The Grand South American Adventure
Overview
Embark on a remarkable 22-day journey through some of South America’s most captivating landscapes and vibrant cultures. From soaring mountains and lush forests to bustling cities and serene waterways, this immersive adventure offers a perfect blend of natural wonders, rich heritage, and unforgettable experiences. Over 21 nights, you’ll travel at a comfortable pace, discovering iconic sights, hidden gems, and the unique spirit of each region. With each day bringing new perspectives and memorable moments, this journey promises to leave you with lasting impressions and stories to treasure for a lifetime.
If your itinerary includes domestic and/or regional flight tickets, as well as entry tickets to landmarks that require passport details, you must call Air Canada Vacations immediately upon receiving your booking confirmation. Failure to provide Air Canada Vacations with your passport details may result in the unavailability of domestic and/or regional flight tickets, and entry passes for certain landmarks included in your tour package. It is mandatory to call Air Canada Vacations at the number provided in your electronic confirmation as soon as your booking is confirmed to submit your passport details.
Important notes:
- The More Moments activities/excursions mentioned in the itinerary are all included in the package but may be rescheduled to take place on an earlier or later day, depending on availability and operational day, or cancelled due to weather- related conditions.
- The itinerary above is subject to change without prior notice. The order in which destinations are visited, or day excursions occur, may change due to operational restrictions, such as weather and accommodation availability.
- Driving times indicated in your itinerary are approximate and may vary due to traffic and road conditions.
Format
Locations
Inclusions
- Round-trip flight to South America, arriving in São Paulo and departing from Lima (if the Flight & Hotel option is chosen)
- One-way flights in economy class from: São Paulo-Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro-Foz do Iguaçu, Foz do Iguaçu-Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires-Santiago, Santiago- Calama, Calama- Uyuni, Uyuni-La Paz, La Paz-Cusco, Cusco-Lima
- Shared airport and sightseeing transfers.
- 21 nights accommodation in select category (3 nights in Rio de Janeiro, 2 nights in Foz do Iguaçu, 4 nights in Buenos Aires, 3 nights in Santiago, 1 night in San Pedro de Atacama, 1 night in Ramaditas, 1 night in Colchani, 1 night in La Paz, 1 night in Puno, 2 nights in Sacred Valley, 1 night in Cusco and 1 night in Lima)
- Daily breakfast, unless noted otherwise
- Lunch as per itinerary (soft drinks included)
- More Moments activities included:
- Rio de Janeiro City tour, with Sugarloaf Mountain and cultural stroll through Rio’s Old Town and city centre
- Rio de Janeiro City tour with Corcovado Mountain and Christ the Redeemer
- Iguaçu Falls tour, Brazilian side
- Iguaçu Falls tour, Argentine side
- Buenos Aires half-day city tour
- Tango show and dinner experience in Buenos Aires
- Santiago half-day city tour
- Geysers, Lagoons & Flamingos tour
- Volcanoes, Salt Flats & Andean Icons
- La Paz half-day city tour
- Half-day city tour
- Tiwanaku ruins tour
- Cultural Treasure of the Andes tour
- Full-day Machu Picchu tour
- Sacred Sites of the Inca Empire tour
- Lima half-day city tour
- Hotel taxes
- Fees and service charges
- Service of an English or French-speaking local guide
- Entrance fees for the monuments mentioned in the itinerary
- Earn extra Aeroplan® points per member on this tour
Itinerary
Day 1
Welcome to Rio de Janeiro
Upon arrival at São Paulo International Airport, you will need to clear customs and immigration. After, you’ll collect your luggage and proceed to check in for your connecting flight to Rio de Janeiro/Galeão–Antonio Carlos Jobim International Airport.
Upon arrival, a dedicated driver will welcome you with an Air Canada Vacations sign with your name on it and will take you to your hotel to check in. You’ll spend the rest of the day at your leisure.
Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 2
Rio de Janeiro
After breakfast, your journey continues with an exhilarating city tour, featuring the iconic Sugarloaf Mountain. After descending Sugarloaf Mountain by cable car, your dedicated driver will take you on a guided cultural stroll through Rio’s historic Old Town, immersing you in the city's rich heritage.
Afterwards, you will be transferred back to your hotel. Enjoy the rest of the evening at your leisure.
More Moments Activities Included
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City tour, with Sugarloaf Mountain and cultural stroll through Rio’s Old Town and city center
You’ll begin your adventure with a scenic cable car ride to Urca Mountain, the midway point between ground level and Sugarloaf. Here, you can enjoy a refreshing drink ($) and sample some of Brazil’s signature dishes ($) before continuing your exciting ascent to the summit of Sugarloaf.
Next, you’ll immerse yourself in the rich history of Rio with a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of the old town and city centre, where iconic architecture and lively markets come to life. This unforgettable journey through Rio’s highlights promises a perfect blend of culture, breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable memories.
Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 3
Rio de Janeiro
After breakfast, your dedicated driver will pick you up for an exciting and unforgettable city tour, featuring the world-famous Corcovado Mountain and the iconic Christ the Redeemer.
Afterwards, you will be transferred back to your hotel. Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure.
More Moments Activities Included
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City tour with Corcovado Mountain and Christ the Redeemer
Your dedicated driver will take you to the base of Corcovado Mountain at the Corcovado Train Station, where you will board the train for a scenic ascent through the lush Tijuca Forest, making your way to the summit where the awe-inspiring Christ the Redeemer statue stands. Take in the panoramic views of Rio’s stunning coastline and cityscape, a sight as iconic as the statue itself.
Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 4
Rio de Janeiro – Foz do Iguaçu
After breakfast and checking out, a dedicated driver will take you to Rio de Janeiro/Galeão–Antonio Carlos Jobim International Airport to catch your flight to Foz do Iguaçu International Airport.
Upon arrival, a dedicated driver will welcome you with an Air Canada Vacations sign with your name on it and take you to your hotel to check in. Spend the rest of the day at your leisure.
Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 5
Foz do Iguaçu
After breakfast, you will be taken on a thrilling, expertly crafted tour to explore the majestic Iguaçu Falls on the Brazilian side, where nature’s beauty unfolds before your eyes.
Afterward, you will be transferred back to your hotel. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure.
More Moments Activities Included
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Iguaçu Falls tour, Brazilian side
Start this journey with a visit to the falls. Stroll along peaceful paths that offer spectacular views of over 250 waterfalls, with millions of gallons of water cascading from the Amazon River. The trail leads to the heart of the action at the Devil’s Throat, the largest waterfall in the park. Feel the raw power of the water as it plunges 80 meters into the Iguaçu River, with a walkway bringing you right into the misty spectacle for unforgettable perspectives.
Next, experience the thrill of the Macuco Safari. Drive through the jungle in an open jeep, guided by an expert who shares insights about the local ecology. Continue on foot to the Iguaçu River, then board a motorboat that takes you even closer to the waterfalls, where unique photo opportunities await.
The adventure concludes at the Bird Park, located near Iguaçu National Park. You’ll glimpse exotic bird species as you stroll through the tropical forest, offering a colourful and memorable finale to your day.
Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 6
Foz do Iguaçu – Buenos Aires
After breakfast and checking out, your driver will take you back for another exciting tour of Iguaçu Falls, this time exploring the Argentine side. Don’t forget to bring your passport.
Afterwards, your driver will take you to Foz do Iguaçu International Airport to catch your flight to the Paris of South America, Buenos Aires!
Upon arrival, a dedicated driver will greet you with an Air Canada Vacations sign with your name on it and take you to your hotel to check in. Spend the rest of the evening at your leisure.
More Moments Activities Included
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Iguaçu Falls tour, Argentine side
Embark on an unforgettable adventure to the Argentine side of Iguazu Falls, where breathtaking views and thrilling encounters await. Stroll along lush trails that lead to stunning vantage points, including the iconic Devil's Throat, and feel the exhilarating mist of the cascading waters. Immerse yourself in the vibrant rainforest and discover the incredible wildlife that thrives in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 7
Buenos Aires
After breakfast, get ready for a half-day city tour that will showcase the highlights of South America’s most European and cosmopolitan city. In the evening, immerse yourself in the vibrant culture with a spectacular tango show and dinner.
More Moments Activities Included
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Half-day city tour
Explore the 9 de Julio Avenue, where the renowned Colón Theater and the Obelisk are located. After, you’ll visit the Plaza de Mayo, surrounded by important historic buildings like the Casa Rosada, the Cathedral and the City Hall. A visit to Plaza San Martín, Alvear and Plaza del Congreso is also on the agenda. The tour will then take you along the old-fashioned Avenida de Mayo and the dynamic Avenida Corrientes. Explore neighbourhoods filled with colours and history, like La Boca and San Telmo, as well as the elegant neighbourhoods of Palermo and Recoleta and the modern Puerto Madero.
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Tango show and dinner experience
Enjoy a delicious dinner as you experience Argentina’s spirit firsthand at a restaurant where you will indulge in a delicious meal. After dinner, enjoy a spectacular tango performance by world-class dancers, singers and musicians.
Meal(s): Breakfast and dinner
Days 8 and 9
Buenos Aires
Enjoy two full days at leisure in Buenos Aires, giving you the perfect opportunity to soak in the city’s unique energy and vibrant atmosphere at your own pace. With no set itinerary, these days invite you to relax, explore freely and savour the rhythm and charm that make the city so captivating.
Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 10
Buenos Aires – Santiago
After breakfast and check-out, your driver will transfer you to Ministro Pistarini International Airport for your flight to Santiago, the capital of Chile.
Upon arrival, you’ll complete customs and immigration, collect your luggage and meet your local representative holding a sign with your name. They will escort you to your transfer, where an exciting half-day city tour awaits.
After the tour, you will be taken to your hotel to check in. The remainder of the day is at your leisure to relax and settle in.
More Moments Activities Included
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Half-day city tour
Begin your exploration with a captivating tour of the historical centre, starting at the iconic Plaza de Armas. This expansive square transports you back in time, allowing you to imagine the vibrant scene of bustling markets and merchants while wandering along its cobblestone streets. Surrounding the square are several remarkable monuments, including a tribute to Santiago’s founder, Pedro de Valdivia, as well as the majestic Royal Palace, the Metropolitan Cathedral of Santiago and the elegant Central Post Office Building—each reflecting the city’s rich architectural and cultural heritage.
Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 11
Santiago
Enjoy a full day at your own pace in Santiago, where the rhythm of the city is yours to follow. Whether you choose to relax, wander or simply soak in the vibrant atmosphere, the day is entirely yours to shape.
Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 12
Santiago – Calama – San Pedro de Atacama
After breakfast, your transfer will take you to the Comodoro Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport to catch your flight to Calama, known as “The Gateway to the Atacama Desert.”
Upon arrival at El Loa Airport, you’ll proceed through customs and immigration and collect your luggage. After exiting the baggage claim area, you will be greeted by a local representative holding a sign with your name. They will assist you with your transfer to your hotel in San Pedro de Atacama.
Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure.
Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 13
San Pedro de Atacama – Ramaditas
After breakfast and check out, your local representative will guide you to your next destination, Ramaditas, Bolivia. Along the way, you’ll discover some of Bolivia’s most breathtaking natural wonders.
More Moments Activities Included
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Geysers, Lagoons & Flamingos tour
Your journey will begin with a scenic drive towards Hito Cajón, where you can marvel at the shimmering Green Lagoon and take in the panoramic views of Licancabur Volcano. You’ll continue through the surreal Dali Valley, relax in the Polkes hot springs and witness the bubbling “Sol de Mañana” geysers. You’ll journey onward to the striking Red Lagoon, home to graceful Andean flamingos, then admire the iconic Árbol de Piedra (Stone Tree) before arriving at Ojo de Perdiz.
Meal(s): Breakfast and lunch
Day 14
Ramaditas – Colchani
After breakfast and check out, your local representative will meet you in the hotel lobby to begin your journey to Colchani. Along the way, you can marvel at shimmering high-altitude lagoons, admire the active Ollagüe Volcano from a scenic viewpoint and cross the dazzling Chiguana Salt Flats. Visit San Juan’s archaeological museum before continuing across the iconic Uyuni Salt Flats to Fish Island, home to towering cacti and panoramic views.
After your last visit, you’ll head to your hotel in Colchani. Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure.
More Moments Activities Included
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Volcanoes, Salt Flats & Andean Icons
Begin your adventure with a visit to the shimmering high-altitude lagoons, Onda, Chiar Kota, Hedionda and Cañapa, each offering stunning contrasts of colour and wildlife. Stop at a scenic viewpoint to admire the majestic Ollagüe Volcano, one of the region’s few active volcanoes. Continue across the vast Chiguana Salt Flats before arriving in the village of San Juan to explore its archaeological museum. Journey onward through the iconic Uyuni Salt Flats to Fish Island, home to the world’s tallest cacti. Hike to the summit for breathtaking panoramic views of the endless white desert. After lunch, head toward Uyuni, stopping in Colchani, a charming town dedicated to salt processing and distribution.
Meal(s): Breakfast and lunch
Day 15
Colchani – La Paz
After your breakfast and check out, you will be transferred to Joya Andina Airport for your flight to La Paz, the vibrant capital of Bolivia.
Upon arrival at El Alto International Airport, you’ll collect your luggage and proceed to the exit, where a local representative holding a sign with your name will greet you. They will assist you with your transfer to the hotel.
Once at your hotel, check in and take some time to freshen up before this afternoon’s exciting half-day city tour, offering a first glimpse of La Paz’s unique culture and stunning landscapes.
Afterwards, you will be transferred back to your hotel. Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure.
More Moments Activities Included
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Half-day city tour
Start your adventure with a visit to the Embroiderers’ Street, where vibrant folk costumes and colourful traditional dresses are on display. Continue with an excursion to the historical centre of La Paz, including a stop at the Witches’ Market, home to mystical Andean artifacts, followed by visits to the Church of San Francisco, Murillo Main Square, the Executive Palace, the Legislative Palace and the Metropolitan Cathedral.
Next, enjoy a scenic transfer via cable car, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city on one of the world’s most picturesque and longest urban aerial transport systems. The tour concludes with an unforgettable visit to Moon Valley, located just 10 km from the city centre, where unique geological formations shaped by wind and rain create a striking, lunar-like landscape.
Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 16
La Paz – Tiwanaku – Desaguadero – Puno
After your breakfast and check out, your tour guide will meet you in the hotel lobby to begin your journey to Puno, the gateway to Lake Titicaca.
Along the way, you’ll make a stop at the pre-Incan ruins of Tiwanaku, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to explore its fascinating archaeological treasures. After the visit, you’ll continue your journey toward Desaguadero, the border between Bolivia and Peru.
At the border, you will complete customs and immigration formalities before proceeding into Peru. Once these formalities are complete, your Peruvian tour guide will greet you with a sign bearing your name and escort you to your hotel in Puno.
More Moments Activities Included
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Tiwanaku ruins tour
Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in December 2000, Tiwanaku offers a fascinating glimpse into a pre-Incan civilization. Upon arrival, you’ll begin your visit at the Lithic and Ceramic Museums, where you will receive an introduction to the history and culture of the Tiwanaku people.
Explore the archaeological site on foot, discovering its main temples, including the Pyramid of Akapana, the Semi-Underground Temple and the Kalasasaya Temple, home to the Ponce Monolith and the iconic Gate of the Sun. Each landmark reveals the remarkable architectural and cultural achievements of this ancient civilization.
Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 17
Puno – Cusco – Sacred Valley
After your breakfast and check out, you’ll be transferred to Puno’s Terminal Terrestre for your scenic bus journey to Cusco. This approximately 7-hour ride offers breathtaking views of the Andean highlands, rolling hills and picturesque landscapes along the way. En route, you’ll enjoy a cultural site visit before continuing to Cusco.
Please note: This transfer will be on board a tourist bus; however, it is an independent service, and no guide will accompany you during the ride.
Upon arrival at Cusco’s bus station, a local representative will greet you and assist with your transfer to your hotel in the Sacred Valley. The rest of the day is at your leisure to relax and settle in.
More Moments Activities Included
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Cultural Treasure of the Andes tour
Embark on a fascinating journey through Peru’s rich history and stunning landscapes. Visit Pikillaqta, an ancient pre-Inca archaeological site, then marvel at the baroque church of Andahuaylillas, often called the “Sistine Chapel of the Andes” for its ornate interior. Continue to Raqchi to explore the impressive Temple of Viracocha, a remarkable Inca construction. Enjoy a traditional lunch in Sicuani before the bus ascends to La Raya Pass at 4,200 metres, where the scenery transforms dramatically into breathtaking high-altitude vistas.
Meal(s): Breakfast and lunch
Day 18
Sacred Valley
Enjoy a full day at your own pace in the enchanting Sacred Valley. Immerse yourself in the rhythm and charm of this historic region, where ancient traditions meet breathtaking landscapes. Take time to relax, explore picturesque villages or simply soak in the serene atmosphere surrounded by majestic mountains.
Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 19
Sacred Valley – Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco
After an early breakfast and check out, get ready to embark on the unforgettable highlight of your journey, a full-day adventure to the legendary Machu Picchu!
Upon returning to Aguas Calientes from Machu Picchu, continue your journey to Cusco aboard the train.
Upon arrival at Cusco’s train station, a local representative holding a sign with your name will greet you and assist with your transfer to the hotel to check in. The remainder of the day is at your leisure.
Your journey to Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo, will be aboard the Voyager or Expedition train. Please note that train policies allow each passenger to carry only one small backpack weighing up to 5 kg (11lbs) during the stay at Machu Picchu. We recommend packing light and bringing just the essentials. Items such as sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat and mosquito repellent will help ensure your comfort throughout the excursion. The rest of your luggage will be transferred from your hotel in the Sacred Valley to Cusco.
More Moments Activities Included
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Full-day Machu Picchu tour
The adventure begins aboard the train to Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo, a picturesque town at the foot of the emblematic Inca citadel. During the train ride, you’ll enjoy the natural beauty of the surroundings, with impressive views of majestic mountains, the Vilcanota River and small towns of the Peruvian Andes. After a short bus ride from Aguas Calientes, you’ll reach one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World. From there, explore the ancient ruins to learn about the history of this mystical and impressive place. Surrounded by incomparable landscapes, there will be no shortage of spectacular photo opportunities! Once recharged with the magical energy of Machu Picchu, make your return to Aguas Calientes, where you will have free time to have lunch and explore the streets a bit before boarding your return train.
Meal(s): Breakfast and lunch
Day 20
Cusco – Sacsayhuamán – Qenqo – Puca Pucara – Tambomachay – Lima
After your breakfast and check out, your local tour guide will lead you on an unforgettable journey to discover four remarkable Inca archaeological sites, each offering a glimpse into Peru’s rich history and culture.
Following this exploration, you’ll be transferred to Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport for your flight to Lima, Peru’s cultural and gastronomic capital.
Upon arrival, you’ll collect your luggage and proceed to the exit, where a local representative will greet you with a personalized sign. They will assist with your transfer to the hotel to check in. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure.
More Moments Activities Included
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Sacred Sites of the Inca Empire tour
Your journey begins at the Archaeological Park of Sacsayhuamán, perched high above Cusco. Here, you’ll marvel at its colossal stone walls and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the city.
Next, you’ll visit Tambomachay, a serene site featuring ancient water fountains believed to have been a place of worship. Continue to Qenqo, a fascinating stone labyrinth with a sacrificial altar carved into the rock, offering a glimpse into Inca ceremonial life.
Finally, discover Puca Pucara, the striking red-stone watchtower that once guarded the entrance to Cusco. Each site reveals a unique piece of the Inca legacy, blending history, architecture and nature in perfect harmony.
Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 21
Lima
After breakfast, your local tour guide will meet you in the hotel lobby and take you on an exciting half-day city tour, showcasing the highlights and hidden gems of the destination.
After the tour, you’ll be transferred back to your hotel. The rest of the day is at your leisure.
More Moments Activities Included
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Half-day city tour
Start your day with a guided tour of Lima’s most iconic sights. Begin at the Main Square, where you’ll admire the majestic Cathedral and the historic San Francisco Convent, along with elegant buildings adorned with beautifully restored wooden balconies.
Next, explore Lima’s charming residential districts. In San Isidro, stroll through the serene Olive Grove, and see the prestigious Country Club and Golf Course. Continue to Miraflores, where you’ll visit Central Park, the City Hall and the vibrant shopping streets, including the famous Larco Avenue.
This tour perfectly blends Lima’s rich heritage with its modern elegance, offering a comprehensive introduction to the city’s cultural and architectural treasures.
Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 22
Lima – Canada
After your breakfast and check out, your transfer will take you to Jorge Chávez International Airport for your return flight to Canada.
Meal(s): Breakfast
Accommodations
Where you'll stay
Location
Hotel
Room details
Unless otherwise indicated, guests will stay in a standard room at all hotels during the trip.
Type of bed(s): 1 double bed or 2 twin beds
Room occupancy: Maximum 2 people
Important Information
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Four times per week: Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays — from October 25, 2025, to March 27, 2026, and from October 25, 2026, to March 27, 2027.
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Tours Exclusions:
- Gratuities
- Airport taxes (where applicable)
- Meals outside of the ones mentioned within the itinerary above
- Transfers for any optional activities, and any other transfer services required outside of the itinerary above
- Entrance to other landmarks not mentioned in the itinerary.
- Additional activities and excursions
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Plane: São Paulo – Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro – Foz do Iguaçu, Foz do Iguaçu – Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires – Santiago, Santiago – Calama, Uyuni – La Paz, La Paz – Cusco, Cusco – Lima
Car: San Pedro de Atacama – Uyuni
Car for all airport-hotel, inter-city and sightseeing transfer services