Day 1 : Arrive in Buenos Aires
Nicknamed the “Paris of South America”, this glamorous destination really does live up to its European counterpart. Neoclassical, Art Nouveau and Art Deco buildings line its streets, attracting equally as sophisticated travelers. On arrival, you’ll be transferred to your luxury hotel, the Alvear Icon. Located on the banks of the Río de la Plata in Puerto Madero. Relax and unwind before meeting your Travel Director and fellow guests for a three-course Welcome Dinner with wine.
Accommodation : Alvear Icon Hotel, Buenos Aires
Day 2 : Explore Buenos Aires Relaxed Start
Start your first full day in Buenos Aires with a city tour. Take in the capital's key sights including the Metropolitan Cathedral, Casa Rosada and Plaza de Mayo.Later, visit the historic Mercado San Telmo. Built in 1897, this indoor market is situated in the Tango District, in the heart of the San Telmo neighbourhood.Witness a private demonstration and performance by professional tango dancers at an authentic “conventillo” in La Boca, where you will be introduced to this passionate dance and upbeat music.In the evening, enjoy an authentic Asado Porteno (Argentinian barbecue) with a local chef.
Accommodation : Alvear Icon Hotel, Buenos Aires
Day 3 : On to Colonia del Sacramento
Travel by ferry across the Rio de la Plata, otherwise known as the River Plate. Visit the city of Colonia del Sacramento with its cobbled streets and historic buildings. Now a UNESCO World heritage site, this colourful destination was originally founded by the Portuguese in the 1600s. Enjoy lunch with wine at a local olive farm, Viñedos y Olivares del Quintón, known for their characteristic terrain and thermal air, the perfect setting for vineyards and olive groves. In the afternoon, take a guided walking tour of the protected old city and its 16th century buildings before arriving in Uruguay in the capital of Montevideo.
Accommodation : Hotel Costanero MGallery, Montevideo.
Day 4 : Visit Juanicó Winery
Just north of Montevideo sits Juanicó winery, one of the leading wineries of the country. You’ll be welcomed with a tour of the vineyards, state-of-the-art facilities, and the wine cellar built in 1840. After learning how past and present blend to create wines that receive gold medals and international recognition, sit down to a leisurely lunch. A sip of one of their Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Gewurztraminer, Riesling and Sauvignon Gris or flagship full-bodied red will leave you with a new appreciation for Uruguayan wines.
Accommodation : Hotel Costanero MGallery, Montevideo.
Day 5 : Return to Buenos Aires Relaxed Start
Enjoy a leisurely morning before your transfer to the ferry escorting you back to Buenos Aires. The afternoon is yours to customise with Insight Choice. Take in the city from the water on a boat tour displaying the city’s fascinating neighbourhoods. Or, tour the bustling San Telmo Market’s many stalls of local goods from fragrant coffee and spices to rare antiques. With another evening in this vibrant city, seize the opportunity to watch a tango performance or ask your Travel Director where to enjoy a relaxing dinner of the region's famous steak.
Accommodation : Alvear Icon Hotel, Buenos Aires
Day 6 : Buenos Aires to Iguassu Falls
With over 270 waterfalls, rare flora and fauna, and lush rainforest, your destination really is as impressive as the photos suggest. Meaning “big water” in the Guaraní language, the stunning falls land in both Argentina and Brazil. Stay on the Argentinian side of the National Park for two nights, at the luxurious Gran Melia hotel. With two outdoor pools, a modern spa and a stylish interior, you’ll be able to relax and rejuvenate in a fitting manner. Have a night at leisure as you take in your beautiful surroundings.
Accommodation : Gran Melia, Iguassu Falls
Day 7 : Sightseeing at Iguassu Falls Relaxed Start
Take in breathtaking views of the jungle and falls, before heading out with a Local Expert to explore the Argentinian side of the park. Take an optional Gran Aventura boat ride to Devil’s Throat, the largest and perhaps most famous water cascade in the park. This u-shaped waterfall contains 14 falls in total and is more than 262 feet (80 metres) high. Your Highlight Dinner will be served at The Argentine Experience where you'll learn how to prepare your own wine based cocktail, and your own empanadas. Afterwords, savour an Argentinian picada and sample mate and Alfajores, Argentina's famous national sweet. To enhance your dining experience, your dishes will be complemented by Argentinian wines.
Accommodation : Gran Melia, Iguassu Falls
Day 8 : The Brazilian Side
Wake up inside the National Park and enjoy breakfast with a tropical view at your hotel. Today you’ll take a guided visit to the Brazilian side of Iguassu Falls. While the walk around the Brazilian side is shorter, it's no less impressive. The falls are further away which allows you take in all of them at once with a unique vantage point. Your Local Expert will show you panoramic views of San Martin Island, before you head to the airport for your flight to Rio. Move on to the capital of samba and the home of iconic Copacabana Beach, famous for its stretch of golden sand. Your luxury hotel is situated on the beach itself. The rest of the evening will be at leisure. Either relax at your hotel or head out and explore the area’s local nightlife.
Accommodation : Fairmont Rio de Janeiro Copacabana
Day 9 : Explore Rio de Janeiro
This morning, visit a local produce market and sample some of Brazil's unique fruits. Afterwards, join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience with a local botanist for a special guided visit to Rio’s Botanical Garden, a preservation site for a rare collection of bromeliads and orchids, as well as old trees and exotic plants. Made up of museums, research and cultural centres, the park showcases over 6500 different species of plants, both local and foreign. Enjoy a Highlight Lunch with a classic caipirinha cocktail at Casa Camolese, a contemporary restaurant situated next to the garden. Conclude your day with a cable car ride up to Sugarloaf Mountain.
Accommodation : Fairmont Rio de Janeiro Copacabana
Day 10 : Leisure time in Rio de Janeiro Relaxed Start
In the morning, take a tour of Tijuca Forest National Park, where you’ll find Mount Corcovado, home to the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue.Spend the afternoon at leisure. Why not soak up the sun on Copacabana Beach or ask your Travel Director for the best spot to grab a Brazilian coffee?In the evening, commemorate your holiday as you join your new friends for a memorable Celebration Dinner at a traditional Brazilian churrascaria, offering views of the Sugarloaf Mountain.
Accommodation : Fairmont Rio de Janeiro Copacabana
Day 11 : Depart Rio de Janeiro
It’s time to say goodbye to your fellow travelers as your trip comes to an end. Take our organised transfer to Rio de Janeiro-Antonio Carlos Jobim International Airport.