Latin Rendezvous

Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is at your leisure to explore this cosmopolitan city. The 'Paris of the Americas' and the birthplace of tango, Buenos Aires is a city of contrasts. The glamour and elegance of its European roots are interwoven with its undeniable Latin American essence.

Discover this unique city with its mix of colonial architecture and European influences, on a city tour that portrays the many faces of Buenos Aires. During this tour you will be able to see the Obelisk, a national historical monument and symbol of the city, as well as Plaza de Mayo, Plaza San Martín and Plaza Alvear. You will visit part of the 9 de Julio, one of Buenos Aires’ famous wide avenues, from which the Teatro Colón can be seen. You will then visit the financial and political area, Plaza De Mayo and Casa Rosada. Continue to the historic bohemian neighbourhood of La Boca, with its colourful buildings, cobbled streets and street performers practicing tango, and charming San Telmo, the oldest neighbourhood in Buenos Aires, known for its antiques market every Sunday. You will pass through the modern neighbourhood of Puerto Madero before continuing towards the magnificent Palermo and Recoleta, known for its impressive architecture, beautiful parks, and the famous Recoleta Cemetery. (B)

Embark on a culinary adventure through Palermo's bustling streets, discovering the history of the oldest and now trendiest neighbourhood in the city. Enjoy its street art, architecture, boutiques, and vibrant atmosphere, while tasting its finest food. Sample a variety of traditional dishes that epitomise Argentine flavours and learn about life in the vibrant capital. 

Starting at a hole-in-the-wall "rotiseria" or deli with an industrial vibe, this retro-inspired spot boasts a mouth-watering menu and chill atmosphere. Here you indulge in a vermouth with some tasty snacks – all local favourites. A Buenos Aires food tour wouldn't be complete without sampling the local wine. Your second stop is a renowned restaurant and wine bar where you'll savour the famed Argentine Malbec alongside some of the best Argentine steak. You'll also have the chance to explore lesser known but equally captivating regional wine varieties.

The next stop is an iconic "bodegon" a general store that houses a tavern. This bustling neighbourhood classic is beloved by locals for its
elevated take on home cooking. Skip the line and dive straight into a variety of traditional dishes, including sirloin or chicken milanesa, paired with more wine. This neighbourhood gem has earned recognition in the Michelin guide and has won an award as one of the Worlds 50 Best Restaurants. To end the day on a sweet note, you'll indulge in the quintessential Argentine dessert featuring the traditional dulce de leche.

In Argentine culture, history, and artistic expression, tango is an integral part of the country's identity. This evening, learn the dance of romance with a tango show and delicious dinner at La Ventana. Located in the heart of San Telmo, this restored tenement is a classic of Buenos Aires culture. The tango show traces the history of the dance from its birth in the red light districts. The sensuality underlying the choreography combines in a vivid tribute to tango. The classic orchestras revive the original styles with melancholic rhythms and the impressive words, showing the most authentic poetry of the city, are interpreted by outstanding singers. You’ll also discover the diverse cultural heritage of Argentina with folkloric performances incorporating other forms of traditional Argentine music and dance including an insight into gaucho culture through their music and a demonstration of their boleadoras skills. (B, L, D)

Fly to Iguazu Falls where you will spend the next two nights in your hotel located on the Argentinian side of the falls. Comprising more than 275 waterfalls, stretching over three kilometres across and towering 100 metres high, Iguazu Falls is one of the great natural wonders of the world. Meeting at the borders of Argentina, Brazil and Paraguay the falls are enclosed by Iguazu Falls National Park which covers a large area of tropical rainforest and is home to some of South America’s most iconic wildlife. (B)

Explore the Argentine side of Iguazu Falls. Wander through the rainforest, marvelling at the huge variety of ferns, orchids, begonias, birds and butterflies seen while walking along the pathways. Head to Estacion Central, where you will board the train to Devil’s Throat station. Walk along the 1200m trail, to the most spectacular fall, Devil’s Throat. Spend the rest of the day exploring the numerous hiking trails and majestic waterfalls. (B)

Depart your hotel in Iguazu and cross the international bridge that joins the cities of Puerto Iguazu (Argentina) and Foz do Iguazu (Brazil) to visit the Brazilian side of Iguazu Falls. Navigate the trails over the Iguazu River for amazing views back over to the Argentine side of the falls. The scenery is breathtaking, only enhanced by the colourful rainbows that cover the area. Continue to the airport for your onward flight to Rio de Janeiro. On arrival in Rio, you will be met and transferred to your hotel, your home for the next three nights. (B)

Explore Rio’s wonders in an open jeep and immerse yourself in this magnificent city, visiting Tijuca Forest, Corcovado, Sugar Loaf and the Botanic Gardens. Discover Tijuca Forest, known as the world’s largest urban forest, with its mix of nature and history. Ride to the top of the beautiful Corcovado Mountain, where the statue of Christ the Redeemer sits.

Visit the world famous Sugar Loaf Mountain in the middle of Guanabara Bay, which offers one of the most breathtaking views of the city. The tour finishes with a visit to the Botanical Gardens. Founded by Dom Joao VI in 1808 as an Acclimation Garden for exotic plants, it was transformed over nearly two centuries into the Research Institute of the Botanic Garden of Rio de Janeiro and now contains more than 6,000 different species of tropical and subtropical plants and trees. (B, L)

No other festivity is more “Brazilian” than the Carnival, and there is nothing more authentic than the samba schools. Although the famous Carnival Parade happens only once a year, the ongoing work backstage happens every day. Today you’ll go to the Cidade do Samba and visit the Academicos do Grande Rio warehouse, seeing the Carnival costumes, allegories, and curiosities. Feel the spirit of Carnival as your guide leads you on a tour of the warehouse, teaching you about the history of the Samba and the Carnival Parade. After seeing so many carnival costumes, you may even have a chance to try one on. Conclude with a traditional Caipirinha toast to celebrate in true Carnival style. 

For your last evening in the city, there is no other place in Rio that embodies the happiness of the Brazilian people more than the nightlife scene in the neighbourhood of Lapa. Once the sun goes down, this normally quiet neighbourhood turns into a bustling and vibrant area full of restaurants, nightclubs and bars. Visit one of the best clubs in Lapa, Rio Scenarium, a unique bar that is a mix between an antique shop and an auction room, where the locals come to listen to traditional Brazilian jazz and samba the night away. (B)

Transfer to the airport for your onward flight. (B)