Rio Pantanal Iguassu Falls Lima Cusco Machu Picchu
A spectacular trip from Rio to Lima that cuts through the very heart of the continent, from Atlantic to Pacific coast. Sway to the heady beats of Samba on Copacabana Beach; marvel at the mightly Iguassu Falls; experience the wildlife extravaganza of Brazil’s Pantanal before heading across to Peru to explore the Inca wonders of Cusco and Machu Picchu. This itinerary offers a thrilling snapshot of South America from Andean mountains and ancient ruins to wildlife, tropical forest and vibrant culture.
Itinerary Highlights
Take a cable-car up Sugar Loaf Mountain
Venture into the wildlife wonderland of the Pantanal
Take a boat trip under Iguassu Falls
Tour the museums, galleries and ancient ruins of Cusco
Marvel at Machu Picchu, the lost city of the Inca
What’s included
Private tours for most included activities
Meet & greet airport service
Luxury or boutique accommodation at your chosen level
Expert guides in each destination
flexibility
This is an example itinerary. It is fully flexible; you can add or detract days and include hotels at your chosen budget. It departs daily.
16
Nights
Price Guide
$8500 – $10500 pp
Our quotes are bespoke for your customised trip. The prices displayed are indicative only, read more
Day 1
Fly to Rio
Day 2-3
Rio de Janeiro
Arrive Rio and transfer to your oceanfront hotel overlooking the iconic golden beaches of Copacabana or Ipanema. Rio is South America’s most exciting city framed against a backdrop of soaring granite peaks cloaked in Atlantic Rainforest. Rio fizzes with energy and options – take a cable car up the Sugar Loaf, head up to the Statue of Christ the Redeemer on Corcovado Mountain or plunge into the Tijuca National park with spectacular views across the city. For foodies enjoy a cooking class or street food safari or simply wind down on a cruise across Guanabara Bay watching the sun set across the city.
Day 4-6
The Pantanal
Fly into the Pantanal, the wildlife capital of South America! The Pantanal is among the world’s largest seasonal wetlands, over 140,000 square kilometres of forest, pampa grasslands and marsh which harbours an extraordinary diversity of wildlife including giant anteaters, giant river otters, tapirs, capybara, marsh dear, caiman, and even the elusive jaguar. Based at a rustic wildlife lodge or traditional working ranch, you will head out each day accompanied by expert naturalist guides to observe the region’s wonderful wildlife. Enjoy guided walks, boat-trip and vehicle safaris as well as birdwatching and night spotting. The Pantanal is cowboy country dominated by huge “fazenda” farmsteads and what better way to experience the Pantanal than on horseback.
Day 7-9
Iguazu falls
Fly to Foz do Iguacu, home to the mighty Iguassu Falls, one of South America’s true wonders and a staggering display of raw nature. Visit the waterfalls from both the Brazilian and Argentine side of the border, enjoy boat-trips under the raging water itself or treat yourself to a scenic helicopter overflight over the incredible gorge. The surrounding rainforest is ringed with wildlife trails, excellent for birders and photographers alike.
Day 10-11
Lima
Fly to Lima on the Pacific shoulder of South America, a country shaped by the Andes, the Inca and numerous pre-Columbian civilisations. Head into the colonial centre, tour the ancient pyramid of Huaca Pucllana and lose yourself in the fascinating Larco Herrera Musuem. Lima is the foodie capital of South America, home to the acclaimed Central and Maido restaurants as well as the wonderful Surquillo Market, the perfect place for a cooking class or culinary experience.
Day 12-14
Cusco
Fly to the wonderful Inca capital of Cusco, a city brimming with museums, galleries, Inca palaces and colonial treasures. The Korikancha Inca Temple of Sun and the towering colonial cathedral are unmissable, and you may also like to delve into the flavours and scents of San Pedro market or traditional workshops of San Blas. Head into the hills above the city and you can explore the ruined fortress of Sacsayhuaman and the fascinating sites of Qenko and Tambo Machay, while walkers may like to return to Cusco via the Temple of the Moon and the eerie cliffs of the Devil’s Balcony.
Day 15-16
Machu Picchu
The face of South America, Machu Picchu lies a train ride away from Cusco, a dizzying journey that skirts the Urubamba River through the picture-postcard Vilcabamba mountains. On disembarking at Aguas Calientes, you head up to the citadel for a guided tour through the stunning terraces, palaces, temples and landscaped gardens of Machu Picchu. For hikers, you might like to venture out to the shrines atop Machu Picchu Mountain and Huayna Picchu or even take on the stunning 1 Day Inca Trail, a 6 hour walk through the lush cloud-forested mountains to reach Machu Picchu via the iconic Inca sun-gate and impressive ruins of Wiñay Wayna. Enjoy 2 days at Machu Picchu before returning to Cusco for a final night.
Day 17
Fly to Santiago
A note on price
The prices outlined above are a rough guide to give you an idea of costs and enable you to budget for your trip.
Guide prices are generally for private arrangements based on twin share, in well located, good quality accommodation (excluding international flights).
Please note costs are indicative and may vary due to a number of factors such as; travel date, hotel choice, room category, number of people travelling and prevailing exchange rates.
Price Guide $8500 – $10500 per person
When to travel
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Brazil is a year-round destination and no matter what month you visit, you can find a golden, sun-kissed beach if you are prepared to travel. The tropical north straddles the equator and is warmer – up to 40° at the height of summer – and wetter around the Amazon basin. Heading south, temperatures cool off especially towards the south dropping as low as 15° in winter with even snow falling on the mountains of the Serra Geral close to the border of Argentina. Between November and April, Rio and the south provide ideal beach conditions and are hot and steamy with tempestuous downpours particularly in January through to March. During this period, Iguassu Falls are at their most impressive – though at times the spray can obscure the views – while the Pantanal is oppressive and worth avoiding. Outside these months, head to the north-east coast for sun, hottest (and wettest) on the Bahian coast between April and July.
The average temperature in Brazil during the month of January is around 25°C. However, temperatures can vary depending on the region of the country. Coastal areas tend to be more humid, while inland regions can experience hotter and drier weather. Regardless of location, it's always a good idea to stay hydrated and protected from the sun during the hot summer months in Brazil.
During the month of February, the weather in Brazil can range from around 20°C to 30°C, depending on the region. Coastal areas tend to be more humid, while inland regions can experience hotter and drier weather. It is advisable to stay hydrated and protected from the sun during the hot summer months in Brazil.
In March, temperatures in Brazil typically range from 21°C to 31°C, depending on the region. Coastal areas may experience higher humidity levels, while inland regions can be hotter and drier. It is important to stay hydrated and protected from the sun during the warm and sunny days.
In April, temperatures in Brazil typically range from 20°C to 29°C, depending on the region. Coastal areas may experience higher humidity levels, while inland regions can be hotter and drier. It is important to stay hydrated and protected from the sun during the warm and sunny days.
In May, temperatures in Brazil usually range from 18°C to 27°C, depending on the region. Coastal areas may still experience higher humidity levels, while inland regions can be hotter and drier. It's advisable to remain hydrated and protected from the sun during the warm and sunny days.
In June, temperatures in Brazil typically range from 15°C to 24°C, with coastal areas experiencing slightly higher humidity levels. Inland regions can be slightly cooler and drier. It's still important to stay hydrated and protected from the sun during this time.
In July, temperatures in Brazil typically range from 14°C to 23°C, with coastal areas experiencing slightly higher humidity levels. Inland regions can be slightly cooler and drier. It's still important to stay hydrated and protected from the sun during this time.
During August, temperatures in Brazil usually range from 15°C to 24°C, depending on the region. Coastal areas can be more humid, while inland regions may be cooler and drier. It's still essential to stay hydrated and protected from the sun during this time of the year.
In September, temperatures in Brazil can vary greatly depending on the region. Coastal areas may experience temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C, while inland regions may be cooler with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C. It's important to be prepared for both warm and cooler temperatures while traveling throughout Brazil in September.
In October, temperatures in Brazil can vary depending on the region. Coastal areas may experience temperatures ranging from 22°C to 32°C, while inland regions may be cooler with temperatures ranging from 12°C to 27°C. It's important to be prepared for both warm and cooler temperatures while traveling throughout Brazil in October.
In November, Brazil experiences a range of temperatures depending on the region. Coastal areas may experience temperatures ranging from 23°C to 33°C, while inland regions may be cooler with temperatures ranging from 13°C to 28°C. It's important to be prepared for both warm and cooler temperatures while traveling throughout Brazil in November.
In December, Brazil typically experiences warm temperatures throughout the country. Coastal areas may see temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C, while inland regions can expect temperatures ranging from 15°C to 30°C. It's important to take precautions against the heat and stay hydrated while traveling in Brazil during this time.
Add on’s
Brazil is synonymous with the beach with over 7000km of coastine. North of Rio, the vibrant, low-rise resort of Buzios offers charming boutique hotels and over 20 sandy beaches and coves to explore. Heading south, Brazil’s beautiful green coast is draped in lush Atlantic rainforest and splinters into a myriad of pristine islands off the shore. Options range from the picturesque Ilha Grande to Paraty, a charming colonial port and UNESCO World Heritage site.
From Lima, the Amazon Rainforest is just a short flight away, the perfect accompaniment to Iguassu ansd the Pantanal while for the ultimate wildlife experience, why not fly on to the spellbinding Galapagos Islands accessed via Quito or Guayaquil. The best way to explore the remarkable wildlife is on a live-aboard cruise, ideally 5-7 nights (please click here for our favourite yachts, ships, catamarans and motor-cruisers).
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