Catholic Pilgrimages to Central & South America
Book a TripIn the Footsteps of Pope Leo XIV: A Catholic Pilgrimage Through Peru & Brazil with Select International
Our pilgrimage will take us through the lands of Pope Leo XIV’s apostolic mission and the great Marian shrines of South America. We will experience the grace of service in Chiclayo, the wonder of Machu Picchu, the tenderness of Our Lady of Aparecida, and stand beneath the arms of Christ the Redeemer stretched wide over the world He came to save.
Peru & Brazil are steeped in both rich history and a deep devotion to the Catholic Faith.
Peru is home to some of the world’s oldest and most remarkable civilizations. These societies developed advanced agriculture, engineering, architecture, and art long before European contact, leaving behind impressive temples, cities, and archaeological treasures. The Inca Empire, centered in Cusco, became the largest empire in the Americas, connected by an extensive network of roads and renowned for masterpieces such as Machu Picchu. Today, Peru’s ancient heritage continues to inspire visitors and offers a fascinating glimpse into the ingenuity and spirituality of its early peoples.
Catholicism has shaped Peru’s history and culture since the 16th century and remains the country’s largest religion. Magnificent churches, monasteries, and shrines stand alongside ancient Indigenous traditions, reflecting a unique blend of faith and culture that continues to inspire pilgrims and visitors alike.
Rio de Janeiro is one of the world’s most beautiful cities, famed for its dramatic setting between lush mountains and the Atlantic Ocean. Home to iconic landmarks such as Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf Mountain, Rio blends breathtaking natural scenery with vibrant culture, rich history, and deep Catholic heritage.
Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu is the spectacular 15th-century Inca citadel perched high in the Andes Mountains and is one of the world’s most celebrated archaeological sites. A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, it is renowned for its remarkable stonework, breathtaking mountain setting, and enduring mystery.
Lima
Lima, Peru’s capital, is a vibrant coastal city where Spanish colonial history, rich Catholic heritage, and modern culture come together. Its UNESCO-listed historic center is home to magnificent churches, monasteries, and plazas that reflect its important role in the evangelization of South America.
Our Lady of Aparecida
Our Lady of Aparecida is the patroness of Brazil and is honored through a small image of the Blessed Virgin Mary that was miraculously discovered by fishermen in the Paraíba River in 1717. The Basilica of Our Lady of Aparecida is now one of the world’s largest Marian shrines, welcoming millions of pilgrims each year.
Christ the Redeemer
The Christ the Redeemer statue stands atop Corcovado Mountain overlooking Rio de Janeiro and is one of the world’s most recognizable symbols of Christianity. Completed in 1931, the 98-foot Art Deco monument welcomes visitors with outstretched arms as a powerful sign of faith, peace, and hope.
Why Choose Select International Tours for Your Catholic Pilgrimage to Peru & Brazil?
Beyond simply visiting sites in Peru & Brazil, Select International Tours curates experiences that enrich your pilgrimage and strengthen your faith by connecting you to the culture and deep Catholic heritage of the two countries.
Our knowledgeable and faith-filled tour hosts act as more than just group leaders. They provide insightful commentary throughout the journey, leading prayer and fostering a deeper understanding of each site’s historical and spiritual significance. Our local guides ensure you understand exactly what you see and the history involved. Here are some reasons is the perfect choice:
Rich and Unique Itineraries: Our tours are carefully crafted to take you to the most significant Catholic sites in Central and South America: places like Lima Cathedral on the Plaza Mayor, and the Basilica of Our Lady of Aparecida, patron saint of Brazil. You will also explore each country’s rich cultural history and taste its exquisite cuisine. Your tour is customized to your group leader’s exact specifications, which means you get a tour that no one else has.
Excellent Guides and Group Leaders: Many of the most prominent Catholic Clergy, evangelists, speakers, authors, and media personalities travel with Select International Tours. Your Group Leader works with us to craft a unique trip for you. Then, while traveling, they work with the best Local Christian Guides to ensure that you learn the history of each site, get time to pray, and experience the religious and personal significance of visiting these places yourself.
Daily Mass and Time for Prayer: Confirmed Daily Mass at sacred sites throughout the journey is standard on a Select pilgrimage. We also build in time for prayer and veneration, to make sure that yours is a true pilgrimage. Every trip has a priest to ensure that you have spiritual guidance at every turn.
Experience the Culture and History: With Select International Tours, you have time to experience the local culture in unique ways while visiting Mexico. Your tour might include cultural show, a local beverage tasting, or a cooking class. See the trip brochures for specifics.
The Best Accommodations and Private Motor Coaches: Pilgrimage touring can be tiring, which is why we book the best centrally located hotels for your stay. You’ll also travel in comfort daily on modern private air-conditioned motor coaches.
Your Trip Supports Christians: A small portion of your pilgrimage fee with Select International Tours goes to the Select to Give Foundation, which ensures that Christian families can remain and thrive in the Holy Land.
Select Only Uses the Best Christian Guides
Select International Tours only works with the best and most ethical guides in the business. We wouldn’t trust your trip to anyone we don’t trust.
We were most impressed by our tour guide and the bus driver. [Our Guide] was very knowledgeable, friendly, and truly concerned about our experience. [Our Driver] was a skilled driver through the narrow streets and busy highways.
Our guide for this trip was amazing as well. He was very knowledgeable and helpful. Guiding a group of 40+ people had to be so difficult, but I appreciated everything he did.
Our guide was amazing, so well informed and answered all our questions with excellent answers
Scheduled Central & South America Trips
We Are Always Adding New Trips
Finding exactly the right trip for you can seem challenging. It has to be the right duration, on the right dates, and it should be with a leader you trust. Lucky for you, Select constantly adds new trips to give you plenty of options. Click HERE to find a scheduled trip to join or to get notified as we add new trips. Or, better yet, give us a call at 1-800-842-4842, and we will help you find the perfect pilgrimage for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Everyone has questions before departing on a pilgrimage. Here are a few common questions that you might be asking.
What’s the Typical Duration of a Pilgrimage?
Our Catholic pilgrimages to Mexico typically range from 7 to 10 days, allowing ample time for spiritual reflection and exploring each site. However, we sometimes offer shorter trips based on the group’s needs.
What’s the Best Time to Go?
Most people visit Mexico in the Winter, Spring, and Fall when temperatures are generally mild during the day with cooler nights.
What Physical Fitness Level Is Required?
A moderate amount of walking will be involved, so a basic level of fitness is recommended. Please see the activity level on the trip you’re considering to understand the amount of walking involved.
What’s Included in the Pilgrimage Cost?
Select International Tours offers all-inclusive packages that cover your flights, accommodations, meals, transportation within Mexico, entrance fees to all sites on the itinerary, and the expertise of our guides. We also offer land-only packages and optional extensions. See the trip brochure for more information.
What Should I Pack?
Comfortable walking shoes, modest clothing suitable for churches, a hat, sunscreen, and a refillable water bottle are essential. You may also want to pack a small Bible and any religious articles that hold personal significance. Be sure to watch some of our Two-Minute Travel Tips for more tips and tricks.
Are There Opportunities to Experience Mexican Culture?
Absolutely! We incorporate visits to charming towns, historic landmarks, local markets, and many special experiences, allowing you to savor the rich tapestry of Mexican culture.
Lead a Custom Pilgrimage for Your Group
Focus on Your People, We'll make the Arrangements
Do you have a group of ten or more people that want to travel together? Let's partner and plan a trip! It's easy to get started.
- Pick a destination.
- Decide when you want to travel.
- Select will arrange all the details.
- Focus on enjoying your trip!
Are you ready to get started? All it takes is a phone call.