Bienvenidos! Welcome to Ecuador. The trip begins with a group meeting at 6pm. You can arrive at any time as there are no activities planned until this important meeting; please ask the hotel reception where it will take place. If your flight arrives too late, we recommend that you consider arriving a day early and book a night's accommodation prior to the trip so you are able to attend. If you are going to be late please inform the hotel reception. We'll be collecting your insurance details and next of kin information at this meeting so please ensure you have all details on hand to provide to your leader. Sitting at an altitude of 2,850 m under the gaze of Volcan Pichincha, Quito is one of the most attractive cities in South America. Long and incredibly thin, the city stretches along a central valley formed by the east and west...

We have a very early start today followed by a 350 km drive into the heart of the Amazon to Coca, from where we set off tomorrow on our jungle expedition. Coca is the more commonly known name for Puerto Francisco de Orellana. The city is located at the confluence of the Napo River and the Coca River, which gives the city its nickname. The city is named after Francisco de Orellana, the famous explorer. History says he set off from the current location of the city and made his way deep into the Amazon Jungle, eventually making it to the Atlantic. He later died on a second attempt to cross the jungle, not being able to find his way through. From Coca we board a boat for a 2 hour journey along the Rio Napo, and deep into the heart of the Amazon Rainforest for a 3 night stay camping by a lodge run by the local Kichwa community. The ...

We spend the morning in the jungle and then drive 130 km to the beautiful town of Rio Verde. We stay at a campsite with great facilities. Situated in a valley of waterfalls and hot springs, the region around Rio Verde has year-round temperate weather, a small-town atmosphere and heaps of activities that can get you out and exploring the great Ecuadorian outdoors. Whilst staying here, you will have the opportunity to take part in optional adventure activities such as canyoning, mountain biking and rafting. We will also make the short trip into Banos where you can visit the thermal springs.

We drive for an hour to the town of Quilotoa to see the stunning Crater Lake, and begin one of Ecuador's best day hike back to Chugchilan. We will trek with a local guide, and the mostly downhill trek takes 4-6 hours. A moderate level of fitness is required as the trek is at altitude, but the walking itself is not too strenuous. An early morning the next day starts a 300 km drive on the northern section of the spectacular Quilotoa Loop to the town of Chugchilan where we stay in a hostel. Quilotoa Loop is a name given to the winding circuit of spectacular dirt roads that connect Lake Quilotoa to Latacunga and the Pan-American Highway. The roads that lead away from Latacunga are unpaved, winding and have spectacular views of the mountains, rivers and verdant landscape. We will head to the town of Chugchilán on the northern sect...

Today is a long drive day to the beautiful colonial town of Cuenca. We pass through El Cajas National Park en route and see some stunning scenery. We stay two nights in a centrally located hotel. Possibly the most attractive city in Ecuador, Cuenca has managed to retain its Old World air, despite being the country's third largest city. The city has many 16th and 17th-century buildings, including its cathedral built in 1557, the year the city was founded by the Spanish. However, the city's history stretches back hundreds of years earlier. This was the site of a native Canari village that was later conquered by the Incas and called Tomebamba. The city was said to have rivalled Peru's Cuzco for its beauty, but the glory was short lived and the city was razed during the Inca civil war. The city's history is well preserved, earning ...

Today is a drive day south, crossing into Peru. We camp for three nights outside of Punta Sal, on the shore of the Pacific Ocean. Situated on the shores of the Pacific Ocean in a long, curvy bay, Punta Sal is a haven for sun and sand. The warm and tranquil waters are a pleasure to swim in, and there is also the opportunity to set out on fishing trips and boat trips along the coast. For those who prefer to stay on dry land, horse riding along the beach, or salsa lessons can be arranged. Alternatively, just kick back in a hammock and laze the day away, enjoying the peace and quiet of this beautiful spot. The following two days are free to just relax on the beach or join in some of the activities in and around Punta Sal.

Today we drive 610 km to Huanchaco, visiting Lambayeque and its Lord of Sipan Museum en route. The small Peruvian town of Lambayeque is home to the impressive Museo Tumbas Reales de Sipan, a world-class museum that showcases the finest artefacts from the archaeological finds at nearby Sipan. This area on the north west coast of Peru is well known for its rich historical heritage, and the name Lambayeque originates from the ancient pre-Inca civilisation of the Lambayeques. Amongst the most extraordinary discoveries made here is the famous 'Lord of the Sipan' - a Moche priest found buried amidst an array of gold, jewels and fabrics. On arrival in Huanchaco we camp at a site with good facilities. The resort town of Huanchaco is home to the surfing fishermen. Balancing on canoes constructed of buoyant reeds, the fishermen cruise t...

A full day's drive of 530 km brings us to Peru's capital, Lima, arriving late in the afternoon. We stay in a comfortable hotel in the city centre. While Peru's capital officially began life in 1535, when Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro founded the city on the Day of the Three Kings, settlements had been scattered through the valley since before the Incas. The city was built on top of an existing palace and temples that belonged to the local chief who had little choice but to move on. Lima was in its prime during the Spanish colonial days and much of the city's attraction now lies in its well-preserved historical centre. While you are here there are many museums you can visit such as the Museo de la Nacion and the Gold Museum, which showcase the finest artefacts from the country's many ancient civilisations. You can also ...

Bienvenidos! Welcome to Peru. The trip begins with a group meeting at 6pm. You can arrive at any time as there are no activities planned until this important meeting; please ask the hotel reception where it will take place. If your flight arrives too late, we recommend that you consider arriving a day early and book a night's accommodation prior to the trip so you are able to attend. If you are going to be late please inform the hotel reception. We'll be collecting your insurance details and next of kin information at this meeting so please ensure you have all details on hand to provide to your leader. While Peru's capital officially began life in 1535, when Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro founded the city on the Day of the Three Kings, settlements had been scattered through the valley since before the Incas. The city wa...

We have a very early start and head south and out of Lima to begin a 270 km drive to Paracas. There we board a boat trip to the Ballestas Islands to view wildlife before returning to Paracas to explore the national park. We will bush camp either in Paracas National Park or in Huacachina, Spanning 335,000 hectares of land and sea, Paracas National Park is widely regarded as one of the most important marine reserves in the world. This coastal and marine national park is located on a peninsula in the Pacific Ocean and is home to one of the highest concentration of marine birds in the world. Providing a vital habitat for sea lions and dolphins, Paracas is without doubt one of the most biologically diverse coastal areas in the Americas. The Ballestas Islands has weird and wonderful wildlife. From the boat trip you will be able to se...

In the morning we will have a chance to stock up on supplies before driving approximately 200 km to Nazca where we camp. En route we have the chance to glimpse the Nazca lines from a viewing platform. The entire desert in the Nazca area was once home to the ancient Nazca and Paracas cultures which preceded the Incas by over 500 years. Remains of their cultures are still visible - Nazca is home to the famous and enigmatic Nazca lines, enormous designs inscribed in the desert on the arid high plateau. The enormous lines have been etched into the ground by scraping away the top darker layer of gravel which then contrasts with the paler one underneath. Animals, insects and birds are depicted, and some of the simpler line formations are up to 10 km (32 miles) in length. Who drew them, how and why, can only be guessed at, but theori...

This morning there is time for an optional flight over the mysterious Nazca lines. These mysterious shapes are better seen from the air. Small four/six seater planes offer 30 minute flights that allow viewing all 26 figures scattered through the desert floor. Warning! Planes turn sharply from one side to another to facilitate viewing from both sides of the plane. Plastic bags are provided on board but needless to say, this flight is not recommended for those with a weak stomach. A safety note. A number of local operators offer flights over the Nazca lines. It should be noted that there have been numerous safety issues over Nazca in the past – as such Intrepid has used its best endeavors to assess the safety of the operation of some of these companies. While it is impossible to guarantee the safety of air operations, your lea...

A 380 km drive takes us to altitude and to the ‘white city’ of Arequipa where we overnight in a good quality hotel. Standing at the foot of El Misti Volcano and oozing the best of Spanish colonial charm, Arequipa vies with Cuzco for the title of Peru's most attractive city. Built out of a pale volcanic rock called sillar, the old buildings dazzle in the sun, giving the city its nickname - the 'White City'. The main plaza, with its cafes and nearby cathedral, is a lovely place to while away the day. The following day is free to explore Arequipa. No trip to Arequipa would be complete without paying a visit to Juanita, the "Ice Maiden." This mummy of a young Inca girl has been described as one of the 10 most important historical discoveries of recent times by Time Magazine. Because the body was frozen at such low temperatures an...

There is time this morning to further explore Arequipa, before driving 150 km to Chivay. Tonight perhaps pay an optional visit to the thermal springs. Chivay is home to some natural hot springs that provide a welcome relief from the cold night air high up here in the Andes. The springs are known as "La Calera" and are located just a short distance outside the town. The following day we drive the short distance to the spectacular Colca Canyon to view the condors. The River Colca runs from high in the Andes right down to the Pacific, and between Chivay and Cabanaconde it flows through the bottom of a deep gorge, often claimed to be the deepest in the world. It is certainly spectacularly beautiful, the vast Andean terraces tower up over the canyon, dotted by tiny villages that haven't changed in centuries. The canyon is also renow...

Drive day to Raqchi and stay overnight in local homestay. We stay in traditional family houses with clean but basic facilities. Whilst we are there we enjoy some of the ceremonial aspects of village life as well as much singing and dancing. This is a great local experience. A small village situated a short distance outside of Cuzco, Raqchi is well known for its talented craftspeople and the beautiful handmade and intricately decorated pottery that is made here. We stay in Raqchi as guests of the local families in their traditional houses, a fantastic way to get a real insight into how people live here and to learn about their culture and customs. If we are lucky there may be the chance to participate in some of the ceremonial and spiritual aspects of village life - and there is always plenty of singing and dancing as we get to ...

In the morning we visit the ruins at Raqchi and also a local artisan centre. In the afternoon we drive 160 km to Cuzco. The Cuzco region truly is the heart and soul of Peru. The city itself is the continent's oldest continuously inhabited city and was the home of the Incas for two centuries before the Spanish built their first capital here. Today Cuzco is a fascinating combination of both cultures. Inca-built walls line the central streets and many of the elegant colonial buildings are built on or around Inca foundations. This is a city steeped in history, tradition and legend and is a perfect base for explorations into the Inca world or to enjoy a range of outdoor activities. Take the time to acclimatise to the city's 3,450 m (11,150 ft) altitude and explore the many Baroque churches and ancient temples that dot the city. The...

Bienvenidos! Welcome to Peru. The trip begins with a group meeting at 10am to meet your crew and your fellow travellers. Following the meeting, the rest of the day is free to explore Cuzco. At 5pm, there will be a second meeting. This time specifically to discuss the plan for the hiking days ahead. You can arrive at any time as there are no activities planned until this important meeting; please ask the hotel reception where it will take place. If your flight arrives too late, we recommend that you consider arriving a day early and book a night's accommodation prior to the trip so you are able to attend. If you are going to be late please inform the hotel reception. We'll be collecting your insurance details and next of kin information at this meeting so please ensure you have all details on hand to provide to your leader. The...

The next 4 days are spent trekking in the Andes. We will begin with a tour of the Sacred Valley before beginning either the Community Trek or the Classic Inca Trail to the world heritage site of Machu Picchu. Please see below for the itineraries of each of these options. We will typically leave Cuzco first thing in the morning and drive to Sacsayhuaman ruins which are just 15 minutess from our hotel. These ruins are best known for the gigantic blocks that make up the zigzag frontal of this fort like construction. There are many theories as to why Sacsayhuaman was originally built and what it was used for but the most likely is that it was a temple complex where offerings were made to appease the gods. Sacsayhuaman is an amazing place and the early morning light makes the great view of the Cuzco rooftops that we get here even mo...

Today the trekkers and non-trekkers will all meet up for a guided tour of Machu Picchu with a local expert. Following the tour there will be free time to explore the site before catching the train back to Cuzco. Machu Picchu is one of those genuinely magical places, and catching your first glimpse of the lost city of the Incas through the early morning mist is definitely a moment you’ll never forget. The ruins of this forgotten city are stunningly located, perched high in the Andes surrounded by verdant cloud forest, with the river Urambamba running through the gorge far below. Hidden away on a ridge between the mountains, Machu Picchu is invisible from below, so it's no surprise it's ruins remained a secret for so many years. Historians believe the city was probably completely self-contained, surrounded by agricultural terra...

In the morning we have a 440 km drive to Puno. Located on the shores of Lake Titicaca, Puno is a melting pot of Aymara and Quechuan Indian culture and traditional Andean customs are still strongly represented here. The town is known as the folklore capital of Peru and is famous for its traditional dances. Many festivals are celebrated here, so if you're lucky your visit might coincide with one of the colourful evening parades, when the streets fill with costumed dancers and musicians. En route to Puno we will visit the Sillustani ruins and museum. Tucked away in between the many small villages around Puno are the ruins of Sillustani . These ruined towers are set on a beautiful peninsula near Lake Umayo, built by a pre-Inca civilisation hundreds of years ago. The Sillustani Indians built several "Chullpas", funeral towers whose ...

We head out on a boat on Lake Titicaca to the floating reed islands of Uros before a 200 km drive takes us across the Bolivian border to the lakeside town of Copacabana where we overnight in a hotel. A picturesque town on the shores of Lake Titicaca with an amazing Moorish-style cathedral, Copacabana is a great place to people watch especially if you're there over a weekend or on one of the many festivals. On Sundays the town fills with the faithful believers who walk up Cerro Calvario (the hill guarding the town) to make their dreams come true. At the top of the hill numerous stalls sell all manner of miniature material goods from cars and buses through to houses and graduation certificates. The selected items are taken to a small alter where they are blessed, decorated with flowers and petals, incense is burnt and finally bee...

A 160 km drive brings us to La Paz, Bolivia’s capital where we have time to explore the city and do optional activities. Overnight good quality colonial hotel in central La Paz. At around 3,600 metres, La Paz is one of the highest cities in the world. Although Sucre is the official capital of Bolivia, La Paz is the centre of commerce, finance and industry. Despite the abundance of colonial architecture, La Paz's indigenous roots run deep, and the atmosphere in the market-filled streets is both modern and traditional. The old town is full of markets and winding cobbled streets full of people selling anything and everything you could ever think of. Different areas of the city have established markets selling things you'd expect like food and flowers, and also things you've probably never seen before - check out the dried llama ...

Kamisaki! Welcome to Bolivia. The trip begins with a group meeting at 6pm. You can arrive at any time as there are no activities planned until this important meeting; please ask the hotel reception where it will take place. If your flight arrives too late, we recommend that you consider arriving a day early and book a night's accommodation prior to the trip so you are able to attend. If you are going to be late please inform the hotel reception. We'll be collecting your insurance details and next of kin information at this meeting so please ensure you have all details on hand to provide to your leader. At around 3,600 metres, La Paz is one of the highest cities in the world. Although Sucre is the official capital of Bolivia, La Paz is the centre of commerce, finance and industry. Despite the abundance of colonial architecture,...

Today we will leave La Paz very early after breakfast and head to to the colonial mining town of Potosi, the highest town in the world. Here we stay in a friendly, local hotel. The highest city of its kind in the world, Potosi has had a turbulent past, centred mostly around its mining successes and failures. During the Spanish colonial days, the extensive mining of Potosi's silver rich Cerro Rico was said to have kept Spain running for 300 years. During this time, Potosi briefly celebrated life as one of the richest cities in the world. In the 1800s, the supply of silver declined as did the market price and the city started to suffer. Working conditions in the mines were appalling and huge numbers of indigenous people died. African slaves were brought in to replace them and it's said that as many as 8 million people died in the...

This morning there is time for optional activities in Potosi before we journey 190 km to Uyuni, gateway to the salt flats of the Salar de Uyuni. We overnight in a friendly hotel serving the highest pizzas in the world! Arriving in Uyuni feels a bit like you've reached the end of the road, which in many ways is true. This remote small town sits on the edge of the high altiplano, a wilderness that extends for hundreds of kilometres towards the border with Argentina and Chile. So it's hardly surprising that the town has a bit of a wild west feel about it. Uyuni is best known for its proximity to the Bolivian salt flats known locally as the Salar de Uyuni. The following day we spend out in jeeps exploring the salt flats. The Bolivian salt flats are a truly unforgettable sight. This is a landscape unlike anything you're likely to ha...

Today we cross the altiplano on a spectacular 320 km drive towards the Chilean border via Laguyna Colorado and Laguna Verde. We stay the night in a basic hostel. The high Bolivian altiplano stretches hundreds of kilometres from the small town of Uyuni out across to the borders with Argentina and Chile. This is real wilderness, there are no roads up here, just a few tracks to follow, and you are more likely to see a flamingo or llama than another human being. The only way to cross the altiplano is by travelling in a specialist expedition vehicle like one of our trucks, or local jeeps. The crossing is an adventurous one, with no roads to speak of. It is rough travelling and the trip from Uyuni to the border normally takes a couple of days, but it is without a doubt one of the most unforgettable journeys you'll ever make. The alt...

Border information: Exit Bolivia at Uyuni, enter Chile at San Pedro de Atacama.Today we set off early from our altiplano refuge, cross the remainder of the Bolivian Altiplano, and then descend all the way into the Atacama desert.Drive time - 8 hours On the following day we will have a free day to explore the incredible highlights of the Atacama desert surrounding San Pedro. In the evening we will take an included trip out to the extraordinary Moon Valley, where we will hopefully see an incredible sunset. At night we will also have the chance to go stargazing, in one of the world's premier regions for astronomy (please note that this is only possible when there is not a full moon). In San Pedro de Atacama we will stay in a centrally located hostel.

A full day's drive takes us to the fine Spanish colonial city of Salta. We stay in a simple hotel in the centre of the city. Salta's rich history, colonial architecture, surrounding natural attractions and friendly locals make this town of half a million people one of Argentina's main attractions. The central square, Plaza 9 de Julio, has been called the nicest plaza in all of Argentina, with its lush gardens, fountains, statues and beautiful white buildings including the Cabildo, Cathedral and Casa del Gobierno (Government House). The following day is free to explore Salta.

Today we drive 150 km to Cafayate, at the centre of Argentina's principal wine producing region. We stay at a campsite with good facilities. Cafayate is a small town in north west Argentina, and an important wine growing area. The surrounding vineyards produce some of the best quality wine in South America, and you should look out for the torrontes in particular - a distinctive white wine that is typically Argentinian and similar in style to a sauvignon blanc or pinot grigio. Cafayate itself is small with a sleep laidback feel, although it can become busy during Argentinian holiday periods. Many of the local bodegas offer tastings and tours of their wine cellars and this is easily organised while you are here. Also worth seeking out is the local ice cream parlour which, together with the more usual flavours, offers red and whit...

We cover approximately 400 km as we head south through beautiful scenery, visiting the Quilmes ruins en route. We camp tonight. The ruins of Quilmes are located in Tucaman province in north west Argentina. The people of Quilmes were an indigenous tribe who inhabited this area as far back as AD 1000, resisting Inca invasions in the 15th and 16th centuries, and even holding out against the Spanish for over one hundred years before finally succumbing to a siege in 1667. After the siege the Spanish took the area over, deporting the few surviving indigenous people to a reservation near Buenos Aires. The 2000 remaining Quilmes people were forced to make this 1500 km journey on foot, which meant that many died along the way. At its height, the city we see the ruins of here would have housed nearly 5000 people. Today there are only a h...

A 270 km drive brings us to a unique 3 night stay at an Anglo-Argentinian estancia. We camp within the grounds of the estancia and spend time with the gauchos learning their skills, hiking and having a traditional asado or Argentinian barbecue. The estancia has been in the same family for four generations, and is a working cattle ranch, farming the prized Argentinian Aberdeen Angus cattle. Here we will sample traditional hospitality, with great food straight from the farm. An asado or Argentinian barbecue with local wines will also be enjoyed on one of our nights here. The visit to the estancia is based on horse riding excursions and daily expeditions will be arranged to ride through the hills to neighbouring estancias. The horses are fabulous and even the most horse-fearing will feel like gauchos in a short time. For those w...

We leave the estancia today and make our way towards Mendoza, covering around 300 km. We will find somewhere to camp for the night en route. A further 300 km the next day brings us to the beautiful town of Mendoza where we stay in a hostel for 2 nights. Here you have the chance to take part in various optional activities from wine tasting to mountain biking. Mendoza is Argentina's most important grape growing region, producing 70% of the country's wine. Malbec is the region's signature variety. The city centre is beautifully landscaped and full of trees, squares and parks. During the day Peatonal Sarmiento (Sarmiento pedestrian street) is the place to be. This coffee shop-lined street joins the busy San Martin St with Plaza Independencia making it a must destination for all mendocinos coming to the city. Near Plaza Independen...

A 340 km drive takes us across the border and into Chile and its capital, Santiago. We spend the night in a centrally located hotel. Although Santiago covers a large area, the city centre is quite compact and easy to get around. The city's centre is roughly triangular in shape with the Plaza de Armas, the main plaza and home to the Cathedral, sitting in the centre. Panning out from here are wall-to-wall shops, restaurants and parks. For a more serene look at Chilean life, head out to Barrio Bella Vista, Santiago's 'Paris Quarter'. There are no activities planned for the final day and you are able to depart the accommodation at any time.

Border information:Welcome to Santiago, the capital of Chile: If you are starting in Santiago, enter Chile at Santiago Airport. Today there will be a trip meeting at 18:00 hrs. There are no activities planned so you can arrive at any time before the meeting. We will stay in a good quality hostel in central Santiago. The trip will leave Santiago tomorrow morning, so we suggest you might fly to Santiago a day earlier if you want to visit any sites in the city.

Today we leave Santiago for a full day's drive south to Pucon and the Lake District of Chile. In Pucon we stay in dorm accommodation in a hostel. Drive time - 11-12 hours (please note that all drive times given here are approximate estimates only and are given with the best intentions - however please be aware that the drive times are heavily dependent on traffic, road conditions, weather, police roadblocks, and many other factors - flexibility is essential on any overland trip!).

We have two free days in Pucon, with a range of activities available from hiking to hot springs. Activities Discover the Chilean Lake District Included in Kittie

Border information: Exit Chile at Mamuil Malal, enter Argentina at Mamuil Malal. Today we cross the Andes into Argentina and continue our journey to the picturesque town of Bariloche via the scenic Ruta de los Siete Lagos (Seven Lakes Route). In Bariloche we stay in dorm beds in a hostel outside of town. Activities Overland through the stunning Argentinian Lake District Included in Kittie Drive time - 10 hours.

Two free days to enjoy this beautiful mountain town. Perhaps explore on a mountain bike, take a trip along the river in a kayak or enjoy the delights on a chocolate factory tour! Activities USD 80

Full day's drive south on the legendary Ruta 40 (Route 40). Tonight we bush camp in the Rio Mayo area. Drive time - 12 hours.

We continue south to the Rio Pinturas area. Visit to the UNESCO site of Cueva de las Manos (Cave of the Hands). Tonight we bush camp for the night. Drive time - 6 hours. Activities Visit the UNESCO site Cueva de las Manos at Río Pinturas Included in Kittie

Drive day to El Chalten, situated in Los Glaciares National Park and famous for its world class trekking opportunities. In El Chalten we stay in dorm accommodation in a hostel. Drive time - 10 hours.

Three days to enjoy the stunning Los Glaciares National Park and Fitzroy National Park where lots of treks are available. There is also a wide range of activities available from horse riding to glacier trekking and a boat trip on Viedma Lake. ActivitiesGlacier trek, hikes and horseriding in Los Glaciares National Park USD50

We head south, overlanding across the Patagonian steppe. Tonight we bush camp for the night. Drive time - 10 hours.

Exit Argentina at Integracion Austral, enter Chile at Integracion Austral Continuing south we head to the Island of Tierra del Fuego via a ferry crossing over the infamous Magellan Straits. Visit the small King Penguin colony by Bahia Inutil. Tonight we bush camp for the night. Drive time - 5 hours.

Exit Chile at San Sebastian, enter Argentina at San Sebastian Today we cross back into Argentina and drive to Ushuaia, the southernmost town in the world. In Ushuaia we stay in dorm beds in a hostel. Drive time - 7 hours.

We have 2 full days in Ushuaia with time for optional activities such as a visit to Tierra del Fuego National Park. Activities Beagle channel boat trips USD40 Guided tour of Tierra del Fuego National Park ARS310

Border information: Exit Argentina at San Sebastian, enter Chile at San Sebastian. We head north on a full day's drive and take the ferry back onto mainland Chile. Tonight we bush camp for the night. Drive time - 9 hours.

Today we drive to Torres del Paine National Park. This is one of the most outstanding areas of beauty in Chile and the highlight of the trip for many passengers. We stop en rouite in Puerto Natales to pick up our local guides and cook as all meals will be catered for while in Torres del Paine NP Tonight we camp for the night at a stunning lakeside campsite with facilities. Drive time - 6 hours. Activities 4 days to explore and trek the rugged Torres del Paine National Park Included in Kittie

During the next few days you will get to walk part of the famous W-walk circuit with a local guide. You can also complete the full trek if you have pre-booked this option. Today we take the catamaran across Lake Pehoe to the Paine Grande Campsite. From here the group splits into 2 groups (base package group and W-walk extension group) and we walk with our respective local guides to view Glacier Grey. We then walk back down to Paine Grande where we will spend the night camping. Approximate distance: 22 km, estimated duration: 8 hrs. Activities W-walk extension - 2 days The package includes 2 nights camping with facilities, food for the duration of the trek and the service of an expert English speaking local guide. Please note that this package must be pre booked through your sales agent. Please book as early as possible to en...

Base package group: If you have not opted for the optional 2 day W-walk extension package, this morning will be free time around Paine Grande. You then board the catamaran back to Pudeto, where the truck will meet you and drive you to our campsite for the night. W-walk extension group: If you have chosen the optional 2 day W-walk extension, you will leave Paine Grande and trek up the French Valley with your local guide. From here you will continue trekking to Campsite Cuernos where you will spend the night camping. Approximate distance: 27 km, estimated duration: 11 hrs.

Base package group: Today is free for those that have not booked the W-walk optional 2 day extension package. There are many other optional activities available near our campsite, or maybe take a day to relax and just enjoy the spectacular views from the campsite. W-walk extension group: For those of you that continue on the W-walk, your local guide will direct you along Lago Nordenskjold to Las Torres Campsite where you will spend the night camping. Approximate distance: 11 km, estimated time: 5 hrs. Activities Zodiac boat trips, horse rides and trekking in Torres del Paine National Park USD90

Today is our last full day in this beautiful National Park. Base package group: The truck will take us to the base of the famous three peaks which give the name to the park. From there we will walk up the Torres with our local guide before we make our way back to the truck and onto our campsite for the night. Approximate distance: 20 km, estimated time: 8 hrs. W-walk extension group: This morning we will hike up to see the Torres and come back down to Las Torres Campsite where the Dragoman truck will be waiting to return the whole group to the campsite for the night. Approximate distance: 20 km, estimated time: 8 hrs.

Exit Chile at Cerro Castillo, enter Argentina at Cerro Castillo. Today we enter Argentina and drive to El Calafate, gateway to the Perito Moreno Glacier. In El Calafate we stay in dorm accommodation in a lovely hostel. Drive time - 9 hours.

Today we go on a full day's guided visit to view the stunning Perito Moreno Glacier, one of the more spectacular sights in Patagonia. Activities Guided full day trip to the Perito Moreno Glacier Included in Kitties Boat trip beneath the Perito Moreno Glacier ARS180

Today is a full day's drive towards the Atlantic coast. Tonight we will spend the night in a basic campsite. Drive time - 10 hours.

We continue north to Camarones. If time and conditions allow we might visit the Jaramillo Petrified Forest en route. In Camarones we stay in campsite. Drive time - 9 hours.

This morning we visit the colony of Magellanic penguins in Cabo dos Bahias, close to Camarones, before driving to Puerto Madryn. In Puerto Madryn we stay in a campsite with facilities. Drive time - 4 hours.

Today is a free day for activities around Puerto Madryn. You have the chance to visit the Valdes Peninsula to see its abundant marine life or perhaps go for afternoon tea in a Welsh Tea house in Gaiman or Trelew. Activities Visit to the Valdes Peninsula to meet the elephant seals and sealions ARS60

Full day's drive heading north towards Buenos Aires. Tonight we will bush camp for the night, perhaps near Monte Hermoso. Drive time - 12 hours

Another full day's drive will take us to the cosmoplitan capital of Buenos Aires. In BA we stay in a centrally located hotel. Drive time - 11 hours.

Today is a free day in this fantastic city with a chance for you to explore. Activities Discover the beautiful Teatro Colon on a tour around the theatre, or see one of its free afternoon performances (when available) Included in Kittie Explore the fascinating streets of La Boca, home of the La Bombonera football stadium and the colouful artists' street of Caminito Discover the beautiful back streets, antique shops, and thrift markets of the bohemian district of San Telmo Take the passenger ferry over to the Uruguayan capital of Montevideo for a night (if time allows) USD140 Take the ferry over the river to Uruguay, and explore the serene colonial town of Colonia del Sacramento for the afternoon before returning USD45 Head out to an tango show in Buenos Aires' oldest cafe, the Gran Cafe Tortoni - seeing a slice of iconic Ar...

Bienvenidos! Welcome to Argentina. The trip begins with a group meeting at 6pm. You can arrive at any time as there are no activities planned until this important meeting; please ask the hotel reception where it will take place. If your flight arrives too late, we recommend that you consider arriving a day early and book a night's accommodation prior to the trip so you are able to attend. If you are going to be late please inform the hotel reception. We'll be collecting your insurance details and next of kin information at this meeting so please ensure you have all details on hand to provide to your leader. Buenos Aires must be the ultimate cosmopolitan city. With Latin passion, European elegance and a distinctive style all of its own, this is a city that will steal your heart. The Portenos (the local residents) are justifiably...

Today we drive roughly 415 km towards Concordia where we bush camp for the night. Concordia lies on the western shore of the Uruguayan River and is the national capital of citrus production. The river dissects Argentina from Uruguay and many people take rail and road journeys to and from Concordia to Salto in Uruguay.

A 560 km drive takes us to the Jesuit Mission of San Ignacio de Mini. We spend the night at a campsite with facilities. The small town of San Ignacio Mini was once the centre of a Jesuit mission and its ruins can still be seen today. The buildings are very well preserved and include a church, cemetery and monastery and provide an interesting insight to the history of this area.

Today we cross the border to Brazil and drive to Foz do Iguacu. Here we spend three nights camping outside town in the grounds of a hostel with good facilities and a pool. At over 2 km long, Iguazu Falls are actually a series of cataracts. There are over 270 falls in all, and with some reaching up to 80m in height, they are wider than Victoria Falls and higher than Niagara. Legend has it that a serpent god intended to marry a beautiful girl called Naipi. She escaped in a canoe with her mortal lover Caroba and in a jealous rage the god chased them, collapsing the river before them so that Naipi plunged over the falls to become a rock, while Caroba became a tree, forever unable to touch his love. A more scientific explanation is that the Rio Iguazu flows over a riverbed of basalt that ends where the lava cooled, leaving the water...

Today is an all day drive day as we travel 800 km drive to Bonito where we camp at a good site with a pool. The area around the small town of Bonito really is unique. Its main attractions are its crystal clear rivers, springs and caves, not to mention the abundant wildlife, which includes monkeys, alligators, anaconda, over 30 varieties of fish and tremendous birdlife. Unsurprisingly, the town is often described as the "ecotourism capital of Brazil". There are endless activities on offer, from spectacular walks through the surrounding hills and forest, to caving, horse-riding, abseiling, and snorkelling. Many of the best attractions are on private land and the area is being very carefully managed in order as to protect the wildlife and habitats found here. The next two days are non-driving days allowing you free time to enjoy t...

We spend the next 3 days in Brazil's amazing Southern Pantanal. From a ranch base we explore the surrounding area on horseback, from boats and canoes, from farm trucks and on foot before on the third day we drive in the afternoon roughly 250 km to a bush camp. About the size of France, the Pantanal is the world's largest wetland area and one of the best wildlife spotting places on the continent. Sixty-five million years ago, the Pantanal was an inland sea that gradually dried out. These days the vast alluvial plain is seasonally flooded by the Paraguay River, giving a home to a wonderfully diverse wildlife. Jabirus and macaws are frequently spotted and with any luck we'll see howler monkeys, giant otters, anteaters, macaws and caiman (although hopefully not too close). Unfortunately, the area's fantastic wildlife has brought ...

Today is a full day 650 km drive to the remote town of Brotas in southeast Brazil. We stay at a camp site with good facilities. Located in southeast Brazil, in the state of Sao Paulo, the remoteness of Brotas has meant that the forests surrounding this isolated town are teeming with species crucial to the maintenance of global biodiversity. The perfect location in which to experience untouched natural environments, Brotas has subsequently become an important destination in Brazilian eco-tourism. Alongside those visiting to enjoy the remarkable fauna that inhabit this area, Brotas is gradually acquiring a reputation for the quality of the adventure activities that are on offer such as horse riding and canyoning, rafting and kayaking.

We drive 450 km to Paraty on the Emerald Coast where we have 3 nights at a beachside campsite with facilities. There is plenty of free time to explore, including boat trip out to a small island to go snorkelling or diving. Sitting between Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo, Paraty is one of the world's best preserved Portuguese colonial towns. This World Heritage-listed town was originally settled in 1531 on the opposite side of the river but in the 17th century the Indians who lived on the current site were driven away and the town moved. Paraty later became a booming port town, famous for its sugar cane liquor but after the abolition of slavery it was slowly forgotten. With the opening of new roads, the town was 'rediscovered' and declared a national monument. The patron saint of Paraty is Our Lady of the Medicines. Three hundred ...

Please note that for trips ending in Rio for Carnaval, the itinerary will be slightly different. These departures will spend one less night in Rio and will not visit the Morrinho Project. They will instead spend an extra night in Brotas. Today we drive 240 km into Rio, one of the most beautifully situated cities in the world. We stay in a great hotel in Flamengo, close to the beach. The locals like to say that 'God made the world in six days, the seventh he devoted to Rio'. In this heaving metropolis, set against the luminescent green of Guanabara Bay and surrounded by the slopes of Sugarloaf and Corcovado, it's hard not to be caught up in the passion of the city's residents (known as Cariocas). The French were the first to settle here as they logged wood along the Brazilian coast, but they were soon driven out by the Portugu...