Over two incredible weeks, I travelled through Peru, Bolivia, Argentina and Brazil, and it’s honestly one of the most unforgettable journeys I’ve ever taken. Every day felt completely different, from ancient ruins and high-altitude lakes to vibrant cities and natural wonders that didn’t quite feel real.
This trip was arranged with Cox & Kings, and everything ran seamlessly, which meant I could properly switch off and just take it all in.
From Lima to the Andes
My journey started in Lima, and it didn’t take long to fall in love with Peru. One of my first memories is sipping a Pisco Sour in a small local bar, such a simple moment, but it really felt like the start of something special.
From there, we headed into the Sacred Valley and gradually made our way higher into the Andes. The itinerary was designed so you acclimatise as you go, which makes such a difference when you’re travelling at altitude.
And then came Machu Picchu.
I’d seen the photos, like everyone has, but nothing prepares you for actually standing there. The mist, the mountains, the scale of it all. It’s one of those places that just stops you in your tracks.
Life at 3,500 Metres
One of the most memorable parts of the trip was the journey from Cuzco to Puno. It was a long train ride, around ten hours, but I didn’t want it to end. The scenery constantly changed, from snow-capped peaks to tiny villages where life feels completely untouched by time.
Lake Titicaca was another highlight. It has this calm, almost surreal feeling about it. We visited the floating reed islands of the Uros people, and it was fascinating to see how they live, completely connected to the lake. That evening, we did some stargazing at an observatory, and with no light pollution, the sky was just incredible.
La Paz and Beyond
Arriving in La Paz felt like stepping into another world. It’s chaotic, colourful and completely unique. One of the best ways to see it is from above on the cable car system, Mi Teleférico. Floating over the city with the Andes all around you is something I’ll never forget.
Then came a complete change of pace.
Buenos Aires was full of energy. Walking through La Boca, with its brightly coloured buildings and tango dancers performing in the streets, felt like being in a film. There’s music everywhere, and such a strong sense of culture and passion.
The Power of Iguazu Falls
If I had to pick one moment that truly took my breath away, it might be Iguazu Falls.
You can hear them before you see them. And when you do, it’s just incredible. The sheer power, the noise, the scale. We even took a boat right underneath the falls, which was as wild as it sounds, completely soaked but absolutely worth it.
Ending in Rio
Finishing the trip in Rio de Janeiro felt like the perfect ending.
From standing beneath Christ the Redeemer to taking in the views from Sugarloaf Mountain, every viewpoint felt iconic. And then there are the beaches, Copacabana and Ipanema, where life just seems to slow down a little.
There’s a real energy to Rio. It’s vibrant, relaxed and full of life all at once.
The Little Things That Made It Special
What made this trip even more memorable was how easy it all felt. All the logistics were taken care of, which meant I could just enjoy every moment without worrying about what came next.
We also travelled as a group, and that added something really special. Sharing experiences like this with like-minded people, swapping stories at the end of the day, it all becomes part of the journey.
Would I Recommend It?
Without hesitation.
South America is one of the most diverse, exciting and emotional places I’ve ever travelled to. Every country felt completely different, yet they all connected in a way that made the whole journey flow beautifully.
If you’re looking for a trip that’s more than just a holiday, something that really stays with you, this is it.
And if you’re thinking about doing something like this, I’d love to help you plan it.