Duration: 16 Days
PLEASE NOTE: PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE THE COST OF FLIGHTS WITHIN THIS ITINERARY
When my baby smiles at me, I go to Rio…and Iguassu Falls, Buenos Aires, Lima, and Cusco! You’ll be smiling from ear to ear on this epic 16-day Independence by Globus tour of South America with plenty of much needed I-time in Brazil, Argentina, and Peru. And, while it takes two to Tango, it only takes you to choreograph the perfect day on an Independence by Globus holiday in South America. Rio sizzles with Brazilian barbecue, beaches, and bustling nightlife, bringing you a little closer to heaven atop Corcovado Mountain where the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue stands watch. With the freedom to design your days and fill your nights with Latin flair that ignites your independent spirit, you’ll be swaying to the samba in no time! And, do go chasing waterfalls in Iguassu National Park, where thunderous cascades plummet 300 feet into Devil’s Throat Canyon. Head to Buenos Aires, bursting at the seams with bold buildings, European energy, and bustling boulevards on this Independence by Globus South American tour. Walk down the world’s widest avenue where the Colon Theatre and Plaza de Mayo burst onto the scene. From the exciting enclave of La Boca to the old district of San Telmo, you can shop ‘til you drop and dine on the deliciousness of dozens of local cafes. Linger in the legendary Recoleta Cemetery where Argentina’s famous First Lady Evita Perón rests in peace, and then join the land of the living with a lively Tango show. Horse around with gauchos on an Argentinean estancia where ranch life is alive and kicking. Then, set your compass to the heart of Peru to ignite your independent spirit in Lima, Cusco, and magnificent Machu Picchu to find the “Lost City of the Incas.” Explore ancient ruins that defy explanation and encounter the captivating cultures that live on in the Sacred Valley and Cusco. Timeless temples, textiles, and tantalizing dishes are all on the menu on this free-spirited sojourn in South America.
Traveller Notes
- Transportation: As outlined in the day-by-day itinerary below and private airport transfers to/from intra-holiday flights; intra-holiday flights not included
- Guides: In Rio de Janeiro, Iguassu Falls, Buenos Aires, Lima, Cusco & Machu Picchu
- Maximum enjoyment of this holiday requires walking on cobblestone streets, uneven pathways, and climbing stairs. Elevations exceeding 10,000 feet can make even modest exertion a challenge. Maximum elevation on this tour is 12,000 ft.
- For your overnight stays in the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu you will only be allowed to bring an overnight bag weighing no more than 11 pounds due to luggage restrictions on the train. Your main luggage will be stored at the Cusco hotel where you will return for an additional overnight.
-Due to the Carnival holiday, departures with overnights falling in Rio de Janeiro from February 9 to 14, 2024 and February 28 and March 5, 2025 are on request only and will have a supplemental cost if available.
Please note: Itinerary is based on 2024, and is subject to change. Full details will be confirmed in 2024.
Welcome to South America's capital of glamour-Rio de Janeiro, where your hotel is available for mid-afternoon check-in
Today, your private tour takes you to the Cosme Velho district, where you board a cog-wheel train that will take you through the lush tropical vegetation of Tijuca Forest to the top of Corcovado Mountain. This rounded peak rising 2,300 feet from the bay is one of the New7Wonders of the World and home to the iconic statue of Christ the Redeemer. Enjoy a breathtaking 360-degree panorama, which affords sweeping views of the city and beaches below.
The afternoon and evening are at leisure.
Tonight, you may opt to join an outing to a fun churrascaria for a feast of barbecued meats that are marinated and roasted over charcoal in true Brazilian style. (B)
Enjoy a full day at leisure. Your Local Host will suggest some options for your free time. (B)
Today's I-Time Tips
This afternoon, you may elect to discover historic Petropolis, a mountain resort and site of the former summer palace of Emperor Dom Pedro II, or take an optional excursion to visit iconic Sugar Loaf Mountain.
Fly to Iguassu Falls. This masterpiece of nature encompasses 275 separate falls and spans almost two miles.
Upon arrival, you will be met by your Local Guide who will take you on a private tour dedicated to enjoying the spectacle of this 2-mile-wide torrent from the Brazilian side. See the mammoth series of waterfalls cascading over a precipice almost two miles wide and 250 feet deep. Walk into Devil's Throat Canyon, where the clouds of mist, thunderous roar, and 180-degree rainbows surround you-an unforgettable experience! (B)
Your Local Guide will take you on a private tour of the Argentine side of the Iguassu Falls. Begin with a short ride on the open-air Ecological Jungle Train through the rainforest.
From atop the falls, a series of boardwalks takes you above the falls to see the water crashing down more than 300 feet below into the Devil's Throat. (B)
Today's I-Time Tips
Your afternoon is free to explore, or you may opt to visit the Bird Park, home to many species of indigenous birds as well as flora from the area.
Fly to Buenos Aires, proud capital of the vast country that occupies most of the southern part of the continent.
After arriving at your central hotel, you will have time to become acquainted with the "Paris of South America" and its wide boulevards and outdoor cafés. (B)
After breakfast, your private tour takes you along the widest avenue in the world to see the Teatro Colón Opera House, the pride of Buenos Aires. You'll also visit the Avenida de Mayo and Plaza de Mayo, surrounded by La Casa Rosada (the President's Pink House), and the Cabildo, which was the first City Hall. Visit the Metropolitan Cathedral, which houses San Martin's Mausoleum. Continue to the oldest district in Buenos Aires, San Telmo, then stop by colourful La Boca and Palermo. Finish your city tour with a visit to Recoleta Cemetery, burial site of Eva Perón and a highlight of the city.
This evening, you may opt to enjoy dinner and a traditional Tango show-Argentina's famed passionate dance. (B)
Today's I-Time Tips
The Tango and Argentina go hand in hand. Tonight, perhaps opt to visit a local tango house, where professional tango dancers will delight you in Tango Show featuring the dance as it has evolved through the ages. Plus, dine on Argentine specialties and wine too!
Today is free to explore this extraordinary city. Consider an optional excursion to visit a traditional estancia (ranch) to experience the lifestyle of the gauchos, or cruise down the Tigre River surrounded by beautiful landscapes and impressive homes. (B)
Today's I-Time Tips
Estancias date back to the 16th Century during Spanish colonization when conquistadors where gifted land to raise and breed cattle. Today, these lands and traditions that go along with them have been passed down from generation to generation. Today, you have the chance to step into the traditional, local life of a gaucho and embrace Argentinean heritage during an optional trip to an estancia.
Transfer to the airport for your flight to Lima, where you will be met by your Local Guide. (B)
Your included city tour focuses on Lima's rich colonial history as well as the modern city. Lima was the bastion of Spanish South America from its founding in 1535 until the independence of the South American republics in the early 19th century. See the cathedral, where the remains of Francisco Pizarro are sealed in a wooden coffin, and the Santo Domingo Convent to see the relics of three famous Peruvian saints-Santa Rosa de Lima, San Martin de Porres, and San Juan Macias. (B)
Today's I-Time Tips
This evening, you may choose to head over to a nearby park to witness the largest electronic water fountain complex in the world, certified by the Guinness Book of Records. You will enjoy a wonderful show of water, lights, music, and images.
Fly to Cusco, high in the Andes, where you will be met by your Local Guide.
Your guided tour visits the cathedral in Plaza de Armas and Santo Domingo Monastery, one of the most important temples devoted to worship of the sun. It is said it was covered in gold leaf and filled with golden representations of nature.
Take a short drive outside the city to the ruins of Sacsayhuaman, a fortress of gigantic stones-with some blocks weighing more than 350 tons. Followed by the amphitheatre of Kenko, and the red fortress of Puca Pucara. (B)
Today, a short drive into the Urubamba Valley, the Sacred Valley of the Incas, brings you to Awanakancha to learn about the importance of the alpaca for Inca cultures, as well as the ancient weaving techniques still in use today.
Continue to the market town of Pisac, where you can buy handmade rugs, alpaca sweaters, and jewellery at bargain prices.
At the other end of the valley, visit Ollantaytambo to see some of the finest examples of Inca masonry. (B,L)
Embark on a train trip bound for Machu Picchu and cut a path through the Sacred Valley to this "Lost City of the Incas," discovered by American explorer Hiram Bingham in 1911.
On a guided tour of Machu Picchu, explore this intact fortress with its temple remains, holy houses, and mile-long aqueduct. For hikers, a brisk one-hour walk leads to the Sun Gate, the ancient entrance used by the Incas. (B,L,D)
A morning at leisure allows you to wake up early to see the sunrise over Machu Picchu with your second included entrance to the ruins.
Return to Cusco by train. (B)
Your holiday ends after breakfast this morning. (B)
