Wines & Wonders of South America

Fly to Santiago, Chile's capital. Upon arrival you will be met and transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to relax or begin exploring.

Surrounded by mountains, Santiago is a modern, buzzing city but there is still plenty of history and culture to explore. Head out on a walking tour that includes exploring the Plaza de Armas with its impressive 18th-century cathedral and 19th-century post office and ascending Santa Lucia Hill for wonderful views over the city to, if the weather allows, the peaks beyond. (B/D)

Take a day trip to the coast, visiting the port city of Valaparaiso to wander its UNESCO listed hilltop cerros (neighbourhoods) and soak up their colourful charms. Pay a visit to the La Sebastiana Museum before heading on to the Casablanca Valley. Here, in one of Chile's premier wine regions, you'll visit a winery where you'll be served an indulgent lunch and enjoy a tasting session amid the vineyards. (B/L)

Board a flight that takes you over the Andes and into Argentina, arriving in the city of Mendoza. The centre of Argentina's wine industry, this laid-back city is set in wonderfully picturesque landscapes and is packed with culture. (B)

Enjoy a walking tour of this vibrant city this morning, wandering the wide, leafy boulevards, airy squares and soaking up the relaxed vibe. This afternoon is at leisure; we highly recommend that you find a peaceful spot to sit outside and try some malbec, the wine for which this region is best known. (B/D)

Head into the world-renowned Maipu Valley, the heart of Argentina's oldest and most important wine region. As well as admiring the scenic panoramas of vineyards backed by snowcapped peaks, you'll have plenty of opportunity to tour wineries and savour fine wines, including that signature malbec, accompanied by a delicious lunch. (B/L)

Take a morning flight to Buenos Aires, Argentina's lively and flamboyant capital, known for its rich culture, tango rhythms and grand European-inspired architecture. Take the afternoon to start immersing yourself in the city's vibrant energy. (B)

Spend the day strolling through Buenos Aires' neighbourhoods, discovering the unique personality of each, including colourful La Boca, stately Recoleta and culture-filled San Telmo. Then, a true Argentine experience, a night of tango, featuring delicious local food and an electrifying tango performance. (B/L/D)

Today, find yourself on the vast, fertile grasslands known as the pampas, to spend time on a traditional estancia (ranch) and get an authentic taste of life as a gaucho (cowboy), the folk symbol of Argentina. A tasty ‘asado'(BBQ) lunch is included and, in the afternoon, there will be a fun folklore show. (B/L)

Fly to the northeast of Argentina where, on the border with Brazil, you'll find one of nature's finest marvels, the spectacular Iguazu (or Iguacu in Brazil) Falls. (B/D)

The day begins on the Argentine side of the falls. Surrounded by lush rainforest, getting to the viewing platforms is an adventure in itself, with plenty of wildlife to spot as the roar of the water grows ever louder – prepare to be amazed! Later, visit a Mbororé Aldea village, where the community will share their way of life and age-old folk tales with you. (B/L/D)

This morning, cross over the border into Brazil, taking in the falls from a different perspective before boarding a flight to Rio de Janeiro. You'll arrive in the ‘Cidade Maravilhosa' just in time to watch the sunset over the famous Copacabana Beach. (B)

Today you'll explore one of the most spectacular cities in the world. Starting the day at the base of the Corcovado Mountain, you'll ascend by cog railway to stand with the iconic statue of Christ the Redeemer to overlook the city. After lunch, tour the city ending with a ride on a cable car up Sugarloaf Mountain, for even more magnificent views over the beaches, bays, and hills of Rio. (B/L/D)

Transfer to the airport for your flight home, arriving two days later. (B)