LIMA to SANTIAGO (35 days) The Cordilleras

LIMA to SANTIAGO (35 days) The Cordilleras

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37 Days From

$2375

LIMA to SANTIAGO (35 days) The Cordilleras

37 Days Starting in Lima, Peru and ending in Santiago, Chile

Visiting: Bolivia, Chile, Peru

Tour operator:

Oasis Overland

Tour code:

546

Specialist Group:

Singles Solo

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 10

Physical rating:

Moderate

Tour operated in:

English

Interests:

Cultural, Wildlife Tours

Activities:

Boat/Cruise Excursion

From: $2375

NB: Prices correct on 23-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable 35-day adventure from Lima to Santiago, traversing the stunning landscapes of Peru, Bolivia, and Chile. Experience the exotic marine wildlife of the Ballestas Islands, camp under the stars in the Ica Desert, and marvel at the mysterious Nazca Lines from above. Witness majestic condors soaring over Colca Canyon and explore the ancient streets of Cusco, the Inca capital. Trek through the Sacred Valley to the iconic Machu Picchu, and sail on the world's highest navigable lake, Lake Titicaca. This journey offers a perfect blend of natural wonders, cultural immersion, and thrilling activities, making it an ideal expedition for solo travelers.

Highlights

  • A boat trip to the Ballestas Islands which are bursting with exotic and rare marine wildlife

  • Camp in the desert under the stars in the Ica Desert near the Oasis of Huacachina

  • Take a flight over the huge figures and shapes carved into the stony desert, known as the Nazca Lines

  • View the majestic condors, which can be seen circling lazily on the thermals rising from the Colca Canyon floor

  • Walk through the streets of the ancient Inca capital, it is like visiting a living museum

  • Trek through the Sacred Valley of the Incas reaching the famous UNESCO World Heritage site Machu Picchu

  • Explore Lake Titicaca by boat - the world's highest navigable lake

Itinerary

DAY 1 - 7: LIMA TO COLCA CANYON
Departing Lima our next stop is the Ballestas Islands in the Paracas National Reserve. By boat, you have the opportunity to visit the rare and exotic sea birds and mammals that inhabit these islands. An hour's drive inland in the heart of the Ica Desert is the Oasis of Huacachina; if its an adrenaline rush you're after, you have the option to head out on a custom made dune buggy & roar across the desert sands to the top of enormous dunes & then sand board down them - head first on a greased up plank of wood! Then, after an unforgettable desert sunset, we sit around the campfire while our guides cook up a storm, followed by a night sleeping out under the stars. In the morning we make our way to one of the world's great archaeological mysteries The Nazca Lines. These huge figures and shapes, carved into the desert floor are best viewed from the air - South America travel is not complete until you have seen these unbelievable ancient mysteries.

Still heading south we visit Chauchilla Cemetery with its well-preserved mummies, on our way to Puerto Inca, at this ancient Inca harbour we camp at the beach and enjoy our last night at sea level before beginning our climb back into the towering Andes. The next two nights are spent in Arequipa at 2325m, giving us time to acclimatise, and enjoy this beautiful colonial city with its impressive El Misti Volcano in the background. Arequipa is also the gateway to one of the deepest canyons in the world. Twice as deep as the Grand Canyon, Colca Canyon is an awesome sight. Here, if you get up early, Condors can be seen circling lazily on the thermals rising from the canyon floor.

DAY 8 - 14: COLCA CANYON TO CUSCO
Widely considered to be the most interesting city for South America travel, our next stop Cusco is surrounded by the Sacred Valley of the Incas and offers a wide range of activities to explore the region. We will base ourselves here for 6 days giving us enough time for the Inca Trail trip and to visit Machu Picchu, which is regarded by many to be the highlight of their South America tour. There are several treks which you can take to Machu Picchu. These are all available as Optional Add Ons which you can add to your booking. When permits are still available, we will organise the Classic Trail trek for those booking the trek option, but great alternative Inca Trail treks, like the Lares or Salkantay can be arranged when the Classic is not available or by your choice (must be pre-arranged at time of booking). These alternatives mean that you still get to visit Machu Picchu. If you do not want to trek, then you can remain in Cusco for a couple more free days, and then we offer an option to visit Machu Picchu by train instead. This must also be booked and paid for in advance. Tours to Machu Picchu are absolutely unbelievable; a trip to this City in the Clouds is an ancient and awe-inspiring part of our South America travel tour. Besides seeing Machu Picchu, you are able to enjoy the architectural uniqueness of Cusco and explore some of the colourful surrounding markets. Please note that for all those visiting Machu Picchu there is now the option to buy a ticket to go up the summit next to Machu Picchu, Huayna Picchu. Tickets for this must be requested at the time of your booking with us, and payment made in advance in the UK.

DAY 15 - 19: CUSCO TO LA PAZ
Bordering Peru and Bolivia at 3800m lies Lake Titicaca, the home of the Uros Indians who have made their dwellings on floating reed islands. By boat we visit the floating islands during the day and then we go that one step beyond the average tourist and spend the night with one of the Indian families on the lesser known islands Isla Amantani or Taquile. Spending some time during South America travel in these local communities will provide a unique opportunity to learn more about the traditional lifestyle of the Andean people and their customs. From here it is a days drive to the capital of Bolivia - La Paz. This is a great place to visit a 'peña' club, dedicated to Andean folk music, and perhaps buy some souvenirs in one of the authentic markets such as the witches market.

DAY 20 - 25: LA PAZ TO UYUNI
Leaving La Paz we enter real Bolivia, where the Aymara and Quechua Indians scrape a living from their small plots of land in the harsh climate and paved roads are virtually non-existent. A days drive brings us to Potosi. At over 4000m it is the highest city of its size in the world and 400 years ago it was the largest city in all the Americas. Vast amounts of silver were extracted from Potosi and shipped to Spain in years gone by. The adventurous who have undertaken South American travel will appreciate the opportunity to go down one of these mines where mining techniques have remained unchanged for centuries. Visiting the ancient mint or having a tour around the Casa Nacional de Moneda (National Money House) also provides a good look into Potosi's and Bolivia's past. Leaving the bleak Altiplano we arrive at the shimmering white Salt Flats of Uyuni.

DAY 26 - 29: UYUNI TO SALTA
It is possible to venture out into the salt lakes for a 1 day excursion. With no roads and only vague tracks to follow it makes for an unforgettable experience. Our descent through the Andean passes is spectacular as we cross into Argentina towards the colonial city of Salta where we have a couple of free days.

DAY 30 - 35: SALTA TO SANTIAGO
After Salta, we head south winding around lakes and weaving through baked cliffs until we reach Cafayate, the first wine region of Argentina. Famous for its white wines, you can explore some of the wineries on foot or by bicycle. Continuing south we join the route 40, the longest route in Argentina, to Mendoza, the biggest wine region in Argentina. Here you can indulge in more wine and good steak! From here we head for Chile as we cross the Andes past the Inca Bridge and San Martin's pass and into the modern capital, Santiago.

Note: In 2025 this trip will be extended to 39 days.

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    Accommodation is provided with approximately 50% camping and 50% simple hostels/hotels.

  • Boat Tour on Lake Titicaca

    A boat tour on Lake Titicaca is included.

  • Overnight Stay with Local Family

    An overnight stay with a local family on Lake Titicaca is included.

  • Meals

    Approximately 50% of meals are included.

  • Transport

    All transport on the Oasis Expedition Truck is included.

  • Camping and Cooking Equipment

    Camping and cooking equipment are provided.

  • Services of Oasis Crew

    Services of the Oasis Crew are included.

What's Not Included

  • Local Payment

    A local payment of USD 1350 per person is payable at the start of the trip.

  • Visas

    Visas are not included.

  • Optional Excursions

    Optional excursions as listed in the Pre-Departure Information are not included.

  • Inca Trail Trek & Machu Picchu Add-ons

    Inca Trail trek and Machu Picchu add-ons are not included.

  • Flights

    Flights are not included.

  • Airport Taxes & Transfers

    Airport taxes and transfers are not included.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included.

  • Meals

    Approximately 50% of meals are not included.

  • Drinks

    Drinks are not included.

  • Tips

    Tips are not included.

Mode of Transport

All transport is provided on an Oasis Expedition Truck, ensuring a comfortable and adventurous journey through the diverse landscapes.

Accommodation

Accommodation is approximately 50% camping and 50% simple hostels/hotels, including an overnight stay with a local family on Lake Titicaca.

Check out our Q&As

  • What kind of accommodation can I expect during the tour?

    The accommodation is approximately 50% camping and 50% simple hostels or hotels.

  • Will I have the opportunity to interact with local communities?

    Yes, you will have an overnight stay with a local family on Lake Titicaca, providing a unique opportunity to learn more about the traditional lifestyle of the Andean people and their customs.

  • What kind of transport will be used during the tour?

    All transport will be provided on an Oasis Expedition Truck.

  • Are meals included in the tour package?

    Meals are included for approximately 50% of the tour.

  • What kind of activities are included in the tour?

    Included activities are a boat tour on Lake Titicaca, camping in the Ica Desert, and visiting the Ballestas Islands, among others.

  • Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?

    Yes, there is a local payment of USD 1350 per person payable at the start of the trip. Other additional costs include visas, optional excursions, Inca Trail trek and Machu Picchu add-ons, flights, airport taxes and transfers, travel insurance, meals for approximately 50% of the tour, drinks, and tips.

  • Is there an option to visit Machu Picchu if I do not want to trek?

    Yes, if you do not want to trek, you can remain in Cusco for a couple more free days, and then there is an option to visit Machu Picchu by train, which must be booked and paid for in advance.

  • What is the highlight of the tour for many travelers?

    Many travelers regard visiting Machu Picchu as the highlight of their South America tour.

  • Will I have the chance to see the Nazca Lines?

    Yes, you will have the opportunity to take a flight over the huge figures and shapes carved into the stony desert, known as the Nazca Lines.

  • What kind of wildlife can I expect to see on the tour?

    You will visit the Ballestas Islands, which are bursting with exotic and rare marine wildlife, and you may also see majestic condors circling lazily on the thermals rising from the Colca Canyon floor.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Yes, if you are travelling solo. On our Overland Adventures and Ultimate Expeditions, we will pair you up with a tent buddy of the same sex when we camp and the same goes for twin & shared rooms in hostels, so there is no need to go it alone! If you specifically would like to request your own single room whilst on the trip, this may be requested subject to availability and additional fee.

  • How many people do you take on your Trips?

    On most of our Overland Adventures and Ultimate Expeditions our vehicles can carry a maximum of 24 travellers, the average however is around 16-20 on any one trip. Our Small Group Adventures have a maximum of 18 people per Tour Leader, although again the average is around 10-14 people.

Reviews of this operator

Giles  

LIMA to RIO (87 days) Kingdoms & Carnivals

31-Jan-2020

Life changing, exhilarating, wonderful, at times tough and challenging.

Lucy Jenner (Google Reviewer)  

I can't recommend Oasis enough....

07-Nov-2022

I can't recommend Oasis enough. I have done two trips with them to Africa (Victoria Falls to Cape Town in 2013 and Nairobi to Vic Falls in 2017). The first trip was my first real travelling experience so I picked a shorter one but it just meant I had to go back for more a few years later because I loved it so much. The trips were well organised and went to amazing places with a good mix of structure and freedom, and it never felt like we were rushed even though a lot was packed into the time. The tour leader and driver looked after us well. I was lucky that the groups I was with were great too, because that can have such an impact.

Ivano Forte (Google Reviewer)  

We have been on 2...

31-Oct-2022

We have been on 2 trips with Oasis through Africa. Both trips were fantastic!! The whole experience from initial booking and lead up communication, to the trip itself, with the wonderfully knowledgeable, hard working, friendly and fun crew, to all the amazing places we visited, things we saw and adventures we had, it was all a truly amazing experience!! Highly recommend Oasis Overland.

Brenda  

SANTIAGO to BUENOS AIRES (31 days) Patagonian Adventures

15-Dec-2019

At 78 years old it has been one of the highlights of my life! The crew were 1st class and the rest of the travellers really looked after me. Highlights were Bariloche and Patagonia

Keera Lambert (Google Reviewer)  

I did the Trans Africa...

28-Oct-2022

I did the Trans Africa with Oasis Overland in 2013/2014 and it was fantastic. The company dealt with issues that arose over the 10month trip quickly and competently. My best travel memories and experiences came from this trip, I wouldn't hesitate to recommend it.

Roy Smith (Google Reviewer)  

I've been on 3 trips...

28-Oct-2022

I've been on 3 trips with Oasis, the Silk Road and 2 in Africa, about 33 weeks in total, and planning on another now that covid restrictions aren't preventing it. I find the trips are organized so that you get to see the highlights along those routes, and you're travelling with people a mix of nationality and age so a solo traveler like me isn't alone. These trips are great value, would not have had such a terrific range of experiences otherwise.

Laura  

NAIROBI to HARARE (41 days) Apes & Lakes

30-Jun-2020

Really loved this trip. The pre-trip information was great and Katie really went out of her way to help me. I though that camping for so long would start to get tiring but it really didn't plus there were plenty of opportunities to upgrade and some of the time this was very cheap. So many amazing things to see and do. Seeing the Gorillas in the wild was a highlight for me! Would highly recommend and hope to do another trip in the future.

Laurence Zerafa (Google Reviewer)  

If you like adventure travel,...

31-Oct-2022

If you like adventure travel, daily camping with the odd brick and mortar accommodation, moving daily from one place to another often off the beaten track, getting as close as possible to locals, in the company of like-minded fellow travelers, and at reasonable prices, then this is the travel company for you.

Michael Miranda (Google Reviewer)  

I highly recommend traveling with...

02-Feb-2023

I highly recommend traveling with Oasis Overland. I did a 75 day trip through Africa with them in 2017 and I had an amazing time. From Victoria Falls, the Serengeti, and Great Zimbabwe, I got to see so many once-in-a-lifetime places in a much shorter time period than I would have been able to navigate on my own. The guide and driver were great and I always felt like all situations were handled well as things came up (like there was coup in Zimbabwe while we were there). The bus was comfortable enough and it was very conducive to socializing with other travelers. The group I traveled with was a good mix of nationalities and ages so everyone could find people to hang out with. I think Oasis does a good job of providing a mix of planned activities and free time and offers a good selection of excursions in the places we stopped.

Dino  

CAPE TOWN to JOHANNESBURG (17 days) South Africa & Lesotho

19-Dec-2019

Awesome adventure, White water rafting, sleeping amidst elephants, game drives, adrenaline hits, great company what more could you ask for!

1 Select your preferred date

Tuesday - Wednesday

Dec 03, 2024 - Jan 08, 2025
$2375

Sunday - Monday

Nov 09, 2025 - Dec 15, 2025
$2500

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Oasis Overland requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of oasis overland charges.

    Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 69 days before tour starts: Forfeit 33% of booking price.

    At 45 days before tour starts: Forfeit 70% of booking price.

    At 27 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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