Overlanding Latin America

Cuzco, Peru - Vivien De Greef
Cuzco, Peru - Nicole Caton
Overlanding Latin America
Create your own Latin American adventure from our wide range of Overland route combinations. With all the big
show-stoppers and plenty of hidden gems to discover in-between, there’s bound to be a trip that takes in everything
you want to see. In fact, it’s probably going to be a harder task trying to pick what you don’t want to see…
Participatory travel
Dragoman trucks
Given the nature of the regions we head to on our Overland trips,
and given that this is Latin America after all, creature comforts aren’t
always readily at hand. Depending on the trip route and travel season,
there’s likely to be a fair bit of camping involved to get to where we’re
going. So if roughing it on occasion really isn’t your thing, this might
not be the best option for you. You’ll need to be prepared for some
long driving days, to put up your own tent (though we’ll always be
there to lend a hand) and to help out with cooking and cleaning
duties. However, don’t be too deterred by these home truths, as for
most of our travellers these Overland experiences are what make
our trips so memorable. At the end you’ll have seen some seriously
remote corners of the earth, captured an incredible vault of memories
and met a whole bunch of new friends from right across the globe.
After all, isn’t that what travel is all about?
Most of our Overland trips in Latin America are operated by our partners,
Dragoman. Having been in the Overland travel game for over 30 years,
they have the nous, know-how and, most importantly, a fleet of purposebuilt vehicles to get you from A to B, both safely and on time.
Flexible itineraries
Rugged road warriors though these trucks may be, routes may
sometimes need to change. Just as it is at home, if a road is closed off for
reconstruction, there might not be a whole lot we can do other than work
out a new route to get to our destination. By the same token, not needing
to rely on public transport can be a huge advantage in places like strikeprone Bolivia – and does in fact offer an element of creative license. Your
trip leader may recommend a scenic route, short cut or detour to a secret
attraction, and if everyone’s in agreement, well, why not?
In a similar vein, if you don’t see the particular route you were after on
this map, check out the Dragoman website: dragoman.com. They could
already be on to it.
Overland trips
GDOG
La Paz to Buenos Aires
21 days
QDOYC
Mexico City to Panama City
55 days
GDOP
Lima to Cuzco
17 days (GDOB reverse)
GDOI
Santiago to Ushuaia
23 days (GDOJ reverse)
GDOW
Cartagena to Quito
19 days (GDOQ reverse)
GDOL
Cuzco to La Paz
12 days (GDOO reverse)
GDOY
Rio to Cuzco
28 days
GDOA
Quito to Lima
20 days (GDON reverse)
GDOK
Buenos Aires to Rio
19 days (GDOM reverse)
GDOC
La Paz to Santiago
21 days (GDOF reverse)
SDOA
Anchorage to Mexico City
52 days
GDOD
Santiago to Buenos Aires
34 days (GDOE reverse)
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MEXICO
Mexico City
GUATEMALA
COSTA RICA
Panama City
Cartagena
NICARAGUA
PANAMA
COLOMBIA
Quito
ECUADOR
PERU
BRAZIL
Lima
Cuzco
La Paz
BOLIVIA
Anchorage
Rio de Janeiro
CANADA
USA
Santiago
Buenos Aires
URUGUAY
ARGENTINA
CHILE
MEXICO
Mexico City
Ushuaia
Overland Combos
GDVYC Brazilian Amazon to Lima
44 days, Rio to Lima via Central Brazil
GDOKC Lima to La Paz
22 days, Lima to La Paz (GDOMC reverse)
GDOBC Lima to Buenos Aires
42 days, Lima to Buenos Aires
GDBMC Ushuaia to Lima
64 days, Ushuaia to Lima (GDBLC reverse)
GDONC Quito to La Paz
41 days, Quito to La Paz
GDOTC Lima to Rio
60 days, Lima to Rio de Janeiro
GDODC Quito to Rio
112 days, Quito to Rio via Ushuaia (GDOEC reverse)
GDVFC Cartagena to Lima
38 days, Cartagena to Lima
Additional information is available at intrepidtravel.com
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Cartagena, Colombia - Katharina Schuchmilski
Cartagena to Quito
19 days, Cartagena to Quito
Quito to Lima
20 days, Quito to Lima
PHYSICAL RATING
TRIP CODE GDOW
PHYSICAL RATING
TRIP CODE GDOA
CULTURAL RATING
DEPARTS
CULTURAL RATING
DEPARTS
Selected dates
Be a part of Colombia’s tourism revival on this thrilling Overland adventure that
takes in everything from colonial cities to Caribbean beaches and rural hillside
coffee plantations. With plenty of grassroots activities to get you mingling with the
locals, there are endless opportunities for the kind of authentic experiences you’ll be
talking about for years to come. Encounter the fiery nightlife of Medellin, Colombia’s
second-largest city, search the stalls of the Otavalo Markets and explore the deep
ravine cathedral of Ipiales on this journey through some of the best man-made and
natural highlights of Colombia and Ecuador. Get a unique insight into two of South
America’s most exciting, vibrant and rapidly evolving destinations.
Peru - Scott Howard
Selected dates
Jump on board this Overland adventure stretching between two of the continent’s
most iconic cities. Discover places of immense natural beauty and explore regions
far from the tourist trail. Delve deep into the Amazon and be privy to stunning views
along the snaking, spectacular Quilotoa Loop. Hike through the lush, mountainous
surrounds of Rio Verde, visit the ancient city of Chan Chan and traverse the cobbled
streets of colonial Cuenca. Enjoy the sun, sand and surf of glorious Punta Sal, then
explore the celebrated neighbourhoods and colonial hub of downtown Lima. With
plenty of flexibility to choose the activities that best suit you, this Overland journey
is the ultimate way to experience this spectacular stretch of South America.
Bolivia - Fiona Black
Lima to La Paz
La Paz to Buenos Aires
22 days, Lima to La Paz
21 days, La Paz to Buenos Aires
PHYSICAL RATING
TRIP CODE GDOKC
PHYSICAL RATING
TRIP CODE GDOG
CULTURAL RATING
DEPARTS
CULTURAL RATING
DEPARTS
Selected dates
Set out across the incredible Andes, once the domain of the ancient Incas, on this
remarkable South American sojourn. Be awed by the ingenuity of past civilisations
at the mysterious Nazca Lines and hike the historic Inca Trail to the monumental
marvel of Machu Picchu. Visit Puno’s ancient funerary towers, experience day-to-day
Andean life on an overnight homestay and explore the vast blue expanse of Lake
Titicaca and its ever-drifting reed islands. Wander amid the ruins of the Inca empire
and spot magnificent Andean condors soaring sky-high above Colca Canyon. From
the colonial sights of Lima to the colours of La Paz, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a
more ionic route through these incredible countries.
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Selected dates
Duck, wind and weave through South America’s heartland on this journey
overflowing with cultural riches and scenic splendours. Blaze a trail from La Paz
to the salt flats of Salar de Uyuni, then traverse the stunning lakes of the Bolivian
Altiplano into northern Argentina. Descend from the colour-splashed Andes
to the elegant streets of Salta, camp at a traditional estancia in the heart of
the Pampas and wind up in the cosmopolitan streets of South America’s most
sultry of cities, Buenos Aires. Discover a wealth of fascinating locations, majestic
landscapes and friendly Latin American locals on this epic Overland adventure
that’ll leave you totally enamoured with this corner of the world.
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil - Fernando Freitas
Buenos Aires to Rio
19 days, Buenos Aires to Rio
Cartagena to Cuzco
54 days, Cartagena to Cuzco
PHYSICAL RATING
TRIP CODE GDOK
PHYSICAL RATING
TRIP CODE GDVGC
CULTURAL RATING
DEPARTS
CULTURAL RATING
DEPARTS
Selected dates
Let adventure seek you out on a tantalising trip through Argentina towards the
bustling beats of Brazil. Enjoy wood-grilled parrillas in Buenos Aires or wile away the
night in one of the city’s heady tango clubs. Bear witness to the unbelievable power
of Iguazu Falls, one of South America’s natural wonders, before travelling onwards
to the wildlife haven of the Pantanal wetlands. Nature lovers will adore Bonito with
its crystal-clear rivers, natural springs and abundant wildlife, while the secluded bays
of Paraty offer the perfect place to unwind before hitting the hustle and hubbub of
Brazil’s carnival capital – Rio. Get your booty shaking to samba, your body lazing on
its famous sands or head up to Christ the Redeemer for a view of earthly splendour.
Lake Titicaca, Peru - Suzy Femger
Selected dates
Soak up the very best of South America’s western corner on this exciting Overland
adventure travelling from Cartagena to Cuzco. After exploring Colombia’s coastline
and idyllic islands, travel through the countryside and discover quaint cities, coffee
plantations, sleepy towns and grand volcanic landscapes. Continue on into Ecuador
to explore the colourful markets of Otavalo, the intriguing Amazon Jungle and the
volcanic landscapes of the Purace National Park. Then experience the best of Peru
– Paracas National Reserve, Lima, Arequipa and Cuzco – all culminating in a walk
along the revered Inca Trail. This journey provides a unique insight into nations that
are rapidly evolving. Come and be moved by their authenticity and beauty.
Inca Trail, Peru - Helene Liwinski
Lima to Buenos Aires
Lima to Rio
42 days, Lima to Buenos Aires
60 days, Lima to Rio
PHYSICAL RATING
TRIP CODE GDOBC
PHYSICAL RATING
TRIP CODE GDOTC
CULTURAL RATING
DEPARTS
CULTURAL RATING
DEPARTS
Selected dates
Zigzagging south through Peru, Bolivia and Argentina, this adventure from Lima
to Buenos Aires is destined to enchant. From the colonial grandeur of Lima, to the
cryptic lines of Nazca and the white façades of Arequipa, this continent unravels its
culture, cuisine and charm at every twist and turn. Discover the intriguing fusion of
Inca and Spanish heritages in Cuzco before splicing together the past and present
on a trek through spectacular landscapes to Machu Picchu. Experience life on Lake
Titicaca’s floating islands, marvel at the salt flats of Salar de Uyuni and tuck into a
traditional Argentine barbecue on an estancia stay. Breathtaking scenery, vibrant
cities, captivating countryside and epicurean delights – this trip really has it all.
Selected dates
Become immersed and versed in the vibrant cultures of South America on this
Overland adventure across Peru, Chile, Argentina, Bolivia and Brazil. Setting out from
the sparkling shores of Lima, travel through the centre of the Andes to the pulsating
energy of Buenos Aires before snaking up to Brazil’s Rio de Janeiro. Tackle the epic
Inca Trail to magnificent Machu Picchu, marvel at mighty Iguazu and head out by
canoe for some wildlife spotting on the Pantanal. Saddle up for a day at the reins
on an Argentinean estancia stay or, for something a little less macho, get those hips
a-swaying to the samba or the rumba. Behold breathtaking scenery and allow the
rich cultural heritage of this utterly bewitching continent to wash over you.
Additional information is available at intrepidtravel.com
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Peru - Nathan Kellett
Lima to Cuzco
Cuzco to La Paz
17 days, Lima to Cuzco
12 days, Cuzco to La Paz
PHYSICAL RATING
TRIP CODE GDOP
PHYSICAL RATING
TRIP CODE GDOL
CULTURAL RATING
DEPARTS
CULTURAL RATING
DEPARTS
Selected dates
Travel through the soaring heartland of the ancient Incas, from the Pacific coast of
Lima to the heights of the Andes in Cuzco. Offering remarkable wildlife, stunning
scenery and captivating culture, this is a truly unforgettable adventure. Wander
the streets of Arequipa and marvel at the white-stone architecture, explore the
wildlife-rich Ballestas Islands, trek along historic Inca pathways and pay a visit
to the ruins of Machu Picchu. Look out for Andean condors as they scour the
skies high above the Colca Canyon and experience local food and customs on a
Peruvian homestay. An adventure from the word go, this is an enchanting way to
explore this unique part of the world.
Bolivia - Chloe Milne
Embark on a journey to Peru and Bolivia and discover the secrets of these famously
mystical locations while traversing their diverse landscapes. Explore the streets of
Cuzco, a magical city nestled high in the mountains of Peru, and visit Puno to marvel
at the ancient funerary towers of Sillustani, which rise from the windswept Altiplano.
Sail to the intriguing reed islands speckled over Lake Titicaca and bask in the natural
beauty of the Island of the Sun. Trek along ancient Inca pathways and reach the
region’s very own wonder of the world – mighty Machu Picchu. Everything from
Inca heartlands to exciting cities and stunning scenery is covered in this trip – you’ll
be mesmerised by the sheer volume of incredible experiences here for the taking.
Patagonia - John Lyons
La Paz to Santiago
21 days, La Paz to Santiago
PHYSICAL RATING
TRIP CODE GDOC
CULTURAL RATING
DEPARTS
Selected dates
Set out on an unforgettable Andean adventure across Bolivia, Argentina and Chile.
Take in some of Bolivia’s most spectacular scenery, including the mesmerising
salt flats of Salar de Uyuni and the fiery-red Laguna Colorada, before crossing into
Argentina. Experience South American culture firsthand, sampling world-renowned
wines in Cafayate, exploring the Pampas on horseback and savouring the succulent
flavours of a traditional cattle ranch barbecue. If getting your gaucho on has got you
all worn out, the relaxed atmosphere of Mendoza will be a welcomed opportunity
to put those feet up and recuperate. Finally, a jaunt into Chile offers the chance to
enjoy a soiree in sensational Santiago, the country’s cosmopolitan capital.
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Selected dates
Santiago to Ushuaia
23 days, Santiago to Ushuaia
PHYSICAL RATING
TRIP CODE GDOI
CULTURAL RATING
DEPARTS
Selected dates
Thread through the slender corridor that separates the Andes and Argentina from
the sparkling Pacific Ocean on this Overland adventure from Santiago to Ushuaia.
Setting off from Santiago, Chile’s buzzing capital, there’ll be ample opportunities
to uncover some of this region’s divine local cuisine and diverse culture. Become
an expert in some of the country’s carmeneres and merlots while in the heart of
Chilean wine country. Journey through the volcanic vistas surrounding Pucon and
discover the dramatic Chilean fjord coast while camping in Patagonia. Step into the
spectacle of Torres del Paine to experience one of our planet’s most epic national
parks before finally reaching the world’s southernmost city, Ushuaia.
Santiago street art - Jo Stewart
Santiago to Buenos Aires
34 days, Santiago to Buenos Aires
Mexico City to Panama City
55 days, Mexico City to Panama City
PHYSICAL RATING
TRIP CODE GDOD
PHYSICAL RATING
TRIP CODE QDOYC
CULTURAL RATING
DEPARTS
CULTURAL RATING
DEPARTS
Selected dates
Delve deep into the wilds of South America’s southernmost tip for a taste of nature
at its most striking. Make Latin America’s acquaintance in sophisticated Santiago,
sample world-famous Chilean reds on a vineyard tour and give the old adrenaline
a kickstart by biking, hiking or rafting in action-packed Bariloche. Watch as the
landscape changes to a winter wonderland of epic peaks, expansive skies and thick
pine forests before it gives way, literally, at Fin del Mundo – ‘World’s End’. Be lucky
to witness chunks of ice tumble into the ocean at Perito Moreno Glacier, take in the
spectacular lakes of Torres del Paine and keep an eye out for whales while crossing
the Magellan Straits before ending up on the stately boulevards of Buenos Aires.
Selected dates
Nature, history and culture converge to staggering effect on this jaunt through an
often overlooked region. Travel from Mexico City to Panama through Mexico, El
Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica and Panama – if the stunning natural
landscapes and diverse flora and fauna don’t inspire you, the stately colonial cities
and no-holds-barred nightlife certainly will. Thrillseekers will be kept busy scaling
active volcanoes, shopaholics will thrive in the colourful local markets, and beach
lovers will delight in the pristine coral reefs and sparkling sands of the Caribbean.
Feel the hands of time pull you into ancient worlds while exploring Maya ruins and
get a taste of rural life while staying with families on various homestays.
Argentina - Bridget Tombleson
Ushuaia to Lima
Quito to Rio via Ushuaia
64 days, Ushuaia to Lima
112 days, Quito to Rio
PHYSICAL RATING
TRIP CODE GDBMC
PHYSICAL RATING
TRIP CODE GDODC
CULTURAL RATING
DEPARTS
CULTURAL RATING
DEPARTS
Selected dates
Journey along the backbone of the Andes on this colossal and comprehensive
South American adventure. From Ushuaia, Argentina’s southernmost city, to Lima,
Peru’s historic capital, this trip spans stunning Patagonian landscapes, the ruins of
ancient civilisations and traditional cultures that have barely changed in centuries
– such as the Uru people of Lake Titicaca. Explore Argentina’s still-growing Perito
Morino Glacier, take in the snow-capped glory of Torres del Paines National Park in
Chile and experience the mesmerising landscape of the Uyuni salt flats in Bolivia.
It all comes to an end in Peru, where the mighty Machu Picchu is but one of many
pre-Columbian mysteries to be discovered.
Selected dates
Get ready to explore some of South America’s most intriguing landscapes on this
incredible Overland trip through Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Chile, Argentina and Brazil.
Start off in Ecuador’s colourful capital, Quito, before exploring the jungle of the
Amazon, marvelling at mysterious Machu Picchu and heading south into the frozen
wilds of Patagonia. Be awestruck by the towering cliffs of Perito Moreno Glacier,
charmed by picturesque Bariloche and amazed by mighty Iguazu Falls before
partying it up in racy and rowdy Rio. Get set for big thrills, bigger adventures and
even bigger smiles on this monstrous 112-day experience that will ensure even the
most seasoned of travellers get an eye-opening South American experience.
Additional information is available at intrepidtravel.com
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