Dr. Jones Modern Odysseys

Lima, Peru

Arrive in Lima, a UNESCO World Heritage city and one of the world’s leading culinary capitals, where Indigenous, European and Asian influences have shaped a rich cultural and gastronomic heritage. This afternoon, explore the vibrant district of Barranco, known for its colourful street art, charming cafés, lively markets and bohemian atmosphere. This evening, meet your fellow travellers and enjoy a welcome dinner at Hotel B, where you'll be introduced to the flavours and traditions that have made Peru one of the world's most exciting culinary destinations.

Chachapoyas, Peru

For the next three nights, immerse yourself in the spectacular cloud forests of northern Peru, a remote region nestled between the Andes and the Amazon and renowned for its dramatic scenery and the enduring legacy of the ancient Chachapoya civilisation.

Explore this remarkable landscape on guided walks through mist-shrouded forests, culminating at the breathtaking Gocta Falls. Plunging more than 2,000 feet, it is one of the tallest waterfalls in the world and among South America's highest, yet remains remarkably untouched by mass tourism.

Delve deeper into the mysteries of the Chachapoya people as you visit their extraordinary sarcophagi, perched high on seemingly inaccessible cliffs overlooking the valley below. Learn about this enigmatic civilisation and the fascinating archaeological discoveries that continue to reveal their story. The region is also a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, offering opportunities to observe a dazzling array of endemic birdlife, including the rare and highly sought-after Marvelous Spatuletail hummingbird. Surrounded by pristine forests and spectacular mountain vistas, these days provide an unforgettable introduction to one of Peru's most captivating and lesser-known regions.

Paracas, Peru

Spend the next two nights in Paracas, a striking coastal desert where sweeping sand dunes meet the Pacific Ocean, creating one of Peru’s most dramatic landscapes. Shaped by powerful winds and sustained by rich marine ecosystems, this region offers a fascinating contrast of desert and sea. Upon arrival, enjoy lunch and a private Pisco tasting at the historic 1625 Vineyard, where you'll be introduced to Peru’s iconic national spirit amidst picturesque vineyards. The following day, head out onto the water for an exclusive marine experience alongside local fishermen.

Gain a unique insight into traditional harvesting techniques in one of the country’s most abundant coastal environments, with opportunities to dive and observe daily life at sea. Later, savour the freshest seafood from the day’s catch, served aboard your private yacht as you cruise along the coast.

As evening approaches, venture into the vast dunefields on a sunset drive, where the changing light casts ever-shifting colours and shadows across the desert landscape.

Return to Dune Camp for an unforgettable evening of gourmet dining under canvas, surrounded by sweeping desert vistas and star-filled skies. Before departing Peru, take to the skies for a scenic flight over the enigmatic Nazca Lines. From the air, admire these extraordinary ancient geoglyphs and gain a rare perspective on one of South America’s most intriguing archaeological mysteries.

Atacama, Chile

Fly into the Atacama Desert and settle in for two nights in one of the most extraordinary landscapes on Earth. The driest non-polar desert in the world, the Atacama is a place of striking contrasts, where vast salt flats, towering volcanoes, colourful rock formations and high-altitude lagoons create an almost otherworldly environment.

During your stay, join guided excursions through some of the region’s most remarkable scenery, including the vibrant Rainbow Valley, dramatic salt formations and geothermal landscapes shaped by centuries of volcanic activity. As night falls, experience one of the Atacama’s greatest natural wonders: its unparalleled night skies. Thanks to the desert’s high altitude, exceptionally low humidity and minimal light pollution, it offers some of the finest stargazing conditions anywhere in the world. Guided astronomy sessions and private observatory access provide an unforgettable opportunity to explore the constellations, planets and distant galaxies visible above the desert.

For a truly memorable perspective, rise before dawn for a hot air balloon flight over the Atacama. Drifting silently above the desert as the first light illuminates volcanic peaks, canyons and salt flats below, this is one of the most spectacular ways to appreciate the scale and beauty of this remarkable landscape.

Chiloé, Chile

Spend time exploring the Chiloé Archipelago, a windswept landscape of rolling farmland, native forests and rugged coastline, where centuries-old traditions, folklore and maritime heritage remain woven into everyday life.

Discover the island’s distinctive character during a visit to Castro, Chiloé’s colourful capital. Stroll along the waterfront, where the iconic palafitos stand on stilts above the tidal shoreline and traditional wooden fishing boats bob gently in the harbour. Along the way, meet local artisans, learn about the island’s seafaring heritage and gain insight into the customs that have shaped life here for generations.

A highlight of your visit is a traditional curanto, Chiloé’s signature feast. Prepared using time-honoured methods, shellfish, meats and potatoes are slow-cooked underground over hot stones, creating a memorable dining experience deeply rooted in local culture.

After days of exploration, enjoy time to unwind at the Spa at Refugia. Overlooking the wildlife-rich waters and wetlands of Pullao Bay, the spa offers a peaceful retreat with indoor and outdoor pools, panoramic terraces, a seashell-inspired wooden sauna and steam room. Surrounded by Chiloé’s tranquil natural beauty, it is the perfect setting to relax and reflect on your journey through this remarkable archipelago.

Patagonia, Chile

Arrive in Patagonia and spend the next three nights immersed in one of the world’s most spectacular wilderness regions. Defined by soaring granite peaks, vast glaciers, turquoise lakes and sweeping pampas, this is a landscape of extraordinary scale and beauty.

Explore the highlights of Torres del Paine National Park on guided overland excursions, taking in its iconic viewpoints, vibrant glacial lakes and dramatic mountain scenery. Gentle walks around Salto Grande and Laguna Azul offer opportunities to appreciate the park’s remarkable natural diversity while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.

One of the most rewarding ways to experience Patagonia is on horseback. Riding across open steppe, alongside glacial-fed rivers and beneath towering mountain backdrops, you'll discover the landscape at a pace that allows for a deeper connection with its vast and untamed character. This traditional mode of travel remains an integral part of life in the region and offers a unique perspective on the Patagonian wilderness. You'll also gain insight into the culture of the gauchos, Patagonia’s legendary horsemen, whose way of life has shaped the region for generations.

During a visit to a traditional estancia, learn about local pastoral traditions and the enduring relationship between people and the land. The experience concludes with a classic Patagonian asado, where meats are slow-cooked over an open flame and shared in true local style — a fitting celebration of the landscapes, traditions and hospitality that define this remarkable corner of South America.