Welcome to spectacular Rio de Janeiro, home to white-sand beaches and host to the Summer Olympics in 2016! Upon arrival, you will be greeted by our local representative and transferred to your hotel. After check-in, settle into your hotel and later do some free time exploration.
Sprawling between majestic granite peaks and the blue South Atlantic, Rio is a city of beauty, wonder, and energy. Sightseeing begins with a drive along Rio’s famed Leblon, Ipanema, and Copacabana Beaches. Take the cog railway 2,300 feet up to the summit of CORCOVADO to view the famous Christ the Redeemer statue and enjoy 360-degree views of Guanabara Bay and the bustling city below. Your afternoon is free to explore—perhaps join an optional excursion to a nearby favela for a glimpse into the life of these colourful communities that nearly 25% of the people call home. Tonight, dinner at a famous local churrascaria, serving prime meats, seafood, and fish.
A free day in Rio allows you to relax on one of the famous beaches or take an optional excursion to the historic city of Petropolis to see the former summer palace of Emperor Pedro II. Tonight, opt for a fun outing to see a vibrant Samba show, an extravaganza of costumes, dancers, and the hot beat of the Brazilian Samba rhythm, featuring more than a hundred artists.
A morning flight takes you to Iguassu Falls, one of the greatest natural wonders of the world. Upon arrival, journey to the Brazilian side of the FALLS to see the mammoth series of 275 waterfalls cascading over a precipice almost two miles wide and 250 feet deep. Walk into Devil’s Throat Canyon, where the clouds of mist, thundering roar, and 180-degree rainbows surround you—an unforgettable experience!
Cross the border for a visit of the Argentine side of the FALLS. Begin with a short ride on the open-air ECOLOGICAL JUNGLE TRAIN through the rainforest. A series of boardwalks takes you above the falls to see the water crashing down into the Devil’s Throat. Your afternoon is free to explore, or you may opt to visit the Bird Park, home to many species of indigenous birds as well as flora from the area.
Transfer to the airport for your flight to Buenos Aires, Argentina’s cosmopolitan capital. After settling into your hotel, an orientation tour familiarizes you with the “Paris of South America” and its wide boulevards, outdoor cafés, and charming shops.
Morning sightseeing with a Local Guide focuses on the city’s landmarks, including the Colon Opera House and Plaza de Mayo, the site of La Casa Rosada (the President's Pink House) and the Metropolitan Cathedral. Also visit San Telmo, one of Buenos Aires’ oldest neighbourhoods, and RECOLETA CEMETERY, where Eva Peron is buried. End your day with an Argentinean meal, followed by a sensuous TANGO SHOW highlighting the alluring dance that is so popular here.
Today is free for independent activities, or you can Visit Rosario, Santa Fe where the Greatest Footballer of All Time was Born.
After breakfast, depart for the airport and your return flight home, with fond and magical memories of your holiday.