Ultimate South America with train to Machu Picchu (From Mar 2026)
Ultimate South America with train to Machu Picchu (From Mar 2026)
Ultimate South America with train to Machu Picchu (From Mar 2026)
24 Days Starting in Lima, Peru and ending in Rio De Janeiro, Brazil
Visiting: Lima, Arequipa, Colca Canyon, Puno, Cusco, Sacred Valley, Aguas Calientes, Machu Picchu, Puerto Maldonado, Sandoval Lake, Buenos Aires, Iguassu Falls, Rio de Janeiro
Tour operator:
Tour code:
ULSATR26
Specialist Group:
18-30 Somethings
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Age range:
18-35
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on the "Ultimate South America with train to Machu Picchu" adventure, a thrilling journey through Peru, Argentina, and Brazil starting in March 2026. This tour offers a blend of cultural exploration and natural wonders, with included flights, private coaches, and scenic train rides. Begin in Lima, Peru, and traverse the majestic landscapes of Arequipa, Colca Canyon, and Lake Titicaca. Experience the awe of Machu Picchu and the vibrant city life of Cusco. Venture into the Amazon jungle from Puerto Maldonado, then fly to Buenos Aires for a taste of Argentine culture. Witness the breathtaking Iguassu Falls from both the Brazilian and Argentine sides before concluding in the lively city of Rio de Janeiro. Enjoy diverse accommodations, from city hotels to a jungle lodge, and savor local cuisines along the way. This adventure promises unforgettable experiences and the chance to explore some of South America's most iconic destinations.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Start Lima
Location: Lima
Accommodation Name: Selina Miraflores (or similar)
Meals Included: Dinner
Welcome to Lima, adventurers! Steeped in Spanish colonialism yet buzzing with modern metro vibes, Lima is sure to ignite your love for Peru. Spend your morning marvelling at lavishly decorated churches and an underground tunnel cemetery overflowing with bones or catacombs, then hit the Barranco district this afternoon to get a feel for its bohemian ambiance. A stroll over the Bridge of Sighs is also a must. And of course no trip to Lima is complete without devouring at least one portion of ceviche ��� it’s a pretty massive deal in the city. Round off the day watching the sun set over the Pacific, most likely with a pisco sour in hand…
Day 2: Lima To Arequipa
Location: Arequipa
Accommodation Name: Selina Arequipa (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
The skies are calling this morning as we board our included flight bound for the ‘White City’ of Arequipa, Peru’s second largest city which lies in the shadow of three majestic volcanoes. The town of Arequipa, or La Ciudad Blanca, is both culturally and aesthetically astounding. A city tour will gets us orientated, taking in highlights including the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Plaza de Armas, then this evening is all about something we reckon you’re going to love… food. Rocoto Relleno (stuffed hot peppers) and Chupe de Camarones (crayfish chowder) are both on the menu, and after a busy day exploring this ancient city, we’ll sure be deserving of a feast.
Day 3: Arequipa To Colca Canyon
Location: Colca Canyon
Accommodation Name: Hotel la casa de Mamayacchi (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Are you ready for another nature masterclass? Waving farewell to Arequipa this morning, we’ll pass through Salinas and Aguada Blanco national reserve en route to one of the world’s deepest canyons. After a journey of windswept landscapes, sandstone cliff & stops for hot coca tea, we will arrive at the highest point of our entire journey, which at 4910 metres/16,108ft above sea level is the same height as Mont Blanc, Europe’s highest peak. Those jaws will be on the floor as you catch a first glimpse of this epic natural masterpiece. Can you feel the tingles already?
Day 4: Colca Canyon To Puno
Location: Puno
Accommodation Name: Hotel Casona Plaza (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning promises to be pretty mega as we hop out of bed in search for the King of the Andes, otherwise known as the Andean Condor, which boasts a mega 3-metre wingspan. Fingers crossed luck is on our side – some days we may spot 10 condors, other days none – but that’s the fun of Mother Nature. Either way, the majestic view of the Colca Canyon never ceases to impress, and we know you’ll leave feeling like you’ve witnessed something truly special. Back on the road, we’ll roll past quaint villages, stop for lunch in Chivay, then head on to the high plains of Peru. Yet more natural beauty will be dished up this afternoon as we pull in to Puno, located on the shores of Lake Titicaca. Spend the evening settling in to our cosy hotel, or head into town for some dance floor action but a word of warning – Puno sits at an altitude of 3657 metres, so go easy on the piscos and the energetic dancefloor moves as the altitude could leave you feeling more breathless than normal. Tomorrow promises to be one to remember as we take to the lake for a taste of ancient Peruvian life…
Day 5: Puno
Location: Puno
Accommodation Name: Lake Titicaca Homestay (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Ready to explore this area in all its Multi-coloured glory? We thought so. Jumping in a triciclo (a three-wheeled bike taxi) we’ll bump our way down to the port and get our first taste of life on the Lake (fun fact – Lake Titicaca is South America’s largest freshwater lake). Our boat ride will take us first to Taquile Island, which to this day remains one of the most culturally intact communities in the whole of Peru, and it’s here you’ll meet local weaving groups and stop for lunch.After exploring, we’ll then jump back on the boat and make for the Uros Islands, or as they’re more commonly called, the floating islands. Stepping off the boat you’ll feel like you’re walking on a water bed – unsurprising given the islands are made entirely from reeds. Here, we’ll hang with locals, visit a fish farm and even explore the local museum (yes, on an island made from reeds). The island community survives by selling textiles and totora reed boats to tourists, so after stocking up on one-off souvenirs, tonight we are warmly welcomed by locals on a Home Stay at Llachon Village.
Day 6: Puno To Cusco Via Raqchi
Location: Cusco
Accommodation Name: Selina Saphi (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Heading out of Puno this morning, we’ll make our way to Pukara to visit a small museum offering up archaeological findings and Peru’s iconic ceramic bulls. Hitting the road again we’ll journey through the snow-capped surrounds of La Raya, stopping for lunch in the town of Sicuani. Eagle eyes, this is llama country, so have those cameras at the ready. Ancient Incan culture suggest that the Raqchi ruins are sacred for their powerful healing waters. Your entry tickets on us, and our local guide will paint the full picture as we explore the ruins. The Temple of Wiracocha is the pride of the site, and we’ll learn that the ruins were built as a village defence. History lesson complete we’ll head on to Cusco, the next stop of our adventure. Our final leg of the day lands us in Cusco, the hub of ancient Incan culture. This place is a feast for the senses and will call you out for an evening of exploration and maybe even some after dark antics, Cusco style.
Day 7: Cusco
Location: Cusco
Accommodation Name: Selina Saphi (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Another day, another incredible Latin American destination to uncover; today it's sun up 'til sun down in Cusco. Shop for artisan jewellery and woodworks, roam the cobble-stone streets or just stroll the San Pedro markets eating cacao buds and sipping on coca leaf tea. Today really is what you make it!
Day 8: Cusco To Sacred Valley
Location: Sacred Valley
Accommodation Name: Tunupa Lodge Ollantaytambo (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Heading out of Cusco and bound for the Sacred Valley on our private coach, this is where our journey into the ruins and mystique of this land truly begins. But first, llamas. An iconic symbol of Peru, we’ll be stopping off at a llama farm to show some love to these furry favourites up close, and we’re talking the whole humpback family – llamas, vicuna and alpacas. We’ll then stop off to witness the ancient Incan art of weaving in practise by a group of talented local artisans. Throughout the journey, play close attention to your surrounds – there’s the chance to spot the Incan farming technique of terracing and other local ways of life. Want to know what the Peruvians do for fun? You’ll get the chance to play the traditional game of “Sapo”, and exactly what that entails we’ll leave to the imagination… Our explorations of the Sacred Valley will begin with a guided tour of the Pisac and Ollantaytambo ruins. Our Local Guide will give you the d-l on both, visiting the circular terraced Pisac ruins first which date back to the 1400’s. Moving on to Ollantaytambo, base camp for those taking the trek tomorrow, we’ll appease dry mouths with some homemade Chicha de Jora brew. This tiny town may be small in geographical terms, but what it lacks in size it makes up for in attitude, with artisan shops and cafes spilling out onto streets, and the roaring Urubamba river providing the perfect natural background noise. For those embarking on the Inca trail tomorrow this is your final chance to stock up on last minute essentials (socks, socks and more socks). For all others, spend your time soaking in the vibes, hanging with other travellers and just getting a feel for this iconic little town.
Day 9: Sacred Valley To Aguas Calientes Via Train
Location: Aguas Calientes
Accommodation Name: Inka Tower Machupicchu Hotel (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
For those not embarking on the Inca Trail, the morning is yours to enjoy the surrounding lush mountains of Ollantaytambo. Can you feel the excitement mounting? Yep – those are pretty much the feels when Machu Picchu is quite literally on the horizon. This afternoon we’ll hop on the train to Aguas Calientes, a cute town in its own right complete with roaring river, quaint bridges and local haunts, but most famously known as the gateway town to Machu Picchu. We’ll meet up with those who opted for the one day trek, and basically spend the evening hyping each other up for what’s to come tomorrow.
Day 10: Aguas Calientes To Cusco Via Machu Picchu
Location: Machu Picchu
Accommodation Name: Selina Saphi (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Excitement levels at an all-time high, the day we’ve all been waiting for is finally here – it’s Machu Picchu time! This is one big old tick off the life goals list, so enjoy every single second of it. Built around 1450 at the height of the Incan Empire, Machu Picchu is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the seven wonders of the new world. We’ll be treated to a guided tour of the site taking in such wonders as the Temple of the Three Windows and Huayna Picchu (the peak you’ll of seen in every Machu Picchu image ever), and of course you’ll have some alone time to explore the area as only you can do. Back on the train we’ll de-brief on our once-in-a-lifetime experience as we head back to Cusco. Last time round was all about getting acquainted with the city, so now you’ve got you’re bearings you can really get lost amongst the market stalls and cobbled streets, maybe even going truly local by trying out a serving of cuy.
Day 11: Cusco
Location: Cusco
Accommodation Name: Selina Saphi (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
The last few days have been pretty full on, so today is all about seeking out some much needed r’n’r. Grab a lie in at the hotel then sip fresh mountain coffee in the Plaza de Armas, or maybe take a stroll around town to pick up an alpaca sweater or ten (they are super snuggly). Can’t shake that taste for adventure? We hear you.
Day 12: Cusco To Jungle Lodge
Location: Puerto Maldonado
Accommodation Name: Corto Maltes Amazonia Lodge (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Saying a final farewell to Cusco, we’ll hop on our included flight over the Andes to the city of Puerto Maldonado. With the sound of macaws and toucans welcoming us in, this can only mean one thing…it’s jungle time. A quick tour of the city will reveal colourful fruit stalls, open air markets and locals going about their day. But now we're back underway and we just want to get to the jungle… What’s accessible only by boat, is made from wood and clay and surrounded by the sounds and colours of nature? Answer – our rainforest lodge, your blissful home for the night. We’ll work up a pre-dinner appetite by hiking to the canopy tower, then after a tasty home-cooked dinner continue our outdoor pursuits by heading out to spot caimans – a member of the alligator family native to the Amazon. Tonight promises to be one for the story bank as you fall asleep in your open-walled room to the exotic sounds of the surrounding jungle.
Day 13: Jungle Lodge
Location: Sandoval Lake
Accommodation Name: Corto Maltes Amazonia Lodge (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
If the vibrant morning song of the jungle birds hasn’t roused you early doors, the prospect of the Sandoval Lake teeming with wildlife will. Our morning canoe cruise will have us spotting prehistoric hoatzin birds and giant river otters. Satisfaction levels on high, the rest of the afternoon is all yours. Tired and hungry after another adventure filled day, we’ll head back to the lodge for the night. After such an epic day of jungle antics, we’re guessing a good night’s sleep and some sweet group hangs are pretty high on the agenda.
Day 14: Jungle Lodge To Lima Via Puerto Maldonado
Location: Lima
Accommodation Name: Selina Miraflores (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today marks our last day in Peru before heading east to Argentina and Brazil, so how better to spend it than one last night in the city where it all began? We'll catch our flight to our familiar destination, Lima. Options for your free evening in Lima are varied and endless. Maybe make for the trendy district of Miraflores, hang in Parque Kennedy or opt for one last plate of fresh to death ceviche in the city its best known for. One things for sure, we know you’ll be toasting your Peruvian leg with a final pisco sour, as tomorrow the nectar takes a decidedly red and rich turn as we enter Argentina.
Day 15: Lima To Buenos Aires
Location: Buenos Aires
Accommodation Name: Unique Palacio San Telmo (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Who’s ready for a new country? That’s right globetrotters, we’re up, up and away again this morning (how many included flights is that now?) in the direction of the Country of Seven Continents. Everything about Argentina gives us the tingles, and we know you're going to love it just as much as we do. But enough waxng lyrical, we've got a new city to conquer… South America’s most cosmopolitan city will spread out before us like a treasure box waiting to be opened as we descend on Buenos Aires, and with 4 nights to spend in the Argentinian capital damn right those are excitement butterflies in your stomach. If the 4.5 hour flight zonked you a bit (just be glad you didn't do it overland) maybe keep it chilled in the afternoon, but for the balls of energy amongst you we’ve got plenty to keep you entertained. Tonight you'll meet those joining for the next epic 10 days!
Day 16: Buenos Aires
Location: Buenos Aires
Accommodation Name: Unique Palacio San Telmo (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Now's your opportunity to get the full Porteno (locals from Buenos Aires) experience. This morning why not go check out the colorful La Boca neighbourhood? Tonight we're heading to a tango show. Have a go yourself, enjoy the first of the Argentine food you're sure to love, and then watch the pros show you how it's done.
Day 17: Buenos Aires
Location: Buenos Aires
Accommodation Name: Unique Palacio San Telmo (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today you've got the opportunity to take a day trip to Tigre. Learn about the history and culture of the inhabitants of the "isleños". If you'd prefer to stay the other side of the border, Buenos Aires is yours to explore today, your way. Then, as the balmy afternoon draws in, get involved in an optional Argentine Food Experience. The best way to get amongst the culture is the food, and this meal won't disappoint.
Day 18: Buenos Aires
Location: Buenos Aires
Accommodation Name: Unique Palacio San Telmo (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Now that you know Buenos Aires like a Porteño the day is yours to explore! Join in a day at the Polo where you'll learn about the traditional Argentine game, learn how to play and even partake in a game of your own. If you're more comfortable out on the water, opt to experience the Tigre Delta for the day on a relaxing boat ride, or if you want to stay on dry land enjoy a short bike ride around the surrounding areas. No matter what you choose, we'll all dive into a delicious regional lunch. Weather permitting you can even swim and kayak. In love with the city life of Buenos Aires? Then spend some time exploring the museums and/or the shops in Palermo. There truly is something for everyone.
Day 19: Buenos Aires To Iguassu Falls
Location: Iguassu Falls
Accommodation Name: Foz Plaza Hotel (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Landing in Puerto Iguazu we’ll hop over the border and dig our toes into Brazilian soil for the first time, clapping eyes on yet another astounding natural wonder. Listen out for all those oohhs and aahhs. A collection of 275 individual waterfalls, Iguassu Falls sprawls both Brazil and Argentina, with both sides offering up stunning UNESCO World Heritage parks and views. Today though, is all about the Brazilian side, and what better way to see the falls from every angle than with an optional helicopter ride, taking the term ‘birds eye view’ to a whole new level. Go on – treat yo’ self! For those keeping feet on the ground, take your time exploring the Parque Nacional do Iguaçu. Tonight, dinners packing a serious punch – we’ll be treating you to an authentic Brazilian BBQ dinner. Say hello to the meat sweats…
Day 20: Iguassu Falls
Location: Iguassu Falls
Accommodation Name: Foz Plaza Hotel (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Iguassu we’re not done with you yet! Yesterday was all about the Brazilian side, but today we’re hopping back over to Argentina to see what the deal is from this side of the falls. We’ll take a hike to the very edge of Devil’s Throat, the highest of the 275 falls, and for those keen there’s even the option to take to the water with a speed boat ride through the spray of the falls. Refreshing? Oh you could say that…With a full day spent here, take your time exploring, trying to figure out the age old debate – which side wears it better?
Day 21: Iguassu Falls To Rio De Janeiro
Location: Rio de Janeiro
Accommodation Name: Selina Copacabana (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Catch you later Iguassu – Rio, we’re coming in hot… If Rio knows one thing, it’s how to p-a-r-t-y, so having fun in this life loving city is already a given. But first things first – let’s get acquainted with our surroundings a little better. After a quick orientation tour, the afternoon is then yours to explore as you please, though given our hotel's beachfront location, we reckon you'll only have one thing on your mind.
Day 22: Rio De Janeiro
Location: Rio de Janeiro
Accommodation Name: Selina Copacabana (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today check out the city from above, hang gliding to see Rio in all its scenic glory. Then this afternoon is all yours, and it sounds like Copacabana Beach is calling your name. Or if a game's in town watch the masters of football do it like no one else can, while you soak in the crazy atmosphere that goes alongside the national sport.
Day 23: Rio De Janeiro
Location: Rio de Janeiro
Accommodation Name: Selina Copacabana (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Excuse us while we cry into our caipirinhas - today is our last full day on trip. But before the emotions run too high, let's make sure we see it out with a bang, Rio style. First up is a visit to Christ the Redeemer, a New Wonder of the World. Standing at an impressive 30m high (98ft), this religious monument casts an almighty shadow over the city below, and will be a moment you won't be forgetting anytime soon. This afternoon, how does a boat cruise sound? Featuring cocktails, tunes and good times, it'd be rude not to. Afterwards, we'll enjoy an included farewell dinner together.
Day 24: End Rio De Janeiro
Location: Rio de Janeiro
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning, this adventure of epic proportion will finally come to an end. Hug it out with the new friends you now class as family, and damn right you’re already on those reunion tour plans. Europe next summer, anyone?
What's Included
-
Transport
Travel through South America with included flights, private coaches, and scenic train rides.
-
Accommodation
Experience a variety of accommodations including Selina Miraflores in Lima, Selina Arequipa, Hotel la casa de Mamayacchi in Colca Canyon, and the unique Lake Titicaca Homestay.
-
Meals
The tour includes 23 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 9 dinners.
-
Guided Tours
Enjoy guided tours of Machu Picchu, Sacred Valley, and other significant sites.
-
Included Experiences
Explore Lima, Arequipa, Colca Canyon, Puno, Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Puerto Maldonado, Buenos Aires, Iguassu Falls, and Rio de Janeiro with included experiences.
What's Not Included
-
Optional Activities
Optional activities such as hang gliding in Rio de Janeiro, a helicopter ride over Iguassu Falls, and a speed boat ride at the falls are not included.
-
Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
-
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.
-
Visa Fees
Visa fees for entry into the countries visited are not included.
Mode of Transport
Travel through South America with included flights, private coaches, and scenic train rides. Enjoy a flight from Lima to Arequipa, and another from Cusco to Puerto Maldonado. Experience the train journey to Aguas Calientes, and explore the Iguassu Falls with ease. The tour concludes with a flight to Rio de Janeiro.
Accommodation
Experience a variety of accommodations throughout your journey, including the Selina Miraflores in Lima, Selina Arequipa, Hotel la casa de Mamayacchi in Colca Canyon, and the unique Lake Titicaca Homestay. Enjoy the comfort of Selina Saphi in Cusco, Tunupa Lodge in Ollantaytambo, and the Corto Maltes Amazonia Lodge in the jungle. In Buenos Aires, stay at the Unique Palacio San Telmo, and in Rio de Janeiro, relax at Selina Copacabana.
Dining Summary
- 9 Dinner (D)
- 23 Breakfast (B)
- 3 Lunch (L)
Included Experience
- Lima: Get to know this magnificent clifftop city. It’s steeped in history and pretty architecture. But we’re all about the epic food.
- Lima: Sit tight as you swoop into Peru’s second biggest city. The views of volcanic peaks are rivalled only by the incredible food.
- Arequipa: Get to know the ‘white city’ better. Explore the highlights like Plaza de Armas and take some pics of the incredible backdrop of volcanoes.
- Colca Canyon: It’s a real ‘pinch yourself’ moment as you ramble around the Andean plateaus, discovering lakes, meadows, llamas and flamingos as you go.
- Colca Canyon: See these iconic volcanos IRL. Pics or it didn’t happen!
- Colca Canyon: Brave the lookout point at 3287m. Take in the unrivalled views and spot some Andean Condor birds.
- Colca Canyon: Experience life in this traditional Peruvian village in the Colca Canyon. It’s an epic 3277m above sea level!
- Puno: If you’ve secretly always wanted to hop on one of these, here’s your chance.
- Puno: Jump on a boat to hop around the reed islands in the world’s highest navigable lake (3657m). And stop off to meet the locals.
- Puno: A humbling opportunity to get to know the local people on these reed islands in Lake Titicaca.
- Puno: Immerse yourself in culture by getting to know the locals.
- Puno: Stop off at two traditional Peruvian towns. Step up your cultural knowledge at Pukara’s museum. Then take in the scenic views of Sicuani.
- Raqchi: See the sights and learn the backstory of why the Incas built this temple for the deity Wiracocha.
- Raqchi: Unleash your spiritual side, as you explore the ancient Inca ruins known as Raqchi.
- Cusco: Graze on cancha or cacao nibs as you browse the local wares and see historical sights.
- Cusco: Your chance to pick up some mementos at San Pedro Markets and then see Cusco Cathedral, San Blas and Coricancha.
- Sacred Valley: Learn about the vibrant Andean art of weaving & goldsmithing in Pisac Qolque. Every penny you spend here helps them preserve their time-worn cultural identities & form of self-expression.
- Sacred Valley: See this former heartland of the Incan Empire and hike around the Pisac ruins.
- Sacred Valley: The sleepy town will give you a taste of local life in the Sacred Valley. Don’t forget to pick up some mementos at the market.
- Cusco: AKA ‘corn beer’. This ceremonial bevvy was the drink of choice for Incan nobility.
- Machu Picchu: Feel the goosebumps of excitement as you glide into Aguas Calientes and get ready to start this life-changing experience.
- Machu Picchu: It’s the moment you’ve been waiting for! Time to explore the Incan citadel with your new Contiki fam. #travelgoals
- Lima: Cameras ready. It’s not every day you get a bird’s eye view of the Amazon rainforest
- Puerto Maldonado: We'll make our way through the lush green Amazon rainforest at our Jungle Lodge in Puerto Maldonado. There's no better way to reconnect with nature!
- Puerto Maldonado:
- Puerto Maldonado: Ride on a canoe over the serene waters of the Sandoval Lake, surrounded by lush greenery. Who knows? You might spot giant river otters sticking their head out to give you a show.
- Puerto Maldonado: Get set to land in the gastro capital of Latin America. Where ‘olde worlde’ meets modern-day life, in this sundrenched, clifftop city.
- Lima: Get some rest before you explore Argentina’s sizzling capital. A city that’s famous for amazing food, good wine, Latin passion and legendary nightlife.
- Buenos Aires: Experience the passion and glamour of Argentina’s capital city, with an expert guide showing you the sights.
- Buenos Aires: You can’t go to Argentina and not watch live Tango dancing! It’s wrong. Like eating a steak without a glass of red.
- Buenos Aires: Get set to tick another travel goal off the bucket list. We’re jetting straight into the gateway for Iguassu Falls.
- Iguassu Falls: This World Wonder is a fiesta for the imagination. The cascades of spraying waterfalls and subtropical forest make an epic backdrop
- Iguassu Falls: There ain’t no BBQ like a Brazilian BBQ! Grab your Contiki fam and feast on these grilled skewers.
- Iguassu Falls: These colossal falls make the ultimate backdrop for a group selfie. Strike a pose with your Contiki fam.
- Iguassu Falls:
- Iguassu Falls: Woohoo! We’re en route to Brazil's carnival capital. Try to catch a glimpse of the Christ the Redeemer statue from the sky
- Rio de Janeiro: Christ the Redeemer. Sugarloaf. Copacabana. Ipanema. It’s all here to fill up up your heart and your Insta feed.
- Rio de Janeiro: Walk through the Favelas and learn about the communities and their context in regards to Brazilian society and greater Rio.
- Rio de Janeiro: This needs no introduction. Tick this iconic statue off your #travelgoals bucket list. And don’t forget your camera.
- Rio de Janeiro: Take a cruise along the arcing Guanabara Bay and enjoy Caiprinas and music
- Rio de Janeiro: Spend some time with your Contiki crew, while you dine on your final meal of this trip with at a local spot. Goodbyes might be bittersweet, but the food sure is so much more than that!
Check out our Q&As
-
What type of transportation is included in the tour?
The tour includes flights, private coaches, and scenic train rides. There are flights from Lima to Arequipa and from Cusco to Puerto Maldonado. Additionally, there is a train journey to Aguas Calientes.
-
What kind of accommodations can I expect during the tour?
You will experience a variety of accommodations, including the Selina Miraflores in Lima, Selina Arequipa, Hotel la casa de Mamayacchi in Colca Canyon, and the unique Lake Titicaca Homestay. Other accommodations include Selina Saphi in Cusco, Tunupa Lodge in Ollantaytambo, and the Corto Maltes Amazonia Lodge in the jungle. In Buenos Aires, you will stay at the Unique Palacio San Telmo, and in Rio de Janeiro, you will relax at Selina Copacabana.
-
Are there any optional activities not included in the tour?
Yes, optional activities such as hang gliding in Rio de Janeiro, a helicopter ride over Iguassu Falls, and a speed boat ride at the falls are not included in the tour package.
-
What meals are included during the tour?
The tour includes 23 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 9 dinners.
-
What is the highlight of the visit to Machu Picchu?
The highlight of the visit to Machu Picchu is a guided tour of the site, including the Temple of the Three Windows and Huayna Picchu. You will also have some free time to explore the area on your own.
-
What can I expect during the jungle lodge stay in Puerto Maldonado?
During the jungle lodge stay, you will experience a hike to the canopy tower, a canoe cruise on Sandoval Lake to spot wildlife like hoatzin birds and giant river otters, and a night-time caiman spotting activity. You will stay in an open-walled room surrounded by the sounds of the jungle.
-
How long has the tour company been trading?
In 1961, a guy called John Anderson founded Contiki in New Zealand. Whilst later bought by The Travel Corporation, the tour company had already been using the name ‘Contiki’ since its inception.
-
Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
Contiki trips are designed & operated exclusively for those aged 18-35 years. Your travelling companions will be like-minded adventurers within that age range. The age range is adhered to strictly.
-
What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
-
Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
-
What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® is our commitment to protect people, wildlife and the incredible planet we all share. Powered by The TreadRight Foundation, a non-profit organisation and Contiki’s guiding hand when it comes to making travel matter.
-
What documents will I receive before I travel?
All documentation will be sent via email around 21 days prior to your trip departure. You can also access information on your trip by signing up to My Contiki via the top right icon of the homepage.
Reviews of this operator
Save on this tour
Request your exclusive discount code now and unlock savings for your next adventure!
Send me one now.1 Select your preferred date
2025 Jun
2025 Jul
2025 Sep
2025 Oct
2025 Nov
2025 Dec
2025 Jan
2026 Feb
2026 Mar
2026 Apr
2026 May
2026 Jun
2026 Jul
2026 Aug
2026 Sep
2026 Oct
2026 Nov
2026 Dec
2026
Sunday - Tuesday
May 04, 2025 - May 27, 2025Sunday - Tuesday
May 18, 2025 - Jun 10, 2025Sunday - Tuesday
Jun 29, 2025 - Jul 22, 2025Sunday - Tuesday
Jul 27, 2025 - Aug 19, 2025Sunday - Tuesday
Sep 07, 2025 - Sep 30, 2025Sunday - Tuesday
Sep 21, 2025 - Oct 14, 2025Sunday - Tuesday
Oct 05, 2025 - Oct 28, 2025Sunday - Tuesday
Oct 19, 2025 - Nov 11, 2025Sunday - Tuesday
Nov 16, 2025 - Dec 09, 2025Sunday - Tuesday
Dec 14, 2025 - Jan 06, 2026Sunday - Tuesday
Dec 28, 2025 - Jan 20, 2026Sunday - Tuesday
Jan 11, 2026 - Feb 03, 2026Sunday - Tuesday
Jan 25, 2026 - Feb 17, 2026Sunday - Tuesday
Feb 01, 2026 - Feb 24, 2026Sunday - Tuesday
Feb 22, 2026 - Mar 17, 2026Sunday - Tuesday
Mar 22, 2026 - Apr 14, 2026Sunday - Tuesday
Apr 19, 2026 - May 12, 2026Sunday - Tuesday
May 17, 2026 - Jun 09, 2026Sunday - Tuesday
May 31, 2026 - Jun 23, 2026Sunday - Tuesday
Jun 28, 2026 - Jul 21, 2026Sunday - Tuesday
Jul 12, 2026 - Aug 04, 2026Sunday - Tuesday
Jul 26, 2026 - Aug 18, 2026Sunday - Tuesday
Aug 09, 2026 - Sep 01, 2026Sunday - Tuesday
Aug 23, 2026 - Sep 15, 2026Sunday - Tuesday
Sep 20, 2026 - Oct 13, 2026Sunday - Tuesday
Oct 04, 2026 - Oct 27, 2026Sunday - Tuesday
Oct 18, 2026 - Nov 10, 2026Sunday - Tuesday
Nov 15, 2026 - Dec 08, 2026Sunday - Tuesday
Nov 29, 2026 - Dec 22, 2026Sunday - Tuesday
Dec 13, 2026 - Jan 05, 2027Sunday - Tuesday
Dec 27, 2026 - Jan 19, 2027Book with Confidence
-
Low Deposit
Barrhead Travel requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 98 days before departure.
-
Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of barrhead travel charges.
Up to 98 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 97 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 28 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
-
Terms and Conditions
Why book with Barrhead?
Fully Protected
All our holidays are fully financially protected.
Your flight & hotel package is fully ATOL protected.
Range
Our bespoke holidays are tailor-made to suit your personal requirements.
We can book flights, rail journeys, accommodation, cruises, attraction tickets and much more.
Industry leading discounts, we won't be beaten on price.
Expert Knowledge
We know because we go – our Touring & Adventure specialists have travelled to over 55 countries.
Reliable & unbiased advice from our trusted travel experts.
Trusted Agent
Multi award-winning agency with almost 50 years experience.
Rated 4.9/5 on Trustpilot – the highest-rated high-street travel agent.
We look after you every step of the way.