This was a fantastic trip that lived up fully to its billing, as we saw many spectacular and varied landscapes and we sampled many gorgeous wines. The guide Lucia was very knowledgeable and helpful throughout. My only observation is that it was a hard trip in terms of several very long days travelling of 8 or more hours - over 12 hours on one day - which meant we rarely had the chance to relax and/or enjoy the hotel facilities (e.g. pools in most hotels).
The Trip Notes highlighted this but even so, after more than a dozen Explore trips previously which we thought prepared us for a lot of time on the road , we were still surprised. Essentially the trip was 12 full days and we thought it could have been stretched to 14 to cover the same itinerary - maybe an extra day in Cafayate and in Cachi?
Why for example, did we travel from Mendoza to Aconcagua (a brilliant trip) but then back to Mendoza (3 hours each way) on one day, only to retrace our steps almost all the way back to Aconcagua on the next day, on the way to the next stop? This retracing of the same route wasted 6 hours, or almost a full day? Why did we not go from Aconcagua directly to the next stop, instead of back to Mendoza?
In summary, this is a great tour, but we recommend you review the itinerary and through better planning and some extra time make it a more relaxing tour spread over over one or two more days.
Soak up the warmth and charm of Chile, Argentina and Brazil on a 15-day Premium adventure. Pick up the tempo in artistic Santiago, travel through colourful Valparaiso, cross into Mendoza - the home of Argentinian Malbec, then get swept up in the tantalising mix of European and Latin flair in Buenos Aires. At the border with Brazil, experience the magnificent might of Iguazu Falls, before finally arriving in one of the most beautiful cities in the world, Rio de Janeiro. Travel with passionate local leaders who will reveal the sights, sounds and tastes of their homelands.
Experience the diversity of wonders across Peru, Chile, Argentina and Brazil on a 24-day Premium journey. Be immersed in the ancient culture of the Incas, visit the Amazon Jungle and revel in the magnificent citadel ruins of Machu Picchu. Soak up the energy of Santiago and Buenos Aires’ lively neighbourhoods and sip some of the world’s best wine in Mendoza. At the border with Brazil, experience the magnificent might of Iguazu Falls, before finally arriving in one of the most beautiful cities in the world, Rio de Janeiro. With the guidance of passionate local leaders, you’ll find out South America dances to the beat of its own drum.
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Lodge, Resort
Age Range
15-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Rio de Janeiro, Lima, Santiago
Rio de Janeiro, Lima, Santiago, Valparaiso, Mendoza, Buenos Aires, Puerto Maldonado, Puerto Iguazu, Amazon Lodge Tambopata, Cusco, Ollantaytambo, Machu Picchu
Against the magnificent backdrop of the Andes Mountains, journey from Santiago to Buenos Aires, taking in all the history, culture and cuisine in between. This nine-day Premium adventure will show you the heart of Chile and Argentina as you stroll the streets of Santiago with a local guide and sip piscos on a rooftop in the historic centre of Valparaiso. Sample some of the world’s best wine in Mendoza, stroll the stylish neighbourhoods of Buenos Aires and discover El Tigre Delta for an adventure to remember. Packed with Exclusive Experiences, historical Feature Stays and with a local leader by your side, you’ll fall for the vibrancy and indulgent atmosphere of this part of the world in no time.