Incas, Samba & Falls 14 Days / 13 Nights

This whirlwind tour takes you through the most memorable sights of one of the continent's ancient civilizations, the natural marvel that is Iguazu Falls, and the fantastic scenery and spirit of two of South America's most beautiful cities; colourful Rio de Janeiro and sophisticated Buenos Aires in a little more than two quick weeks.

Departs Tuesday, Friday and Sunday.

Day 1: AUSTRALIA - LIMA Transfer to hotel. Stay overnight.

Day 2: LIMA - CUZCO (B) Transfer to airport for your flight to the ancient Inca capital of Cuzco. Transfer to hotel and stay overnight.

Day 3: CUZCO - SACRED VALLEY (B, L) Full day tour of the Sacred Valley of the Incas including a stop at the colourful Pisac Market & ruins of Ollantaytambo. Overnight.

Day 4: SACRED VALLEY - MACHU PICCHU (B, L) Start your 2 day journey to the unforgettable ruins of Machu Picchu, by boarding a tourist train to Aguas Calientes. Catch a bus to the mountain where you will be guided through this beautiful forgotten citadel, home of an incredibly advanced civilisation.

Day 5: MACHU PICCHU - CUZCO (B) You will have this morning free to explore the ruins at your own pace before catching the return train back to Cuzco.

Day 6: CUZCO (B) Guided half-day tour of the ancient Inca capital of Cuzco, exploring temples, ruins and museums showcasing this wondrous civilization.

Day 7: CUZCO - LIMA (B) Morning at leisure to wander through the cobble streets of Cuzco or explore the many museums. Transfer and afternoon flight to Lima.

Day 8: LIMA - SAO PAULO - RIO DE JANEIRO (B) Flight to Rio de Janeiro via Sao Paulo. Transfer to hotel. Afternoon free to explore this captivating city or lounge by the famous Ipanema or Copacabana beach.

Day 9: RIO DE JANEIRO (B) Half day trip to the top of Corcovado mountain, catching a small train through the Tijuca forest before reaching the top to see the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue.

Day 10: RIO DE JANEIRO (B, D) Tour and cable car trip to one of the city's favourite landmarks Sugar Loaf mountain, the famous granite and quartz peaks for a splendid view of the city and Guanabara bay. In the evening, head a local churrasqueria for a hearty Brazilian BBQ Dinner and colourful samba show.

Day 11: RIO DE JANEIRO - IGUAZU FALLS (B) Transfer to airport, flight to Iguazu Falls. Guided walk along the many trails on the Argentine side of the falls, including a small train journey to the impressive Devil's Throat, the point during which most water passes through this impressive cascade.

Day 12: IGUAZU FALLS - BUENOS AIRES (B, D) Tour of the Brazilian side of the falls for a panoramic view of this natural marvel, transfer to airport. Flight to Buenos Aires, transfer to hotel. In the evening you will be taken to feast on some succulent Argentine beef and treated to a lively dinner and tango show.

Day 13: BUENOS AIRES (B) Half day tour of South America's stylish capital, Buenos Aires, whose architecture and boulevards are steeply influenced by a European heritage. Visit the bohemian street market of La Boca, the tango barrio of San Telmo and the famous Recoleta cemetery, home to the resting place of Eva Peron.

Day 14: BUENOS AIRES (B) Transfer to airport for your flight home.

Day 15: Inflight date line crossing.

Day 16: Arrive Australia.

Tour includes:

• International economy airfares ex MEL/BNE/SYD
• 6 internal flights within South America
• Accommodation in selected hotels with private facilities
• Meals as indicated (12 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners)
• Return economy Vistadome train to Machu Picchu
• Transport by air conditioned vehicles
• Comprehensive sightseeing and excursions
• Meeting service and airport transfers
• English speaking local guides

Tour excludes:

• Airport taxes or security taxes
• Tips or portage charges