21 Day South American Odyssey with Machu Picchu
Tour by AVG Travels
Small Group Tour Max 20 Travellers
Centrally Located Hotels
English-speaking Local Guides
Day by Day Itinerary
Buenos Aires, Iguassu Falls, Rio de Janeiro, Lima, Puerto Maldonado, Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Puno, Lake Titicaca
Highlights
- Experience an authentic Argentinian dinner in Buenos Aires
- Tour both sides of Iguassu Falls – one of the natural wonders of the world
- Visit some of the most iconic sights in Rio de Janeiro – Christ the Redeemer & the Lapa Steps
- Explore colonial Lima in a guided tour of the city
- Spend 3 nights in the Amazon Jungle exploring this raw, natural wonder
- Immerse yourself in the Incan culture throughout the Sacred Valley
- Gawk at the “Lost City of the Incas” – Machu Picchu
- Be guided through Cusco – one of Peru’s most beautiful cities
- Learn about the local people who call Lake Titicaca home on a full day tour of the region
Wanting to extend to the Galapagos Islands? Why not check out our 30 Day South American Odyssey & the Galapagos Islands itinerary.
Itinerary
Arrive Buenos Aires, Argentina
Bienvenidos a Argentina!
On arrival into Ezeiza International Airport (EZE) or Aeroparque Internacional Jorge Newbery (AEP), you will be met by your private transfer and driven to your Buenos Aires accommodation.
Spend the remainder of the day at your leisure.
Meals: in-flight
Accommodation: Libertador Hotel 4* or similar
Please note: some flights ex. Australia, will connect through Santiago, Chile and may incur a longer stopover en route to Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Buenos Aires
Discover Buenos Aires today, one of the most captivating cities in Latin America and beyond. We’ll start our journey at Plaza de Mayo, exploring its surroundings and iconic landmarks like the Cathedral, which serves as the final resting place of Argentina’s founding father, José de San Martín.
As we visit Palermo, Retiro, and Recoleta, you’ll see why Buenos Aires is often called the “Paris of South America.” We’ll admire Plaza San Martín, stroll along the prestigious Alvear Avenue, and visit the Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar, one of the city’s oldest churches. Our tour will also include a stop at the Recoleta Cemetery to pay our respects at Eva Perón’s grave, a significant figure in Argentine history.
Next, we’ll head to Puerto Madero, the city’s newest neighbourhood, where we’ll explore its modern docks and vibrant district of corporate, residential, hotel, and dining spaces.
Our journey continues to San Telmo, one of Buenos Aires’ oldest neighbourhoods. Here, we’ll delve into its rich history and wander through its charming cobblestone streets.
After San Telmo, we’ll proceed to La Boca, known for its authentic character and Italian immigrant influence. We’ll visit Caminito Street, which embodies the neighbourhood’s passionate soccer culture, artistic flair, and tango-inspired ambiance.
In the evening, join us for The Argentine Experience – Dinner Experience. This interactive and enjoyable dinner event offers an immersive look into Argentine cuisine and culture. You’ll learn to craft empanadas using the “repulgue” technique, order steak in Spanish, prepare your own “mate” drink, and explore typical Argentine words, phrases, and gestures.
The evening will kick off with an empanada-making class, where you’ll compete to create the best empanada, with a prize for the winner. Enjoy your creations alongside grilled provoleta cheese and chorizo sausage with chimichurri. The main course features a delicious Argentine steak, paired with a lesson on the renowned “Malbec” wine from a sommelier.
For dessert, you’ll make an “alfajor” filled with “dulce de leche,” Argentina’s beloved sweet treat. And of course, no meal is complete without a mate! You’ll learn how to prepare it and join in a traditional round, just like Argentinians do when they gather.
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Accommodation: Libertador Hotel 4* or similar
Buenos Aires Iguazu Falls
At the relevant time today, you will be transferred to the airport in time for your included flight to Iguazu Falls.
On arrival into Iguazu Falls, you will be met and transferred to your accommodation in Puerto Iguazu.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: La Aldea de la Selva Lodge 4* or similar
Iguazu Falls
Get ready to be awestruck by the Iguazú Falls: a stunning collection of 275 waterfalls reaching nearly 80 metres (260 feet) in height. Recognized as one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, these falls are truly a natural marvel.
Iguazú National Park, located in the northwest of Misiones Province, just 11 miles from Puerto Iguazú, is part of the Paraná Jungle eco-region that spans nearly the entire province.
The Lower Circuit features a 0.8-mile (1.3 km) trail that brings you close to some of the smaller waterfalls on the Argentine side. This path, equipped with restrooms and snack bars, offers great photo opportunities, including a view of the Carlos Bozzetti Waterfall.
The Upper Circuit, which is wheelchair accessible, provides an elevated view of the majestic falls on the Argentine side, offering breathtaking panoramic vistas. From here, you can see the Argentine falls, San Martin Island, and parts of the Brazilian falls.
The Devil’s Throat, the largest waterfall in the region, is where the majority of water flows through Iguazú Falls. At an impressive 350 feet (107 metres) in height, it’s an essential feature of the falls. A newly constructed catwalk allows you to get up close to this powerful cascade.
Dinner awaits at Mercadito de Yabuticaba.
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Accommodation: La Aldea de la Selva Lodge 4* or similar
Iguazu Falls, Brazil Rio de Janeiro
After breakfast, you will be taken on a guided tour of the Brazilian side of Iguaza Falls – be sure to have your passport handy for when you cross the border!
You’ll experience some of the most spectacular panoramic views of the falls. We will take a glass elevator that ascends to a platform, offering even more breathtaking vistas.
Together with its counterpart in Argentina, Iguazú National Park constitutes the largest remaining rainforest in the southern cone of South America. Both the park and the waterfalls have been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
From here, you will be transferred to the local airport in time for your included flight to Rio de Janeiro.
On arrival, you will be met by your local guide and transferred to your accommodation.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Regency Park Hotel 4* or similar
Rio de Janeiro
After breakfast, embark on a full-day tour to discover the highlights of Rio de Janeiro. We’ll depart from the hotel and visit the city’s most iconic landmarks, including a scenic drive along Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon. We’ll then arrive at the base of Corcovado Hill, where we’ll board a comfortable train that ascends to the summit, home to the Christ the Redeemer statue perched 2,300 feet above sea level. This statue, often called the “wonder of Rio,” is recognized as one of the Seven New Wonders of the World. At the top, you can take panoramic elevators or escalators to reach the statue’s base.
After lunch, we’ll explore the vibrant neighbourhood of Santa Teresa, situated on Morro do Desterro (Exile Hill). Known for its artistic and bohemian atmosphere, Santa Teresa is celebrated for its architectural charm and cultural vibe. Historic cable cars navigate the area’s narrow streets, adding to its unique character.
At the foot of Santa Teresa, you’ll find the Escadaria Selarón, commonly known as the ‘Lapa Steps’ (Escadaria da Lapa). This renowned staircase is the creation of Chilean artist Jorge Selarón, who described it as “my tribute to the Brazilian people.” In the Lapa neighbourhood, we’ll also visit the Carioca Aqueduct, or “Arcos da Lapa,” an impressive structure built in the 18th century.
Spend the remainder of the day at your leisure.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Regency Park Hotel 4* or similar
Rio de Janeiro
Spend today at your leisure.
Perhaps book onto one of the optional tours available or explore the city at your own pace.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Regency Park Hotel 4* or similar
Rio de Janeiro Lima, Peru
Today, you will be transferred to the airport in time for your included flight to Lima, Peru.
On arrival into Jorge Chavez International Airport (LIM), you will be met by a local representative in the arrivals hall and transferred to your accommodation.
Spend the remainder of the day at your leisure.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel Dazzler Lima Miraflores 4* or similar
Lima
We’ll start our exploration of Lima with a journey through its Colonial past. Our first stop will be the Main Square, where we’ll stroll to admire the exteriors of the Government Palace, the Cathedral, and City Hall—each a testament to the grandeur of colonial architecture. Following this, we’ll visit Casa Aliaga, a colonial mansion renowned as the oldest continuously inhabited private residence in the Southern Hemisphere.
Next, we’ll head to Santo Domingo Convent, a religious and architectural treasure that features sacred paintings, images, and relics of Peruvian saints, along with historical records of the Dominican Order’s efforts in the region. Finally, we’ll wander through Barranco’s charming streets, exploring traditional spots like the “Bajada de Baños” and the iconic “Puente de los Suspiros,” both rich in history and beauty.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel Dazzler Lima Miraflores 4* or similar
Lima Puerto Maldonado Amazon Jungle
Today, you will be transferred to the airport in time for your included flight to Puerto Maldonado – the gateway to the Peruvian Amazon Jungle.
On arrival, you will be transferred to your awaiting boat transfer which will take you on a 45-minute journey to your Amazon Jungle Lodge.
Upon arriving at your Jungle Lodge, you will have an orientation of the accommodation and its surrounding facilities, before being informed about your coming day’s activities and schedule.
On your first day, you can embark on a guided walk along the trail system, providing a great introduction to the jungle ecosystem and opportunities to observe exotic birds and insects. In the evening, join us for a guided boat ride to experience the forest’s transformation from day to night.
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Accommodation: IKAM Riverview Amazon Lodge or similar
Amazon Jungle
In the morning, we’ll embark on an excursion to Lake Sandoval within the Tambopata National Reserve. We’ll explore the lake’s waters in a wooden canoe, where we might encounter endangered species such as giant river otters, red howler monkeys, red-bellied macaws, anacondas, and side-necked turtles. After lunch, we’ll visit the Inkaterra Canopy and the Anaconda Trail.
On this adventure, we’ll walk through the tropical forest canopy for about a quarter of a mile, traversing a network of walkways that link eight observation platforms. This excursion offers the chance to spot vibrant toucans, woodpeckers, trogons, as well as monkeys, sloths, and various other Amazonian species.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: IKAM Riverview Amazon Lodge or similar
Amazon Jungle
Today will include morning and afternoon activities spent on the tributaries of the Amazon River.
During the day, you will return to the lodge to have lunch, relax and freshen up before heading out for your included afternoon activities.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: IKAM Riverview Amazon Lodge or similar
Amazon Jungle Puerto Maldonado Cusco Sacred Valley
Today brings an end to your time in the Amazon Jungle.
You will be transferred by boat and vehicle to Puerto Maldonado Airport in time for your included flight to Cusco.
On arrival into Cusco, you will be met and transferred to your accommodation situated in the Sacred Valley.
Spend the remainder of the day at your leisure to explore the nearby ruins or perhaps to stroll along the Urubamba River.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel La Casona de Yucay 4* or similar
Sacred Valley
Today, tour of the Sacred Valley: Maras Salt Pans, Moray Archaeological Site, and Ollantaytambo Fortress.
Our journey begins with a visit to the Salt Pans of Maras. The sight of these still-active salt mines, which have been in use since Incan times, is truly striking, with the stark white of the salt pans contrasting sharply against the lush green mountain slopes. We will then proceed to the Moray Archaeological Site, renowned for its circular terraces that descend 490 feet (150 metres). These terraces served as an agricultural testing ground and are a testament to the advanced engineering skills of the Incas, who built in harmony with nature.
Finally, we’ll explore Ollantaytambo, one of the last remaining Incan towns, known for its formidable fortress. Here, we’ll uncover the extensive archaeological complex that once functioned as a rest stop for royal delegations. The surviving walls and towers of the fortress reveal the impressive defensive structures used to protect the citadel from potential invasions.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel La Casona de Yucay 4* or similar
Sacred Valley Machu Picchu Cusco
Today you will be picked up from your hotel at the designated time and taken to the train station for your scenic train journey to Aguas Calientes filled with breathtaking views.
Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, we’ll board a bus that will take us to the entrance of Machu Picchu.
Discovered by Hiram Bingham over a century ago, Machu Picchu is celebrated as one of the seven wonders of the world. Its stunning architecture, dramatic natural setting, and the mystical aura of its ancient buildings are truly awe-inspiring. We’ll explore the enchanting citadel on a guided tour, following in the footsteps of the ancient Incas.
After the tour, we’ll enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant.
Finally, we’ll return to the Aguas Calientes before taking the train and private vehicle towards Cusco, where you will check into your hotel.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Accommodation: Xima Exclusive Cusco 4* or similar
Cusco
Embark on a half day guided tour of this enchanting city.
Cusco is undoubtedly one of Peru’s most stunning cities. We’ll explore its iconic squares, Inca architecture, and charming narrow streets. Our visit will include the Cathedral, the famous 12-Angle Stone, and the Qorikancha, a significant site with connections to the Amazon.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Xima Exclusive Cusco 4* or similar
Cusco
Today is spent at your leisure.
There are many different half day or full day tours that you can book onto today, both in and around Cusco.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Xima Exclusive Cusco 4* or similar
Cusco Puno
Say goodbye to Cusco as the tour heads towards the highest elevated lake in the world – Lake Titicaca.
During the trip, you’ll have the opportunity to explore various attractions along the route, including Pucara, Raqchi, and Andahuaylillas. The excursion also includes lunch at a local restaurant.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel Jose Antonio Puno 4* or similar
Puno Lake Titicaca Puno
Today, we will embark on a remarkable journey across Lake Titicaca, the world’s highest navigable lake. Our adventure begins with a visit to the Uros floating islands, an intriguing cluster of about 40 small islands constructed entirely from totora reeds, which grow around the lake. The friendly residents will welcome us to experience their traditional way of life and customs.
Continuing our journey across the serene waters of the lake, we’ll reach the charming Taquile Island. This tranquil island harmoniously blends ancient Quechua traditions with modern life. We’ll explore its unique landscape, featuring Incan terraces adorned with local flowers and crops. The vibrant colours of the local attire and their exquisite handmade textiles will captivate us. Above all, we will appreciate the warm hospitality of the Taquileños, who will ensure our visit is unforgettable. Before returning to Puno, we’ll enjoy lunch at a local home.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel Jose Antonio Puno 4* or similar
Puno Lima
Today, you will be transferred to the airport in time for your included flight back to Lima.
On arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel for your final night on tour.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel Dazzler Lima Miraflores 4* or similar
Depart Lima
At the relevant time today, you will be privately transferred to Jorge Chavez International Airport (LIM) in time for your onward journey.
Meals: Breakfast
Included
- Small group tour – maximum of 20 travellers
- 20 nights in 4 & 5-star accommodation, including 3 nights in an Amazon Jungle Ecolodge
- Breakfast daily, 6 lunches & 5 dinners
- English-speaking, local guides throughout
- Private airport transfers on day 1 & day 21
- Private, air-conditions transportation throughout
- Domestic economy class flights; Buenos Aires to Iguazú Falls, Iguassu Falls to Rio de Janeiro, Lima to Puerto Maldonado, Puerto Maldonado to Cusco and Puno to Lima
- International, economy class flight; Rio de Janeiro to Lima
- Entrance into national parks, museums, natural reserves as mentioned in the itinerary
- Entrance fee into Machu Picchu site, including bus transportation
- Return train ticket from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes
Excluded
- International flights into Buenos Aires and out of Lima
- Visas
- Travel insurance
- Tipping
- Anything not mentioned in the itinerary
- Optional activities
- Personal expenses
Fine Print
How to book and Payments
AVG Travels offers you a “Instalment Payment Plan”, you will be required to settle a small deposit followed by a series of instalments when you select to book your departure tour.
- First payment: You will be required to settle a $300 per person deposit online through our website link
- Second payment: You will be required to settle the second payment $2,000 per person after 7 days when you receive our company invoice
- Third payment: $2,500 per person due within 40 days of deposit
- Fourth payment: $2,000 per person due within 90 days of deposit
- Final payment: Final payment will be collected 120 days before your departure
However, you will have a 7-day cooling off period. Please refer to the “Flexible Cancellation” section.
Flexible Cancellation
If you change your mind within 7 days of making your booking online, you can request a refund of your initial deposit payment. Once your purchase date falls outside of the 7-day period, our standard terms and conditions will apply.
Please ensure that any request to cancel your booking is received via email to [email protected], including the reason for cancellation.
Flight Information
This is a land package only.
If you would like to add airfares to your booking, please select the departure city where we have the economy return flights add-on for your selection. If you would like to book the business class or premium class, please contact us anytime and our ticketing expert would assist you. Currently we use Emirates Airlines or similar.
Flight requests, amendments or preferences
We understand customers may wish to request changes to their included airfares. If you wish to fly with a certain airline, land at a certain time or change your flight in other ways we will gladly provide you with a personalized quote tailored to your specific requirements.
We would be more than happy to provide you with a quote for the following requests:
Airline Preferences – You may wish to fly with a particular airline
Cabin Preferences – These include upgrading to premium economy or business class
Extensions (start and end cities must remain the same) – You may request to extend your stay pre or post tour.
Meal Requests – You may request a specific meal for dietary requirements.
Seat Requests – If you would like to request particular seating. However please note, not all airlines allow the selection of pre-purchased seat arrangements.
Important Information
Tour by AVG Travels
Our AVG Travels Experts have crafted this itinerary, blending local insights and travellers preferences to create this unforgettable experience. We have considered attractions, logistics, and unique opportunities, ensuring each detail aligns perfectly. Our expertise transforms trips into seamless adventures, offering bespoke inclusions that will ultimately enhance your time touring with AVG Travels.
Accommodation
The accommodation listed is subject to change. Any changes will be of an equal or higher standard. Bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only. All efforts will be made to meet your preferences however any changes are beyond our control.
Single Supplement
Single supplement is $1,571 per person in addition to the twin share price.
Physical Requirements
A reasonable level of fitness is required. Participants should be comfortable navigating stairs, boarding and disembarking from the coach and ship, and walking reasonable distances, typically around 2 kilometres per day or more. Please disclose any physical conditions at the time of booking to assess suitability for the tour.
Due to the high altitude of our destinations, some individuals may experience altitude sickness, regardless of their age, gender, or fitness level. Even Sir Edmund Hillary faced this challenge!
Visitors are required to be accompanied by a Machu Picchu guide (not our trip leaders) and must adhere to designated routes within the site. This trip includes a guided visit to Machu Picchu, lasting approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. Your leader will provide additional information to help you make the most of your time at this remarkable site.
This trip includes a couple of longer drives, particularly on Days 5 and 8. Although these journeys are by private vehicle and may feel a bit tiring, they offer a wonderful opportunity to relax, enjoy the scenery, and chat with fellow travelers.
As per Machu Picchu regulations, all visitors must follow a designated route within the site in a single direction. Once the guided visit begins, exiting and re-entering is not allowed. After the guided visit, visitors must exit the site, as personal exploration of Machu Picchu is not permitted. For further details, please refer to the itinerary.
Tipping
A friendly reminder that tipping is not included in your package.
Industry standard is USD$10-15 per person per day – however the final amount you may wish to give, is completely at your discretion.
Group Size
Minimum: 4
Maximum: 20
Visa & Passport information
It is the traveller’s responsibility to ensure they have a valid passport. The passport must be valid for a minimum of six months from the intended date of return and must have more than 2 blank pages.
AU Passport holders:
No visa is required to travel to Argentina for a maximum of 90 days.
Visa for Brazil is required from 9 April 2025 onwards – e-visa application here.
No visa is required to travel to Peru for a maximum of 90 days.
IMPORTANT: Visa requirements may change at any time without notice. You should contact the nearest high commission/embassy or consulate for the latest details.
Children
Children under the age of 18 years will not be permitted to travel on this tour.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is recommended to protect yourself against the unexpected. In addition to the support that a policy may provide, you may be asked to present a copy of your travel insurance documentation while traveling. We have partnered with NibTravel Insurance to offer our customers competitive rates for their travel insurance. You can book Comprehensive or Essentials cover for your domestic, international or multi- trip journeys simply with us.
Packing Essentials
What you need to pack for your tour will depend on the style of tour you’ve selected, the countries you’re visiting, and the time of year you’re traveling. We recommend packing as light as possible, ensuring that you’re able to carry, lift, and walk with your luggage for short distances, or up and down stairs.
A lockable suitcase with wheels is ideal for this trip. Many tours include internal flights, which often have luggage weight limits, so it’s best to keep your main luggage weight around 15kg, with a maximum of 20kg. A small or medium-sized backpack (45-50 liters) is also a great option. Additionally, you’ll need a day pack or bag to carry essentials like water, a camera, a jacket, and other necessities while you’re exploring during the day.
Amazon Jungle Packing List
Lightweight, long-sleeved, light-coloured cotton shirts and pants (with a tight weave)
Comfortable shoes or sandals for walking on boardwalks or around the lodge
Long, thick socks to wear with the rubber boots provided by the lodge
Strong tropical insect repellent
Head torch or flashlight (a smartphone torch is also sufficient), and binoculars (optional)
How to Extend Your Stay
You can enhance your holiday by arriving or departing before or after the tour. On this tour you can pay extra for arriving early or extending your trip.
Pre tour accommodation in Buenos Aires including breakfast & arrival transfer from EZE Airport – AU$663 per room, per night for double/twin/single.
Pre tour accommodation in Buenos Aires including breakfast & arrival transfer from AEP Airport – AU$540 per room, per night for double/twin/single.
Post tour accommodation in Lima including breakfast & departure transfer – AU$469 per room, per night for double/twin/single.
Please note: some transfers may be conducted by drivers that do not speak English.
Dates & Prices
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