Best South America 20-Day Tour Package: Brazil, Argentina & Peru

  • Duration 20 Días / 19 Noches
  • Difficulty Moderate
  • Type Service Historical / Adventure
Group size 2 up to 8 people
From $ 5990 USD Per person

South America has many sides, from magnificent waterfalls and gauchos…excellent wine, huge steaks & the tango – rainforests and beaches to the ancient heritage, lush valleys fresh mountain air and splendid colonial architecture. Experience all this and more on this once-in-a-lifetime 20 days journey.

Itinerary

Itinerary

Day 1. Arrival Day – Rio De Janeiro

Today is arrival day, our team will pick you up from the airport in Rio de Janeiro and transfer you to the hotel, get some rest and prepare for the days ahead.

  • Accommodation in Rio de Janeiro: 3* or 4* Hotel
  • Meals: None

Day 2. Rio De Janeiro

City Tour of Rio de Janeiro, 5 to 6 hours visiting the highlights of this beautiful city. Spend an unforgettable day in the vibrant city of Rio, beginning with a visit to the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue, perched atop Corcovado Mountain with sweeping views over the city, beaches and the lush rainforest. Later we visit the Metropolitan Cathedral and Arcos da Lapa, with the beautiful Selarón Steps. You will also have chance to take shots of the Sambadrome and the famous Maracana Stadium. In the early afternoon have free time to explore at your own pace with a ride up to Sugarloaf Mountain for breathtaking views and later relax on the golden sands of Praia Vermelha beach.

  • Accommodation in Rio de Janeiro: 3* or 4* Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast (Hotel)

Optional tours:

  • Half Day Carnival & Samba Experience
  • Half Day Sugar Loaf Mountain

Day 3. Roaming in Rio – Foz de Iguazu

This morning you are free to explore Rio, a fascinating and diverse city best known for its contrasting images of favelas (shanty towns) and the glitz and glamour of Carnaval. With free time, you can choose from optional activities. For further options, chat to your leader.  In the afternoon travel by plane to Foz de Iguazu, settle into your hotel and then set out on a walk with your leader.                                               

  • Accommodation in Iguazu: 3* or 4* Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast (Hotel)

Day 4. Foz de Iguazu – Brazilian Side

A day on the Brazilian side of Iguazu Falls offers an awe-inspiring experience of nature’s power and beauty. Begin your visit at the Parque Nacional do Iguazu, where a well-maintained trail leads you through lush rainforest with glimpses of wildlife and the distance roar of the falls grows louder. The views offer sweeping perspective of the cascades including the Devil’s Throat. Feel the mist of falls on your face and maybe take an optional helicopter ride over the falls, making for an unforgettable highlight of your trip in Brazil.

  • Accommodation in Iguazu: 3* or 4* Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast at the hotel

Optional tours:

  • Helicopter Tour in Iguazu Falls
  • Parque das Aves

Day 5. Foz de Iguazu – Argentinian Side

Today we spend the day on the Argentine side of Iguazu Falls, this side offers an immersive and close up experience at one of the most breathtaking natural wonders. Located in the National Park experience lush rainforests, walking trails and boardwalks. See the cascades that thunder down with a force that can be viewed from the platforms above. An optional boat trip to the base will add to your adventure. See the abundant wildlife that will add charm to today’s adventure.

  • Accommodation in Iguazu: 3* or 4* Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast at the hotel

Optional tours:

  • Boat ride under the falls

Day 6. Foz de Iguazu to Ituziango

This morning after breakfast travel to the Brazilian-Argentina border by local confortable bus. Travel for around 7 hours to the town of Ituziango, on the way see the Guarani community and the regions indigenous people. This is an overland journey through passing through varied landscapes from subtropical forests to more populated Pampas region. Transfer to your hotel for a well-deserved rest.

  • Accommodation in Ituzaingo: 3* or 4* Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast at the hotel

Day 7. Ituzaingo and Ibera Wetlands – Asado Experience

The town of Ituziango is along the banks of the Parana River and is the gateway to the Ibera Wetlands. Today after breakfast we will head to our rancho and we take a full day (approximately 8-10 hour), horse back riding, car ride, and a walking tour with our guide. You might see any number of obscure species – maybe caiman or swamp deer, perhaps even an armadillo, or a flock of rhea (which are like a South American equivalent of an emu). Anacondas, though particularly hard to spot at certain times of the year, are also known to inhabit these wetlands. For lunch enjoy a delicious barbecue (asado) with our expertise local asadores, and even have mate like a true Argentine. With a charming colonial atmosphere, friendly locals, Ituziango offers a taste of Argentina’s quieter side. Transfer to your hotel for a good night’s rest.

  • Accommodation in Ituzaingo: Local Lodge or 3* Hotel.
  • Meals: Breakfast at the hotel, lunch, Dinner

Day 8. Ituzaingo Portal San Antonio – Boad Ride

Today we explore more of the wetlands. We visit Portal San Antonio and have a great boat tour with a Picnic lunch in a tranquil environment. Spanning more than 15,000 square kilometers, the Ibera wetlands are roughly the size of Belgium, which gives you an idea of how much there is to explore. The biodiversity is incredible, and the swamps, lakes and lagoons are home to such creatures as otters, alligators, deer, and wolves. Keep a look out too for those oddly noble-looking creatures, the capybaras, these cousins of guinea pigs are the largest rodents in the world.

We will navigate the channels, streams and marshes of the San Antonio Portal, sorrounded by floating islands and aquatic vegetation. Cameras ready as we will be able to see more species of birds, connect with the beautifulnature that this land has to offer.

In the afternoon we drive for 1 1/2 hours back to our hotel in Ituzaingó.

  • Accommodation in Ituzaingo: Local Lodge or 3* Hotel.
  • Meals: Breakfast at the hotel, Picnic lunch.

Day 9. Ituzaingo to Buenos Aires

This morning, after breakfast, we pick you up fromyour hotel and drive towards the airport for your flight to Buenos Aires and transfer to your hotel.

  • Accommodation in Buenos Aires: 3* or 4* Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast at the hotel, Breakfast

Day 10. Buenos Aires

A full day tour of Buenos Aires offers a look into the city’s heart. The day begins with a guided visit to the vibrant district of La Boca, a short walking in this unique cobblestone and bohemian atmosphere of San Telmo. From there the tour continues to the iconic Obelisk on Avenida 9 de Julio. The journey leads us to the Plaza de Mayo, the cities oldest square where you will see the Casa Rosada, the Metropolitan Cathedral among others, brive past the magnificent Teatro Colon, one of the worlds finest opera houses and the Recoleta Cemetery, burial site of Eva Perón. The tour is the perfect introduction to architecture and passion of the Argentinian capital. In the evening we will experience a dinner and a Tango show. Settle into your hotel for the night.

  • Accommodation in Buenos Aires: 3* or 4* Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast at the hotel

Day 11. Buenos Aires to Lima

Buenos Aires is the ultimate cosmopolitan city, with Latin passion, European elegance and its own distinctive style. This morning you may want to visit more of the city, maybe la Recoleta (the grand cemetery). Later leaving Argentina we fly to the Peruvian Capital of Lima. Transfer to the hotel for a well-earned rest.

  • Accommodation in Lima: 3* or 4* Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast at the hotel

Day 12. Lima – The City of the Kings

This morning after breakfast, experience a morning city tour of Lima, pick up will be at 10:00 am from your hotel. Today we visit old and modern Lima on a 5–6-hour tour. Places we visit include, the seaside town of Miraflores, the ruins at Huaca Pucllana, the Bohemian Barranco, the Historic Center including the Convent of San Francisco de Asis, Casa Aliaga, and the Cathedral. Lima is a wonderful city that is known as the food capital of South America. Later we drop you back at your hotel and have the rest of the day at your leisure or take advantage of the wonderful range of restaurants all guaranteed to delight the palate.

  • Accommodation in Lima: 3* or 4* Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast at the hotel

Day 13. Depart Lima – Puno

After breakfast, we will drive you to the airport for your flight to Puno – Juliaca. Upon arrival in Juliaca, you will be welcomed and taken to your hotel in Puno. (We drive to Juliaca for around 1 1/2 hours)

  • Accommodation in Puno: 3* or 4* Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast at the hotel

Day 14. Puno – Titikaka Lake

This morning, you’ll take a tour of the immense lake by motorboat, stopping at the floating Uros Islands. Built by the Uros people to protect themselves from encroaching Inca forces hundreds of years ago, the islands are constructed from many layers of totora reeds that grow in the shallows of the lake. After a visit with the Uros people, travel further out on the lake to the Island of Amantani. Get a closer look at the life on the lake with a homestay in a local community. Help your host family with their daily activities, try out a few words in the Quechua language. Tour the island and hear the history. Tonight, sit down and swap stories with your hosts, who will cook you a feast full of traditional Peruvian favorites.  

  • Accommodation: Local Homestay
  • Meals: Breakfast at the hotel, Lunch & Dinner

Special information

Your homestay tonight is a traditional local house. Rooms have beds and many blankets, and there are shared drop toilets, but no showers. 

Day 15. Puno – Titikaka Lake

This morning after breakfast, we embark on a bot for our journey to Taquile islands which is our final destination to visit before going back to Puno. During our visit we will taste a well deserved local dish at a co-operative restaurant, which supports the community. In the afternoon, by 4-5 pm we will finally arrive in Puno. We spend the night at our hotel.

  • Accommodation in Puno: 3* or 4* Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast at the hotel, Lunch

Day 16. Puno to Cusco – Route of the Sun

Make the journey just as exciting as the destination with a private service from Puno to Cusco, we will stop at the highlights of the Route Of The Sun, The border of Puno and Cusco “La raya”, The famous for Raqchi’s Wiracocha temple, the 16th-century church in Andahuaylillas. Rather than spending hours on a coach, you’ll disembark regularly and enjoy the beautiful scenary of the Peruvian Andes.

  • Accommodation in Cusco: 3* or 4* Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast at the hotel, Lunch

Day 17. Cusco – The Ancient Capital of the Incas

This morning after breakfast get acquainted with this charming city and its intriguing blend of cultures on a leader-led walking tour. Check out some of Cusco’s main attractions, as well as its lesser-known sights, such as the Qoricancha temple, San Pedro market, the main square, the 12 Angled Stone, Regocijo Square and San Blas Square. In the afternoon we travel just outside of Cusco to the ruins that overlook the city. See Sacsayhuaman an impressive Inca fortress as well as Tambo Machay, Qenko and Puka Pukara Inca sites. Tonight is free to explore at your own pace or find the perfect dinner spot with your group and try some local Peruvian favorites, or dance the night away in one of the many discos that the city is famous for. Get a good night’s rest in your hotel to prepare for the next day’s adventures.

  • Accommodation in Cusco: 3* or 4* Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast at the hotel

Day 18. Cusco – Sacred Valley – Aguas Calientes

Leaving Cusco early, travel to the wonderful Sacred Valley of the Incas. The first stop will be at the impressive Inca site of Pisac, enjoy an informative tour of the ruin and enjoy the spectacular views of the Andes from the site. Later travel down to the town of Pisac where you can shop at the most famous art market in Peru. Buy your souvenirs before traveling further into valley to the town of Urubamba where you will enjoy a delicious lunch in one of the many restaurants. After your have enjoyed a delicious lunch travel to the town of Ollantaytambo a living Inca town with wonderful cobblestone streets, markets and the Inca fortress of Ollantaytambo. Your guide will give you a tour of the site an explain the history. The site has some of the best views in Peru and is perfect for photographers. Later take the train through the valley following the Urubamba River to the town of Aguas Calientes in the cloud forest at the foot of Machu Picchu. Here you will spend the night surrounded by the Andes.

  • Accommodation in Aguas Calientes: 3* or 4* Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast at the hotel, Lunch
  • Train to Aguas Calientes in the afternoon

Day 19. Machu Picchu “The Lost City of the Incas” – Cusco

This morning, you’ll take an early bus up the winding road to Machu Picchu. Welcome to one of the famed Seven Wonders of the World!  Machu Picchu is thought to have been built around 1440 as a country retreat for the Incan nobility another theory is that it was an ancient astronomical observatory. Enjoy a guided visit of the incredible site, giving you ample time to take in the many temples, palaces and living quarters. See the Royal Residences, The Inca Plaza, the famous Inca stone, the views of the Andes that surround the site. Experience the spirit of the Inca and hear the stories of Inca legends. After taking advantage of the seemingly endless photo opportunities, take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes where you can enjoy a delicious lunch and explore the town before taking the train back to Ollantaytambo where we will pick you up and travel back to Cusco and your hotel. Spend the night at your hotel reflecting on your adventures.

  • Accommodation in Cusco: 3* or 4* Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast at the hotel.
  • Machu Picchu – Entrance and guided tour

Day 20. Cusco at your leisure – End

Free Day in Cusco to enjoy the city and the sights. Explore the markets and the museums, visit the different barrios, experience the wonderful restaurants, take in the spirit of the capital of the Inca Empire or just relax at your hotel after a wonderful adventure through South America. If you are up for an adventure, take an optional full day tour to the mysterious Rainbow Mountain, please advise at booking time if you wish to do the Rainbow Mountain tour. This is a full day traveling through the Andes. Hike up to the summit of the mountain and enjoy the colorful mountain and the surrounding views. For an extra adventure hike to the Red Valley. Arrive back into Cusco in the afternoon. Finally, we transfer you to the Airport for your flight to your next destination.

  • Meals: (Hotel)

Optionals for your adventure in Cusco:
Rainbow Mountain, Cooking Classes or Chocolate Classes.

What does your 20-day tour of Brazil, Argentina, and Peru include?

INCLUDED

  • 19 nights accommodations
  • 2 nights Rio de Janeiro
  • 3 nights Iguazu, Argentina
  • 2 nights in Ituzaingo
  • 2 nights Buenos Aires
  • 2 nights Lima
  • 4 nights Cuzco
  • 1 night in Aguas Calientes
  • 3 nights Puno
  • Hotel taxes, fees & service charges
  • All transfers included
  • All transportation, train, coach, boat per itinerary.
  • Meals as stated on the itinerary
  • Services of an English-speaking tour leader throughout the whole experience out of Peru.
  • Services of English-speaking local guides.
  • Entrance fees per itinerary

Special Features

  • We ascend to the top of Corcovado Mountain for the spectacular views of Rio
  • Witness the beauty and feel the power of the majestic Iguassu Falls.
  • Discover the Ibera wetlands and its magic biodiversity.
  • Asado Experience in a local ranch.
  • Explore and admire the elegant Paris of South America, “Buenos Aires”
  • Tango Show with professional Argentine tango dancers
  • Tour of Colonial Lima the city of the kings, a UNESCO World Heritage Site,
  • Unveil the ancient greatest civilization in South America
  • Discover the Crystal Condor “Machu Picchu” via the PeruRail Vistadome Train
  • Drive throught the Andes of Peru to the world largest navigable lake.
  • Uros Floating Islands and the love of its people.
  • Transfers available from to all airports mentioned in the itinerary.

Not Included:

  • Travel insurance.
  • Water
  • Domestic Airfares
  • International Airfares
  • Tips
  • Souvenirs

EXTRAS

  • Extra night at 4* $220 USD
  • Extra night at 3* $130 USD
  • Huayna Picchu Mountain – $70 USD (Book in advance)
  • Machu Picchu Mountain – $70 USD (Book in advance)

20-Day South America Tour Prices

Prices

Accommodations Double Single
3 Star $ 5990 $ 7150
4 Star $ 6890 $ 7900

Room details

Twin share room.
All prices are quoted on a double occupancy, you will share a rooom with a traveller of the same gender as per passports or someone you travel with.

For couples, just request a double room (2 beds) or a Matrimonial room.

Single Room
A single room surcharge will be applied if you want to have a room for yourself.

Contact us for further details:

When a date is not open yet, we will require a minimum of 2 travelers to run the package.

Is This Trip Right for You?

South American Destinations

As you would expect in some of our destinations the hotels are traditional and are housed in ancient colonial houses. Some don’t include air conditioning and in hot humid conditions these can be sometimes be uncomfortable. At altitudes most of the hotels offer free Coca Tea to help with the symptoms and also have oxygen tanks ready for those suffering from altitude sickness.

Things to Consider

Most day will start very early in the morning. For example, when visiting Machu Picchu you will start before sunrise. The pace of this tour is face and expect to do around 3-4 hours walking on most days.

When visiting Machu Picchu walking sticks are not allowed in some of the more delicate areas, if you do use a walking stick, they must have a rubber tip or you will not be able to enter with your stick.

Altitude is also a consideration on this tour with altitudes of up to 12400 feet, if you have a heart or any other medical condition, please check with your health care provider before considering this tour.

Transportation:

There are two days with a 7 and 10-hour drive, most days include some form of bus or train travel.

Terrain:

You will encounter some uneven surfaces, stairs at ancient sites, steps, significant slopes, along with narrow and possibly slippery paths at the falls.

Travel Style:

Fast paced, you will need a certain amount of fitness for this tour.

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 30% of the total cost deposit per person for booking (all payments are subject to a 5.5% 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 1 month 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 cities of Cusco and Puno stand 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. The body does adjust to the thin air; it just needs time. We organize tours you can participate in before your Machupicchu trip, that don’t require much exertion, so it’s a good way to acclimatize. 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 South America 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 5.5% 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.

Argentina – Being such a large country, Argentina has a diverse range of climates.  Buenos Aires and the Pampas enjoy a temperate climate and hot summers, while Patagonia and the south have a much colder climate. Depending on where and when you are traveling, bring comfortable walking shoes, warm and light clothes you can layer and an all-weather jacket. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops). Always bring a set of clothes for dining out at night. You will need to be smarter in some restaurants and clubs. If you are traveling south remember to bring warmer jackets and boots. The seasons are as follows. Spring: September – November; Summer: December – February; Fall: March – May; Winter: June – August

Brazil – the country has a mostly tropical climate, experiencing warm to hot weather year-round. Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer and an all-weather jacket. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops). Bring a set of smarter clothes for dining out at night. Lightweight clothing that can be layered, sunscreen, and a hat are recommended.

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, layers for the mountains with a warm jacket and for the summer on the coast cool casual clothing is best.

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 cars 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, the hearty beef in Argentina and the Feijoada of Brazil, with each country offering unique and different flavors. 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)

ARGENTINA: Books

In Patagonia by Bruce Chatwin

The Tango Singer by Tomás Eloy Martínez

The Motorcycle Diaries by Ernesto ‘Che’ Guevara

ARGENTINA: Films

The Clan (2015)

White Elephant (2012)

The Aura (2005)

La Cienaga (2001)

Best South America 20-Day Tour Package: Brazil, Argentina & Peru

From
$ 5990 PP
20 Days