P.O. Box 741122
New Orleans, Louisiana 70174
Phone 504-398-0056
Email: ttravel@thomascruise.com
www.thomascruise.com

 

G Adventures Arrow South America Arrow 18-to-Thirtysomethings: Lima to Buenos Aires Adventure (SPMB)
18-to-Thirtysomethings: Lima to Buenos Aires Adventure (SPMB)
Countries Visited: Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Peru
Trip Style: Information Not available
Service Level: Basic
  • Excellent value, amazing prices, quality experiences
  • Simple and clean hotels, guesthouses and hostels chosen for location and character
  • Affordable public and private transport for maximum cultural interaction
  • Plenty of optional activities tailored to your interests and budget
    Physical Demands Rating: 4 - You might encounter a few high-altitude hikes or other more strenuous activities. Pro tip: Put down that pastry, buster.
    Group Size: Max 18, avg 14.
    Meals Included: 25 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 7 dinners
    Accommodations: Simple hotels (25 nts, some multi-share), overnight buses (3 nts), camping (3 nts), homestay (1 nt), basic hotels on Salt Flats excursion (2 nts, multi-share).

    Highlights
    Spot condors at Colca Canyon, conquer the Inca Trail on the way to Machu Picchu, experience traditional life on Lake Titicaca, cross the Uyuni Salt Flats on a 4x4 excursion

    Description
    South America rewards those willing to explore. Consider this epic adventure: beginning in Lima and ending in Buenos Aires, its 35-full days of fun. Youll hike the Inca Trail, cross the Salt Flats of Bolivia by 4x4, and feel like a sophisticate sipping wine in Argentina. Along the way, youll engage with local cultures with a small group of other young travellers to back you up. For those willing to invest their time, this trip offers big returns-in adventure.
  • Call 504-398-0056 for more information or to book today! Mention code 13723244
    Tour OperatorG Adventures
    Duration
    35 Days
    Escorted
    Escorted - Yes
    Itinerary
    DayDestinationDescription
    Day 1LimaDay 1 Lima
    Arrive at any time. There are no planned activities, so check into the hotel and enjoy the city. Additional Notes: Please note: hot water shortages and power outages can be fairly common in Latin America (even in upgraded hotels and private homes). We appreciate your patience and understanding that these occurrences are outside of our control. Included Activities: Arrival Day and Welcome Meeting
    Day 2ParacasDay 2 Lima/Paracas (1B)
    Savour a pisco sour while staying in Piscos neighbouring town of Paracas. Transport: Local bus (4.00 hour(s), 250km) Minibus (0.50 hour(s))
    Day 3NazcaDay 3 Paracas/Nazca (1D)
    There is time in the morning for an optional excursion to the popular Ballestas Islands, which provide an excellent chance to view a lively sea lion colony, pelicans, penguins, and other varieties of birdlife. Back on land, catch a bus south to Nazca. On the way, pass by the pleasant colonial town of Ica. Ica enjoys a dry, sunny climate year-round and is known for its huge sand dunes. Located around the nearby oasis of Huacachina, the dunes are perfect as subjects for photographs and for a favourite local past time: sandboarding. Apart from the dunes, Ica is famous for its wines and there are several wineries and distilleries in the area. Included Activities: Huacachina Winery Visit Transport: Private Vehicle (4.00 hour(s), 175km)
    Day 4ArequipaDay 4 Nazca/Arequipa
    Opt for a flight over the Nazca Lines. Overnight bus to Arequipa. Transport: Overnight bus (8.00-9.00 hours, 570km)
    Day 5ArequipaDay 5 Arequipa
    Those with an interest in history and architecture may opt to visit the Convent of Santa Catalina, which offers a brief respite from the outside world and a unique view into a bygone way of life. Other optional excursions include rafting and mountaineering. For spicy food lovers, checking out one of the "PicanterIas" is a must. Arequipa has a variety of regional food: alpaca, shrimp, pork, lots of soups, and spicy sauces.
    Day 6Colca CanyonDay 6 Arequipa/Colca Canyon (1B)
    Enjoy an overnight excursion to the impressive Colca Canyon - one of the deepest canyons in the world. Stop in fascinating villages and at "miradors" (scenic lookouts), where, with a little luck, visitors can see Andean condors soaring over the majestic Andes. Other unusual animals that can be spotted in the Andean landscape include three different species of camelids: alpaca, llama and vicuNa. Included Activities: Colca Canyon Guided Tour Transport: Private Vehicle (4.50-5.00 hours, 165km)
    Day 7ArequipaDay 7 Colca Canyon/Arequipa (1B)
    Get an early start to go on the lookout for flying condors. Travel from Chivay town to a condor viewpoint to admire these magnificent birds in the air. On the way back, stop by some local villages and viewpoints to see old terraces and sections of Colca Canyon, the deepest canyon in the world. Included Activities: Colca Canyon Guided Tour
    Day 8CuscoDay 8 Arequipa/Cusco (1B)
    In the morning head back to Arequipa and enjoy a free day. Overnight bus to Cusco. Transport: Private Van with Wi-fi (4.50-5.00 hours, 165km) Overnight bus (10.00 hour(s))
    Day 9CuscoDay 9 Cusco
    Free time to explore Cusco. Opt for a city tour or go whitewater rafting, horseback riding or mountain biking.
    Day 10CuscoDay 10 Cusco (1B)
    Enjoy another free day in Cusco.
    Day 11OllantaytamboDay 11 Cusco/Ollantaytambo (1B)
    Ollantaytambo is a major Inca ruin site and a first taste of what lies ahead. For those craving more before they head out on the Trail, opt to take a Sacred Valley tour which includes not only Ollantaytambo and the ruin site of Pisac, but also a visit to a G Adventures-supported womens weaving co-op. Transport: Private Vehicle (2.50 hour(s), 95km)
    Day 12Inca TrailDay 12 Inca Trail (1B, 1L, 1D)
    Trek through beautiful scenery, with a variety of flora that changes with the seasons, passing several smaller ruin sites like Llactapata. Additional Notes: A crew of local porters, cooks, and guides will take care of all the details for the duration of the hike. Porters carry the majority of the gear so you'll only need to carry a small daypack with water, rain gear, snacks, a camera, etc. Included Activities: Inca Trail Hike Transport: Private Vehicle (0.75 hour(s))
    Day 13Inca TrailDay 13 Inca Trail (1B, 1L, 1D)
    Start early to climb the long steep path to WarmiwaNusca, better known as Dead Woman's Pass. This is the highest point of the trek at 4,198m (13,769 ft). Most hikers reach camp by early afternoon, with ample time to rest and relax. Included Activities: Inca Trail Hike
    Day 14Inca TrailDay 14 Inca Trail (1B, 1L, 1D)
    Cross two more passes and ruins along the way. The first pass is Runquraqay at 3,950m (13,113 ft) where, on a clear day, hikers can catch a glimpse of the snow-capped Cordillera Vilcabamba. Hike through cloud forest on the gentle climb to the second pass of the day, walking through original Incan constructions. The highest point of the pass is 3,700m (12,136 ft). On a clear day, enjoy the spectacular views of the Urubamba Valley. At 3,650m (11,972 ft), reach the ruins of Phuyupatamarca, the "town above the clouds." Camp here or go another 1.5 hrs to the WiNay Wayna ruins ("forever young") located at 2,650m (8,694 ft). Included Activities: Inca Trail Hike
    Day 15CuscoDay 15 Machu Picchu/Cusco (1B)
    The final day of the hike starts pre-dawn to reach the Sun Gate before sunrise. Wake up around 03:30 and walk to the checkpoint. Catch the first views of the breathtaking ruins of Machu Picchu on a clear day. Hike down to Machu Picchu for a guided tour of the site and free time to explore. Opt to visit the Inca Bridge, if time allows. Catch the bus to Aguas Calientes to meet any non-hiking members of your group. Eat and relax before your train back to Cusco in the afternoon. Included Activities: Inca Trail Hike Machu Picchu Guided Tour Big Night Out Transport: Train (1.50 hour(s), 118km) Private Vehicle (2.00 hour(s))
    Day 16CuscoDay 16 Cusco (1B)
    Free day to explore more of Cusco or just relax.
    Day 17PunoDay 17 Cusco/Puno (1B)
    Travel through the high Altiplano region to travel to Puno on Lake Titicaca. Transport: Local bus (7.50 hour(s), 390km)
    Day 18Lago TiticacaDay 18 Puno/Lago Titicaca (1B, 1D)
    Head out by boat across Lake Titicaca. Visit the community on Taquile Island and enjoy a local lunch with spectacular views. After, cruise to another village for an overnight homestay on the shores of the lake (the homestay location can vary based on community availability). This experience provides an opportunity to learn more about rural life in the Peruvian highlands and to participate in local traditions. Eat with the family, learn some Quecha and Spanish language skills, try on traditional costumes, and help out with daily chores around the village. Included Activities: Lake Titicaca Guided Boat Tour Day 1 Lake Titicaca Homestay
    Day 19PunoDay 19 Lago Titicaca/Puno (1B, 1L)
    Leave the homestay families late morning, and visit the Uros Islands on the way back to Puno. A popular optional activity in Puno is a visit to the spectacular chullpas (funerary towers) of Sillustani, a pre-Inca archaeological site only a short drive away. Included Activities: Lake Titicaca Guided Boat Tour Day 2
    Day 20La PazDay 20 Puno/La Paz (1B)
    Enjoy a full-day drive around the lake and through the Altiplano to La Paz. Bolivia is filled with spectacular views of the countryside. La Paz sits nearly 4,000m (13,120 ft) above sea level, so be prepared for cool evenings and mornings. Included Activities: Border Crossing (Peru - Bolivia) Transport: Local bus (2.50 hour(s), 300km) Local bus (3.00 hour(s))
    Day 21La PazDay 21 La Paz (1B)
    Free day in La Paz. Opt to visit Iglesia de San Francisco, the Valley of the Moon, the Witches Market, or the nearby Tiahuanaco Ruins.
    Day 22SucreDay 22 La Paz/Sucre (1B)
    Enjoy a free day to explore the vibrant markets and winding streets of the city before boarding a night bus to Sucre. Transport: Overnight bus (14.00 hour(s), 416km)
    Day 23SucreDay 23 Sucre
    Travel south to Sucre. Tackle the city as there is a lot to offer during the two days here. Optional activities include a visit to an old tin baron's mansion, mountain biking, and hiking.
    Day 24SucreDay 24 Sucre (1B)
    Enjoy another free day to explore Sucre and surroundings.
    Day 25PotosiDay 25 Sucre/Potosi (1B)
    Staying in the Bolivian highlands, we travel south to the city of Potosi. The highest city of its size in the world, this UNESCO World Heritage Site has had a tumultuous history as a silver mining centre during colonial times. Transport: Local bus (2.50 hour(s))
    Day 26PotosiDay 26 Potosi (1B)
    Get out and explore Potosi, learn about the history of the city while wandering the streets. Stop at the market and interact with the locals.
    Day 27UyuniDay 27 Potosi/Uyuni (1B)
    Travel to Uyuni and get ready for an excursion to the salt flats. Transport: Private Vehicle (4.00 hour(s))
    Day 28Salar de UyuniDay 28 Uyuni/Salar de Uyuni (1B, 1D)
    Travel through the Bolivian landscape to the town of Uyuni. Despite its isolation and challenging climate (cold and blustery most of the year), the town of Uyuni has earned the nickname of Hija Predilecta de Bolivia (Bolivia's Favourite Daughter). It is also the starting point for our 3-night excursion through the spectacular Salar de Uyuni (Uyuni Salt Flats) in 4x4 vehicles. Spend three days in the stunning landscapes between the Salar de Uyuni and the Atacama Desert in Chile. Our groups like to get creative with photography, as the endless white of the salt flats creates some great depth illusions that are fun to play with in photos. The tour takes us through the impressive large red lagoon of Laguna Colorada and the striking blue-green Laguna Verde at 5,000m (16,404 ft). Settle in to your G Adventures-supported community salt-brick bungalow, complete with salt floors and furniture, after a guided walking tour up to the sacred Jukil mountaintop for sweeping valley views and a dinner of local ingredients prepared by ladies from the community. Additional Notes: Note: During the rainy season, the locations visited may change due to some routes being covered by water. We offer unique accommodation on the Uyuni Salt Flats. Instead of very basic refuges and homestays most operators use, we have upgraded to simple hotels that are equipped with solar panels to provide electricity and hot water. Rooms are multi-share and each has a private bathroom. Meals are made from local ingredients, most of which are grown on-site. Included Activities: Salt Flats Excursion Jukil Community Experience & Lodge Transport: 4x4
    Day 29Salar de UyuniDay 29 Salar de Uyuni (1B, 1L, 1D)
    Continue exploring the Uyuni Salt Flats on a 4x4 excursion. Admire the spectacular scenery while passing red and blue lagoons along the route. Spot wild llamas, alpacas and even flamingos deep within the desert. Included Activities: Salt Flats Excursion
    Day 30San Pedro de AtacamaDay 30 Salar de Uyuni/San Pedro de Atacama (1B, 1L)
    After continuing through the Uyuni Salt Flats in the morning, hop on a bus further south to the dry desert regions of Argentina and Chile, where we stop in the little town of San Pedro de Atacama, on the edge of the Atacama desert-the driest place on earth. Included Activities: Border Crossing (Bolivia - Chile) Transport: 4x4 (1.00 hour(s)) Local bus (1.50-2.50 hours)
    Day 31San Pedro de AtacamaDay 31 San Pedro de Atacama
    There are plenty of optional excursions here -- biking, exploring nearby ruins, horseback riding, and touring the Valley of the Moon.
    Day 32SaltaDay 32 San Pedro de Atacama/Salta
    We make our way to Salta, situated in the Lerma Valley of northern Argentina. Salta is home to empanadas salteNas - the delicious local specialty, and no visit to the town will be complete without giving them a try. In the evening, opt to experience a local celebration at one of the "PeNa" folklore shows. Included Activities: Border Crossing (Chile - Argentina) Transport: Local bus (10.00 hour(s))
    Day 33SaltaDay 33 Salta (1B)
    Explore the city and enjoy the local cuisine. Opt to take a trip through the scenic Quebrada de las Conchas to Cafayate, or visit the High Mountain Archaeological Museum.
    Day 34Buenos AiresDay 34 Salta/Buenos Aires
    When you are done exploring, settle your weary feet and enjoy a drink in one of the many sidewalk cafes and restaurants and begin to understand the contemplative Argentine way of life. Try the succulent bife and parrilladas! Transport: Plane (2.00 hour(s))
    Day 35Buenos AiresDay 35 Buenos Aires
    Consider booking post-tour accommodation to further explore fascinating Buenos Aires. Included Activities: Departure Day
    Dates/Pricing
    Click Quote or call 504-398-0056 to get additional information on your chosen travel date. Special offers or competitive pricing may be available!

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    Disclaimer

    Local Flights: N/A

    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.
      
     
    Thomas Travel & Cruise

    P.O. Box 741122 • New Orleans, Louisiana 70174  Phone 504-398-0056

    ttravel@thomascruise.com • www.thomascruise.com