The Great South American Journey: Quito to Rio Adventure - Lares Trek

Arrive at any time. Tonight, get to know your fellow travellers over a few drinks at a downtown bar. Say cheers with a local craft beer and get excited for the adventure of a lifetime.
Spend the first day of your trip wandering Ecuador’s capital city. Meet the group in the evening at the hotel.

Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group: Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.

Travel overland to the jungle city of Tena, located on the edge of the Amazon. Hop into the back of a pickup truck and head to the local community of Pimpilala where you will stay in rustic wooden huts. Enjoy the hospitality of a Quichua family and experience life in the jungle first-hand.

Amazon Jungle Experience: Learn about local traditional beliefs and customs on this cultural jungle experience in the Ecuadorian Amazon close to Napo River. Stay in rustic wooden huts with a local Quichua family as hosts near the community of Cando. They've introduced countless visitors to local living and a completely different way of doing things — one that may give you a different perspective on life. Take part in a number of amazing activities. Hike through the rainforest, plunge into waterfalls, and learn the uses of tropical plants. Experience local tradition, and learn about Quichua history and culture.

: Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.

Meal plan: BREAKFAST, LUNCH, DINNER

Venture out on nature walks and become immersed in the jungle around you. Learn about uses of traditional plants, and the cultural beliefs and local traditions in the Amazon jungle. You can also choose to take a tour of an animal rescue and rehabilitation centre.

Amazon Jungle Experience: Learn about local traditional beliefs and customs on this cultural jungle experience in the Ecuadorian Amazon close to Napo River. Stay in rustic wooden huts with a local Quichua family as hosts near the community of Cando. They've introduced countless visitors to local living and a completely different way of doing things — one that may give you a different perspective on life. Take part in a number of amazing activities. Hike through the rainforest, plunge into waterfalls, and learn the uses of tropical plants. Experience local tradition, and learn about Quichua history and culture.

Meal plan: BREAKFAST, LUNCH, DINNER

Wake up and cycle to the nearby community of Shandia and discover the beauty of the Amazon with a member of the community as your guide. Learn about traditional uses of cacao by watching a chocolate-making demonstration, eat meals made of fresh local ingredients, and stay at the G Adventures-supported community lodge.

Shandia Biking & Community Experience: Cycle to the Indigenous Shandia community, a rural village surrounded by rivers and lush Amazonian landscapes. With the support of G Adventures and Planeterra, the community has developed new culturally immersive experiences led by the village’s youth. Spend an hour and 45 minutes cycling from Pimpilala village to Shandia stopping along the way to take in the beauty of the Amazon. These cultural tours are seen by the community as a way to rescue their Indigenous culture and provide opportunities for the future. This provides an economic opportunity for youth who traditionally would have left the community to find work. Leave Shandia community knowing your visit is creating opportunities for a new generation in the community and contributing to the preservation of their culture.

Meal plan: BREAKFAST, LUNCH, DINNER

Travel to Baños and get your adrenaline pumping. Try out horseback riding, canyoning, hiking, mountain biking, or rafting in the surrounding mountains.

: Hop into the back and ride along to the next destination.

Free Time: Get out and explore Baños and its beautiful surroundings.

Meal plan: BREAKFAST

The day is yours to explore what Baños has to offer. Check out the swing at the end of the world or relax in nearby hot springs.

Free Time: Get out there and get exploring.

Soak up the scenic views en route to the town of Cuenca, Ecuador's third largest town. Explore art galleries, museums, and admire its colonial architecture. Visit national parks, take walks in the breathtaking countryside, or check out the country's only Inca ruin site.

: Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.

Choose your own adventure today. Wander through charming cobbled streets to discover the sights and sounds of Cuenca. From colourful homes with red-tiled roofs, to flower markets and picturesque plazas, the photo ops are endless in this town. (Prepare to have your camera roll filled with Cuenca!) Later, catch some z's on an overnight bus to Mancora.

Border Crossing (Ecuador - Peru): Ready for a little more ink in your passport? Grab your bags and get ready to check another country off your bucket list.

: Curl up and catch a snooze en route to the next stop.

Free Time: Enjoy free time to explore colonial Cuenca and its surroundings.

Wake up in the seaside town of Mancora, a village populated by fishermen and surfers. Chill out and breathe in the salty air.

Free Time: Chill out in this Peruvian fishing village, head to the beach or give surfing a try.

A lazy beach day is just what the doctor ordered. Unless you want to or take a surf lesson or join a yoga class. Totally up to you as you enjoy a free day in Mancora.

Free Time: Enjoy a free day to relax or get active.

Didn't get to do everything you wanted yesterday? No worries – more time in Mancora today. Later, relax and get some sleep on an overnight bus to Trujillo.

: Curl up and catch a snooze en route to the next stop.

Free Time: Get out and enjoy this beachside town.

Bienvenidos a Trujillo! You can visit the impressive Chan Chan sandstone archaeological site today, snap a photo at the yellow colonial church, or head to Huanchaco for some more beach time.

Free Time: Get out and explore the city!

Enjoy another full day in Trujillo before boarding a night bus to Lima.

: Curl up and catch a snooze en route to the next stop.

Free Time: Do as much or as little as you'd like before an overnight bus in the evening.

Discover the lively city of Lima today. Visit the trendy Barranco neighbourhood with your CEO to get a taste of bohemian-cool, try some ceviche, or sip pisco sours after exploring the colourful mansions and palm-studded streets.

Barranco Neighbourhood Visit: Dubbed Lima's coolest neighbourhood, once full of summer homes for Lima's elite now an area full with art boutiques, trendy bars, converted mansions, and cool vibes.

Free Time: Get out and enjoy a first taste of Lima, the capital of Peru.

Meal plan: BREAKFAST

Enjoy the day exploring the city. Opt to pre-book the Lima Cooking Class and learn how to cook some classic Peruvian dishes using ingredients from the local market.

Free Time: Get out and get exploring!

Travel along Peru's breathtaking coast to the oasis of Huacachina where you can sandboard on the desert dunes while watching the sun go down.

Sunset Sandboarding & Dune Buggies: Get your adrenaline pumping in a dune buggy on the desert dunes, ride the ups and downs in these desert mountains. Strap on a board and try out sandboarding, just like it sounds like snowboarding, but on sand. Enjoy the softer landings and the warmer temps. After, head back to the oasis of Huacachina through the stunning dunes and watch the sunset in the distance.

: Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.

Meal plan: BREAKFAST

Wake up and make the most of your time in Huacachina before your adventure continues on to Nazca. There is time in the morning for an optional excursion to the Ballestas Islands, home to a lively colony of sea lions, pelicans, and other varieties of birds. Later, catch a bus to Nazca. Stop along the way at a Pisco winery and try the country's national drink!

Huacachina Winery Visit: Learn about the wine and pisco production in the area and enjoy a tasting of different varieties, which are all available for purchase.

: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Choose to soar over the iconic Nazca Lines today with a pre-bookable flight, or take a tour of the Nazca Desert Cemetery and Pottery Studio. For lunch today experience pachamanca, a traditional way to prepare Andean foods by slow cooking them in an underground oven. Tonight, catch some z's on an overnight bus to Arequipa.

Pachamanca: Enjoy a traditional meal. Assist in the preparation of a thousand-year-old tradition: "Pachamanca," an ancient ceremony akin to the Polynesian meal of burying a variety of delicious treats wrapped in banana leaves and slow-cooking them with pre-heated rocks buried in the ground.

: Curl up and catch a snooze en route to the next stop.

Free Time: Enjoy some free time during the day.

Meal plan: LUNCH

Welcome to Arequipa! Take the day to explore what is known as the 'white city.' If you're into history and architecture, visit the Santa Catalina Monastery, where you'll get a unique glimpse into a bygone way of life. For spicy food lovers, visiting one of the 'picanterías' is a must. Satisfy your craving with a variety of local regional foods: alpaca, shrimp, pork, lots of soups, and spicy sauces.

Free Time: Make the most of your time here.

Enjoy a full-day tour of the spectacular Colca Valley and venture to the impressive Colca Canyon — one of the deepest canyons in the world — on an overnight excursion. With a little luck, you'll spot some unusual Andean animals such as vicuñas, and alpacas. Give your body some much needed relaxation by taking an optional dip in the the hot springs.

Colca Canyon Guided Tour: Spot condors on this guided tour, and keep your eyes peeled for other unusual animals. Look for three different species of camelids: alpaca, llama, and vicuña, which are all typical of Peru.

: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Meal plan: BREAKFAST

Get an early start to be on the look out for condors. Travel from Chivay town to a condor viewpoint to get a glimpse of these magnificent birds in the air. On the way back, stop in local villages, and see old terraces. Later, head out for a drink in the Calle Zela area – restaurant, bar, or club, there's something for everyone!

Colca Canyon Guided Tour: Spot condors on this guided tour, and keep your eyes peeled for other unusual animals. Look for three different species of camelids: alpaca, llama, and vicuña, which are all typical of Peru.

: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Meal plan: BREAKFAST

Explore Arequipa – take a city tour if you want or check out a monastery or museum. Later, sit back and relax on an overnight bus to Cusco.

: Curl up and catch a snooze en route to the next stop.

Free Time: Get out and explore more of this beautiful colonial city.

Meal plan: BREAKFAST

Explore the city on your own today or choose from a variety of activities that will help you discover the magic of Cusco. Wander the narrow cobblestone streets and plazas or choose to take a half-day tour of the city. Or, pre-book the Cusco cooking class if you want to learn to prepare delicious local specialties!

Free Time: Make the most of your time in Cusco.

Today is another free day to explore all that Cusco has to offer. Feeling active? Take on the Rainbow Mountain trek or go mountain biking. Prefer to stay local? Take it easy with a visit to the Inka Museum and hit up some of the many great cafes, restaurants and bars.
To arrange the hike to the famed Rainbow Mountain, pre-book on the checkout page to include this optional activity on your tour or ask your GCO or travel agent for assistance.

Free Time: Make the most of your time in Cusco.

Meal plan: BREAKFAST

Head into the Sacred Valley today to visit the G-Adventures supported women's weaving co-op in the Ccaccaccollo community. Learn about weaving, and meet the adorable resident llamas. If you see a knitted item you like, buy it — a perfect keepsake from your journey. Stop and sample some craft beer at a brewery on your way to Ollantaytambo.

Ccaccaccollo Community and Women's Weaving Co-op visit: Visit the Ccaccaccollo community centre which G Adventures travellers' donations helped create in 2005, thereby enabling local women to sell traditional textiles to travellers. See local weaving and dyeing techniques used to create garments and souvenirs, and learn how the Planeterra weaving co-operative has impacted the community and those who visit it. This includes the purchase of alpacas to provide a steady supply of wool, looms, and sewing machines as well as several training courses on production, sales and small business management.

: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Meal plan: BREAKFAST

Depart Ollantaytambo by van to Lares town where your hike begins! Spend the first night in a G Adventures-supported campsite in Cuncani.
The Lares Trek is a scenic, less touristic route to hike through the Andes. It is one day shorter than the Inca Trail but higher in elevation. Enjoy G Adventures-supported handmade biodegradable soap products for use on the Lares Trek.

Lares Trek (Lares-Cuncani): Start early and drive (3 hrs) to Lares town where the hike will start with a leisurely pace through the valley of Cuncani. Hike 4km (2.5 mi) to Chancachaca then stop for lunch. Be sure to rest and rehydrate because the altitude here is around 3480m (11,417 ft). Continue trekking along rocky mountain paths 4.7km (3 mi) to the isolated village of Cuncani. Camp here for the night at 3872m (12,703 ft) at the G Adventures-supported community run campsite.

: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Meal plan: BREAKFAST, LUNCH, DINNER

Wake up and get an early start today to hike from the foothills of Sicllaccasa Mountain to its high pass (4,750m/15,583 ft), providing scenic views of lagoons and the snow-capped Chicon Mountain. Celebrate after reaching the highest point by making an offering of coca leaves to the Andean gods. After the morning hike, stop to rest and take in the amazing view. Continue hiking downhill to our second campsite near the stream for the night.

Lares Trek (Cuncani - Kuyoc): Hike from the foothills of Sicllaccasa Mountain 12.2km (7.6 mi) to its high pass at 4,800m (15,748ft), providing scenic views of lagoons and the snow-capped Chicon Mountain. Celebrate after reaching the highest point by making an offering of coca leaves to the Andean gods. Hike downhill another 2.2km (1.3 mi) to QuencaPata, for lunch and to take in the amazing view. Continue hiking downhill another 2.6km (1.6 mi) to our second campsite near a stream. Sleep tonight at about 4,114m (13,497 ft) elevation.

Meal plan: BREAKFAST, LUNCH, DINNER

Enjoy the last few hours of hiking before travelling by van to Ollantaytambo and train to Aguas Calientes to enjoy a good night's rest at your hotel.

Lares Trek (Kuyoc - Punta Carretera): Follow the trail to see typical Andean flora and fauna, llamas and alpacas. Descend through the valley of Pumahuanca and meet friendly local Quechua people and explore some Inca storehouses along the way. Trek 3-4 hrs to reach the town of Pumahuanca. Enjoy lunch then hop a van to Ollantaytambo. Continue by train to Aguas Calientes.

: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Meal plan: BREAKFAST, LUNCH

Enjoy a guided visit to Machu Picchu. Later, travel back to Cusco. Tonight, dance the night away at a popular night club.

Machu Picchu Guided Tour: Set off with the local guide to explore Machu Picchu, the Lost City of the Incas. Learn about the history and gain insights into this massive mountaintop citadel while wandering through ancient dwellings, stone temples and along sculpted terraces. Feel the energy of this 15th-century site, now both a UNESCO World Heritage site and voted one of the new Seven Wonders of the World in a worldwide internet poll.

: Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.

Meal plan: BREAKFAST

Today is another free day to get the most out of Cusco and to do anything you may not have done yet. Continue to explore and be active or relax and watch the world go by from one of they many bars and restaurants on the main plaza.

Free Time: Get out there and see it all – or just chill out to your heart's content.

Meal plan: BREAKFAST

Sit back, relax, and soak in the impressive views as you travel by bus through the Altiplano on your way to Puno on Lake Titicaca.

: Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.

Meal plan: BREAKFAST

This morning, you will board a boat on Lake Titicaca and head to Taquile Island. Opt to have lunch in a local restaurant and shop in the afternoon at the local weaving cooperatives. Later, cruise to another village for an overnight homestay to live like a local on the shores of the lake. Learn more about rural life in the Peruvian highlands and create unforgettable memories with the family and fellow travellers.

Lake Titicaca Guided Boat Tour Day 1: Board a boat on Lake Titicaca and head to Taquile Island for an optional delicious Peruvian lunch at a restaurant followed by some shopping at the local weaving cooperatives. Taquileños are known for their fine handwoven textiles and clothing, men are taught how to knit around age five and they create the majority of the textiles. After, enjoy an overnight stay with a host family and a chance to learn about life on the islands.

Meal plan: BREAKFAST, DINNER

Say goodbye to your homestay family and stop at the Uros Islands on your way back to Puno. If you want, you can check out the spectacular chullpas (funerary towers) of Sillustani, a pre-Inca archaeological site. Or kayak on Lake Titicaca.

Lake Titicaca Guided Boat Tour Day 2: Spend the morning with the homestay families, then depart after lunch. Visit the floating islands of Uros on the way back, and learn about the unique lifestyle of the locals. Meet residents and learn how they built the islands with totora reeds, which are also used to make their homes, boats, crafts (and are also edible!).

Free Time: Make the most of one last afternoon in Puno.

Meal plan: BREAKFAST, LUNCH

Today, enjoy a full-day drive around the picturesque lake and through the Altiplano to La Paz. Cross over into Bolivia and catch your breath before a night out in the highest city of the trip. Check out the area of Sopocachi for cool bohemian vibes.

Border Crossing (Peru - Bolivia): Ready for a little more ink in your passport? Grab your bags and get ready to check another country off your bucket list.

: Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.

Meal plan: BREAKFAST

If you didn't have time yesterday to do everything you wanted in La Paz — no worries! Today is another day to explore the city as you wish. If you're an adrenaline junkie, make sure to experience the Death Road Biking Adventure.

Meal plan: BREAKFAST

Get to know La Paz with a free day to wander through the city's winding streets and vibrant markets before boarding a night bus to Sucre.

: Curl up and catch a snooze en route to the next stop.

Free Time: Get out and explore this high altitude city.

Meal plan: BREAKFAST

Discover the beauty of Sucre, known as Bolivia's "White City" at your own pace with a free day to explore. Set in a valley surrounded by mountains, you can choose to go hiking or mountain biking to admire this city from a different point of view.

Free Time: Get out and explore beautiful tranquil Sucre.

One day in Sucre isn't enough, so take another free day to explore! Try optional activities such as hiking, mountain biking, a visit to the Textile Cooperative, or get up close and personal with real dinosaur tracks.

Free Time: Get out and explore beautiful tranquil Sucre.

Meal plan: BREAKFAST

Venture south to Potosí, the highest city of its size in the world.
Staying in the Bolivian highlands, we travel south to the city of Potosí. 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.

: Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.

Meal plan: BREAKFAST

Get out and explore Potosí on a free day. Choose to take an excursion to the Potosí Mines led by former miners, visit the Casa de la Moneda or wander the streets and visit the local market.

Free Time: Get out there and explore.

Meal plan: BREAKFAST

It's off to Uyuni today. Breathe in the beautiful scenery while relaxing in a private vehicle. Take it easy today because your next adventure is right around the corner!

: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Meal plan: BREAKFAST

Embark on a three-day 4x4 excursion to the Salar de Uyuni. Get your camera ready because the endless white of the salt flats creates the perfect backdrop for mindbending photo ops. Settle in to your G Adventures-supported community salt-brick bungalow — complete with salt floors and salt furniture, and enjoy a delicious dinner prepared with local ingredients.

Salt Flats and Desert Crossing Excursion: Spend three days in the stunning landscape between the Salar de Uyuni and the Atacama Desert in Chile. Enter a world unlike anything else as we drive across the salt flats; the piercing blue sky contrasts against the blinding white of the flat salt beds. Take memorable photos of the unusual landscape complete with mountains and active volcanoes. Visit the coloured lagoon of Laguna Colorada and enjoy the uniqueness of this region.

: Roads? Where this rough-and-ready vehicle's going, we don't need roads.

Meal plan: BREAKFAST, DINNER

Continue crossing the desert today, admiring the scenery while passing red and blue lagoons and intriguing rock formations along the route. Keep an eye out and you might spot wild llamas, alpacas, and even flamingos deep within the desert.

Salt Flats and Desert Crossing Excursion: Spend three days in the stunning landscape between the Salar de Uyuni and the Atacama Desert in Chile. Enter a world unlike anything else as we drive across the salt flats; the piercing blue sky contrasts against the blinding white of the flat salt beds. Take memorable photos of the unusual landscape complete with mountains and active volcanoes. Visit the coloured lagoon of Laguna Colorada and enjoy the uniqueness of this region.

Meal plan: BREAKFAST, LUNCH, DINNER

Get a head start on your day by rising early to cover more ground on your journey through the unique landscape of the Salar de Uyuni. Soak in the views of unimaginable scenery including volcanoes and salt lakes. Travel to the border then kick back and relax on your descent by bus to San Pedro de Atacama, Chile.

Border Crossing (Bolivia - Chile): Ready for a little more ink in your passport? Grab your bags and get ready to check another country off your bucket list.

: Roads? Where this rough-and-ready vehicle's going, we don't need roads.

Meal plan: BREAKFAST, LUNCH

Today is full of possibilities. Explore San Pedro de Atacama on a mountain bike, cruise down the dunes on a sandboard, or chill out in the hot springs. Or visit the Valley of the Moon, an area on Earth that resembles the moon's surface. (How cool is that?)

Free Time: Get out and explore the area.

Say "Adios!" to Chile because you're heading to Argentina today. Relax on the bus en route to Salta, home to empanadas salteñas—and no visit to the town is complete without trying them! Unwind at the hotel or liven it up with a visit to a Peña Folklore show to dance the night away and sip delicious Argentine red wine.

Border Crossing (Chile - Argentina): Ready for a little more ink in your passport? Grab your bags and get ready to check another country off your bucket list.

: Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.

Tantalize your tastebuds with the local cuisine today as you explore freely. Choose to saddle up and admire the scenery on horseback. Or, if you'd prefer, take a visit to the town of Cafayate to roam vineyards and sample some of the white wine produced at insanely high altitudes.

Free Time: Get out and explore scenic Salta and surrounds.

Meal plan: BREAKFAST

Skip the long bus journey with a quick flight to Buenos Aires. Spend the afternoon exploring the city. Cruise around on a bike with a local or dine on a traditional Argentine meal while experiencing the art of the tango.

: Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.

Free Time: Get out and explore beautiful Buenos Aires.

Meal plan: BREAKFAST

Head out and explore the buzzing metropolis of Buenos Aires on a free day. A great city for walking, see the iconic obelisk, wander the pedestrian streets and visit the main Plaza de Mayo with its pink government palace before stopping for a coffee on a patio at one of the many cafes along the way.
Get out and explore. Consider visiting the districts of La Boca, Recoleta, and San Telmo or catch a tango show at one of the many famous tanguerías. Pre book an optional city bike tour, and get a local's eye view of your surroundings! Wander the pedestrian walkways and see some dancing in the streets.

Free Time: Get out and explore!

Explore the "Paris of the Americas," from the hidden patios of trendy Palermo to bohemian vibes in San Telmo this city has something for everyone. Don’t miss out! Today is your last chance to experience a guided tour of the city and to immerse yourself in the passion of the tango.

Free Time: Get out and explore Argentina's beautiful capital city.

Hop aboard a ferry and cruise across the Río de la Plata to Colonia, Uruguay. Wander through the colourful streets of this quaint seaside retreat on an orientation walk before free time to explore (and relax!) at your own speed.

Border Crossing (Argentina - Uruguay): Ready for a little more ink in your passport? Grab your bags and get ready to check another country off your bucket list.

: Get to the next spot on your route aboard a convenient and efficient ferry boat.

Free Time: Get out and explore quaint Colonia.

Your journey continues in the morning as you travel from Colonia to Montevideo. The afternoon is yours for the taking — so explore as you wish! You can wander through the vibrant streets of old town searching for street art or visit an iconic soccer stadium that was host to the first World Cup. Hungry? Bring your appetite to Port Market where you will find an endless bounty of delicious meats. (And fruits and veggies, too.)

: Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.

Free Time: Explore Montevideo, spend the afternoon cruising along the coast on a bike, visiting the iconic soccer stadium, or search for street art in the old town.

Meal plan: BREAKFAST

Wake up ready to take on another day in Montevideo. Hop on a bike and cruise down the Rambla, soaking up sun and gorgeous views from this coastline avenue. Take a day trip to glamorous Punta del Este to admire the upscale neighbourhoods and gardens. Or if you prefer to relax today, kick back and chill in the park like a local.

Free Time: Take as much time as you'd like to explore Montevideo.

Meal plan: BREAKFAST

Today, let the scenery of picturesque settlements and pastures guide you to Mercedes, your last Uruguayan stop at a local ranch, known in this region as an estancia.

Estancia Stay: Live like a local Gaucho as you experience life on a Uruguayan working ranch in the region of Estancia. Set out on walks through the countryside, enjoy an easy horseback ride through the gorgeous scenery, and appreciate unforgettable sunsets. Learn about the area’s history, sit down for a delicious traditional barbecue, and learn how to cook empanadas. All meals are included during your time here and there will be a farewell bonfire before the group departs for the next stop.

: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Meal plan: BREAKFAST, LUNCH, DINNER

Live like a local today as you experience life on an Uruguayan ranch. Walk through the serene countryside, learn how to make empanadas, and enjoy horseback riding with amazing views. End your estancia stay in the best way possible — with a local barbecue.

Estancia Stay: Live like a local Gaucho as you experience life on a Uruguayan working ranch in the region of Estancia. Set out on walks through the countryside, enjoy an easy horseback ride through the gorgeous scenery, and appreciate unforgettable sunsets. Learn about the area’s history, sit down for a delicious traditional barbecue, and learn how to cook empanadas. All meals are included during your time here and there will be a farewell bonfire before the group departs for the next stop.

Free Time: Participate in as much or as little as you'd like at the estancia. Dive in and help out or put your feet up.

Meal plan: BREAKFAST, LUNCH, DINNER

Cross the border into Gualeguaychu in Argentina today. Unwind, relax and reflect on your travels as you begin your overnight journey to Iguassu Falls.

Border Crossing (Uruguay - Argentina): Ready for a little more ink in your passport? Grab your bags and get ready to check another country off your bucket list.

: Curl up and catch a snooze en route to the next stop.

Meal plan: BREAKFAST

Welcome to Iguassu Falls where your next adventure awaits. Arrive to Puerto Iguazú in the morning after your overnight bus ride and enjoy a unique visit to the G Adventures-supported Jasy Pora community in the lush Misiones rainforest region. Guided by a local expert you will learn more about this Indigenous community as well as their harmonious relationship to the environment. Afterwards, choose to visit the Brazilian side of the falls and experience unforgettable panoramic views. Reach new heights with the option to take a helicopter ride over the falls, or check out a bird park.

Guaraní Community Experience: Experience a unique visit to the G Adventures-supported Jasy Pora community in the morning. Meaning “Luna Bonita,” this community is located just 20 minutes from the centre of Puerto Iguazú in the area known as Las 600 Hectáreas. The region is home to the native Guaraní communities and Jasy Pora was formed by 20 different families whom are opening their doors to share culture and knowledge with travellers. The aim is to preserve their heritage and create employment opportunities for future generations. Historically nomadic, the Guaraní community of Argentina has adapted to modern challenges while still protecting their ancestral lands. Your visit has a meaningful impact and helps to foster pride and ensure the preservation of their heritage. Guided by a local Guaraní expert, the group will explore the lush Misiones rainforest and experience a deeper connection to nature. Learn more about the traditional uses of flora and fauna, the Indigenous language, and the importance of a harmonious relationship with the environment through sustainable practices.

: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Free Time: Get out and explore the area!

Enjoy a full day excursion to the breathtaking Argentine side of the falls. Don't forget to take pictures as you wander along paths to experience the falls from each exhilarating vantage point. You can also take a boat tour to see the cascading falls from below.

Border Crossing (Brazil - Argentina): Ready for a little more ink in your passport? Grab your bags and get ready to check another country off your bucket list.

Meal plan: BREAKFAST

Wheels up! Take a quick flight to São Paulo today then head straight to the coast. Take some time to explore the colonial town of Paraty, then hit the beach.

: Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.

Meal plan: BREAKFAST

Do as much or as little as you want today. Go swimming, snorkelling, or explore the islands on a boat tour. Or, simply recharge your batteries by immersing yourself in the laidback vibes of Paraty.
Paraty is a quaint colonial town renowned for its architecture—the pace might be slow but there's a lot to choose from. Considered one of the world's most important examples of Portuguese colonial architecture by UNESCO, the historic centre is a well-preserved national historic monument, and today has been closed to vehicles to preserve its laid-back colonial ambiance.

Free Time: You made it to the beach! Enjoy it by exploring the area or blissing out by the water.

Meal plan: BREAKFAST

Continue up the coast today and hop aboard a ferry to where your island paradise awaits.

: Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.

Free Time: You made it to an island paradise! Go explore it.

Meal plan: BREAKFAST

The day is yours to explore Ilha Grande. Break a sweat hiking remote trails to experience jaw dropping views, or choose to relax on a boat tour through turquoise waters to some of the island's most beautiful beaches to swim and snorkel.

Free Time: You made it to an island paradise! Go explore it.

Meal plan: BREAKFAST

Say goodbye to island life and head north along a dramatic coastal road with sweeping views. Round the cliffs at Vidigal to catch a first glimpse of your next destination and one of the most memorable cities in the world — Rio de Janeiro. Take a city tour to experience the sights of Rio, like the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue, or take a stroll along Copacabana beach.

: Get to the next spot on your route aboard a convenient and efficient ferry boat.

Meal plan: BREAKFAST

In the morning, explore the favela with a local resident on a G Adventures-supported tour to watch a drumming demonstration, get a Capoeira lesson, and sample craft beers with a new perspective of the city. Enjoy a free afternoon to discover all that Rio has to offer.

Favela Experience: Explore dynamic communities and support social enterprises on a tour led by residents of the Vidigal favela. Participate in a Capoeira session, visit an innovative community green space, sample artisanal beer made in the favela, and purchase unique handicrafts. With support from G Adventures, entrepreneurial organizations and members of the community are connected with people, ideas, and resources from around the world to grow their businesses.

Free Time: Spend the day exploring this vibrant city. Take a guided tour, catch a local football game, or relax on one of Rio's world famous beaches.

Meal plan: BREAKFAST

Depart at any time.

Departure Day: Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.

Meal plan: BREAKFAST