12-DAY TASTE OF SOUTH AMERICA

When you arrive in Uruguay, you’ll be greeted and transferred to your hotel in Montevideo.

From: Montevideo Airport
To: Montevideo

You’ll find the SORO Montevideo Hotel within the streets of Pocitos Beach, the coastline Rambla, and eclectic neighbourhood restaurants.

Within one kilometre of the hotel, you can reach the Punta Carretas district and Villa Biarritz – a market full of local vendors. The perks of the hotel include the rooftop whirlpool, indoor-outdoor dining, and a 24-hour fitness centre.

Address: SORO Montevideo, Curio Collection by Hilton, Federico N. Abadie, Montevideo Montevideo Department, Uruguay

This morning, head into Montevideo for a city tour. The main points of interest will be in the historic city centre where you will visit the Plaza de Constitucion with the cathedral and the colonial town hall. Then you will proceed to the Congress Building, Mercado Agricola Montevideo, passing by the Obelisk to Batlle and Ordoñez Park and the Centenario Soccer Stadium where the very first World Cup final was played. Afterwards, visit Pocitos Beach and take a stroll along to Ramirez Beach.

In the morning you’re taken on a comprehensive tour around the city. Your first stop will be the historic centre. You will walk through the old part of the city and to the Constitution Square with the cathedral and colonial town hall.

From here, you walk to the Solis Theatre where Carlos Gardel used to tango in the past. Afterwards, you will head to independence Square where you will see the monument dedicated to the national hero, José Gervasio Artigas and his mausoleum.

Continue to the Uruguayan Congress Building where you’ll tour inside: this huge building is the pride of Uruguay. It was constructed between 1908 and 1925 with local marble consisting of 52 colours and 12 types of wood.

Drive to the recently opened Mercado Agricola Montevideo. The renovated Central Farmers Market is the first retail mall specialising in the sale of non-perishable food and fresh local produce. Passing by the Obelisk, you will continue to Batlle & Ordoñez Park and visit the Centenario Soccer Stadium where
the very first World Cup final was played –and won by Uruguay- in 1930. Soccer and especially the local soccer league is an important part of the Uruguayan culture and your guide will tell you about the impressive history of the Uruguayan soccer team that won the World Cup twice.

Afterwards, you will drive to Pocitos Beach where you will be able to take a stroll along the promenade. Then you will continue along the Rambla to Ramirez Beach and the Parque Rodó. There you will have some time to wander around before it’s time to “do as the locals do”: try some mate and bizcochos on the Rambla – or if it’s too hot, in the shade of the trees of Parque Rodó.

Your last stop will be the famous Mercado del Puerto, the port market of Montevideo where you may want to have lunch with a glass of the famous “medio-medio”, a mix of white wine and sparkling wine, to raise your glass to a fabulous time in Uruguay.

Remark: Visit of the Congress building only possible on weekdays, depending on Parliament activities.

Address: Plaza Independencia, 11100 Montevideo,
Departamento de Montevideo, Uruguay

Uruguay’s capital, Montevideo sits in a bay by the same name and is a very relaxed city for a capital city. Much to the relief of those that visit, Uruguay has somehow remained off the beaten track in South America meaning all of its jewels remain unscathed.

Montevideo’s roads are well-paved, charming and quiet. The boulevards leading to the historic city centre are lined with palm trees and historic buildings, making it look like a scene from Europe. The city itself revolves around the main square, Plaza de la Independencia, which was once home to a Spanish citadel.

From the plaza, you can find your way to the old town with its art deco buildings, colonial houses and classic landmarks like Palacio Salvo and the Solís Theatre.

Address: Montevideo, Montevideo Department, Uruguay

Today, you’ll drive towards Piriapolis, a coastal city located 19 miles from Punta del Este. The city, built during the time of the “belle époque”, has the look of Europe’s Côte d’Azur. You’ll then continue to Punta del Este. The next stops will be at Portezuelo and Punta Ballena for sweeping views up and down the coast). You’ll visit the Museum Casa Pueblo, home and atelier of the famous Uruguayan artist Carlos Paez Vilaro. You’ll return to Montevideo late afternoon.

Today, you’ll drive towards Piriapolis, a coastal city located 19 miles from Punta del Este. The city, built during the time of the “belle époque”, has the look of Europe’s Côte d’Azur. It was the first swimming-resort in Uruguay.

You will visit the “Argentino Hotel” which was built in 1930 and represents the spirit of that glorious era. It was at that time the most luxurious hotel in South America. When you step into the lobby it is like entering a time machine. Everything is still kept as at that time, the furniture and the gorgeous art nouveau details.

You’ll continue to Punta del Este. The next stops will be at Portezuelo and Punta Ballena for sweeping views up and down the coast (great spots for photographers). You’ll visit the Museum Casa Pueblo, home and atelier of the famous Uruguayan artist Carlos Paez Vilaro. The dazzling white
complex, resembling Spanish-Moroccan architecture, is situated on a rocky bluff overlooking the ocean.

Vilaró built it in 1958 with his own hands, using only traditional tools. Narrow steps lead to a maze of rooms scattered on different levels and filled with the artist’s works. You’ll cntinue to see the Residential areas of Punta del Este with its elegant homes and most sophisticated architecture such as San Rafael, Cantegril, Parque Golf and Beverly Hills.

Along the wide variety of fine sandy beaches such as Playa Brava, San Rafael, El Emir, to the downtown area, main Avenue (Avenida Gorlero) and the port.

Address: Punta del Este Maldonado Department, Uruguay

Before Punta del Este made a name for itself as a moonlit seaside resort, Piriápolis was already known as one of the most beautiful holiday destinations on the coast.

Piriápolis owes its name to Francisco Piria, who founded the town in 1893 with the declared intention of creating a tourist resort on the Uruguayan coast.

Today, tourists tend to flock to the famous Punta del Este, so that Piriápolis has become more peaceful. Nevertheless, every summer the place attracts tourists from Argentina, Uruguay and Europe who want to enjoy the 25-kilometre-long beach.

Address: 20200 Piriápolis, Maldonado Department, Uruguay

From: Punta del Este
To: Montevideo

Primuseum is located in an intimate, warm and familiar place, surrounded by articles and antiques that are more than 100 years old.

Primuseum offers during the night a live Tango show with the best artists of Uruguay, accompanied by a comprehensive menu of typical local food, with the pairing of the best Uruguayan wines, including the Tannat.

During the night, Primuseum dresses up offering visitors a unique experience, where gastronomy, culture and Tango are harmoniously combined.

+ optional (not included in price)

Address: Calle Perez Castellano 1389, 11000 Montevideo,
Departamento de Montevideo, Uruguay

Drive to the Estancia Finca Piedra. You will be guided through the Estancia, once one of Uruguay’s top meat producers and go for a horse or carriage ride in the surrounding area. Perhaps, you can learn about mate culture; a social tradition. Afterwards, enjoy a barbecue lunch and visit the animal reserve where local animals like Ñandus, Carpinchos live. Later a “merienda” will be served – comparable to an afternoon coffee with cakes and dulce de leche before you drive to Colonia del Sacramento.

Take a guided tour through the historic Estancia, which once was one of Uruguay’s most important meat producers.

Afterwards, you can either go for a horse ride or a carriage ride through the immediate surroundings of the Estancia.

After the ride – if you like – you will be introduced to the mate culture: already in Montevideo you will have seen many Uruguayos with their mate cup in their hands and their thermos under their arms – drinking mate is a social tradition of the country.

Afterwards, you enjoy a typical barbecue lunch. Then, you can visit the animal reserve of the Estancia where local animals like Ñandus, Carpinchos but also hares, ducks, and peacocks live or simply enjoy the atmosphere of the Estancia and relax a little.

Before you go, a typical “merienda” will be served – comparable to the tradition of afternoon coffee – with homemade cakes and pastries with “dulce de leche” milk caramel.

Address: Finca Piedra – Estancia Turistica, 23, Mal Abrigo San José Department, Uruguay

From: Finca Piedra – Ranch – Hotel
To: Colonia del Sacramento

A charming secret set in the historic centre of Colonia del Sacramento, a city that seduces artists, adventurers and explorers alike with its cobbled streets and history.

Set in an 18th-century Portuguese ranch, Posada Plaza Mayor is a peaceful and magical retreat, surrounded by greenery with shady rooms that welcome a moment of relaxation. Centred by a garden that draws on Andalucian design, the large drafty windows will welcome you into a moment of intimacy and the interior design will ask you to stay a little longer.

Of course, mornings at Posada Plaza Mayor are spent on the patio.

Address: Posada Plaza Mayor, Del Comercio, Colonia del
Sacramento Colonia Department, Uruguay

Head out to the historical centre where you stroll along the picturesque cobblestone streets of Uruguay’s oldest city, Colonia del Sacramento. One of the highlights is the Calle de Los Suspiros, often used as scenery for historical films. Colonia complements its archaeological values with natural beauty; the River Plate and the monuments such as the cathedral and the lighthouse. After your tour, take the hour-long ferry to Buenos Aires in Argentina.

Colonia del Sacramento is a small colonial city founded by the Portuguese in 1680, at a time when Spain and Portugal were in the midst of confrontations.

For over a hundred years, both Empires fought over Colonia del Sacramento, until finally, the Treaty of Saint Ildefonso awarded it to Spain. Today, the Old City has a lot to say about its Colonial past.

You’ll visit the picturesque streets of Colonia del Sacramento, the eldest city in the country, declared World Heritage by UNESCO in 1995. On a city tour, you’ll visit the main square Playa de Maya and the picturesque streets of Colonia del Sacramento, the oldest city in the country, recently declared a World Heritage site by UNESCO.

You will see the streets of Santa Rita, San Gabriel, the Matriz Church, San Pedro road, the Bastion del Carmen, the famous “Calle de los Suspiros“ (Street of Sighs) used so often as scenery for historical films.

Address: Colonia Del Sacramento Colonia Department, Uruguay

From: Colonia del Sacramento
To: Buenos Aires

Set in the very certain of Buenos Aires, Grand Brizo brings together modernity and traditional Argentinian design to create a spacious and relaxing environment for your time in the city.

Situating itself just moments from all of the city’s attractions as well as the financial district, Grand Brio Buenos Aires is perfect for travellers, family vacations and business travellers alike with a range of rooms standards that cater to all.

There are a total of 192 rooms with designs that aim to bring light and brightness to your day, each of the rooms offers the level of attention to detail that aims to both introduce you to Argentina as well as offer home comforts for a relaxing and enjoyable stay.

Address: Grand Brizo Buenos Aires, Cerrito, Buenos Aires, Argentina

Explore the birth city of the Tango! Visit the Avenida de Mayo, Casa Rosada, the Cabildo, the Congress building and the Metropolitan Cathedral, Argentina’s main catholic church and the mausoleum of General San Martin, our national hero. Continue to the Recoleta area where you see boutiques and restaurants, surrounded by centennial trees and Recoleta cemetery, where poignant Argentinian personalities rest. In the evening, enjoy a tango show, a demonstration of Andean music, and exquisite cuisine.

During your city tour in Buenos Aires you will drive along 9 de Julio Avenue, the widest avenue of the world, you will pass close to the Colon Theatre, one of the world’s best-known opera houses and the cultural pride of the “Bonaerenses”.

Visit the famous Avenida de Mayo that runs into the Plaza de Mayo, surrounded by the Casa Rosada (Government House), the Metropolitan Cathedral and the Cabildo (first City Hall, built during Spanish rule). At the other end of A Avenida de Mayo, the cupola of the Congress building can be seen.

Stop and visit the inside of the Metropolitan Cathedral, this imposing neoclassical building is Argentina’s main Catholic building. The mausoleum of General San Martin (our National Hero) is located inside the cathedral; Pope Francisco used to celebrate religious services in it when he was cardinal of Buenos Aires city.

We will stop for a cup of coffee and a snack at a traditional coffee house. Your next stop is La Boca, a most colourful area with the famous street Caminito.

Continue to the north area passing by Palermo and visit the Recoleta area, one of the city’s most glamorous spots. Here you will see elegant boutiques and excellent restaurants, surrounded by centennial trees.

The heart of the neighbourhood is Recoleta cemetery. The cemetery is the centre of this aristocratic neighbourhood, and the most relevant personalities of Argentina’s history rest in this place. The mausoleums and pantheons reflect the architectural diversity emerging from the different cultural tendencies Argentina incorporated in its formation as a nation. The cemetery is considered to be one of the most impressive monuments of Argentina. The stop includes a visit to Eva Duarte’s grave, known as Eva Perón whose story is told in Evita.

Address: Buenos Aires, Argentina

El Viejo Almacén became a unique place thanks to its historic location and an authentic style nourished by popularity built through the years. Every night its doors are open to enjoy an impressive tango show performed by prominent interpreters of the tango scene, a demonstration of Andean music, as well as exquisite cuisine.

The tango tradition started at the end of the 19th century and developed out of a mixture of various rhythms, which were originally danced in the poorer neighbourhoods. Tango is reflecting the nostalgia and melancholy of the European immigrants and brought up some great musicians, such as Astor Piazzolla and Anibal Troilo.

You will enjoy a show with music, singing and dancing. The dinner includes entrée, main course, dessert and drinks.

Address: Av. Independencia 299, C1099 AAC, Buenos Aires, Argentina

You’ll have the day free to explore the city, alternatively, you can head outdoors with many optional tours, including the Tigre Delta with its rivers and green islands. The continuous sediment of the Paraná River, which gives the river its brownish-red colour, forms the Delta islands. Drive around the outskirts of Buenos Aires to the northern district of San Isidro and Tigre, a charming town with yachting and rowing clubs. Take a 1-hour boat trip on the channels of the Tigre-Delta to explore.

The Tigre Delta with its rivers, streams and numerous green islands is a very attractive area. The continuous sediment of the Paraná River, which gives the river its particular brownishred colour, forms the Delta islands.

You will drive through the outskirts of Buenos Aires to the aristocratic northern district of San Isidro to get to Tigre. Tigre
is a charming town with a considerable number of summer residences, yachting and rowing clubs, which represent the weekend activities of many “porteños” (inhabitants of Buenos Aires).

You will enjoy a 1-hour boat-excursion on the channels of the Tigre-Delta to see some of the hundreds of islands covered with exuberant vegetation.

+ optional (not included in price)

Address: Tigre, Buenos Aires Province, Argentina

In the morning, you’ll transfer to Buenos Aires domestic airport for the flight to Iguassu. Upon arrival, you’ll head to the Argentinean National Park where Iguassu Falls are. You will make a short stop at the visitor’s centre then along the Inferior Circuit, the down-river falls, to the Superior Circuit, and the up-river cascades. The Ecological Jungle Train leads you to the best observation point of the falls, the Devil’s Throat. After the tour, head to your hotel on the Brazilian side.

From: Buenos Aires
To: Buenos Aires Airport

From: Buenos Aires
To: Iguazu Falls

+ not included in price

One of the most impressive parts of Iguazu is found on the Argentinian side. Here, you’ll discover just how forceful nature can be, and you’ll feel it through all of the sense, as the stray gradually soaks your clothes, your ears are filled with the sound of its gushing and you can’t take your eyes off of its power.

Iguazu Falls are some of the widest in the world, crossing the borders of Brazil, Argentina and Paraguay. The Argentinian side is the most relaxing experience, as you can leisurely stroll along the boardwalks that allow you to see the falls from many different angles and get up close to its powerful force.

Address: Iguazu Falls

From: Iguazu Falls
To: Wish Foz do Iguaçu

Just 20 minutes from the famous Iguazu Falls and six kilometres from the airport, right on the border between Brazil, Paraguay and Argentina, the luxurious Wish Foz is a beautiful five-star resort.

Its exquisite infrastructure for families and couples and the advanced level of services, aimed at guests more demanding, qualify as an excellent choice in hosting, being chosen as the “The Best Resort in Brazil”.

The luxury hotel owns the 2016 Best Resort Award, as well as the 2017 and 2018 Best Resort for Families in South America. The resort features free WiFi, three international restaurants and several outdoor pools.

The Golf Grill is the resort’s main restaurant and it serves breakfast and a full buffet with salads and hot dishes prepared. Forneria di Como offers a relaxed atmosphere, which welcomes guests, both for lunch and dinner. The Frontera Sur is Argentinian-themed restaurant and its main dishes are the noble meats.

Address: Wish Foz do Iguaçu – Avenida das Cataratas – Tamanduá, Foz do Iguaçu – State of Paraná, Brazil

In the morning, visit the Brazilian side of Iguassu Falls. You’ll walk along the paths following cascades and then the catwalk that leads very close to the bottom of the Devil’s Throat to enjoy magnificent views. Take an elevator to go up to the road to board the coach which will bring back to the hotel. You’ll have the remainder of the day free to explore as you wish, there are many activities that you can choose to do here.

Found at the border of Brazil, Argentina and Paraguay, Iguacu Falls are some of the widest in the world, measuring three times the width of Niagara.

Protected by the national park of the same name, the Brazilian side of the falls enjoys a wealth of activities that will thrill and challenge adventure-seekers will opportunities for extreme abseiling, rafting and thrilling boat rides that go into the waterfalls. Here, swimwear comes highly recommended, as, for most of your time here, you’ll be soaked!

For those who are not too enthused by water activities, there are numerous trails around the falls that will take you to stunning viewpoints looking out across the falls; no matter where you are or what you do next to Iguacu, you will feel the power and force of nature in this waterfall.

Address: State of Paraná, Brazil

This morning you’ll be taken to the airport to catch your flight to Rio! One of the most iconic cities in the world. When you land, you’ll be taken straight to your hotel. Stretch your legs with a walk along the famous Copacobana Beach during sunset hours to welcome yourself to Rio de Janeiro. If you have energy, at night, you may wish to experience a Brazilian party – Rio style!.

From: Wish Foz do Iguaçu
To: Cataratas International Airport

From: Iguazu Falls
To: Rio de Janeiro

+ not included in price

From: Rio de Janeiro Airport RJ Santos Dumont
To: Rio de Janeiro

Copacapbana is one of Rio’s most iconic beaches and the Windsor Excelsior Hotel puts you directly on it. Breathing in the beauty of this oceanside location will present you with a base for amazing experiences in this marvellous city.

The Windsor Excelsior Hotel brings together old-time class and refinement with the additions of luxurious amenities to bring a complete package when in Jio.

Large bay windows will ensure you never miss a moment in one the most happening locations while additions facilities like the gym, pool bar and on site restaurant with a true Brazilian flair make this a hotel to remember. The rooms at Windsor Excelsior are fresh, crisp and spacious with opulent comfort.

Address: Windsor Excelsior Hotel – Avenida Atlântica – Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro – State of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

When in Rio do as the Cariocas (the native Brazilians born in Rio de Janeiro) do.

This dazzling city is as diverse and enthralling as its residents and one thing is for sure, you won’t run out of things to see or do. Rio de Janeiro is a wonderful place of contrasts: you can people-watch on its lively beaches, admire the natural beauty on sites such as Sugarloaf or Tijuca National Park or immerse yourself in impromptu Samba nights in Pedra do Sal.

You can’t visit Rio without a visit to Christ the Redeemer, one of Brazil’s most renowned tourist attractions. The imposing monument towers over the city from 700 metres high on the summit of the Corcovado mountain and is truly a sight to behold.

Another highlight of the city is the Escadaria Selaron steps that are decorated with beautiful rainbow mosaics handmade by Jorge Selaron, who built this landmark to display his love for Brazil. Starting in the bohemian neighbourhood of Lapa, the steps lead up all the way to Santa Teresa.

+ optional (not included in price)

Address: State of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Head to Cosme Velho Station to board a cog-train for the ride through Tijuca Forest up Corcovado Mountain at 2,454 feet. At the top of Corcovado is the lookout point where Christ the Redeemer stands. After appreciating the views below, pass by Rio’s famous beaches to reach Sugar Loaf Mountain and ascend by cable car. Then head to the downtown area, where you’ll pass Candelaria Church, Saint Sebastian Cathedral, the Fine Arts Museum, and finish at the Sambadrome, the site of the Carnival parade.

Head to Cosme Velho Station to board a cog-train for the ride through Tijuca Forest up Corcovado Mountain sitting at 2,454 feet. The train ride takes 20 minutes and is a wonderful opportunity to see the forest’s lush tropical vegetation and the scenic landscapes of the beaches and city. Disembark at the top of Corcovado and walk up the steps that lead to the top lookout where the towering statue of Christ the Redeemer stands.

The tour proceeds to pass by Rio’s world-famous beaches until you reach Urca District to board a cable car for a two-staged ascent up Sugar Loaf Mountain at 1,280 feet high. After you come down you’ll head to Guanabara Bay and Flamengo Park to visit the downtown area. Pass by the financial and business centre and other attractions such as the Candelaria Church, Saint Sebastian Cathedral, Lapa Arches, Municipal Theatre, National Library, Fine Arts Museum, and by the Sambadrome, the site of Rio’s famous Carnival parade.

Address: Rio de Janeiro, State of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Standing tall over Rio de Janeiro, Christ the Redeemer is an icon of the city, if not of the country. Standing at the summit of 704-metre-high Mount Corcovado, this colossal statue of Jesus Christ stands at 30 metres tall with arms outstretched measuring 28 metres across on an 8-metre-high stone pedestal. This statue is the largest Art Deco-style sculpture in the world.

Completed in 1931, the statue was proposed by the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Rio de Janeiro in 1921. A year later, the first stone was laid. The statue is made of reinforced concrete and covered in a mosaic of thousands upon thousands of triangular soapstone tiles. To reach the statue, you can take escalators, the cog train or the panoramic elevators that were added in 2002.

Address: Parque Nacional da Tijuca – Alto da Boa Vista, Rio de
Janeiro – RJ, Brazil

Sugarloaf Mountain, known locally as Pao de Acucar, is one of the most iconic landmarks of Rio de Janeiro. Stretching up to a massive 396 metres, the observation platform at the top boasts wonderful views over the city, its modern skyscrapers, its harbour, its beaches and of course, the Christ the Redeemer statue in the distance.

To reach the top of Sugarloaf Mountain, you can either opt to take the cable car up both hills or you can hike up to the top of the first then take the cable car to the second. Both hills feature a number of restaurants, cafes and souvenir shops as well as forest walks and an interactive museum.

Address: Sugarloaf Mountain – Urca, Rio de Janeiro – State of
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

We’ve arrived at the end of your South America tour. You’ll be transferred to the airport ready for your departure.

From: Rio de Janeiro
To: Rio de Janeiro Airport RJ Santos Dumont