South American Small Group History and Culture Tour

Upon arrival in Santiago, we will come to our accommodation individually. We will enjoy dinner at the hotel.

Contact Odyssey if you plan to arrive a day or two early and would like suggestions of things to see and do in Santiago.

(D)

We will take a morning tour of the city’s highlights, starting with a visit to the Palacio de la Moneda Cultural Center, a beacon of artistic expression where national treasures blends seamlessly with the innovations of international artists. Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of contemporary and historical masterpieces that adorn the walls of this iconic venue.

We continue to the the convent-museum of San Francisco, nestled in the heart of Santiago. Lose yourself in the tranquil corridors and verdant gardens of this Andean Colonial gem, where every stone whisper tales of a bygone era.

We’ll pause for lunch at a local restaurant before returning to the hotel and the remainder of the day is at leisure.

(B,L)

We will transfer to the airport to board a flight to Lima.

On arrival we’ll be transferred to our hotel and enjoy some free time before meeting again for dinner at our hotel.

(B,D)

In the morning we visit Pachacamac, the pre-Inca sacred and ceremonial site, dating back to the 3rd century BC, where countless of pilgrims from across the Andean world arrived to leave their offerings and to consult the oracle of Pachacamac. The site is comprised of pyramidal temples, plazas, roads, residential areas and enclosures built by several Pre-Columbian cultures and the Incas.

After lunch at a local restaurant we continue our a sightseeing tour of Lima. We befin wth a stop at the Main Square from where we view the Government Palace, Cathedral and City hall, all examples of Lima’s colonial architecture. We’ll visit the inside of the Cathedral and see the various architectural styles within and learn more about the history and religion in Peru. Next we visit Santo Domingo convent, founded in 1540 with its beautiful cloister covered with tiles and a library with a collection of over 25,000 books. From the convent’s bell tower one can see the entire city of Lima and the port of Callao.

In the evening, we enjoy dinner at Rosa Nautica Restaurant.

(B,L,D)

This morning we will transfer to the airport for a flight to Puerto Maldonado. Upon our arrival in Puerto Maldonado, we will be met at the airport and escorted on the 25-minute boat ride on the Madre de Dios River to the Inkaterra Hacienda Concepción lodge. After lunch, we will take a walk along the Concepción trail system, where we can explore and learn more about primary and secondary forest, their vegetation, uses, the changes caused by humankind, and the importance of the forests to the rest of the world.

In the late afternoon, we will set off on an excursion by motorized canoe to learn more about the nighttime forest. We will learn about this ecosystem composed of Amazonian gullies, how the forest’s nocturnal fauna behaves, and even take the time to enjoy the sight of the southern hemisphere’s constellations.

(B,L,D)

During the morning, we will take a forest trail walk to Lake Sandoval in the Tambopata National Reserve. We will explore the lake’s waters in a wooden canoe. This lake is home to many endangered species, such as giant river otters, red howler monkeys, red-bellied macaws, anacondas, and side-necked turtles. After lunch, we will walk through the tropical forest canopy for around a quarter of a mile, crossing a network of bridges that connect eight observation platforms. This excursion offers the prospect of spotting colorful toucans, woodpeckers and trogons, as well as monkeys, sloths, and many other Amazon species.

(B,L,D)

After breakfast we board a boat for a 25-min ride on the Madre de Dios river which will take us back to Puerto Maldonado. From there, we will fly to Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, marking the end of our jungle adventure.

On the way to the Sacred Valley, we will stop at Manos de la comunidad. Here, we will learn about the various types of camelids (Llamas, Alpacas, Vicuñas, and Guanacos) that live in the Andes region. Afterward, we continue to our hotel in the Sacred Valley for dinner, followed by time to rest and begin acclimating to the higher altitude.

(B,D)

This morning, we will visit Pisac, a beautiful place where Incan and Colonial influences have reached a perfect balance and created the unique way of life of the local inhabitants. We will get a chance to explore this quaint town, famous for its artisan markets where we can find extraordinarily fine jewelry and ceramic and textile craftwork. Afterwards, we will have lunch at Hacienda Huayoccari.

Then, we visit one of the last remaining Incan towns, Ollantaytambo, which was once fiercely guarded by a massive fortress. We will discover the large archaeological complex of what used to serve as a wayside inn for royal delegations on long journeys.

(B,L)

Early this morning, we will board a train to Aguas Calientes, the small village at the base of Machu Picchu. From there, we will take a mini-bus up the winding road to the citadel, where a guided tour will introduce us to its history and architecture, followed by time to explore at our own pace. Machu Picchu is the most iconic of the Inca settlements, perched on a mountaintop thousands of meters above the Urubamba Valley. Remarkably, it remained unknown to the outside world during the Spanish conquest and thus preserved. In 1911, American explorer Hiram Bingham brought the site to international attention, and archaeologists have since uncovered staircases, terraces, temples, palaces, towers, and fountains. Scholars believe the citadel was constructed in the mid-15th century under the Inca Emperor Pachacuti, inhabited and used by the Inca for religious, ceremonial, and administrative purposes.

We enjoy lunch at a local restaurant and dinner this evening is at our hotel.

(B,L,D)

This morning, enjoy a second visit to Machu Picchu to explore the site further. We then return to Aguas Calientes train station and board the train to Cusco.

Upon arrival, we’ll be met and transferred to Ollantaytambo for lunch and then return to Cusco via the Chinchero Village, famous for the extraordinary beauty and quality of its textiles.

We arrive at our hotel later in the afternoon and have some free time before dinner at the hotel. During your free time you can wander through the city’s narrow, winding cobblestone streets and take in the striking blend of Inca stonework and colonial Spanish architecture.

(B,L,D)

In the morning, we will explore the city of Cusco and visit its main historical monuments. Our first stop will be at Sacsayhuaman, an important archaeological center located outside of the city and according to history it was an Inca ceremonial fortress built with stones, many of which would weigh between 90 and 125 tons. Returning to the city, we will visit the San Pedro market where many products and ingredients are sold for the preparation of Peruvian cuisine and experience the commercial activity of the daily life of the Cusco population. Next on our tour will be the Cathedral Church located in the Plaza de Armas, one of the most beautiful and significant monuments in America, which brings together in its architecture the combination of Gothic, Baroque and Renaissance styles, and where an important sample of mestizo art from colonial times.

Next, we will enter to visit the Compañia de Jesus Churc which is also located in the Plaza de Armas and is considered one of the most beautiful and imposing Christian temples built during the colonial era, which, like many others, was built on an old Inca palace. We will then continue with the visit to the convent of Santo Domingo which is built on the ancient temple of Qoricancha that was destined for the worship of the Sun god, being one of the most sacred and respected buildings in the times of the Incas. The Qoricancha was built with finely joined stones with impressive precision and inside which the walls of various enclosures were covered with gold and silver sheets. Our excursion ends with a panoramic visit to San Blas church, which is in handicraft neighborhood named that because artisans settled in this part of the city and to this day preserve fine handcrafted works. At the end of the tour, we will drop you at your hotel and afternoon is free for you to enjoy the city at your own pace.

In the evening we’ll walk to a nearby restaurant for a group dinner at Limo Restaurant. , sampling Peruvian cuisine.

(B,D)

We will enjoy a day at leisure in Cusco.

Contact Odyssey for suggested things to do.

In the evening we meet and walk together to a dinner and a cultural show at Tunupa Restaurant.

(B,D)

Today, we will journey by train across the vast Altiplano from Cusco to Puno, a scenic ride of a little over 10 hours. You can enjoy the sweeping views from the brass-railed open carriage at the rear of the train or relax in the elegant bar lounge. The train’s vintage style, reminiscent of the legendary Orient Express. Upon arrival in Puno, we will transfer to our hotel.

(B,L)

This morning, we will visit the remarkable floating islands of Lake Titicaca, constructed from layers of totora reeds and home to the Uros people, who continue to live much as their ancestors did centuries ago. The cheerful inhabitants will invite us to get to know their traditional lifestyle and customs.

After lunch, we will explore the Chullpas of Sillustani, an ancient pre-Inca cemetery featuring distinctive circular, tower-shaped stone tombs. After exploring this necropolis, we will visit a cozy Quechua Farm to learn about its adobe and straw constructions, traditional medicine, samples of religious syncretism and its South American camelid herds.We will then return to our hotel in Puno for the night.

(B,L,D)

After breakfast, we will transfer to Copacabana to visit its famous cathedral which houses the Dark Virgin of the Lake. From Copacabana, we will board a hydrofoil to Moon Island, here we visit Sun Virgins Temple Iñak Uyu before continuing to Sun Island (Isla del Sol). On the island, we will explore Inca ruins, including the famous staircases, and taste water from the so-called Sacred Fountain, which local tradition associates with youth and well-being. Lunch will be sat a local restaurant.

We take the hydrofoil back to Copacabana and then transfer overland to La Paz with a short stop at Huatajata and experience the “Andean Roots Eco Village”. Next, we will visit the Altiplano Museum, where exhibits cover the cultural heritage of the Aymara and Inca peoples, colonial history, and Jacques Cousteau’s Lake Titicaca expedition. We will also meet members of the Limachi family, renowned for building Thor Heyerdahl’s RA II and Tigris rafts used in his transatlantic expeditions. Finally, we will transfer by coach to La Paz along a scenic route across the Altiplano, with views of the surrounding Andes, and check into our hotel for dinner and overnight stay.

(B,L,D)

After breakfast, we will visit the Tiwanaku ruins, the ceremonial and political center of the Tiwanaku culture, which thrived between 500 and 1000 AD. The site features impressive stone monuments, temples, and the famous Gateway of the Sun. In the afternoon, we will explore La Paz, discovering its indigenous neighborhoods, colonial-era churches, and modern districts, followed by a visit to the otherworldly landscapes of Valle de la Luna (Moon Valley).

(B)

Very early this morning, we will transfer to the airport for our flight to Buenos Aires. As there are no direct flights, we will make a stopover en route. Upon arrival, we will be transferred to our hotel, and the remainder of the day will be at leisure. We will enjoy dinner at the hotel this evening.

Buenos Aires is a shopper’s paradise, with high-quality leather goods among the city’s best bargains. The elegant Recoleta district, especially along Alvear and Quintana Avenues, features a mix of top local and international brands, while the lively pedestrian street of Florida is ideal for browsing jewelry shops, art galleries, fur boutiques, and more.

(D)

This morning, we will explore the southern side of Buenos Aires, a city renowned for its strong European influence, grand architecture, beautiful parks, and wide avenues. Highlights of our tour include Plaza de Mayo, the iconic Casa Rosada, and the colorful La Boca district. We will also see the impressive Congress building and the world-famous Teatro Colón. After returning to the hotel to relax, we will enjoy dinner at a local restaurant in the evening.

(B,L,D)

Today we will explore the northern side of Buenos Aires, beginning with a visit to the historic Recoleta Cemetery, the beautifully landscaped rose garden, and the Evita Museum, which celebrates the life and legacy of Argentina’s iconic First Lady. Lunch will be served at a local restaurant. This evening, we will experience the passion of Argentine Tango with a dance lesson at La Ventana, followed by dinner and a captivating Tango show.

(B,L,D)

We will take a domestic flight to Iguazú Falls and then transfer to the Brazilian side for a walking tour, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the falls. At the end of the day, we will transfer to our hotel for check-in and overnight stay. Dinner this evening will be at our hotel.

(B,D)

This morning we will depart our hotel and cross the Tancredo Neves Bridge into Argentina for a tour of the Argentine side of Iguazú Falls. We will explore the upper and lower trails of Iguaçu National Park, taking in close-up views of some of the 275 waterfalls cascading from the Iguaçu River and enjoying the rich wildlife and lush jungle that surround them. At the end of the trails, we will marvel at the awe-inspiring Devil’s Throat.

Be sure to bring a coat or purchase a disposable rain poncho for the included boat safari. On this adventure, we will board a twin-engine boat specially designed for the river’s conditions and navigate the Iguazu Canyon, riding several rapids to reach the base of the magnificent falls. Guided by an experienced pilot, we will maneuver directly into the heart of the waterfalls for a thrilling and unforgettable perspective.

We return to our hotel in time for dinner.

(B,D)

After breakfast we will check out of our hotel and enjoy a visit to the Bird Park (time permitting, pending flight schedule). Afterwards, we will transfer to the airport where we will board a flight to Rio de Janeiro and stay at close to Copacabana beach.

(B)

Today we enjoy a full-day tour of Rio de Janeiro, beginning with a scenic cruise of Guanabara Bay.

We enjoy lunch at a local seafood restaurant, and then we visit the iconic Sugarloaf Mountain, one of Rio’s most famous landmarks. The mountain is reached via a two-stage cable car system, with each car carrying up to 80 passengers on short, two-minute rides.

The first stage takes us to Morro da Urca, where we can enjoy panoramic views of Botafogo Bay, the yacht club, and surrounding neighborhoods, as well as amenities including a restaurant, amphitheater, and a heliport offering optional scenic flights. The second stage ascends to the summit of Sugarloaf, named for its resemblance to the traditional sugar loaves once common in colonial Brazil. From the 396-metre-high peak, we are treated to unrivaled, sweeping views of Rio, its beaches, and surrounding mountains.

(B,L)

This morning we will tour Corcovado Mountain to visit the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue, one of Rio’s most famous landmarks. Our drive takes us along Rio’s scenic beaches and the Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon before passing through the Rebouças Tunnel, which connects the city’s northern and southern zones divided by the Tijuca Ridge. Remarkably, Rio is the only city in the world with a national park just minutes from its downtown.

Arriving in the Cosme Velho district, we will board the cogwheel train that climbs through the lush rainforest of Tijuca National Park, ascending from 15 metres at the base to nearly 670 metres at the summit. From the upper station, a short elevator or stair climb brings us to the base of Christ the Redeemer, where we can admire sweeping views of the city, mountains, and coastline.

We return to our hotel and the afternoon is free for you to explore at your own pace. In the evening we’ll head to a traditional Brazilian steakhouse for our farewell dinner.

(B,D)

Our tour concludes after breakfast.

Contact Odyssey if you plan to extend your stay a day or two and would like suggestions of things to see and do in Rio.