Duration17 Days 16 Nights
Max Group Size18
Minimum Age18i
Fitness LevelModerate
MealsPartially includedi
Start & End LocationStart: Buenos Aires, End: Rio de JaneiroWhat's Included
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Get up to $90 cash back per person when you book with us
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An epic 17-day South American adventure visiting Argentina, Uruguay, & Brazil
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Connect with new friends on your first night out in a new destination
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Explore with free time in Buenos Aires, Montevideo, Paraty, & Rio de Janeiro
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Join an orientation walk of the colourful streets of Colonia
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Live like a local Gaucho with an Estancia (ranch) stay packed with activities
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Take a tour of the mighty power of the Iguassu Falls
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Soak up the sun in Ilha Grande
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Give back to the community with a Favela Experience in Rio De Janeiro
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All accommodation: Hotel (9 Nights), Hostel (4 Nights), Estancia (2 Nights), Overnight Bus (1 Night)
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Meals: 10 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners
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Transport: Local bus, Minivan, Taxi, Ferry, Walking, & Internal flights from Puerto Iguazú to São Paulo included. See FAQ for more.
What to Expect
Get your South American rush with other young travellers unafraid to embrace the new. You'll kick off the adventure in sophisticated Buenos Aires before getting back to nature on day hikes at a working Uruguayan ranch.
Marvel at Iguassu Falls, then hop on a flight to São Paulo on your way to the Brazilian coast — no gruelling bus ride means more time on the beach.
You'll wrap up the party in Rio, where you can embrace the carnival atmosphere from the centrally-located Copacabana hostel.
Where we visit
Day 1: Buenos Aires
Arrive at any time. Soak in the energy of the bustling and trendy "Paris of the Americas" and get excited for the adventures to come with a few drinks at the hostel.
There is a welcome meeting this evening, where you'll meet your guide and fellow travellers and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.
Accommodation: Hostel
Day 2: Buenos Aires
Enjoy a free day to fall in love with Buenos Aires – there's plenty to see and do. Feel free to relax or try optional activities like going to a Tango show, visiting Teatro Colón, or taking a city tour. Your guide has more ideas if you need them. Just ask!
Accommodation: Hostel
Day 3: Buenos Aires to Colonia
Hop aboard a ferry and cruise across the Río de la Plata to Colonia, Uruguay. You'll add more ink to your passport as you cross the border.
Wander through the colourful streets of this quaint seaside retreat on an orientation walk, where your guide will give you tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. Then, enjoy some free time to explore (and relax!) at your own speed.
Transport: Ferry taking approx 1 hr, guided orientation walk taking approx 1 hr
Accommodation: Hotel
Day 4: Colonia to Montevideo
Your journey continues in the morning as you travel from Colonia to Montevideo. Then, the afternoon is yours for the taking — so explore as you wish!
You can wander through the vibrant streets of the old town searching for street art or visit an iconic soccer stadium that was host to the first World Cup. Hungry? Bring your appetite to Port Market, where you will find an endless bounty of delicious meats. (And fruits and veggies, too.)
Transport: Local bus with an approx driving time of 3 hrs
Accommodation: Hotel
Day 5: Montevideo
Wake up ready to take on another day in Montevideo with various optional activities. Hop on a bike and cruise down the Rambla, soaking up the sun and gorgeous views from this coastline avenue. Alternatively, Take a day trip to glamorous Punta del Este to admire the upscale neighbourhoods and gardens. Or, if you prefer to relax today, kick back and chill in the park like a local.
Accommodation: Hotel
Day 6: Montevideo to Mercedes
Today, let the scenery of picturesque settlements and pastures guide you to Mercedes, your last Uruguayan stop at a local ranch known in this region as an estancia.
Live like a local Gaucho as you experience life on the Uruguayan working ranch. Set out on walks through the countryside, enjoy a leisurely horseback ride through the gorgeous scenery, and appreciate unforgettable sunsets. Learn about the area's history, sit down for a delicious traditional barbecue, and learn how to cook empanadas.
All meals are included during your time here, and there will be a farewell bonfire before the group departs for the next stop.
Transport: Private vehicle with an approx driving time of 4 hrs
Accommodation: Estancia
Day 7: Mercedes
Spend another day living like a local as you stay on the Uruguayan ranch. Walk through the serene countryside and fish in the nearby river, then end your Estancia stay in the best way possible — with another local barbecue.
Accommodation: Estancia
Day 8: Mercedes to Iguassu Falls
Cross the border into Gualeguaychu in Argentina today. Unwind, relax and reflect on your travels as you begin your overnight bus journey to Iguassu Falls. Get ready for a long trip – bring snacks, water, toilet paper and hand sanitiser.
Transport: Overnight Bus with an approx driving time of 16 to 18 hrs
Accommodation: Overnight Bus
Day 9: Iguassu Falls
Welcome to Iguassu Falls, where your next adventure awaits. You'll have free time on arrival, so choose to visit the Brazilian side of the falls and experience unforgettable panoramic views. Alternatively, reach new heights with the option to take a helicopter flight over the falls or check out a bird park.
Transport: Private vehicle with an approx driving time of 4 hrs
Accommodation: Hotel
Day 10: Iguassu Falls
Enjoy a full-day excursion to the breathtaking Argentine side of the falls. Spend the day exploring the paths over the falls or upgrade your experience at the UNESCO World Heritage site with a boat tour. Tours utilise trails and catwalks adapted to the landscape of the area, and walking is easy for all ages; guided tours of the complex are available several times a day.
Don't forget to take pictures as you wander along paths to experience the falls from each exhilarating vantage point.
Transport: Private vehicle with an approx driving time of 4 hrs
Accommodation: Hotel
Day 11: Iguassu Falls to Paraty
Fly to São Paulo and continue by bus to the gorgeous coastal town of Paraty. Choose from a range of optional activities – wander the cobblestoned streets, visit the cachaça distilleries, take a boat trip to the nearby islands in the bay, or visit one of the many white-sand beaches that make Brazil famous.
Transport: Domestic economy flight taking approx 1 hr 30 min, private vehicle with an approx driving time of 6 hrs
Accommodation: Hotel
Day 12: Paraty
Do as much or as little as you want today. Go swimming, snorkelling, or exploring the islands on a boat tour. Alternatively, simply recharge your batteries by immersing yourself in the laidback vibes of Paraty.
Paraty is a quaint colonial town renowned for its architecture – the pace might be slow, but there's a lot to choose from. Considered one of the world's most important examples of Portuguese colonial architecture by UNESCO, the historic centre is a well-preserved national historical monument. Today, it's closed to vehicles to preserve its laid-back colonial ambience.
Accommodation: Hotel
Day 13: Paraty to Ilha Grande
A short, scenic drive along the coast takes you to Angra dos Reis. Then, board the ferry to Ilha Grande – home to some of Brazil's most beautiful beaches. Enjoy free time to soak up the sun, snorkel, hike and cruise to various beaches, not to mention feast on fresh seafood and sip caipirinhas in the plaza in the evenings.
Transport: Shared van with an approx driving time of 2 hrs, ferry trip which takes approx 1 hr 30 mins
Accommodation: Hostel
Day 14: Ilha Grande
The day is yours to explore Ilha Grande. Break a sweat hiking remote trails to experience jaw-dropping views, or choose to relax on a boat tour through turquoise waters to some of the island's most beautiful beaches to swim and snorkel.
Accommodation: Hostel
Day 15: Ilha Grande to Rio de Janeiro
Say goodbye to island life and head north along a dramatic coastal road with sweeping views. Round the cliffs at Vidigal to catch your first glimpse of your next destination and one of the most memorable cities in the world — Rio de Janeiro.
Choose to book a city tour to experience the sights of Rio, like the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue, or take a stroll along Copacabana beach.
Transport: Ferry trip which takes approx 1 hr 30 mins, shared van with an approx driving time of 3 hrs 30 mins
Accommodation: Hostel
Day 16: Rio de Janeiro
In the morning, explore dynamic communities and support social enterprises on a tour led by residents of the Vidigal favela. Participate in a Capoeira session, visit an innovative community green space, sample artisanal beer made in the favela, and purchase unique handicrafts. With support from your tour, entrepreneurial organisations and community members are connected with people, ideas, and resources from around the world to grow their businesses.
Enjoy a free afternoon to discover all that Rio has to offer. If it's a game day, why not catch a football match (or some call it soccer)? Watch the local cheers for their team and join in the celebrations.
Accommodation: Hostel
Day 17: Rio de Janeiro
Sadly your tour comes to an end today, so there are no planned activities. You're welcome to depart at any time.
Departure info
Tour departs from the meeting point at Milhouse Avenue Hostal, Av. de Mayo 1245, C1085 CABA, Argentina (meeting location may change, please check your final documents for the confirmed location).
Frequently Asked Questions
Most people automatically assume that the weather is hot in South America; however, this is not the case, and you may need warm clothes depending on the time of year you travel. The Operator recommends using a backpack for your convenience or a medium-sized suitcase if you prefer. A daypack is also essential for carrying everyday items. Space is limited on transportation, so there is a limit of one main piece of luggage per person. You will be responsible for carrying your own luggage.
Documents:
- Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)
- Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)
- Passport (required) (With photocopies)
- Required visas or vaccination certificates (required) (With photocopies)
- Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)
Essentials:
- Binoculars (optional)
- Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)
- Cash, credit and debit cards
- Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)
- Ear plugs
- First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)
- Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)
- Fleece top/sweater
- Footwear
- Hat
- Locks for bags
- Long pants/jeans
- Moneybelt
- Outlet adapter
- Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)
- Reusable water bottle
- Shirts/t-shirts
- Sleepwear
- Small travel towel
- Sunglasses
- Toiletries (Preferably biodegradable)
- Watch & an alarm clock
- Waterproof backpack cover
- Windproof rain jacket
Health & Safety:
- Face masks (required)
- Hand sanitiser (required)
- Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)
- Quick Covid Test/Antigen Test
- Rubber gloves
Warm Weather:
- Sandals/flip-flops
- Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended)
- Sun hat/bandana
- Swimwear
All countries require a valid passport (with a minimum 6 months validity). Contact your local embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date visa requirements, or see your travel agent. It is your own responsibility to have the correct travel documentation. Visa requirements for your trip will vary depending on where you are from and where you are going.
It is customary in Latin America to tip service providers such as waiters, at approximately 10%, depending on the service. Tipping is an expected - though not compulsory - component of your tour program and an expression of satisfaction with the persons who have assisted you on your tour. Although it may not be customary to you, it is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels. There are several times during the trip when there is an opportunity to tip the local guides or drivers The Operator uses. Recommendations for tipping drivers and local guides would range from 5-10USD per day depending on the quality and length of the service; ask your guide for specific recommendations based on the circumstances and culture.
Additionally, at the end of the trip, if you felt your guide did an outstanding job, tipping is appreciated. The amount is entirely a personal preference, however as a guideline $20-25 USD per person, per week can be used.
Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate in any of the trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your guide, who will take note of your insurance details.
When selecting a travel insurance policy please bear in mind that all clients must have medical coverage and that The Operator requires a minimum coverage of USD200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. They strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. If you have credit card insurance they require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number
The currency in Argentina is the Argentine Peso (ARS), in Uruguay the Uruguayan Peso (UYU) and in Brazil, the Brazilian Real (BRL).
Credit cards and debit cards are very useful for cash advances. Visa cards are the most widely accepted cards. While ATMs are widely available, there are no guarantees that your credit or debit cards will actually work in Latin America. Check with your bank.
You should be aware that to purchase products or services on a credit card, a fee of 5%-10% usually applies.
Do not rely on credit or debit cards as your only source of money. A combination of US dollar cash and cards is best. Please bear in mind that the cost of living in the southern cone countries (Argentina, Brazil, Chile) is much higher than the rest of South America, and in the case of Argentina, more comparable with Europe. Always take more rather than less, as you don't want to spoil the trip by constantly feeling short of funds.
The Operator does not recommend bringing traveller's cheques as they are very difficult to change in country.
The tour includes internal flights:
- One-way economy flight from Iguaçu Falls to São Paulo
Flights into Argentina and out of Brazil are not included.
Allow USD560-730 for meals not included.
Policies
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Aerolineas Argentinas allows 1 piece of luggage that weighs up to 15kg on internal flights. If luggage is overweight, the airline charges 850 ARS at check-in (approx. 15-20 USD)
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Participants should have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund
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Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate in any of these trips
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The minimum age is 18 years
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Cancellation received 60 days or more before departure of first product or service in relevant booking: Lifetime Deposit will be held by the Tour Operator in accordance with these Terms, the remainder of the payments made to the Tour Operator in respect of the cancelled product will be refunded
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Cancellation received 30-59 days before departure of first product or service in relevant booking: Lifetime Deposit will be held by the Tour Operator in accordance with these Terms, an amount equal to 50% of the remainder of the payments made to the Tour Operator in respect of the cancelled Tour will be refunded.
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Cancellation less than 30 days before departure of first product or service in relevant booking: Lifetime Deposit will be held by the Tour Operator in accordance with these Terms, and no further refund will be payable.
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