37 Day Inspiring South America, Patagonia & Antarctica Exploration Cruise

Welcome to Santiago!

The rest of the afternoon is at leisure to explore this vibrant city.

Airport transfers are not included. Our transfer portal offers the option to book your airport transfers for an easier arrival experience (additional charges apply). Access to this portal will be available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed.

Note: Standard check-in time is 3pm. If you are arriving earlier you are welcome to leave your luggage at the hotel until your room is ready. 

After breakfast meet you guide and fellow travellers for a half day city tour. The 4 hour tour begins with a visit to Santiago's historic city centre, featuring the Plaza de Armas as the focal point. This iconic square is considered "kilometre zero" and marks the heart of the capital, where the city's foundation began during the colonial era. Here, you'll encounter historical landmarks like the Metropolitan Cathedral, a stunning example of Bavarian and neoclassical architectural styles.

Next, we explore the civic district, home to the imposing ministerial buildings surrounding the Palacio de la Moneda, the presidential palace. This building stands as a silent witness to some of the most significant events in Chile's republican history.

The tour then continues through the elegant, old neighbourhoods once inhabited by the city’s aristocracy. These areas, rich in architectural variety, reflect the influence of European immigrants who arrived during the boom of Chile’s mining industry, adding a distinct character to the area.

To wrap up the historical exploration, we take in a panoramic view from one of Santiago's hills, where you can admire the city’s stunning backdrop of mountain slopes. Finally, we head to the city’s western zone, showcasing a striking architectural contrast. Here, you'll see the modern face of Santiago with sleek, innovative buildings that symbolise the city’s dynamic growth and embrace of contemporary design.

The afternoon is at leisure to further explore the city or perhaps relax in one of the cities many eateries or wine bars.

Early this morning you will be transferred to the airport for your included flight to Puerto Natales, gateway to the famous Torres del Paine National Park.

On arrival you are met by a local representative and transferred to your hotel where the rest of your day is at leisure.

Puerto Natales, located in the Chilean Patagonia, located 1,373 kilometres to the south of Santiago, is the primary transit point for travellers to Torres del Paine National Park. Originally it was inhabited by the Kawésqar and the Tehuelche tribes, followed by European settlements, and later by Chilean people; all attracted by the sheep farming industry. Nowadays, one of the most important activities is tourism and thanks to the development of this industry, you can enjoy a world class gastronomy and hospitality service.

You will be collected from the hotel this morning to join a full day group tour of the incredible Torres del Paine National Park. Begin by visiting the ancient Cueva del Milodón, known for its historical significance and natural beauty. Next, explore the village Cerro Castillo, a former livestock farm before entering the breathtaking Torres del Paine National Park, known for its wildlife and stunning views. Experience the highlights of the park, including Lake Nordenskjold, Pehoé, and the picturesque Salto Grande waterfall. Take a short hike to appreciate the park's lakes, rivers, and diverse flora and fauna. Enjoy an included picnic lunch within the park before continuing to Grey Lake and Glacier, a remarkable part of the Southern Patagonian Ice Field. Walk through the scenic lenga beech woods to the lake's shore and marvel at the impressive icebergs. 

Late this afternoon we transfer back to Puerto Natales returning back to your hotel between 7pm- 8pm this evening. 

Please note that the tour routing and inclusions are subject to weather conditions.

Inspiring Highlights

•  Be awed by the spectacular scenery of Torres del Paine National Park

Early this morning you will be transferred to the bus station and assisted to the shuttle transfer to El Calafate in Argentina - the gateway for exploring the breathtaking Los Glaciares National Park, home to iconic attractions such as the world-famous Perito Moreno Glacier.

Upon arrival at the El Calafate bus station this afternoon, a friendly local representative will be waiting to greet you and provide assistance with your transfer to your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure.

El Calafate is a small town in the Argentinean Patagonia, situated in the southwest part of the Santa Cruz Province, at 2,083 kilometres from Buenos Aires. It is an important tourist destination as the hub to visit different parts of the Los Glaciares National Park, including the Perito Moreno Glacier (one of the most visited glaciers in the world), the Cerro Torre and Cerro Fitz Roy. Its name is derived from a little bush with yellow flowers and dark blue berries that is very common in Patagonia.

Special Information 
Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.

Today you will be met at the hotel to join a full day tour of the incredible Perito Moreno Glacier and Los Glaciares National Park. On the 80 km journey, enjoy the breathtaking view of Argentino Lake and Redonda Bay, home to diverse bird species and surrounded by the picturesque yellow fields of the Patagonian steppe. Once at the glacier, marvel at its majestic presence. The catwalks are divided into three circuits: Central Balconies, Lower Balcony, and Coast's Balcony, each offering resting and panoramic viewpoints where you will have ample time to explore the catwalks on your own experiencing the awe-inspiring beauty of the glacier. 

Additionally, you can take an optional boat tour to approach the glacier's southern front.

Today you will be transferred to the airport for your included flight to Buenos Aires.  On arrival in Buenos Aires you will be met by a local representative and transferred to your hotel.  The remainder of the day is at leisure to explore this vibrant city.

Please note that your internal flights today has a luggage limit of 15kg per person (33lbs). Unfortunately, Inspiring Vacations cannot increase this limit and is limited by the airlines luggage policy.  Any fees for excess baggage incurred at the airport will be the responsibility of the traveller and payable directly to the airline during check in.

This morning you will be transferred to the airport to take an early flight to Ushuaia. On arrival you will be collected and transferred to board your deluxe eco-friendly expedition ship.

Ushuaia, a lively harbour town, serves as the capital of Argentina's Tierra del Fuego Province. Nestled against the stunning Martial Glacier, Ushuaia competes for the distinction of being the world's southernmost city.

Following an informative session led by your Expedition Team, settle into your cabin and familiarise yourself with the ship. 

Tonight, we kick off our journey with a welcome dinner.

Note:  Flight tickets Buenos Aires to Ushuaia and retrun will be provided locally by the cruise operator.

Prepare yourself for Antarctica as we cross the infamous Drake Passage, and trust us – it will take your breath away!  During the two-day journey across the Drake Passage, the Expedition Team will provide you with all the necessary resources to maximise your polar expedition experience.

Explore the onboard Science Center to gain insights into what lies ahead. Engage with passionate experts who will discuss Antarctica's history, the scientific discoveries beneath the ice, and the consequences of climate change and plastic pollution. You'll receive guidance on how to ensure your visit is both safe and environmentally responsible, and you'll also learn about the Citizen Science initiatives you can participate in.

You'll have ample opportunities to unwind, so take advantage of the spa and wellness facilities, savour delectable cuisine, and socialise with fellow travellers at the Explorer Lounge & Bar.

Today is another day at sea as your ship makes its way to the Antarctic Peninsula. Relax and enjoy your ship’s facilities, or join one of the lectures conducted throughout the day.

Welcome to one of the most remote areas on Earth! 

There have been spectacular photo opportunities so far, but Antarctica is in an entirely different category. Go ashore by Zodiac boat to explore the breathtaking Antarctic scenery and get close to penguins and seals. You will feel like a real explorer from the moment you set foot on the endless expanse of snow and ice and from the deck there will be ample opportunities to see whales. 

Over the next six days we’ll be making various landings in different locations throughout the peninsula. Enjoy close encounters with wildlife and glaciers, and visit old whaling stations and its relics. Trust us when we say that every second of this journey has something new to offer. You'll join the Expedition Team on landings and ice-cruises, and may even get a chance to go kayaking among the icebergs. 

Whales begin to arrive in greater numbers by December and January. This is also when the first penguin chicks hatch and seeing the clumsy clumps of feathers run around is always a charming sight. February and March offer peak whale-watching opportunities, when large amounts of krill lure them to the area.

One of the highlights of the South Shetlands is Deception Island. When we sail into the natural harbour of this volcanic island, you will see an abandoned whaling station known as Hektor and a derelict British base. 

Over the course of the next few days we’ll also visit Wilhelmina Bay, Paradise Harbor and other remote locations. Join gatherings where the various members of the expedition team recount the day’s activities, make presentations, and discuss the next day’s plan. These gatherings are great opportunities to share experiences and mingle with your fellow explorers.

Another day in Antarctic waters learning about the natural flora and fauna, joining Zodiac landings and various activities (weather depending).

Another day in Antarctic waters learning about the natural flora and fauna, joining Zodiac landings and joining various activities (weather depending).

Another day in Antarctic waters learning about the natural flora and fauna, joining Zodiac landings and joining various activities (weather depending).

Another day in Antarctic waters learning about the natural flora and fauna, joining Zodiac landings and joining various activities (weather depending).

After five incredible days, we set course back to civilization. Spend the day at sea recapping your experiences with fellow explorers, or just relaxing on deck. The next couple of days will be a chance to reflect on your adventure to the seventh continent.

Today is another day at sea as your ship makes its way back to South America. Relax and enjoy your ship's facilities, or join one of the lectures conducted throughout the day.

Sadly, every adventure must come to an end. It is time to say goodbye to the crew and all your new friends when we reach Ushuaia. We will transfer you to the airport for your flight back to Buenos Aires. On arrival at the airport you will be met and transferred to your hotel.

Today is at leisure to explore this incredible city on your own. Home to a proud and diverse community of porteños, or ‘people of the port’, this city is a sensuous fusion of faded European splendour and Latin American panache.  There are plenty of places to explore, including many parrillas serving authentic Argentine steak. 

Alternatively you may wish to join one of the optional tours available today.

In the morning, meet your local representative at approximately 8am for a welcome meeting and a briefing on the trip ahead. This meeting will be followed by a city tour of Buenos Aires before transferring to the airport for your flight to Iguazu. 

During the city tour we’ll head to Plaza de Mayo (Main Square) and see the pink-hued Casa Rosada (Government Palace) – this is, of course, where Juan and Eva Perón delivered famous speeches from the balconies. See Metropolitan Cathedral and City Hall before we head to La Boca to learn more about Argentina’s passion – _fútbol _(football). We’ll pass by La Bombonera, the iconic stadium of the Boca Juniors, and see Puerto Madero on the waterfront, the most modern neighbourhood of the city. We’ll finish with a visit to the upscale Recoleta neighbourhood, with its elegant buildings and the most exclusive pocket of the city, Alvear Avenue.  You will have some free time to visit the famous Recoleta Cemetary (not included and time permitting) or grab a coffee at one of the local cafes.

The flight to Puerto Iguazu is approximately 1.5hrs long.  On arrival you will be transferred across to the Brazil side of the falls for your accommodation.

The Iguazu Falls are located where the Iguazu River cascades over the edge of the Paraná Plateau, created by an enormous volcanic eruption more than 130 million years ago. Straddling the Argentine-Brazil border, the falls are made up of up to 275 individual waterfalls, lining a 2.7km-wide horseshoe-shaped gorge. It’s a truly breathtaking sight to see the unyielding force of nature in such a magnificent setting.

Please note that your internal flights within Argentina have a luggage limit of 15kg per person (33lbs). Unfortunately, Inspiring Vacations cannot increase this limit and is limited by the airlines luggage policy.  Any fees for excess baggage incurred at the airport will be the responsibility of the traveller and payable directly to the airline during check in.
Note: If you require a Brazil visa, please ensure it allows for multiple entry as you will cross the border twice during your time in Iguazu.
Note: Occasionally, due to flight schedules between Buenos aires and Iguazu, the start time and places visited on your Buenos Aires City Tour may vary.

These spectacular falls can be viewed from both sides; the Brazilian side offers a broader, panoramic view, and the Argentinian side offers a series of catwalks that allow you to experience the Falls up close.

This morning you’ll explore Iguazu Falls from the Argentinian side. Beginning at the visitor’s centre, you’ll take a ride on the Rainforest Ecological Train before exploring the upper and lower circuit footbridges. These footbridges, raised off the jungle floor, provide panoramic views from above and below the falls.

A visit to monumental, roaring Devil’s Throat – arguably the most spectacular of the falls – is one of the day’s highlights. It’s the heart of the falls and the highest, at about 80 metres. The noise as these mighty falls plunge to the bottom of the narrow canyon is almost deafening. There’s the chance of getting under the falls, with an optional ride on the Gran Aventura.

You’ll return to the hotel in the afternoon.

Today, you’ll tour the relatively dry Brazilian side of the falls, with breathtaking panoramic views at every turn. Uninterrupted vistas of the Floriana Falls, the Devil’s Gorge canyon and the Iguazu River are spectacular and guaranteed to impress.

You’ll then be transferred to the airport for your flight to Rio de Janeiro.

Bem vindo ao Rio - Welcome to Rio! You’ll be met at Galeao International Airport and transferred to your hotel in Copacabana, on the city’s dazzling iconic shoreline.

Nicknamed a cidade maravilhosa (the marvellous city), Rio de Janeiro is world-renowned for its dazzling landscapes and location, nestled between steep, green mountains and crystal-clear seas.

The city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site for not only its ‘staggeringly beautiful location’, but its cultural landscape. The city is full of energy. Cariocas, the locals of Rio, are known for their carefree spirit and charm.

Rio is one of the most important cultural and economic cities in Brazil and is home to some of the country’s most famous attractions, like Sugarloaf Mountain (Pão de Açúcar), Corcovado Hill, and Copacabana and Ipanema beaches. The city comes alive for Carnival celebrations each winter, an extravagant pre-Lenten spectacle with street parades and samba parties.

This morning, you’ll meet your local guide who will welcome you and brief you on the next couple days. Then we’ll embark on a full day tour of Rio de Janeiro to see the city’s famous landmarks, like Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf Mountain.

We’ll take a scenic drive from Copacabana Beach, continuing along Botafogo Beach and passing imposing Guanabara Palace on the way to Corcovado Hill. At the top we’ll find the greatest national icon, Christ the Redeemer, standing tall over the city with arms outstretched. This giant Art Deco statue was recently named as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. The panoramic views of the city are lovely from up here, 709 metres at the summit.

We’ll then continue on to the district of Urca and the world-famous rocky peak of Sugarloaf Mountain, where you’ll board the first cable car to the top of Urca Hill, enjoying spectacular views of Guanabara Bay.

A second cable car takes you on to Sugarloaf, with 360-degree views of the city and surrounds. Sugarloaf Mountain towers over the harbour, 400 metres above the mouth of Guanabara Bay.

Afterwards, we’ll pass through the famous beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema en route to a traditional Brazilian lunch at a local churrascaria, an all-you-can-eat barbeque.

After lunch, we’ll visit the Maracanã Stadium, home of Bellini’s statue and the Hall of Fame. Brazilians also love their football (soccer) and this is their biggest stadium. Entrance to the stadium is not included. And there will be a stop at the Sambadrome, the stadium for the city’s main Carnival parade.

As we pass through the city’s historic centre, you’ll have a chance to see the Lapa Arches. Built in the middle of the 18th century, this aqueduct is an impressive example of colonial architecture and engineering. We’ll also make a quick stop to see the colourful Selaron Stairs, an amazing urban work of art by the late Jorge Selaron. These steps are decorated with more than 2,000 brightly coloured tiles and mirrors.

We’ll return to the hotel along Aterro de Flamengo (Flamengo Park), passing by the Monument to the Dead of World War II and the beaches of Flamengo and Botafogo.

It’s a free day for you to enjoy the rhythm of this vibrant, bustling city. Your tour guide will be at hand to assist with suggestions and optional activities. Relax on the legendary beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema or take one of the tours on offer to explore more of this iconic city.

The famous crescent-shaped beach of Copacabana is a tourist hotspot. It’s lively, vibrant and busy… round-the-clock busy. The golden sand stretches nearly four kilometres long, from Copacabana Fort to Leme Beach. It’s lined with high-rise hotels, including the iconic Copacabana where Barry Manilow penned that hit in the 1970s.

Wander the iconic black and white promenade – it’s everything you imagined. Swaying palm trees, skimpy bikinis and people sunning themselves, playing volleyball, dancing and swimming. Beach vendors stroll up and down the shore, selling all manner of snacks, souvenirs and drinks.

Ipanema Beach is more upscale, the place to see and be seen. You’ll find more locals chilling out here.

If you are planning to take a dip in the warm Carioca waters, make sure you leave your belongings at your hotel. Unfortunately, opportunistic theft can be a regular occurrence.

If you want to relax off the beach, the Rio de Janeiro Botanical Gardens are lovely for a stroll. There’s a Japanese garden, a pond filled with water lilies and 600 species of orchids.

Head to the Benedictine Church and Monastery of São Bento, founded in 1590. The unassuming exterior is in complete contrast to the intricate interior, covered with gilded carved wood and decorated with exquisite wooden statues. São Francisco da Penitência is an elaborate church – you have to see inside to believe it, with its rich gold leaf interior. The choir ceiling has the earliest trompe-l’oeil painting in the country, painted by Caetano da Costa Coehlo in 1736.

For a taste of Rio nightlife – or just great people watching – head to the Lapa neighbourhood in downtown (where you saw the Lapa Arches yesterday). As Rio’s party district, it’s home to samba bars and a huge street party every weekend. Try the national drink caipirinha, a cocktail of sugar, cachaça and lime.

Today you’ll be heading to Lima, City of Kings.

Welcome to Peru! Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to your hotel. Your local guide will meet you for a welcome briefing and offer some tips for this leg of your adventure.

While Peru’s capital officially began life in 1535, Lima was in its prime during the Spanish colonial days and much of the city’s attraction now lies in its well-preserved historical centre. You’ll also find excellent museums – a given considering the history and culture of its surrounds – and interesting colonial architecture. One such museum, the Museo de la Nación, is the largest museum in Lima and an ideal place to begin exploring Peru’s ancient history.

Get ready to discover Lima today!

In the morning, your local guide will meet you for a welcome briefing and offer some tips for this leg of your adventure.

On the way to the historic centre, we’ll see the outside of the pre-Columbian site Huaca Pucllana, a magnificent ceremonial and archaeological centre built in the fourth century – considered a sacred village by the Incas.

We’ll continue on to the colonial side of the city where we’ll pass by the Cathedral, the Viceroyalty of Peru, the Government Palace, City Hall, and other important monuments. We’ll visit the Plaza Mayor (Main Square), the historical centre of Lima. Although most of the buildings of the original city were lost in the earthquake of 1746, the bronze fountain in the centre of the square dates back to 1651.

Later, we’ll visit the Bodega Y Quadra Museum, in a well-preserved house of the Peruvian Republican period. Then we’ll see the 16th-century Santo Domingo Convent, one of Peru’s oldest churches. There may be a chance to climb the bell tower for stunning views of Lima.

Finally, we’ll see the changing of the guards at Government Palace (subject to the Palace’s program) before returning to the hotel.

You’ll have the afternoon free to explore on your own. Your local guide will be with you to assist in anything you may need.

Feel free to head to the modern section of this great metropolis and visit the district of Miraflores with its shopping mall Larcomar, built on a spectacular cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean and the traditional ‘Parque del amor’ (Love Park). Miraflores is home to the pyramid-shaped temple of Huaca Pucllana. If you have time, a leisurely stroll down the Miraflores Boardwalk will showcase the coastline views.

With its vibrant, varied flavours, Peruvian food will undoubtedly be a highlight of your trip and Lima is the country’s gastronomic capital. Ceviche is Peru’s most popular dish, and with the Pacific Ocean just west of the city, you’ll find it everywhere – from cevicherias to street stalls to fine dining restaurants. You might like to end the day with the ubiquitous pisco sour, a popular cocktail made with the nation’s favourite brandy.

At the appropriate time, you’ll be taken to the airport to board your flight for the Peruvian jungle town of Puerto Maldonado – gateway to the Peruvian Amazon.

Upon arrival, the staff will welcome you and take you to the nearby office to pack your bag for the jungle stay (a small duffel bag will be provided). Your luggage will be stored in a secure place while you are exploring the jungle.

We will then travel to the port where we will board our motorboat for our journey along the warm, calm waters of the Tambopata River. Travel time is about 1 hour and 45 minutes to reach our lodge.  A picnic lunch box will be provided to enjoy onboard. 

This area is the least populated territory in Peru, with its lush tropical rainforest. Of course, it’s more than a rainforest – it’s a complex ecosystem, with a dazzling array of flora and fauna. You’ll observe life in the jungle, its thrilling landscapes and the fascinating wildlife that call it home.

When you arrive at the lodge you will be provided with useful information to enhance your stay.  Accommodation at your lodge is simple but comfortable, designed to enjoy the ambience of the jungle.  Rooms have private bathrooms (cold water).  You will then have free time to settle in and perhaps take a short walk to watch the sunset.  

After dinner, you’ll search for caiman. We’ll return to the river with flashlights in search of the red reflection of caiman eyes lurking along the riverbank. With any luck, we’ll see some nocturnal animals as well. It’s a magical experience to witness them in the wilderness.

Please note that the order and schedule of the activities during your stay may be modified according to weather and the wellbeing of the group. 

Please Note: when purchasing a single supplement please be aware that on rare occasions, this might not cover the jungle stay depending on passenger numbers and rooming configurations for your departure date.

A day of adventure awaits! In order to have the best chance of observing fauna the day will start early.

Enjoy a delicious breakfast at the lodge before taking a 30 minute boat ride and 2km hike to “Tres Chimbadas Lake”, a fascinating unique habitat in the Amazon basin.  This small lake located inside the Infierno Community Reserve is home to many species, including the endangered Giant River Otters.  You will explore the lake by catamaran as your guide helps you to seek out wildlife such as black caymans, hoatzins, horned screamers and other aquatic birds as well as lush vegetation surrounding the river banks. Return to the Lodge for lunch.

After a well-deserved break, your naturalist guide will take you to a 42 metre (137 ft)- high tower to get an overview of the Amazon Rainforest from above. This is the first tower made to measure the effects of climate change. The tower is equipped with a wide variety of devices to measure solar radiation and carbon flux emission in the Peruvian rainforest. From the tower we have a unique opportunity to see the flora and fauna at all the different forest levels. With luck you may spot flocks of canopy birds and macaws at close proximity. Return to the lodge for dinner.

After dinner, an excursion into the Amazon rainforest promises real adventure. Explore this thrilling jungle on one of the lodge’s trails, home to nocturnal animals with intriguing behaviour patterns. Experience this hidden world in the dark and search for insects, amphibians, bats and nocturnal birds. If lucky, we’ll see some nocturnal mammals.

Return to the lodge for the night where you will sleep to the sounds of the jungle.

After breakfast, we’ll take a ride back to Puerto Maldonado by motorised canoe. You’ll pick up your belongings and transfer to the airport to board your flight to Cusco. Upon arrival you’ll be met by your local guide and transferred to your hotel in the Sacred Valley.

The Sacred Valley was once the epicentre of the Inca Empire, running from the ancient capital of the empire, Cusco, to the breathtaking citadel of Machu Picchu. This lush green valley’s agreeable climate and fertile plains provided an unusual abundance for the high Andes. Here the Incas sculpted the mountain flanks with vast contour terracing and irrigation channels.

In the morning we’ll head to the Sacred Valley of the Incas.

We’ll visit a community in the valley to learn about daily life for the locals. If the visit coincides with market day, you’ll have time to browse the stalls for hand-painted beads or warm ponchos – or a chance to practise the local language, Quechua. Lunch will be served at the community.

In the afternoon, we’ll visit the town of Ollantaytambo and there is the option of visiting the ruins here.

One of the New Seven Wonders of the World, this is the jewel in South America’s crown – today we’ll visit the breathtaking archaeological site of Machu Picchu.

Early morning you’ll be taken to the station to board the fabled tourist train towards Machu Picchu Pueblo (formerly Aguas Calientes). It’s a modern little town close to the sanctuary of Machu Picchu.

The train ride to Machu Picchu is one of the most beautiful journeys you can experience in Peru. It’s an almost two-hour journey that passes through the Sacred Valley of the Incas, then descends gradually along the edge of the Urubamba River, before finally reaching the cloud forest. The train reaches its last stop in Machu Picchu Pueblo (formerly Aguas Calientes), on the foothills of Machu Picchu. From here it’s a short bus ride – about 30 minutes – up the steep, zigzagging road to the famed ancient site.

Upon arrival, we’ll enter the archaeological zone of Machu Picchu and the tour guide will show you the most important sectors of this great Inca City, such as the great Intiwatana (solar clock) and the Sun Temple, among others. Machu Picchu is divided into two sectors, the urban sector in the northern part and the agricultural sector on the south-east side.

Now the most recognisable icon of the Inca civilisation, Machu Picchu was long thought to be legendary. Then, in 1911, explorer Hiram Bingham stumbled upon its remains. At 2430 metres above sea level, Machu Picchu is in the middle of a tropical mountain forest, in an extraordinarily beautiful setting. It was probably the most amazing creation of the Inca Empire at the height of their reign. The stonework has to be seen up close to truly comprehend its intricate beauty. Giant walls, terraces and ramps seem as if they have been cut naturally in the continuous rock escarpments.

After the tour, we’ll return to Machu Picchu Pueblo (formerly Aguas Calientes) by bus before taking the tourist train back to Ollantaytambo town, followed by a private transfer to your hotel in Cusco.

You’ll have a free morning to relax in Cusco. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Cusco has a long and interesting history, from the first Inca ruler through to the Spanish conquest – and now a major tourist destination. It’s the oldest continuously inhabited city in the Americas.

As you wander the streets and side alleys of the city you will witness the perfect tapering Inca stonework that provided the foundations for many of Cusco’s colonial and modern buildings.

In the afternoon, we’ll enjoy a guided walking tour to discover the sights of Cusco, vivid examples of the mixture of Inca and Spanish cultures. We’ll start with the Stone of Twelve Angles at the Inca Roca Palace, on Hatun Rumilloc Street (check) before visiting the most sacred Inca building, the Temple of Qorikancha – the Inca temple of the sun.

We’ll then visit the heart of the city, the busy main square Plaza de Armas – a great place to people watch. Then, time at the San Pedro Market makes for some great food and souvenir shopping – you’ll find local cheese and chocolate, herbal medicines and local handicrafts.

You’ll have a free day to see Cusco at your own pace today.

Perhaps a visit to the traditional, picturesque neighbourhood of San Blas is in order – you can reach it by taking a short but steep walk from the Plaza de Armas. Here you’ll find art studios, artisan workshops and many of the best bars and restaurants. It’s a great place to wander and soak in the atmosphere.

We’ll set off for Puno today, a ten-hour bus journey. This is a gorgeous scenic journey. The first half is dominated by the magnificent Andean mountains towering over deep valleys, then you’ll reach the gentler, rolling Andean Plains, where vicuñas and alpacas can be spotted.

Along the way, we’ll visit charming landmarks with a rich history, like the Sistine Chapel of the Americas, or the Andahuaylillas Church, built during the 17th century, and the archaeological site of Raqchi (also known as Temple of Wiracocha). You’ll get a beautiful view of the Chimboya glacier from the La Raya Pass. There will be a stop at the Pukara Lithic Museum, where you’ll find archaeological gems like stone sculptures and impressive pottery among the artefacts.

Today we’ll take a boat to explore Lake Titicaca, an ancient treasure trove of Andean culture that straddles the border between Peru and Bolivia. We’ll spend the day touring by boat on this high altitude lake. There are numerous islands here whose inhabitants live with the same customs and traditions of their ancestors.

We’ll spend time on the Uros Islands (floating islands). Centuries ago, the indigenous Uros tribe harvested totora reeds in the shallows of the lake, bundled them tightly and built floating island platforms with reed houses and canoes.

We’ll then continue to Taquile Island, about an hour away. The Taquileños, Quechua-speaking locals who live here – about 2,200 of them – are known for their ancestral weaving skills (a UNESCO-protected art). Their fine handwoven handicrafts are incredibly high quality.

In the afternoon we’ll return to Puno by boat.

We’ll head to the airport to board a flight to Lima.

Time permiting, on the way to the airport, we’ll visit the pre-Incan cemetery of Sillustani, on the shores of Lake Umayo. You’ll see the most important sectors of this archaeological site, for a deeper insight into Andean culture.

Tombs at this burial ground were built above ground in tower-like structures called chullpas. The remains of the Qulla people’s elite are here – they were conquered by the Inca in the 15th century. We’ll also enjoy a wonderful panoramic view of the lake.

Upon arrival in Lima, you’ll be met and transferred to your hotel.

Enjoy one last delicious breakfast this morning, before your South American adventure comes to an end. 

We hope you’ve been inspired. 

Airport transfers are not included. Our transfer portal offers the option to book your airport transfers for an easier arrival experience (additional charges apply). Access to this portal will be available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed.

Check out: Check-out time is generally between 10am-12pm. You are welcome to leave your luggage at hotel reception and spend your final moments of free time exploring the area or alternatively please speak with hotel staff if you would like to extend your check-out time. If required, your local Tour Leader can help you arrange a transfer to the airport.