G Adventures
South America Discovery: Lima to Rio de Janiero
South America Discovery: Lima to Rio de Janiero
Get ready for the adventure of a lifetime with this 38-day journey through five incredible South American countries – a dream for history buffs, nature enthusiasts, and nightlife seekers alike. Ride the rails through Peru’s stunning Urubamba Valley to the iconic Machu Picchu, dive into the vibrant culture of Lake Titicaca, and marvel at the surreal landscapes of Bolivia’s Salar de Uyuni and Chile’s Valley of the Moon in the Atacama Desert. Explore colorful Valparaíso, find thrills in the adventure haven of Pucón, and relax in the lakeside charm of Bariloche. From the tango halls of Buenos Aires to the samba beats of Rio de Janeiro, and the thundering majesty of Iguassu Falls, every moment of this trip will leave you in awe and hungry for more.
Highlights
Explore the Sacred Valley on a visit to community projects in the highlands, Witness the unforgettable views of Machu Picchu, Take the train through the scenic Urubamba Valley to Aguas Calientes, Witness traditional life on Lake Titicaca, Cross the world’s largest salt flat by 4×4 at the Salar de Uyuni, Enjoy an included excursion to the Valley of the Moon to cherish the uniqueness of the environment, Explore colourful Valparaíso, Enjoy the nightlife in Buenos Aires, Stand in awe of Iguassu Falls, Sip a caipirinha in Rio, Explore the cobblestoned streets of colonial Paraty
Accommodation
Hotels/guesthouses (34 nts), G Adventures-supported lodge/basic hotels on Salar de Uyuni excursion (2 nts, multi-share), Overnight bus (1 nt).
Group Leader
CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout, local guides.
Group Size Notes
Max 17 avg 12
Meals Included
35 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 2 dinners
What’s Included
Your G for Good Moment: Ccaccaccollo Community and Women’s Weaving Co-op visit, Ccaccaccollo
Your G for Good Moment: Parwa Community Restaurant the Sacred Valley, Lamay
Your G for Good Moment: Luquina Chico Community Visit, Lake Titicaca
Your G for Good Moment: Jukil Community Experience & Lodge, Santiago de Agencha
Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment – Meet Your CEO and Group
Your Discover Moment: Cusco
Your Discover Moment: Sucre
Your Foodie Moment: Santiago Region Winery Tour, Santiago
Your Discover Moment: Pucón
Your Discover Moment: Buenos Aires
Your Discover Moment: Paraty
Your Discover Moment: Ilha Grande. Sacred Valley guided tour. Pottery making demonstration. Train to Machu Picchu. Machu Picchu guided tour. Floating islands of Uros visit. Lake Titicaca guided tour. 4×4 excursion to the Salar de Uyuni (3 days). Tour of Valley of the Moon (San Pedro de Atacama). City tour of Santiago. Driving through the Seven Lakes district. Estancia visit and barbecue lunch (full-day). Iguassu Falls visit (Brazil and Argentina). Internal flights. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.
| Day 1 |
Lima's sprawling size and unique embrace of both past and present make it an unforgettably unique destination. Colonial architecture, gastronomical delights, and art are all part of the fabric of this city. Visitors flock to Plaza De Armas De Lima, the spectacular birthplace of Lima, and Huaca Pucllana, a vast adobe and clay pyramid in central Lima. Additionally, UNESCO World Heritage Site Basilica y Convento de San Francisco (St. Francis Monastery) is a can't-miss part of the historic city center. This busy metropolis faces the Pacific Ocean and its popular seaport is Callao, about eight miles from the city center. |
| Day 2 |
Lima's sprawling size and unique embrace of both past and present make it an unforgettably unique destination. Colonial architecture, gastronomical delights, and art are all part of the fabric of this city. Visitors flock to Plaza De Armas De Lima, the spectacular birthplace of Lima, and Huaca Pucllana, a vast adobe and clay pyramid in central Lima. Additionally, UNESCO World Heritage Site Basilica y Convento de San Francisco (St. Francis Monastery) is a can't-miss part of the historic city center. This busy metropolis faces the Pacific Ocean and its popular seaport is Callao, about eight miles from the city center. |
| Day 3 |
Cusco is the South America's oldest continuously inhabited city, the gateway to Machu Picchu and once was the capital of the Inca Empire. Make sure you get to Plaza de Armas, the main square and center of the city. Walk through the nearby San Pedro Market to find a special gift for loved ones (or yourself!) or view the Sun Temple Coricancha. |
| Day 4 |
Most commonly reached via travel from Cusco, Ollantaytambo is an Incan archaeological site in the Sacred Valley of southern Peru. The town dates from the late 15th century and is home to some of the oldest continuously-occupied dwellings in South America. Its primary attraction is the fortress ruins, and it's also a favorite starting point for the famous Inca Trail, a four-day, three-night hike to Machu Picchu. |
| Day 5 |
Most commonly reached via travel from Cusco, Ollantaytambo is an Incan archaeological site in the Sacred Valley of southern Peru. The town dates from the late 15th century and is home to some of the oldest continuously-occupied dwellings in South America. Its primary attraction is the fortress ruins, and it's also a favorite starting point for the famous Inca Trail, a four-day, three-night hike to Machu Picchu. |
| Day 6 |
|
| Day 7 |
Cusco is the South America's oldest continuously inhabited city, the gateway to Machu Picchu and once was the capital of the Inca Empire. Make sure you get to Plaza de Armas, the main square and center of the city. Walk through the nearby San Pedro Market to find a special gift for loved ones (or yourself!) or view the Sun Temple Coricancha. |
| Day 8 |
Situated on the shore of Lake Titicaca, Puno is referred to as the folkloric capital of Peru due to its artistic and cultural expressions, particularly dance. Notable landmarks include the Andean baroque-style Puno Cathedral and the Yavari, a 19th-century steamship. Products created from alpaca, llama, or sheep wool are a signature of the area, as well as musical instruments like the siku. |
| Day 9 |
Situated on the shore of Lake Titicaca, Puno is referred to as the folkloric capital of Peru due to its artistic and cultural expressions, particularly dance. Notable landmarks include the Andean baroque-style Puno Cathedral and the Yavari, a 19th-century steamship. Products created from alpaca, llama, or sheep wool are a signature of the area, as well as musical instruments like the siku. |
| Day 10 |
Situated on the shore of Lake Titicaca, Puno is referred to as the folkloric capital of Peru due to its artistic and cultural expressions, particularly dance. Notable landmarks include the Andean baroque-style Puno Cathedral and the Yavari, a 19th-century steamship. Products created from alpaca, llama, or sheep wool are a signature of the area, as well as musical instruments like the siku. |
| Day 11 |
It is confusing, but Bolivia has two capitals: La Paz is the administrative capital and Sucre, where the document of independence from Spain was signed in 1825, is the constitutional capital. the airport, appropriately named "El Alto" (meaning "high") is 12,700 feet above sea level. La Paz is a little lower, at 11,880 feet. La Paz has its modern side, with good hotels, office complexes and good restaurants, but go to the market area and you're transported back in time a few hundred years. |
| Day 12 |
The former capital of the vast Spanish empire in the area, it was called La Plata when it was founded in 1538. It was known as Chuquiasaca from 1776 to 1825 when it was named Sucre after a famous general of the war for independence. Today it is the legal capital of Bolivia. |
| Day 13 |
The former capital of the vast Spanish empire in the area, it was called La Plata when it was founded in 1538. It was known as Chuquiasaca from 1776 to 1825 when it was named Sucre after a famous general of the war for independence. Today it is the legal capital of Bolivia. |
| Day 14 |
The former capital of the vast Spanish empire in the area, it was called La Plata when it was founded in 1538. It was known as Chuquiasaca from 1776 to 1825 when it was named Sucre after a famous general of the war for independence. Today it is the legal capital of Bolivia. |
| Day 15 |
The city of Uyuni, Bolivia, is best known as a gateway and transportation hub for commerce and traffic between Bolivia and Chile, as well as being connected via railway to La Paz, Potosi, Calama (in Chile), and Villazón, on the Argentine border. It also serves as the gateway for tourists visiting the nearby Uyuni salt flats, the world's largest at more than 4,000 square miles.
Another of the area's major tourist attractions is an antique train cemetery. The railway, constructed near the end of the 19th century, was used mainly by mining companies, carrying goods out to the ocean ports. By the 1940s, mineral depletion lead to the collapse of the local mining industry and the trains were soon abandoned. |
| Day 16 |
The city of Uyuni, Bolivia, is best known as a gateway and transportation hub for commerce and traffic between Bolivia and Chile, as well as being connected via railway to La Paz, Potosi, Calama (in Chile), and Villazón, on the Argentine border. It also serves as the gateway for tourists visiting the nearby Uyuni salt flats, the world's largest at more than 4,000 square miles.
Another of the area's major tourist attractions is an antique train cemetery. The railway, constructed near the end of the 19th century, was used mainly by mining companies, carrying goods out to the ocean ports. By the 1940s, mineral depletion lead to the collapse of the local mining industry and the trains were soon abandoned. |
| Day 17 |
|
| Day 18 |
|
| Day 19 |
|
| Day 20 |
|
| Day 21 |
Flanked by the Chilean Coast Range and the snowy Andes, Chile's largest metropolis offers a dazzling array of sights and attractions for visitors to pursue. Mirrored skyscrapers, 16th-century churches, hip cafes, dance clubs... and did we mention the delicious Chilean cuisine? Must-sees in scenic Santiago include the famous city center Plaza de Armas, Parque Tupahue with its zoo and cable cars, and San Cristóbal Hill, with its hikes and widescreen city views. |
| Day 22 |
Valparaíso, Chile, is a city that beckons travelers with its vibrant street art, steep hillsides, and bohemian spirit. Known as the "Jewel of the Pacific," Valparaíso's historical importance as a major port during the 19th century has left an indelible mark on its architecture and culture. The city's UNESCO-listed historic quarter is a labyrinth of colorful houses and cobblestone streets that seem to defy gravity as they cascade down to the Pacific Ocean (UNESCO). The iconic Ascensores (funiculars) that dot the city offer a unique way to explore these hills while providing stunning panoramic views. One of the most compelling reasons to visit Valparaíso is its thriving arts scene. The city is essentially an open-air museum, with vibrant murals and street art adorning nearly every surface. A walk through Cerro Alegre and Cerro Concepción neighborhoods will reveal an ever-changing gallery of bold colors and creative expressions, with each piece telling a story of the city's past and present (Chile Travel). The art extends into the city's lively culture, with numerous galleries, cafes, and cultural centers where you can immerse yourself in the local creative energy. Valparaíso is also deeply connected to the life and work of Chile's Nobel Prize-winning poet, Pablo Neruda. His house, La Sebastiana, perched high on a hill overlooking the bay, is now a museum dedicated to his legacy. Visitors can explore Neruda's eclectic collections and enjoy the same breathtaking views that inspired many of his writings (Fundación Pablo Neruda). This connection to Neruda adds a literary charm to the city's already rich cultural tapestry. Fun Fact: Valparaíso hosts one of the most famous New Year's Eve celebrations in South America. The city's annual fireworks display, "Año Nuevo en el Mar," lights up the sky over the bay, attracting visitors from all over the world who come to witness this spectacular event (Valparaíso Tourism). |
| Day 23 |
Valparaíso, Chile, is a city that beckons travelers with its vibrant street art, steep hillsides, and bohemian spirit. Known as the "Jewel of the Pacific," Valparaíso's historical importance as a major port during the 19th century has left an indelible mark on its architecture and culture. The city's UNESCO-listed historic quarter is a labyrinth of colorful houses and cobblestone streets that seem to defy gravity as they cascade down to the Pacific Ocean (UNESCO). The iconic Ascensores (funiculars) that dot the city offer a unique way to explore these hills while providing stunning panoramic views. One of the most compelling reasons to visit Valparaíso is its thriving arts scene. The city is essentially an open-air museum, with vibrant murals and street art adorning nearly every surface. A walk through Cerro Alegre and Cerro Concepción neighborhoods will reveal an ever-changing gallery of bold colors and creative expressions, with each piece telling a story of the city's past and present (Chile Travel). The art extends into the city's lively culture, with numerous galleries, cafes, and cultural centers where you can immerse yourself in the local creative energy. Valparaíso is also deeply connected to the life and work of Chile's Nobel Prize-winning poet, Pablo Neruda. His house, La Sebastiana, perched high on a hill overlooking the bay, is now a museum dedicated to his legacy. Visitors can explore Neruda's eclectic collections and enjoy the same breathtaking views that inspired many of his writings (Fundación Pablo Neruda). This connection to Neruda adds a literary charm to the city's already rich cultural tapestry. Fun Fact: Valparaíso hosts one of the most famous New Year's Eve celebrations in South America. The city's annual fireworks display, "Año Nuevo en el Mar," lights up the sky over the bay, attracting visitors from all over the world who come to witness this spectacular event (Valparaíso Tourism). |
| Day 24 |
|
| Day 25 |
|
| Day 26 |
|
| Day 27 |
|
| Day 28 |
|
| Day 29 |
|
| Day 30 |
Buenos Aires, the vibrant political and cultural capital of Argentina, has become an enticing destination for many travelers and a must-see destination in South America. Founded in the sixteenth century by Spanish explorers, Buenos Aires has since developed its own unique flair. Hints of Buenos Aires’s colonial origins can be found in the Plaza de Mayo city center, including the Cabildo, the Spanish colonial town hall turned museum, and Casa Rosada, the iconic governmental building. This bright pink palace was once the site for Eva Peron’s political speeches, immortalized in Broadway’s Evita, and is a favorite landmark for photographs. In contrast, La Boca’s famous Caminito street museum bursts with brilliant hues of blue, red, green, and yellow and is a haven for local Argentine artists, chefs, and dancers. Buenos Aires abounds with art, beauty, and romance. The luxurious Teatro Colón opera house rivals those in Paris and London, while El Ateneo Grand Splendid bookstore, housed in an old cinema theater, is a book-lover’s paradise. Stop by the Café Tortoni to delight in fresh coffee and churros or listen to live tango and jazz performances. Browse eclectic and traditional antiques in Plaza Dorrego’s San Telmo fair. Marvel at the city’s Floralis Genérica sculpture, whose massive aluminum and steel petals open or close in response to sunlight and wind. Buenos Aires’s stunning blend of colonial, European, and modern architecture, gastronomy, and attractions will enthrall you at every turn! |
| Day 31 |
Buenos Aires, the vibrant political and cultural capital of Argentina, has become an enticing destination for many travelers and a must-see destination in South America. Founded in the sixteenth century by Spanish explorers, Buenos Aires has since developed its own unique flair. Hints of Buenos Aires’s colonial origins can be found in the Plaza de Mayo city center, including the Cabildo, the Spanish colonial town hall turned museum, and Casa Rosada, the iconic governmental building. This bright pink palace was once the site for Eva Peron’s political speeches, immortalized in Broadway’s Evita, and is a favorite landmark for photographs. In contrast, La Boca’s famous Caminito street museum bursts with brilliant hues of blue, red, green, and yellow and is a haven for local Argentine artists, chefs, and dancers. Buenos Aires abounds with art, beauty, and romance. The luxurious Teatro Colón opera house rivals those in Paris and London, while El Ateneo Grand Splendid bookstore, housed in an old cinema theater, is a book-lover’s paradise. Stop by the Café Tortoni to delight in fresh coffee and churros or listen to live tango and jazz performances. Browse eclectic and traditional antiques in Plaza Dorrego’s San Telmo fair. Marvel at the city’s Floralis Genérica sculpture, whose massive aluminum and steel petals open or close in response to sunlight and wind. Buenos Aires’s stunning blend of colonial, European, and modern architecture, gastronomy, and attractions will enthrall you at every turn! |
| Day 32 |
The Brazilian city of Foz do Iguaçu sits on the border of Iguassu Falls and is a popular gateway to the famed waterfalls. Other attractions include the Omar Ibn Al-Khattab mosque, the largest in Latin America; Parque das Aves (Park of the Birds), home to roughly 900 birds representing 180 species; and the Itaipu Dam, named one of the seven modern Wonders of the World as the world's second largest hydroelectric plant. |
| Day 33 |
The Brazilian city of Foz do Iguaçu sits on the border of Iguassu Falls and is a popular gateway to the famed waterfalls. Other attractions include the Omar Ibn Al-Khattab mosque, the largest in Latin America; Parque das Aves (Park of the Birds), home to roughly 900 birds representing 180 species; and the Itaipu Dam, named one of the seven modern Wonders of the World as the world's second largest hydroelectric plant. |
| Day 34 |
Located 3 hours south of Rio, Paratay is a National Monument that was founded in the 17th century. |
| Day 35 |
Ilha Grande, Brazil |
| Day 36 |
Ilha Grande, Brazil |
| Day 37 |
Ilha Grande, Brazil |
| Day 38 |
Exhilarating Rio de Janeiro, the vibrant South American destination and cultural capital, abounds with iconic landmarks, beaches, and attractions. Christ the Redeemer, the hundred-foot mosaic statue atop Corcovado Mountain, overlooks the glittering coastline and is instantly recognizable, having become an enduring symbol of the city itself. Its arms stretching wide, the prominent figure beckons you to explore this inviting locale. A visit to Rio won’t be complete without a day spent sunbathing on one of its many local beaches. Copacabana Beach and Ipanema Beach, legendary seaside getaways with white sands and brilliant blue waves, attract millions of visitors each year, but an hour-long trek to the west will bring you to the secluded beauty of Prainha Beach, equally worth admiration. Aside from the crowded beaches, Rio de Janeiro has plenty of serene natural beauty and ecological marvels. Venture west of Rio to immerse yourself in the lush rainforests, waterfalls, and biodiverse wildlife of the Parque Nacional da Tijuca, a verdant paradise for those who love hiking, bird-watching, or rock-climbing excursions! Northeast of Copacabana Beach lies Pão de Açucar, or Sugarloaf Mountain, accessible by a short tram ride to its peak and providing spectacular views of the bustling city. Rio de Janeiro boasts thrilling nightlife, mouthwatering delicacies, and internationally renowned football teams. Dance clubs and bars, offering some of the best cocktails and live music in South America, line the city’s streets, particularly in the popular Lapa neighborhood. Staple street foods include savory churrasco, a Portuguese-style steak, fresh seafood dishes like moqueca, a fish stew, or pão de queijo, warm rolls of cheese bread. International soccer enthusiasts will enjoy touring the Maracanã Stadium, Brazil’s premier football stadium, which can hold up to 80,000 cheering fans per match. Travel to Rio in February for the city’s infamous Carnival, a four-day festival where the streets are filled with samba dancing, parade floats, and brilliantly hued costumes. This colorful city will excite the eye and capture the senses! |
Paratay
Located 3 hours south of Rio, Paratay is a National Monument that was founded in the 17th century.
| Travel Dates | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|
|
06/13/25 - 08/08/25 |
Starting At $10,399 |
Get A Quote | |
|
11/28/25 - 01/04/26 |
Starting At $9,499 |
Get A Quote | |
|
12/19/25 - 12/26/25 |
Starting At $9,949 |
Get A Quote | |
|
01/02/26 - 02/20/26 |
Starting At $9,499 |
Get A Quote | |
|
03/06/26 - 05/22/26 |
Starting At $9,949 |
Get A Quote | |
|
06/05/26 - 08/28/26 |
Starting At $10,449 |
Get A Quote | |
|
09/04/26 - 10/30/26 |
Starting At $9,949 |
Get A Quote | |
|
11/06/26 - 11/27/26 |
Starting At $9,499 |
Get A Quote |
Local Flights
All local flights are included in the cost of your tour unless otherwise noted. It is important that we have your passport information at the time of booking in order to process these tickets. Internal flight tickets are issued locally and will be given to you prior to the flight departure.
Dossier Disclaimer
The information in this trip details document has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However it is subject to change, and does not form part of the contract between the client and the operator. The itinerary featured is correct at time of printing. It may differ slightly to the one in the brochure. Occasionally our itineraries change as we make improvements that stem from past travellers, comments and our own research. Sometimes it can be a small change like adding an extra meal along the itinerary. Sometimes the change may result in us altering the tour for the coming year. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with the most rewarding experience. Please note that our brochure is usually released in November each year. If you have booked from the previous brochure you may find there have been some changes to the itinerary.
VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you print a final copy of your Trip Details to review a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans.
Itinerary Disclaimer
While it is our intention to adhere to the route described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable. The Trip Details document is a general guide to the tour and region and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. Aboard expedition trips visits to research stations depend on final permission.
Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances.
