See two different sides of South America on this wonderful 16 Day tour to Peru and Brazil, capture the essence of the continent with this wonderful adventure. Starting in Lima, the capital of Peru travel to the heart of the ancient Inca culture, where cobblestoned streets and colonial charm set the stage to explore the Sacred Valley. See the legendary citadel of Machu Picchu before venturing into the Peruvian Amazon on a luxury cruise. Fly to Brazil where you can explore the spectacular Iguazu Falls one of the worlds breathtaking natural wonders. The tour will conclude in Rio de Janeiro where golden beaches and samba rhythms capture the spirit of Brazil. This fantastic itinerary combines ancient history with vibrant culture for an unforgettable adventure.
Itinerary
Day 1. Welcome to Lima!
Arrival day into Lima, tonight rest and relax at your hotel, before your departure flight to Cusco the following day.
- Accommodation
Hotel in Lima
- Meals:
None
Day 2. Lima to the Sacred Valley of the Incas
After a good night’s sleep and a delicious breakfast, fly from Lima to Cusco. On arrival into Cusco your guide will meet you at the airport and travel to the Sacred Valley.
The tour will start with a trip to historic Pisac ruins. The guide will show you around the Temple of the Sun, ancient baths, altars, fountains, and ceremonial platform. At the side of the citadel, you will see the terraces that are still used to grow crops. Enjoy the spectacular views of the surrounding Andes.
Enjoy a visit to the colorful market of Pisac to buy souvenirs and some great photo opportunities, before traveling through the valley to Urubamba where we enjoy a traditional lunch. An hour further into valley, we take you to visit the impressive fortress town of Ollantaytambo. Perched atop a mountain it acted as the religious, military, financial, and agricultural center of the Inca culture and we also visit the town of the same name which maintains its Incan charm, explore the cobblestoned streets and feel the presence of the Inca.
- Accommodation
Hotel in Urubamba
- Meals
Breakfast (Hotel), Lunch
Day 3. Maras, Moray and Chinchero
Today we explore the Maras salt mines. These were an important part of the Inca culture and still important to the local people today, recognizable by its pinkish hue the salt is amongst the most sought-after and expensive in the world. Later, travel to the picturesque archaeological site of Moray a huge expanse of circular terraces which the Incas used a botanical experimental laboratory.
Our next stop is Chinchero, here learn about the centuries-old traditional textiles. Have the chance here to buy traditional textiles and other souvenirs. Take in the 17th Century church built by the Spanish and the surrounding ruins, aqueducts, and agricultural terraces that were used by the local people hundreds of years ago.
- Accommodation
Hotel in Urubamba
- Meals
Breakfast (Hotel), Lunch
Day 4. The Citadel of Machu Picchu
Today is the day! We to the Citadel of Machu Picchu. Leaving the Sacred Valley by train, we enjoy a peaceful ride through the mountains to Aguas Calientes, situated at the foot of Machu Picchu. The views on the way to Machu Picchu are worth savoring. Built in the mid 1400’s it acted as a royal estate to two different Inca rulers, Pachacutec Inca Yupanqui and Tupac Inca Yupanqui. After 80 years of occupancy, it was abandoned and remained abandoned until the early last century when American professor Hiram Bingham brought its existence to world the world stage.
Machu Picchu is divided into two sectors, the urban and the agricultural. With your guide enjoy the most important temples and the key spots in the ancient citadel. The residential buildings feature exquisite stonework with no cement or mortar and are characterized by small trapezoid windows that face the morning sun. After our extensive tour, head back to Aguas Calientes where you can enjoy a delicious lunch before catching the train back to Ollantaytambo and then back to Cusco. Spend the night relaxing after a full day of adventure.
- Accommodation
Hotel in Cusco
- Meals:
Breakfast (Hotel), Lunch
Day 5. Ancient Inca Capital City
After a morning of rest, we pick you up at your hotel for your tour of Cusco and its most important archeological sites. Cusco, the Imperial City, is home to a mix of Inca structures and colonial influence. You start your tour at the iconic San Pedro market, a local market where you can explore the myriad colors, flavors, textures and traditions of modern Cusco.
The tour continues with a visit to Koricancha Temple, an ancient Inca palace and home to the Sun God, atop is the Santo Domingo and it still remains standing today, this temple/church really is a remarkable building and an amalgamation of the two different cultures.
Later ascend just outside of Cusco, to the Fortress of Sacsayhuaman, an impressive example of Inca architecture. Afterwards, you will explore Q’enqo archeological site, where important Inca ceremonies took place, next a tour of the ruins of Tambo Machay and Puka Pukara before returning Cusco. Afterwards, we will drop you off at your hotel
- Accommodation
Hotel in Cusco
- Meals
Breakfast (Hotel)
Day 6. Departing Cusco & Cruise Embarkation
Early in the morning, after breakfast, you will be picked up from your hotel and transferred to Cusco airport, ready to board your departure flight Lima and then onto Iquitos!
On arrival, enjoy a delicious welcome lunch and a briefing. Then you will be transported by a private vehicle to the dock to board El Zafiro, your home for the following three nights.
The staff will show you to your suite, equipped with comfortable beds, 100% Peruvian Pima cotton sheets, cotton bathrobes, air conditioning, and a private bathroom with a shower and amenities. Before setting sail, the bartender will serve you a cocktail prepared with local fruit and pisco, the most popular liquor in Peru. You can sip it while enjoying 360° views from the observation deck or a panoramic view from the indoor or outdoor lounge.
The naturalist guides will offer an overview of the travel itinerary, including activities, routes, information about wildlife and vegetation, geographical and historical context, as well as other useful info. If you have any doubts or concerns, the guides are always available to answer your questions.
Later, enjoy a welcome dinner, sample the selected wines and dine on Peruvian cuisine with an Amazon flare. Please let us know in advance if you have any special dietary needs. After dinner, enjoy the stunning views of the night sky while we start our journey to the depths of the Amazon rainforest.
- Accommodation
Room in Cruise Ship
- Meals
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 7. Ucayali River, Yanallpa of Ucayali, Tapiche River & Dorado River
Before breakfast, head out on a skiff to the Yanallpa area of the Ucayali River in the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve, to observe many native animal species. After a delicious breakfast, head out on a skiff to the Tapiche River in search of more interesting wildlife. Later head back to the boat to enjoy a cooking demonstration by the executive chef.
After lunch, whoever is interested may attend a talk about the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve, and later, we’ll take a skiff to the Dorado River to fish using local techniques. When the sun goes down enjoy an outing in search of caimans, tarantulas, and other species that may make an appearance. Dinner will be served onboard the Zafiro.
- Accommodation
Room in Cruise Ship
- Meals
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 8. Ucayali River, Yarapa of Ucayali, Amazon River, Tahuayo River & Huaysi Community Visit
After a wonderful breakfast, set out to explore the Yarapa River, where the famous pink and gray river dolphins swim in its black waters, an experience not to be missed. Back on the Zafiro, see the meeting of the Ucayali and Marañón rivers, which give rise to the Amazon River.
After lunch, take the skiff out on the Amazon River to visit the Huaysi community. See how the locals live. Learn more about their customs with your guides, who will act as interpreters. Take a dip in the Tahuayo River and, before enjoying a colorful Amazon sunset. Back on the Zafiro, you’ll have some time to relax and enjoy live music before a farewell dinner.
- Accommodation
Room in Cruise Ship
- Meals
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 9. Disembarkation and travel to Lima
After breakfast, travel to the airport, on the way, stop by the Amazon Rescue Center, where biologists and volunteers take care of rescued manatees. See how the manatees are cared for and prepped for reinsertion into their natural habitat.
Afterward, transfer to Iquitos airport for your departure flight back to Lima. Spend the night in the Miraflores district of Lima, maybe take a stroll along the Malecon and visit the Parque de Amor or try one of the many famous restaurants that the city is famous for. Relax in your hotel to prepare for the next part of this wonderful journey to Brazil.
- Accommodation
Hotel in Lima
- Meals
Breakfast (Cruise ship)
Day 10. Welcome to Argentina!
Today we will leave Peru and travel to Argentina, after breakfast transfer to the airport. Upon arrival in Puerto Iguazú, our representative will be waiting for you to take you to your hotel.
The rest of today will be free to spend exploring the town of Puerto Iguazú, enjoying some of the local shops and cafes.
- Accommodation
Hotel in Puerto Iguazú
- Meals
Breakfast (Hotel)
Day 11. Visit the Argentinean Falls
After breakfast begin your exclusive tour of the Argentinean side of Iguazu Falls. Head towards the Iguazu National Park where we will take a small train at the entrance of the National Park. The first stop will be the Devil’s Throat (Garganta del Diablo) which stands at over 262ft, making it the biggest waterfall at Iguazu! Your guide will take you along the wooden walkways of both the upper and lower circuit. The various trails that take you around the waterfalls are built a few feet above the jungle floor. These raised platforms not only protect the natural habitat of the wildlife but will also take you to viewpoints offering unimaginable views across the whole National Park.
If you’re looking for a bit of adventure while visiting Iguazu, we highly recommend booking the optional (not included) Great Adventure (Gran Aventura) boat tour that takes you right under the rainbows and mist of Iguazu’s waterfalls. Make sure to pack a change of clothes or swimwear and a watertight bag for your valuables because you will get wet! Exploring Iguazu will be one of your most unforgettable experiences.
After a full day exploring Argentina’s side of Iguazu Falls, head back to the visitors’ center and from there, your transfer will take you to your hotel in where the rest of your evening is free to spend at your leisure.
- Accommodation
Hotel in Foz do Iguazu
- Meals
Breakfast (Hotel), Lunch
Day 12. Iguazu Falls – Brazilian side
After breakfast, head out and discover the Natural Wonder of the World, Iguazu Falls. Today have a guided tour of the Brazilian side.
Situated inside the Iguazu National Park, the Iguazu Waterfalls attracts visitors from all over the world. This huge series of waterfalls plunge through a gorge onto the Iguazu River. They are more than 3 kilometers wide and 80 meters high! These beautiful falls create a never-ending spray of water and keep the sky decorated with rainbows. Take the 1.2-km trail, where you will be treated to an amazing panoramic view of the over the waterfalls and see the view of Garganta del Diablo (or Devil’s Throat), which is the most powerful and spectacular waterfall at over 80 meters tall.
After a wonderful day at the falls, you can relax in your hotel and enjoy the evening at your leisure.
- Accommodation
Hotel in Foz do Iguazu
- Meals
Breakfast (Hotel), Lunch
Day 13. Arrival in Rio de Janeiro
In the morning transfer to Foz do Iguaçu airport for your flight to Rio de Janeiro!
Landing in Rio, transfer to your hotel. Once you’ve settled into your accommodation, the rest of the day is free to explore. Stroll along the long boulevards next to the beaches of Ipanema, Leblon, and of course Copacabana.
Relax and perhaps watch the sunset at the beach before going for dinner at one of the restaurants along the promenade. We recommend trying one of Brazil’s most famous and traditional dishes, feijoada carioca (stew of beans with beef and pork served with white rice and farofa) washed down with a refreshing caipirinha cocktail or a local beer. Following dinner, you can go back to your hotel to relax or go to one of the local samba bars to dance the night away!
- Accommodation
Hotel in Rio de Janeiro
- Meals
Breakfast (Hotel)
Day 14. Rio De Janeiro
On this half-day tour see the Tijuca National Park, the world’s largest urban forest. Arriving at the top of Corcovado Mountain visit the statue of Christ the Redeemer and standing at the base of the 124 ft. tall statue, be treated to some truly amazing views over the city. Enjoy eye-catching views of the forest below and where Rio de Janeiro’s mountains dive into the clear blue water.
After visiting the statue and the Tijuca National Park, head back to your hotel passing by the golden beaches of Ipanema and Leblon.
- Accommodation
Hotel in Rio de Janeiro
- Meals
Breakfast (Hotel)
Day 15. Sugar Loaf & City Tour
Today take a tour of the old city center of Rio. Visit the impressive Cinelandia Square which was built in honor of the second president of Brazil, Floriano Peixoto, and features important buildings such as the Rio Opera House, the National Library, and the Fine Arts Museum. Visit Rio’s Chamber of Deputies, the former Imperial Palace, and the ornate Candelaria Church.
Having explored the city from the street level, head towards Sugarloaf Mountain, take the cable car to its summit. Ascending the famous natural landmark and be able to enjoy stunning 360-degree views across the sprawling city below, Guanabara Bay, Copacabana Beach, and up to Christ the Redeemer statue.
You will also learn how to make and taste the most famous and traditional Brazilian drink – a caipirinha!! The perfect end to the day.
- Accommodation
Hotel in Rio de Janeiro
- Meals
Breakfast (Hotel)
Day 16. Return Home
Enjoy your final breakfast at the hotel in Rio de Janeiro. Today the tour ends. If you have time spend a few extra days or travel to further destinations in South America. You will be transported to the airport, please advise your scheduled departure time.
Travel safely to your next destination as you leave with unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.
- Meals
Breakfast (Hotel)
What’s included?
Included:
- All Accommodation as mentioned in the itinerary
- 4-day, 3-night Cruise in Iquitos Peru
- All tours stated in the itinerary with English-speaking guides
- Ground transportation and entrance fees
- Breakfast at all hotels
- Meals as per itinerary
- Trains: Ollantaytambo – Machu Picchu – Cusco
- Entrances on all tours
- Airport Transfers
Not Included:
- Airfares
- Lunches or dinners (unless otherwise specified)
- Airport taxes
- Tips
- Travel insurance.
- Water
- Souvenirs
Costs for the Peru & Brazil Package – 16 Days
Price with 3* Hotels – 7 nights at hotels (1 night at 2 * hotels in Ollantaytambo)
- $7990 USD Per person
Price with 4* Hotels – 7 nights at hotels (1 night at 3* hotels in Ollantaytambo)
- $8530 USD Per person
We require a minimum of 2 travelers to run any trip.
Important Information
Booking
We need you to fill out a booking form which includes all needed for the trip. Our system will ask you for $??? USD deposit per person for booking (all payments are subject to a 5% transaction fee). If you are more than 2 hikers, you can pay separately. Once we receive your deposit, we go ahead with your permits and will send a formal confirmation to your email
Arrival
You will be picked up by one of our team members and be driven to your hotel. For this complimentary service ensure you send your international flight details at least two weeks in advance. You have to exit the airport or bus terminal; your driver cannot enter inside.
Acclimatization to the altitude:
High altitude starts to have an effect on our bodies from between 1,500m – 2,000m (4921ft – 6561ft) when our bodies start to react differently to make up for the changes in oxygen levels. As you get higher, the air gets thinner, so with every breath there is less oxygen for your body. Your body gradually adapts to getting less oxygen – you breathe faster and deeper and the body produces more red blood cells. This takes time so this is why if you go from low to high altitude too quickly, you may feel symptoms of altitude sickness until your body acclimatizes.
The Cusco region is generally set at very high elevations. The city of Cusco stands at a staggering 3 399m/ 11 152ft. However, people react differently to altitude sickness and it can present itself in a variety of symptoms. Common symptoms include: headache, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, poor appetite, dizziness and disturbed sleep and in extreme cases, loss of oxygen.
There are number of ways to deal with altitude sickness. Firstly, you need to acclimate, by spending a few days in the Sacred Valley or Cusco. The body does adjust to the thin air; it just needs time. There are a number of day tours you can participate in before your trip, that don’t require much exertion. Secondly, get lots of sleep, relax and take it easy. Another option is to watch what you consume, try to avoid alcohol and drugs and also drink lots of water and coca tea. Keep your meals light, high in calories with lots of carbs. Lastly, we recommend visiting your doctor before traveling to Peru and ask for recommendations for medication that can help with altitude sickness.
These are the recommended remedies for altitude sickness is WATER, COCA TEA and OXYGEN, IF NEEDED.
Luggage.
We offer a free secure luggage store while touring with us.
How do I pay my remaining balance?
You can pay the rest of your bill upon arrival with a card or cash if you want to avoid any extra high credit card fees. Our representative will show you the invoice confirmed at the booking time. Otherwise, you can pay through PayPal or Visa but you have to pay 5% service fee charged by VISA and PayPal.
Getting Ready to Go
Passports and Visas
It is each traveler’s responsibility to have a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the dates of travel and a visa if required.
Passengers must check with the respective consulate or a visa agency to determine what personal identification is required. If you are reentering the same country on their itinerary should check if they require a double-entry visa. Passengers requiring visas, should ensure that their passport has blank pages. For the Brazilian section of the tour, please ensure that you check with your consulate before traveling. On booking, please supply a copy of your passport to the staff at Wayna Trekkers.
About Your Luggage on the Train to Machu Picchu
Due to very limited storage space, only one small backpack / daypack / handbag per passenger is permitted onboard trains to Machu Picchu. This applies for overnight stays as well. Additional luggage will be transported to and held at your next hotel for no additional charge. Passengers who wish to bring extra luggage on the train will be charged an additional fee payable directly to the train operator; this extra luggage might follow in a separate train car.
Trip Preparation
Preparing for your trip will make all the difference. Several weeks before your trip, make a list of what you will need to take with you. Make sure your personal documents (passports, visas, driver’s license) are in order. Bring a change of clothes in your carry-on bag in the event that your luggage is delayed or lost. If possible, consider carry-ons instead of checked bags. If you need to take a larger bag, choose a bag color and identification that stands out.
We suggest that you make photocopies of passports, visas, personal ID and any other important travel documents and pack them separately from the originals. You may also make a digital copy of your passport to keep a clear picture with the important details in your cell phone or digital camera photos. If you lose the originals while traveling, you’ll have copies for easier reporting and replacement. Due to security reasons, many museums have restrictions on the size of bags that can be taken inside and backpacks, carry-on bags or large purses may not be permitted. It is recommended to bring a small shoulder bag or purse to use in these situations instead. Avoid placing valuables such as cameras in your checked luggage.
Medications
See your doctor and be sure that you have enough prescription medications to last through the trip and a little extra, and carry them with you in case your luggage is delayed. Pack a list of medications including dosage and generic names. You may consider bringing a small supply of over-the-counter medications for headaches and/or anti-diarrhea pills. We recommend that you pack a portable alarm clock. Airplane pressure can cause similar pressure in your body, most notably in ears, as well as liquid tubes and bottles. Your physician can suggest medication for decongestion. We suggest that you place liquid containers into Ziploc bags to catch any leaks.
Travel Safety Advice
The safety of our guests is Wayna Trekkers #1 concern. Before making the decision to reserve your vacation, we want you to be aware of potential situations which may impact your holiday. While most of the time our programs run precisely according to plans, on rare occasion force majeure events including weather, transportation mechanical issues, or uninhabitable accommodation, civil unrest and even criminal or terrorist activities will present themselves unexpectedly and with little or no notice. Wayna Trekkers will make the decision to cancel a tour only after receiving verifiable government issued information. We are otherwise obliged to comply with contractual airline and vendor agreements and carry out the tour until or unless we are advised otherwise.
It is important to remember and consider your fellow Tour Participants
- For the benefit of all tour participants, we ask tour members to be considerate of their fellow travelers in the following ways:
- Refrain from wearing colognes, perfumes and/or personal products containing excessive fragrance in respect for other guests who may be allergic
- Avoid smoking cigarettes around other tour members, including in outdoor areas where smoking may be permitted.
- Avoid attire with political or religious messages that may offend the local people and other travelers.
- Respect your fellow passengers and their religious and political beliefs.
- Please do not talk or have phone conversations while tours are taking place.
- Make use of the available hand sanitizer on the coach to support a healthy environment.
- Always ask before taking photographs of other tour participants
- Respect tour departures times as advised by your tour leaders.
Climate & Clothing for your tour.
Peru
Peru’s climate varies greatly by the region. Along the coast and in Lima expect mild winters and cloudy skies and in summer the temperatures will be warm and dry. In the Andes places like Cusco and Machu Picchu are cool all year round. There are two seasons the wet and the dry season, with the wet considered summer and the dry winter. In the Amazon regions expect hot, humid and rainy most of the year. Lightweight, breathable clothing is best for the jungle, on your cruise, smart comfortable clothing is recommended. Layers for the mountains with a warm jacket and for the summer on the coast cool casual clothing is best.
Brazil
The weather will be warm and humid; it is best to take comfortable and practical clothing. Lightweight, breathable clothing, quick dry shorts, t-shirts and long sleeve shirts and pants are great for sun protection and cooler evenings and help with bug protections. Bring swimsuits for the beaches. Comfortable walking shoes are a must as well as shoes for the water.
Don’t forget a hat and sunscreen and it is recommended a set of more elegant clothing for nighttime in the restaurant.
Remember that South America is in the Southern Hemisphere so the seasons are the reverse of the Northern Hemisphere.
Money in South America
In all South American countries, the use of both cash and credit cards are widely used, but it is recommended to carry a mix of both. Each country has its own local currency and while credit and debit cards are accepted at most hotels, restaurants and larger stores, smaller shops, markets, taxis and in rural areas operate on a cash only basis. ATMs are plentiful in cities and usually give both local currency and US Dollars. It most areas it is wise to carry small notes as it is sometimes difficult to change larger notes. Check with your bank about transaction fees when using your cards in South America and remember to advise your bank before traveling as your card maybe blocked if using in foreign banks.
Food in South America
The food is one of the highlights of any tour in South America, the diversity and is a reflection of the indigenous traditions, colonial influences and regional ingredients. Discover the fresh ceviche of Peru. Staples across the continent include corn, potatoes, beans and rice and are often paired with seafood and meats. The street food culture is strong with empanadas, tamales and churros often found. Generally, the food is bold, flavorful and connected to local traditions, making food an important part of any journey to South America.
Restaurants
Restaurants in South America are as varied as the continent, offering everything from fine dining experiences to casual family run establishments. In the major cities the restaurant scene is vibrant with famous chefs blending traditional and modern flavors. Experience small neighborhood restaurants that serve authentic local dishes. Restaurants across South America provide a delicious gateway into the continents rich and diverse culture. Ask your tour leaders for advice about the best restaurants on your tour.
Book & Film Recommendations
Many of our guests enjoy reading about their destination – either in advance of their trip or while traveling – as a way of adding context to their visit. Whether reading a traditional guide book, learning about the history and culture, or simply enjoying a fictional novel set in the destination, a good book can add greatly to your experience.
PERU: Books
- Lost City of the Incas by Hiram Bingham (1948)
- Machu Picchu Sacred Center by Johan Reinhard (2007)
- Turn Right at Machu Picchu by Mark Adams (2011)
- The Peru Readers by Orin Starn, Carlos Ivan DeGregory, and Robin Kirk (2005)
- The Art of Peruvian Cuisine by Tony Custer (2003)
- Eight Feet in the Andes: Travels with a Mule in Unknown Peru by Dervla Murphy (2003)
- The Conquest of the Incas by John Hemming (1970, reprint 2003)
- The Secret of the Incas by William Sullivan (1997)
PERU: Films
- The Secret of the Incas (1957)
- The Motorcycle Diaries (2004)
- The Royal Hunt of the Sun (1969)
BRAZIL: Books
- Brief History of Foz do Iguazu by Micael Alvino da Silva
- Foz do Iguazu in the Context of History by Perci Lima
- City of God by Paulo Lins
- Carnaval no Fogo by Ruy Castro
- A History of Rio de Janeiro by Armelle Enders
Peru & Brazil Vacation Package – 16 Day Itinerary including Machu Picchu & Rio de Janeiro
