Tour Description

Journey through Chile, Argentina and Brazil, starting in Santiago, where you'll stroll the streets with a local guide to Plaza de Armas and the Central Market. Travel into the Aconcagua Valley and visit a historic winery, then cross the winding Los Caracoles Pass into Mendoza, for Malbec tastings and an olive oil factory tour. Continue to Buenos Aires and learn the steps of tango and the art of fileteado. Then, head north to the mighty Iguazu Falls before finishing in Rio de Janeiro. Wiggle your toes in the sand at the Copacabana and Ipanema beaches, sip caipirinhas and drink in the sunset views from Sugarloaf Mountain.

Priced From:

$ 13060.00pp ^*

Valid From: 01JAN2027

Valid To: 31DEC2027

Start Location: Santiago de Chile

End Location: Rio de Janeiro

Countries: Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Uruguay,

Tour Advisors

Beccy Hayes

Travel Specialist

Tiffany McCrea-Lennon

Managing Director

Russell Mein

Travel Specialist

Caitlin Lennon

Travel Coordinator

Gaylyn Murdoch

Administration Manager

Holly Skene

Travel Co-ordinator

Kim Thomas

Broker

Highlights

Sip your way through Mendoza – Argentina's most significant grape-growing region – on a full-day winery tour, then visit an olive oil factory.

Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Colonia de Sacramento on a day trip into Uruguay and get to know the city through its cobbled streets and historic buildings.

Look for rainbows in the mist from both the Brazilian and Argentinian sides as you marvel at the power of Iguazu Falls which are higher than Niagara Falls and wider than Victoria Falls.

Buenos Aires offers an eclectic mix of European, Cosmopolitan and Latin flavours, as well as a booming cultural and nightlife scene. Explore the neighbourhoods of this lively, confident city on a full-day tour with a local guide.

Gaze over the dazzling city, mountains and bay of Rio de Janeiro from the foot of the famous Christ the Redeemer statue and immerse yourself in Brazilian culture, dance and music.

Itinerary

Bienvenidos! Welcome to Chile. When you arrive in Santiago, you’ll be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Your adventure officially begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. Santiago hums with creative energy. Galleries, late-night bars and acclaimed restaurants sit alongside museums and neighbourhoods shaped by diverse cultural influence. It’s no wonder 40 per cent of Chileans call the leafy capital city home. If you arrive early, this city is perfect for strolling and each neighbourhood has a unique flavour and tone. After the meeting tonight, maybe head out for dinner at one of the great local restaurants – your leader will have some suggestions!

After breakfast, discover Santiago’s architecture and urban landscapes with a local guide. Begin in the heart of the city at Cerro Santa Lucia, where Santiago was founded, before passing historic churches, European-inspired neighbourhoods and some of the capital’s most emblematic civic buildings. Along the way, you’ll see the impressive Palacio de La Moneda, wander through the financial district and learn about the events that have shaped modern Chile. Continue to Plaza de Armas, the city’s historic main square, then head to the lively Central Market to taste mote con huesillo (a traditional non-alcoholic drink made with dried and cooked peaches with a touch of chancaca and spices). Finish the walk in Santiago’s cultural quarter, passing the Fine Arts Museum and a few beautiful parks before returning to your hotel.

This morning, set off from Santiago to the small city of Los Andes to the north, near the Andes Mountains. On the way, you’ll have a winery tour and tasting at Sanchez de Loria Winery in the heart of the Aconcagua Valley. This family-owned estate has been crafting exceptional wines since 1890. Explore its historic vineyards, traditional winery facilities, the family wine cellar and the manor house for a peek into Chile’s rich winemaking heritage. Tonight you’re free to spend some downtime at the hotel or rally your group for dinner and a glass of local wine.

Travel to Mendoza today, crossing the breathtaking Los Caracoles Mountain Pass in the Andes, the famous zigzagging mountain road that connects Chile and Argentina. Along the way, stop at the turquoise Laguna del Inca, explore the iconic natural rock formation of Puente del Inca and take in panoramic views of Aconcagua – the highest peak in the Western Hemisphere at 6962 m (22,841 ft) above sea level. When you arrive in Mendoza, go for a walk with your leader. Check out the city’s tree-lined spaces and get a taste of local life along the bustling street Peatonal Sarmiento. Tonight, you may opt to head out to dinner with your group at a local restaurant.

Today, you’ll explore the Mendoza region, where nearly three-quarters of Argentina’s wine is produced – including the signature Malbec. Sip at the source during tours and tastings at two world-class and innovative wineries. Meet with a local wine expert and learn about the different varieties of grapes and production methods used at each winery, then sample some award-winning vintages. Have lunch at the winery, then visit an olive oil factory where you’ll learn how it’s produced and, of course, taste the best varieties.

Today, fly from the vineyards of Mendoza to the colourful streets of Buenos Aires. When you arrive, you can spend the afternoon soaking up the Argentinean capital’s mix of European and Latin culture on an orientation walk with your leader. In the evening, learn some new moves at a tango class with your group, then have dinner and watch a spectacular live tango show at El Aljibe.

Today, take a ferry across the Rio de la Plata to Colonia del Sacramento. When you arrive, take a walking tour along this UNESCO World Heritage site’s cobblestone streets with your leader. The city was founded in 1680 by the Portuguese and sandwiched in between the Portuguese colony of Brazil and the Spanish vice Royalty of the River Plate (later Argentina, Uruguay and Southern Brazil). Head to the top of the lighthouse for a great view of the city and river. Sit down to a traditional Uruguayan lunch, then take the ferry back to Buenos Aires.

Start the day exploring the streets of the San Telmo neighbourhood – one of Buenos Aires’ oldest neighbourhoods and an open-air museum where fileteado decorates every corner. This traditional art form, known for its stylised lines and drawings of colourful, climbing flowers, is deeply woven into the porteno (a person from Buenos Aires) identity. Then, visit San Pedro Gonzalez Telmo Church, home to several works by master artist Martiniano Arce, and make your way to the iconic San Telmo Market. After, it’s your chance to get artsy during a fileteado workshop. Learn the techniques and secrets of fileteado with a master artist. Create your own piece to take home as a keepsak, then tuck into a traditional asado (barbecue) dinner. Chat with your friendly host about their life here while feasting on meats, cheese and plenty of local wine.

The day is free to do as you like before another meeting tonight at 6 pm, where you'll meet the new travellers joining your group. Maybe take a boat ride on the scenic Tigre Delta, take a tour of the Teatro Colon or wander the aisles of the El Ateneo Grand Splendid – set in an opulent 1919 theatre, this is one of the world's most beautiful bookstores. After your meeting, perhaps head out to dinner with the group – your leader will have some great recommendations for those wishing to sample Argentina’s world-renowned steak.

Today, explore Buenos Aires on a half-day tour with a local guide. Starting in Plaza de Mayo, explore the city’s most famous sights with highlights, including San Telmo, one of the oldest neighbourhoods in Buenos Aires, and La Boca, where you’ll visit iconic Caminito Street, which gives the neighbourhood its distinctive spirit. After lunch, your exploration continues towards Retiro and Recoleta, where you’ll learn about the families who sought to build a small‐scale Paris in the heart of Buenos Aires and see the ornate mausoleums at one of the world’s most famous cemeteries. This evening is free to enjoy your way.

This morning, you’ll fly to Puerto Iguazu in the northeast corner of Argentina where mighty Iguazu Falls straddles the border of Argentina and Brazil. Iguazu Falls are higher than Niagara Falls, wider than Victoria Falls and a truly epic sight. Take a trip across the border to Brazil to admire panoramic views of multiple thundering waterfalls. You may like to take an optional helicopter flight over the top of the falls for a more panoramic view. Tonight, spend the night in Foz do Iguazu (Brazil), resting up before a big day exploring the Argentinian side of the falls tomorrow.

A visit to the Argentinian side of Iguazu today allows you to get up close to the waterfalls via a series of boardwalks. According to Guarani legend, Iguazu Falls was created when the serpent god M’Boy, enraged by the betrayal of a chieftain’s daughter who was promised to him, split the river in half. For a more exhilarating experience, take an optional Zodiac boat ride to the base of the falls. This afternoon, join your leader for a visit to a Guarani community where you’ll meet some of the region’s few remaining Indigenous people. Learn about the Guarani way of life and how they have preserved their traditions on the edge of one of the world’s most popular attractions. Return to your hotel on the Brazilian side of the falls.

Take an early-morning flight from Foz do Iguacu to Rio. The locals say that 'if God made the world in six days, he devoted the seventh to Rio.’ The day is yours to do what you like. For relaxation and people-watching, head to the beaches of Copacabana or Ipanema. If the time of year is right, check out a football game or a Carnival rehearsal. As evening approaches, perhaps grab dinner with your group before getting sweaty with the locals in the samba clubs of bohemian Lapa.

It's an early start this morning as we embark on a guided tour of Rio, starting at Corcovado Mountain for sweeping views over Rio from the base of the Christ the Redeemer statue before the crowds arrive. Discover the eclectic architecture, restaurants and art galleries of the artistic neighbourhood of Santa Teresa. Then continue to the colourful Selaron Steps to see artist Jorge Selaron’s gift to the Brazilian people, a staircase with 215 steps that’s decorated with thousands of tiles collected from over 60 countries around the world. This evening, visit Sugar Loaf Mountain to see the sunset over the Christ the Redeemer statue before a farewell dinner. A fun local restaurant, specialising in smoky grilled seafood and meat with fresh, zesty salads, is the ideal place to celebrate your time together.

With no activities planned for today, you are free to depart at any time. That doesn’t mean your adventure has to come to an end. If you would like to continue soaking up the sun in Rio, we’ll be happy to book additional accommodation (subject to availability).

Dates & prices

Dates

Prices

Availability

Departure Date :

08JAN2027

Return Date :

22JAN2027

13060.00NZD

available

Departure Date :

12FEB2027

Return Date :

26FEB2027

13060.00NZD

available

Departure Date :

12MAR2027

Return Date :

26MAR2027

13060.00NZD

available

Departure Date :

26MAR2027

Return Date :

09APR2027

13060.00NZD

available

Departure Date :

09APR2027

Return Date :

23APR2027

13060.00NZD

available

Departure Date :

04JUN2027

Return Date :

18JUN2027

13060.00NZD

available

Departure Date :

13AUG2027

Return Date :

27AUG2027

13060.00NZD

available

Departure Date :

24SEP2027

Return Date :

08OCT2027

13060.00NZD

available

Departure Date :

29OCT2027

Return Date :

12NOV2027

13060.00NZD

available

Departure Date :

12NOV2027

Return Date :

26NOV2027

13060.00NZD

available

Trip Notes

Trip title

Best of Chile, Argentina & Brazil

Trip code

GGKSC

Validity

Validity: 01 Jan 2027 to 31 Dec 2027

Extended validity

01 Dec 2028

Introduction

Style

Comfort

Themes

Explorer

Transport

Plane, Private vehicle, Boat

Physical Rating

Joining point

NH Ciudad De Santiago Hotel

Avenida Condell, 40, 7500711, Santiago De Chile, CHILE

Santiago de Chile

CHILE

Phone: +56 223417575

Joining point instructions

A complimentary airport arrival transfer is included; valid if you are arriving on Day 1 or if you have booked pre-tour accommodation through us. You must provide your flight details to your booking agent at least 14 days prior to travel. For your confirmed arrival transfer, you’ll be met at GATE 4 by a transfer representative holding an Intrepid sign. Please ask them who they’re picking up to confirm you’ve met the correct transfer representative. Neither the driver nor any representative should ask you for additional payment. Confirm your booking code with the representative before following them anywhere. Be aware that taxi and transfer scam artists are very common in Santiago. If you can’t find your driver, please call our emergency phone: +51 996 055559 or +51 940 512701 before taking a taxi on your own. In case of flight cancellations, changes, or unforeseen delays, please contact our local office on the number in the ‘Problems and emergency contact information’ section. Free Wi-Fi is available at the airport.

Finish point

Americas Copacabana Hotel

Rua Barata Ribeiro 550 Copacabana

Rio de Janeiro

RJ, 22040-001

BRAZIL

Phone: +55 2134459666

Important information

1. A complimentary airport arrival transfer is included; valid if you are arriving on Day 1 or if you have booked pre-tour accommodation through us. You must provide your flight details to your booking agent at least 14 days prior to travel. 2. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights of your trip and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information. 3. This trip includes domestic flights. The luggage allowance is 15kg for check in luggage and 5kg for carry on. Should you wish to bring heavier luggage it is possible to increase your allowance by paying a fee at check in. 4. Full name exactly as per passport is required at the time of booking (including any middle names listed on the passport), for activity and transport bookings. Ticketing fees may apply for amendments to details within 45 days of departure, and in some cases you will be required to cover the cost of issuing a new ticket. 5. We highly recommend you take US Dollars with you to Argentina and change it locally. While ATMs are widely available, there is a daily limit for withdrawals and the exchange rate does fluctuate.

Group leader

All group trips are accompanied by a group leader or local representative. The aim of the group leader or local representative is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. Intrepid endeavours to provide the services of an experienced group leader or local representative however, due to the seasonality of travel, rare situations may arise where they may be new to a particular region or training other staff. Your group leader or local representative will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not always being guides in the traditional sense, you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the places visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious, and social aspects. We often support additional local guides who have specialised knowledge of the regions we visit. If you are interested in delving deeper into the local culture at a specific site or location we may be able to recommend a additional local guide service in the main destinations of your trip.

Safety

TRAVEL ADVISORIES & ALERTS We recommend that you check your government's foreign travel advisory for the latest information about the destination before you travel. You will also need to ensure that your travel insurance covers you for all destinations and activities on your trip. We also recommend saving the phone number for emergency consular assistance for your government’s consulate in the destination/s you’ll be travelling. Links to travel advisories and any current travel alerts for our trips can be found here: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/travel-alerts PERSONAL SAFETY Ensure you have a secure method of carrying your passport, phone, credit cards and cash while travelling such as a money belt. Leave all other high-value items, including jewellery, at home.Use safety deposit boxes at hotels to store your valuables when available and ensure your luggage is lockable. Be aware of the risk of pick-pocketing and petty theft. Exercise caution when walking at night, don’t walk alone and stick to well-lit streets wherever possible. Be vigilant on public transport and look out for your fellow travellers. Take precautions such as carrying your bag in front of you and never leaving personal items unattended. LGBTQIA+ TRAVELLERS Intrepid welcomes all LGBTQIA+ customers on our trips, however we operate in parts of the world that are less accepting. We support LGBTQIA+ customers to travel to these destinations and are committed to ensuring they face no discrimination on any part of the trip we control. We recommend you visit Equaldex (https://www.equaldex.com/) and your government's foreign travel advice for LGBTQIA+ travellers when choosing your trip.

PETTY THEFT AND PERSONAL SAFETY While travelling there is always the risk of pick-pocketing and petty theft, particularly in the more touristy cities. We recommend that you exercise caution when walking alone at night and encourage you to walk together and only on main, well-lit thoroughfares. Be particularly vigilant on public transport. Simple measures like carrying your day pack on your front, not hanging your bag over the back of your chair or on the floor and wearing a money belt will reduce any chance that your valuables should go missing.

FIRE PRECAUTIONS Local laws governing tourism facilities in this region may differ from those in your home country and accommodation we use may not have a fire exit, fire extinguishers or smoke alarms.

SEAT BELTS: Please be aware that local laws governing transportation safety may differ from those in your home country and not all the transport which we use is able to provide seat belts.

Communications

INTREPID APP Make your journey smoother with the Intrepid app. Access this Essential Trip Information anytime, get real-time trip updates, connect with your leader and fellow travellers, and share your experiences along the way. Learn more: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/au/app All our trips will be live in the Intrepid app by the end of 2026. We appreciate your patience while we work towards a seamless experience for all of our travellers.

Visas

PASSPORT You’ll need a valid passport to travel internationally and most countries require your passport to have a minimum of 6 months validity, so remember to check the expiry date. We need your passport information to get everything ready for your trip so it’s important that the information on your booking matches your passport exactly. Please take care to provide the correct details. We recommend carrying a copy of the photo page of your passport while travelling and leaving a copy at home with family or friends. VISAS & ENTRY REQUIREMENTS You are responsible for obtaining relevant visa and travel information required for entry, departure and travel to each country or region you visit on your trip.  We recommend you check your visa requirements as soon as you have booked your trip. This will ensure you have time to prepare your documents and for your visa application to be processed. You can check the entry requirements for your nationality on your government's foreign travel advisories, consular websites or on our page here: http://www.intrepidtravel.com/visa-entry-requirements

Why we love it

Sip your way through Mendoza – Argentina's most significant grape-growing region – on a full-day winery tour, then visit an olive oil factory.

Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Colonia de Sacramento on a day trip into Uruguay and get to know the city through its cobbled streets and historic buildings.

Look for rainbows in the mist from both the Brazilian and Argentinian sides as you marvel at the power of Iguazu Falls which are higher than Niagara Falls and wider than Victoria Falls.

Gaze over the dazzling city, mountains and bay of Rio de Janeiro from the foot of the famous Christ the Redeemer statue and immerse yourself in Brazilian culture, dance and music.

Is this trip right for you

There are several orientation walks and city tours during this trip so there will be quite a lot of walking. It’s important to always bring plenty of water, wear comfortable walking shoes and ensure you use adequate sun protection.

Health

GENERAL HEALTH All travellers need to be in good physical health in order to participate fully on this trip. For the safety and wellbeing of yourself and others, if you are unwell prior to travelling, please stay at home and contact us to make alternative arrangements. When selecting your trip please make sure you have read through the itinerary carefully and assess your ability to manage and enjoy our style of travel. Please note that if in the assessment of our group leader or local representative a traveller is unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group, we reserve the right to exclude them from all or part of a trip without refund. You should consult your doctor for up-to-date travel health information or for any necessary vaccinations before departure. We recommend that you carry a first aid kit as well as any personal medical requirements in their original packaging as they may not easily be obtained while travelling. If you are carrying medication, ensure you check your government's foreign travel advice for any local restrictions or requirements. , YELLOW FEVER Many countries require a physical international yellow fever vaccination certificate at point of entry, if you have visited an at-risk country recently, and will deny entry if you can’t provide adequate proof of vaccination. Please speak to your doctor, early, about what vaccinations are required for the countries you’re visiting. You can also visit the World Health Organisation website for up to date information about at-risk countries: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/yellow-fever, MOSQUITO-BORNE ILLNESSES: Some regions of Central & South America can experience outbreaks of dengue fever. There is no vaccination against it, but there are preventative measures that you can take such as wearing long clothing, using repellent, and being indoors particularly around dusk and dawn. If you have a fever or feel unwell, please let your group leader or local representative know right away. Protect yourself against mosquito-borne illnesses such as malaria by taking measures to avoid insect bites., ZIKA VIRUS: There have been reports of transmission of the mosquito-borne Zika virus in this region and we advise all travellers to protect themselves from mosquito bites. Given possible transmission of the disease to unborn babies, and taking a very cautious approach, we recommend all women who are pregnant or trying to get pregnant to consult with their doctors before booking their trip., DENGUE FEVER: Dengue Fever is common in Latin America and can occur throughout the year. Argentina, Bolivia, Uruguay, Brazil, and parts of Mexico are currently suffering from a serious outbreak. This virus is transmitted by mosquitoes. There is no vaccination against it, but there are preventative measures that you can take such as wearing long clothing, using repellent, and being indoors particularly around dusk and dawn.

Food and dietary requirements

While travelling with us you'll experience the vast array of wonderful food available in the world. Your group leader or local representative will be able to suggest restaurants to try during your trip. To give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat, generally not all meals are included in the trip price. This also gives you more budgeting flexibility. As a rule, our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. If you have dietary requirements and/or food allergies, please let your booking agent know prior to departure.

Money matters

SPENDING MONEY When it comes to spending money on the trip, every traveller is a little different. You know your spending habits better than we do, so please budget an appropriate amount for things like optional meals, drinks, shopping, optional activities, and laundry. Make sure you have read the itinerary and inclusions thoroughly so you know what is included in the trip price and what you may need to pay for while travelling., CREDIT CARDS, ATMS AND EXCHANGING MONEY ATMs are widely available in major towns and cities across South America. Credit cards are generally accepted in tourist shops and some restaurants across South America. Visa and Mastercard are preferred. Smaller shops and restaurants only accept cash. USD cash is the easiest to exchange. We recommend bringing large bills in good condition, 2013 series onwards only. Any old or damaged notes may not be accepted., ARGENTINA Credit cards are widely accepted but banking facilities, such as ATMs have a daily limit for withdrawals and the exchange rate fluctuates. We recommend you take USD cash with you to Argentina and change it locally to Argentinian Pesos (ARS) to obtain the best exchange rate and to use for small day to day expenses. , BRAZIL Credit cards are widely accepted, but banking facilities, such as ATMs, may be unreliable. Withdrawing money can be difficult and you may need to try several to find one that works for your cards. We recommend discussing your travel plans with your bank, prior to leaving home. Credit card fraud and ATM tampering are widespread. To combat this, many ATMs cap withdrawals at BRL 1000 per withdrawal (2000 per day). If you withdraw cash at an ATM and the money has pink marks on it, speak to the bank (or police) straight away to get it changed as it may have been marked as damaged or counterfeit., TIPPING Tipping can be an appropriate way to recognise great service when travelling. While it may not be customary in your home country, it is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry across many of our destinations and is greatly appreciated by the people who take care of you during your travels. It is always best to avoid tipping with coins, very small denomination notes, or dirty and ripped notes, as this can be regarded as an insult rather than the goodwill gesture it is intended to be., OPTIONAL TIPPING KITTY On Day 1 of your trip, your group leader or local representative may discuss with you the idea of operating a group tipping kitty, whereby everybody contributes an equal amount and your group leader or local representative distributes tips for drivers, local guides, hotel staff and other services included on your trip. Participation in this kitty is your choice, and you are welcome to manage your own tipping separately if you prefer. The group leader or local representative will keep a running record of all monies spent, which can be checked at any time. Any funds remaining at the end of the trip will be returned to group members. These tips to suppliers are for great service and are in addition to the regular costs paid for the services supplied. The tipping kitty excludes tips for your group leader or local representative, and providers of optional activities., Optional tipping kitty for this trip: USD 125 per person (can be paid in local currency)., YOUR GROUP LEADER OR LOCAL REPRESENTATIVE Tipping your group leader or local representative is highly appreciated if you feel they’ve provided outstanding services throughout your trip. The amount is entirely a personal preference; however, as a guideline, the recommended amount is 4-7 USD or EUR per traveller per day (in a currency relevant to your destination). Of course, you are free to tip more or less as you see fit, depending on your perception of service quality and the length and involvement of your group leader or local representative on your trip., CONTINGENCY FUNDS We try to plan for every eventuality, but there are still some things beyond our control. We reserve the right to change an itinerary after departure due to local circumstances or a Force Majeure Event. In such emergency circumstances, the additional cost of any necessary itinerary alterations will be covered by you. We are not responsible for any incidental expenses that may be incurred because of changes to itineraries, including but not limited to visas, vaccinations or non-refundable flights. Make sure you have access to an extra USD 500 for emergencies (e.g. severe weather, natural disasters, civil unrest) or other events that result in unavoidable changes to the itinerary (e.g. transport strikes or cancellations, airport closures). Sometimes these things necessitate last-minute changes to enable our trips to continue to run, and as a result, there may be some extra costs involved. The recommended amount is listed in USD for the relatability of all travellers; however, local currency may be needed once in the country to cover these costs. Please confirm with your leader on Day 1 if you need to carry this in cash, or whether access via card or electronically is sufficient.

What to take

Most travellers prefer to take a small to medium wheeled suitcase, which is a great size for the packing capacity in our private vehicles. Whatever you take, be mindful that you will need to be able to carry your own luggage, handle it at airports, take it in/out of accommodation and perhaps even walk short distances. We recommend you pack as lightly as possible. If your trip includes travelling on overnight trains or primarily using public transport, the smaller your luggage, the easier it will be to store under or above bunks. Large suitcases may not be able to be taken on board. A lockable bag or small padlock for your bag will be useful, especially when travelling on public transportation as well. When you're exploring during the day, you'll also need a day pack/bag to carry water, a camera, a jacket and activity-specific items like a swimsuit, a waterproof pouch/bag for your phone, or hiking shoes. Below we have listed the essentials for this trip:

https://www.intrepidtravel.com/packing-list

WATER BOTTLE Please bring your own water bottle to refill. Although it can be difficult to avoid bottled water when travelling, please use the water dispensers which are provided on some of our vehicles and at some of our accommodation. When unable to avoid bottled water, it is better to buy the largest available and distribute it into your smaller bottle for the day. Some travellers like to bring a bottle with its own filtration system or water purification tablets. If you are walking or trekking as part of your trip, you will need to carry at least 2 litres of water with you.

Climate and seasonal

RIO CARNIVAL The biggest party of the year, Carnival is held every year before Lent and considered the biggest carnival in the world with two million people per day on the streets. The Carnival integrates Brazil’s European & African traditions, alongside the rich culture of music and samba. Upcoming Carnival dates are: 12 – 17 February 2026 04 – 09 February 2027, RAINY SEASON IN BRAZIL The rainy season runs from November until March in the south and south east (including in Rio de Janeiro). In the north east it runs from April until July. Heavy rains can often disrupt infrastructure, particularly in rural areas. Flash floods and landslides, especially in poorer urban areas, are common during heavy rains. Heavy rainfall in Rio de Janeiro (particularly between January and March) can lead to landslides and localised flash floods including in tourist areas due to the proximity of the mountains to the coast. Be alert to local authority warnings which are displayed on digital signs in the street and sent to accommodation providers.

A couple of rules

Intrepid won't tolerate any kind of violence, harassment (whether physical, verbal or sexual), or disrespect toward fellow travellers, our teams or local communities. To ensure the wellbeing of everyone on the trip, decisions made by your group leader are final. Romantic relationships between travellers and group leaders or local representatives are not permitted while on trip. Any behaviour that prevents your leader from continuing the itinerary as planned, breaks local laws or opposes any of these guidelines may result in Intrepid denying your booking or removing you from the trip. If something concerns you during your travels, please speak to your group leader immediately. Alternatively, you can contact us on the emergency contact number detailed in the Problems and Emergency Contact Information section of this Essential Trip Information.

Feedback

Can’t stop thinking about your adventure? Tell us all about it! We read each piece of feedback carefully and use it to make improvements for travellers like you. Share your experience with us at: http://www.intrepidtravel.com/feedback/

Emergency contact

While we always endeavour to provide the best possible holiday experience, due to the nature of travel and the areas we visit sometimes things can and do go wrong. Should any issue occur while you are on your trip, it is imperative that you discuss this with your group leader or local representative straight away so that they can do their best to rectify the problem and save any potential negative impact on the rest of your trip. We recognise that there may be times when your group leader or local representative may not be able to resolve a situation to your satisfaction - if this is the case, please ask the group leader or local representative to speak to their direct manager. You may also choose to provide details in your online feedback, which we ask you to complete within 30 days of the end of your trip. Please do be aware that it is very difficult for us to provide any practical help after the trip is completed, so informing us while still travelling will give us the opportunity to resolve the issue in real-time., For general contact details please use the following page: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/contact-us, In case of a genuine crisis or emergency, you can reach our local office on the numbers below: , Available for phone call or WhatsApp call on +51 996 055559 Lima, +51 940 512701 Cusco

Responsible travel

Our Responsible Travel Policy outlines our commitment to preserving the environment, supporting local communities, protecting the vulnerable, and giving back to the places we travel. All our group leaders and local representatives, suppliers, and staff are trained on these principles and are core to us delivering sustainable, experience-rich travel. Explore the different parts of our Responsible Travel Policy by visiting: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/responsible-travel

The Intrepid Foundation

Our non-profit, The Intrepid Foundation, gives travellers more opportunities to make a positive impact in the places they visit. We have over 50 Intrepid Foundation partners across the globe addressing four key focus areas: protecting the environment, taking a stand for wildlife, addressing inequality and empowering communities. Intrepid matches all post-trip donations dollar for dollar and takes care of the admin fees – this doubles your impact and ensures every cent goes to our partners on the ground. Visit our website for more info: http://www.theintrepidfoundation.org/

Accommodation notes

The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline only and may change. On some occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our preferred accommodation. In these cases, we will use a similar standard of accommodation. Throughout the trip, we request that our properties prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However, this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination or on some trips, have use of shared day rooms until all rooms are available.

Travel insurance

Travel insurance is compulsory on all our trips for those travelling internationally. We require that, at a minimum, you are covered for medical expenses, including emergency repatriation. If you are travelling within your home country or region, please confirm before travel that you are entitled to access the public medical system easily should an accident occur. We strongly recommend all travellers have a policy that also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage or personal effects. For international trips, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance and the insurance company's 24-hour emergency contact number has been sighted by your group leader or local representative. If you have credit card insurance, your group leader or local representative will require details of the participating insurer/underwriter, the level of coverage, policy number, and emergency contact number, rather than the bank's name and your credit card details. Please contact your bank for these details prior to arriving in-country. For travellers who reside within the European Union, Switzerland or the USA, the requirement to purchase travel insurance cannot be compulsory. However, the purchase of travel insurance is still highly recommended, and each country you visit may have its own specific entry requirements. For example, some mandate travel health insurance for all foreign travellers, regardless of their nationality. Travellers from the European Union, Switzerland or the USA who decline travel insurance when travelling outside their home region must sign a Travel Insurance Waiver Form at the Group Meeting, recognizing personal responsibility for emergency medical and repatriation costs should they arise. For assistance with travel insurance or other services, please visit the link below: , https://www.intrepidtravel.com/booking-resources/our-services

Your fellow travellers

As you travel on a group trip you will be exposed to all the pleasures and maybe some of the frustrations of travelling in a group. Your fellow travellers will probably come from all corners of the world and likely a range of age groups too. We ask you to be understanding of the various needs and preferences of your group - patience with your fellow travellers is sometimes required for the benefit of everyone's travel experience. Remember too that you have responsibilities to the group. If you are requested to be at a place at a certain time, ensure that you don't keep the rest of the group waiting. We have found time and time again that the very best trips we operate are those where the dynamics within the group work well - this takes just a little effort on your part. Due to privacy reasons, we are unable to provide you with contact details and any personal information about your fellow travellers booked on your trip prior to departure., SOLO TRAVELLERS On our trips, rooming is organised on a twin-share basis. We pair up solo travellers with another traveller of the same gender, as per the gender marker on each of their passports. We also offer an optional single supplement on most trips for travellers who prefer to have their own room. This only applies to accommodation during the tour. Pre-trip and post-trip accommodation booked through us will always be on a single-room basis. On a small selection of trips some accommodation will be open-gender and multishare, such as a felucca in Egypt or an overnight train in Vietnam. Please review the Accommodation section of the Essential Trip Information for details about your trip. LGBTQIA+ TRAVELLERS We strive to create a safe and inclusive environment for everyone. If your gender identity differs from what is indicated on your passport, please contact us so that we can discuss rooming options with you.

Itinerary disclaimer

ITINERARY CHANGES Our itineraries are updated regularly throughout the year based on customer feedback and to reflect the current situation in each destination. The information included in this Essential Trip Information may therefore differ from when you first booked your trip. It's important that you review this information prior to travel so that you have the latest updates. Due to weather, local conditions, transport schedules, public holidays, political unrest or other factors, further changes may be necessary to your itinerary once in-country. Your group leader or local representative will keep you up to date with any such changes once your trip is underway and has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if deemed necessary due to safety concerns. , OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES A selection of optional activities that have been popular with past travellers are listed in the day-to-day itinerary. This isn't an exhaustive list and should be used as a guide only for some of what might be available. Prices are approximate, are for entrance fees only, and don’t include transport to and from the sites or local guides unless indicated. All activities are subject to availability, and may be on a join-in basis. It may not be possible to do all the activities listed in the time available at each destination, so some pre-planning for what you are most interested in is advised. When it's recommended that travellers pre-book these activities, look for a note in the Special Information section of the day-to-day itinerary. For most, they can either be organised independently on the day, or let your group leader or local representative know you are interested at the Welcome Meeting and they can assist. Where activities are considered medium or high risk, we work with operators whose safety and credentials we have sighted and assessed. Although it is possible that you may find the same activity cheaper with another operator on the ground, we cannot vouch for the safety or quality of that operator. Medium and high-risk activities not listed above have not been assessed by us and as such our staff and group leader or local representative are unable to assist you with organising these activities. Activities that contravene our Responsible Travel policies are also not listed. Please remember that the decision to partake in any activity not listed is at your own discretion and risk.

Accommodation

Hotel (14 nights)

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