Itinerary

1. MON I RIO DE JANEIRO

   Welcome to Brazil! Upon arrival in Rio de Janeiro you will be met by and transferred to your hotel. Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure to explore the “Cidade Maravilhosa” or “Marvelous City” at your own pace or relax and take a stroll on the world-famous beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema.

2. TUE I RIO DE JANEIRO

   After a delicious buffet breakfast at your hotel, embark on an insightful half day city tour. Begin in the downtown area, stopping at the Metropolitan Cathedral that was built in a pyramidal form. Walk through The Aterro do Flamengo and arrive in the neighborhood of Urca where Sugar Loaf Mountain greets you. You will travel all the way to the top in two stages by cable car. The first takes you to Urca Hill, a vantage point situated 705 feet high with beautiful views of Guanabara Bay, the Rio-Niteroi Bridge and Corcovado Mountain with its iconic statue of Christ the Redeemer. From here, board a second cable car to the very top. At 1296 feet enjoy fabulous views of Copacabana Beach, Santa Cruz Fortress, and several beaches of Niteroi. After riding the cable car back down, return to your hotel. This evening we recommend experiencing the Ginga Tropical show, the best Samba show in town. (B)

3. WED I RIO DE JANEIRO

   Have breakfast at your hotel and then enjoy the morning at leisure to discover this beautiful city, including the wonderful beaches of Rio de Janeiro. Early this afternoon you will be picked-up from your hotel for a half-day tour of Corcovado Mountain and some of the other majestic beaches of Rio. Board a cog train from Cosme Velho Station for a ride up Corcovado Mountain to visit one of the world’s most famous landmarks, the imposing statue of Christ the Redeemer. (B)

4. THU I RIO DE JANEIRO I IGUASSU FALLS (BRAZILIAN SIDE)

   After a sumptuous buffet breakfast you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Iguassu, one of the greatest wonders of nature in South America situated amid a sub-tropical forest in the triangle of Argentina, Paraguay and Brazil. Upon arrival in Iguassu, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. This afternoon you will tour the Brazilian side of the Falls. Begin your tour by heading into the National Park and visiting the Main Center. From there, hike along the most important trail, where you can enjoy a jaw-dropping view. From the local observation point you will have an amazing sight of the waterfalls of both the Brazilian and Argentine parks. Return to the main center via the panoramic elevator and then head back to your hotel. (B)

5. FRI I IGUAZU FALLS (ARGENTINIAN SIDE)

   After breakfast this morning you will be transferred to the Argentinian side of the falls. The tour continues to the Tancredo Neves Bridge over the Iguassu River, separating the border between Argentina and Brazil. Once in Argentina, take a scenic highway up to the Argentine Iguassu Park where you will have a spectacular view of the falls, with access to the awe-inspiring Devil’s Throat. On the way back from the falls stop at the “Three Borders” of Brazil, Argentina and Paraguay. (B)

6. SAT I IGUASSU FALLS I BUENOS AIRES

   Today you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Buenos Aires. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel. Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure to become familiar with this cosmopolitan city that showcases European influences in its culture, cuisine, architecture, and more. During the day, many attractions beckon, from museums, art galleries, and shops, to parks, tree-lined boulevards, and amazing restaurants. (B)

7. SUN I BUENOS AIRES

   Enjoy breakfast at your hotel, then get in touch with the birth city of the Tango. This is the perfect tour to discover the charm of Argentina’s capital, from the chic districts of Recoleta and Palermo, to historic Plaza de Mayo, and on to architectural icons such as the Colon opera house, the Metropolitan Cathedral, and the palace of Congress. After lunch the program continues with visits to old town San Telmo, home of the city’s aristocracy until the late 19th century; Caminito street, in La Boca, the colorful shelter for Italian immigrants; and the thriving restaurant scene at the Puerto Madero waterfront. This evening, enjoy dinner and a Tango Show at Aljibe Tango. (B,D)

8. MON I BUENOS AIRES

   Start your day with breakfast at your hotel and then get ready to explore the city at your own pace. With a full day at leisure the choices are yours or consider joining one of the many optional tours that are available. (B)

9. TUE I BUENOS AIRES TO USA (OR EXTEND YOUR STAY)

   After breakfast at your hotel, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight back home. (B)