2025 South America Explorer Tour with optional Galapagos Cruise

This is a remarkable tour in every respect, exploring South America – a spectacular continent like no other! Join us on this amazing tour as we witness the awe-inspiring scenery, different cultures and absorb the history of this captivating area. The itinerary is fascinating with an excellent standard of accommodation. Beginning in Rio de Janeiro, the tour includes spectacular sights such as Iguazu Falls, Buenos Aires, Uyuni Salt Flats, the Atacama Desert and so much more. An adventure not to be missed and truly a once in a lifetime tour. TOUR HIGHLIGHTS:

• Rio de Janeiro – Copacabana Beach, Corcovado and the Statue of “Christ the Redeemer” & “Sugar Loaf”
• Iguazu Falls – surely the most beautiful waterfall in the world, in a magical setting
• Buenos Aires – The ‘Paris’ of South America.
• Salta – with a unique cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and delicious traditional cuisine.
• Purmamarca, located at the base of Seven Colours Hill & Huacalera
• Uyuni Salt Flats, Bolivia – the world’s largest salt flat. It is a total of 4,086 square miles, the equivalent to almost two million football fields!
• Atacama Desert – including Salt Lake, Toconao, Tatio Geysers and an Astronomical Tour
• Santiago – Capital of Chile, including city tour and day trip to Valparaiso & Casablanca Valley

  Important Information: This tour requires a moderate-high level of fitness, due to the tour inclusions and itinerary content. There are some long, full days and you will be required to walk relatively long distances, on occasion. We will also encounter some areas of high altitude. Please enquire with our office if you have any questions in regard to your suitability.   OPTIONAL TOUR-ADD ON: 8 Day Galapagos Cruise

• For those that wish, there is the opportunity to add an 8-day Galapagos tour option.
• The “Enchanted Archipelago” is renowned as an iconic tourist destination – and with good reason. It features some of the world’s most unique and endemic wildlife species, wonderful beaches that continually rank among the world’s best. A trip to the Galapagos Islands will be the journey of your lifetime.
• Fly from Santiago to Guayaquil, Ecuador and overnight near the airport. The following day, you will fly to the Galapagos Islands and join the M/C EcoGalaxy a First-Class Catamaran, built for sailing the Galapagos Islands while preserving its fragile ecosystem. With only 8 cabins on board for a maximum of 16 guests, it is a wonderful way to travel in style! Spend 6-nights sailing, exploring and learning about the wildlife, flora and fauna, all while savouring the diversity and richness of Ecuadorian cuisine, enhanced by locally-sourced ingredients from the Galapagos Islands.
• At the conclusion of the cruise, you will fly back to Guayaquil and overnight before joining your flights home the following day.

Thursday 18 September Home – Rio De Janeiro Today we fly to Rio via Santiago, crossing the international dateline en route, arriving same day. On arrival late evening, we will be met and transferred to our hotel.   Friday 19 September Rio De Janeiro (B,D) A slightly later start today after our long journey and late arrival. Mid-morning, we join our local guide for a historical tour of Rio de Janeiro. The tour will take us through the colonial avenues, squares and back streets of the city, while our guide explains the important historical, political and social events that shaped Rio into South America’s most exciting city. Focusing on the period or architectural style, fine examples of Baroque constructions would be the ‘São Bento’ and ‘Santo Antonio’ Monasteries, which recall the times when Brazil was a colony of Portugal. The French influence can be seen from buildings that were built as early as the 19th century and examples include the Municipal Theatre and the Fine Art museum. The city’s cultural and artistic diversity is showcased on various cultural institutions such as the Cultural Centre Bank of Brasil and the Brazil-France House. Some other features of this tour are the Selaron Stairs, Lapa Arches, Metropolitan Cathedral, Candelária Church, ‘Praça XV’, ‘Arco do Teles’, Olympic Boulevard and finally the Museum of Tomorrow.   Saturday 20 September Rio De Janeiro (B,L) Today, we explore Rio’s iconic landmarks, Sugar Loaf Mountain and the Christ the Redeemer Statue. Drawing over a million visitors annually, the world-renowned Pão de Açúcar (Sugar Loaf Mountain) rises majestically from a small peninsula at the entrance of Guanabara Bay. Our journey begins with the first cable-car ride to the top of Urca Hill, standing at 215 meters above sea level, providing breathtaking views of the entire bay and its islands. From Urca Hill, a second cable car takes us to the summit of Sugar Loaf. Following lunch, we make our way to the globally acclaimed Christ the Redeemer Statue, recently elected as one of the seven modern wonders of the world. Nestled at the foot of Corcovado hill, we board a small train that transports us to the summit, where a spectacular panoramic view of Rio de Janeiro awaits. Tonight is at your leisure.   Sunday 21 September Rio de Janeiro (B,D) Today is a free day for you to relax on one of Rio’s famous beaches such as Ipanema or Copacabana, or explore the city further at your leisure. Dinner is included at the hotel this evening.   Monday 22 September Rio de Janeiro – Iguazu Falls (B, D) This morning we return to the airport and join a flight to Foz do Iguaçu International Airport. On arrival, we will be transferred to our hotel and this evening, we embark on an unforgettable evening at “The Argentine Experience” – a unique dining experience which blends exquisite food, endless boutique wine, local culture and social integration. Led by a charismatic guide, learn how to make traditional empanadas, make your own alfajores, and learn the history and etiquette of ‘mate’, Argentina’s traditional caffeine-rich infused drink.   Tuesday 23 September Iguazu Falls – Brazilian Falls & Exotic Bird Park (B,D) Today we see the falls from the Brazilian side of the border as we board buses for a tour of the park. From the Brazilian side, there are breath-taking views of the Floriana Falls, the Devil’s Gorge Canyon and the Iguazu River. Continuing on, we visit Parque das Aves, an ecological bird sanctuary, home to more than 900 birds of 150 different species. The visit allows direct contact with bird species that rarely could be seen elsewhere.   Wednesday 24 September Argentinean Side (B.D) Early this morning we visit the Iguazu Falls on the Argentinian side.  We take the Rainforest Ecological train where we enjoy panoramic views from above and below the waterfalls.  During our visit we will embark on the “Great Adventure Boat Ride” under the falls so prepare to get wet. We then visit the Devils Gorge, which is said to be one of the most spectacular falls and a major highlight of Iguazu Falls.   Thursday 25 September Iguazu – Buenos Aires (B.D) We head to Cataratas of Iguazu airport this morning and join our flight to Buenos Aires. On arrival, we are met and transferred to our hotel, with the afternoon at leisure. This evening we will be transported back in time thanks to the La Ventana tango show. Enjoy the dancers, orchestras and local singers, while dining from the impressive menu that offers both local and international cuisine as well as an extensive list of Argentinean wines.   Friday 26 September Buenos Aires (B.D) This morning we enjoy a sightseeing tour of Buenos Aires, visiting the most important highlights of the city. Beginning at Plaza de Mayo Square, we then visit Mayo Avenue. Other highlights include, Puerto Madero, Palermo, Recoleta, the colourful neighbourhood of La Boca, where tango first originated in the late 1800’s, and Recoleta Cemetery, the famous and final resting place of “Evita”.   Saturday 27 September Buenos Aires (B.D) Put your walking shoes on today as we explore the city by foot! We meet our guide and begin our tour in Recoleta neighbourhood, marvelling at classical architecture, discovering hidden gems, and exploring must-visit bars and coffee shops. We then transition to the heart of the city, Retiro, known for government buildings and rich history as one of the world’s wealthiest cities. Pause for a chat over local Patagonian ice cream or coffee before taking a taxi to the bohemian barrio of San Telmo. As the city’s oldest neighbourhood, San Telmo boasts a diverse history and multicultural charm. Explore the San Telmo market, indulge in a tasty empanada, and wander cobblestone streets. Visit an old Conventillo, explore Plaza Dorrego, and experience an authentic antiques market. Conclude the tour with a taxi ride back to Recoleta for a yerba mate demonstration and tasting – an Argentine traditional tea. After some time at leisure, we are collected from our hotel and transferred to Fogón to immerse ourselves in their Asado Experience. A closed-door dining experience awaits us that explores new ways of serving Argentine Asado classics. While seated at the bar we’ll see, feel and taste traditional and modern grill cooking techniques up close and personal as we sit with the chefs around the parrilla. Every Asado is unique but always includes the best cuts of meat available and fire roasted seasonal vegetables. The chefs have designed the tasting menu to combine new grill techniques with tried-and-true Argentine recipes that elevate the Asado to new heights. The wine pairing menu has also been designed to best enhance the flavours of the ingredients.   Sunday 28 September Buenos Aires – Salta (B.D) We transfer to the airport this morning to join our flight to Salta. Known as ”Salta la Linda” (Salta the Pretty), Salta is a provincial capital in the mountainous northwestern part of Argentina. Founded in 1582, it is known for its Spanish colonial architecture and cobblestone streets as well as its Andean heritage. On arrival, we transfer to our hotel where we stay for 2 nights.   Monday 29 September Salta (B.D) We have the morning to relax before we join our afternoon tour of the city, exploring the historical and architectural heritage. We see the main highlights of the city, including the fascinating MAAM museum. Other points of interest include, the main square, the cathedral and historic cabildo, as well as the San Francisco Church and San Bernardo convent. We return to our hotel early evening and enjoy dinner together.   Tuesday 30 September Salta – Purmamarca – Salinas Grandes – Huacalera (B.D) Today we travel to the town of Purmamarca. Located at the base of Seven Colours Hill, the village features a whitewashed adobe church and a handicraft market situated in the main square. We get a quick glimpse of the town, enjoying a walk up a rocky path behind the Seven Colours Hill before continuing to the Salinas Grandes salt flats. The drive to the Salt Flats along Ruta 52 will take us over Lipan Pass and zig zag to the white mirrored salt lakes that are surrounded by volcanoes and an endless horizon. Returning to Purmamarca, you will have the opportunity to visit the handicraft market to purchase souvenirs in the afternoon. Please note this is a full day with an an approximate driving time of 6 hours and some travel on unpaved roads. You will reach an altitude of approximately 4,300m. We overnight  in the town of Huacalera   Wednesday 01 September Huacalera – Colchani (B.L.D) Today we transfer to La Quiaca, where we will cross the border to Bolivia. We travel from Villazón to Colchani (approximately 5 hours). Along the way, explore The Valley of the Machos, nestled amidst stunning hills boasting diverse natural formations, creating a truly spectacular landscape. Finally, transfer to your hotel in Colchani at the end of the day. We stay here for 2-nights.   Thursday 02 October Colchani – Uyuni Salt Flats (B.L.D) After breakfast, we’ll set out from Colchani to witness local artisans’ traditional salt extraction methods. Then, we’ll explore a different section of the Uyuni salt flats, including a visit to Incahuasi Island, home to towering cacti up to 10 meters high! Lunch amidst the salt flats promises a unique experience. In the afternoon, our journey takes us north to the base of the majestic Tunupa volcano. We’ll visit Coquesa to see the pre-Columbian “mummies” and ensure ample time for exploring the salt flats, with our guides helping capture those iconic photos. As the day draws to a close, we’ll marvel at the sunset over Uyuni, an unforgettable moment enhanced by the interplay of colours between the sun and the salt flats – an ideal time for capturing postcard-perfect photos. As the tour concludes, we’ll be transferred back to our hotel in Colchani to unwind and enjoy a well-deserved night of rest.   Friday 03 October Colchani – Villamar (B.L) Leaving from Colchani mid morning, we’ll journey to Villamar village. Along the way, we’ll stop to visit the San Cristobal church and the charming villages of Alota and Culpina K. Our route also includes a visit to the Stone Valley, renowned for its unique rock formations sculpted by wind erosion. Continuing our adventure, we’ll explore the Catal and Vinto Lagoons, as well as another striking rock formation known as Italia. Upon reaching Villamar village, we’ll explore the area, including the fascinating cave paintings and ruins near Tomas Lakjas before we settle into our hotel for our overnight stay.   Saturday 04 October Villamar – Atacama (B.D) This morning, we’ll embark on our journey towards Laguna Colorada. Here, we’ll have the incredible opportunity to witness the renowned “James’ Flamingos,” which are truly unique in the world. Against the backdrop of eternal snows, we’ll marvel at the lake’s varying colours, culminating in its striking red hue. Our adventure continues as we make our way to Laguna Verde, passing by the awe-inspiring Geysers Sol de Mañana (Morning Sun), a site of intense volcanic activity. Along the route, we’ll also encounter the Chalviri thermal waters and Valle de Dalí (Dali’s Valley). Upon arrival at Laguna Verde, we’ll be greeted by the imposing cone of the Licancabur Volcano, soaring to an altitude of 5960 meters. Following a delicious lunch, we’ll transfer to Hito Cajón where we make our border crossing. We’ll be met by our Chilean driver and transferred to our hotel in San Pedro de Atacama. The small oasis town lies on an arid high plateau in the Andes Mountains in the heart of some of northern Chile’s most spectacular scenery. Overlooking the Licancabur Volcano, its dramatic surrounding landscape ranges from desert, salt flats, steaming geysers and hot springs to fascinating rock formations. This afternoon, we will journey across the Cordillera de la Sal (Salt Mountain Range) en route to the Valle de la Luna (Valley of the Moon), a prominent attraction in this region. Situated 19 km from San Pedro de Atacama, the valley’s terrain mirrors the surface of the moon, featuring small yet sharply crested hills sculpted by the wind. This tour is exclusively available in the afternoon, allowing the setting sun to enhance the valley’s breathtaking colours. Once the tour concludes, we will be transported back to our hotel.   Sunday 05 October Atacama – Salt Lake & Toconao (B.L.D) A full day exploring the area. We will be picked up this morning to  explore the Salar de Atacama, one of the world’s largest salt lakes and home to the most important lithium reserves globally. At Chaxa Lagoon, delight in watching various bird species, including the three types of flamingos found in Chile – Andean, Chilean, and James’. The vibrant pink hues of their feathers contrast beautifully with the deep blue Atacama sky, the towering Andean volcanoes, and the red hues of the sunset bidding us farewell before returning to San Pedro de Atacama. On the way to the Salt Lake, we make a stop in the town of Toconao. The houses in this charming village are constructed from bricks of white volcanic stone, and its warm-hearted residents are renowned for their exceptional wool knitting skills. Once the tour concludes, we will be transferred back to our hotel.   Monday 06 October Atacama – Tatio Geysers & Astronomic Tour (B.L.D) In the early morning, we’ll be collected from our hotel for a full-day tour to the Tatio Geysers. Situated 90 km northwest of San Pedro, these geysers are nestled at an altitude of 4,320 meters above sea level, earning the distinction of being the highest geothermal field globally. Witness the serene sunrise over the geysers as they erupt with water and steam, reaching heights of up to 50 meters. Surrounded by the tranquil beauty of the Andes and its natural scenery, you’ll have a peaceful and reflective experience. On the return journey to our hotel, we’ll pass through the Wetlands, where we can quietly observe guanacos, vicuñas, flamingos, and other wildlife. This evening, it is time for an extraordinary experience: Astronomy in the Desert. Recognized as one of the best places globally to observe stars, planets, and constellations, the Atacama Desert offers a night sky devoid of light pollution, complemented by high-quality telescopes that integrate local culture and indigenous perspectives. This stargazing adventure unfolds in a small private observatory, where we explore the magnificent night sky of the Atacama Desert. The experience includes observing stars, planets, and constellations with the naked eye and through professional telescopes, including a substantial 16-inch telescope. Throughout this celestial journey, we delve into the significance of the region for both modern astronomy and ancient Central Andean cultures. Witness the beauty of the Milky Way, identify the stars forming constellations, and observe the mesmerizing rotation of the sky. The experience extends to technical observations of various nebulae and star clusters through the telescope.   Tuesday 07 October Atacama – Santiago (B.D) We bid farewell to the desert and make our way to the airport to join our flight to Santiago, Chile’s capital and largest city, situated in a valley surrounded by the snow-capped mountains of the Andes and the Chilean Coastal Range. Founded in 1541, Santiago has been Chile’s capital since colonial times. It is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city and although it features many colonial buildings, it has grown into a modern metropolis and the cultural centre of the country. We check into our hotel, where we stay for 3-nights.   Wednesday 08 October Santiago (B) Today we explore the city on a half day tour. Highlights include the Plaza de Armas, the central square and the heart of the city’s colonial core. The Plaza de Armas features the beautiful 18th-century Metropolitan Cathedral, the Royal Court Palace from the early 19th century (housing the Natural History Museum), and the Central Post Office completed in 1882. Most days, you can observe the Chess Club of Chile meeting here, a great opportunity to witness locals engrossed in a game of chess. Next, venture to Cerro Santa Lucia, the hill where Santiago was founded in 1541. Now transformed into a park with fountains, stairs leading to a fort, and a panoramic viewpoint across the city, it offers a captivating experience. Upon completing our tour, we will be transported back to our hotel.   Thursday 09 October Santiago – Valparaiso & Casablanca Valley (B.D) This morning, we journey westward towards the Pacific Ocean. Our first destination is the enchanting Valparaíso, once a vital port in South America until the opening of the Panama Canal in 1914. Traces of European emigration history permeate the streets and neighbourhoods. Valparaíso, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site and hailed as the cultural capital of Chile, boasts charming, colourful houses cascading down the hills, forming a natural amphitheatre where historic port life seamlessly intertwines with cultural activities. As we stroll along the hills, we’ll uncover hidden treasures such as art galleries, cozy coffee shops, breweries, vibrant graffiti, beautiful old houses, and a variety of bars and restaurants. Our journey continues to the Casablanca Valley, renowned for its numerous wineries and towns steeped in Chilean traditions. On our return to Santiago, we’ll make a stop at one of these world-class wineries for a premium wine tasting before heading back to our hotel. We enjoy one final dinner together this evening.   Friday 10 October Santiago – Auckland (B) Sadly, our time in South America comes to an end today as we transfer to the airport in time to join our flight home. Note, departure time is just after midnight on 11 October, so you have the day in Santiago at leisure, with late-check out included at the hotel. We transfer to the airport early evening.   Sunday 12 October Arrive Auckland Arrival time is early morning.                   ADD-ON: 8 Day Galapagos Cruise   Friday 10 October Santiago – Guayaquil (B) Today, transfer to Santiago Airport and join the flight to Guayaquil, Ecuador. On arrival, you will be transferred by complimentary shuttle to Hilton Colon Guayaquil for your overnight stay. Remainder of the day at leisure.   Saturday 11 October Santiago – Galapagos (B.L.D) Take a morning flight from Guayaquil to the Galapagos. At the airport you will be met by a representative who will transfer you to your ship where you will be introduced to your crew and have a welcome lunch. In the afternoon you will be transferred to the Charles Darwin research Station. You will take a private bus to the entrance of the breeding centre where you will see tortoises and land iguanas in captivity. This centre is the main breeding site on the islands. Animals that were in danger of extinction on various islands are maintained here in captivity. Thanks to the dedicated work of several institutions, some species are being saved. This is where Lonesome George lived, the famous last survivor of the species of giant tortoise found on Pinta Island.   Sunday 12 October Galapagos Cruising – Moreno Point & Elizabeth Bay (B.L.D) We will be visiting Moreno Point this morning, where you can enjoy a relaxing hike through the rough terrain while taking in the distinctive flora and fauna of the area. Along the way, keep an eye out for the blue-footed boobies and Galápagos penguins as they carry out their daily activities, and marvel at the playful antics of the sea lions in the nearby tide pools. As you explore this unique environment, your expert guide will provide insights on the island’s history and geology, making your visit both an educational and memorable experience. In the afternoon you will arrive at Elizabeth Bay. This is one of the island’s breeding sites for penguins. Located along the west coast of Isabela, Elizabeth Point is a marine visitor site. Visit Red Mangrove Cove: Brown pelicans, flightless cormorants, spotted eagle rays, golden rays and sea lions are often seen.   Monday 13 October Galapagos Cruising – Urbina Bay & Tagus Cove (B.L.D) Urbina Bay, offers a range of exciting activities, from exploring the diverse marine life while snorkelling or scuba diving to hiking through the volcanic terrain and observing the iconic Galapagos giant tortoises in their natural habitat. The bay is also home to an abundance of land and marine iguanas, sea lions, and a variety of bird species, providing ample opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography. Tagus Cove is a must-see destination for anyone visiting the Galápagos. This historic site on Isabela Island has been used as an anchorage for over 300 years and is surrounded by breathtaking volcanic formations. Take a hike up to the ridge for a panoramic view of the cove and its picturesque surroundings. Along the way, you’ll see fascinating geological formations, including lava fields and volcanic tuff cones. Keep an eye out for the unique flora and fauna of the area, including the Galápagos hawk and Darwin’s finches.   Tuesday 14 October Galapagos Cruising – Espinoza Point & Vincente Roca Point (B.L.D) Espinoza Point, famous for the large colonies of marine iguanas and the home of the flightless cormorant, the Galapagos penguin, snakes, and more. From Espinoza Point, we can admire the beauty of Fernandina Island and its volcano, which last erupted in May of 2005. Fernandina is the only island that doesn’t have mammals, and the open areas are extremely fragile. January to June is the nesting period of the marine iguana, and as such we take great care while walking here. In the afternoon you will make your way to Vicente Roca Point. made up by two separate coves, this site is a large bay with spectacular sea life. Keep an eye out for seahorses, sea turtles, and the strange, yet fascinating, Mola-mola.   Wednesday 15 October Galapagos Cruising – Egas Port & Rabida (B.L.D) In the morning you will arrive at Egas Port. Here we find a beautiful black sand beach; to the south of the beach is Pan de Azucar Volcano, whose volcanic deposits have contributed to the formation of the black sand beach. The crater of this volcano contains a saltwater lake that dries up during hot weather. Between 1928 and 1930, explorations to develop a salt mine were carried out, but it was decided that a mine was not feasible. In the afternoon you will arrive at Rabida Island. The visitor site, located on the east coast of Rabida Island, consists of a red sand beach, a coastal lagoon behind the beach, and a loop trail approximately 1.1 km in length. The red colour of the rocks and sand on the beach is due to the interaction of the very porous volcanic material with environmental factors. Rain, saltwater and the sea breeze, act as oxidizing agents, creating the red colour. The scenery, arid zone vegetation and the presence of native and endemic species add to the beauty of this island.   Thursday 16 October Galapagos Cruising – Black Turtle Cove – Guayaquil (B) Today you will visit Black Turtle Cove. which is situated in the northern region of Santa Cruz. This bay is surrounded by mangroves and is accessible only by dinghy. The shallow cove is a safe refuge for marine life. Black-tip reef sharks, marine turtles, and a variety of rays are often spotted here. After this activity you will be transferred to the airport for your departure flight from the Galapagos. On arrival in Guayaquil, you will be transferred by complimentary shuttle to Hilton Colon Guayaquil for your overnight stay. Remainder of the day at leisure.   Friday 17 October Guayaquil – Santiago – Auckland (B) Transfer back to Guayaquil Airport late morning and check in for your flight to Auckland via Santiago.   Sunday 19 October Arrive Auckland Arrival time is early morning.