound of Samba everywhere, is why this city was listed in the book “A thousand places to see before you die” as one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Upon arrival in Rio de Janeiro you will be taken to your hotel (private service) at which point you will have the remainder of the day to explore the lively city or spend time relaxing by the beach.

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Day 11: RIO DE JANEIRO: CORCOVADO & SUGAR LOAF

Explore the two major landmarks of Rio and even Brail. Take a look at the Horizon, mountains, history and people of this fantastic city. Begin the tour by riding the cog-wheel train up Corcovado Mountain to reach the spectacular view at the top: the sea, the mountains, the millions of houses and all of the amazing nature that captivate the eyes. Enjoy lunch in one of our selected restaurants (not included) and continue visiting the famous Sugarloaf Mountain, reaching the top by cable car. Gaze down to admire Rio;s downtown, its Colonial Portuguese style buildings, the glittering waters of the Atlantic Ocean and the beautiful beaches below. Shared service.

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Day 12: DEPARTURE

At appropriate time, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight back home.


OPTION 1: 3* ACCOMMODATION
CITY NIGHTS HOTEL NAMES SERVICES
Cusco
Sacred Valley
Aguas Callente
Buenos Aires
Puerto Iguazu
Rio de Janerio
Pricing Per Person/*
Double Triple
USD USD

OPTION 2: 4* ACCOMMODATION
CITY NIGHTS HOTEL NAMES SERVICES
Cusco
Sacred Valley
Aguas Callente
Buenos Aires
Puerto Iguazu
Rio de Janerio
Pricing Per Person/*
Double Triple
USD USD

PACKAGE INCLUDES

  • 11 Night’s Accommodation with breakfast as per mentioned or similar
  • Admission Tickets to Corcavado & Sugar Loaf
  • Admission Tickets to Qoricancha Templ, Monastery of Santo Domingo, Cusco Cathedral in Cusco, Moray archaeological remains, Maras salt deposits, Awana Kancha, Pisac market Ollantaytambo Fortress in the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu.
  • All Transfers & Sightseeing tour as per mentioned in the itinerary

PACKAGE EXCLUDES

  • Airfare, Visa’s and Taxes, Baggage Charges
  • Resort Fee / City Tax / Utility Charges wherever applicable must be paid directly
  • Any Meals like Lunch / Dinner unless specified in inclusions
  • Tips & Gratuities
  • Overseas Mediclaim insurance
  • Bank Remittance charge of USD 30
  • Any items not mentioned in Package inclusions column

IMPORTANT NOTES

  • Rates are Net and Non-Commissionable and are valid from 01 st Jan 2019 to 30 th Sept 2019 (Black-out Dates Apply)
  • The above is only a quote and the same is subject to availability at the time of booking
  • In case of any unavailability we reserve the right to use alternative accommodation, sightseeing tours and transfer of equal standard.
  • For certain sightseeing on Seat in Coach Basis you may need to go for to the pickup point.
  • Certain events are seasonal like Maid of the Mist, Cave of the Winds, Whale Watching etc.
  • We are not responsible for any missed breakfast due to flight timings or early morning sightseeing tours.
  • As per the standard hotel policy in USA, breakfast is usually for only 2pax in a room irrespective of number of occupants whether 3 or 4. But sometimes the hotel does provide breakfast for all occupants. In case if not included for all, guest will need to pay for breakfast directly.