GLIMPSE OF SOUTH
AMERICA 11 DAYS FROM $2,895 US Details below or
click here for more information INQUIRY FORM
See the best of South America with its unique cultures and traditions on this exhilarating At Leisure itinerary. Enjoy learning about the traditions of the Brazilian people such as how to mix the perfect Caipirinha and their passion for soccer, the Tango and wine, with a charismatic Local Expert. Admire the staggering Iguassu Falls and explore the energetic streets of Buenos Aires, experiencing all the sights and sounds of this lively city on this leisurely paced itinerary.
Highlights
Rio de Janeiro,
Iguassu Falls,
Buenos Aires
Day 1 to Day 2 DEPART GATEWAY - ARRIVE RIO DE JANEIRO (4 NIGHTS) Board your overnight flight to South America (not included in vacation price). Bemvindo ao Rio de Janeiro! Upon your early morning arrival on Day 2, you will be met by a local representative and taken to your hotel where your room is available for immediate occupancy. The morning is at leisure - enjoy your oceanfront hotel overlooking Copacabana Beach, minutes from downtown Rio. This afternoon, join your Travel Director and explore the cidade maravilhosa (marvelous city) including the 18th century aqueduct, colonial Candelaria Church, Opera House, Sambodromo and city Cathedral. Stroll in Flamengo Park and ascend Sugarloaf Mountain via cable car for astounding views over the city and the bay. This evening, enjoy a Welcome Reception at the hotel.
Meal(s): (Full Breakfast)
Hotel: Rio Othon Palace (MD)
Day 3 RIO DE JANEIRO SIGHTSEEING & AT LEISURE Journey by cogwheel train to the summit of majestic Corcovado, site of the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Back down the mountain see the song-inspiring Copacabana and Ipanema beaches. This afternoon is at leisure. This evening, learn to mix the national cocktail – Caipirinha, and indulge in a traditional barbeque Highlight Dinner at a local churrascaria, followed by a Rio Carnival extravaganza of Samba song-and-dance.
Meal(s): (Full Breakfast / Highlight Dinner)
Day 4 RIO DE JANEIRO AT LEISURE
Enjoy a full day to explore the wonders of Rio on your own. Perhaps explore the historic mountain resort of Petropolis, site of the second Brazilian Emperor’s former Summer Palace; choose to embark on an optional half-day journey by jeep and foot into the lush Tijuca National Park, or cruise the emerald waters of Sepetiba Bay stopping at one of the idyllic islands for lunch, time for swimming and relaxing on the beach.
Meal(s): (Full Breakfast)
Day 5 RIO DE JANEIRO - IGUASSU FALLS (2 NIGHTS)
This morning, watch and learn the process of precious metals and rough Brazilian gemstones transform into works of art before flying to magnificent Iguassu Falls, on the border of Brazil, Argentina and Paraguay. These 275 separate falls cover nearly two miles along the Iguassu River. This evening, enjoy a convivial dinner with your companions at the hotel.
Day 6 IGUASSU FALLS SIGHTSEEING & AT LEISURE
Enter Iguassu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explore the Brazilian side of Iguassu, including a scenic walk through the rainforest at the base of the falls. After a Highlight Lunch at a restaurant overlooking the falls, return to your hotel for a leisurely afternoon. Maybe enjoy the hotel’s thermal pools, visit the Parque das Aves home to more than 500 species of tropical birds, or take an optional excursion into the lush Macuco rainforest full of flora and fauna of the jungle and then cruise the river to see the falls from below.
Meal(s): (Full Breakfast / Highlight Lunch)
Day 7 IGUASSU FALLS - BUENOS AIRES (3 NIGHTS)
Cross the border into Argentina and take a guided walk along a scenic catwalk. Board the open-air Ecological Jungle Train for a different perspective on the falls and see the thunderous Devil’s Throat Falls. Fly to Buenos Aires where your hotel is in the center of all the action: boutiques, fine dining, museums and the famous Teatro Colon. This evening, enjoy a light buffet dinner with drinks followed by a presentation by a Local Expert on the country’s culture, traditions and passions such as tango, Malbec wines, beef, soccer and polo to name a few.
Meal(s): (Full Breakfast / Dinner)
Hotel: Sheraton Libertador Hotel (SF)
Day 8 BUENOS AIRES SIGHTSEEING & AT LEISURE
Embark on an in-depth tour - see the Casa Rosada, Metropolitan Cathedral and other government buildings; world-renowned Teatro Colon; the colorful neighborhood of La Boca; San Telmo’s famed outdoor market, and lovely Palermo. Watch and learn how Argentine leathers are turned into fine leather goods at the workshop of a master artisan. Lastly, visit the Recoleta Cemetery and Evita Museum, dedicated to Argentina’s former First Lady. After some free time, join your Travel Director for a Be My Guest experience hosted by a local family. Learn about your hosts’ passion for art as you visit their beautiful residence, then head for the kitchen where the family cook will teach you how to make delicious empanadas - rolled pies with various fillings. Savor traditional local fare while learning about Argentina’s wonderful wines and sampling some of the best vintages of the region.
Meal(s): (Full Breakfast / Be My Guest dinner)
Day 9 BUENOS AIRES AT LEISURE
A full day at leisure - explore on your own with your included ‘hop-on, hop-off’ sightseeing ticket, or perhaps take an optional excursion to the UNESCO World Heritage city of Colonia del Sacramento in Uruguay, or to a traditional estancia (ranch) to learn about the life of a gaucho (cowboy) while enjoying a barbeque lunch and equestrian show. This evening, get ready for a festive Farewell Dinner and a chance to savor renowned Argentinean beef followed by a sensual tango dance performance.
Meal(s): (Full Breakfast / Farewell Dinner)
Day 10 DEPART BUENOS AIRES
Transfer to the airport for your flight home (not included in vacation price). For your comfort, your rooms are reserved until 5 p.m. Depending on your next destination and flight schedule, you may arrive back in the USA on Day 10 or Day 11.
Meal(s): (Continental breakfast / Full breakfast)
What's Included
Sightseeing Highlights
Rio de Janeiro
Discover the city’s main sights; enjoy a cogwheel train ride through Tijuca Forest and up Corcovado Mountain to see the famous Christ the Redeemer statue; ride a cable car up to the summit of Sugarloaf Mountain for awe-inspiring views; experience a Rio Carnival extravaganza Samba show.
Iguassu Falls Embark on guided tours of the massive falls from both the Brazilian and Argentinean sides; browse the Visitors Center; ride the Ecological Jungle Train.
Buenos Aires Immerse yourself in the culture and passion of the “Paris of South America;” explore the city’s main sights; visit the Evita Museum; stroll through the famous Recoleta Cemetery; enjoy a captivating tango show.
Insider Highlights
Hidden Treasures Enjoy at least one surprise Hidden Treasure experience, unique to your itinerary, courtesy of your expert Travel Director.
Be My Guest Spend an enlightening evening with a family at their elegant home in Buenos Aires; learn how to make traditional empanadas, then discuss and sample exquisite Argentinian wines.
Local Expert Discover the idiosyncrasies and treasures of Argentina during a private lecture to discuss, enjoy and be surprised by the traits that make Argentina such a unique country.
Local Specialty Learn how to mix the perfect Caipirinha, Brazil’s national cocktail; find out about Brazilian gemstones in Rio and watch them transformed into beautiful jewelry; visit a leather workshop in Buenos Aires and learn how the finest Argentine leathers are crafted into fine designs.
Dining Highlights
Welcome Reception with your Travel Director in Rio de Janeiro.
9 full breakfasts.
2 three-course or buffet dinners.
Highlight Lunch at Iguassu Falls.
Highlight Dinner with wine in Rio de Janeiro.
Be My Guest Dinner with wine in Buenos Aires.
Farewell Dinner with wine in Buenos Aires.
First Class Travel Highlights
A Tour Operator bonus - guaranteed early hotel check-in and immediate use of your room upon arrival in Rio de Janeiro on Day 2, and guaranteed late hotel check-out until 5 p.m. in Buenos Aires on Day 10.
A Tour Operator bonus - all Intra-Air Flights: Rio to Iguassu and Iguassu to Buenos Aires, including porter service at all airports.
Qualified local guides in Iguassu and Buenos Aires.
Capture treasured memories of your trip with a complimentary group photo taken at a landmark location.
OPTIONAL EXTRAS
IN RIO DE JANEIRO
HALF DAY PANORAMIC TOUR INCLUDING NITEROI
Pass by the beaches and Flamengo Park on your way to the boat station. Board the ferry bound to beautiful Niteroi, a city located across the bay from Rio. Stop for pictures at the Contempory Art Museum, then proceed along the beaches up to the Santa Cruz Fortress. The return will be via the 9 mile Presidente Arthur Costa e Silva Bridge that links the cities of Rio de Janeiro and Niteroi. Tour length: 4 hours
HALF DAY TIJUCA FOREST JEEP TOUR
Experience Rio off the beaten path. Take an open-top jeep ride through the urban Tijuca Forest, a section of the endangered Atlantic Rainforest. Stop for a walk past mountains, streams and waterfalls. This is an ideal place to experience the breathtaking sights, sounds and smells of the rainforest. Light clothing, walking shoes and sun protection are advisable. Tour length: 4 hours
HALF DAY GUANABARA BAY CRUISE
Transfer to the Marina da Gloria pier and board a schooner for a 2-hour cruise. The route follows the coastline of Rio de Janeiro, with wonderful views of the city and Sugar Loaf Mountain. Sail past Niteroi, Jurujuba, Charitas and Icaraí beaches. You will also see Fiscal Island, the Rio-Niteroi Bridge, historic fortresses and more. Tour length: 3 hours
HALF DAY TOUR TO PETROPOLIS
Enjoy a scenic drive up the Serra dos Orgaos Range and through the lush vegetation of the Atlantic Rainforest. See the Summer Palace, the Cathedral, the Crystal Palace and charming city square. Tour length: 4 hours
FULL DAY TROPICAL ISLAND CRUISE
Head south along the Green Coast to the quaint fishing village of Itacuruça. Here, board a schooner for a leisurely cruise on the placid green waters of Sepetiba Bay with its tropical islands. Stop at one of the islands for a refreshing dip followed by a tropical style buffet lunch. Afterward there is free time for swimming and relaxing on the beach. Beverages are not included. Tour length: 8 hours
IN IGUASSU FALLS
HALF DAY MACUCO SAFARI AND BOAT TOUR
This tour starts at the Macuco Trail in Brazilian National Park, just a few miles from Iguassu Falls. Open-air wagons pulled by jeeps and accompanied by bilingual guides allow for an unhindered view of this lush, subtropical ecosystem. Watch for birds and wildlife, and see the orchids and unusual flora. After a short ride, take an easy hike down the canyon where the Macuco Falls tumble over basalt cliffs and into the Iguassu basin. At the river, board specially designed, inflatable motorboats for a 20-30 minute ride into the canyon to the base of Iguassu Falls. Tour length: 4 hours
IN BUENOS AIRES
HALF DAY TIGRE DELTA
On this private tour, you will head along the northern residential districts of the city, and continue to Tigre, a charming area near Buenos Aires. There a great number of summer residences, yacht clubs and rowing clubs here. The Tigre Delta, with its numerous rivers, streams and islands, gives the Parana River and its estuary their unusual color. Enjoy a 1 hour boat excursion through the river and along the channels of the Delta. Tour length: 4 hours
TIGRE DELTA WITH RIVERSIDE TRAIN
On a coach with other travelers head to Tigre, a playground for the rich and famous located 20 miles from Buenos Aires. Along the way visit the northern suburbs of Buenos Aires, drive along Libertador Avenue and pass the residential government house in Olivos. Board the Riverside Train. Ride past lovely homes, then stop in San Isidro to enjoy its beautiful square and the cathedral. In Tigre, embark on a cruise on the Tigre River. Tour length: 4 hours
TANGO LESSON MANSION DANDI ROYAL
Located at San Telmo, the Tango’s birthplace, Mansion Dandi Royal is a unique residence constructed in an eclectic architectural style and filled with art nouveaux pieces. The public spaces are decorated with murals portraying Tango scenes and original objects d’art. Guests have the opportunity to take a group lesson with experienced instructors.
FIESTA GAUCHA WITH BBQ LUNCH
Travel to an estancia located in the district of Campana. First, a guided tour shows you the Spanish-colonial style “casco,” an authentic period museum. Then take a horseback ride to experience the charm of the Argentine countryside. A BBQ will be served with a variety of meats and salads followed by a folklore show of music and dance. The day ends with activities and games that are common in the region. Tour length: 8 hours
COLONIA DEL SACRAMENTO TOUR INCLUDING LUNCH
Colonia is one of the few remaining colonial towns of South America. Over 300 years of history has left its mark on this territory declared a Historic Heritage of Humanity site by UNESCO. On a city tour, pass cobblestone streets and admire the charming houses. Transfers to Colonia from Buenos Aires are by ferry or hydrofoil. Tour length: 8 hours
Child Prices:
a 25% discount will apply to children under the age of 16 at time of travel. (Optionals for North American tours are already discounted.)
Departure Dates
January- December
PRICES
From approx $2,895 US per person double
occupancy
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Day 4 RIO DE JANEIRO AT LEISURE