Essence of South America

Day 1  Rio de Janeiro, Brazil    
Arrive in Rio de Janeiro and transfer to your hotel. Join your fellow travellers for a welcome cocktail reception and dinner.                          

Day 2  Rio de Janeiro                
Take to the skies in Rio this morning on a a two-stage cable car ride to the summit of Sugarloaf Mountain, where dramatic views of the surrounding landscape stuns at every angle and a bird's eye view provides you with an incredible vantage point above Guanabara Bay and the city at large. Next, head back down to ground level for a a private boat cruise on Guanabara Bay. Enjoy seaside glimpses of beautiful beaches, historic forts, a modern museum, outlying islands and the city skyline. Feast on a typical churrascaria barbecue lunch before returning to Rio. The rest of the day is at your leisure.  

Day 3  Rio de Janeiro                
Arise in amazing Rio for an unforgettable excursion up Corcovado Hill by train to Tijuca National Park to see the world-famous statue of Christ the Redeemer. Enjoy a walking tour of Rio's historic downtown, including the Cathedral and other Belle Époque landmarks. Then discover the passionate nature of Rio's beloved Carnaval celebration, which draws visitors from around the world each year, on a visit to Samba City. A local guide leads you on a behind-the-scenes look at the business of Carnaval and the creation of its dazzling costumes and floats, which includes an exclusive samba performance. Have lunch at a local restaurant before returning to the hotel to spend the afternoon as you please. Dinner tonight is at a renowned local restaurant.  

Day 4  Rio de Janeiro to Iguazú Falls                  
Taller than Niagara Falls and twice as wide, Iguazú Falls is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the 'New Seven Wonders of Nature'. Experience the falls on the Brazilian side with your local guide.              

Day 5  Iguazú Falls                    
Immerse in the natural splendors of the park with a choice of excursions today. Board a helicopter for a flightseeing ride over the falls or drive into the jungle for a jet boat ride at the base of the falls. You will have the afternoon at leisure and after, you will be treated to a private tasting dinner.      

Day 6  Iguazú Falls to Buenos Aires, Argentina        
Drive across the Tancredo Neves Bridge into neighbouring Argentina and experience the falls from a different perspective. Take a walk to Devil's Throat for stunning views. After lunch, take a flight to Buenos Aires.          

Day 7  Buenos Aires                
Join a local guide for a city tour around Buenos Aires. You will take in many of the cities finest attractions and dive deep into its fascinating history. This evening, experience the infamous tango after enjoying dinner.        

Day 8  Buenos Aires                  
Experience time-honoured Argentine traditions today as you venture out to the countryside to the artist community of San Antonio de Areco for a very special visit with one of the most famous silversmiths in the country. Continue to a ranch for lunch and a fascinating gaucho demonstration with a horse whisperer. Your evening is free to enjoy Buenos Aires.    

Day 9  Buenos Aires                      
A further day of exploration in this fascinating city. Visit the historic Teatro Colón, the Buenos Aires opera house which opened in 1908. The rest of the day is at your leisure.                

Day 10  Buenos Aires to Santiago, Chile        
Take a morning flight to Santiago and enjoy lunch in a local restaurant there. Drive south on the Pan-American Highway to the Millahue Valley in the heart of Chile's famous winelands.  

Day 11  Millahue Valley              
Immerse in the beauty of wine country today and choose how you wish to spend your morning. Saddle up for a guided horseback ride through the vineyards or choose to bike instead. If you fancy an indoor activity then be sure to try out the cooking class or a wine and chocolate pairing at the hotel. Everyone will meet up for a wine pairing lunch before a tasting tour later.                  

Day 12  Millahue Valley to Santiago                    
Drive to Santiago this morning for a city tour and lunch at the Ritz-Carlton. Then jump in your transfer to the airport for your journey home.