ARRIVE INTO RIO DE JANEIRO (BREAKFAST ON BOARD - DINNER)

Welcome to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil's vibrant "Marvelous City" (Cidade Maravilhosa)! Nestled between lush mountains and the sparkling Atlantic Ocean, Rio is one of the world's most spectacular destinations, famous for its breathtaking scenery, golden beaches, lively culture, and warm hospitality.

Rio de Janeiro was the capital of Brazil until 1960 and remains the country's cultural heart. The city is renowned for its music, samba, football, and the world-famous Rio Carnival, one of the largest and most colorful festivals on Earth.

On arrival and post clearance of the immigration formalities be transferred to the hotel. Evening you have ample of free time to take a leisure walk by the Copacabana Beach. Dinner in the hotel and overnight stay.

EXPLORE RIO WITH CITY TOUR, SUGARLOAF AND CORCOVADO TRAIN & GUANABARA BAY CRUISE (BREAKFAST – DINNER)

Today post breakfast we proceed to see Rio in details first starting with the Guanabara Bay Cruise - this is another interesting way to see Rio from a different angle. You’ll embark from Marina da Glória and from the water, you will see many attractions like Flamengo, Botafogo, Urca, Sugarloaf, as well as many beaches. The boat tour is scheduled to begin at 9:00 AM and will last approximately 2 hours.

Next, we enjoy city tour in historical Rio: visit the São Bento Monastery, Candelaria (the candle-makers), Praça XV, Travessa do Mercado, Imperial Palace, the cultural centre located in the beautifully restored Banco do Brasil, Casa França-Brasil, Ouvidor (The Listeners) Street and Gonçalves Dias Street with the traditional Colombo Coffee Shop. You’ll also visit Carioca Square and the Metropolitan Cathedral.

The tour will take the Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas (lagoon) to reach the Rebouças tunnel, a 2.6 km long complex that links the southern and northern parts of the city, cut in half by the Tijuca ridge that makes Rio the only city in the world to have a National Park 5 minutes from downtown. Reaching the Cosme Velho district, you will take a Swiss-made cogwheel train that climbs the mountain from its base at 15 mts nearly all the way to its summit at 670 mts. The very top is reached by climbing a flight of steps to reach the base of the Christ the Redeemer statue. This statue is covered with a mosaic of soapstone and is one of Rio's finest Art Nouveau monuments. The vantage point offers a view of the surrounding Tijuca National Forest spreading below you and a circle of mountains closing the horizon at the very back of the Guanabara Bay. In the afternoon, you will continue visiting the downtown of Rio and the highlights of a city that has been the capital of Colonial Brazil, the capital of the Portugal and Brazil Empires, and is now a Republic. The many attractions on the tour are the highlights of these various periods and are part of Brazilian National Heritage. Sugarloaf, known as 3 Rio's postcard and a must-see site, is best reached by a two-stage cable car ride later in the day and so, the tour will conclude with that site. The Italian-made cable car takes 80 people per trip on a 2-minute ride, each stage. The first stage, Morro da Urca, barely 170 mts high, has a restaurant, amphitheatre, a helipad for scenic rides and a privileged view of the Yacht Club and Botafogo Bay. The second stage takes you all the way up to Sugarloaf, so named because of the loaves of sugar that were commonly used by the Portuguese at the time of the discovery of the city. The all-encompassing panoramic view of this privileged lookout is unrivalled. This is the only site where one will have a full view of Copacabana beach. At the end of the Sugarloaf visit, we will return directly to the hotel so that passengers can shower and rest. Transfer to restaurant for dinner.

FLY TO IGUAZU AND TAKE UP THE FALL VISIT FROM BRAZILIAN SIDE (BREAKFAST – DINNER)

Today after breakfast we take a flight directly to the Brazilian side of Iguazu Falls . Located on the border of Brazil and Argentina, Iguazu Falls is a spectacular system of 275 waterfalls stretching nearly 2.7 kilometres (1.7 miles) across the Iguazu River. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most visited attractions in South America. Today, we are visiting the Brazilian side, located within Iguaçu National Park in the state of Paraná. While Argentina offers close-up experiences, the Brazilian side is famous for its wide panoramic views allowing visitors to appreciate the immense scale and beauty of the entire waterfall system. The highlight of the Brazilian visit is the observation platform extending over the river toward the mighty Devil's Throat—the largest and most powerful waterfall in the park. Here, millions of litres of water plunge into the gorge every second, creating thunderous sounds, cool mist, and often beautiful rainbows.

Next we drive towards the Argentinian side of the Falls and check into the hotel for a comfortable overnight stay.

IGUAZU FALLS VISIT CONTINUES FROM ARGENTINIAN SIDE (BREAKFAST ON BOARD – DINNER)

After a widespread breakfast today we again visit the Iguazu Falls now from the Argentianian Side. Located in Iguazú National Park in the province of Misiones, Argentina, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers visitors an immersive journey through one of the world's greatest natural wonders.

While the Brazilian side is famous for its panoramic views, the Argentinian side allows visitors to walk above, beside, and almost beneath the waterfalls, making it a more intimate and adventurous experience.

First we visit the Upper Circuit (Circuito Superior) - which is an elevated walkway that takes visitors above several waterfalls, offering magnificent views as the water flows over the cliffs before plunging into the river below. It is an easy walk with excellent viewpoints for photography. Next, we proceed to the Lower Circuit (Circuito Inferior). The Lower Circuit brings visitors closer to the base of the waterfalls. Here, you can feel the spray, hear the thunderous roar of the cascading water, and admire the falls from below. This trail provides some of the most dramatic and memorable views in the park. The highlight of the Argentinian side is the spectacular Devil's Throat. After a ride on the Jungle Train, visitors walk along a boardwalk stretching over the Iguazu River to reach the viewing platform. Suddenly, the mighty waterfall appears before you as an immense curtain of water crashing nearly 80 metres (262 feet) into the gorge. The sound is deafening, the mist rises high into the air, and rainbows often form in the sunlight. Finally we end the trip with a thrill as we board the Gran Aventura Boat which combines a rainforest drive with an exciting boat ride that takes visitors remarkably close to the waterfalls, where getting soaked is part of the fun!

We return to the hotel and take rest followed by dinner.

FLY TO BUENOS AIRES AND CITY TOUR WITH TANGO SHOW (BREAKFAST – DINNER)

Today post breakfast we start the day with an orientation of the Buenos Aires city - the elegant capital of Argentina, often called the "Paris of South America." With its grand European-style architecture, vibrant neighborhoods, rich history, passionate tango culture, and world-famous cuisine, Buenos Aires is one of Latin America's most captivating cities. Today, we'll explore some of its most iconic landmarks and discover what makes this city so unique.

Our journey begins at the Plaza de Mayo, the historic heart of Buenos Aires. Since the city's foundation in 1580, this square has witnessed many of Argentina's most significant political and historical events. It has been the stage for revolutions, presidential speeches, and public demonstrations. Today, it remains an important gathering place for both locals and visitors.

Our next stop is the colourful neighbourhood of La Boca, one of Buenos Aires' most photographed districts. Founded by Italian immigrants, La Boca is famous for Caminito Street, where brightly painted houses, local artists, musicians, and tango dancers create a lively atmosphere. This neighbourhood reflects the city's immigrant heritage and artistic spirit.

Another highlight is the modern waterfront district of Puerto Madero. Once an abandoned port area, it has been transformed into one of the city's most fashionable neighborhoods, filled with luxury residences, fine restaurants, parks, and scenic walking paths.

We then travel to the elegant district of Recoleta, known for its Parisian-style buildings, luxury boutiques, cafés, and cultural attractions. Here you'll find the famous Recoleta Cemetery, where elaborate marble mausoleums house many of Argentina's most prominent figures, including Eva Perón, affectionately known as Evita.

We finally visit the Palermo, the largest and one of the most fashionable neighborhoods of Buenos Aires. Known as the city's green heart, Palermo is famous for its beautiful parks, trendy cafés, designer boutiques, art galleries, and vibrant nightlife. It is a favorite destination for both locals and tourists, offering a perfect blend of nature, culture, and modern city life.

Post the orientation now we head towards the scintillating Tango show at La Ventana, one of the most authentic and celebrated tango venues in Buenos Aires.

Located in the historic neighborhood of San Telmo, the oldest district in the city and widely regarded as the birthplace of tango. With its cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, antique shops, and lively cafés, San Telmo beautifully preserves the charm of old Buenos Aires.This evening's performance is much more than a dance show—it's a journey through Argentina's rich cultural heritage. The production features a large cast of professional tango dancers, talented vocalists, and a live orchestra led by the unmistakable sound of the bandoneón, the instrument most closely associated with Argentine tango.So, sit back, relax, and let the music, dance, and atmosphere take you on an unforgettable journey through the soul of Argentina along with a wholesome dinner.

ENJOY THE TIGRE & PARANA DELTA TOUR WITH BOAT RIDE & VISIT TO VICTORIA OCUMPO'S HOUSE (BREAKFAST – DINNER)

Done with our breakfast today, we set out to the charming town of Tigre, the gateway to the magnificent Paraná Delta—one of the largest river deltas in the world. Located about 30 kilometers (19 miles) north of Buenos Aires, Tigre is a favorite weekend destination for locals, offering a unique combination of rivers, islands, nature, and elegant waterfront homes. The Paraná River is South America's second-longest river after the Amazon. Before flowing into the Río de la Plata, it spreads into an extraordinary network of more than 5,000 square miles (approximately 14,000 square kilometers) of rivers, canals, marshes, and islands, creating the beautiful Paraná Delta. Unlike many deltas that flow into the sea, the Paraná Delta empties into another river—the Río de la Plata—making it one of the few freshwater deltas of its kind in the world.

Now it's time to board our boat and explore this fascinating water world.

As we cruise along the peaceful waterways, notice how life here revolves entirely around the river. For the island residents, boats are not a luxury—they are a necessity. Children travel to school by boat, mail is delivered by boat, grocery stores operate on boats, and even ambulances, police, and fire services travel by water. You'll see charming wooden cottages, luxurious riverside villas, floating docks, and colorful gardens lining the canals. Many families from Buenos Aires own weekend homes here, escaping the city's fast pace to enjoy the tranquility of the delta.The surrounding landscape is rich with willow trees, poplars, reeds, and lush vegetation. The delta is also home to numerous bird species, butterflies, turtles, fish, and other wildlife, making it an important ecological reserve.As we glide through the calm waters, you'll notice that there are no roads connecting most of the islands. Every aspect of daily life depends on the river, creating a peaceful lifestyle unlike anywhere else in Argentina.

After this tour we proceed towards the home of Victoria Ocampo (1890–1979), one of Argentina's most influential writers, intellectuals, and cultural patrons. She was a pioneering woman of her time, renowned for promoting literature, art, and international cultural exchange throughout Latin America. One of the most memorable chapters in the house's history was the stay of Rabindranath Tagore, the Nobel Prize-winning poet from India, who spent nearly two months here in 1924 while recovering from illness during his South American journey. Victoria Ocampo admired Tagore deeply and developed a lifelong friendship with him. Tagore affectionately gave her the name "Vijaya," meaning "victory" in Sanskrit. Their friendship remains a celebrated symbol of the cultural connection between India and Argentina.For Indian visitors especially, Villa Ocampo holds a special place because of its association with Rabindranath Tagore, making it an enduring symbol of the friendship between India and Argentina.

Later we drive back to the city , take dinner and spend the night in the comfort of the hotel.

Done with our breakfast today, we set out to the charming town of Tigre, the gateway to the magnificent Paraná Delta—one of the largest river deltas in the world. Located about 30 kilometers (19 miles) north of Buenos Aires, Tigre is a favorite weekend destination for locals, offering a unique combination of rivers, islands, nature, and elegant waterfront homes. The Paraná River is South America's second-longest river after the Amazon. Before flowing into the Río de la Plata, it spreads into an extraordinary network of more than 5,000 square miles (approximately 14,000 square kilometers) of rivers, canals, marshes, and islands, creating the beautiful Paraná Delta. Unlike many deltas that flow into the sea, the Paraná Delta empties into another river—the Río de la Plata—making it one of the few freshwater deltas of its kind in the world.

Now it's time to board our boat and explore this fascinating water world.

FLY TO LIMA AND ENJOY GUIDED TOUR (BREAKFAST – DINNER)

Today post breakfast we check and take a flight to Lima-the vibrant capital of Peru. Often called the "City of Kings" (La Ciudad de los Reyes), Lima was founded by the Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro on 18 January 1535. Today, with a population of over 10 million people, it is Peru's political, cultural, financial, and gastronomic capital.

Situated on the Pacific coast, Lima is a fascinating city where ancient civilizations, colonial heritage, and modern urban life come together. Our tour begins in the Historic Centre of Lima, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1988. As we drive through this area, you'll notice magnificent colonial architecture, elegant balconies carved from wood, grand churches, and beautiful plazas that date back to the Spanish colonial era.

Our first stop is the Plaza Mayor, also known as Plaza de Armas, the birthplace of Lima. This is where Francisco Pizarro officially founded the city nearly 500 years ago. The square remains the symbolic heart of Peru and has witnessed countless historic events, from colonial ceremonies to modern-day celebrations.

Surrounding the plaza are some of Peru's most important buildings:

The Government Palace, the official residence of the President of Peru.

The Cathedral of Lima, an impressive Renaissance and Baroque cathedral that houses the tomb of Francisco Pizarro.

Finally we visit the Larco Museum one of Peru's finest and most prestigious museums. Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply curious about ancient civilizations, this museum offers a fascinating journey through nearly 5,000 years of Peruvian history.

Later we proceed to the hotel, take dinner and spend the overnight.

FLY TO CUSCO AND FURTHER TO SACRED VALLEY (BREAKFAST – DINNER)

After finishing the breakfast be transferred to airport to board the flight to Cusco. On arrival be further transported to the Scared Valley of the Incas, or Valle Sagrado de los Incas -.one of Peru's most breathtaking destinations.

Today, we will journey through a valley that was once the agricultural, spiritual, and cultural heart of the mighty Inca Empire. Stretching for about 60 kilometers (37 miles) between Cusco and Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley follows the Urubamba River, known to the Incas as the Vilcanota River.

The Incas believed this valley was sacred because of its exceptional fertility and its close relationship with the surrounding mountains, known as Apus. These towering peaks were worshipped as protective spirits. The valley also aligned with important astronomical events, reflecting the Incas' deep understanding of nature and the cosmos. Today, the Sacred Valley is recognized not only for its spectacular scenery but also for its archaeological sites, traditional villages, colorful markets, and living Andean culture.

VISIT MACHU PICHU - THE LOST CITY OF THE INCAS (BREAKFAST – LUNCH - DINNER)

Today after breakfast, check out and proceed towards Ollantaytambo station to board the panoramic Vistadome train to Machu Pichu. Perched high in the Andes Mountains at an altitude of approximately 2,430 meters (7,970 feet) above sea level, Machu Picchu is considered the greatest surviving masterpiece of the Inca civilization. The name "Machu Picchu" means "Old Mountain" in the Quechua language. The citadel sits dramatically between two peaks—Machu Picchu Mountain and Huayna Picchu, or "Young Mountain"—surrounded by lush cloud forests and overlooking the winding Urubamba River, nearly 500 meters below.

Machu Picchu was built around 1450 AD during the reign of the great Inca Emperor Pachacuti, who transformed the Inca Kingdom into one of the largest empires in the Americas. Historians believe that Machu Picchu served as a royal estate, ceremonial center, and administrative settlement for the emperor and his court. It was not a large city but rather a carefully planned Inca citadel, home to nobles, priests, artisans, and attendants.

One of the most remarkable aspects of Machu Picchu is its extraordinary engineering. The Incas built the entire citadel without using cement or mortar. Massive granite stones were carefully cut and fitted together so precisely that even a knife blade cannot easily pass between many of them. This technique, known as ashlar masonry, made the buildings highly resistant to earthquakes. Instead of collapsing, the stones gently shift during seismic activity and settle back into place.

In 1983, Machu Picchu was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its outstanding cultural and natural significance. In 2007, it was chosen as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, attracting over a million visitors each year from across the globe.

Post the excursion we board the train again and proceed towards Cusco. We check into the hotel., take dinner and have a sound sleep.

EXPERIENCE THE COLOURFUL RAINBOW MOUNTAIN (BREAKFAST – LUNCH - DINNER)

Begin the day at the break of the dawn as we proceed to enjoy the most beautiful sightseeing of this trip - the charming Rainbow Mountain.- locally known as Vinicunca or the Mountain of Seven Colors.

Located in the Cusco Region, approximately 100 kilometers (62 miles) southeast of Cusco, Rainbow Mountain rises to an impressive altitude of about 5,200 meters (17,060 feet) above sea level, making it one of the highest tourist attractions in Peru.

The mountain's spectacular colors are entirely natural. Over millions of years, different layers of sediment were deposited and compressed, each rich in different minerals. Later, tectonic movements uplifted these layers to form the Andes Mountains, and erosion gradually exposed the colorful stripes we see today.

The different colors come from various minerals:

• Red – Iron oxide.
• Yellow and golden – Iron sulfides.
  
• Green – Minerals rich in chlorite and iron.
• Purple and lavender – Mixtures of clay and other minerals.
• White – Quartz sandstone and limestone.

Together, these mineral-rich layers create the stunning rainbow effect that has made Vinicunca famous around the world.

After soaking into the beauty of this mountain for sometime we descend in the same manner like we have ascended on bikes. We return to Cusco and join the Tunupa Folklore show - ne of the most popular cultural experiences in Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire. Tonight, you will enjoy an unforgettable evening of traditional Peruvian music, dance, colorful costumes, and local cuisine, all in a beautiful setting overlooking Cusco's historic Plaza de Armas.

FLY TO SAO PAOLO (BREAKFAST – DINNER)

Today after breakfast we set out for a complete orientation tour of Sao Paolo. The historic downtown preserves the origins of São Paulo.

Explore the city's most popular attractions, passing through key areas such as the historic downtown district, the Paulista Avenue region, the most sophisticated neighborhoods in the southern and southwestern parts of São Paulo, as well as major business districts such as Brooklin and Itaim Bibi. Discover the remarkable history of São Paulo, which, in its 465 years of existence, evolved from a small village with relatively little significance for more than three centuries into the largest city in the Southern Hemisphere and one of the largest cities in the world.

Later we proceed towards hotel , take dinner and overnight stay.

ORIENTATION TOUR OF SAO PAOLO (BREAKFAST – DINNER)

Today after breakfast we set out for a complete orientation tour of Sao Paolo. The historic downtown preserves the origins of São Paulo.

Explore the city's most popular attractions, passing through key areas such as the historic downtown district, the Paulista Avenue region, the most sophisticated neighborhoods in the southern and southwestern parts of São Paulo, as well as major business districts such as Brooklin and Itaim Bibi. Discover the remarkable history of São Paulo, which, in its 465 years of existence, evolved from a small village with relatively little significance for more than three centuries into the largest city in the Southern Hemisphere and one of the largest cities in the world.

Later we proceed towards hotel , take dinner and overnight stay.

FLY TO MANAUS - THE BRAZILIAN AMAZON (BREAKFAST – DINNER)

Done with our breakfast we proceed towards airport to catch flight to Manaus and further drive to Amazon. On arrival be welcomed with a refreshing drink and check-in. Later we set out for Caiman spotting. Finally we take dinner in the lodge before settling down.

DISCOVERIES CONTINUE (BREAKFAST – DINNER)

Breakfast at the hotel. While the schedule of activities is always subject to variation due to weather, water level and other factors, there are generally two different activities included each day, generally early in the morning and later in the afternoon or evening. These are the times when wildlife is most active (we recommend you lay low during the mid-day sun, as the wildlife does!).

NATURE-HIKE

Introduction to the amazon area. The group will be accompanied by Bilingual guides and by military officers from the Amazon Jungle Army who are specialized in jungle survival skills. Activities will involve trekking in the jungle throughout the morning and afternoon. Programmed stops will be made at “Work Stations”. LUNCH DURING THE TOUR

VISIT TO THE CABOCLOS

After a short rest, the group will visit the home of local Amazonian residents – “caboclos” – with an opportunity for Fishing. A bilingual guide will help you learn about the traditions and customs of this people. Duration: may vary according to the place visited / “low water level seasons” closest to the Lodge; “high water level season” distant communities can be visited (1 to 3 hours). Back to the hotel. Finally we take dinner and rest in the same hotel.

****Important note: THE ORDER OF THE TOURS MAY CHANGE DEPENDING ON WEATHER CONDITIONS AND THE LODGE’S LOGISTICS – SERVICES AND ACTIVITIES ARE REGULAR

MEETING OF WATERS AND FURTHER TO MANAUS AIRPORT AND FLIGHT TO SAO PAOLO (BREAKFAST – MEALS ON BOARD)

Breakfast at the hotel. As part of the day trip you will go to the unforgettable MEETING OF THE WATER, where the fast moving black waters of the Rio Negro meet the slower brown waters of the Rio Solimões. These two river waters run together for miles without mixing as differences in speed, temperature and density keep them separate. It is an amazing spectacle to behold.

Later we are dropped at Manaus airport from where we board flight to Sao Paolo for return flight to India.

KOLKATA

Upon arrival at Kolkata, proceed to complete all necessary immigration and customs formalities before exiting the airport. As you step back onto familiar ground, take a moment to reflect on the unforgettable memories and experiences gathered during the tour.

Before bidding farewell, cherish the friendships and bonds formed with fellow travelers who have been a part of this incredible journey. From shared laughter to exploring new destinations together, these connections make every trip special.

As the journey comes to an end, we sincerely thank you for being a part of this wonderful experience. TRAVELIXA hopes to see you again on another exciting adventure soon. Until then, take care and keep exploring!