South America · 15 days
Peru, Brazil & Argentina: Icons in Depth
Follow the story of the Andes from Lima and the Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu, then continue to Rio, both sides of Iguazú Falls, and the culture and rhythm of Buenos Aires.
Follow the story of the Andes from Lima and the Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu, then continue to Rio, both sides of Iguazú Falls, and the culture and rhythm of Buenos Aires.
- Duration
- 15 days
- Travel style
- Private & small-group
- Pace
- Moderate, multi-country
Why we designed it this way
This is an icons journey, but it is structured to explain why each icon matters.
The Sacred Valley comes before Cusco to create a gentler altitude transition, and both sides of Iguazú are included because they offer fundamentally different perspectives.
For travelers in their 50s and 60s, the route balances depth with the realities of several flights and border crossings.
Who this trip is for
First-time South America travelers who want the continent’s defining icons, but with deeper cultural context, thoughtful altitude planning, and more than a quick photo stop.
Signature highlights
- Lima’s pre-Columbian and colonial heritage
- A Sacred Valley-first approach to altitude
- In-depth Machu Picchu and Cusco interpretation
- Rio from Corcovado and Sugarloaf Mountain
- Both sides of Iguazú Falls and Buenos Aires culture
Journey at a glance
- Day 1
Depart for Peru
Begin the international journey to Lima.
- Day 2
Arrive in Lima
Settle in and begin with Lima’s Pacific setting, colonial history and pre-Columbian culture.
- Day 3
Lima to the Sacred Valley
Continue Lima sightseeing, fly to Cusco and descend directly to the lower Sacred Valley.
- Day 4
Sacred Valley
Explore Inca agricultural and cultural sites, then take the train toward Machu Picchu.
- Day 5
Machu Picchu
Experience Machu Picchu with cultural interpretation before continuing toward Cusco.
- Day 6
Cusco
Discover the imperial capital, its Inca foundations, colonial layers and regional traditions.
- Day 7
Cusco to Rio
Complete the Peru chapter and fly onward to Brazil.
- Day 8
Rio & Corcovado
See Rio from Christ the Redeemer and begin exploring its neighborhoods and coastline.
- Day 9
Rio & Sugarloaf
Take in the 360-degree bay panorama from Sugarloaf and connect it with the city’s music and culture.
- Day 10
Rio to Iguazú
Fly to Foz do Iguaçu for the Brazilian walkways and Bird Park.
- Day 11
Argentine Falls
Cross the border for the upper and lower circuits and Devil’s Throat, then fly to Buenos Aires.
- Day 12
Buenos Aires
Explore landmark neighborhoods, architecture, art and the city’s evening tango culture.
- Day 13
Colonia, Uruguay
Take a ferry day trip to the UNESCO-listed historic quarter, or keep the day in Buenos Aires.
- Day 14
Tigre Delta
See the river communities north of the capital and enjoy a final Buenos Aires afternoon.
- Day 15
Depart Buenos Aires
Conclude the journey and transfer for onward travel.
Trip FAQ
How does the route manage altitude in Peru?+
Instead of sleeping in high-altitude Cusco immediately after landing, the working route descends to the Sacred Valley first. This creates a more gradual introduction before Machu Picchu and Cusco, though altitude can affect anyone.
Why visit both sides of Iguazú Falls?+
The Brazilian side offers the great panorama, while the Argentine side brings you closer through a wider trail system and the approach to Devil’s Throat. Together they create a more complete experience.
Is Uruguay included?+
A day trip by ferry to Colonia del Sacramento can be included. It can also be exchanged for additional time in Buenos Aires, depending on border logistics and traveler preference.
Is this trip physically demanding?+
The overall pace is moderate, but it combines altitude, airports, border procedures, urban walking and waterfall trails. The final plan should reflect mobility, stamina and desired rest time.
Are the internal flights fixed?+
No. The route depends on several internal flights, and exact schedules can change. Confirmed air segments and the resulting day order appear only in the final proposal.
What entry and safety planning is required?+
Passport-based entry rules can differ across Peru, Brazil, Argentina and Uruguay. We review current requirements and border logistics before confirmation and strongly recommend insurance that covers medical care, delays and missed connections.
Good to know This route combines altitude, several flights and border crossings. The sequence is customized around air schedules, entry requirements and the travelers’ preferred pace.
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