Day 1: Start of tour in Rio de Janeiro
Welcome to bustling Rio! This exciting South America tour begins in one of the most iconic seaside cities in Brazil. Arrive early to explore, or make your way straight to the hotel to meet up with your tour leader and group this evening. Set out with the group to enjoy a welcome dinner at a nearby restaurant tonight. Look forward to a delicious, authentic Feijoada meal! Tuck into Brazil’s flavourful national dish (a stew of meat and beans) while getting to know your new travel companions.
Day 2: Rio de Janeiro City Tour
Meet up with the local guide after breakfast for a full-day tour of Rio! The city is scenic to the core and the coach stands ready to take you along the main avenues, from which pedestrian footpaths will lead you deeper into the magic. Tick off a few bucket list items today - including a visit to the Christ the Redeemer statue on top of Mount Corcovado and a stop at the beautiful, tiled Selarón staircase in the bohemian Lapa neighbourhood! Visit the Metropolitan Cathedral and admire its striking modern architectural style. See even more top sights including the Maracanã Stadium as you drive back to the hotel before tonight’s free evening.
Day 3: Rio de Janeiro: Free Day
Make the most of a free day in Rio! Looking to experience the city’s top sights? The Rio optional excursion is highly recommended! This exciting excursion will take you up to the iconic Sugarloaf Mountain in a cable car for incredible views of the city. It also includes visits to the famous Kobra graffiti wall, São Cristóvão local fair, Samba City (home of the annual Rio Carnival!) and ends with a sunset on Ipanema beach. Alternatively, explore the city at your own pace and absorb the vibrant culture, history and atmosphere!
Day 4: Rio de Janeiro - Paraty
Wave Rio a fond farewell and journey down Brazil’s Costa Verde (Green Coast). Drink in the epic scenery on the drive - oceans, dense jungles and more! Later today, arrive in Paraty, a beautiful colonial port town. Check in at the hotel and take a walking tour of Paraty with a local guide. Marvel at the cobbled streets and stunning architecture, plus enjoy a visit to the historic centre which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Tonight enjoy free time to spend in Paraty as you wish.
Day 5: Paraty: Free Day
Take the day to explore Paraty at your leisure. The town forms part of the Serra da Bocaina National Park so there is plenty of natural beauty simply waiting to be explored! Think beaches, islands and waterfalls. The historical town also boasts plenty of lovely buildings and historical attractions. Keen on an organised outing? Join the Jeep Tour in Paraty optional excursion for an exciting 4x4 jeep tour through the surrounding rainforest plus a visit to a local cachaça distillery where the group will get to taste cachaça and learn all about its history!
Day 6: Paraty - São Paulo
Leave Paraty behind and venture to the megacity of São Paulo. The buzzing financial hub of Brazil is truly a sight to see and experience! Follow in the footsteps of a local guide to learn more about the city on a guided tour. Stop at the famous Mercadão (a sprawling food market) with free time for lunch - be sure to try something local! Tonight is free to spend at your leisure. Experience São Paulo’s nightlife or relax at the hotel after a full day of exploration.
Day 7: São Paulo - flight to Foz do Iguaçu - Iguazu Falls Brazilian side
Up and at 'em - travel to Guarulhos Airport to catch a flight to the Brazilian city of Foz do Iguaçu. Upon arrival, head straight for the world-famous Iguazu Falls (also known as Iguazú Falls) in Iguaçu National Park. It's the largest waterfall system in the world, and a breathtaking sight to behold! Follow pathways all the way to the mist-shrouded foot of the falls. Head back to the hotel after the tour and get ready for a delicious Brazilian barbecue dinner.
Day 8: Foz de Iguaçu: Free Day
Adventure awaits today with exciting optional excursions on offer during this free day in Foz de Iguaçu! Today’s top optional activity offers a guided tour to the Argentinean side of the Iguazu Falls. Peruse the various walkways and trails or take a ride on the gas-powered train in the park. Please note that if weather conditions are unfavourable, this optional activity will be moved to another day. Back in Brazil, choose to join the Rafain show and dinner optional for an evening of fun and delicious food! Delight in a traditional churrascaria meal along with an incredible display of South American music and dance!
Day 9: Foz do Iguaçu (Brazil): Free Day
Enjoy another day of exploration around Foz do Iguaçu. Why not visit the amazing local bird park (150 species!) or take a helicopter ride over the falls? Alternatively, take the opportunity to visit a different country - Paraguay! Travel via the International Bridge of Friendship and cross the Paraná River to enter Ciudad del Este. Shop at local markets, see the Monday waterfalls and visit the Itaipú Dam. This evening, join the “Victor’s House” optional excursion to experience a festive night of Brazilian hospitality complete with all-you-can-eat BBQ, drinks, music and dancing!
Day 10: Iguassu Falls - flight to Buenos Aires
Rise and shine, it’s time to travel to the next country - Argentina! Head to Puerto Iguazú airport to catch a flight to Buenos Aires. This vibrant city holds countless attractions! Arrive and transfer to the hotel. Then, follow in the slipstream of a local guide on a city tour. Discover the famous Buenos Aires Obelisk, encounter the Plaza de Mayo, visit the colourful La Boca, and explore the cobblestoned foundational San Telmo and the Recoleta cemetery. Plus, so much more! Dinner is included tonight at a restaurant near the hotel.
Day 11: Buenos Aires: Free Day
Ready, set, explore! Set out on your own and soak up the rich history and culture of Buenos Aires. Alternatively, add another country to your tour with an optional day trip to Colonia del Sacramento in Uruguay. Visit the UNESCO-listed historic city centre and its 19th-century lighthouse. You could even climb to the top of the lighthouse for panoramic views of the city! It’s sure to be a beautiful day out. This evening, there is an optional dinner and a tango show on offer. Discover the beauty of this distinctly Argentinian dance and enjoy delicious local cuisine!
Day 12: Buenos Aires: Free Day
Enjoy a free day in Buenos Aires! Take your pick of a bunch of things to do in the bustling Argentinian capital. Seek out must-sees like the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes. How about a tango lesson or cooking experience? Or simply stroll through the streets at your leisure. Alternatively, add another country to your tour with an optional day trip to Colonia del Sacramento in Uruguay. It’s sure to be a beautiful day out! Tonight is the final night of the tour. To celebrate an incredible time in South America, join the group for a lovely dinner at a local restaurant this evening.
Day 13: End of tour in Buenos Aires
After spending your final night in Buenos Aires, and 13 days of South American adventures, the tour comes to an end at breakfast this morning. If you wish to take a transfer to Ministro Pistarini International Airport or Aeroparque Airport, you can book it with Expat Explore, simply contact the Customer Service team. Don't forget to exchange contact details with your new found friends before you head home. Have a safe onward journey!