South America Samba

Golden swathes of famous coastline, tropical landscapes, and a certain joie de vivre will welcome you to one of the world’s most vibrant cities, Rio de Janeiro. Energy pulses through every pore of this passionate and fun-loving city, flooding from the favelas to the football fields and culminating in nightly parties where the caipirinhas are free-flowing and the samba rhythm is infectious. Rio may be best known for its annual Carnival, but visiting here you’ll realise that every day is cause for celebration. Settle into your hotel before meeting up with your Travel Director this afternoon. Then perhaps hit the sands of Copacabana to watch the sun set whilst you sip your first cachaça.

Start your day in Rio’s charming Cosme Velho district, where you’ll hop on a historic cogwheel train and wind your way through the lush Tijuca Forest. At the top of Mount Corcovado, take in the awe-inspiring 30-meter Christ the Redeemer, an icon of Rio and one of the New 7 Wonders of the World. After soaking in panoramic views of the “Marvelous City,” it's time to hit Rio's famous beaches—Copacabana and Ipanema. This evening, savor the flavors of South America at Carretão Ipanema Churrascaria, a traditional Brazilian rotisserie inspired by the centuries-old fireside roasts of the gauchos.

Waking up to your final full day in Rio, today is free to explore your way. For those keen to get a closer look, you could also opt for a half day city tour of Rio which includes ascending the Sugarloaf Mountain by cable car for absolutely stand out views of Guanabara Bay.

Leaving the colorful costumes and infectious rhythms of Rio behind, this morning you’ll head to the airport to catch your flight to Iguassu Falls. Words can’t really describe the magnificence of the world’s largest series of waterfalls (275 to be exact), which straddle the border between Argentina and Brazil and are surrounded by lush expanses of national park. Settle in to your hotel this afternoon and spend the evening relaxing, no doubt bubbling with excitement for the natural spectacle that tomorrow will bring.

Pack your raincoat and your sense of adventure this morning as you’re off to visit the Iguassu National Park, entering on the Brazilian side of the falls. You’ll be venturing down to the ominously named and utterly exhilarating Devil’s Throat, the tallest and most impressive of Iguassu’s waterfalls. Remember that raincoat? Now’s the time to use it! This afternoon keep the adrenalin levels high on a choice optional experience where you'll take an open-air tram through the jungle to the Macuco Falls, and then board a custom designed inflatable motorboat for a high intensity ride to the base of the falls. If keeping things a little more relaxed is more your style, opt to visit a bird park on a Make Travel Matter® Experience where you can spot more than 150 different species of birds.

Today, you'll be hopping from Brazil to Argentina, crossing the Fraternity Bridge into the lush Argentinian Iguassu National Park. As you pass through customs, you'll collect another passport stamp before driving through the wildlife-rich jungle to the falls. The Argentinian side offers equally impressive views, giving you a fresh perspective on this natural wonder. Hop aboard the open-sided Ecological Jungle Train, a peaceful and scenic ride that takes you to Devil’s Throat for another jaw-dropping encounter with the falls. After soaking up the sights and sounds of Iguassu one last time, it’s off to the airport for your flight to Buenos Aires—a city bursting with passion, European flair, and irresistible energy.

Waking up in the vibrant city of Buenos Aires is sure to excite. This tango-loving, meat-obsessed capital blends European charm with urban edge, where street art adds color to every corner. Start your day with a sightseeing tour, taking in 9 de Julio Avenue—the widest in the world—along with the stunning Colon Theater, Plaza de Mayo, the Metropolitan Cathedral and the historic district of San Telmo. End your tour in the colorful streets of La Boca, where you'll have free time to explore this renowned neighborhood at your own pace.

Make the most of your free day in Buenos Aires with a variety of exciting Choice Experiences. You can choose to head into the pampas to visit a working ranch and immerse yourself in gaucho culture, enjoying folk music, traditional dances, and a delicious barbecue lunch. Prefer a laid-back vibe? Choose to explore the scenic Tigre Delta countryside. For a cultural twist, visit "El Querandi" for a wine tasting or join an Argentinean Culinary Experience to make empanadas and savor local steak. And, of course, you can always choose to embrace the spirit of Buenos Aires with a tango lesson!

Two countries, one New Wonder of the World and countless memories later, your adventure wraps up today. Say goodbye to new friends as you head to the airport. Or, if you’re not ready to leave Buenos Aires’ charm behind, why not extend your trip and stay a bit longer?