Days 1–3 · Lima
Arrive via Santiago, then Miraflores, the historic centre and a ceviche food walk in the world's culinary capital.
South America travel guide
South America Holiday Packages from Australia
South America is the great long-haul adventure from Australia: direct flights across the Pacific to Santiago, then a continent of Inca citadels, Andean markets, Patagonian glaciers and Amazon rainforest. A first trip usually centres on Peru — Lima's food scene, the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. This guide covers a proven itinerary, what a trip actually costs, entry requirements for Australian passport holders and when to travel. Our Sydney consultants then tailor it around your dates, pace and budget.
A classic 12-day Peru itinerary
Lima, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu and Cusco, paced gently for altitude. It runs as a private trip on your own dates or extended with the Galápagos, Lake Titicaca or Patagonia.
Days 4–5 · Sacred Valley
Fly to Cusco and descend to the valley: Pisac market, Ollantaytambo fortress and a salt-terraces visit at Maras.
Day 6 · Machu Picchu
Panoramic train to Aguas Calientes, then an afternoon guided visit of the citadel.
Day 7 · Machu Picchu & Cusco
Optional sunrise return or Huayna Picchu hike, then the train back to Cusco.
Days 8–10 · Cusco
Inca walls and Spanish plazas, Sacsayhuamán, San Pedro market and a free day to acclimatise and wander.
Days 11–12 · Departure
Fly via Lima and Santiago for the overnight flight home across the Pacific.
More ideas on the Explore the World page.
What this holiday costs
Return flights Sydney–Lima via Santiago
From around $1,600 economy, $2,300+ in peak seasons
12-day private package (land only)
From $4,200 per person, twin share
Hotels, 4-star
Roughly $120–$220 per room per night
Machu Picchu entry and train
Around $250–$350 per person, booked well ahead
Meals and daily spending
Allow $50–$100 per person per day
All figures are indicative guides in Australian dollars for planning only. Final pricing depends on your travel dates, airline, hotel category, group size, exchange rates and availability at the time of booking, and is confirmed in writing before you pay.
Best time to travel
May to October · Dry season
The best months for Machu Picchu and the Andes: clear days, cold nights. June to August is busiest — book permits and trains early.
November to April · Wet season
Afternoon showers in the Andes, greener landscapes and lower prices. The Inca Trail closes each February for maintenance.
Patagonia · November to March
Southern summer is the season for Torres del Paine and the glaciers, opposite to the Australian calendar.
Galápagos · Year round
Wildlife is active all year; December to May brings warmer seas for snorkelling.
Seasonal dates shift each year with the weather; we track the forecasts and advise on departure dates before you commit.
Visa and entry tips
- Australian passport holders currently enter Peru, Chile and Argentina for tourism without a visa for stays of up to 90 days.
- Brazil requires Australian passport holders to arrange an e-visa online before departure.
- Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your stay.
- Altitude affects most travellers above 2,500 metres — we pace itineraries gently and suggest a chat with your doctor before you book.
Entry rules can change at short notice. Always confirm current requirements with the relevant embassy or consulate and with Smartraveller before you travel. We assist with documentation but cannot guarantee entry decisions.
Ready to plan your South America holiday?
Tell us your dates, travellers and whether Peru is the focus or part of a bigger loop. Our Sydney consultants build the itinerary, price the flights and trains, and secure Machu Picchu permits for your dates.