Ultimate South America and Costa Rica Adventure: Lima, Cusco, Machu Picchu, San José & Beyond

Day 1: Arrival & Travel

Lima, Peru on May 17, 2025

1:35AM

Flight from Delhi to London

Depart from Delhi early morning with British Airways flight AA6662, lasting approximately 9 hours 35 minutes.
Included in airfare, 9h35m

6:40AM

Layover in London Heathrow

Enjoy a 3 hour 15 minute layover at London Heathrow Terminal 5 where you can refresh, grab a snack, or shop.
Varies, 3h15m

9:55AM

Flight from London to Miami

Board the transatlantic flight to Miami lasting 9 hours 35 minutes.
Included in airfare, 9h35m

2:30PM

Layover in Miami

Brief stopover with approximately 3 hours to stretch and refresh before next flight.
Varies, 3h20m

5:50PM

Flight from Miami to Lima

Depart Miami for your final flight to Lima, Peru, arriving late evening.
Included in airfare, 4h35m

10:25PM

Arrival in Lima - Transfer to 3B Barranco by Katari Hoteles

Check in and rest after a long travel day at this comfortable hotel in the artistic Barranco district.
Hotel cost varies, Rest
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Lima Exploration

Lima, Peru on May 18, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at La Bodega Verde

Enjoy a fresh, Peruvian-inspired breakfast at this charming local spot in Barranco, known for organic dishes.
PEN 30, 1h

9:30AM

Huaca Pucllana Pyramid

Visit this impressive pre-Incan adobe pyramid and archaeological site in the heart of Miraflores, open 9AM-5PM. Learn about ancient cultures that once inhabited Lima.
PEN 15, 1h30m

11:15AM

Lima Cathedral and Main Square

Explore the colonial Plaza Mayor, visit the ornate Lima Cathedral and nearby Government Palace, open from 9AM-5PM. Appreciate Lima's rich colonial history.
Free entry, 1h30m

1:00PM

Lunch at El Señorial

Taste traditional Peruvian cuisine in a historic setting close to the square, specializing in ceviche and other seafood dishes.
PEN 50, 1h

2:30PM

Convent of San Francisco

Tour this iconic colonial convent with its catacombs open 9AM-5PM. Renowned for its baroque architecture and religious art collections.
PEN 15, 1h

4:00PM

Walking in Miraflores & Love Park

Stroll the famous clifftop Malecón through Miraflores, visiting Love Park to see its notable sculpture and Pacific Ocean views, perfect at sunset.
Free, 1h30m

7:00PM

Dinner at Central Restaurante

Dine at one of Latin America's top restaurants, offering innovative dishes based on native Peruvian ingredients (reservations recommended). Open until 11PM.
PEN 200+, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Sacred Valley & Travel

Cusco, Peru on May 19, 2025

6:55AM

Flight from Lima to Cusco

Depart early morning on a short 1h 20 min flight arriving at Cusco Airport, gateway to the Sacred Valley.
USD 50-100, 1h20m

8:15AM

Arrival and Transfer to Sacred Valley Hotel Taypikala Machupicchu

Check-in and relax briefly at your hotel located in the Sacred Valley area, preparing for afternoon excursions.
Hotel cost varies, 1h

10:00AM

Visit Maras Salt Ponds

Explore the stunning salt evaporation ponds used since Incan times, located close to Sacred Valley, open during daylight hours. A brilliant spot for unique photos.
PEN 10, 1h

11:30AM

Tour Moray Agricultural Terraces

Visit this fascinating Incan site with circular agricultural terraces believed to be an ancient laboratory for crops, open 7AM-5PM.
PEN 10, 1h

12:45PM

Lunch at El Albergue Restaurant

Dine on traditional Andean dishes in a rustic setting near Ollantaytambo, known for farm-to-table freshness.
PEN 45, 1h

2:00PM

Visit Ollantaytambo Fortress and Pinkuylluna

Explore the well-preserved Incan fortress and ascend to Pinkuylluna ruins for panoramic valley views, open until 5PM.
PEN 70, 2h

6:00PM

Train to Aguas Calientes

Board the evening train at Ollantaytambo station to Aguas Calientes (near Machu Picchu), arriving around 7:45PM. Check into Hotel Taypikala Machupicchu.
USD 60-90, 1h45m

8:30PM

Dinner at Indio Feliz

Enjoy a cozy dinner in Aguas Calientes with delicious local cuisine and international options, open until 10PM.
PEN 50, 1h
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Machu Picchu Visit

Machu Picchu & Cusco, Peru on May 20, 2025

5:30AM

Early Bus to Machu Picchu

Take an early bus (5:30-6:00AM) from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu to enter the site at opening (6AM). Beat the crowds and witness sunrise over the citadel.
USD 14 (bus round trip), USD 70 (entry), 30m bus + 4h tour

10:30AM

Explore Machu Picchu

Discover the ancient citadel's temples, terraces, and plazas with a guided or self-guided tour, gaining insight into Incan civilization and stunning mountain scenery.
Included in entry, 4h

12:30PM

Lunch at Tinkuy Buffet Restaurant

Return to Aguas Calientes town for a hearty buffet lunch featuring locally sourced ingredients, perfect after your exploration.
PEN 35, 1h

2:00PM

Train return Ollantaytambo & Travel to Cusco

Take the afternoon train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo, then drive or taxi onward to Cusco for evening arrival.
USD 60-90, 3h total

6:30PM

Check-In & Rest at Hotel Apartment INKASABIOS

Settle into your comfortable Cusco accommodation and relax after a full day of adventure.
Hotel cost varies, Rest

8:00PM

Dinner at MAP Café

Savor contemporary Peruvian cuisine at this acclaimed fine dining spot in the Cusco Art Museum, open until 10PM (reservations recommended).
PEN 80+, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Cusco City Tour

Cusco, Peru on May 21, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café D´Paq

Start your day with fresh Peruvian coffee and pastries at this popular local café in the city center.
PEN 20, 45m

9:00AM

Visit Plaza de Armas & Cusco Cathedral

Explore Cusco's bustling main square and the magnificent Cusco Cathedral, open from 9AM to 5PM, showcasing Colonial art and history.
PEN 40, 1h30m

10:45AM

Temple of Qoricancha (Sun Temple)

Discover the former Incan temple's remarkable stonework blended with Spanish colonial architecture, open 9AM-6PM.
PEN 15, 1h

12:00PM

Lunch at Pachapapa

Enjoy traditional Andean fare in a charming San Blas neighborhood courtyard, specializing in roasted cuy and alpaca dishes.
PEN 50, 1h

1:30PM

Visit Mercado Central de San Pedro

Browse local markets selling fresh produce, crafts, and souvenirs. A great spot to try local snacks and interact with vendors.
Free, 1h

2:45PM

Tour Saqsaywaman & Surrounding Ruins

Explore this spectacular Incan fortress fortress site with massive terraces and walls, plus nearby Qenqo and Tambomachay archeological sites, open until 4PM.
PEN 70, 2h

5:00PM

Visit Twelve Angled Stone & San Blas

See the famous Incan twelve-angled stone in a city wall and stroll Cusco’s artistic San Blas district.
Free, 45m

7:00PM

Dinner at Morena Peruvian Kitchen

Savor modern fusion Peruvian dishes and creative cocktails near Plaza de Armas in a lively atmosphere.
PEN 60, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Rainbow Mountain Trek

Cusco, Peru on May 22, 2025

5:00AM

Rainbow Mountain Trek by Mule

Begin an early morning guided trek or mule ride through the Andes to Rainbow Mountain, famous for its breathtaking colorful strata. Prepare for a full-day excursion (exiting Cusco circa 4PM).
USD 60-90 (tour), 10h

7:30PM

Return & Dinner at Papacho's

Wrap up your day with gourmet burgers and Peruvian flavors in a vibrant Cusco restaurant open until 10PM.
PEN 45, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Travel & Costa Rica Arrival

San José, Costa Rica on May 23, 2025

7:35AM

Flight Cusco to Lima

Early departure from Cusco to Lima with arrival by mid-morning.
USD 50-100, 1h30m

12:40PM

Flight Lima to San José, Costa Rica

Continue your journey flying from Lima to San José, arriving mid-afternoon.
USD 150-250, 4h55m

3:30PM

Collect rental car & Drive to La Fortuna (Arenal Volcano)

After arrival, pick up your rental vehicle and enjoy the scenic 3-hour drive to La Fortuna, a town at the base of Arenal Volcano.
Rental varies, 3h

6:30PM

Check-in & relax at hotel near Arenal Volcano

Check into your hotel with volcano views, perfect for unwinding after travel.
Hotel varies, Rest

7:30PM

Dinner at Restaurante Don Rufino

Dine on authentic Costa Rican dishes such as casado or fresh seafood in a popular, friendly atmosphere in La Fortuna town.
USD 20-30, 1h
View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Arenal Volcano Adventure

Arenal, Costa Rica on May 24, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at hotel

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel.
Included, 45m

8:00AM

Hike Arenal Volcano National Park

Explore various trails through rainforest and lava fields with abundant wildlife; park is open 8AM-5PM.
USD 15, 3h

12:00PM

Lunch at Soda Viquez

Enjoy casual Costa Rican lunch with specialties like gallo pinto and fresh juices.
USD 10, 1h

1:30PM

Ziplining or Hanging Bridges Tour

Choose between ziplining through the canopy or walking hanging bridges for spectacular rainforest views; open until 4PM.
USD 50-60, 3h

5:00PM

Relax at Tabacón Hot Springs

Soak in natural thermal pools heated by the volcano, open until 10PM; a perfect way to unwind.
USD 40, 2h

8:00PM

Dinner at Lava Lounge

Dine near the springs with international and Costa Rican fusion dishes in a laid-back outdoor setting.
USD 25-35, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 9: Manuel Antonio Travel

Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica on May 25, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast & check out

Enjoy breakfast and prepare for day’s drive to Manuel Antonio on the Pacific coast.
Included, 1h

8:30AM

Drive from La Fortuna to Manuel Antonio

Approximately 4-5 hours scenic drive; recommended to depart early to avoid afternoon traffic.
Rental, 5h

1:30PM

Check into hotel and lunch at El Avion

Check in at hotel or beach resort then enjoy lunch at El Avion, offering stunning coastline views and fresh seafood.
USD 20-30, 1h

3:00PM

Relax at Manuel Antonio Beach

Spend a leisurely afternoon relaxing on the sandy beach with gentle waves and lush tropical surroundings.
Free, 2h

6:00PM

Explore town & dinner at Café Milagro

Stroll Manuel Antonio's vibrant town center then savor fresh seafood and local dishes at Café Milagro, open till 10PM.
USD 25, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 10: Manuel Antonio Park & Return

San José, Costa Rica on May 26, 2025

6:30AM

Early Visit to Manuel Antonio National Park

Beat crowds by arriving early to see wildlife like sloths and monkeys on scenic forest trails; park is open 7AM-4PM.
USD 18, 3h

10:00AM

Beach & Swimming

Relax at Playa Espadilla Sur inside the park, enjoy swimming or sunbathing.
Free, 2h

12:00PM

Lunch at Soda Sanchez

Grab a casual and authentic Costa Rican lunch before departure.
USD 10, 1h

1:00PM

Drive back to San José

Return drive approximately 3 hours to San José for evening arrival.
Rental, 3h

5:00PM

Explore San José or visit National Museum

If time permits, visit San José National Museum (open 9AM-5PM) or stroll Central Avenue before dinner.
USD 12, 1h

7:00PM

Dinner at Restaurante Grano de Oro

Enjoy refined Costa Rican-European cuisine in an elegant setting before preparing for onward travel.
USD 40-50, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 11: Travel to Mexico City

Mexico City, Mexico on May 27, 2025

7:46AM

Flight San José to Mexico City

Depart early from San José International Airport for your arrival in Mexico City mid-morning.
USD 100-150, 3h30m

11:10AM

Arrival & transfer to hotel

Check into your Mexico City hotel and prepare to explore the vibrant capital.
Hotel varies, Rest

1:00PM

Lunch at El Cardenal

Savor authentic Mexican cuisine known for traditional mole and fresh tortillas.
MXN 200-300, 1h

2:30PM

Visit Museo Frida Kahlo (Casa Azul)

Tour the former home of artist Frida Kahlo in Coyoacán, open 10AM-5:45PM except Mondays.
MXN 250, 2h

5:00PM

Explore Coyoacán Plaza

Wander through the charming colonial square, enjoying shops, cafés, and street performances.
Free, 1h

7:00PM

Dinner at Pujol

Dine at one of Mexico City's world-renowned restaurants serving innovative Mexican cuisine (reservations essential).
MXN 1800+, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 12: Mexico City Exploration

Mexico City, Mexico on May 28, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Lalo!

Enjoy casual and trendy breakfast with local flavors and fresh coffee.
MXN 150, 1h

9:30AM

Visit Zócalo & Metropolitan Cathedral

Explore Mexico City's historic central square and the largest cathedral in the Americas, open 8AM-8PM.
Free, 1h30m

11:00AM

National Museum of Anthropology

Discover Mexico’s rich indigenous history and culture in this world-class museum open from 9AM-7PM.
MXN 85, 3h

2:30PM

Lunch at El Huequito

Sample authentic tacos al pastor from a traditional and beloved local spot, open till late afternoon.
MXN 100, 1h

4:00PM

Stroll in Chapultepec Park

Enjoy the green expanse of one of the largest city parks, including visiting Chapultepec Castle (open 9AM-5PM).
MXN 85 Castle entry, 2h

7:00PM

Dinner at Contramar

Experience fresh seafood and vibrant atmosphere at one of the city's top dining spots in Roma Norte.
MXN 400, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 13: San Miguel de Allende

San Miguel de Allende, Mexico on May 29, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast & Drive to San Miguel de Allende

After breakfast, take a scenic 3-hour drive from Mexico City to the cultural town of San Miguel de Allende.
Rental / Transport, 3h

11:00AM

Visit Museo Histórico Casa de Allende

Explore this museum dedicated to the town’s independence hero Ignacio Allende, open 10AM-5PM.
MXN 40, 1h

12:15PM

Lunch at Lavanda Café

Enjoy lavender-themed dishes and beverages in a quaint café with artisanal touches.
MXN 150, 1h

1:30PM

Tour Fabrica La Aurora

Visit this restored textile factory turned art and design center featuring galleries, shops, and studios, open 10AM-6PM.
Free, 2h

4:00PM

Visit Museo de Arte / City Museum

Discover Mexican art from various periods in this local cultural museum.
MXN 60, 1h30m

6:00PM

Dinner at Jacinto 1930

Dine on contemporary Mexican cuisine with a rooftop ambiance in downtown San Miguel.
MXN 300, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 14: More San Miguel & El Mirador

San Miguel de Allende, Mexico on May 30, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at Café Rama

Start with a trendy breakfast offering fresh baked goods and gourmet coffee.
MXN 120, 1h

9:00AM

El Mirador Viewpoint

Walk or drive to this iconic high vantage point offering panoramic views of the colorful town and surrounding valley. Best in the morning light.
Free, 1h

10:30AM

Centro Cultural Ignacio Ramírez El Nigromante

Tour this historic cultural center with art exhibits and local craft markets, open generally 9AM-5PM.
Free, 1h30m

12:00PM

Lunch at The Restaurant

Enjoy a solid menu of Mexican-European fusion dishes in a cozy environment.
MXN 250, 1h

1:30PM

Visit Museo del Juguete Popular Mexicano

Explore this quirky museum dedicated to Mexican folk toys, fun and colorful for all ages, open till 5PM.
MXN 50, 1h

3:00PM

Relax & Shopping

Stroll downtown, enjoy artisan shops, and relax in a café or plaza.
Free, 2h

7:00PM

Dinner at Aperi

Experience fine dining with innovative cuisine at one of the town’s renowned eateries.
MXN 450, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 15: Travel to Cancun

Cancun, Mexico on May 31, 2025

7:30AM

Drive from San Miguel de Allende to Leon, Bajio Airport

Depart early for the approximately 3-hour drive to Leon for your flight to Cancun.
Rental, 3h

10:15AM

Flight Leon to Cancun

Fly direct to Cancun, gateway to the Riviera Maya and famous beaches.
USD 50-100, 2h30m

1:45PM

Arrival & transfer to hotel

Check into your Cancun hotel and relax after travel.
Hotel varies, Rest

3:00PM

Explore Hotel Zone Beach

Spend the afternoon enjoying Cancun’s white sandy beaches and turquoise waters.
Free, 2h

7:00PM

Dinner at Lorenzillo's

Dine on fresh seafood including lobster with views of the lagoon, open until 10PM.
USD 40-60, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 16: Chichen Itza Day Trip

Cancun, Mexico on June 1, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast & Departure for Chichen Itza

Early breakfast followed by approximately 2.5-hour drive or tour to the famous Mayan ruins.
USD 15-20 (entry), USD 70-100 (tour), 7h total trip

9:30AM

Tour Chichen Itza Archaeological Site

Explore one of the New Seven Wonders of the World with a knowledgeable guide, open 8AM-5PM.
Included above, 3h

12:30PM

Lunch at Hacienda Chichen

Enjoy buffet style Yucatecan cuisine in a historic hacienda near the site.
USD 25, 1h30m

2:00PM

Return to Cancun & Relax

Drive back to Cancun for an afternoon of rest or beach time.
Included in tour, 3h

7:30PM

Dinner at La Habichuela

Dine at an elegant Cancun restaurant famous for Mayan-themed décor and seafood dishes.
USD 40, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 17: Departure Day

Cancun, Mexico on June 2, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast & Morning Relaxation

Enjoy your last morning in Cancun with a leisurely breakfast and beach time.
Included, 1h30m

10:00AM

Check out & Transfer to Cancun Airport

Prepare for your afternoon flight to Philadelphia with ample time for airport processes.
Transport varies, 2h

12:39PM

Flight Cancun to Philadelphia

International flight lasting approx. 4h 45m to Philadelphia, landing early evening.
USD 200-350, 4h45m

5:24PM

Arrival Philadelphia & Overnight

Upon arrival, consider overnight stay if connecting flights leave next day, or proceed with onward travel to London.
Hotel varies, Rest
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