The Best of Brazil & Argentina with Santiago

Welcome to Santiago, where you will be met by a Cosmos representative. With a coastline more than 2,650 miles long, Chile is more than 10 times longer than it is wide. With a distinctly European flavor accented with Latin flair, Santiago is one of South America's most sophisticated and modern cities.

Please note: You will meet your Tour Director in Rio de Janeiro.

Step back into the 16th century as your Local Guide traces the city's history and heritage. Your guided city tour introduces you to Santiago-the country's political, commercial, and cultural capital. View La Moneda Government Palace before visiting the Plaza de Armas, the main square, with a visit to the 18th Century Cathedral. This afternoon and evening are at your leisure.

Today, Fly to Rio de Janeiro, home to white-sand beaches and world-famous Carnival! Relax this afternoon in spectacular Rio.

Today, meet your Tour Director, who will have pointers for your free time exploration.

Sprawling between majestic granite peaks and the blue South Atlantic, Rio is a city of beauty, wonder, and energy. Guided sightseeing with a Local Guide begins with a drive along Rio's famed Leblon, Ipanema, and more. Take the cog railway 2,300 feet up to the summit of Corcovada to view the famous Christ the Redeemer statue and enjoy 360-degree views of Guanabara Bay and the bustling city below. The famed statue was completed in 1931 becoming emblematic for both the city and the Brazilian nation as a whole. Your afternoon is free to explore the city on your own.

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.

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 Brazilian border by motorcoach and visit the Argentine side of Iguassu 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. Return to Brazil's side of Iguassu Falls for free time, or you may opt to visit the Bird Park, home to many species of endemic birds, as well as flora from the area.

This morning, cross the Brazilian border into Argentina by motorcoach to transfer to the Cataratas del Iguazu International Airport for your flight to Buenos Aires, Argentina's cosmopolitan capital. After settling into your hotel, you may wish to familiarize yourself 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 Teatro Colón Opera House and Plaza de Mayo, site of La Casa Rosada (the President's Pink House), and Metropolitan Cathedral. Also, visit La Boca and San Telmo, one of Buenos Aires' oldest neighborhoods, and Recoleta Cemetery, where Eva Perón is buried.

Tonight, your evening is free. You may wish to explore one of the many vibrant restaurants or join an optional excursion for an Argentinean meal and sensuous Tango show highlighting the alluring dance that is so popular here.

Today is free for independent activities, or you can take an optional excursion to visit a local estancia (ranch) to experience the life of the gauchos (cowboys), as well as traditional dance performances and a barbecue lunch.

Your holiday ends with breakfast this morning.