Machu Picchu & Peru Travel

Buenos Aires City Tour & Tango Experience

On your first day in Argentina, we’ll begin with an exciting city tour of Buenos Aires. We’ll pick you up in the morning and start with a visit to the heart of the city—Plaza de Mayo, where you can explore the historical and political center, including the iconic Presidential Palace. Stroll through the charming streets of San Telmo, the city’s oldest neighborhood, full of colonial character. As the day unfolds, we’ll head to La Boca, a vibrant area where the streets come alive with colorful murals and the spirit of tango fills the air.

After some time to relax at your hotel, we’ll take you to an unforgettable evening show. Get ready to be captivated by a spectacular three-hour performance, showcasing the artistry of tango dancers and musicians in an elegant venue. As the night draws to a close, we’ll bring you back to your hotel around midnight, where you can rest and reflect on the bohemian charm of Buenos Aires.

Journey to Puerto Iguazú & Explore the Brazilian Side of the Falls

This morning, we’ll accompany you to the airport for a short flight to Puerto Iguazú, your next incredible destination. This charming town serves as the gateway to the awe-inspiring Iguazú Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders and a UNESCO World Heritage site—a must-visit for anyone in Argentina.

Upon your arrival, we’ll take you on a serene half-day tour to the Brazilian side of the falls. While Argentina boasts most of the falls, Brazil offers the most breathtaking panoramic views. On the Argentine side, you’ll feel as though you’re surrounded by the falls, but only from the Brazilian viewpoint will you truly appreciate the vast scale of this natural wonder.

Discover the Argentine Side of Iguazú Falls

After breakfast, we’ll meet you at your hotel and head to Iguazú National Park for a closer look at one of nature’s most incredible wonders. On this side of the park, you’ll experience the falls from a unique perspective, surrounded by a lush subtropical forest filled with vibrant wildlife.

Your expert guide will point out some of the fascinating creatures that call this forest home—such as toucans, parrots, coatis, and the elusive antbirds. As you walk along the lower and upper paths, you’ll have the chance to marvel at the falls from all angles. Don’t miss the awe-inspiring “Devil’s Throat,” the largest and most striking of the falls, where the power and beauty of nature truly shine.

Journey to Mendoza’s Wine Country

Today, we’ll take you to the airport for your quick flight from Iguazú to Mendoza. Upon arrival, we’ll make sure you’re comfortably settled into your hotel for a peaceful evening. Get ready for a few days of savoring Argentina’s finest wines in this beautiful region.

A Day of Wine Tasting in Mendoza

After a relaxed morning, we’ll pick you up from your hotel for a delightful half-day excursion through Mendoza’s renowned wine region. You’ll visit two of the area’s top wineries, where you’ll discover their unique approach to winemaking. Of course, you’ll have the opportunity to savor exquisite local Cabernet and Malbec wines—an experience that will surely please your palate.

A Scenic Day in the Andes

After a delicious breakfast, get ready for an unforgettable day trip to the Andes. You’ll be treated to breathtaking views of Mount Aconcagua, the tallest peak in the Americas, as you explore this stunning mountain range.

Your adventure will take you along the Mendoza River, surrounded by the majestic Cordon del Plata and the impressive Potrerillos Dam. As you continue, enjoy the beautiful Cacheuta Valley. During the warmer months, there’s the option to embark on a refreshing hike to Quebrada del Durazno, passing by the serene Horcones Lagoon at the base of Aconcagua.

Journey to Bariloche

In the morning, we’ll pick you up from your hotel and take you to the airport for your flight to Bariloche. On a clear day, enjoy the incredible views as you soar above the deep blue Nahuel Huapi Lake, the snowy peaks of the Andes, and the lush greenery of the surrounding forests.

Once you arrive, take some time to wander through the charming town square, which is beautifully influenced by Swiss architecture. Don’t miss the chance to savor some local chocolates and stroll along the lake, soaking in the breathtaking natural scenery that makes this place so special.

Discovering the Lake District of Argentina

Today, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the stunning beauty of the Lake District.

Marvel at some of the most breathtaking, picture-perfect views of San Carlos de Bariloche. As you visit key vantage points along the way, your guide will share the fascinating story of how this charming mountain village transformed into one of the most popular tourist destinations in Patagonia.

Exploring the Enchanting Lake District of Argentina

Set off from Pañuelo Port on the scenic Llao Llao peninsula and embark on a serene cruise to Centinela Island, where the father of Argentina’s National Parks, Perito Francisco Pascasio Moreno, rests.

Along the way, visit the mesmerizing Cántaros Waterfall and enjoy a walk through the lush Valdivian rainforest. You’ll arrive at Cántaros Lake, where a magnificent 1,500-year-old larch tree stands tall, quietly sharing its ancient energy with those who pause to appreciate it.

Next, you’ll arrive at Puerto Blest, a magical place where the waters dance with striking colors, leaving visitors in awe. Take some time to explore the bay and the shores of the stunning Lago Frías, known for its unique green hue. These waters flow from the glaciers of Cerro Tronador, the majestic natural boundary between Argentina and Chile.

Arrival in Buenos Aires: Begin Your Journey in the Vibrant City

Today, we’ll assist you in catching a short flight to Buenos Aires, where we’ll be there to greet you and escort you to your hotel. Once you’ve settled in, take some time to wander through the charming cobblestone streets of Palermo Soho, filled with trendy boutiques and vibrant street art. If your stay falls over the weekend, you might also have the chance to explore one of the lively city markets, open only on Saturdays and Sundays.

Safe Travels Home

As your incredible journey in Argentina comes to a close, we’re here to ensure your departure is as seamless as possible. We’ll meet you at your hotel, assist with your transfer to the airport, and help you get settled for a peaceful flight back home. Wishing you a safe and pleasant journey ahead. Until next time!

Discover the Charms of Bogota on a Private Tour

Your Bogotá adventure begins with a visit to the lively Paloquemao Market, where the vibrant colors and aromas of fresh produce and flowers will captivate your senses. This bustling market offers a glimpse into the daily life of Bogotá’s locals, immersing you in their rich traditions and customs.

Next, take a stroll through the iconic neighborhood of La Candelaria, the historic heart of the city, where you’ll admire Plaza Bolívar, a place brimming with history and charm.

Later, explore the renowned Gold Museum, home to one of the most impressive collections of pre-Hispanic gold artifacts. With over 35,000 pieces, this museum offers a fascinating journey through the region’s past. Be sure to marvel at the legendary golden raft, a key discovery in the Spanish quest for El Dorado.

This morning, we’ll make sure your journey is as smooth and comfortable as possible by accompanying you to the airport for your flight to Pereira, a key destination in Colombia’s renowned coffee region.

Often regarded as the cultural heart of the country, this region will delight you with breathtaking views at every turn. From the gentle hills adorned with coffee plantations to the grand valleys and mountains, the landscape will captivate you. Staying at a local finca or hacienda will allow you to immerse yourself in the tranquility and beauty of this environment, offering a well-deserved rest surrounded by nature and the warmth of the region.

Discovering the Magic of the Coffee Region

Salento is an Andean town in Colombia located west of Bogota. It is popular for its coffee estates and verdant scenery. On the east side of Salento is Cocora Valley where lofty wax palm trees are home to rare parrots and other birds. 

In 1985, Ceroxylon Quindiuense, a distinct species of a palm tree, was declared the country’s national tree.

We will begin the tour by visiting the Cocora Valley. 

First, you’ll have a welcome cocktail called “Canelazo.” With the assistance of a specialist eco guide, we’ll be ready to start the introduction to the natural reserve of Cocora. 

You will then be transferred to the fog’s forest to witness the biodiversity of fauna and flora. There you’ll find the highest wax palm in the world and the tour won’t be complete without connecting with the earth. We will do a special ritual planting of some palms to pay our respect and appreciation to the wonderful gifts of Mother Nature. 

After the planting, we’ll go to the typical village of Salento, a heritage town characterized by its stunning and colorful traditional architecture. We will stop for lunch and continue visiting Filandia, a little town where you can walk through and adore its colonial streets and beautiful crafts. 

You will also have the opportunity to visit the “La Colina Iluminada” lookout point. It offers a panoramic view of the mountains of the coffee region and you have to get your cameras ready. 

Finally, we will visit a traditional basketry workshop where you will learn the art of making baskets using vegetable fibers.

Medellin: The city of Eternal Spring 

It’s time to be captivated by the vibrant Medellín, a city that never fails to surprise! This morning, you’ll fly to Colombia’s second-largest city, a place renowned not only for its dynamic economy and politics but also for its incredible nightlife, fashion, and safety. Known as the “City of Eternal Spring” due to its pleasant climate year-round, Medellín offers you a unique experience in South America.

Every August, the city comes alive with the famous Feria de las Flores (Flower Festival), a carnival brimming with color, music, dances, and flower grower parades. Medellín is also home to the acclaimed artist Fernando Botero, whose unique vision of Colombian life, its people, and global issues is reflected in his sculptures and paintings. You’ll have the chance to admire his works at various spots around the city, particularly at the Museum of Antioquia, where his legacy is felt in every corner.

On this day, you get to explore and learn more about the rich history of Medellín. Stroll through the hustle and bustle of the CIty of Eternal Spring to the famous Botero Plaza located in Parque el Berrio with an exhibition of Colombian artist Fernando Botero.

In its downtown and historic center, you will also get to see 23 outdoor bronze sculptures which are now a landmark in the city. It would be best to take photos beside the sculptures to add to your travel memories.

Colorful Colombia: Flowers, Nature & Villages

You will start the day in the small village of Santa Elena which is located only an hour outside of Medellín. It is home to a great variety of traditional flower farmers. Visit an organic flower farm to experience the traditional culture of Santa Elena. 

Climb to the top of the Guatape Rock for 360 views of the reservoir. 

Guatapé proper. Guatapé is known for the fresco-like adornment of its traditional houses with brightly painted bas-relief depictions of people, animals, and shapes. Walk through the streets, where your specialized guide will inform you about the history of typical houses, ¨zocalos¨, and this unique culture.

Enjoy a delicious typical Colombian lunch at the waterfront of the Guatapé reservoir. You may also explore the lake on a boat ride and take time to stroll and relax at your own pace.

A Romantic Stroll through Cartagena

Today, you’ll board a flight to Cartagena, Colombia’s coastal gem. Your adventure begins with a visit to the imposing Castillo de San Felipe, the largest Spanish fortress in the Americas. From the top, you’ll be treated to a spectacular view of the old town. This fortress, rich in history, is home to a fascinating labyrinth of tunnels, some of which you can explore. As you walk through these tunnels, you’ll feel the past come to life, uncovering the secrets guarded by its walls.

As the evening falls, there’s nothing more romantic than a horse-drawn carriage ride through the charming cobblestone streets of Cartagena’s old town. With the sun setting, the fresh Caribbean breeze caressing your face, and surrounded by beautiful colonial buildings, balconies adorned with flowers, and a magical atmosphere, you’ll end your first day in Cartagena feeling like you’re part of a fairytale.

Discovering Paradise in the Rosario Islands

Today, you’ll experience an unforgettable adventure in one of the Caribbean’s most idyllic destinations. Boarding a speedboat, you’ll depart from the Cartagena pier and cruise through the bay for about an hour, heading toward the stunning Rosario Islands archipelago. This collection of 27 islands, surrounded by impressive coral reefs, offers the perfect setting to dive into the crystal-clear waters and enjoy an exciting snorkeling adventure.

Once on the island, you can relax on the white sand, bask in the sun, and take a refreshing swim in the sea. After a delicious lunch, you’ll have free time to continue unwinding and swim in the warm Caribbean waters before heading back to Cartagena, taking with you unforgettable memories of this tropical paradise.

See You Soon, Colombia

Saying goodbye to this beautiful country is always the hardest part of any adventure, but at IB, we make sure your departure is as comfortable and stress-free as possible. We’ll be by your side to escort you to the airport, where you can catch your flight back home. We wish you a safe journey and hope to see you again soon!

Take a private colonial tour of Lima’s Historic Center and visit the renowned Larco Herrera Museum.

Wake up refreshed and enjoy breakfast in your hotel this morning. You have the morning to spend at your leisure, exploring the vibrant neighborhood of Miraflores, a foodie paradise.

At the appropriate time mid-day, we’ll collect you and bring you to the Pueblo Libre neighborhood, home to the Larco Herrera Museum.Housing the country’s largest collection of pre-Columbian artifacts, including extensive gold and silver collections, as well as the infamous erotic archaeological collection and providing rare open access to their exquisitely cataloged storage area, this museum is the perfect introduction to Peru’s multi-faceted cultural history.

First, you’ll begin your visit with a delicious lunch enjoyed on the vine-covered terrace of the museum’s café, and then you’ll have time to explore the exhibits.

Next, we’ll delve into the heart of Peru’s “City of Kings,” where you’ll visit the Plaza Mayor, featuring the current President’s palace, the Convent of San Francisco (including subterranean catacombs!), and the Casa Aliaga, which is the western hemisphere’s oldest mansion and still owned and inhabited by the 17th generation of the Aliaga family.

Upon completion of your tour, we will bring you to an exclusive, highly praised restaurant in Lima such as Central or Maido, both currently on the World’s 50 Best Restaurants list.

Fly to Cusco to tour an ancient local hacienda and stop by the agricultural ruins and vibrant market of Pisac. We’ll escort you back to the airport for your morning flight to Cusco in the morning. Watch the windows as the desert coast rises into the snow-capped peaks of the Andes!

Your journey will take you to an ancient hacienda, nestled in the fertile valley next to the pueblo of Pisac.

Step onto the family-owned hacienda grounds and step into centuries past while your hosts expound upon the growing process of Giant White Corn and its profound cultural significance in the Andes Mountains.This hacienda dates back generations, and you’ll immediately be immersed in local customs steeped in the spirits and mysticism of the Andes, and embraced by the warmth of local Peruvians.

Relish your time on the farm with a delicious multi-course lunch with sample dishes featuring none other than the “white gold” giant-kernelled corn, and make sure to visit the on-site stables housing the renowned Peruvian Paso horses. Watch the horses dance with their human counterparts in a “marinera” demonstration, and even go for a quick trot yourself if you feel up to the task.

From there, your exclusive tour of Peru will take you to another valley town – Pisac – where you’ll have the chance to rub shoulders with locals as you survey the artisan offerings of the market. Vegetables, textiles, and silver jewelry are just some of the items that are sold here.

Visit Ollantaytambo’s iconic ruins and Pisac market.

Start your tour of the Sacred Valley in the ancient town of Ollantaytambo, where the centuries-old influence of the Incas is still very much visible. Water from the mountains trickles down to the Inca-built street canals, while the original Inca walls and trapezoidal doors are still standing.

With your guide by your side, ascend beyond the slope-side terraces to the ruins of a centuries-old fortress above the town. This is the spot where the Incas secured an important victory over the Spanish conquistadors. Inspect the intricately hewn stone constructions and have your guide show you the distant quarries from which the Incas sourced their materials. This site also affords fabulous views of the valley and the Urubamba River that meanders through it.

Afterward, your exclusive tour of Peru will take you to another valley town – Pisac – where you’ll have the chance to rub shoulders with locals as you survey the artisan offerings of the market. Vegetables, textiles, and silver jewelry are just some of the items sold here.

End the day with one more archaeological site visit, this time to the abandoned mountainside ruins of the original Inca Pisac village. Look out across verdant Inca farmland that has since been transformed into agricultural farms for modern-day Quechua people. Later, return to the hotel of your choice.

Enjoy a morning train through the cloud forest and visit the Machu Picchu Citadel.

In the morning, we will board the train in Ollantaytambo for our journey to Machu Picchu. Watch the cloud jungle pass by through the large glass windows! Upon arrival at Aguas Calientes, we’ll tuck into an early lunch in order to refuel before ascending to Peru’s lost citadel.

After a bus ride to the gates of this wonder of the world, you will pass through the main gates with your private guide to finally emerge at the top of the world – Machu Picchu. The incredible Inca stone construction will be spread below, alternately hidden and revealed by clouds. Your expert guide will give you a private tour of the ancient city.

Upon conclusion of your tour, return for an evening in Aguas Calientes. Enjoy an excellent dinner on-site at your hotel and fall into bed, lulled to sleep by the sound of the cloud forest around you.

Embark on an exclusive trek up the highly coveted Huayna Picchu!

Today you have the option to hike two different trails – Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, so it’s completely up to you! This will be the culmination of your Machu Picchu luxury tour, so enjoy it however you want.

Adventurous travelers who desire something off-the-beaten-path should hike the steep slope of Huayna Picchu, offering unrivaled views of Machu Picchu. Please note that only a limited amount of hikers are allowed to climb Huayna Picchu each day and tickets will need to be purchased in advance along with your Machu Picchu entrance.

In the afternoon, reconvene in Aguas Calientes and board the return train to Ollantaytambo. Your Kuoda host will meet you at the station and bring you to your hotel for a well-earned evening of rest.

Connect with Andean locals and visit the Andean village of Maras and the famous archaeological site of Moray.

At Moray, experts today believe these grassy amphitheaters served as a farming laboratory, with the varying temperatures and soils of the ascending terraces providing different growing environments. We’ll pass through the town of Maras – known for its beautiful colonial doorways – before arriving at the town’s still-in-use salt pans. The small white evaporation pools that cover the hillside are still harvested by locals in a traditional manner. We’ll pause for a delicious local lunch, where you’ll be able to sample some regional fare.

Post lunch you’ll have a chance to mingle with the locals during a visit to an off-the-beaten-track highland village on the shore of the icy blue Lake Piuray. This rural community subsists on agriculture and many of the women are master weavers, creating exquisite textiles using generations-old techniques.

You will have the opportunity to communicate with the residents, visit their houses and fields, and experience what day-to-day life is like in the Andean highlands. If it is a weekday, you might also get to meet some of the local children who attend Kuoda’s after-school program – they love sharing their art with visitors. Later, you’ll return to your luxury hotel to privately enjoy the evening.

Explore the hidden cobblestone streets of historical Cusco and taste your way through the most iconic Peruvian products.

It’s time to get acquainted with Cusco, a picturesque city that is loved by travelers from all over the world. Wander through the cobblestone streets in the company of your guide who will help illuminate the history of this colonial city. As you explore the city’s sights, Qoricancha and the Santo Domingo monastery, a colonial structure built on top of the ancient Inca temple of the sun, Cusco’s striking cultural blend will soon become apparent.

Roam the atmospheric streets of the bohemian neighborhood of San Blas, which is known for its free-spirited scene; see where the locals make their grocery runs at the open-air San Pedro market and pass the famous 12-angled stone, whose image appears on the bottle of the local Cusqueña beer.

At the end of the tour, your guide will suggest places to enjoy a delicious light local lunch, but make sure to save some room for the snacks that await you in your Peru culinary tour this afternoon.

First make your way to the Coffee Museum, just a ten-minute walk from your hotel, where a stimulating aroma will welcome you in. After a workshop detailing coffee’s history as well as how it is grown, sorted, and roasted, you will be whisked away to the Chocolate Museum.

Did you know that Peru is the birthplace of chocolate? Here you will learn about its spectacular history and the unique process that chocolate undergoes from plant to plate. Best of all, make your own chocolate truffles to bring home with you! Lastly, you will find yourself in the Republica del Pisco to taste an assortment of the country’s spirit of choice paired with Peruvian fusion appetizers. This is the perfect way to know which Pisco variety you’ll want to take home with you.

Spend the morning at your leisure and spend the afternoon whipping up some traditional Peruvian fare.

Today you have a free morning to sleep in and relax, or get up early to watch the Plaza de Armas come to life with the sunrise! You could also opt to roam around and discover Cusco and its fascinating streets and shops. Have a late-morning snack or light lunch, but nothing too heavy, as you will want to show up to your afternoon activity hungry.

In the early afternoon, continue with your Peru culinary tour by heading to one of Cusco’s best restaurants and spending the afternoon learning about Peru’s culinary history and current cuisine from one of the best area chefs. You will learn how to make Peruvian starters and entrees, accompanied by a never-ending stream of snacks and samples fresh from the restaurant’s oven.

Delight your palate with exotic fruits, make Pisco-based cocktails, learn a traditional way to slice vegetables, and spend the afternoon laughing and enjoying this truly special cooking class.

Tour the bohemian streets of Barranco and bid farewell to Peru!

Bid farewell to Peru!

After nearly two weeks of unforgettable memories made in Peru, it’s time to depart home. First, we’ll bring you to Tumbes airport for your return flight to Lima. In Lima, a Kuoda host will meet you and take you to a restaurant in Costa del Sol before returning to the airport for your journey home! Buen viaje!