- ✓ Visit the iconic cities of Buenos Aires, Rio de Janeiro & Salvador
- ✓ Immerse yourself in the Amazon jungle
- ✓ Sail between the glaciers of Patagonia
- ✓ Experience the mighty Iguazu Falls
Spanning three weeks, this is the ultimate itinerary where you’ll see the best of Brazil and Argentina. You’ll experience the sophisticated vibe of Buenos Aires, sail between mighty glaciers, and visit the mighty Iguazu Falls. At the famous falls, you’ll cross the border and set off on your Brazil adventure, starting with the largest and most species-rich tropical rainforest in the world: The Amazon. After visiting Salvador and lazing on a Bahian beach for a few days, you’ll head to Rio de Janeiro for a final fiesta!
Days 1-3 – Buenos Aires: Romance and tango
Start your Argentina adventure in Buenos Aires, exploring the city’s grand plazas, colourful neighbourhoods and historic streets. You’ll stay in happening Palermo district, one of the most popular barrios in Buenos Aires.
After settling in, you’ll meet a local Porteño who’ll show you some of their favourite spots, from leafy parks and lively cafés to lesser-known corners of the city. Along the way, you’ll get a feel for everyday Buenos Aires before enjoying lunch at a local favourite. The rest of your time is free to explore at your own pace.
Days 4-6 – Sailing amongst the glaciers of Patagonia
After breakfast you’ll be collected by a driver and taken back to the airport for your flight to El Calafate: gateway to Los Glaciares National Park and your base for the next three nights. There are a few flight options to choose from and flying times are around 4 hours. Your flights within South America will be booked alongside your international ticket.
Over the next two days you will journey into the frozen heart of Patagonia, a land of dazzling white snow, deep sapphire skies and cool blue glaciers. It’s a surreal, silent place that has to be seen to be believed. You’ll take a boat trip across Lago Argentino, sailing past giant icebergs bigger than houses and huge, impressive glaciers. And visit the mighty Perito Moreno Glacier, following trails and viewpoints along the ice front and, if you fancy it, stepping onto the glacier itself on a mini-trek.
This is a short but seriously impressive taste of Argentina’s wild side. Keep your eyes peeled for chunks of ice calving into the water – the thunderous roar and splash are quite something to witness.
Days 7-9 – Experience the mighty Iguazu Falls
Today you’ll transfer back to the airport in time for your flight to the next destination on your trip: Puerto Iguazu.
Over the next two days, you’ll experience Iguazu Falls from both the Argentinean and Brazilian sides. Explore the trails through Iguazu National Park at your own pace, keeping an eye out for colourful birds, butterflies and curious coatis, before heading to the thundering Devil’s Throat. Then cross into Brazil for a different perspective, following the walkway through the rainforest with the falls stretching out in front of you – keep an eye out for rainbows in the spray.
Day 10 - Fly to Manaus
Today you will make your own way to the airport for your onward flight to Manaus, the gateway to the Amazon. On arrival into Manaus you will be collected and transferred to your hotel where you’ll spend the night, before your journey into the rainforest the following day. The famous Opera House is within walking distance of your hotel and is worth a look if you have a chance – its ornate roof is pretty impressive.
Days 11-13 – Immerse in the Amazon rainforest
After breakfast, travel by road and boat deep into the Amazon, with the jungle getting denser as you go. Your rustic rainforest lodge is surrounded by lush jungle, with palm-thatched cabanas, a restaurant, bar and observation deck. All meals are included and, yes, there’s hot water and electricity… most of the time. This is the Amazon, after all!
For the next couple of days, it’s all about jungle life. Trek through the rainforest, fish for piranhas, spot wildlife by boat or head out after dark in search of caiman. Your local guide will bring the jungle to life, sharing stories about the rainforest and the people who call it home. Activities vary with the season and weather, so expect a few surprises along the way!
Days 14 & 15 – Cobbled Streets of Salvador
After returning from the rainforest you will be dropped off at the airport in Manaus where you will catch your flight to Salvador on Brazil’s North East coast. Back in the colonial days when the Portuguese ruled over Brazil, the arrival of African slaves brought African culture and traditions to Salvador de Bahia. The current combination of Indian, Portuguese and African influences really gives this city its unique identity.
Upon your arrival, you’ll be transferred to your comfortable pousada in the Pelourinho district. During your stay we’ll arrange a walking tour of the historic Pelourinho district with a local guide. This easy-paced walk is a great way to soak up the colour, music and energy of Salvador’s old town. As you wander along the cobbled streets you will learn all about the history of the slave trade and how the African religions and cultures have mixed with the Portuguese heritage to create a unique Bahian community. The rest of your stay is free for you to explore independently.
Days 16-18 – Bahia beach break
Next you’ll be collected from your hotel in Salvador and transferred to Praia das Ondas, a coastal village just 90 minutes to the north. The wide beaches of Praia das Ondas are a great place to visit for some rest and relaxation. The pousada offers air-conditioned bungalows with hammocks set in a garden with two pools and a restaurant, as well as being only a short walk away from the beach.
If you feel like exploring, you can easily arrange a visit to the nearby town of Praia de Forte, which has a quirky assortment of souvenir shops and restaurants.
Days 19-21 – Revelling in Rio
Today you’ll be picked up and taken to the airport in Salvador for your flight to the iconic city of Rio de Janeiro, with its sweeping beaches, great food and lively atmosphere. When you arrive you will be met and transferred to your hotel right next to Copacabana beach.
The following morning you’ll be met by your private guide and driver, who will be with you for the next few hours. There is no set schedule, although your guide will have plenty of suggestions if you’re not sure what to do. This is a great way to tick off some of the city’s best sites, as well as picking up some local insider tips on making the most of your free time in Rio. The rest of your time in Rio is free for you to explore independently.
Day 22 - Depart Brazil
After an epic journey through Argentina and Brazil, ticking off iconic cities, spectacular landscapes and unforgettable experiences, it’s time to head home. We’ll arrange your transfer to Rio airport in time for your flight home.
Accommodation
For this itinerary we offer the following options
Journey from Shimmering Glaciers to the Mighty Amazon - In Style accommodation
For the locations included in this itinerary we have alternative options available in terms of comfort. Our In Style options can be more luxurious, offer something unique or offer a more comfortable transport option – all with that local flavour! If you would like to upgrade your itinerary select our In Style option below.