Overview
Also known as The Kingdom of the Sun, Peru is one of the most representative countries of Latin America due to the mix of native Indian, Afro American and European cultures. Peru is a country where the traditional customs have transcended through the years and they are the base for the current way of life. The contrast produced because of the different landscapes and people is the reason why Peru is a country so interesting for you to visit. The City of Kings was once the scenario of the war against the Spanish conquerors, who came in a ruthless search for the gold that was hidden somewhere in Peru. However, their most wanted treasure was the Lost City of the Incas: Machu Picchu, which they never found.
Argentina is the second biggest state of South America, it has a surface of 2.8 million square kilometers. The country has 33 million inhabitants and nearly half of them live in the surroundings of Buenos Aires, one of the most cosmopolitan cities of the world. Argentina is a fascinating land of contrasts where the exceptional is almost commonplace. It’s home to an abundant wildlife, enjoys a unique culture, and delights in an astonishing variety of landscapes from tropical rain forest in the north to the remote vastness of the Antarctic in the South. Three big landscapes form the country: the Andes in the west, the northern and western flatland as well as the wide plains of Patagonia in the South. The country that is stretched in length has three climatic zones: tropic in the north, moderate in the center and polar in the extreme South. The Indian aborigines only live in the north-western Andean region and in the north-east province of Misiones. The rest of the population is mainly composed of European immigrants. The official language is Spanish, but in bigger towns English is also quite common.
Brazil. One can associate the word as endless Amazon jungle, wonderful beaches, Rio de Janeiro, carnival and samba. This is all correct but in reality, Brazil is much more, a huge country of the superlatives. Brazil, a country of immense proportions and contrasts, has a mysterious attraction for many people. With a surface of 8,5 million km², Brazil is approximately as big as Europe and covers half of the South American continent. The climate changes from the permanent warm, tropic north over all sub tropic variants to the moderate South. Since the 16th century - when Portuguese have begun to settle in the country - Brazil had always a magic attraction on foreigners. First there was the gold and then rubber and coffee and today it is above all the rhythm and the exotic that attracts tourists. People over there show a lot of happiness, kindness and spontaneity. The biggest country of South America is a mirror of fascinating pictures.
Explore Peru, Argentina, and Brazil through Seat-In-Coach tour. Minimum: 02 Participants, Guaranteed small groups: maximum 16 participants, and local English speaking guides.
Itinerary
Itinerary
Arrive at Lima on Friday
Arrival at the airport in Lima where you will be welcomed and transferred to the hotel.
Lima was founded in 1535 by the Spanish conqueror Francisco Pizarro as “The city of the kings” and became the capital and most important city of the Spanish Viceroyalty. Today it is still Peru’s most important city as it gives home to about 9 million people, almost 30% of the national population. The historical city centre comes with splendid colonial style architecture, ample squares as the Plaza de Armas (or Plaza Mayor) and grand churches which yielded it the declaration as UNESCO World Cultural Heritage. In its modern quarters such as Miraflores and San Isidro you can find present day architecture, rich entertainment possibilities and a great number of first class hotels and restaurants. Peruvian cuisine is excellent and gets more and more famous in the world and Peruvians are extremely proud of their typical dishes.
Comfort Class: Overnight at Hotel Holiday Inn (Standard Room) 4* or similar
Deluxe Class: Overnight at Hotel Iberostar (Deluxe Room) 5* or similar
- Meals: None
- Transfer airport – hotel
Explore the City of Lima
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Meals: Breakfast
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City Tour including San Francisco monastery and Larco Museum (4h)
Today you will explore the city on a sightseeing tour through Lima. The Plaza de Armas with the beautiful buildings of the government Palace, the Town Hall, the Palace of the Archbishop and the Cathedral are still the most important places in town. After that you will visit the beautiful San Francisco Monastery which displays the largest collection of religious art in America. The highlight of this convent is the visit of the underground vaults known as “Catacumbas” or Catacombs.
Proceed through the modern districts of San Isidro and Miraflores and to the Coastline enjoying the view over the beaches of Lima and the Pacific Ocean.
Afterwards enjoy a guided visit of one of the Lima’s most noted museums, the Larco Museum which houses the world’s largest private collection of Peruvian pre-Columbian Art. Mr. Rafael Larco Hoyle founded the museum on July 28, 1926, in the Chiclin sugar estate in Trujillo, naming it as his father as an expression of filial homage. In 1958 he moved the collection to Lima, installing the Museum in a Colonial house in the district of Pueblo Libre, where it currently functions. This locale was adapted to the characteristics style of the 18th century Colonial houses from Trujillo. The approximate 45,000 objects of the collection have been exhibited to the public in the Permanent Hall, Jewellery Vault and the Classified Storage Area ever since.
The Halls of the Larco Museum are organized by subjects. The Metals, Ceramics, the Stones, the Culture, the Great Jewellery Vault and Textile Halls emphasize the technological aspects by Pre-Columbian cultures. Finally the World’s unique Erotic Hall gives us a glimpse of the fascinating sexual life of ancient Peruvians.
In the afternoon the following optional tour can be booked:
Optional: Visit of Waterpark and dinner (4h)
You will be picked up at the hotel and driven to the city center. You will visit the Parque de la Exposición, one of the biggest waterparks that exists within a city. There you can marvel at different shapes of fountains illuminated with different colors. The highlight of each evening is the music show at the biggest fountain with the water dancing at the rhythm of the tunes.
After the show you will stop at a famous restaurant in Barranco to enjoy a buffet dinner and a spectacular show of traditional folk dances from the Coast, Sierras and Jungle of Peru.
**Remark: Visit of the Waterpark is only possible from Tuesday to Sunday. The tour can also be booked on regular seat-in-basis (shared with other international travelers)
Comfort Class: Overnight at Hotel Holiday Inn (Standard Room) 4* or similar
Deluxe Class: Overnight at Hotel Iberostar (Deluxe Room) 5* or similar
Visit the Chinchero community and its Sunday Market
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
- Transfer from hotel to airport
- Flight from Lima to Cusco (not included)
- Transfer from Cusco Airport to Yucay Hotel, including visit of the Chinchero community and the Chinchero market en route
Transfer to the airport for the flight to Cusco. Upon arrival you will start the tour with a visit to Chinchero community located 28 km away from Cusco. Here are the remains of what was the Royal hacienda of Tupac Inca Yupanqui, as well as beautiful colonial temples built on Inca’s foundations. However, its main attraction is its Sunday market originally dedicated to the people of the valley to barter their products. This colourful and lively market still fascinates people with its variety of handicrafts and textiles made in true pre-Columbian style.
Then you will be transferred to “El Mirador de Racchi” where you will have a splendid view of the Sacred Valley. Afterwards you will enjoy a typical lunch, followed by the transfer to your hotel.
Comfort Class: Overnight at Hotel Sonesta Cusco Standard (Standard Room) 4* or similar
Deluxe Class: Overnight at Hotel Libertador Palacio del Inca Luxury (Classic Room) 5* or similar
Get in touch with the wonders of Nature
- Meals: Breakfast
- Half day excursion to the Ollantaytambo Ruins (4h)
For the morning program, the following tours are optional:
Optional: Moray and Maras (4h)
The excursion starts with the visit to Moray, a little Andean community which is famous for its embedded amphitheater, formed by four circular terraces which seem to disappear into the interior of the Puna, like an artificial crater. Evidences seem to suggest that Moray was an important Inca agricultural research center. Finally, you will be transferred to visit the Salt Mines of Maras. With the salt which is tapped by exposing salt water that bubbles to the surface from a spring called Qoripujio in men-made wells to the sun, people earn their living. The view of this complex of nearly 3,000 wells is spectacular. The local people demonstrate the ancient techniques to visitors, even allowing you to participate.
**Remarks: Visits are not recommended during the rainy season (November to April)
Optional: Trekking to the terraces of Yucay (1h)
An easy and relaxing hike to enjoy nature. Behind the Plaza of Yucay you will see an impressive group of terraces that follow the outline of the mountain and are still in use by the locals.
The trail will take you to witness also the old Inca´s aqueducts used for the irrigation of the agricultural terraces.
In the afternoon, a visit to Ollantaytambo, a typical Inca community, is included. Towering above the town of Ollantaytambo we will find the Inca fortress of Ollantaytambo. Steep stone terraces rising from the edge of town lead up to the fortress ruins at the top of the hill. A stone stairway leads up through the terrace walls, allowing visitors to step out on them. One of the best-preserved areas lies north of the Hanan Huacaypata square: an area of 15 blocks of houses built on top of carved stone walls.
Accommodation in Sacred Valley
Comfort Class: Overnight at Casa Andina Premium Valle (Superior Room) 4* or similar
Deluxe Class: Overnight at Hotel Tambo del Inca Luxury Collection (Deluxe Room) 5* or similar
A full day tour to Machu Picchu
- Meals: Breakfast
- Full day tour to Machu Picchu
Transfer by bus to the train station of Ollantaytambo where the tour starts by train that goes through the fertile plain of the Urubamba Valley and on to Aguas Calientes. From there, small busses drive up the steep mountain to the ruin town.
Machu Picchu is called the Lost City of the Incas. This cultural heritage of mankind is a beautifully located impressive stone city constructed with a technique incredible for its era and even for present times. Stone upon stone, fitted together perfectly without any cement, with impressive delicacy, exquisite detail and discrimination worthy of the world’s greatest palaces. There are many theories about Machu Picchu, but one thing is for sure - it is one of the most impressive sites in the world.
Enjoy a guided visit of around 2 hours of the ruins and return by bus and train to Ollantaytambo station. Transfer to your hotel in Cusco.
Cusco is South America's archaeological capital and oldest continuously inhabited city is now one of Peru’ s most important and most frequented tourist attractions. Nevertheless, it is still remaining its vivid legacy as the hub of the Inca Empire: Quechua-speaking Inca descendants can still be found multitudinously in the centuries-old stone-walled city streets.
Cusco also boasts magnificent repositories of colonial art – fine examples can be found in the Cathedral and Museum of Archaeology.
Comfort Class: Overnight at Hotel Sonesta Cusco Standard (Standard Room) 4* or similar
Deluxe Class: Overnight at Hotel Libertador Palacio del Inca Luxury (Classic Room) 5* or similar
Explore the City of Cusco and its Ruins
- Meals: Breakfast
- Half day city tour and visit of the ruins
- Afternoon at free leisure
Today you will start for a half day city tour. It will be shown the exact centre of the Incan Empire, the Plaza de Armas. There, one can find the cathedral built on the ruins of the ancient Inca Palace. The cathedral borders on other churches on both sides. Next stop will be the old town with its magnificent renovated colonial buildings; some of them are being used as hotels.
Proceed to Sacsayhuaman, a ruin site located approx. 3km above Cusco. Sacsayhuaman also offers a fabulous view over the city. Afterwards visit the surrounding ruins.
**Remark: To protect the historic center of Cusco, vehicles are no longer allowed in the main square.
The afternoon is free at leisure.
Comfort Class: Overnight at Hotel Sonesta Cusco Standard (Standard Room) 4* or similar
Deluxe Class: Overnight at Hotel Libertador Palacio del Inca Luxury (Classic Room) 5* or similar
Visit the Peruvian Highlands
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
- Overland transfer Cusco/Puno – On shared basis
A full day bus tour from Cusco to Puno leads through the Peruvian highland along snow-covered peaks of the Andes, small villages and reaches its highest point in La Raya at 4.300m above sea level. On route you will visit the town of Andahuaylillas, the ruins of Racchi and the small town of Pucara. Lunch in a typical restaurant en route is included.
Upon arrival in Puno transfer to your hotel.
**Remark: The full day transfer is shared with international travelers and accompanied by a bilingual English/Spanish speaking guide.
Puno. The beauty and charm of Puno town is made up by its habitants’ kind personality and by its mixture of typical Andean architecture that is to be found all way down from the sides of the hills until the bank of the Titicaca Lake. Its archaeological, cultural and architectural variety and richness owes Puno to the fact that it once has been inhabited by three different civilizations on the banks of the Titicaca Lake: Aymara, Quechua and Spanish. This multicultural origin has created a mestizo race that is also found in their artistic and cultural expression and especially in an incomparable folklore which is second to none and has made Puno the “Folklore Capital of Peru”. But the main attraction of Puno is the Titicaca Lake, a must for any visitor. The Sacred Lake of the Incas is one of the most enigmatic places in the world. It is the highest navigable lake and combines beautiful sights, culture and history.
Comfort Class: Overnight at Hotel Sonesta (Standard Room) 4* or similar
Deluxe class: Overnight at Hotel GHL LAGO TITICACA (Premium Sunrise) 5* or similar
Experience the culture of Taquile
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Box dinner
- Full day excursion Uros & Taquile including lunch – On shared basis
- Transfer to Juliaca airport
- Flight from Juliaca to Lima (not included)
- Transfer from airport to hotel
In the morning, you will be picked up from your hotel and transferred to Puno’s dock where you will depart towards the Uros Islands on Titicaca Lake. The Uros are 40 small floating islands made of packed totora (reed), located within the Titicaca National Reserve. Here the inhabitants of the lake, the Uros, live just as their ancestors did, maintaining their customs and idiosyncrasies.
After visiting the Uros Islands we will continue by boat to Taquile Island. There are no roads or electricity in Taquile and the locals have maintained their traditions and culture and many still wear traditional dresses. The Taquileños are known for their high-quality handicrafts, especially for the knitting, which is exclusively performed by males. In the main square there is a cooperative shop, selling woollen goods and hand-woven items, as well as a small church.
A typical lunch at Taquile Island is included.
**Remark: The excursion is shared with international travelers and accompanied by an English-speaking guide.
Transfer from the hotel to the airport of Juliaca. A box dinner will be provided during the transfer. Flight to Lima and upon arrival transfer to the hotel. Overnight in Lima.
Comfort Class: Overnight at Hotel Holiday Inn (Standard Room) 4* or similar
Deluxe Class: Overnight at Hotel Iberostar (Deluxe Room) 5* or similar
Travel to Iguazu
- Meals: Breakfast
- Transfer hotel – airport
- Flight Lima – Iguazu (not included)
- Transfer airport – hotel
Transfer from the hotel to the airport of Lima. Flight to Iguazu and transfer to the hotel.
Iguazu is one of the biggest wonders of nature in South America: located amidst a sub-tropical forest in the triangle of Argentina, Paraguay and Brazil, a gigantic row of waterfalls goes down into the River Iguazu.
Comfort Class: Overnight at Vivaz Cataratas (Garden Room) 4* or similar
Deluxe Class: Overnight at Belmond Cataratas (Superior Room) 5* or similar
A Day in the Brazilian and Argentinean Falls
- Meals: Breakfast
- Visit of the Brazilian and Argentinean side of the falls
You will leave your hotel on the Brazilian side by motor coach and cross the Iguazu National Park towards the Brazilian Falls. You walk along the paths following the cascades and then along the catwalk which leads you very close to the bottom of the Devil’s Throat. You will enjoy magnificent views. Afterwards you take an elevator to go up back to the road, and there you will board the motor coach which will take you to the Argentinean side of the falls.
You will make a short stop at the Visitor’s Center and proceed from there along the Inferior Circuit, the down-river falls, to the Superior Circuit, the up-river cascades. The Ecological Jungle Train leads you to the most impressive observation point of the falls – The Devil´s Throat. After visit transfer to the hotel on the Brazilian side of the falls.
Comfort Class: Overnight at Vivaz Cataratas (Garden Room) 4* or similar
Deluxe Class: Overnight at Belmond Cataratas (Superior Room) 5* or similar
Bask in the culture and beauty of Buenos Aires
- Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
- Transfer from hotel to airport
- Flight Iguazu to Buenos Aires (not included)
- Transfer from Airport to hotel
- Tango Show at La Ventana & dinner – On shared basis
Transfer from the hotel to the airport for the flight to Buenos Aires. Arrival in Buenos Aires and transfer to the hotel.
Buenos Aires is not only the capital of Argentina; it is also one of the 10 most important metropolises in the world and the center of the political, economic and intellectual life of the country. This cosmopolitan city - with great European cultural influence - displays a refined taste in its cooking, in its ”Boutiques” and in the elegance of its inhabitants.
Almost 12 million people live there and can enjoy the plentiful night life visiting ”tango” bars, cabarets, discotheques, restaurants or eternally open bars. During the day, a wide variety of attractions is offered: museums, art galleries, tasteful shops, fascinating antiques, large green areas, parks, wide tree lined boulevards, clubs and sporting events. The Italian-Spanish descent of the inhabitants has formed this modern metropolis. Feel the flair, above all in the Italian old quarter La Boca and in the wide streets with cafes from the turn of the century. At the Plaza de Mayo, in the political center of town, is the starting point of this tour through this exciting capital. The widest street of the world, the very famous opera house and also the shopping street Florida make Buenos Aires unforgettable.
Afterwards you will be taken to the tango house La Ventana, because visiting a Tango Show is a MUST when you are in Buenos Aires! La Ventana is one of the most authentic tango houses and is located in the San Telmo neighborhood, the heart of the tango scene in Buenos Aires.
The Tango tradition started at the end of the last century, developing from a mixture of various rhythms, which were originally danced in the poorer quarters. In the beginning Tango was only danced by men, accompanied by flutes, violins and guitars. The flutes were later replaced by the "Bandoneón" (a type of accordion), which gave the tango its distinctive flavor.
During the excursion you can opt between a tango lesson with specialized teachers or a wine tasting session of different Argentinean wines.
Afterwards you will enjoy dinner (which includes three courses and non-alcoholic beverages as well as half a bottle of wine or two glasses of beer per person) and a tango show.
After the tango show return back to the hotel. Arrival at the hotel around midnight.
**Remarks: The excursion is shared with international travelers. The transfers hotel-tango house and take place with other international travelers from different hotels and Spanish speaking driver. The tango lesson/wine tasting session is bilingual (Spanish/English)
Comfort Class: Overnight at Pestana (Standard Room) 4* or similar
Deluxe Class: Overnight at Libertador (Standard Room) 5* or similar
A closer look at Buenos Aires
- Meals: Breakfast
- Half day city tour (3h)
During the city tour you will see the Plaza de Mayo, with the Casa Rosada (the pink house), seat of the government, the Cabildo (town hall) and the Metropolitan Cathedral, home of the Archbishop of Buenos Aires. The tour goes then onto the district San Telmo. Until 1888 this part of the city was a river port, today San Telmo is one of the most modern and desired places to live in Buenos Aires. The worker district La Boca is famous for its colorful tin-houses and its history as living district of Italian seamen and dock workers in the 19th century. The Barrio Norte, also called Recoleta, is the quarter of the rich of Buenos Aires. On the cemetery of Recoleta one will find the grave of Eva Duarte who became famous as Evita Perón. Continue along the widest avenue in the world, the Avenida 9 de Julio, and continue to the Plaza Lavalle with the Federal Court of Justice and the Teatro Colón. Return to the hotel.
Comfort Class: Overnight at Pestana (Standard Room) 4* or similar
Deluxe Class: Overnight at Libertador (Standard Room) 5* or similar
Travel to Rio De Janeiro
- Meals: Breakfast
- Transfer from hotel to airport
- Flight from Buenos Aires to Rio de Janeiro (not included)
- Transfer from airport to hotel
Transfer from the hotel to the airport for the flight to Rio de Janeiro. Arrival in Rio and transfer to the hotel.
Rio de Janeiro was founded in 1556, the city of St. Sebastian of Rio de Janeiro became the capital of the Colony of Brazil in 1776. In 1808 the Portuguese royal family fled Napoleon and settled in Rio. This brought a surge of progress and the city became the main cultural, political and economic centre of the Portuguese empire. In 1889, when the republic was proclaimed, Rio was confirmed as the country's capital, which it remained until 1960, when the construction of the new capital, Brasilia, was founded. Rio is situated in a 15-mile-strip of land, wedged between mountains and sea. There are some thirty miles separating downtown Flamengo, from far-flung Recreio, bordered on one side by the blue sea, on the other by verdant hills. Between them lies a colourful state of mind called CARIOCA, with almost 8 million locals who samba their way through life, relaxed and high-spirited. That is just the way it should be in Rio, surrounded by natural beauty on all sides, with Christ the Redeemer perched on top of Corcovado blessing the city and Sugar Loaf, one of the most famous postcards of our country.
Comfort Class: Overnight at Windor Leme (Superior Room)4* or similar
Deluxe Class: Overnight at Fairmont Rio (City View Room)5* or similar
Exploring the Landscapes and Beaches of Rio
- Meals: Breakfast
- Full Day City Tour including Sugar Loaf & Corcovado (approx. 8 hours)
Leaving the hotel and proceeding as far as Cosme Velho Station to board a cog-train(*) for the ride through Tijuca Forest up Corcovado Mountain at 748m (2.454 ft) high. The train ride takes 20 minutes and is a wonderful opportunity for a closer look at the forest’s lush tropical vegetation and to enjoy scenic landscapes of the beaches and city. Disembarking at the top of Corcovado and then proceeding up the steps that lead to the top lookout where the towering statue of Christ the Redeemer stands. After appreciating the breathtaking view unfolding below, passengers will descend by train. The tour proceeds passing by Rio’s world-famous beaches as far as Urca District to board a cable car for a two-staged ascent up Sugar Loaf Mountain at 390m (1.280 ft) high. Then coming down and proceeding along Guanabara Bay and Flamengo Park as far as downtown.
Visit downtown area, passing by the financial and business centre and by other attractions such as the Candelaria Church, Saint Sebastian Cathedral, Lapa Arches, Municipal Theatre, National Library, Fine Arts Museum, and by the Sambadrome, site of Rio’s famous Carnival parade.
**Remark: (*) In the unusual case that the train does not operate, the drive will instead take place with vans certified by the city’s administration from/to the Largo do Machado parking.
Optional: Rio by night – Show in the evening
Visit a folklore and Carnival show featuring skilled dancers, entertainers, samba bands and wonderful costumes in a wonderful display of Brazilian folklore and Carnival.
Comfort Class: Overnight at Windor Leme (Superior Room)4* or similar
Deluxe Class: Overnight at Fairmont Rio (City View Room)5* or similar
Your Tour ends
- Meals: Breakfast
- Transfer from hotel to airport
From the hotel, transfer to the airport for your international flight back home (international flight not included).
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Terms & Conditions
General Conditions:
1. Departure is guaranteed with a minimum of 02 participants. The operation of the tour can only be guaranteed by the end of the free cancellation deadline of the land services, which is 40 days prior to departure (release).
2. The transfers on arrival and departure day are included in the roundtrip rate from 02 persons on; in case 01 pax arrives/departs separately, surcharges for extra transfers will apply.
3. All transfers and excursions are on seat-in-service and include local English speaking guides (changing in each area), except of the following non-exclusive services:
- Day 07: Transfer Cusco/Puno is on regular seat-in basis.
- Day 08: Excursion Uros & Taquile on regular seat-in basis.
- Day 11: Tango Show at La Ventana on regular seat-in basis. Transfers with Spanish speaking driver. Tango lesson/wine tasting session is bilingual (Spanish/English).
Transfers and excursions are provided together for middle and comfort class passengers.
4. The small group guarantee of max. 16 participants cannot be ensured for services on regular seat-in-basis (non-exclusive services).
5. Cancellation Policy:
- Until 40 days prior departure no cancellation fee
- From 39 until 20 days prior departure maximum 50% cancellation fee
- From 19 - 1 days prior departure maximum 80% cancellation fee
- On arrival day 95% cancellation fee
Cancellation fees for flights are subject to separate cancellation conditions depending on the airline. For some airlines cancellation fees will apply already 60 days before arrival.
6. In case of early transfers breakfast in the hotel cannot be guaranteed. If a dinner is included in the program it cannot be guaranteed in case of unforeseen late arrivals.
7. Palace Tours is not responsible for any belongings of the passengers carried during any services rendered by Palace Tours, such as transfers or tours.
8. Bordering the train to/from Machu Picchu /Aguas Calientes the passport or copy has to be shown.
9. For the train ride to/from Machu Picchu /Aguas Calientes only one 5 kg piece of hand luggage is allowed. For the visit of Machu Picchu we recommend good shoes, the trail is without handrail and could be slippery. Walking sticks need to have a rubbery end in order to be permitted inside the Sanctuary.
10. For entering Machu Picchu Sanctuary, it is not allowed to bring glass, plastic bottles or food. Large backpacks (more than 20 litre volume) have to be stored at an extra cost at the storage by the entrance.
11. For groups travelling through Cusco please note that due to regulations in order to protect the historic buildings and streets, certain larger vehicle sizes are not allowed in some central areas of the city. This implies that that various parts of the city tour will be done walking, and in order to approach hotels groups will be split up temporarily in smaller vehicles, and some vehicles will be travelling for a short period of time without an assistant (driver only).
12. We hold an allotment for the needed internal flights and can provide the booking accordingly. In this case, we will issue the tickets and invoice the tour operator accordingly. In case the tour operator books the internal flights themselves, we inform the correspondent flight numbers to be booked. With this, we can ensure that the whole group will travel together on the same flights.
13. Our prices include taxes, entrance fees, tax & service charge in the hotels and the obligatory luggage fees at the airports and in the hotels. Meals are included as and when mentioned in our program (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner).
14. Room Tax at the hotel in Brazil is not included in our quotes. This tax is an optional payment and passengers will be instructed locally that its payment is not mandatory.
15. Our prices do not include: airport taxes, airfares, personal expenses, extras in the hotels and tips.
16. We have the right to sell this tour to other clients without any exception.
17. The above mentioned rates for pre- and post-nights at the group hotels are subject to availability and valid for max. 3 nights. From the 4th night on, a higher rate could apply.
18. Optional tours can be pre-booked through palace tours or in cash on the spot. Credit cards may not be accepted on the spot reservations.
19. Flights not booked via Palace Tours can only be reconfirmed by Palace Tours with the correct and complete file key of your booking.
20. For group flight reservations in general, no seat assignments can be made in advance so that preferred seating cannot be guaranteed. Groups are checked in at the airport, when the seats are distributed by the airlines.
21. A Complete Passenger List with details including full name, passport number and validity date, Nationality, date of birth and international ticket number is required, 8 weeks prior to arrival.
22. Rates for hotel services in Peru are based on bookings made by non-resident foreign visitors who stay in Peru for periods of sixty days or less. For nationals or foreigner resident in this country rates are not valid and a surcharge of 18% local VAT tax applies on all hotel services. This surcharge also applies in case the booking is based on one foreign passenger and one Peruvian passenger sharing the same room. At check-in at every hotel in Peru a copy of the passport and also from the migration card will be made. This procedure is necessary for the exoneration of this tax.
Since December 2016, the migration card (TAM) is electronic only and printed upon arrival ONLY on request. Kindly let the guests know to request their printed migration card (TAM) in order to present it during check-in at the hotels. Also, double check your passport has been properly stamped. A secondary procedure is in place in case the guest fails to present the TAM at the hotel.
Important: Cancellation charges for hotel services may increase to 118% of the sales rate in case of no-show or last-minute cancellation. In case the requirements are not met by the guests, the 18% local VAT tax will be charged directly to them.
23. Rates for accommodation services in Argentina are based on bookings made by non-resident foreign visitors. For nationals or foreign residents in Argentina, rates are not valid and a surcharge of 21% local tax applies on all hotel services. We require the complete information (name and surname, nationality, country of residence, passport number) on behalf of each passenger at the time of placing a firm booking (FITs) or at the time of confirming the final allotment of a group booking or series (“final rooming list”). In some cases, we may require you to send us a copy of the passports of each passenger.
Important: Cancellation charges for hotel services may increase to 121% of the sales rate in case of no-show or last-minute cancellation. In such cases the 21% local tax (IVA), which are refunded to tourists with foreign residency, will be charged in addition to our quoted hotel rates.
24. Please inquire at the competent authorities about the actual entry permit, validity of passports and the vaccination regulations.
25. Our general conditions apply.
26. Palace Tours' liability will be limited to the reimbursement of services supplied for failure of services contracted by us. Palace Tours cannot be held liable for any injury, loss, accident, delay or irregularity occasioned by air-carriers or third-party suppliers and by natural phenomena, sickness, war, quarantine, strike, or any other kind of force major or by attendance to Federal Police, customs and Health Authorities regulations.
Conditions of Payment:
Unless otherwise agreed, the full payment is due 40 days prior to arrival.
Inclusions & Exclusions
Included:
Accommodation
Transfers and tours are quoted on a private basis
Meals mentioned above on the itinerary
Entrance in Cusco and Sacred Valley
Round trip train tickets to/from Machu Picchu
Bus Ticket Machu Picchu / Aguas Calientes
Entrance to Machu Picchu
Sightseeing Tours according to the program (except optionals)
Frequently Asked Questions & Tips
The tour lasts 15 days and 14 nights. It begins with arrival in Lima on a Friday and ends on day 15 with a transfer from your Rio de Janeiro hotel to the airport for your international flight home.
The route runs Lima, the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, Cusco, an overland journey to Puno and Lake Titicaca, then back to Lima, on to Iguazu Falls, Buenos Aires and finally Rio de Janeiro. It combines Inca heritage, the high Andes, one of the world's great waterfalls and two of South America's most famous cities.
The tour starts on a Friday with your arrival in Lima. This timing means that on day 3, a Sunday, you can visit the colourful Sunday market at Chinchero on the way from Cusco airport to the Sacred Valley.
The tour needs a minimum of 2 participants and is guaranteed as a small group with a maximum of 16 participants. Local English-speaking guides lead the sightseeing. Some sections, such as the Cusco to Puno transfer and the Lake Titicaca excursion, are shared with other international travellers.
On day 5 you transfer to Ollantaytambo station and take the train through the Urubamba Valley to Aguas Calientes, then a bus up to the site. The round-trip train tickets, the Aguas Calientes bus ticket and the entrance to Machu Picchu are all included in the tour.
Machu Picchu is known as the Lost City of the Incas, a site the Spanish conquerors never found. It is a beautifully located stone city whose blocks fit together perfectly without cement, with a precision that still impresses today. It is a highlight of the tour and one of the most famous sites in the Americas.
Day 3 visits the Chinchero community and market en route to the Sacred Valley, and day 4 includes a half-day excursion to the Ollantaytambo ruins, with Moray and Maras available as an optional tour. Day 6 is a half-day Cusco city tour covering the Plaza de Armas, the cathedral and the ruins of Sacsayhuaman above the city.
Much of the Peru section is at high altitude. The Cusco to Puno journey crosses La Raya pass at about 4,300 metres above sea level, and Cusco and Puno are both high Andean cities. Travellers with heart or breathing conditions should check with their doctor before booking, and everyone should take the first days at an easy pace.
Day 7 is a full-day shared bus journey through the Peruvian highlands, past snow-covered Andean peaks and small villages. Stops include Andahuaylillas, the ruins of Raqchi and the town of Pucara, with lunch in a typical restaurant included. A bilingual English and Spanish guide accompanies the transfer.
On day 8 a shared boat excursion visits the Uros, around 40 small floating islands made of totora reed where families live much as their ancestors did, then continues to Taquile Island. Lunch is included. In the evening you transfer to Juliaca airport for the flight to Lima, with a box dinner provided.
Yes. On day 10 you visit the Brazilian side first, walking the paths and catwalk close to the Devil's Throat, then cross to the Argentinean side for the Lower and Upper Circuits. Iguazu sits in subtropical forest where Argentina, Paraguay and Brazil meet.
None of the flights are included. You will need flights from Lima to Cusco, Juliaca to Lima, Lima to Iguazu, Iguazu to Buenos Aires and Buenos Aires to Rio de Janeiro, as well as your international flights. Airport transfers around each flight are part of the itinerary, and a specialist can help you plan the flights.
The price includes accommodation, the transfers and sightseeing tours in the programme (except optional tours), the meals listed on each day, entrance fees in Cusco and the Sacred Valley, round-trip train tickets to Machu Picchu, the Machu Picchu bus ticket and the Machu Picchu entrance. Flights, optional tours and personal expenses are not included.
On day 11 you arrive in Buenos Aires and enjoy dinner and a tango show at La Ventana on a shared basis. Day 12 is a three-hour city tour covering Plaza de Mayo with the Casa Rosada, the Cabildo and the Metropolitan Cathedral, the San Telmo district, colourful La Boca and the elegant Recoleta quarter.
You fly to Rio on day 13, and day 14 is a full-day city tour of about eight hours including Sugar Loaf and Corcovado. A cog train climbs through the Tijuca Forest to the Christ the Redeemer statue at 748 metres, with sweeping views over the beaches and the city.
The tour lists Middle and Comfort classes, which differ in hotel category and room type throughout the trip. Hotels are confirmed as named or similar, and your travel specialist will tell you exactly which properties apply to your chosen class and travel dates.
A 25% deposit secures your place on the Best of South America tour. The balance is due 65 days before departure, so bookings made within 65 days of travel are normally paid in full at the time of booking.
Children can join, with two child price bands based on age on the day of departure: under 5, and from 5 to under 12. From age 12 travellers pay the adult rate. Given the high-altitude days in Peru, please discuss younger children's needs with a travel specialist before booking.
No fixed departures are currently listed on this page, so the tour is quoted on request for your preferred Friday start date. Prices are per person sharing in USD, and single occupancy is available on request with a supplement. Optional pre-tours in Peru and post-tours in Brazil can also be added.
Email travel@palacetours.com, call 786-408-0610, or message us on WhatsApp at https://wa.me/17864080610, answered by a travel specialist or our AI assistant. Any departure listed on this page can be booked directly online, and if none suits you, the team will quote your preferred dates.
SAT recommends the following individual pre-stay tours:
- 3 days/2 nights North of Peru
- 3 days/2 nights Peru’s South Coast - Paracas, Nazca
- 4 days/3 nights or 3 days/2 nights Amazon Lodge / Iquitos, Peru
SAT recommends the following individual post-tours:
- Extension Rio de Janeiro
- Beach extension Buzios
- 3 days / 2 nights or 4 days / 3 nights Manaus Amazon Ecopark Lodge
- 4 days / 3 nights Pantanal Araras Eco Lodge
- 4 days / 3 nights Recife
- 3 days / 2 nights Brasilia
- 4 days / 3 nights Florianopolis
- 5 days / 4 nights Chapada da Diamantina
In addition to this we offer customized extensions in all regions upon request.
Media Gallery
Plaza De Armas of Lima
A view of Brazil's Christ the Redeemer Statue
Machu Picchu
Sugar Loaf Mountain of Rio De Janeiro
Plaza Del Congreso in Buenos Aires
Iguazu Falls
Plaza De Armas in Cusco City
A view of Titicaca lake from Taquile Island
Ollantaytambo Ruins
La Boca
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