Overview
With time in Rio de Janeiro, Buenos Aires, and Santiago, this sultry tour of South America combines the best of Brazil, Argentina, and Chile, plus the opportunity to witness the read more thundering Iguassu Falls from the perspective of both countries. Guided sightseeing to the legendary sights is complemented by numerous opportunities to live like a local. This South America getaway includes an empanada cooking class, a private tango lesson, and a day on an authentic Argentine ranch where you can enjoy authentic cuisine, tap your foot to regional music, and even take the reins of a horse and channel your inner gaucho.
Skip and sip your way through more storied scenery with time in Santiago – Chile’s European-influenced capital between the Pacific Ocean and the Andes. Your local guide will show you how to drink in the culture, heritage, and legendary wines of this modern and sophisticated city. Leave no stone uncovered on the hunt for archaeological treasures on the world’s most isolated inhabited island. Home to the world’s largest open-air museum and nearly 1,000 mysterious Moai statues, Chile’s Easter Island is an intriguing extension to your South America vacation.
Itinerary
Welcome to Rio de Janeiro!
At 3:30 pm, meet your Tour Director for a drive along Ipanema and Copacabana beaches to the base of 1,300-foot-high Sugarloaf Mountain. Ascend by cable car to its summit, where you can take in spectacular vistas of the city. Next, toast the start of a memorable vacation with caipirinhas, a traditional Brazilian cocktail, during a cocktail party.
LOCAL FAVORITE - LOCAL TASTES: A once-in-a-lifetime experience awaits atop Sugarloaf Mountain overlooking Guanabara Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. Take in the breathtaking panoramic views followed by a private cocktail party with your fellow travel companions. Toast with a traditional caipirinha, Brazil's national cocktail, made with fresh lime, cachaça, and sugar. Deliciosa!
Heavenly Views
The city's landmark, the statue of Christ the Redeemer, crowns Corcovado Mountain, a rounded peak rising 2,300 feet from the bay below. A scenic ride by cog railway leads to the top, where a breathtaking 360-degree panorama affords sweeping views. From here, proceed to bustling downtown Rio, where modern office towers stand next to relics of the Portuguese colonial past. View the Sambodromo and visit the Cathedral.
The afternoon is at leisure for you to experience this vibrant city on your own. Tonight, it's a fun outing to a churrascaria for a feast of barbecued meats marinated and roasted over charcoal in true Brazilian style. (B/D)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - EPIC RIDE: Soar to the summit of Corcovado Mountain by cog railway to reach the site of the iconic statue of Christ the Redeemer. This crowning jewel of Rio and Brazil was constructed between 1922 and 1933. The statue of Jesus Christ stands 98 feet high (or 124 feet including the pedestal) with an arm span of 92 feet wide. Towering over the city, this piece of art is truly an engineering marvel and was even voted one the New7Wonders of the World.
Unplug & Recharge
A full day at leisure to enjoy Rio. Relax on one of the world-famous beaches or take advantage of the world-class shopping or fine dining. (B)
FREE TIME TIPS - EXPLORE MORE: Spend free time in Rio de Janeiro with an optional excursion to Petropolis, (mountain resort and former summer palace of Emperor Dom Pedro II). Get local maps and tips for free time on your GlobusGO mobile app.
What a Rush!
A flight from Rio takes you to Iguassu Falls. Experience the clouds of spray, the incessant roar, and the surrounding luxuriant tropical growth that make this an unforgettable natural wonder. Head into Brazil's Iguassu National Park to enjoy the magnificent panorama of waterfalls from the Brazilian side. Your Local Guide introduces the spectacle of this 2-mile-wide rushing torrent. With some cataracts as high as 250 feet, Iguassu Falls is nothing short of hypnotic! (B/D)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - PICTURE PERFECT: Explore incredible Iguassu National Park (Brazilian side) and walk the pathways skirting Iguassu Falls. Watch for amazing wildlife in this protected area, including toucans, agoutis, giant otters, anteaters, tapir, and even jaguars!
Taking the Plunge
Today, journey across the Brazilian border by motorcoach to the Argentine side of Iguassu Falls, where you will enjoy a closer perspective on a walking tour of the falls. Meander along the walkways from atop the falls and enjoy an exhilarating view looking over the precipice of the falls as the water plunges to the rocks below. You will also have the chance to walk through the rainforest on the lower falls trails that will bring you up close to some of the smaller cataracts. Return to the hotel, where the remainder of the day is at your leisure. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - NATURAL WONDERS: Visit Iguassu National Park (Argentinian side) where, from this side of the falls, you get a bird's-eye view from the catwalks perched over part of the Devil's Throat, where 14 waterfalls drop more than 300 feet into the Devil's Gorge below. From this completely different perspective compared to Brazil's side, you'll understand why you must see both sides of the falls!
The Boulevards of Buenos Aires
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. After arriving, acquaint yourself with the “Paris of South America” and its wide boulevards and outdoor cafés. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - CITY SIGHTS: Elegant European architecture, epicurean cuisine, and a café culture to rival any rue de Paris, Buenos Aires is a city of leisurely afternoons sipping café con leche or the choicest Argentinian wines.
Dining, Dancing, Dazzling
Your sightseeing starts in La Boca, a vibrant district and site of the city's first port. Take a short walking tour of this unique enclave and then on to San Telmo, famous for its late-colonial buildings and a popular gathering spot for artists. At Plaza de Mayo, see La Casa Rosada (the President's Pink House) and the Metropolitan Cathedral, housing San Martin's Mausoleum. Drive past the ornate Teatro Colón opera house before reaching Recoleta Cemetery, burial site of Eva Perón. Next, learn how to make a traditional Argentinean dish with an empanada cooking class.
After an afternoon at leisure, top off the evening at a famous Tango club. The Tango and Argentina go hand in hand and tonight you will visit a local milonga (tango house), where professional tango dancers teach the traditional techniques of the Argentine Tango. After your lesson, enjoy a farewell dinner featuring Argentine steaks and other local specialties. Top off the evening when the professionals delight you with a Tango Show featuring the dance as it has evolved through the ages! (B/D)
LOCAL FAVORITE - LOCAL TASTES: Immerse yourself in Argentina's culinary culture when you learn how to make empanadas. This hands-on cooking class teaches you the different fillings and the various ‘repulga' techniques (how to close the empanada.) After perfecting your creation, enjoy your homemade empanada with a glass of Malbec wine.
Ranch Life
Today, head into the heart of the pampas (grasslands) and immerse yourself in the atmosphere of rural, country life at a working Argentina estancia (ranch). After a traditional welcome with empanadas and local beverages, get acquainted with the lifestyle of real gauchos (cowboys) on a carriage ride through the pampas.
Later, at lunch, enjoy an authentic feast, complete with world-renowned Argentine beef, salad, desserts, and live music and dance by the gauchos themselves. Top off the day with an equestrian demonstration by the gauchos before saying ‘adios' to the countryside and heading back to the city. (B/L)
LOCAL FAVORITE - CULTURE & TRADITION: Argentinean estancias date back to the 16th century during the era of Spanish colonization when conquistadors where gifted land to raise and breed cattle. Today, these lands and traditions endure, having been passed down from generation to generation. Step into the traditional, local life of a gaucho and embrace Argentinian heritage on a working estancia.
Welcome to Santiago!
Fly over the Andes to Santiago, Chile's capital, where you will be met at the airport by a Globus representative. Tonight, dinner is included. (B/D)
Please note: your Tour Director does not accompany you to Santiago.TOUR HIGHLIGHT - EPIC ADVENTURE: More than 10 times longer than it is wide, Chile boasts 2,650 miles of pristine Pacific coastline. Add a rich history and resplendent vineyards, and you're sure to be awed with the bold culture and beautiful landscapes of Chile.
Old Meets New
Step back into the 16th century as your Local Guide traces the city's history and heritage. Start at La Moneda, the official Government Palace, before visiting the Plaza de Armas, with a visit to the 18th-century cathedral. The afternoon and evening are at your leisure. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - HISTORIC SPOT: Santiago's Plaza de Armas (square of weapons) dates back 100s of years to the conquistador era as cultural and defensive plaza. Today, the cultural and historic heart of Santiago bustles with entertainers and vendors. Enter the magnificent Baroque-style Metropolitan Cathedral to see stunning frescoes, chandeliers, and gilded columns above the intricate black and white tiles on the expansive floors.
Island Intrigue
Fly from Santiago to Easter Island, considered the world's largest open-air museum, boasting over 400 moai, ruins, and temples. (B)
Please note: the Tour Director does not accompany guests on extensions. Guided service is as outlined in the day by day itinerary.TOUR HIGHLIGHT - HISTORY & MYSTERY: Check off this bucket list destination when you travel to the most remote island in the world. Located 2,200 miles off the coast of Chile, this island is a territory of Chile but, feels more like Polynesia. At the time of the arrival of the Europeans in the 18th Century, the island had been completely decimated of all resources, the population was no larger than 700 people, the now famous moai toppled, and history forgotten. Many mysteries endure around the island's history.
Curious Quarries
Your first stop on your private tour will be Ahu Vaihu, where eight large moai lie in ruins. Continue on to Ahu Akahanga. According to legend, this is the burial site of the first king of Easter Island (Hotu Matu'a).
Next, at the Rano Raraku quarry, you'll find 394 statues in various stages of completion. It appears that the moai production was abruptly abandoned, leaving us a frozen snapshot that reveals how the moai were carved out of volcanic rocks. At Ahu Tongariki, see 15 beautifully restored moai, and at Ahu Te Pito Kura, see the largest moai ever transported and erected. Last stop is the beach of Anakena, where King Hotu Matu'a first landed on Rapa Nui. (B/L)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - LEGENDS & LORE: Over 600 massive volcanic rock sculptures pepper the island, with many dating back to 700 AD. Each of these structures, some close to 40 feet tall and 80 tons, were carved from one single rock. If an imperfection was found, it was abandoned. It remains an enigma how these massive moai were transported from there quarries. Now you get the opportunity to stand next to one and come up with your own theory!
Cauldrons & Cryptic Carvings
This morning, your private tour visits the Rano Kau Volcano, with a caldera that contains one of the island's freshwater lakes. At the nearby ceremonial village of Orongo, see the restored houses and remains of an ancient Ahu. Head to Ana Kai Tagata, an ancient cave with wall paintings on the rock.
This afternoon, visit Ahu Akivi, with seven restored moais in the middle of the island. According to legend, the statues represent the seven scouts sent to Easter Island by King Hotu Matu'a. Finally, visit the Puna Pau topknot quarry with its red scoria stone, where the Pukaos on top of the moai were made. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - HISTORIC SPOT: Hear the legend of The Birdman Competition on an excursion to the sacred site of Orongo, where an ancient competition began at the sacred site of Orongo and was used to determine the Birdman, a sacred position, for the year. The challenge required contestants (appointed by a sponsor) to descend the steep cliffs from Orongo, swim offshore to an islet, and wait for the first tern egg of the season, and then return it safely to their sponsor at Orongo. Upon delivery of the egg, the sponsor became a leader of the island for the year.
Hasta Luego, Chile!
Return to Santiago for a final night in Chile (B)
FREE TIME TIPS - EXPLORE MORE: Upon your arrival back to Santiago, you may enjoy a night of relaxation or a night on the town where the city lights up with a vibrant nightlife. Ask your Tour Director for suggestions or refer to your GlobusGO mobile app for maps and tips.
Safe travels until we meet again!
Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B)
Trip Inclusions
- We've packed everything you need for the perfect vacation—from hand-selected hotels and dining to the friendly expertise of Globus Tour Directors and Local Guides, to seamless transportation between destinations and VIP access to the world's most iconic sites!
- Breakfast daily, 2 lunches, 4 dinners
- Rio de Janeiro: Sheraton Grand Rio Hotel and Resort (Deluxe):
Beautifully situated along the well-known Ipanema Beach, this contemporary hotel boasts gorgeous views and extreme comfort. All 559 guestrooms are equipped with the signature Sheraton Sweet Sleeper bed, private balcony overlooking the sea, mini-bar, cable television, air-conditioning, and room service. The facilities include a swimming pool, tennis courts, beauty salon, fitness center, sauna, business center, three restaurants, and two bars. - Iguassu Falls: Bourbon Cataratas Hotel (First-Class):
The Bourbon Cataratas Resort Hotel, is strategically located near the main tourist sites of Iguassu. Exclusive and professional staff take care of every detail. - Buenos Aires: Hotel Alvear ICON (Superior First-Class):
Situated in Puerto Madero, the city's most eclectic district, take in the breathtaking views of the city and the River Plate while lodging in opulent and cozy suites, exploring the many eateries and bars, and unwinding in the magnificent Beauty & Wellness Center. The Alvear Icon Hotel is the ideal representation of the vitality and modernity that define Buenos Aires. - Santiago: Sheraton Santiago Hotel & Convention Center (Deluxe):
This contemporary hotel is ideally located within minutes of some of the city's best shopping areas, restaurants, and attractions. The hotel features three Chilean inspired restaurants, two bars, state-of-the-art fitness center, indoor and outdoor pools, beauty salon, tennis court, gift shop, and access to medical services. - Easter Island: Hotel Taha Tai (Moderate First-Class):
This island oasis is ideally located minutes from town and features a fresh ambiance. Each of the 40 rooms is equipped with air-conditioning, direct-dial telephone, and Internet connection. The hotel features a Chilean inspired restaurant and bar, swimming pool, and laundry services.
- Airport transfers at your arrival and departure destination are not included in the price of the tour.
- Itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
- Price is for land, cruise and specified internal flights. International flights not included.
- There is a welcome meeting scheduled on day 1 in Rio de Janeiro at 2 pm. Check-in at the hotel is at 3 pm. Guests will depart the hotel for included sightseeing at 3:30 pm. Please make sure to arrive at the hotel in Rio prior to the meeting.
Globus includes all must-see sites, with special VIP access that lets you skip to the front of the queue. Read more
Globus has the recipe for a great vacation. Savour the flavours of South America through its regional cuisine. Read more
Travel with expert Tour Directors and Local Guides who share their vast knowledge of South America. Read more
Globus' selection of hotels in unforgettable places ensure you stay right in the heart of each destination. Read more
Globus takes care of the components that make your tour unforgettable, so just sit back and relax. Read more
Experience South America like an insider with Local Favourites that you wouldn't find touring on your own. Read more
Trip Reviews (1) Most Recent 'South America Getaway with Santiago & Easter Island' Reviews
Tour group was dominated by USA tourists, including a group of (comped?) travel agents. Grace from GJ did an excellent job with the booking and Globus liaison.
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