1. ARRIVE SAN JOSE

Pura vida, bienvenidos a Costa Rica. You’re going to have more fun than a barrel of monkeys and spot more than a barrel of wildlife on this incredible adventure. A local host will greet you at the airport and arrange your transfer to the hotel. Relax by the pool before meeting your Travel Director and fellow explorers at 6 p.m. for a Kick-off Party.

Meal(s) Kick-Off Party

Hotel InterContinental Costa Rica

2. SAN JOSE – BRAULIO CARRILLO NATIONAL PARK – TORTUGUERO NATIONAL PARK (2 NIGHTS)

Rise with the roosters and head east through Braulio Carrillo National Park towards the Caribbean Sea. Board a river boat, gliding through canals, lagoons and lowland rainforest teeming with wildlife. You’ll be amazed at how many kinds of animals live here—six species of sea turtles, monkeys, caimans, tons of exotic bird species plus rare and endangered ocelots, river otters and manatees. The afternoon is yours—hang out by the pool or on the beach, or head to Tortuguero Village to meet the local students (when school is in session). Join a Local Specialist from the Sea Turtle Conservancy Foundation to learn about the incredible turtles that nest in Tortuguero. Enjoy a buffet dinner at the resort’s open-air restaurant along the Tortuguero lagoon.

Meal(s):Full Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

HotelLaguna Lodge Tortuguero

3. TORTUGUERO NATIONAL PARK SIGHTSEEING AND FREE TIME

There’s nothing like the wake-up call of a troop of howler monkeys to start your day. Set off with your captain and guide to explore the lush canals and waterways of Tortuguero National Park. You may want to start a tally of all the types of wildlife you’ll see. Look out for sloths, green iguanas, caiman, crocodiles and colourful toucans. Of course, you’ll spot tons of monkeys—agile howler and spider monkeys and white-faced capuchins swinging through the dense rainforest canopy. This afternoon, you can venture back out on the canals to add to your wildlife tally or relax back at the lodge—the choice is yours. If you’re visiting during nesting season (Jul-Sep), join an optional night walk with a naturalist guide to witness some of the world’s largest turtles laying their eggs, amazing. A buffet dinner is served at your hotel this evening.

Meal(s)Full Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

4. TORTUGUERO – SARAPIQUI – ARENAL NATIONAL PARK (2 NIGHTS)

Bid adios to the monkeys for now as you boat back to the mainland and travel to Horquetas. Here you’ll visit a local Tico family palm plantation to gain a Cultural Insight, all about and taste an exotic vegetable, something you’ve probably never tried—the delicate heart of palm. Continue travelling to quaint Sarapiqui where you’ll visit a wildlife centre for amphibians and reptiles run by a family of biologists rescue and rehabilitate animals that can no longer live in the wild.

Meal(s): Full Breakfast & Lunch

Hotel Arenal Paraiso Resort and Spa

5. ARENAL SIGHTSEEING AND FREE TIME

Rise and shine as the forest and volcano are calling. Start the day with a guided trek around the quiet side of the volcano at Arenal National Park. Walk through the old lava rocks and learn about the powerful forces behind the volcano’s past eruptions. Then head to the Arenal Hanging Bridges where you can walk eye-level within the lush canopy, observe the monkeys, sloths and chattering birds up close, and look out to see the rumbling, steaming Arenal Volcano. Later, relax in the thermal springs or take a swim at the pool back at the hotel. End the day with a delicious dinner with your travelling companions.

Meal(s): Full Breakfast & Dinner

6. ARENAL NATIONAL PARK – MANUEL ANTONIO NATIONAL PARK (2 NIGHTS)

Get ready to have a blast. Imagine yourself soaring high above the jungle floor as you fly along ziplines through the treetops, eye-to-eye with the lush foliage and exotic rainforest creatures. Ziplining through the canopy is sure to be among the most amazing adventures of your lifetime. Later, head south to Manuel Antonio National Park, renowned for its warm blue waters, sparkling white-sand beaches and abundant exotic wildlife. This evening, join the gang for a pizza night.

Meal(s)Full Breakfast & Dinner

Hotel Parador Resort and Spa

7. MANUEL ANTONIO NATIONAL PARK SIGHTSEEING AND FREE TIME

Walking deep into the National Park with your guide, you’ll definitely check off a few more creatures on your wildlife list—at last count, there were 109 different animals and 184 species of birds living here. Listen to the whooping bark of howler monkeys and the chattering of mischievous squirrels and white-faced monkeys. Then, it’s time to hit the beach. Laze in the warm Pacific or at the resort’s pool, or choose one of many incredible optional activities. Will it be a catamaran cruise (available Jan-Apr) to snorkel (and maybe even see dolphins, parrotfish and sea turtles), a surf lesson, mangrove kayak tour, horseback ride or whitewater rafting. This evening, join your fellow explorers to celebrate new friendships and awesome experiences with a Farewell Dinner at the hotel.

Meal(s): Full Breakfast, Farewell Dinner

8. MANUEL ANTONIO – DEPART SAN JOSE

Travel back to San Jose’s Juan Santamaria International Airport for your flight or extend your stay at the Parador Resort and Spa in Manuel Antonio.

Meal(s): Full Breakfast

Day  1

Depart North America on your flight to Peru.

Day  2

Lima

On arrival into Lima you will be met and transferred to your hotel.

As most flights arrive early morning today is free to relax.

NOTE: If arriving prior to the official start date of the itinerary the transfer is NOT INCLUDED. Please ask one of our specialists for transfer options.

Duration              2 Nights

Accommodation

El Tambo Peru

Day  3

Lima

A visit to the modern and colonial parts of the city of Lima the “City of Kings”, starting in the districts of Miraflores and San Isidro. The road passes a Huaca or sacred pre-Inca site. There will then be a stop at Parque del Amor (Lovers Park) in Miraflores for its magnificent view over the Pacific Ocean. The tour also includes the Historic Centre based on the Main Square, where the Presidential Palace, the Archbishop’s Palace, the Municipality of Lima and the Cathedral are located, as well as a visit to one of the largest colonial-era convents.

Meal Plan            Breakfast

Day  4

Lima to Cusco and Sacred Valley

After breakfast you are transferred to the airport for your flight to Cusco. Upon arrival you will be transferred to the Sacred Valley of the Incas which allows for acclimatization due its lower altitude compared to Cusco. The remainder of the day at leisure.

Meal Plan            Breakfast

Duration              1 Night

Accommodation

La Hacienda Del Valle

Day  5

Sacred Valley to Aguas Calientes

A full day excursion to the Chincheros and Ollantaytambo. With an early start, you drive through the fertile countryside of the Urubamba Valley to the colonial village of Chincheros. This traditional Andean town is known as ‘the birthplace of the rainbow’, and it has the full complement of photogenic attractions: Inca ruins, Andean village houses, an elaborate colonial church built on Inca foundations, and of course the lively weekly market. Please note: The main market day is Sunday. Other days the market is open but much smaller in scale.

Continuing down the valley and ever so slightly lower in altitude you head to the impressive archaeological complex of Ollantaytambo. Ollantaytambo is a massive citadel located 50 kilometers from Machu Picchu. The citadel served as both a temple and a fortress and the only battle at which the Incas held off the Spanish. You will then be transferred to the train station for train ride into Aguas Calientes near the ruins of Machu Picchu.

Meal Plan            Breakfast and Dinner

Duration              1 Night

Accommodation

El Mapi Hotel

Day 6

Machu Picchu and return to Cusco

Awaiting you today is by far and away one of the high points in world travel – Machu Picchu!

After breakfast you board a bus that takes you to the actual Machu Picchu archaeological site. You will definitely have an experience you will never forget. The tour includes every nook and cranny of this New Seven Wonders of the World and UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site. You then return to Aguas Calientes for lunch at a local restaurant and, later on, board the train for the return trip to Cusco; you will stop at the Ollantaytambo Station and be picked up and driven to your hotel.

Meal Plan            Breakfast and Lunch

Duration              2 Nights

Accommodation

Xima Cusco Hotel

Day  7

Cusco

Today enjoy a full day at leisure. You may like to do some additional sightseeing, shopping, or simply relax.

Meal Plan            Breakfast

Day 8

Onward Travel

You will be assisted with check-in for your flight back to Lima. On arrival into Lima you are assisted with you international connections home. Most flights will leave late on the night of day 8

Meal Plan            Breakfast

Day

9

Arrive home

Arrive home

DAY 1,  Depart for Peru
Depart for Lima, Peru; arrival and transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure with time to rest, relax and acquaint yourself with Peru’s vibrant capital, founded in 1535 by the conquistador Francisco Pizarro
Overnight: Lima

DAY 2, Lima City Tour
This morning’s tour of Lima, with its 2000 years of history, begins at the colonial center of the city, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its historic buildings surrounding the splendid Plaza Mayor. View the impressive Palace of the Archbishop with its fine carved balcony, the opulent Government Palace, official residence of the President, and the 16th century Cathedral of Lima whose first stone was laid by Pizarro. Continue to the 17th century Monasterio de San Francisco complex with its magnificent tiles, ornate carved ceilings, exceptional paintings and world-renowned library. Spend the remainder of the day at leisure or join the optional Pachacamac Pre-Inca Ruins tour. Visit the archaeological site of Pachacamac, one of the largest religious centres in pre-Inca times on the Peruvian coast. This afternoon, join your Tour Manager for an orientation meeting about the wonderful journey that awaits you. Tonight, perhaps attend the optional Evening Larco Herrera Museum with dinner. Experience one of Lima’s most magnificent museums by night on this tour, that also includes a light supper. Admire the world’s largest collection of pre-Columbian masterpieces and a stunning exhibition of gold and priceless jewels
Optional: Pachacamac Pre-Inca Ruins (PM)
Optional: Evening Larco Herrera Museum with dinner
Overnight: Lima
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 3, Fly to Cuzco, Afternoon at Leisure
Depart Lima this morning by flight to Cuzco in the Peruvian Andes. This ancient capital of the Inca Empire is the oldest continuously inhabited city in the western hemisphere, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel in this historic city and spend the rest of the day acclimating to the altitude. Or, attend the optional tour Half Day Cuzco Ruins which explores some of Cuzco’s most unique Inca Ruins
Optional: Half Day Cuzco Ruins (PM)
Overnight: Cuzco ▲
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 4, Tuesday – Discover Machu Picchu
Early morning transfer to the Sacred Valley’s Ollanta Station to board The 360° Train that travels through misty peaks to the astonishing ancient citadel of Machu Picchu, the “Lost City of the Incas”, designated by UNESCO as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Machu Picchu was virtually unknown to the western world until Hiram Bingham’s rediscovery in 1911. Spend the morning viewing the unforgettable wonders of this 15th century retreat, abandoned nearly 100 years later with the arrival of the conquistadors. See the highlights of the site including the imposing Temple of the Sun, the House of the Priest, the Sacred Plaza and the intricately carved rock likely used as a sundial by the ancient Incas. The images of this significant archaeological site will be a long-lasting memory. Return to the Sacred Valley in the early evening and transfer to your hotel in Cuzco for overnight
*Approximate time spent at the ruins of Machu Picchu is 2 hours
Overnight: Cuzco
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 5,  Cuzco City Tour
Enjoy this morning at leisure in the “Imperial City” of Cuzco. Take time to explore some of the city’s stunning sights or shop for some of the finest handicrafts and textiles in all of Peru. Perhaps, participate in the optional Cuzco Behind the Scenes Tour, offering a glimpse into the other side of life in Cuzco. On this tour, visit a local market and taste fresh-baked Chuta bread. Stop at the Cuzco cemetery to learn more about Andean life and death and meet with a local “shaman” (holy man). After the cooking demonstration, enjoy a delicious meal. In the afternoon, depart for a tour of Cuzco, view the impressive Colonial Cathedral, which contains over 400 paintings from the Cusqueña School in addition to colonial art. Continue on to visit the Koricancha, the Temple of the Sun, once the most important religious site of the Incas, whose walls and floors were allegedly once covered by sheets of solid gold. Tonight, join your fellow travelers for a buffet dinner, featuring delectable Andean specialties
Optional: Cuzco Behind the Scenes (AM)
Overnight: Cuzco
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

DAY 6, Raqchi & Puno
Depart Cuzco early in the morning on a long drive today. Enjoy spectacular scenery as you drive through the Andes mountain range and the Andean plains to Puno on the Peruvian side of Lake Titicaca. In this area, South American camelids (llamas and alpacas) graze on the immense plateaus and plains. En route visit the 15th century Temple of Wiracocha, with its elaborate stonework, the largest Inca temple ever discovered. Today, Raqchi remains home to many farmers, ranchers and artisans. Then, arrive at pristine Lake Titicaca sitting majestically at 12,500 feet above sea level, backed by the snowcapped peaks of Bolivia’s Cordillera Real range. This is the highest navigable lake in the world and South America’s largest fresh water lake. A box lunch will be provided en route
Overnight: Puno
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

DAY 7,  Excursion to Uros Islands on Lake Titicaca
This morning, an excursion by boat transports you from Puno to the fascinating Uros Floating Islands where the indigenous people of the area, the Uros, live on islands that dot the lake. The Uros live very much the same way as their ancestors did and still follow the ancient customs and traditions. These islands are completely man-made structures, using the totora reeds from the lake to build the islands and houses. Return to Puno for the remainder of the day at leisure. Or, take the optional tour to the Sillustani Tombs, the pre-Incan burial ground on the shores of Lake Umayo. The tombs here are built above the ground in tower-like structures called chullpas, vestiges of the Colla people before they were conquered by the Incas in the 15th century. Evening is at leisure in Puno
Optional: Half Day Sillustani Tombs (PM)
Overnight: Puno
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 8, Fly to Lima, Farewell Dinner
This morning transfer to the airport in Juliaca for your flight back to Lima. Spend the remainder of the day at leisure. Tonight, you bid farewell to your Tour Manager and fellow travelers at a special Farewell Dinner with Peruvian specialties
Overnight: Lima
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

DAY 9, Depart Peru
Transfer from the hotel to the airport for your departure flight*
*Some flights depart shortly after midnight in the very early morning of Day 9 and will require a transfer on Day 8. Transfers depart the hotel approximately 4 hours prior to flight time.
Meals: Breakfast

▲ Due to the high elevation, travel in the Peruvian highlands may cause some passengers to experience the temporary effects of altitude sickness. If you have any concerns about traveling to higher than your accustomed elevation, please consult your healthcare provider.

DAY 2, Friday – Galapagos Islands, Baltra, Santa Cruz
Embark this morning on a journey to the Galapagos Archipelago of volcanic islands, five million years in the making. Your flight from Guayaquil takes you to Baltra Airport; you’ll be met by your naturalist guides and transferred by boat to Santa Cruz Island. Here, you visit the Giant Tortoise Reserve and see their natural habitat – a once in a lifetime experience! Tortoises can be seen grazing on the vegetation, wallowing in muddy banks or in the small red ponds. The area is teeming with wildlife – woodpecker finches, mockingbirds, flycatchers, as well as ducks, herons, and gallinules. After a stop for lunch, on to Puerto Ayora, the most developed town in the Galapagos Islands, where you board the Finch Panga that takes you to Finch Bay, an eco-friendly resort-hotel in a private seaside location surrounded by mangroves, your home for the next three nights. The rest of the day is at leisure to enjoy the hotel’s pool, natural spa, white coral beach or admire the view from the comfort of your hammock. Tonight, savor dinner highlighted by local delicacies
*Please Note: Your Galapagos island itinerary is subject to change. Different islands and sites may be substituted
Overnight: Galapagos
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 3, Saturday – Excursion to Divine Bay, Charles Darwin Research Station
Today, head by boat to wildlife-rich Divine Bay, that lies a short distance away from Academy Bay and Puerto Ayora. Noddy terns, herons, marine iguanas, blue-footed boobies and Galapagos brown pelicans are commonly seen here. This morning’s visit includes snorkeling on a calm section of the cove and swimming in Playa Punta Estrada. Afterward, a dry landing and a short walk will lead you to the south shore of the island, to a small beach called Playa de los Perros (Dog Beach). This is a great place to see intertidal organisms and learn more about the rich sea life of the Galapagos. Return to the Finch Bay hotel for lunch, followed by an afternoon visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station and the Fausto Llerena Giant Tortoise Breeding Centre. Gain insight into the huge efforts being made by scientists, guides, rangers and park managers to preserve this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Dinner tonight is at the hotel
Overnight: Galapagos
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 4, Sunday – North Seymour Island
You’ll be transported on your yacht, The Sea Lion, to North Seymour Island, lifted from the ocean floor by a seismic event. Cliffs that are only a few feet high form the shoreline, where swallow-tailed gulls sit perched on ledges and a tiny forest of silver-grey Palo Santo trees stand just above the landing. This island is teeming with life! You might have to give right-of-way to a passing sea lion or a marine iguana. Along the way, perhaps you may see the famous Galapagos blue-footed booby nesting beside the trail or spot flocks of pelicans in a feeding frenzy. Keep on the lookout for the magnificent frigate bird, with its puffed- up scarlet throat sack, perched in low bushes watching over their chicks. After your enlightening walking excursion, you return to Finch Bay for leisure time. Enjoy dinner at the hotel
Overnight: Galapagos
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 5, Monday – Port of Baltra, Flight to Quito
Depart the Finch Bay Hotel. On your way to Baltra, stop at the Twin Pit Craters to view the great depressions of volcanic material formed by a long process of the sinking ground, and the exceptional view of Scalesia trees, ferns, mosses, and orchids. Then, proceed to the airport for the flight to Quito through Guayaquil. Arrive late afternoon in this historic city in the high Andes at the base of the Pichincha Volcano; transfer to the hotel. Evening is at leisure in Quito
Overnight: Quito
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 6, Tuesday – Quito City Tour & Visit to the Middle of the World
The morning’s tour begins with a visit to the colonial section of Quito to walk along the narrow cobblestone streets and feel the charm of 16th-century Quito. See the Independence Plaza, the Cathedral, Presidential Palace, and the Archbishop’s Palace before visiting La Compañia de Jesus Church, with its beautiful gilded interior or the Church and Monastery of San Francisco, one of the great religious buildings of the New World with its impressive facade and atrium. Afterward, visit the Middle of the World Monument, located at a latitude of 0º, and stand with one foot in the Northern and one in the Southern Hemisphere. Balance of the day is at leisure
Overnight: Quito
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 7, Wednesday – Depart Ecuador
Transfer to the airport for your departure flight
*Please Note: Some flights depart shortly after midnight in the very early morning of Day 7 and will require a transfer on Day 6. Transfers depart the hotel approximately 4 hours prior to flight time
Meals: Breakfast

Day 1: Overnight Flight

Day 2: Santiago, Chile – Tour Begins

Welcome to Santiago de Chile. Take in the views of this metropolitan hub tucked inside the Andes Mountains, and witness the vibrancy of one of South America’s most modern cities. Tonight, meet your fellow travelers over sumptuous food and wine in the stunning colonial neighborhood known as Barrio Lastarria.

Dinner; Stay at Atton Vitacura

Day 3: Santiago

This morning, embark on a city tour showcasing La Moneda Presidential Palace and the Paseo Ahumada pedestrian avenue. Ride the funicular up Cerro San Cristobal for sweeping views of Santiago and the Andes, and admire the Statue of the Immaculate Conception. Delve into Chile’s checkered past under the 20th-century dictatorship of General Augusto Pinochet at the Museum of Memory and Human Rights. Then, head over to a bustling central market to mingle with the locals. The evening is yours to explore this wonderful city on your own. Or you may choose to take the optional “Experience Santiago” tour to enjoy a tasting at a winery, followed by a visit to the famous poet and activist Pablo Neruda’s Santiago home; cap it off with an incredible Chilean dinner featuring local specialties and wine followed by a Chilean folk music show.

Breakfast; Stay at Atton Vitacura

Day 4: Santiago – Buenos Aires, Argentina

Fly to Buenos Aires, birthplace of the tango. Stretching along the banks of the Rio de la Plata, the “Paris of South America” is a mosaic of European-styled architecture and South American spirit. After being greeted by your local guide, head to the Feria de San Telmo, the famous Sunday market in one of Buenos Aires’ most historic neighborhoods. Meander through street after street of antiques; stop into little shops and view the local works of art, the handcrafted treasures, authentic leather products and more; or sit back with an empanada and yerba mate tea and take in the street performers and musicians. Then, enjoy a drink at your beautiful hotel in the heart of the chic Recoleta neighborhood. Tonight, head to the Esquina Carlos Gardel Tango House, named after Argentina’s most famous tango maestro, where you’ll savor Argentine cuisine and wine before a stunning tango performance.

Breakfast & Dinner; Stay at Brick Hotel Buenos Aires

Day 5: Buenos Aires

Start your day with a panoramic tour of lively Buenos Aires. Visit the Palermo district and Recoleta Cemetery, where Evita Peron rests. Drive along the famous Avenida 9 de Julio; view the Teatro Colon opera house; the Metropolitan Cathedral, the former church of Pope Francis I and the Presidential Palace, “La Casa Rosada,” at Plaza de Mayo. Then the choice is yours! Continue on the city tour by bus or for the more adventurous, embark on a bicycle tour with a local guide. Either way you’ll visit La Boca and the Puerto Madero neighborhoods. The rest of the day is yours to create your own adventure. Maybe you’ll stroll through San Martin Park or Calle de Florida, a shopper’s paradise; or possibly you’ll take the optional Tigre Delta trip where you’ll pass by an array of historic mansions and former residences of Buenos Aires’ aristocracy before boarding a cruise through canals meandering past a network of homes that sit on stilts.

Breakfast; Stay at Brick Hotel Buenos Aires

Day 6: Buenos Aires – San Antonio de Areco – Buenos Aires

This morning, cross the Argentine Pampas to experience the heart and culture of Argentina’s version of the “wild west.” Embark on a guided tour of the charming country village of San Antonio de Areco, the birthplace of gaucho traditions. Visit with some of the local artisans and silversmiths before heading to a typical estancia where you’ll dine on a hearty asado lunch – a traditional Argentine barbecue – and take your seat at a horse whispering show performed by authentic gauchos. You’ll get the chance to relax on the estancia grounds before heading back to Buenos Aires for a free evening.

Breakfast & Lunch; Stay Brick Hotel Buenos Aires

Day 7: Buenos Aires – Iguazu Falls, Brazil

Fly to Iguazu Falls – located at the crossroads of Brazil, Argentina and Paraguay – hailed as the most beautiful waterfalls in the world, and one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Board the Rainforest Ecological Train inside the national park on the Argentine side and walk to the platform overlooking powerful Devil’s Throat. Discover unparalleled views of five waterfalls as they plummet into the Iguazu River. Then cross into the Brazil side and check into your resort. Cap off your day with a relaxing dinner.

Breakfast & Dinner; Stay at Mabu Thermas Grand Resort

Day 8: Iguazu Falls

Soak up the breathtaking views of the waterfalls from the Brazilian side. Join your local guide as you discover how Brazil and Argentina have both fought to protect the beauty and raw power of the falls by making each side a national park. You will see first-hand why Eleanor Roosevelt, upon seeing Iguazu Falls, exclaimed “Poor Niagara.” This afternoon you may choose an optional jungle boat ride at the base of the falls, or just relax and enjoy the many amenities at your resort.

Breakfast; Stay at Mabu Thermas Grand Resort

Day 9: Iguazu Falls – Rio de Janeiro

Fly to Rio de Janeiro. Magnificent views, beautiful beaches, flamboyant Carnival costumes, great cuisine and friendly people make Rio the cultural capital of Brazil. Check into your beachfront hotel in the exclusive Leblon neighborhood. Venture to the top of Sugarloaf Mountain afternoon. Then, cap the night off at Rio Scenarium, a lavishly decorated restaurant and music venue in the historic Lapa district. Meet local Cariocas, the name for people from Rio de Janeiro, for dinner, music, and dancing that celebrates the rich history and vibrancy of the Brazilian people.

Breakfast & Dinner; Stay at Sheraton Rio

Day 10: Rio de Janeiro

Journey to Corcovado by train to see Christ the Redeemer, one of the largest Art Deco statues in the world. Take in the panoramic vistas of Tijuca Forest National Park. With 360-degree views around the city, you’ll soon realize why this statue is one of the new Seven Wonders of the World. Then spend time engaging with locals at the one of the city’s open-air markets. Break into small groups with local market guides as you discover and taste over a dozen different types of exotic fruits from Brazil. This afternoon, you choose your activity! Perhaps you’ll choose a behind-the-scenes look at Carnival and meet the artists who are designing the floats, costumes and dances during their year-round preparations for Rio’s biggest event. Or, maybe you’d prefer to join a local guide for a tour of a favela; learn about the unique contrasts and paradoxes of Brazilian society as you stroll through the community center, a school, and a local home; relish some time for coffee, cake and discussion with residents. The evening is free for your own exploration.

Breakfast; Stay at Sheraton Rio

Day 11: Rio de Janeiro

Your day is at leisure to explore fabulous Rio de Janeiro on your own. Relax by the beach at your resort or take a shuttle to Copacabana. Or, perhaps you’ll take an optional tour and board a jeep for a ride through the Tijuca forest followed by a visit to historic Santa Teresa. Or maybe an optional cooking class is more to your liking — you’ll immerse yourself in local flavors as you join a local chef in a cooking class where you’ll learn how to cook like a true Carioca! This afternoon, witness the city of Rio that captivated the world during the 2016 Summer Olympics. Stop by the Maracanã football stadium, which hosted the 2014 World Cup finals, before continuing on to the famous Carnival parade route, the Sambadrome. Afterward, behold the renowned Metropolitan Cathedral whose architecture was inspired by a Mayan pyramid. Tonight, join your fellow travelers for a farewell feast in a typical Brazilian churrascaria. Indulge in wine and meats slow-roasted to perfection. To toast a wonderful trip, learn how to craft caipirinhas – Brazil’s famous cocktail made with sugar cane liquor and lime.

Breakfast & Dinner; Stay at Sheraton Rio

Day 12: Rio de Janeiro – Tour Ends

Transfer to the airport for your flight home.

Day 1: Depart for Lima

Depart for Lima, Peru, your first stop on our Cradle of the Incas Holiday of a Lifetime Tour. After clearing customs at Lima International Airport, you will be met by a local representative who will assist you with your transfer to the hotel. There are no activities planned for today.

Stay 2 nights: JW Marriott Hotel Lima

Day 2: Lima

Lima, Peru’s national capital was one of the first to be established in South America by the Conquistadores. It is filled with many amazing colonial buildings and historic streetscapes. Today, after breakfast, you will visit the tourist district of Miraflores, and see the Pacific Ocean from the Love Park. The tour continues with the modern suburb of San Isidro and a visit to the pre-Inca pyramid of Huaca Huallamarca. Then, you will visit the Historical Center, Plaza Mayor (“Main Square”), the Government Palace, the Archbishop’s Palace, the City Hall and old streets with colonial mansions and Moorish balconies.

The visit also includes Santo Domingo Convent, a recently restored icon of colonial architecture. Completed in the late stages of the sixteenth century, its ancient crypt contains the relics of Peruvian saints such as Saint Rose of Lima and San Martin de Porres. Later on, you will tour the Archbishop’s Palace, a beautiful building with thirty rooms, in which 16th-19th century art works are on display. In the meantime, watch the changing of the guard at the Government Palace from one of the building’s wood-carved, Neo-classical balconies.

Finally, you will visit the home of a real Limean family in the exclusive district of San Isidro. They will share their collection of amazing art pieces, ranging from Pre Inca ceramics and textiles to the most complete collection of Nativity scenes in the Americas. This is a unique way to learn about traditional Limean lifestyles while spending some time with locals.

Dinner this evening will be at the Huaca Pucllana Restaurant.

Breakfast, Dinner

Day 3: Fly Lima to Cusco

Today we are transferred to the airport for our flight to Cusco. Get to know the Imperial city’s history through its Inca and colonial past.

Spend half a day walking about the city of Cusco, ancient capital of the Inca Empire and where we will see the interesting blend of the Inca and Spanish cultures. The outing begins at the Koricancha Temple, an old Inca palace and main center for the worship of the sun god, Inti. Once the Spanish conquered Peru, the Dominican order built a lovely church over top this temple’s foundations: the church of Santo Domingo, which is still there today. You will continue on foot to the neighborhood of San Blas, where the finest artisans in Cusco live and work. Next up, visit the Inka Museum, located in an old Colonial period house built by Spanish Admiral Francisco Alderete Maldonado. Around these parts, it’s popularly called the Admiral’s House. The exhibits show the side of Cuzco’s history intertwined with the Inca past.

Breakfast

Stay 2 nights: JW Marriott Hotel Cusco

Day 4: Cooking Lesson and Cusco Sundowner

The MAP’S (Pre-Colombian Art Museum) Restaurant, located in the patio of a colonial style home, will give an in-kitchen cooking demonstration, showcasing some of the best traditional Andes dishes. You will then enjoy a delicious lunch in a cozy and sophisticated setting.

Your day ends with a unique experience – a sundowner overlooking what was once the heart and capital of the might Inca Empire. With the mighty stones of Sacsayhuaman at your back and the sun setting over this UNESCO world heritage city, enjoy sparkling wine and some small snacks to reflect on your day and as you savor the view.

Breakfast and Lunch

Day 5: Cusco to the Sacred Valley

You start off early this morning for Ollantaytambo, an Inca mountaintop site that served as a military, religious, and agricultural center. From here, you will look out over the town of the same name and see its incredibly narrow streets and canal, features that have not changed since the Incas constructed them. You then travel to the town of Pisac. On the way you will visit Awanakancha, a store where you will find Peruvian Handicrafts and variety of fauna. A visit to the famous Pisac market will be a highlight of this day, as will a delicious lunch with horse exhibition at Wayra ranch restaurant.

Breakfast and Lunch

Stay: 1 Night Aranwa Hotel Spa Sacred Valley

Day 6: Machu Picchu

Today board the Vistadome Train for the ride through the Sacred Valley of Urubamba to the “Lost City of the Incas,” Machu Picchu. Perched 8, 200 feet above the valley, it was hidden by mountains and semi-tropical jungles for 400 years until discovered by Hiram Bingham of Yale University in 1911. Archaeologists believe that the Inca “Virgins of the Sun” took refuge from the Spanish Conquistadors here.

One of the world’s greatest wonders, Machu Picchu, your adventure starts in the city of Aguas Calientes, where you leave the train, walk through a maze of markets in the hear of town and then board a bus that drives you to the Machu Picchu site. This is an experience you will never forget. Your tour includes every nook and cranny of this UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site. Afterwards, there is some free time for you to explore the site on your own, to relax, or to meditate.

At the agreed upon hour, you will have lunch at Sanctuary Lodge.

Later on, you will return to Aguas Calientes and be assisted to your hotel. A complimentary massage is included with your hotel stay.

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Stay: 1 Night at Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel

Day 7: Machu Picchu to Cusco

After an early breakfast, return to the ruins and enjoy time at your leisure. Climb Wayna Pichhu – the famed peak that frames Machu Picchu (must be pre booked), walk to the Inca Bridge or to the famous Sun gate, or simply sit and soak in the magic that is Machu Picchu.

Mid-afternoon you return to Aguas Calientes for your train journey back to Cusco.

Breakfast; Stay 1 night: JW Marriott Hotel Cusco

Day 8: Cusco to Lima

Today you are transferred to the airport for your afternoon flight to Lima. Upon arrival, transfer to the Museo Larco for a once in a lifetime experience.

The Larco Museum is a treat at any time, where chronological galleries providing an excellent overview on 3000 years of Peruvian pre-Columbian history. At night however, it’s a peerless attraction, where the finest collection of Ancient Peru’s gold and silver comes to vivid life. You’ll also see the famous erotic archaeological collection, one of Peru’s most visited attractions. After the visit, enjoy the best of Peruvian gastronomy in the museum’s cozy, atmospheric restaurant.

Return to your hotel.

Breakfast, and Dinner

Stay 1 Night:  Marriott Hotel Lima

Day 9: Depart Lima

Today you will say your farewells to the group and be transferred to the airport for your international flight (Late checkout not included).

Breakfast