A portion of this tour runs as a group tour where you will be escorted by an expert tour leader. Another portion is self-guided, whether conducted by rail, cruise or land, and you will travel between destinations on your own, with free time to explore at your own pace.
This tour is categorised as 3 out of 5
Balanced exploration with walking tours: Our most popular style, this tour offers a good mix of planned activities and free time. Expect moderate daily walking tours, so pack comfortable shoes.
As a general requirement across all of our trips, you may be required to walk up and down stairs, get on and off transportation, handle your own luggage, and participate in all scheduled sightseeing that may be conducted on uneven ground and terrain. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability and where required, supporting documentation may be requested to ensure that we are comfortable that you will enjoy your trip.
Our expertly crafted Small Group Tours take you to iconic landmarks and hidden treasures, ensuring a rich blend of must-see sights. Benefit from smaller group sizes, creating a truly unforgettable travel experience.
✓ Small, intimate group experience – no more than 20 people
✓ 33 nights in 3 & 4-star hotels
✓ Incredible sightseeing, including Machu Picchu, the Peruvian Amazon jungle, thundering Iguazu Falls, Lake Titicaca, glamorous Buenos Aires and vibrant Rio de Janeiro
✓ Explore South America's Patagonia region including the granite peaks of Torres del Paine National Park in Chile and Perito Moreno Glacier in Argentina
✓ Wonder at the intriging moai statues of Easter Island
✓ Ride the iconic train from Ollantaytambo to the foothills of Machu Picchu
✓ Breakfast daily, 6 lunches and 2 Dinners
✓ All internal flights, coach, boat and rail transportation
✓ All sightseeing by professional local English speaking guides
✈ Needing international airfares to accompany your Inspiring Vacation? You will be able to access our flight portal after securing your package to add international airfares to your booking.
This tour offers a rich, immersive experience through South America with the perfect blend of natural wonders and cultural experiences. From Patagonia’s rugged beauty and Easter Island’s Moai statues to Iguazu Falls and Machu Picchu, plus vibrant cities like Buenos Aires and Rio
Welcome to Chile! Upon your arrival at Santiago de Chile Airport (SCL), please make your way to your Hotel.
Once you’ve checked in, the rest of the day is at leisure.
Special Information
Airport transfers are not included. Our transfer portal offers the option to book your airport transfers for an easier arrival experience (additional charges apply). Access to this portal will be available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed.
After breakfast, check out and make your way to Santiago Airport’s Domestic Terminal for your included flight to Easter Island.
Upon arrival at Mataveri International Airport, you will be transferred to Taha Tai Hotel, your home for the next three nights.
The Taha Tai Hotel is set in idyllic tropical gardens and only a short stroll to the shore. From the main red-roof building and down a path you’ll find the bar and dining room with the most spectacular ocean views. It’s just 500 meters from the center of Hanga Roa, while Hanga Roa Museum is 3-km away.
This evening, opt for dinner at the hotel restaurant or venture to Hanga Roa. Here, you won’t find fast food franchises but instead restaurants serving traditional Rapa Nui cuisine: plenty of native fish and seafood like mahi-mahi and kana-kana, and rape-rape, a type of crayfish, alongside sweet potato and taro. Delicious!
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 9 hours.
Today after breakfast, you will be picked up at 9am to start your full day tour of Anakena. Don’t forget to pack your swimsuit as we’ll have the chance to go for a dip later in the day.
We will start our day with a visit to Ahu Akahanga, an archaeological site where the remains of what was an old village can be seen. According to oral tradition, the first king of the island, Ariki Hotu Matu’a, is buried here. It is said that his sons moved him here, his final resting place, from the top of the Rano Kau volcano.
Next, we will visit the Rano Raraku volcano where you’ll find the largest collection of moai or statues that were carved by the Rapa Nui people between 1250 and 1500. The moai were probably carved to commemorate important ancestors. This place is also known as the quarry, or the ‘factory of the moai.’ There are almost 400 statues here, in different stages of carving, with different characteristics and states of conservation. From here, we’ll move onto Ahu Tongariki, the site where you’ll find the most extensive platform (or ahu) which the moai stand upon. Ahu Tongariki is also home to the largest amount of restored moai on the whole island.
Once we have visited these insightful sites, we will return to Hanga Roa where you will visit the family house of Mahinatur. You’ll also have the chance to learn about what grows on the island: the local trees, flowers and the typical vegetation. A boxed lunch will be provided.
Heading to Te Pito Kura, a rock with magnetic properties, it is said to have been brought by the first king, also called ‘the navel of the world.’ You will also see Paro moai, the island's largest transported moai (it has been moved from the quarry). Lying face down, toppled from its ahu, Paro weighs 82 tonnes.
To end our magical day, we will visit one of the most important sites in Rapa Nui culture, Hanga Rau o Te Ariki, where the Ahu Nau-Nau, a platform with seven moai statues (some wearing stone crowns and hats), sits facing the sea at Anakena beach. Our guide will tell us all about the history of this beautiful place.
We will spend about 30 minutes here. Go for a swim in the crystal clear sea or relax with a book on the white sand.
Following your tour you will return to your hotel where the remainder of the evening is free.
Inspiring Highlights
This morning after breakfast we will depart the hotel around 9am. On today’s tour you will learn about Rapa Nui mythology, discover important elements of the island's geography, and understand the enigmatic history of the ancient inhabitants of this isolated point on the planet.
We will take guided tours of Orongo Village and Rano Kau and Vinapu, some of the most important ceremonial centers of Easter Island. The journey includes rock paintings and archaeological sites of significant cultural value, an ascent to the Rano Kau volcano, and an interpretive trail through the ancestral village of Orongo.
The impressive Rano Kau crater, the widest and deepest on the island, and a visit to the platform (ahu) to view carved rocks and the remains of moai and pukao, rounds out the morning tour before returning to your hotel.
At 2.30pm, we’ll head off on our afternoon tour of archaeological sites Ahu Akivi, Ana Te Pahu, and Puna Pau. We’ll view the platform with seven moai that, according to oral tradition, was created in honor of the first explorers of Rapa Nui. We’ll also explore the pukao quarry, Puna Pau, where the most decorative pukao (hat-like structures or topknots on top of moai statues) can be seen. There’s also a stellar, panoramic view of Hanga Roa village to enjoy.
We will also visit the magnificent cave, Ana Te Pahu, which was used by the ancient Rapa Nui as a dwelling and refuge during times of social instability.
We’ll return to the hotel where the rest of the day is at leisure.
Inspiring Highlights
On this morning's city tour of Rapa Nui, you will gain further insight into the history of the Rapa Nui people as we learn more about the megalithic stage of Rapa Nui culture.
We’ll start on the west coast where one historically significant site, Ahu Tahai, has three different ahus (altars) - Ahu Ko Te Riku, Ahu Vai Uri, and Ahu Tahai - and features a moai with coral eyes. Our journey will continue to Ahu Hanga Kio’e, located 3 km from the village on the island's west coast near Tahai.
Legend has it that this ceremonial center announced the investiture of the Ariki Henua (the island's king). It's a beautiful place that we’ll reach by foot from the Tahai area. On our route, we’ll stop at Padre Sebastián Englert Anthropological Museum, which houses a valuable collection of graphics and drawings depicting Rapa Nui culture. Established in 1973, the museum has a large collection (around
1,500 pieces) detailing the island's cultural heritage.
We’ll return to the hotel to collect your luggage and you’ll be transferred to Mataveri International Airport for your included flight back to Santiago.
On arrival in Santiago you will be met and transferred to your hotel.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 7 hours.
Your included flight allows one checked bag up to 23kg (51 lbs), and one 7kg (15 lbs) carry-on, with options to increase your luggage allowance at the airport if needed. Your flight will be unescorted, however your tour guide will assist you on either end to ensure that your journey is trouble free.
On your departure from Easter Island you will say goodbye to your local representative, and your group will be met by a local representative in Santiago.
Today you are free to explore Santiago at your leisure.
Santiago, Chile, offers a vibrant mix of culture and nature. Why not start your day at Plaza de Armas, the city’s historic heart, where you can admire the Metropolitan Cathedral and nearby museums. Take a stroll through the bohemian Bellavista neighborhood, known for its colorful street art and lively cafes.
For stunning views, head to Cerro San Cristóbal. You can hike or take a funicular to the summit for panoramic vistas of the Andes.
Explore the modern side of Santiago in the Lastarria district, filled with art galleries and boutique shops. With its rich history, vibrant arts scene, and access to nature, Santiago offers something for everyone!
Early this morning you will be transferred to the airport for your included flight to Puerto Natales, gateway to the famous Torres del Paine National Park.
On arrival, you are met by a local representative and transferred to your hotel where the rest of your day is at leisure.
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 6.5 hours.
Your included flight allows one checked bag up to 15kg (33 lbs), and one 7kg (15 lbs) carry-on, with options to increase your luggage allowance at the airport if needed. Your flight will be unescorted, however, your tour guide will assist you on either end to ensure that your journey is trouble-free.
Upon arrival in Puerto Natales, a local representative will meet you and transfer you to the hotel. Sightseeing tours will be led by local guides, often native to the area, who provide in-depth insights into the region's history, culture, and way of life at key attractions.
You will be collected from the hotel this morning to join a shared full-day tour of the incredible Torres del Paine National Park.
Begin by visiting the ancient Cueva del Milodón, known for its historical significance and natural beauty. Next, explore the village Cerro Castillo, a former livestock farm before entering the breathtaking Torres del Paine National Park, known for its wildlife and stunning views. Experience the highlights of the park, including Lake Nordenskjold, Pehoé, and the picturesque Salto Grande waterfall. Take a short hike to appreciate the park's lakes, rivers, and diverse flora and fauna. Enjoy an included lunch within the park before continuing to Grey Lake and Glacier, a remarkable part of the Southern Patagonian Ice Field. Walk through the scenic lehenga beech woods to the lake's shore and marvel at the impressive icebergs.
Late this afternoon we transfer back to Puerto Natales returning back to your hotel between 7pm- 8pm this evening. The evening will be free to have dinner and relax after a long day of exploring.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your touring today is based on a shared service with other guests and a multi-lingual guide (Spanish & English).
Please note that the tour routing and inclusions are subject to weather conditions.
Today is a full day at leisure to relax or explore the region at your own pace. Alternatively, you may wish to join the optional tour below.
Embark on an optional full day sailing adventure through Balmaceda and Serrano Glaciers by catamaran. The journey begins with a visit to the impressive Frigorífico Bories Historical Monument. As the catamaran sails along Canal Señoret, keep an eye out for delightful Commerson's dolphins near Guanaco Island. At Margot Farm, witness the captivating sight of Magellanic cormorants with their wings spread wide at Pared de Cormoranes. Experience the lively presence of sea lions at Punta de Lobos, and admire condors while visiting waterfalls and cliffs. Each stop provides awe-inspiring landscapes to behold. The voyage continues towards Monte Balmaceda, granting stunning views of the glacier that shares its name. Upon landing in Puerto Toro, embark on a guided one-hour walk alongside Témpanos Lagoon, passing through a native forest adorned with Dombey's beeches, Antarctic beeches, and Chilean firetrees, and culminating in the magnificent Serrano glacier.
Meeting Point: Hotel
Includes: Shared guided boat trip by catamaran in Spanish and English, Bernardo O`Higgins ticket fee, lunch, hotel return transfers.
Start Time: 7:30am
Duration: 10 - 12 hours
Early this morning you will be transferred to the bus station and assisted in boarding the tourist shuttle service to El Calafate in Argentina - the gateway for exploring the breathtaking Los Glaciares National Park, home to iconic attractions such as the world-famous Perito Moreno Glacier.
Upon arrival at the El Calafate bus station this afternoon, a friendly local representative will be waiting to greet you and provide assistance with your transfer to your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure.
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 6 hours.
Your bus journey today will be unescorted and on a shared tourist shuttle, however, your local representatives will assist you on either end to ensure that your journey is trouble free.
This morning you will be collected from your hotel at approximately 9am to join a shared full day tour of the incredible Perito Moreno Glacier and Los Glaciares National Park. On the journey, enjoy the breathtaking view of Argentino Lake and Redonda Bay, home to diverse bird species and surrounded by the picturesque yellow fields of the Patagonian steppe. Once at the glacier, marvel at its majestic presence. The catwalks are divided into three circuits: Central Balconies, Lower Balcony, and Coast's Balcony, each offering resting and panoramic viewpoints where you will have ample time to explore the catwalks on your own experiencing the awe-inspiring beauty of the glacier.
Additionally, you can take an optional boat tour to approach the glacier's southern front.
The rest of the evening will be spent at your leisure.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your touring today is based on a shared service with other guests and a multi-lingual guide (Spanish & English).
Join us on a one-hour voyage along the Rico branch of Argentino Lake to witness the breathtaking south wall of the Perito Moreno Glacier. This glacier boasts an impressive ice wall that stands approximately 60m high and extends 100m below the lake's surface. The boat will approach the glacier, coming within 200m of where it meets the Magallanes Peninsula. From there, the boat will continue along the approximately 3km stretch of the glacier's south wall. During the journey, you'll have the opportunity to witness the daily landslides and admire the mesmerising beauty of the glacier's seracs, cracks, and intense blue hues. We highly recommend combining this navigation experience with your visit to the glacier for a comprehensive exploration.
Meeting Point: Port on the Bay "Under the Shadow”
Includes: Includes shared navigation guided in Spanish & English
Departures: 10:00am, 11:30am and 2:30pm (booking will be based on availability)
Duration: 1 hour
Enjoy today at leisure relaxing in the charming town of El Calafate. Alternatively, you may like to take one of the optional day tours below. Note the below optional tours operate simultaneously so only one option can be selected.
Transfer to Punta Bandera, located 47 km from El Calafate, where your navigation adventure begins on the North Arm of Lake Argentino. Experience the thrill of crossing the Boca del Diablo and entering the Upsala Canal, navigating through a sea of massive icebergs that emerge from the front of the Upsala Glacier. As you sail through the picturesque Spegazzini Channel, you'll be treated to your first view of the impressive Dry Glacier. The journey continues until you reach the front of the Spegazzini Glacier, where you can admire the magnificent Heim Sur and Peineta glaciers.
Disembark at The Spegazzini Base and begin a leisurely walk along a forest path that leads to the Spegazzini Refuge. Along the way, enjoy stunning viewpoints overlooking the entire Bay of Los Glaciers. For those who enjoy hiking, there is a medium-difficulty trekking option along a wooded road with natural viewpoints, culminating at the landing point. The forest trail spans 300 metres from the disembarking point to the Spegazzini Shelter. During the walk, you'll encounter different stations providing insights into glaciology, history, flora, and fauna, and access to various viewpoints. This is an easy path, with no complexities as you walk on solid ground.
Meeting Point: Hotel
Includes: Shared guided tour in English & Spanish, transfer hotel - pier - hotel, boat tickets, national park tickets.
Start Time: 7.00am
Duration: 9 hours
Embark on a remarkable journey to El Chaltén, located at the base of Mount Fitz Roy in southern Patagonia. Travel along the legendary Route 40, passing by the scenic Argentinian Lake and making a stop at Parador La Leona. Admire the breathtaking views of Viedma Lake and Glacier before arriving at the charming mountain village. Your guide will provide a lunch box, and you can explore the self-guided trails, such as Capri Lagoon and Fitz Roy Viewpoint. In the late afternoon, meet at the designated point for the return trip to El Calafate. Cherish the unforgettable experiences and natural beauty of this Patagonian adventure.
Meeting Point: Hotel
Includes: Shared guided tour in Spanish & English, free time to do self-guided trekking, maps and box-lunch.
Start Time: 7:30am
Duration: 13 hours
Please note that this tour is subject to weather conditions and you must have a reasonable level of fitness to navigate uneven paths and steep ascents/descents.
Meet your local representative after breakfast this morning in the hotel lobby for your transfer to the airport to continue our journey by flight to Ushuaia. This southernmost city in Argentina offers a unique experience with around 18 hours of sunlight in the summer and 7-8 hours in winter. The city serves as a gateway to breathtaking voyages along the Beagle Channel and Lapataia Bay in Tierra del Fuego National Park.
This afternoon enjoy a three-hour navigation of the Beagle Channel by catamaran. Along the way, you'll witness the stunning coastal view of Ushuaia as you sail southwest, you'll approach Sea Lion's Island, home to a colony of sea lions, and journey past Birds Island, where you can observe Magellanic Cormorants and Imperial Cormorants. The final destination is the Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse, located in the archipelago of the same name. On the return, you'll pass through Paso Chico, catching sight of Estancias Tunnel and Fique, while enjoying the magnificent backdrop of Monte Martial and its glacier.
This evening will be spent at your leisure, to explore Ushuaia.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 4.5 hours.
Depending on weather and arrival time of your flight, the Beagle Channel tour may occur on the following day after the Tierra del Fuego Park tour. This tour is a shared service.
Your included flight allows one checked bag up to 15kg (33 lbs), and one 7kg (15 lbs) carry-on, with options to increase your luggage allowance at the airport if needed. Your flight will be unescorted, however, your tour guide will assist you on either end to ensure that your journey is trouble free.
On arrival into Ushuaia, your group will be met by a local representative, who will meet and greet you and transfer you to your hotel.
This morning at approximately 8.00 am, meet your local guide in the hotel lobby to join a tour through the Tierra del Fuego National Park. Accessed via National Route No. 3 southwest of Ushuaia, the route includes Río Pipo, Monte Susana, Ensenada Bay, Redonda Island, Lake Roca, Casita del Bosque, Green and Black Lagoon, Beaver Dam, and Lapataia Bay. The Park's topography is diverse, featuring rugged mountains, rivers, valleys, and lakes, offering picturesque streams, majestic mountains, and the breathtaking Beagle Channel. In spring and summer, vibrant flowers and diverse tree species can be seen. Mammals such as foxes, rabbits, muskrats, and beavers inhabit the Park, while unique bird species like the black-browed albatross, oystercatcher overo, and white cauquén can be observed.
A highlight today is a ride aboard the “End of the World Train”. Relive the history of the old convict's train, offering magnificent landscape views along the Pipo River, Macarena cascade, tree cemetery, and enchanting forests within the Tierra del Fuego National Park.
Return to the hotel around lunchtime, where the rest of the afternoon and evening are at leisure.
Inspiring Highlights
Tierra del Fuego National Park
End of the World Train
Special Information
The tour is a shared service with a multi-lingual guide (English and Spanish) and up to 45 passengers
Today after breakfast, transfer to Ushuaia airport for your included flight to Buenos Aires. On arrival you are met by a local representative and transferred to your hotel located in the heart of this beautiful city.
Take time to relax and explore the local area as the rest of today is at leisure. Alternatively, you may wish to experience true Argentinian culture and hospitality at a dinner and a tango show.
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 7 hours.
Experience the essence of Buenos Aires at Café de los Angelitos with an unforgettable tango show. Let the live orchestra's music mesmerise you while you marvel at the dancers' passionate and dramatic performances. Immerse yourself in over a century of Buenos Aires' history through the captivating art of tango as you indulge in traditional Argentine cuisine and savour local wines. With 21 talented artists captivating your senses, Café de los Angelitos guarantees a unique and enchanting evening you won't want to miss.
Meeting Point: Hotel
Includes: Hotel transfers, show, 3 course dinner with beverages and wine.
Start Time: Approximately 7:30pm
Duration: 4 hours
Today is free to venture out and explore all that this incredible city has to offer.
Located on the banks of the Río de la Plata, Buenos Aires is a city of contrasts. You’ll find grand avenues with fine European architecture, and vibrant neighbourhoods buzzing with Latin American flair – it is the birthplace of tango, after all.
The food scene in Buenos Aires is happening. If you’re a fan of steak, a visit to a parrilla (steakhouse) is in order – Argentines are known for their love of beef and asado (barbeque). Make like a Porteño and grab a choripán, a classic Argentinian hot dog made with chorizo. There are plenty of food stands dotted around the city where you can buy an empanada, the classic Argentine snack. You’ll also find great ice cream, especially the Argentine favourite dulche de leche flavour. Argentina’s oldest and arguably most famous café, Café Tortoni, is a great place for coffee and people watching.
Tomorrow you will meet your fellow travellers joining the tour for the remaining portion of your journey.
In the morning, meet your local tour guide at approximately 8am for a welcome meeting and a briefing on the trip ahead. This meeting will be followed by a city tour of Buenos Aires before transferring to the airport for your flight to Iguazu.
During the city tour we’ll head to Plaza de Mayo (Main Square) and see the pink-hued Casa Rosada (Government Palace) – this is, of course, where Juan and Eva Perón delivered famous speeches from the balconies. See Metropolitan Cathedral and City Hall followed by some free time for lunch (not included). Learn more about Argentina’s passion – fútbol (football) – by visiting vibrant La Boca. We’ll pass by La Bombonera, the iconic stadium of the Boca Juniors, and see Puerto Madero on the waterfront, the most modern neighbourhood of the city. We’ll finish with a visit to the upscale Recoleta neighbourhood, with its elegant buildings and the most exclusive pocket of the city, Alvear Avenue.
The flight to Puerto Iguazu is approximately 1.5hrs long. On arrival you will be transferred across to the Brazil side of the falls for your accommodation.
The Iguazu Falls are located where the Iguazu River cascades over the edge of the Paraná Plateau, created by an enormous volcanic eruption more than 130 million years ago. Straddling the Argentine-Brazil border, the falls are made up of up to 275 individual waterfalls, lining a 2.7km-wide horseshoe-shaped gorge. It’s a truly breathtaking sight to see the unyielding force of nature in such a magnificent setting.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.
Your included flight allows one checked bag up to 15kg (33 lbs), and one 7kg (15 lbs) carry-on, with options to increase your luggage allowance at the airport if needed. Your flight will be unescorted, however your tour guide will assist you on either end to ensure that your journey is trouble free.
If you require a Brazil visa, please ensure it allows for multiple entry as you will cross the border twice during your time in Iguazu.
On your departure from Buenos Aires you will say goodbye to your tour guide, and your group will be met by a local guide in Iguazu, who will meet and greet you, coordinate your activities in town and be reachable to assist you as needed. Local guides, frequently native to the area, lead tours at specific sites or attractions, offering a deeper understanding of the local history, art, or way of life.
These spectacular falls can be viewed from both sides; the Brazilian side offers a broader, panoramic view, and the Argentinian side offers a series of catwalks that allow you to experience the Falls up close.
This morning after breakfast you’ll explore Iguazu Falls from the Argentinian side. Beginning at the visitor’s centre, you’ll explore the upper footbridges. These footbridges, raised off the jungle floor, provide panoramic views from above the falls.
The noise as these mighty falls plunge to the bottom of the narrow canyon is almost deafening. There’s the chance of getting under the falls, with an optional excursion, the Gran Aventura.
You’ll return to the hotel in the afternoon to enjoy the evening at your leisure.
Inspiring Highlights
The best way to experience the falls is to get right in the action. You’ll travel through lush landscape by specially designed tracks. This five-kilometre long ride ends at Puerto Macuco. Board a small jet boat and explore Lower Iguazu River for as long as six kilometres, heading towards the waterfalls area to enjoy the sight of plenty of small cascades. From the Tres Mosqueteros Falls, see the falls on both the Argentinian and Brazilian sides crowned by the view of the Garganta del Diablo (Devil’s Throat). Afterwards, it’s surely a highlight when you face the incomparable San Martín waterfall. After that we’ll navigate downriver to Puerto Macuco. You’ll walk up the hill, about 150 metres, and ride a truck back to the starting point. Following your tour you will be transferred back to your hotel.
Meeting Point: Iguazu Falls Visitor Centre or nearby designated areas
Includes: Jungle ride by truck, jet boat ride, lifejacket and professional guides
Start Time: 11:30 am or 12:45pm
Duration: 2 hours
Please note: This tour is unsuitable for pregnant women, people with back injuries, heart conditions or those with hearing aids. Children under 12 are not permitted to join this tour. Poncho’s or raincoats are not provided so be prepared to get very wet!
After breakfast, you’ll tour the relatively dry Brazilian side of the falls, with breathtaking panoramic views at every turn. Uninterrupted vistas of the Floriana Falls, the Devil’s Gorge canyon and the Iguazu River are spectacular and guaranteed to impress.
You’ll then be transferred to the airport for your flight to Rio de Janeiro.
Bem vindo ao Rio - Welcome to Rio! You’ll be met at Galeao International Airport and transferred to your hotel in Copacabana, on the city’s dazzling iconic shoreline.
Nicknamed a cidade maravilhosa (the marvellous city), Rio de Janeiro is world-renowned for its dazzling landscapes and location, nestled between steep, green mountains and crystal-clear seas.
The city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site for not only its ‘staggeringly beautiful location’, but its cultural landscape. The city is full of energy. Cariocas, the locals of Rio, are known for their carefree spirit and charm.
Rio is one of the most important cultural and economic cities in Brazil and is home to some of the country’s most famous attractions, like Sugarloaf Mountain (Pão de Açúcar), Corcovado Hill, and Copacabana and Ipanema beaches. The city comes alive for Carnival celebrations each winter, an extravagant pre-Lenten spectacle with street parades and samba parties.
Enjoy a free night to explore this fantastic city.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 6 hours.
On your departure from Iguazu you will say goodbye to your tour guide, and your group will be met by a local guide in Rio de Janeiro, who will meet and greet you, coordinate your activities in town and be reachable to assist you as needed.
Your included flight allows one checked bag up to 23kg (51lbs), and one 7kg (15 lbs) carry-on, with options to increase your luggage allowance at the airport if needed. Your flight will be unescorted, however your tour guide will assist you on either end to ensure that your journey is trouble free.
Get a spectacular aerial view of Iguazu Falls during a 10-minute helicopter ride. Board a state-of-the-art helicopter flown by an experienced pilot in Foz do Iguaçu. You’ll soar above the magnificent falls to get a bird's-eye view of the rushing water and the surrounding rainforest while enjoying commentary from your pilot. Be sure to bring your camera for amazing photo opportunities and your passport for the border crossing.
Meeting Point: Close to the Iguazu National Park entrance
Includes: 10 minute Helicopter Ride
Start Time: Operates on demand
Duration: 10 minutes plus queuing time
This morning after breakfast, you’ll meet your local guide who will welcome you and brief you on the next couple days. Then we’ll embark on a full day tour of Rio de Janeiro to see the city’s famous landmarks, like Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf Mountain.
We’ll take a scenic drive from Copacabana Beach, continuing along Botafogo Beach and passing the imposing Guanabara Palace on the way to Corcovado Hill. At the top we’ll find the greatest national icon, Christ the Redeemer, standing tall over the city with arms outstretched. This giant Art Deco statue was recently named as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. The panoramic views of the city are lovely from up here, 709 metres at the summit.
We’ll then continue on to the district of Urca and the world-famous rocky peak of Sugarloaf Mountain, where you’ll board the first cable car to the top of Urca Hill, enjoying spectacular views of Guanabara Bay.
A second cable car takes you on to Sugarloaf, with 360-degree views of the city and surroundings. Sugarloaf Mountain towers over the harbour, 400 metres above the mouth of Guanabara Bay.
Afterwards, we’ll pass through the famous beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema en route to a traditional Brazilian lunch at a local churrascaria, an all-you-can-eat barbeque.
After lunch, we’ll visit the Maracanã Stadium, home of Bellini’s statue and the Hall of Fame. Brazilians also love their football (soccer) and this is their biggest stadium. Entrance to the stadium is not included. And there will be a stop at the Sambadrome, the stadium for the city’s main Carnival parade.
As we pass through the city’s historic centre, you’ll have a chance to see the Lapa Arches. Built in the middle of the 18th century, this aqueduct is an impressive example of colonial architecture and engineering. We’ll also make a quick stop to see the colourful Selaron Stairs, an amazing urban work of art by the late Jorge Selaron. These steps are decorated with more than 2,000 brightly coloured tiles and mirrors.
We’ll return to the hotel along Aterro de Flamengo (Flamengo Park), passing by the Monument to the Dead of World War II and the beaches of Flamengo and Botafogo.
Tonight will be another night at your leisure to soak up the nightlife of Rio.
Inspiring Highlights
Today is a free day for you to enjoy the rhythm of this vibrant, bustling city. Your tour guide will be at hand to assist with suggestions and optional activities. Relax on the legendary beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema or take one of the tours on offer to explore more of this iconic city.
The famous crescent-shaped beach of Copacabana is a tourist hotspot. It’s lively, vibrant and busy… round-the-clock busy. The golden sand stretches nearly four kilometres long, from Copacabana Fort to Leme Beach. It’s lined with high-rise hotels, including the iconic Copacabana where Barry Manilow penned that hit in the 1970s.
Wander the iconic black and white promenade – it’s everything you imagined. Swaying palm trees, skimpy bikinis and people sunning themselves, playing volleyball, dancing and swimming. Beach vendors stroll up and down the shore, selling all manner of snacks, souvenirs and drinks.
Ipanema Beach is more upscale, the place to see and be seen. You’ll find more locals chilling out here.
If you are planning to take a dip in the warm Carioca waters, make sure you leave your belongings at your hotel. Unfortunately, opportunistic theft can be a regular occurrence.
If you want to relax off the beach, the Rio de Janeiro Botanical Gardens are lovely for a stroll. There’s a Japanese garden, a pond filled with water lilies and 600 species of orchids.
Head to the Benedictine Church and Monastery of São Bento, founded in 1590. The unassuming exterior is in complete contrast to the intricate interior, covered with gilded carved wood and decorated with exquisite wooden statues. São Francisco da Penitência is an elaborate church – you have to see inside to believe it, with its rich gold leaf interior. The choir ceiling has the earliest trompe-l’oeil painting in the country, painted by Caetano da Costa Coelho in 1736.
For a taste of Rio nightlife – or just great people watching – head to the Lapa neighbourhood in downtown (where you saw the Lapa Arches yesterday). As Rio’s party district, it’s home to samba bars and a huge street party every weekend. Try the national drink caipirinha, a cocktail of sugar, cachaça and lime.
Discover the irresistible flavours of Rio de Janeiro on a food tour that combines the city's and Brazil's culinary diversity with its rich history and culture. Throughout the tour, you'll have the opportunity to explore a traditional Farmer's Market in the South Zone, where you can taste fresh tropical fruits, cheeses, and local snacks. You'll also visit a restaurant specialising in Amazonian ingredients and dishes, offering a unique and exotic culinary experience. The tour includes stops at iconic locations such as Parque das Ruínas in Santa Teresa, where art, culture, and breathtaking views come together, and the famous Escadaria Selarón in Lapa. At some point, we'll pause at the Cortiço Carioca restaurant to enjoy a refreshing caipirinha while hearing local stories. During the tour, you'll get to sample a variety of traditional Brazilian snacks, such as pastel, bolinho de bacalhau, tapioca, regional cheeses, açaí, and traditional sweets, along with drinks like cachaça, natural juices, and caipirinhas. Our tour aims to support local businesses, offering a chance to experience not only the flavours but also the stories of the people behind these treats.
Meeting Point: Hotel
Includes: Transfers, guide, food, water, juices, caipirinhas and other drinks.
Start Time: 8:30am
End Time: 2:30pm
Please note: On weekdays the tour will visit Cinelândia Square instead of Santa Teresa. The order of the tour will depend on the guide and weather conditions. This tour will be conducted on foot, so we recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes to ensure a pleasant and enjoyable experience.
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