Take in some of the very best that South America has to offer on a tailormade itinerary to Peru, Bolivia and Chile. The culture, landscapes and diversity found on this memorable journey will provide you with a true flavour of each of these fascinating countries. This is definitely one of our favourite itineraries in South America which can be tailormade to suit your individual requirements.
Upon arrival in Lima you’ll be met by a Lightfoot Travel representative and escorted to your hotel.
You'll have time unwind after your journey as the rest of the day will be spent at leisure.
Time permitting, your Lightfoot Travel Designer can advise on activities prior to departure.
Spend the day exploring Lima.
Visit the pre-Incan ruins of Huaca Pucallana, go on a bike tour of Miraflores, San Isidro and the Barranco districts, check out Larco Musuem, or embark on a gastro tour focusing on the diverse cuisine of the region.
After breakfast you'll be privately transferred (two hour drive) to the airport for your flight to Cusco.
Upon arrival, you'll be met by a Lightfoot Travel representative who'll escort you to your accommodation in the Sacred Valley (around two hours). On the way, you'll visit the Andean native markets and ruins of Pisac and the Alpaca Farm of Awanacancha.
This morning you’ll head to the colourful village of Chinchero and the Inca site of Moray.
You’ll see the salt pans at the village of Maras before continuing to Ollantaytambo, an archaeological site built by the Incas. Here you can meet the locals who still maintain old practices and customs.
Catch the Vistadome train to Aguas Calientes via the Urubamba Valley to Machu Picchu.
Your private guide will escort you around these incredible Inca ruins before leaving you to explore at your leisure.
This morning you'll return to Machu Picchu at your leisure without a guide. If you're feeling adventurous, we highly recommend a climb of Huayna Picchu before you leave.
In the afternoon you'll catch the Vistadome train to Cusco.
Spend the morning exploring Cusco.
Spend time at the ancient Incan site of Sacsayhuaman, visit the Inca Museum, and stroll around San Pedro market with its empanada and tamale vendors.
End at Cusco’s Plaza de Armas, the cultural centre of the city with restaurants, bars and coffee shops offering perfect spots for an afternoon of people-watching.
Take the train across the Altiplano to Lake Titicaca, soaking up the mesmerising views of the changing landscapes, mountains and rolling plains as you go.
Upon arrival in Puno you’ll be transferred to your accommodation.
Head to the largest lake in South America.
Explore the islands of the lake - Uros and Taquile - by boat, go birdwatching, visit the local markets, try kayaking, paddleboarding or canoeing.
Today you’ll be driven to Copacabana in Bolivia, located on the shores of Lake Titicaca.
Visit the shrine and the Dark Indian Virgin before taking a hydrofoil cruise to Sun Island. Here you can visit the Inca Grand Stairs and the Sacred Fountain, whose waters are believed to give eternal youth and happiness.
After lunch continue to Moon Island. See the Sun Virgins Temple Iñak Uyu and cruise to Cocotoni by hydrofoil before visiting the Andean Roots Eco Village & The Altiplano Museum.
Continue to La Paz with the mighty peaks of the Andes as your backdrop.
Explore La Paz and learn about the traditions and magic rites of pre-Hispanic times. See the indigenous, colonial and modern areas and the Indian market and Witch Doctor's market. Visit the Moon Valley and take the Teleférico-cable car ride over the city for epic views with Mountain Illimani in the background.
You’ll be escorted to the airport for your flight to Uyuni.
Upon arrival you’ll embark on an excursion to Salt Lake where you’ll find surreal pentagons of crystalline salt, endless sky and cacti.
Next, visit Isla Incawasi, an oasis with formations of algae and fossils, and an excellent spot for photography.
End the day with a visit to Thunupa volcano and Coquesa mummies.
Embark on a private journey across the salt flats towards Soniquera and Ojo de Perdi to see some of the most famous deserts and lakes in the region.
Stop at "Desierto de Siloli" before heading to the Laguna Hediond. You’ll also visit the lakes of Laguna Chiarcota, Laguna Kañapa and Laguna Honda.
Enjoy the ride as you’re driven towards San Pedro de Atacama in Chile.
Your first visit will be Laguna Colorada (Red Lagoon), set within the National Reserve Eduardo Avaroa, and inhabited by flocks of three species of flamingo as well as vicuñas, llamas and vizcachas.
Continue to the fumaroles and volcanic craters of Geyser Sol de Mañana Geysers and Laguna Verde.
You will end your day in Chile.
Spend the next few days exploring Pedro de Atacama in Chile.
Excursions include a day trip to the El Tatio Geysers, some of which are 4,300 metres up in the Andes, a day trip to the High-Altiplanic lagoons of Miscanti and Minisques, a visit to Chaxas Lagoon, or a session floating in the salty waters of Cejar Lagoon, the Atacama's own 'Dead Sea'.
There are various volcanoes, hikes, treks, and mountain biking activities also available.
Make sure you end the day with sunset views from the Valley of the Moon in Chile.
Today you'll continue to explore the Atacama Desert.
Today you’ll be driven to the airport for your flight to Santiago.
Upon arrival, you’ll be escorted to your accommodation where you can choose from staying in Santiago to explore the city, or head out to the nearby relaxing wineries. The rest of the afternoon will be spent at leisure.
Your Lightfoot Travel Designer can advise you on suitable activities prior to departure.
Spend today at your leisure in Santiago or the wine region.
Your Lightfoot Travel Designer will be able to advise on activities depending on your choice of location. Along with sightseeing and wine tasting, you can enjoy hiking, biking, horse riding, or a daily excursion.
Today you’ll be escorted to the airport for your flight departure.
AUTHENTICITYWe won't take you to the usual tourist traps, instead we'll introduce you to people that show you the true side of a country. With our contacts in each destination, we can arrange for you to meet locals away from the crowds and ensure an authentic experience.
EXPERTISEYou can rely on our extensive first-hand knowledge and years of experience in the country you’re visiting. We use only the best expert guides, and provide insider tips on the local customs, and everything from vibrant festivals to hidden Himalayan monasteries
PERSONAL SERVICEYour holiday will be as unique as you are. By getting to know you and what makes you tick, we fuse our wealth of expertise and a deep understanding of our destinations to create unique day by day itineraries that are built around you.
