The Explorer
$ 6,054
Info & Booking
The Explorer – Peru | Argentina | Brazil Tour for Young Adults & Young Solo Travellers
The Explorer Tours for Young Adults
The one that gives you Machu Picchu, The Amazon, Iguassu Falls & Rio all in one go
Want a taste of Peru, Argentina & Brazil? This colorful collision of cultures follows Incan footsteps in Machu Picchu, dives into some jungle adventures in the Amazon, teaches you the tango and tastes empanadas in Buenos Aires and gets the party started in the home of Carnival: Rio. Forget just getting a taste – this 18 day odyssey is a feast for the senses.
“70 percent join our trips solo”
“70% of our travellers join our trips solo, so you’ll travel with like-minded young people who want to make friends, experience new things and create lifelong memories. This is the best way to turn solo travel into the most social travel imaginable.” (Cited from the very experienced and internationally popular operator of this tour for young adults. For the latest info and eventual changes see here)
“Most popular youth travel company in the world”
Info by the very experienced and internationally popular operator of this tour for young adults (“Most popular youth travel company in the world”, Wikipedia): “Our trips are exclusively for 18-35s, and whether you join us solo or in a group, our trips are designed so you can share incredible experiences with young travellers just like you.”
Reviews by tour participants:
4.6 out of 5 stars (51 Reviews)* (all reviews and the latest rating available on the details page
Target age group:
18 to 35 (35 to 45 at “Reunion Trips“)
Trip duration and price:
18 days, 3 countries from about $ 5341* (final prices – also in other currencies like British £ or € – available on the booking page)
Destinations:
South America > Peru | Argentina | Brazil
You’ll find all details and eventual changes on the details page
Planned Itinerary:
Day 1: Cusco
Day 2: Cusco
Sacred Valley
Day 3: Sacred Valley
Aguas Calientes
Day 4: Aguas Calientes
Machu Picchu
Cusco
Day 5: Cusco
Day 6: Cusco
Puerto Maldonado
Jungle Lodge
Day 7: Jungle Lodge
Day 8: Jungle Lodge
Puerto Maldonado
Lima
Day 9: Lima
Buenos Aires
Day 10: Buenos Aires
Day 11: Buenos Aires
Day 12: Buenos Aires
Day 13: Buenos Aires
Iguassu Falls
Day 14: Iguassu Falls
Day 15: Iguassu Falls
Rio de Janeiro
Day 16: Rio de Janeiro
Day 17: Rio de Janeiro
Day 18: Rio de Janeiro
Day 1: Start Cusco
Cusco
Welcome to Cusco Contiki crew! After getting acquainted today we’ll have the chance to shop for artisan jewellery and woodworks, roam the cobblestone streets or just stroll the San Pedro markets eating cacao buds and sipping on coca leaf tea. Today really is what you make it as you’re in total control…except for dinner with your new friends – that’s on us.
Selina Saphi (or similar)
Included Meals:
DinnerExplore Cusco on Two Wheels We’ll take a bike tour of Cusco, with a local guide on hand to show us the biggest and best sites.
Additional costs apply
Interactive Peruvian Dining ExperienceAcPeruvian Encounter dining experience where you’ll learn about traditional Peruvian culinary practices and ingredients in Cusco.
Additional costs apply
Day 2: Cusco to Sacred ValleyMake Travel Matter®
Cusco
Heading out of Cusco and bound for the Sacred Valley on our private coach, this is where our journey into the ruins and mystique of this land truly begins. But first, llamas. An iconic symbol of Peru, we’ll be stopping off at a llama farm to show some love to these furry favourites up close, and we’re talking the whole humpback family – llamas, vicuna and alpacas. We’ll then stop off to witness the ancient Incan art of weaving in practise by a group of talented local artisans. Throughout the journey, play close attention to your surrounds – there’s the chance to spot the Incan farming technique of terracing and other local ways of life. Want to know what the Peruvians do for fun? You’ll get the chance to play the traditional game of “Sapo”, and exactly what that entails we’ll leave to the imagination…
Sacred Valley
Our explorations of the Sacred Valley will begin with a guided tour of the Pisac and Ollantaytambo ruins. Our Local Guide will give you the d-l on both, visiting the circular terraced Pisac ruins first which date back to the 1400’s. Moving on to Ollantaytambo, base camp for those taking the trek tomorrow, we’ll appease dry mouths with some homemade Chicha de Jora brew. This tiny town may be small in geographical terms, but what it lacks in size it makes up for in attitude, with artisan shops and cafes spilling out onto streets, and the roaring Urubamba river providing the perfect natural background noise. For those embarking on the Inca trail tomorrow this is your final chance to stock up on last minute essentials (socks, socks and more socks). For all others, spend your time soaking in the vibes, hanging with other travellers and just getting a feel for this iconic little town.
Tunupa Lodge Ollantaytambo (or similar)
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Make Travel Matter®Help Preserve Millenary Traditions (MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience)Learn about the vibrant Andean art of weaving & goldsmithing in Pisac Qolque. Every penny you spend here helps them preserve their time-worn cultural identities & form of self-expression.
Included ExperienceExplore the Sacred ValleySee this former heartland of the Incan Empire and hike around the Pisac ruins. Included ExperienceVisit Pisac Town and Market The sleepy town will give you a taste of local life in the Sacred Valley. Don’t forget to pick up some mementos at the market.
Included ExperienceTaste Local Chicha de JoraAKA ‘corn beer’. This ceremonial bevvy was the drink of choice for Incan nobility.
Day 3: Sacred Valley to Aguas Calientes via Train
Sacred ValleyFor those not embarking on the Inca Trail, the morning is yours to enjoy the surrounding lush mountains of Ollantaytambo.Aguas CalientesCan you feel the excitement mounting? Yep – those are pretty much the feels when Machu Picchu is quite literally on the horizon. This afternoon we’ll hop on the train to Aguas Calientes, a cute town in its own right complete with roaring river, quaint bridges and local haunts, but most famously known as the gateway town to Machu Picchu. We’ll meet up with those who opted for the one day trek, and basically spend the evening hyping each other up for what’s to come tomorrow.
Inka Tower Machupicchu Hotel (or similar)
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Included ExperienceTrain to the Gateway of Machu PicchuFeel the goosebumps of excitement as you glide into Aguas Calientes and get ready to start this life-changing experience.
Go Stand-up Paddle BoardingYou’ll connect with nature, you’ll relax, and you definitely won’t fall off (we promise). If there was ever a sport for everyone, this is it, so don’t miss out.
Additional costs apply
Day 4: Aguas Calientes to Cusco via Machu Picchu
Aguas Calientes
Excitement levels at an all-time high, the day we’ve all been waiting for is finally here – it’s Machu Picchu time! This is one big old tick off the life goals list, so enjoy every single second of it.
Machu PicchuBuilt around 1450 at the height of the Incan Empire, Machu Picchu is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the seven wonders of the new world. We’ll be treated to a guided tour of the site taking in such wonders as the Temple of the Three Windows and Huayna Picchu (the peak you’ll of seen in every Machu Picchu image ever), and of course you’ll have some alone time to explore the area as only you can do. Cusco
Back on the train we’ll de-brief on our once-in-a-lifetime experience as we head back to Cusco. Last time round was all about getting acquainted with the city, so now you’ve got you’re bearings you can really get lost amongst the market stalls and cobbled streets, maybe even going truly local by trying out a serving of cuy.
Selina Saphi (or similar)
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Dinner
Included Experience Entry into Machu Picchu: UNESCO World Heritage SiteIt’s the moment you’ve been waiting for! Time to explore the Incan citadel with your new Contiki fam. #travelgoals
Day 5: Cusco
Cusco
The last few days have been pretty full on, so today is all about seeking out some much needed r’n’r. Grab a lie in at the hotel then sip fresh mountain coffee in the Plaza de Armas, or maybe take a stroll around town to pick up an alpaca sweater or ten (they are super snuggly). Can’t shake that taste for adventure? We hear you.
Selina Saphi (or similar)
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Hike the Rainbow MountainHike the colourful contours of Rainbow Mountain from Cusco (subject to availability).
Additional costs apply
MassageAfter all of the exploring over the past few days, enjoy a blissful 45 minute body massage to relax any sore muscles.
Additional costs apply
Day 6: Cusco to Jungle Lodge
Cusco
Saying a final farewell to Cusco, we’ll hop on our included flight over the Andes to the city of Puerto Maldonado. With the sound of macaws and toucans welcoming us in, this can only mean one thing…it’s jungle time.
Puerto Maldonado
A quick tour of the city will reveal colourful fruit stalls, open air markets and locals going about their day. But now we’re back underway and we just want to get to the jungle…
Jungle Lodge
What’s accessible only by boat, is made from wood and clay and surrounded by the sounds and colours of nature? Answer – our rainforest lodge, your blissful home for the night. We’ll work up a pre-dinner appetite by hiking to the canopy tower, then after a tasty home-cooked dinner continue our outdoor pursuits by heading out to spot caimans – a member of the alligator family native to the Amazon. Tonight promises to be one for the story bank as you fall asleep in your open-walled room to the exotic sounds of the surrounding jungle.
Corto Maltes Amazonia Lodge (or similar)
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Included ExperienceFly to Puerto Maldonado Cameras ready. It’s not every day you get a bird’s eye view of the Amazon rainforestIncluded ExperienceCanopy hike for amazing jungle views at our Jungle Lodge in Puerto MaldonadoIncluded ExperienceOrientation tour of Puerto Maldonado
Day 7: Jungle Lodge
Jungle Lodge
If the vibrant morning song of the jungle birds hasn’t roused you early doors, the prospect of the Sandoval Lake teeming with wildlife will. Our morning canoes will have us spotting prehistoric hoatzin birds and giant river otters. Satisfaction levels on high, the rest of the afternoon is all yours. Tired and hungry after another adventure filled day, we’ll head back to the lodge for the night. After such an epic day of jungle antics, we’re guessing a good night’s sleep and some sweet group hangs are pretty high on the agenda.
Corto Maltes Amazonia Lodge (or similar)
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Included ExperienceTake a canoe through the jungle Cruise down the Amazon river with a local guide. Look out for giant river otters and other local residents.
Day 8: Jungle Lodge to Lima via Puerto Maldonado
Jungle LodgeToday marks our last day in Peru before heading east to Argentina and Brazil, so how better to spend it than one last night in the city where it all began?
Puerto MaldonadoWe’ll catch our flight to our familiar destination, Lima.Lima
Options for your free evening in Lima are varied and endless. Maybe make for the trendy district of Miraflores, hang in Parque Kennedy or opt for one last plate of fresh to death ceviche in the city its best known for. One things for sure, we know you’ll be toasting your Peruvian leg with a final pisco sour, as tomorrow the nectar takes a decidedly red and rich turn as we enter Argentina.
Selina Miraflores (or similar)
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Included ExperienceFly to Lima Get set to land in the gastro capital of Latin America. Where ‘olde worlde’ meets modern-day life, in this sundrenched, clifftop city.
Day 9: Lima to Buenos Aires
Lima
Who’s ready for a new country? That’s right globetrotters, we’re up, up and away again this morning (how many included flights is that now?) in the direction of the Country of Seven Continents. Everything about Argentina gives us the tingles, and we know you’re going to love it just as much as we do. But enough waxing lyrical, we’ve got a new city to conquer…
Buenos Aires
South America’s most cosmopolitan city will spread out before us like a treasure box waiting to be opened as we descend on Buenos Aires, and with 4 nights to spend in the Argentinian capital damn right those are excitement butterflies in your stomach. If the 4.5 hour flight zonked you a bit (just be glad you didn’t do it overland) maybe keep it chilled in the afternoon, but for the balls of energy amongst you we’ve got plenty to keep you entertained. Tonight you’ll meet those joining for the next epic 10 days!
Unique Palacio San Telmo (or similar)
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Included ExperienceFly to Buenos Aires Get some rest before you explore Argentina’s sizzling capital. A city that’s famous for amazing food, good wine, Latin passion and legendary nightlife.
Day 10: Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires
Now’s your opportunity to get the full Porteno (locals from Buenos Aires) experience. This morning why not go check out the colorful La Boca neighbourhood? Tonight we’re heading to a tango show. Have a go yourself, enjoy the first of the Argentine food you’re sure to love, and then watch the pros show you how it’s done.
Unique Palacio San Telmo (or similar)
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Dinner
Included ExperienceTour Buenos Aires with a localExperience the passion and glamour of Argentina’s capital city, with an expert guide showing you the sights. Included ExperienceDo dinner and a Tango show You can’t go to Argentina and not watch live Tango dancing! It’s wrong. Like eating a steak without a glass of red.
Day 11: Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires
Today you’ve got the opportunity to take a day trip to Tigre. Learn about the history and culture of the inhabitants of the “isleños”. If you’d prefer to stay the other side of the border, Buenos Aires is yours to explore today, your way.
Unique Palacio San Telmo (or similar)
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Visit TigreLearn the history and culture of the “isleños” and how the inhabitants of the Delta have developed on the infrastructure of islands and canals.
Additional costs apply
Argentine Food ExperienceExperience an Argentinian feast with a private dining experience in Buenos Aires.
Additional costs apply
Day 12: Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires
Now that you know Buenos Aires like a Porteño the day is yours to explore! Join in a day at the Polo where you’ll learn about the traditional Argentine game, learn how to play and even partake in a game of your own. If you’re more comfortable out on the water, opt to experience the Tigre Delta for the day on a relaxing boat ride, or if you want to stay on dry land enjoy a short bike ride around the surrounding areas. No matter what you choose, we’ll all dive into a delicious regional lunch. Weather permitting you can even swim and kayak. In love with the city life of Buenos Aires? Then spend some time exploring the museums and/or the shops in Palermo. There truly is something for everyone.
Unique Palacio San Telmo (or similar)
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Polo Day TripHave a go at the traditional game of polo, followed by lunch in the Argentinian countryside
Additional costs apply
Day 13: Buenos Aires to Iguassu Falls
Buenos Aires
Rise and shine Latin adventurers, we’ve got yet another included flight to catch – Brazil bound…
Iguassu Falls
Landing in Puerto Iguazu we’ll hop over the border and dig our toes into Brazilian soil for the first time, clapping eyes on yet another astounding natural wonder. Listen out for all those oohhs and aahhs. A collection of 275 individual waterfalls, Iguassu Falls sprawls both Brazil and Argentina, with both sides offering up stunning UNESCO World Heritage parks and views. Today though, is all about the Brazilian side, and what better way to see the falls from every angle than with an optional helicopter ride, taking the term ‘birds eye view’ to a whole new level. Go on – treat yo’ self! For those keeping feet on the ground, take your time exploring the Parque Nacional do Iguaçu. Tonight, dinners packing a serious punch – we’ll be treating you to an authentic Brazilian BBQ dinner. Say hello to the meat sweats…
Foz Plaza Hotel (or similar)
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Dinner
Included ExperienceFly into IguassuGet set to tick another travel goal off the bucket list. We’re jetting straight into the gateway for Iguassu Falls.Included ExperienceExplore Iguassu National ParkThis World Wonder is a fiesta for the imagination. The cascades of spraying waterfalls and subtropical forest make an epic backdrop
Included ExperienceTry churrascaria in Iguassu There ain’t no BBQ like a Brazilian BBQ! Grab your Contiki fam and feast on these grilled skewers. Iguassu Falls HelicopterThe Brazilians truly know how to entertain, don’t they? On this side you can take an optional flight above the Iguazu Falls. Spanning over 2.7 kilometres (1.7 mi), they are made of 275 waterfalls or, as they are called here, cataracts. They are arranged in a way that resembles the letter ‘J’. The Brazilian territory has around 20% of the drops, whereas the Argentinian side makes up for almost 80% of the falls. From a helicopter you will see it all.
Additional costs apply
Day 14: Iguassu Falls
Iguassu Falls
Iguassu we’re not done with you yet! Yesterday was all about the Brazilian side, but today we’re hopping back over to Argentina to see what the deal is from this side of the falls. We’ll take a hike to the very edge of Devil’s Throat, the highest of the 275 falls, and for those keen there’s even the option to take to the water with a speed boat ride through the spray of the falls. Refreshing? Oh you could say that…With a full day spent here, take your time exploring, trying to figure out the age old debate – which side wears it better?
Foz Plaza Hotel (or similar)
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Included ExperienceAdmire Devil’s Throat waterfalls These colossal falls make the ultimate backdrop for a group selfie. Strike a pose with your Contiki fam.Included ExperienceVisit the Argentine side of Iguassu FallsIguassu Falls Jet BoatJet Boat ride under Iguassu Falls
Additional costs apply
Day 15: Iguassu Falls to Rio De Janeiro
Iguassu Falls
Catch you later Iguassu – Rio, we’re coming in hot…
Rio de Janeiro
If Rio knows one thing, it’s how to p-a-r-t-y, so having fun in this life loving city is already a given. But first things first – let’s get acquainted with our surroundings a little better. After a quick orientation tour, the afternoon is then yours to explore as you please, though given our hotel’s beachfront location, we reckon you’ll only have one thing on your mind.
Selina Copacabana (or similar)
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Included ExperienceJet into Rio de JaneiroWoohoo! We’re en route to Brazil’s carnival capital. Try to catch a glimpse of the Christ the Redeemer statue from the sky
Included ExperienceTake a tour of Rio Christ the Redeemer. Sugarloaf. Copacabana. Ipanema. It’s all here to fill up up your heart and your Insta feed.
Sugarloaf Mountain Cable CarCable car ride up the famous Sugarloaf Mountain
Additional costs apply
Churrascaria DinnerTreat yourself to delicious Brazilian BBQ
Additional costs apply
Day 16: Rio De JaneiroMake Travel Matter®
Rio de Janeiro
Today check out the city from above, hang gliding to see Rio in all its scenic glory. Then this afternoon is all yours, and it sounds like Copacabana Beach is calling your name. Or if a game’s in town watch the masters of football do it like no one else can, while you soak in the crazy atmosphere that goes alongside the national sport.
Selina Copacabana (or similar)
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Make Travel Matter®Favela Tour (MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience)
Walk through the Favelas and learn about the communities and their context in regards to Brazilian society and greater Rio.
Hang Gliding over Rio De JaneiroTake to the skies and see the city from an exhilarating point of view
Additional costs apply
Day 17: Rio De Janeiro
Rio de Janeiro
Excuse us while we cry into our caipirinhas – today is our last full day on trip. But before the emotions run too high, let’s make sure we see it out with a bang, Rio style. First up is a visit to Christ the Redeemer, a New Wonder of the World. Standing at an impressive 30m high (98ft), this religious monument casts an almighty shadow over the city below, and will be a moment you won’t be forgetting anytime soon. This afternoon, how does a boat cruise sound? Featuring cocktails, tunes and good times, it’d be rude not to. Afterwards, we’ll enjoy an included farewell dinner together.
Selina Copacabana (or similar)
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Dinner
Included Experience See Christ the Redeemer This needs no introduction. Tick this iconic statue off your #travelgoals bucket list. And don’t forget your camera.
Included ExperienceGuanabara Bay CruiseTake a cruise along the arcing Guanabara Bay and enjoy Caiprinas and music
Day 18: End Rio De Janeiro
Rio de Janeiro
This morning, this adventure of epic proportion will finally come to an end. Hug it out with the new friends you now class as family, and damn right you’re already on those reunion tour plans. Europe next summer, anyone?
Included Meals:
Breakfast
You’ll find all details and eventual changes on the details & booking page
Some of the Highlights:
Included Experience
Visit the Argentine side of Iguassu Falls
INCLUDED
Included Experience
Guanabara Bay Cruise
Take a cruise along the arcing Guanabara Bay and enjoy Caiprinas and music
INCLUDED
Sugarloaf Mountain Cable Car
Cable car ride up the famous Sugarloaf Mountain
ADDITIONAL COST APPLIED
Churrascaria Dinner
Treat yourself to delicious Brazilian BBQ
ADDITIONAL COST APPLIED
Trip Highlights
The must do experiences that you can cross off your bucket list
You’ll find all highlights and eventual changes on the details page
FAQs:
You’ll find all FAQs and the latest info on the details page
Included Meals:
17 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 7 Dinners
You’ll find all details and eventual changes on the details page
Team:
Expert Trip Manager + Driver Team + Local Guides
You’ll find all details and eventual changes on the details page
Group Size:
Maximum 30 people
You’ll find all details and eventual changes on the details page
Transfers:
Coach, Mini-Van, Plane
You’ll find all details and eventual changes on the details page
More Details:
You’ll find all details and the latest updates on the details & booking page
(Partially) travel with a nice group or entirely travel solo?
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