Argentina, Uruguay & Brazil Discovery - Small Group

Argentina, Uruguay & Brazil Discovery - Small Group

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11 Days From

$7079

Argentina, Uruguay & Brazil Discovery - Small Group

11 Days Starting in Buenos Aires, Argentina and ending in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Visiting: Buenos Aires, Colonia del Sacramento, Montevideo, Iguassu Falls, Rio de Janeiro

Tour operator:

Insight Vacations

Tour code:

SZAUBM20

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Medium

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Small Group

Activities:

Sightseeing, Walking

From: $7079

NB: Prices correct on 23-Dec-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Treat yourself to the finer things in life as you sip Copacabana Beach cocktails in Rio, shop the Tango District antique markets in Buenos Aires and unwind at a spa hotel, overlooking the mists of the Iguazú Falls in Argentina. In the vineyards of Juanicó winery, stop to sample the flavours of Uruguay’s revered wine region. Cross the Rio de la Plata to explore the UNESCO World heritage city of Colonia del Sacramento, before journeying onwards to Iguassu Falls and on to Rio de Janeiro. Follow in the footsteps of your Local Expert for an exclusive guided tour of the Rio Botanical Garden, a precious collection of the world’s oldest trees and exotic orchids.

Choice Highlights

  • Buenos Aires: Indulge your literary passions on a visit to Ateneo Bookstore, one of South America’s largest bookstores. Step inside this preserved, converted theatre dating back to 1919 when it was the Teatro Grand Splendid designed by architects Pero and Torres Armengol. Today you can still admire the artfully designed former orchestra and mezzanine sections as well as the luxury boxes which offer secret-like reading nooks. If you can pull your nose out of your book, gaze at the gilded statues, marble columns, mural celebrating the end of World War I and the dome which was painted with frescoes by Nazareno Orlandi. In this bibliophile’s paradise housing around 120,000 tomes, you’ll surely find a special book and cosy corner to relax with your included coffee and pastry.
  • Buenos Aires: Embark on a culinary journey starting with a stop at Guerrin Pizzeria. Learn how this world-famous pizzeria goes back to 1932. Argentinean pizza is known for being extra cheesy and you’ll want to be sure to try their specialty pizza with a soft, thick dough (pizza de molde) that is kneaded by hand and cooked in a wood-fired oven. Then indulge your sweet tooth at family-owned Cadore Italian ice cream parlour founded in 1957. Sample on of their famous flavours from pistachio and cardamom to hibiscus, Russian cream and sambayón, made with egg yolks, sugar and sweet wine.

Top Rated Highlights

  • Buenos Aires: Start your first full day in Buenos Aires with a city tour of Argentina's cosmopolitan capital. Take in the gorgeous local sights, including the Palacio Barolo, Casa Rosada and Plaza de Mayo.
  • Colonia Del Sacramento: Visit the city of Colonia del Sacramento, with its charming cobbled streets and historic buildings. Now a UNESCO World heritage site, this colourful destination was originally founded by the Portuguese in the 1600s.
  • Montevideo: Sip and savour the wines of Juanicó winery, a 1000-acre vineyard that has been harvesting grapes since 1835. On your tour, learn about the privileged soil and micro-climate of the Juanicó Region that has turned this area into a renowned viticulture site.
  • Iguassu Falls: Take in breathtaking views of the jungle and falls, before heading out with a Local Expert to explore the Argentinian side of the park.
  • Iguassu Falls: Today you’ll take a guided visit to the Brazilian side of Iguassu Falls. While the walk is on the shorter side, it's no less impressive, allowing you to see all the cascades at once.
  • Rio de Janeiro: Conclude the day with a cable car ride up to Sugarloaf Mountain for panoramic views of the Guanabara Bay and Rio's mountainous coastline.
  • Rio de Janeiro: In the morning, take a tour of Tijuca Forest National Park, where you’ll find Mount Corcovado, home to the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue.

Make Travel Matter

Rio de Janeiro: Join a local botanist for an exclusive guided visit to Rio’s Botanical Garden, a research and preservation site for a rare collection of bromeliads and orchids, as well as old trees and exotic plants.

Authentic Dining

Buenos Aires: Relax and unwind before meeting your Travel Director and fellow guests for dinner and drinks.

Buenos Aires: Delight in a 9-course Asado Tasting Menu where each dish is expertly grilled over an open flame, right before your eyes. This immersive culinary journey brings you closer to the essence of Argentine cooking. Complement your meal with handpicked Argentine wines. This adult-exclusive experience is a celebration of Asado, offering a unique blend of tradition and flavour.

Montevideo: Visit a local olive oil farm in the countryside of Colonia Del Sacramento and enjoy a tour of their facilities with a local expert before sitting down for a farm to table lunch paired with local wines.

Iguassu Falls: Your Highlight Dinner will be served at The Argentine Experience where you'll learn how to prepare your own wine-based cocktail, and your own empanadas. Afterword, savour an Argentinian picada and sample mate and Alfajores, Argentina's famous national sweet. To enhance your dining experience, your dishes will be complemented by Argentinian wine pairings.

Rio de Janeiro: Enjoy a lunch with a classic Caipirinha cocktail at Casa Camolese, a contemporary restaurant situated next to the botanical garden.

Rio de Janeiro: In the evening, commemorate your holiday as you join your new friends for a memorable Celebration Dinner at a traditional Brazilian churrascaria with beautiful views of the Sugarloaf Mountain.

Insight Choice

Buenos Aires: Indulge your literary passions on a visit to Ateneo Bookstore, one of South America’s largest bookstores. Step inside this preserved, converted theatre dating back to 1919 when it was the Teatro Grand Splendid designed by architects Pero and Torres Armengol. Today you can still admire the artfully designed former orchestra and mezzanine sections as well as the luxury boxes which offer secret-like reading nooks. If you can pull your nose out of your book, gaze at the gilded statues, marble columns, mural celebrating the end of World War I and the dome which was painted with frescoes by Nazareno Orlandi. In this bibliophile’s paradise housing around 120,000 tomes, you’ll surely find a special book and cosy corner to relax with your included coffee and pastry.

Buenos Aires: Embark on a culinary journey starting with a stop at Guerrin Pizzeria. Learn how this world-famous pizzeria goes back to 1932. Argentinean pizza is known for being extra cheesy and you’ll want to be sure to try their specialty pizza with a soft, thick dough (pizza de molde) that is kneaded by hand and cooked in a wood-fired oven. Then indulge your sweet tooth at family-owned Cadore Italian ice cream parlour founded in 1957. Sample on of their famous flavours from pistachio and cardamom to hibiscus, Russian cream and sambayón, made with egg yolks, sugar and sweet wine.

Places You'll See

Christ The Redeemer

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Arrive In Buenos Aires

Location: Buenos Aires

Accommodation Name: MGallery Palladio, Buenos Aires

Meals Included: Dinner

Nicknamed the “Paris of South America”, this glamorous destination really does live up to its European counterpart. Neoclassical, Art Nouveau and Art Deco buildings line its streets, attracting equally sophisticated travellers. On arrival, you’ll be transferred to your luxury hotel. Relax and unwind before meeting your Travel Director and fellow guests for a  three-course Welcome Dinner with wine.

Day 2: Explore Buenos Aires Relaxed Start

Location: Buenos Aires

Accommodation Name: MGallery Palladio, Buenos Aires

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Start your first full day in Buenos Aires with a city tour. Take in the capital's key sights including the Metropolitan Cathedral, Casa Rosada and Plaza de Mayo. Witness a private demonstration and performance by professional tango dancers in El Viejo Almacén, which is one of the oldest Tango venues in Buenos Aires. Here you will be introduced to this passionate dance and upbeat music. Later, enjoy a unique fireside dining experience at El Fogón Asado.

Day 3: On To Colonia Del Sacramento

Location: Colonia del Sacramento

Accommodation Name: Costanero MGallery, Montevideo

Meals Included: Breakfast

Travel by ferry across the Rio de la Plata, otherwise known as the River Plate. Visit the city of Colonia del Sacramento with its cobbled streets and historic buildings. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this colourful destination was originally founded by the Portuguese in the 1600s. Enjoy lunch with wine at a local olive farm, Viñedos y Olivares del Quintón, known for their characteristic terrain and thermal air, the perfect setting for vineyards and olive groves.  In the afternoon, take a guided walking tour of the protected old city and its 16th century buildings before arriving in Uruguay's capital, Montevideo.

Day 4: Visit Juanicó Winery

Location: Montevideo

Accommodation Name: Costanero MGallery, Montevideo

Meals Included: Breakfast

Explore Montevideo on a city tour. Just north of Montevideo sits Juanicó winery, one of the leading wineries of the country. You’ll be welcomed with a tour of the vineyards, state-of-the-art facilities, and the wine cellar built in 1840. After learning how the past and present blend to create wines that receive gold medals and international recognition, sit down to a leisurely lunch. A sip of one of their Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Gewurztraminer, Riesling and Sauvignon Gris or flagship full-bodied red will leave you with a new appreciation for Uruguayan wines.

Day 5: Return To Buenos Aires Relaxed Start

Location: Buenos Aires

Accommodation Name: MGallery Palladio, Buenos Aires

Meals Included: Breakfast

Enjoy a leisurely morning before your transfer to the ferry escorting you back to Buenos Aires. Curate your afternoon with Insight Choice. Select from two insightful walking tours tailored for the curious traveller. In the city with one of the highest number of bookstores per person in the world, visit the ritzy Recoleta neighbourhood's Ateneo Bookstore. Discover its history as the former Teatro Grand Splendid theatre when it hosted performances by the famous tango singers Carlos Gardel and Ignacio Corsini. Or, delight your palate on a walking tour to Avenida Corrientes, including stops at the nearly 100-year-old Guerrin pizzeria and world-famous Cadore ice cream store known for its sculpted, decadent ice cream made fresh daily. With another evening in this vibrant city, seize the opportunity to watch a tango performance or ask your Travel Director where to enjoy a relaxing dinner of the region's famous steak.

Day 6: Buenos Aires To Iguassu Falls

Location: Iguassu Falls

Accommodation Name: Gran Meliá, Iguazú National Park

Meals Included: Breakfast

With over 270 waterfalls, rare flora and fauna, and lush rainforest, your destination really is as impressive as the photos suggest. Meaning “big water” in the Guaraní language, the stunning falls land in both Argentina and Brazil. Stay on the Argentinian side of the National Park for two nights, at the luxurious Gran Melia hotel. With two outdoor pools, a modern spa and a stylish interior, you’ll be able to relax and rejuvenate in a fitting manner. Have a night at leisure as you take in your beautiful surroundings.

Day 7: Sightseeing At Iguassu Falls

Location: Iguassu Falls

Accommodation Name: Gran Meliá, Iguazú National Park

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Take in breathtaking views of the jungle and falls, before heading out with a Local Expert to explore the Argentinian side of the park. Take an optional Gran Aventura boat ride to Devil’s Throat, the largest and perhaps most famous water cascade in the park. This u-shaped waterfall contains 14 falls in total and is more than 262 feet (80 metres) high. Your dinner will be served at The Argentine Experience where you'll learn how to prepare your own wine based cocktail, and your own empanadas. Afterwords, savour an Argentinian picada and sample mate and Alfajores, Argentina's famous national sweet. To enhance your dining experience, your dishes will be complemented by Argentinian wines.

Day 8: The Brazilian Side

Location: Iguassu Falls

Accommodation Name: Hilton Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro

Meals Included: Breakfast

Wake up inside the National Park and enjoy breakfast with a tropical view at your hotel. Today you’ll take a guided visit to the Brazilian side of Iguassu Falls. While the walk around the Brazilian side is shorter, it's no less impressive. The falls are further away which allows you take in all of them at once with a unique vantage point. Your Local Expert will show you panoramic views of San Martin Island, before you head to the airport for your flight to Rio. Move on to the capital of samba and the home of iconic Copacabana Beach, famous for its stretch of golden sand. Located by Copacabana Beach, your hotel is the perfect place to relax. Take a dip in the rooftop pool, sit back and watch the sunset, or explore the bars and restaurants on your doorstep.

Day 9: Explore Rio De Janeiro

Location: Rio de Janeiro

Accommodation Name: Hilton Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

This morning, visit a local produce market and sample some of Brazil's unique fruits. Afterwards, join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience with a local botanist for a special guided visit to Rio’s Botanical Garden, a preservation site for a rare collection of bromeliads and orchids (seasonal exhibit), as well as old trees and exotic plants. Made up of museums, research and cultural centres, the park showcases over 6500 different species of plants, both local and foreign. Enjoy lunch sipping on a classic caipirinha cocktail at Casa Camolese, a contemporary restaurant situated next to the garden. Conclude your day with a cable car ride up to Sugarloaf Mountain.

Day 10: Leisure Time In Rio De Janeiro

Location: Rio de Janeiro

Accommodation Name: Hilton Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

In the morning, board a cogwheel train through the Tijuca Forest to the top of Corcovado Mountain, home to the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue. After descent, enjoy a scenic drive past some of the most beautiful beaches in Rio before arriving at your hotel for an afternoon at leisure. Spend the afternoon soaking up the sun on Copacabana Beach or ask your Travel Director for the best spot to grab a Brazilian coffee. In the evening, commemorate your holiday as you join your new friends for a memorable dinner at a traditional Brazilian barbecue, known as a churrascaria, offering views of Sugarloaf Mountain.

Day 11: Depart Rio De Janeiro

Location: Rio de Janeiro

Meals Included: Breakfast

It’s time to say goodbye to your fellow travellers as your trip comes to an end. Take our organised transfer to Rio de Janeiro's Antônio Carlos Jobim International Airport.

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    Stay at luxury hotels including MGallery Palladio in Buenos Aires, Costanero MGallery in Montevideo, Gran Meliá in Iguazú National Park, and Hilton Copacabana in Rio de Janeiro.

  • Meals

    Enjoy 3 dinners with wine, 10 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 2 lunches with wine.

  • Guided Tours

    Experience guided tours in Buenos Aires, Colonia del Sacramento, Montevideo, Iguassu Falls, and Rio de Janeiro.

  • Transfers

    Transfers are available at scheduled times for arrival and departure flights as per the itinerary.

  • Local Expert

    Benefit from the services of a highly-skilled Travel Director and Local Experts during your journey.

  • Culinary Experiences

    Indulge in authentic dining experiences including a 9-course Asado Tasting Menu, farm to table lunch, and a traditional Brazilian churrascaria.

  • Sightseeing

    Visit iconic sites such as Iguassu Falls, Sugarloaf Mountain, and Christ the Redeemer statue.

  • Cultural Experiences

    Witness a private tango demonstration in Buenos Aires and visit Rio’s Botanical Garden with a local botanist.

  • Well-being Protocols

    Enhanced hygiene protocols are in place, with hand sanitizer freely available on board.

What's Not Included

  • Optional Activities

    Optional activities such as the Gran Aventura boat ride to Devil’s Throat are not included.

  • Personal Expenses

    Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks outside of the included meals are not covered.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.

  • Flights

    International and domestic flights to and from the tour start and end locations are not included.

Mode of Transport

Travel seamlessly with organized transfers, including a ferry ride across the Rio de la Plata and a flight to Rio de Janeiro, ensuring a smooth journey between destinations. Enjoy local transportation for city tours and excursions, enhancing your travel experience.

Accommodation

Experience luxury at MGallery Palladio in Buenos Aires, Costanero MGallery in Montevideo, Gran Meliá in Iguazú National Park, and Hilton Copacabana in Rio de Janeiro, offering elegant rooms, modern amenities, and stunning views for a comfortable stay throughout your journey.

Dining Summary

  • 3 Dinner with Wine (DW)
  • 10 Breakfast (B)
  • 3 Lunch with Wine (LW)
  • 1 Lunch (L)

Additional Included Highlights

  • From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, which is a local specialty representing the destination.
  • Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.
  • We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door.
  • If your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates, then transfers are available at scheduled times. If your flights are outside these times, or you have booked additional nights accommodation with Insight Vacations, you may purchase transfers or make your own way from/to the airport.
  • Our highly-skilled Travel Director will ensure your journey is seamless, serving as your expert guide, consummate organiser, and friend overseas.
  • Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary.

Insight Experiences

  • Buenos Aires: Witness a private demonstration and performance by professional tango dancers and musicians at an authentic “conventillo” in La Boca, where you will be introduced to this passionate dance and upbeat music.

Well-being

  • Experience enhanced hygiene protocols to align with the latest guidance following COVID-19.All Travel Directors, Well-Being Directors and Drivers have completed training in enhanced well-being and hygiene protocols.
  • Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.

Check out our Q&As

  • What unique experience can I expect at the Ateneo Bookstore in Buenos Aires?

    At the Ateneo Bookstore, you can indulge your literary passions in a preserved, converted theatre dating back to 1919. You can admire the artfully designed former orchestra and mezzanine sections, luxury boxes, gilded statues, marble columns, and a dome painted with frescoes. The bookstore houses around 120,000 tomes, and you can relax with a coffee and pastry in one of the cozy reading nooks.

  • What culinary experiences are included in Buenos Aires?

    In Buenos Aires, you can embark on a culinary journey starting with a stop at Guerrin Pizzeria to try their specialty pizza. You can also visit Cadore Italian ice cream parlour to sample their famous flavors. Additionally, you will enjoy a 9-course Asado Tasting Menu with Argentine wines, and witness a private tango demonstration.

  • What can I expect during the visit to Iguassu Falls?

    At Iguassu Falls, you will explore both the Argentinian and Brazilian sides of the park. On the Argentinian side, you can take an optional boat ride to Devil’s Throat, the largest waterfall in the park. On the Brazilian side, you will enjoy panoramic views of the falls and San Martin Island. Your visit includes a Highlight Dinner where you will learn to prepare a wine-based cocktail and empanadas.

  • What activities are planned in Rio de Janeiro?

    In Rio de Janeiro, you will visit a local produce market, join a guided visit to the Botanical Garden with a local botanist, and enjoy a lunch with a classic Caipirinha cocktail. You will also take a cable car ride up to Sugarloaf Mountain and board a cogwheel train through the Tijuca Forest to the top of Corcovado Mountain to see the Christ the Redeemer statue.

  • What is the significance of the visit to Colonia del Sacramento?

    Colonia del Sacramento is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its charming cobbled streets and historic buildings. Originally founded by the Portuguese in the 1600s, you will enjoy a guided walking tour of the protected old city and its 16th-century buildings.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    We regret that no refunds can be made for absences from a tour, including experiences such as missed meals or sightseeing.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Since 1978.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Insight Vacations is a founding member of the TreadRight Foundation, a joint initiative created by the brands within The Travel Corporation (TTC) almost 15 years ago to ensure our impact through tourism is positive. Our ethos to #MakeTravelMatter guides our decision-making at every level of our business.

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    You have two options as a solo traveller. Either choose to be matched with a same sex partner for a room share - at no extra cost. Or choose a room of your own with a reduced or even free private room upgrade on select tours.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

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Tuesday - Friday

Dec 02, 2025 - Dec 12, 2025
$7079

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Barrhead Travel requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 98 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of barrhead travel charges.

    Up to 98 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 97 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.

    At 28 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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