Best of South America
Highlights of Brazil, Argentina & Chile: Vibrant rhythms of Rio, powerful Iguazú Falls, charming Buenos Aires, Bariloche’s scenic landscapes & cultural Santiago. Optional extension to Easter Island
Overview
Style | Small Group TourTravel with a small, intimate group of no more than 16 likeminded travelers (and often much fewer), escorted by an English speaking guide and/or tour manager for some or all of your journey. (Some exceptions, including special promotional packages, may accommodate up to 30.) More of these packages
Tour escorts & guides for some segments |
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Departures | September 2025 – April 2026 | Group Size | 16 travelers max |
Themes | History & Culture, Bucket List, Nature & Wildlife, City Stays | ||
Activity Level | Moderate | ||
What to Expect | This moderately-paced, locally hosted tour involves a reasonable amount of walking, as well as getting on and off boats. Good physical fitness required to fully enjoy the trip. | ||
Already booked? | Find everything you need to know before you go, including information about passport & visa requirements, flights, luggage, and more. |
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Embark on an exhilarating 15-day journey through Brazil, Argentina, and Chile, where panoramic landscapes and colorful cultural tapestries await. Begin in the vibrant city of Rio de Janeiro, where the city's rhythm, spirit, and iconic landmarks set the stage for adventure. Witness the sheer power of Iguazú Falls from both the Brazilian and Argentinian sides, feeling the mist of this natural wonder up close. Immerse yourself in the traditions of Argentina’s gauchos, experiencing their way of life on the vast pampas. Then, traverse through Bariloche, known as the "Switzerland of Argentina." Conclude your adventure in Santiago, a dynamic city framed by the Andes. For those seeking even more discovery, an optional extension to Easter Island unveils the mystery of its ancient Moai statues and Polynesian heritage.
Package includes
- Flights
- Coach
- Transfers
- Hotel
- Meals
- Guides
- Round trip Flights from Miami (MIA) to Rio de Janeiro (GIG) and Santiago (SCL) to Miami (MIA), including taxes & fees
- All intra-South America flights
- All ground transportation and transfers
- 13 nights in Deluxe and First-Class Superior hotel accommodations
- 24 meals: 13 breakfasts, 6 lunches and 5 dinners
- Comprehensive touring program including entrance fees
- Professional English-speaking tour guides
Optional add-ons
- Flights from other cities are available. Request pricing when making your reservation.
- Exciting optional tours available
- Optional post-tour extension to Easter Island
Why you'll love it
- Embrace Rio's rhythm and spirit with an unforgettable samba-themed experience
- Visit Corcovado and view the Christ the Redeemer statue
- Ride the cable car up to the summit of Sugarloaf Mountain
- Witness the power of Iguazú Falls on both the Brazilian and Argentinian sides
- Tour Buenos Aires, including the Plaza de Mayo, La Boca, and Puerto Madero districts
- Join a tango class and enjoy an exciting dinner tango show
- Visit Estancia Santa Susana and enjoy a barbecue prepared by gauchos, folklore show, and equestrian games
- Embark on the iconic Circuito Chico excursion, one of Bariloche's most cherished tours
- Admire the views on the Circuito Grande excursion through Patagonia's landscapes
- Set off on a scenic tour through the Andes Mountains
- Explore Santiago, including the Casa de La Moneda and the Plaza de Armas
- Sip local wines during a tasting at Santa Rita Vineyard
Itinerary at a Glance
![Best of South America map](https://res.cloudinary.com/friendly-planet/image/fetch/q_auto,f_auto,w_520,c_limit/https://m.friendlyplanet.com/media/gallery/maps/best-of-south-america-2025.png)
- 1 Depart USA
- 2 Arrive Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- 3 Rio de Janeiro
- 4 Rio de Janeiro
- Optional Excursion: Sugarloaf Helicopter Ride, $158
- 5 Rio de Janeiro & Iguazú Falls
- Optional Excursion: Bird Park Visit, $36
- 6 Iguazú Falls
- Optional Excursion: The Great Adventure, $85
- 7 Iguazú Falls & Buenos Aires, Argentina
- 8 Buenos Aires
- 9 Buenos Aires & Estancia Gaucha
- 10 Buenos Aires, Bariloche & Circuito Chico
- 11 Bariloche & Circuito Grande
- 12 Bariloche, Argentina, Lake Crossing & Puerto Varas, Chile
- 13 Puerto Varas, Puerto Montt & Santiago
- 14 Santiago
- 15 Valparaíso, Depart Santiago/Arrive USA
Easter Island Post-tour Extension
- 15 Santiago & Valparaíso
- 16 Santiago & Easter Island
- 17 Easter Island
- Optional Excursion: Te Ra'ai Dinner & Show, $90
- 18 Easter Island
- 19 Easter Island & Santiago
- 20 Depart Santiago/Arrive USA
Dates & Prices
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1 Depart USA
- Depart the USA on your overnight flight to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Day 2 Arrive Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel
- Join your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner
Hilton Rio de Janeiro Copacabana or similar Dinner
Full Day ItineraryDay 3 Rio de Janeiro
- Visit Corcovado and view the Christ the Redeemer statue
- Embrace Rio's rhythm and spirit at the Acadêmicos do Grande Rio
- Savor a refreshing caipirinha tasting
- Spend the evening at leisure
Hilton Rio de Janeiro Copacabana Breakfast & lunch
Full Day ItineraryAfter breakfast at the hotel, head out to explore one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World—Corcovado! Marvel at the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue, perched atop Corcovado Mountain at 2,329 feet above sea level. This world-famous landmark is the ultimate symbol of Rio de Janeiro and offers jaw-dropping panoramic views of the city and its bay. Reach the summit by train, traveling through the lush and vibrant Tijuca Forest, a natural treasure of Brazil.
After lunch, immerse yourself in the rhythm and spirit of Rio with an unforgettable Samba-themed afternoon. Visit the vibrant Cidade do Samba and step inside the Acadêmicos do Grande Rio, home to one of Rio’s premier samba schools. Learn about the rich history of this quintessential Brazilian music, see dazzling samba costumes up close, and even try on a few for some fun, lively photos! Cap off the experience with a refreshing tasting of Brazil’s signature cocktail, the caipirinha.
Return to the hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure.
Day 4 Rio de Janeiro
- Embark on a guided city tour of downtown Rio
- Stop at the artistic Selarón Staircase
- Enjoy lunch at Cais do Oriente
- Ride the cable car up to the summit of Sugarloaf Mountain
- Spend the evening at leisure
Hilton Rio de Janeiro Copacabana Breakfast & lunch
Full Day ItineraryAfter breakfast, join your guide for a fascinating exploration of Rio’s downtown area, where narrow streets and historic buildings tell the story of the city’s past. Discover iconic landmarks like Candelária Church, Praça XV, and the Metropolitan Cathedral, with an opportunity to step inside the cathedral and marvel at its unique design. Continue to the vibrant Selarón Staircase, a ceramic tile masterpiece and one of Rio’s most beloved attractions. Located in the heart of the bohemian Lapa neighborhood, this colorful, mosaic-covered staircase is a must-see for its artistic charm and cultural significance.
Enjoy lunch at Cais do Oriente, a beautifully restored 1878 building nestled in a pedestrian street in the heart of Rio’s old city. This former warehouse for spices and exotic goods has transformed into a charming restaurant offering delicious cuisine and a rich history.
Later, visit one of Rio’s most iconic landmarks—Sugarloaf Mountain. Ride the cable car to the summit and enjoy the breathtaking views of Guanabara Bay and the city’s coastline. From this incredible vantage point, it’s easy to see why Rio is often called the most beautiful city in the world. For more adventure, join an optional helicopter ride from the Sugarloaf Heliport!
Return to the hotel and spend the evening at leisure.
Optional Excursion: Sugarloaf Helicopter Ride, $158Elevate your adventure with an optional helicopter ride from the Sugarloaf Heliport. Soar above the city and enjoy a spectacular bird’s-eye view of Rio’s landscapes. Your flight takes you over Praia Vermelha Beach with Sugarloaf Mountain as your backdrop, Pedra do Leme, and Leme Beach. Marvel at the famous Copacabana Beach and Fort, glide over Praia do Diabo and Arpoador Beach, and admire the beautiful coastline of Ipanema and Leblon Beaches. This unforgettable experience offers a unique perspective of Rio’s beauty you won’t want to miss!
Day 5 Rio de Janeiro & Iguazú Falls
- Board your flight to Foz do Iguaçu
- Stroll along the catwalks and witness the Brazilian side of the falls at Iguaçu National Park
- Cross the border into Argentina and transfer to your hotel for check-in
- Enjoy the evening at leisure
Panoramic Grand Hotel or similar Breakfast
Full Day ItineraryAfter breakfast at the hotel and check out, transfer to the airport for your flight to Foz do Iguaçu.
Upon arrival, head to Iguaçu National Park to experience the fascinating beauty of the Brazilian side of the falls. Stroll along the scenic catwalks, where you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the cascading waterfalls. The sweeping vistas from this side are genuinely unforgettable and offer a perfect introduction to this natural wonder. Later, take advantage of an optional visit to Bird Park, the only institution in the world dedicated to conserving the vibrant and rare birds of the Atlantic Forest.
In the late afternoon, cross the border to Argentina, continue to your hotel in Puerto Iguazú, and spend the evening at leisure.
Optional Excursion: Bird Park Visit, $36Visit the incredible Bird Park, the only institution in the world dedicated to conserving the vibrant and rare birds of the Atlantic Forest. In a truly immersive experience, get up close and personal with these magnificent creatures. Discover how the park is working to protect these birds and their habitat, helping to reverse the conservation challenges facing this globally significant natural treasure. This tour offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature and learn about the vital efforts to preserve it.
Note: This optional excursion requires a minimum of 2 passengers to operate.
Day 6 Iguazú Falls
- Tour the Argentinean side of Iguazú Falls
- Admire the impressive Devil's Throat
Panoramic Grand Hotel or similar Breakfast & lunch
Full Day ItineraryAfter breakfast at the hotel, head out to explore the Argentinian side of Iguazú Falls, located in Iguazú National Park. "Iguazú" translates to "big water" in Guarani, and you'll soon see why! Walk along specially designed footbridges that bring you up close to this awe-inspiring natural wonder. Explore the upper and lower trails to take in spectacular views of San Martín Island and feel the raw power of Devil’s Throat after a scenic 15-minute ecological train ride. The upper walkways, spanning approximately 2,625 feet, provide even more breathtaking perspectives of the falls.
Then, savor lunch at a local restaurant before returning to Puerto Iguazú to relax or explore at your leisure. For more adventure, join an exhilarating optional tour: The Great Adventure!
Optional Excursion: The Great Adventure, $85Take your Iguazú experience to the next level with an exhilarating optional tour that blends the wonders of the jungle with the thrill of the falls. Board an off-road truck from the Visitor Center for a three-mile journey along the Yacaratiá Trail, accompanied by bilingual guides who will introduce you to the lush flora and fauna of the Atlantic Forest. Keep an eye out for wildlife, including vibrant toucans!
The trail leads to the Puerto Macuco pier, where you'll hop aboard a zodiac boat for a 3.7-mile journey up the Iguazú River. Feel the excitement as you approach the powerful Three Musketeers and San Martín Falls—showers and heart-pounding thrills guaranteed! After this unforgettable adventure, return to the Visitor Center by truck.
Note: This is a shared service with a bilingual Spanish and English-speaking guide.
Day 7 Iguazú Falls & Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Board your flight to Buenos Aires
- Transfer to your hotel and spend the remainder of the day at leisure
InterContinental Buenos Aires or similar Breakfast
Full Day ItineraryDay 8 Buenos Aires
- Explore Buenos Aires, including the Plaza de Mayo, La Boca, and Puerto Madero districts
- Visit the Recoleta district
- Join a tango class and enjoy an exciting dinner tango show
InterContinental Buenos Aires or similar Breakfast & dinner
Full Day ItineraryFollowing breakfast at the hotel, embark on an unforgettable full-day city tour. Begin by exploring Buenos Aires’ iconic main avenues, including 9 de Julio, the widest avenue in the world, home to the towering 213-foot-high Obelisk and the renowned Teatro Colón, a masterpiece of Argentine architecture. Stroll along Avenida Corrientes, bustling with theaters, bookstores, and restaurants, and Avenida de Mayo, where the Spanish influence is reflected in its stunning architecture and vibrant Galician culture. Visit the historic Plaza de Mayo, the city’s political heart, and see the Casa Rosada, Argentina's presidential palace.
Next, explore the colorful history of La Boca, a lively neighborhood at the mouth of the Río de la Plata. Caminito Street is famous for its vibrantly colorful metal houses, a tribute to the area’s Italian immigrant roots, brought to life by local artist Benito Quinquela Martín.
Continue to Puerto Madero, a modern waterfront district. Once an abandoned port, this area has become a vibrant hub of upscale restaurants, stylish red-brick buildings, and residential spaces.
This afternoon, visit the renowned El Ateneo Grand Splendid bookstore. Located in a beautifully restored theater on Santa Fe Avenue, it is considered one of the most stunning bookstores in the world.
Later, visit the elegant Recoleta district. Walk through the historic Recoleta Cemetery, famed for its grand mausoleums and as the resting place of Argentina’s most notable figures, including Eva Perón. Visit the neighboring Church of Our Lady of Pilar and soak in the local vibe at Plaza Francia, a favorite gathering spot for Porteños.
Return to your hotel to freshen up before an enchanting evening. Join a tango class and enjoy a dazzling dinner tango show at Café de los Los Angelitos, where you’ll be treated to Argentina’s most iconic dance and a delicious meal.
Day 9 Buenos Aires & Estancia Gaucha
- Visit Estancia Santa Susana
- Indulge in an authentic Argentine barbecue prepared by gauchos
- Enjoy a lively folklore show
- Witness the equestrian skills of the gauchos during traditional games
- Spend the evening at leisure
InterContinental Buenos Aires or similar Breakfast & lunch
Full Day ItineraryAfter breakfast at your hotel, set out for an unforgettable full-day excursion to Estancia Santa Susana. Immerse yourself in the vast, rolling landscapes of the Pampas, a sprawling sea of green grass stretching across a quarter of the country and serving as the legendary home of Argentina's legendary gauchos, who embody the romantic spirit of Argentina.
Upon arrival, you’ll be warmly welcomed with traditional empanadas, savory pastries often filled with deliciously seasoned meat. Explore the estancia’s historic section, where preserved architecture and period furnishings offer a glimpse into the lives of the gauchos who dedicate themselves to cattle ranching.
Savor a hearty "asado" lunch, an authentic Argentine barbecue prepared by the gauchos themselves, featuring an array of flavorful meats cooked to perfection. During your meal, enjoy a lively folklore show that brings the Pampas culture to life.
After lunch, marvel at the incredible equestrian skills of the gauchos during traditional games, including the thrilling "sortijas" races. These displays of horsemanship and precision are as exciting as they are impressive.
Return to Buenos Aires in the late afternoon. Enjoy the evening at leisure to explore the city’s nightlife or relax after your day of adventure.
Day 10 Buenos Aires, Bariloche & Circuito Chico
- Board your flight to Bariloche
- Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel
- Embark on the iconic Circuito Chico excursion, one of Bariloche's most cherished tours
Design Suites Bariloche or similar Breakfast & dinner
Full Day ItineraryFollowing breakfast at the hotel, transfer to Buenos Aires Airport for your flight to Bariloche. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted and transferred to your hotel to settle in.
In the afternoon, embark on the iconic Circuito Chico excursion, one of Bariloche's most cherished tours. The journey begins as you travel west along Avenida Bustillo, skirting the serene shores of Lake Nahuel Huapi. Your first stop is Playa Bonita, where you’ll see Isla Huemul shimmering in the distance.
Next, arrive at Cerro Campanario, where an optional chairlift ride takes you to the summit at about 3,445 feet. From this vantage point, take in breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding lakes and mountains, widely regarded as some of the most beautiful in the region.
Continuing along Avenida Bustillo, past the picturesque San Pedro Peninsula and arrive at the charming Llao Llao area. Explore San Eduardo Chapel, a local architectural gem, and admire the panoramic vistas of the Llao Llao Hotel, nestled between the Capilla and López hills. Nearby, you’ll see Puerto Pañuelo, the departure point for cruises on Lake Nahuel Huapi.
Admire the striking beauty of Bahia López and the lush green of the hotel's golf courses. Cross the narrow bridge connecting Moreno Lake to Lake Nahuel Huapi and stop at the Punto Panorámico viewpoint for unparalleled views of the Llao Llao Peninsula and its surrounding lakes. The route continues around Laguna El Trébol before reconnecting with Avenida Bustillo, returning you to Bariloche in the evening.
End your day with dinner at the hotel.
Day 11 Bariloche & Circuito Grande
- Embark on the 155-mile Circuito Grande excursion through Patagonia's landscapes
- Spend the evening at leisure
Design Suites Bariloche Breakfast & lunch
Full Day ItineraryAfter breakfast at the hotel, embark on the Circuito Grande excursion, a 155-mile journey through some of Patagonia’s most breathtaking landscapes. The tour heads north along Route 237 toward Neuquén, crossing the iconic Puente Arroyo La Angostura bridge over Lake Nahuel Huapi. As you travel alongside the Limay River, you'll pass the historic spot where Francisco Moreno first gazed upon the vast Lake Nahuel Huapi on January 22, 1876, an unforgettable moment in Argentina’s history.
Continuing along the Limay River, you'll come across the stunning Amphitheatre, a unique natural formation shaped by ancient glaciers, resembling a Roman Circus. Your journey then leads to the Valle Encantado (Enchanted Valley), a mystical place where strange rock formations rise dramatically, creating a surreal atmosphere. The Limay River flows into the Traful River here, and a short drive west takes you to the charming town of Villa Traful.
Nestled in the mountains, Villa Traful is surrounded by awe-inspiring scenery. Enjoy the panoramic views from the Mirador del Lago Traful, which offers one of the most stunning vistas in the area. As you make your way through this diverse landscape, you’ll witness the transition from steppe to forest, pass by Patagonian ranches, and spot local wildlife.
Stop for lunch in Villa Traful before continuing your adventure to Puerto Arrayán and El Portezuelo. The final stretch of the tour takes you along the picturesque Seven Lakes Route, leading you to Villa La Angostura. Return to Bariloche and enjoy the remainder of the evening at leisure.
Day 12 Bariloche, Argentina, Lake Crossing & Puerto Varas, Chile
- Set off on the scenic Cruce Andino Lake Crossing tour
Hotel Cabaña del Lago or similar Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Full Day ItineraryStart your day with breakfast at the hotel before setting out on the scenic route through the Andes mountains that connects San Carlos de Bariloche in Argentina with Puerto Varas in Chile. Travel by motorcoach from Bariloche to Puerto Pañuelo along the picturesque shores of Lake Nahuel Huapi. Along the way, admire the Swiss-style architecture that defines the region, with colorful gardens and flowers adding to the beauty of the landscape.
Next, board the Gran Victoria boat at Puerto Pañuelo and sail across Lake Nahuel Huapi to Puerto Blest. Relax as you take in the impressive landscapes, lush green forests, and the birds soaring overhead. Your guide will also share fascinating details about the area’s history.
Upon arrival at Puerto Blest, board a bus for a scenic drive along the River Frías to Puerto Alegre, where you'll board the Victoria del Sur for the next leg of your journey. Sail across Lake Frías with magnificent views of the towering Cerro Tronador, the tallest mountain in the Andean Lake District. After a brief sail, arrive at Puerto Frías to complete the necessary border procedures.
Continue by bus toward Peulla, a picturesque village nestled in the Andes, with beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. Arrive at an ecological lodge and nature lover's paradise, where a delicious lunch awaits you. Take some time to relax and soak in the tranquil surroundings.
After lunch, board the boat for your sail across Lake Todos los Santos to Petrohué. If the weather allows, enjoy breathtaking views of the Osorno and Puntiagudo volcanoes, as well as Cerro Tronador.
Continue your journey by bus to Puerto Varas, passing by Lake Llanquihue. Marvel at the dramatic scenery of the Osorno and Calbuco volcanoes. Arrive in Puerto Varas and proceed to your hotel. Enjoy dinner this evening with your fellow travelers.
Day 13 Puerto Varas, Puerto Montt & Santiago
- Explore Puerto Montt and the crafty Angelmó sector
- Transfer to the airport and board your flight to Santiago
- Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the afternoon at leisure
Pullman Santiago Vitacura or similar Breakfast
Full Day ItineraryBegin your day with a scenic drive to the city of Puerto Montt and travel towards the Angelmó sector, famous for its vibrant craft shops. This bustling area is the perfect place to explore local arts and crafts, offering a unique glimpse into Chilean culture. After some time to browse and enjoy, transfer to the airport for your flight to Santiago.
Upon arrival in Santiago, enjoy a panoramic view of the city as you transfer to your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the afternoon at leisure.
Day 14 Santiago
- Explore the colonial district of Santiago
- Visit the fashionable business districts of Providencia and Las Condes
- Sip local wines during a tasting at Santa Rita Vineyard
- Enjoy a farewell dinner with your fellow travelers
Pullman Santiago Vitacura or similar Breakfast & dinner
Full Day ItineraryEnjoy breakfast at the hotel before heading out to explore Santiago’s historic center. Here, you'll encounter a fascinating mix of colonial history and modern architecture. Visit the , the seat of Chile’s government, and stroll through the Plaza de Armas, where you’ll admire colonial-era buildings and republican monuments, including the 19th-century Cathedral.
Continue toward the majestic Andes. Pass by the iconic Cerro San Cristóbal, through the vibrant neighborhoods of Providencia and Las Condes, known for their wide boulevards, modern skyscrapers, and charming side-streets filled with stylish restaurants and boutiques.
This afternoon, visit Viña Santa Rita, a beautiful vineyard outside of Santiago. Nestled in the foothills with incredible views of the Andes, this winery offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and fine wine.
Stroll through the Santa Rita Centennial Park, designed in 1883 and home to the largest bougainvillea in South America. Then, explore the winery, hear the fascinating story behind one of Chile’s oldest wines, and learn about the legendary "Santa Rita 120.” Of course, no visit would be complete without a wine tasting of three distinct wines.
Afterward, visit the Andean Museum where you'll discover an impressive collection of over 3,000 archaeological and ethnographic pieces from Chile’s pre-Columbian cultures.
After the tour, return to your hotel to relax before dinner. This evening, join your fellow travelers for a memorable farewell dinner, where you’ll enjoy delicious Chilean cuisine in a cozy, welcoming settings.
Day 15 Valparaíso, Depart Santiago/Arrive USA
- Explore Valparaíso, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Bid farewell to South America as you transfer to the airport to board your return flight to the USA
- Or, take advantage of your already included international airfare and join our optional extension to Easter Island!
Breakfast
Full Day ItineraryAfter breakfast at the hotel, drive from Santiago to Valparaíso, passing through the beautiful Curacaví and Casablanca valleys, known for their lush vineyards and fruit plantations.
Upon arrival in Valparaíso, you’ll soon understand why this vibrant city was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With its colorful hills and charming architecture, Valparaíso offers panoramic views over the Pacific Ocean. Known as the cultural capital of Chile, this city is also the birthplace of Chilean graffiti art. Explore iconic hills, including Cerro Alegre and Cerro Concepción, and admire the impressive street art and graffiti that bring the city’s artistic spirit to life.
After this exciting tour, return to Santiago, where you’ll have time to freshen up before your transfer to the airport for your return flight home.
Easter Island Post-tour Extension
Take advantage of your already-included international airfare by joining our post-tour extension to Easter Island! Passengers taking the post-tour extension will return to the USA 5 days after the return dates listed.
Day 15 Santiago & Valparaíso
- Explore Valparaíso, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Spend the evening at leisure
Pullman Santiago Vitacura or similar Breakfast
Full Day ItineraryAfter breakfast at the hotel, drive from Santiago to Valparaíso, passing through the beautiful Curacaví and Casablanca valleys, known for their lush vineyards and fruit plantations.
Upon arrival in Valparaíso, you’ll soon understand why this vibrant city was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With its colorful hills and charming architecture, Valparaíso offers panoramic views over the Pacific Ocean. Known as the cultural capital of Chile, this city is also the birthplace of Chilean graffiti art. Explore iconic hills, including Cerro Alegre and Cerro Concepción, and admire the impressive street art and graffiti that bring the city’s artistic spirit to life.
After this exciting tour, return to Santiago and enjoy the evening at leisure.
Day 16 Santiago & Easter Island
- Transfer to the airport for your flight to Easter Island
- Enjoy a panoramic island tour
Hotel Altiplánico Rapa Nui, Hare Nua Hotel Boutique or similar Breakfast
Full Day ItineraryTransfer to the airport for your flight to the fascinating Easter Island. Upon arrival, you'll be transferred to your hotel to settle in and relax.
In the afternoon, enjoy a panoramic tour of this captivating island, where you'll be introduced to its breathtaking landscapes, ancient mysteries, and iconic Moai statues.
Note: October 6, 2025 departure will stay at Hare Nua Hotel Boutique.
Day 17 Easter Island
- Tour Easter Island, traveling through Hanga Roa and Anakena beach
- Learn about Hotu Matua, the island’s first king
Hotel Altiplánico Rapa Nui, Hare Nua Hotel Boutique or similar Breakfast & lunch
Full Day ItineraryAfter breakfast at the hotel, embark on a tour that takes you deep into the heart of Easter Island's history and culture. Starting in the town of Hanga Roa, the journey takes you toward Anakena beach along the road to the center of the island, known as Vaitea. Along the way, learn about Hotu Matua, the island’s first king, whose arrival began a settlement that thrived for over 700 years, shaping the island’s culture. Visit key sites, including the area where Hotu Matua is believed to have landed, the location of his tomb, and the workshops where many of the island’s iconic Moai statues were crafted. The day concludes with a scenic return to Hanga Roa along the south coast of Rapa Nui. A box lunch will be provided for you to enjoy during this immersive experience.
Note: October 6, 2025 departure will stay at Hare Nua Hotel Boutique.
Optional Excursion: Te Ra'ai Dinner & Show, $90Experience the ancestral essence of Rapa Nui with an exciting Te Ra'ai dinner and show, an immersive journey through tradition, storytelling, and cultural expression. Begin with a warm welcome from the Te Ra'ai family, featuring a refreshing appetizer and takona, the ancient Rapa Nui body painting art. Witness the Umu Hatu ceremony, a traditional underground cooking ritual at the family’s ancestral temple, where stories and legends bring the island’s mysticism to life. Savor a buffet-style feast of Umu Hatu-prepared meats, root vegetables, fresh salads, local fruits, natural juices, and a glass of wine. Conclude the evening with an electrifying live performance by Haha Varua, showcasing Rapa Nui’s vibrant dances, chants, and artistic expressions.
Day 18 Easter Island
- Enjoy a morning tour of Ahu Akivi, Puna Pau, and Ana Te Pahu cavern
- In the afternoon, embark on an Orongo & Volcán Rano Kau excursion
Hotel Altiplánico Rapa Nui, Hare Nua Hotel Boutique or similar Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Full Day ItineraryAfter breakfast at the hotel, embark on a morning tour to explore some of Easter Island’s most fascinating archaeological sites. Begin with a visit to Ahu Akivi, the platform with seven Moai statues, which, according to oral tradition, were created to honor the first explorers of Rapa Nui. Continue to Puna Pau, the quarry where the iconic red stone hats or headdresses (known as pukao) for the Moai are crafted, offering a panoramic view of Hanga Roa town. Next, discover the incredible Ana Te Pahu cavern, formed by volcanic lava flow thousands of years ago. This cave was once used as a home and refuge by the ancient Rapa Nui people, and you’ll see archaeological remains that give a glimpse into their life during times of social instability.
In the afternoon, visit some of the island's most important ceremonial centers, including rock paintings and archaeological sites with great cultural value. Ascend the towering Rano Kau volcano and walk along an interpretive trail leading to the ancient town of Orongo, an important site tied to Rapa Nui mythology. Learn about the Tangata Manu (Bird Man) competition, a key element of Rapa Nui culture where the winner, who captures the first Manutara egg, is granted supernatural powers and political-military leadership for the year. After a day full of history and culture, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.
Note: October 6, 2025 departure will stay at Hare Nua Hotel Boutique.
Day 19 Easter Island & Santiago
- Transfer to the airport and board your flight to Santiago
Holiday Inn Santiago - Airport Terminal or similar Breakfast
Full Day ItineraryAfter breakfast at the hotel, spend the morning at leisure. Transfer to the airport to board your flight to Santiago.
Day 20 Depart Santiago/Arrive USA
- After breakfast at the hotel, transfer to the airport via hotel shuttle and board your flight to the USA
Breakfast
Hotels
In the unlikely event that a particular hotel is not available, a similar or better hotel may be substituted.
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Trip Details
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What should I know before I go? We've compiled a comprehensive checklist, including information on how to pay your balance due, flights & transfers, packing & luggage, and more.
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Do I need a visa or other documents? Are there any entry requirements? Travel visas are required for this package. Please review the visa & entry requirements.
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Can I make changes to my trip? Want to upgrade your seats? Depart from another city? Stay a few extra days? Something else? Just ask!
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Can I bring my kids? Are there any age restrictions? To book this package, you must be 18 or older. Your traveling companions must be 8 or older at time of travel.
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Should I purchase travel insurance? Yes! We recommend you purchase travel insurance to help protect you and your travel investment against the unexpected. For your convenience, we offer a plan provided by Travelex Insurance Services.
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What's the fine print? Review the terms & conditions for this package.
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What should I know about Argentina? Check out our guide for practical travel tips, the best time to go, videos, and more.
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What should I know about Brazil? Check out our guide for practical travel tips, the best time to go, videos, and more.
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What should I know about Chile? Check out our guide for practical travel tips, the best time to go, videos, and more.