South America in a month: Machu Picchu, Iguazu Falls and beaches

Days 1 - 7: Classic Peru trip 

This classic Peru trip includes Lima, Cusco, the Sacred Valley and a visit to the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. Arrive in Lima where we’ve included a city tour to introduce the nation’s capital, its main sights and its growing food scene. Next, you’ll fly to the colonial city of Cusco for a few days exploring this city, its importance an Inca city and colonial centre, and the nearby Sacred Valley. Find out how native llamas and alpacas are used in modern life and visit the impressive Ollantaytambo fortress. Finally, you’ll arrive at Machu Picchu, with plenty of time to wander around and explore for yourself. This short trip introduces you to the capital and the Inca heart of Peru in an unforgettable way!

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Days 7 - 14: Santiago to Mendoza - a journey through the Andes

Next, you'll travel from Santiago to Mendoza on this 8-day wine tasting itinerary that takes you from the Chilean capital into Argentina's wine region. Start with a relaxed couple of days staying in a winery in the Chilean wine valleys before visiting the picturesque coastal town of Valparaiso. This pretty seaside town is known for its colourful houses and many funicular railways which link the city’s steep suburbs – perfect for a day’s exploring. Next, you'll cross over the spectacular Andes mountain range from Santiago to Mendoza in Argentina, passing through ever-changing landscapes and lush, rolling vineyard estates. During your stay in Mendoza, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about the country’s wine traditions and sample some world-class Argentinian wines, all the while enjoying your spectacular Andean surroundings.

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Days 14 - 17: Buenos Aires stopover

Carry on to the unique city of Buenos Aires! Packed to the rafters with colonial architecture, delicious steak restaurants, dance and theatre, art, bohemian districts and incredible food markets, this sprawling metropolis is home to over one-third of the country’s population yet retains a homely neighborhood feel in the barrios. Admire the colourful houses in La Boca, taste fresh pasta in San Telmo Market and stroll through the Recoleta Cemetery to find Eva Peron's tomb. It's the perfect end to your incredible adventure through Central and South America. 

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Days 17 - 20: Experience Iguazu Falls 

Visit the majestic Iguazu Falls on your way through South America with this 4-day stopover package that bases you on the Argentinian side, staying in Puerto Iguazu. With two days at the falls, you'll have the opportunity to admire the cascades from both the Argentinian and Brazilian perspectives and to explore the sizeable national park that's home to jungle creatures including plenty of monkeys and birds.

A tour to the Argentinian side takes around 6 hours, by boat and on foot, it brings you close-up to the thundering waters to admire the 275 cascades on this side. Visiting the Brazilian side is quicker, by road, and the views from this country are more panoramic - taking in the breath-taking perspective of the entire falls, from a distance. One of the highlights of the natural world, a visit to Iguazu Falls will be a highlight of your time in South America. 

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Days 20 - 28: Rio to Ilha Grande city and beach break

Experience Brazilian city life and beaches on this trip from Rio to Ilha Grande. Begin in Rio, where you'll stand atop Corcovado and Sugarloaf mountain and take in the spectacular views of this city, set amidst lush green mountains and crystal clear waters. Sip a Caipirinha while sunbathing and people-watching on some of the world’s most famous urban beaches, Copacabana and Ipanema. Listen to the intoxicating sounds of samba and get caught up in the city’s energetic pace thanks to the charisma of its people, the ‘Cariocas’. 

Only a few hours away from Rio, Paraty is a historic coastal town and offers plenty of character thanks to its cobbled streets, beautiful buildings and an eclectic mix of boutiques, cafes and restaurants. Spend your time relaxing in your ‘pousada’ (guest house) or on the local beach. Spend the last three nights in one of Brazil’s lesser-known but unique islands; Ilha Grande is reached by boat and is home to pristine beaches and lush green forests. 

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Day 29: Arrive UK