Simple stays with essential amenities. Typically guesthouses, hostels or hotels rated below 3 stars — clean, no-frills, and great for value-conscious travelers.
Comfortable and reliable 3-star stays. Expect private rooms, en-suite bathrooms, and solid amenities — a great balance between comfort and cost.
Upscale 4-5 star hotels and lodges. Enjoy high-end service, refined comfort, and premium locations — ideal for travelers seeking extra indulgence.
Our accommodation in Rio Bamba was terrible, I felt I could not use the shower as it was so dilapidated. We only had one towel that had already been ripped in half. We felt it would have been hygenically unsafe to use the 'restaurant' and went out for breakfast. We were unsure why we went to Rio Bamba as it was not a nice place and it felt unsafe at night. Apart from 4 nights the accommodation was quite good. Our guide was incredibly knowledgeable and spoke to us for most of the time during the coach journeys. Nothing was too much trouble for him to do for us. The itinerary was very good apart from Rio Bamba (which should have been avoided) and a wasted last day in Quito. We could have caught an earlier flight to Quito, from Cuenca, the next day and not spent another day in a hotel that is a long way from Quito city which we had already explored.. Also it would have been better to have flown from Cuenca on the early morning flight to Quito then straight to Bogota and the to LHR.
Active and outdoorExplorer
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
It's been an incredible experience. There was nothing missing from this trip: great company, incredible places, the challenge of hiking at high altitude, loads of food. Thanks to Rolo for being such an amazing guide.
Active and outdoor
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Initially before booking the trip I thought it was extremely overpriced.
However(our tour guide) was fantastic. He made the trip worth every penny and was extremely organised and knowledgeable. The locations were great, and the activities were really cool.
was a fantastic character, and became a friend by ensuring we all had fun. He looked after and catered for everyone’s needs and requirements, promoting safety above all else, and more than once went the extra mile to ensure we all had a great time (joining myself at CrossFit and his traditional dance moves were personal highlights).
I hope he gets the recognition he deserves, as I would love to book a similar trip with Contiki in future because of this great experience.
I would also recommend that you include huacachina in future - I went there on my own and it was one of the coolest experiences - maybe this could be added as an extra at the beginning of the trip.
Adventure
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel, Lodge, Home-stay
Age Range
18-35 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Lima, Cusco, Puerto Maldonado, S
Lima, Cusco, Puerto Maldonado, Sacred Valley, Aguas Calientes, Arequipa, Puno
This was my first time in South America, and honestly, this tour was everything I hoped it would be and more. I was a bit nervous doing it solo but the small group setup made it super easy to meet people. The itinerary was well-balanced between structured tours and free time.
Cartagena was absolutely beautiful like stepping into a painting. The Coffee Triangle was a surprising.. got to try some of the freshest coffee I’ve ever had.
Bogota cooler, more urban. The views from Monserrate were incredible. Then we flew to Peru, and Machu Picchu... I still don’t have words. It was emotional. The guides were amazing and knew so much history.
Lake Titicaca was peaceful and surreal. Would 100% recommend this tour to anyone who loves a mix of nature, history, and culture. Take altitude sickness seriously, though — drink the coca tea!
Coffee and tea tours
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel, Lodge
Age Range
8-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Lima, Cartagena, Sacred Valley
Lima, Cartagena, Sacred Valley, Armenia, Cusco, Puno, Bogota, Urubamba
Wine, gourmet cuisine, and the breathtaking landscapes of the Southern Andes await on this 14-day luxury food and wine tour through Argentina and Chile. Designed with both experienced travelers and seniors in mind, this guided journey blends sophisticated tastes with the natural wonders of Patagonia and the Lake Districts.
Start in Buenos Aires, the Paris of South America, where you’ll savor exquisite Argentine dinners paired with local wines and stroll through the city’s iconic milongas. From there, travel to Bariloche, renowned for its lakes and chocolate, and cross the majestic Andes into Chile, soaking in panoramic vistas of lakes, volcanoes, and snow-capped peaks.
Experience the authentic gaucho lifestyle in San Antonio de Areco, visiting traditional ateliers and historic pulperias in the heart of the pampas. Throughout the tour, you’ll indulge in curated wine tastings, gourmet meals, and cultural immersions designed to elevate your senses.
What makes this tour package truly unique is the seamless blend of luxury, local tradition, and natural beauty—offering guests a refined yet adventurous exploration of South America’s most celebrated regions.
Wine tasting tours
Tour Type
Private Tour
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
5-79 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Buenos Aires, Santiago, Mendoza
Buenos Aires, Santiago, Mendoza, Andes Mountains, Puerto Varas, Patagonia, San Carlos de Bariloche, Puerto Montt, Uco Valley, San Antonio De Areco, Pulperias, Isla Negra
Step into a world where ancient history and diverse landscapes meet on the "Peruvian Pathways" tour, a 14-day hiking and trekking adventure looping from Lima. This challenging journey is crafted for those who relish active exploration—travel from the Amazon’s lush depths, through the soaring Andes, to the mystical islands of Lake Titicaca. Along the way, immerse yourself in local customs, witness daily Peruvian life, and marvel at geological wonders. With all accommodation, transport, and meals included, this small group trip ensures you experience the full spectrum of Peru’s culture and natural beauty. Its unique selling point? The rare opportunity to combine high-altitude adventure with deep cultural discovery, making it an unforgettable trip for passionate explorers.
Trekking and Hiking
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Camping, Lodge, Eco Lodge
Age Range
15-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Lima, Cusco, Puno, Puerto Maldon
Lima, Cusco, Puno, Puerto Maldonado, Sacred Valley, Ollantaytambo, Machu Picchu
From the heights of Cotopaxi volcano to the dense Amazon forest and the iconic Galapagos Islands, this 14-day adventure will take you through the unique landscapes of Ecuador. Starting in Quito, you’ll learn why this vibrant city is a UNESCO world heritage site and take a trip to the middle of the Earth with a visit to the equator. You’ll get close with the local Indigenous communities with community visits in Banos and the Amazon, while getting close to the animals that call this diverse country home. Tick the Galapagos off your list with a sailing voyage to the best of the Southern islands for close encounters with local wildlife like iguanas, giant tortoises and exotic birds. Go snorkelling near mighty manty rays and experience the rugged landscapes of this incredible part of the world.
CruiseExplorerWildlife
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Set sail for an adventure like no other. Spend 14 days following in the wake of Captain Cook as you cross the Antarctic Circle, home to the midnight sun and towering icebergs. On board the well-appointed Ocean Nova, leave Ushuaia and civilisation behind and journey towards the hauntingly beautiful icy wilderness of the Antarctic Continent. Experience the thrill of witnessing seals lie on ice floes, whales breaching the frigid waters and penguins patrolling the rocky shoreline in vast numbers. Enjoy jaw-dropping views witnessed by seldom few as you explore ice-filled bays by Zodiac, landing on Antarctica itself for onshore excursions.
Polar expeditions and cruise
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel, Ship Cabin
Age Range
12-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Ushuaia, Antarctic Peninsula, An
Ushuaia, Antarctic Peninsula, Antarctic Circle, At Sea