1. Tag: Buenos Aires

Welcome to Buenos Aires, the wonderful capital of Argentina! There will be an important group meeting at 6:00pm at the joining hotel - please look out at the hotel reception for a note from your leader with more details about this important meeting.

Please note that many of the options listed below will only be possible for those with extra time in Buenos Aires before the start of your trip with us - please contact us if you would like to book pre-tour accommodation with us to have extra time exploring Buenos Aires.

In Buenos Aires we will stay in a centrally-located hotel.

About Buenos Aires:
At the mouth of the River Plate estuary (where the Uruguay and Paraná rivers flow out into the Atlantic Ocean) lies the fabulous city of Buenos Aires, the cosmopolitan capital of Argentina. It's a buzzing, energetic city that often feels more European than Latin American, so much so that it's often referred to as "the Paris of the South".
There is a huge amount to do see and do here, and it's a fantastic city to explore on foot and using the extensive metro system. Some areas to check out include San Telmo, a bohemian district full of charm, antique shops, street markets, and some excellent bars; Palermo, withits fantastic restaurants and nightlife; and Recoleta, the "Mayfair" of Buenos Aires and home to the La Recoleta cemetry, Eva "Evita" Perón's final resting place. The waterfront area known as La Boca is also worth exploring, a very photogenic district with its ramshackle buildings being painted in a rainbow of different bright colours.
Everywhere you go you'll be surrounded by some fantastic architecture. The Plaza de Mayo is perhaps the most historically interesting, as this is the site of the Cabildo (original town hall), Casa Rosada (the Presidential Palace) and the cathedral where the body of General San Martín lies.
In the evenings, you are spoilt for choice - Buenos Aires has a vibrant nightlife, with a huge number of bars and night clubs to choose from. Restaurants here vary from cheap and cheerful to world class, and it'sa great place to get stuck into some of Argentina's finest steak and red wine. Of course this is also the home of Tango, and there are many evening Tango shows you can buy tickets for or even take a dancing class yourself!

2. Tag: Buenos Aires

Today will be a free day to explore the incredible city of Buenos Aires, soak up the atmosphere of its streets, and discover its amazing culture, art, and music.

Optional activities:
- Enjoy a free city tour of Buenos Aires - Free
- See a different side to Buenos Aires on a tour of its incredible street art with some of the local artists - USD 20
- Head out to a tango show in Buenos Aires' oldest cafe, the Gran Cafe Tortoni - seeing a slice of iconic Argentine culture in an ideal and intimate setting - ARS 450
- Visit the strangely beautiful cemetery of Recoleta, the final resting place of many ex-presidents and Argentine icons, most famously including the tomb of Eva Peron - Free
- Try your hand at the art of tango dancing with a private lesson in Buenos Aires - USD 25
- Learn all about the cuisine of Argentina on a food tour of Buenos Aires, visiting several incredible local top-class eateries that you won't find in the guidebooks! - USD 85
- Try some of Argentina's most delicious wines on a top-level wine tasting afternoon in Buenos Aires - USD 52

3. Tag: Buenos Aires - Yapeyú

Today we have a full day drive north though the provinces of Entre Rios and Corrientes, aiming to reach the beautiful village of Yapeyú on the banks of the River Uruguay. Yapeyú is very famous amongst Argentines for being the birthplace of their national hero General Jose de San Martin, one of the liberators of South America from Spanish colonial rule.

In Yapeyú we will stay in a municipal campsite.

4. Tag: Yapeyú - Foz do Iguaçu

Today we cross the border into Brazil and drive to the city of Foz do Iguacu.

In Foz do Iguacu we will camp in the grounds of an excellent hostel out of town, with good facilities and a pool.

About Foz do Iguaçu:
Foz do Iguaçu (meaning "Mouth of the Iguazu River") is the Brazilian town nestled against the double-border with Argentina and Paraguay. The town is of course most famous as the base for exploring the incredible Iguazu Falls, and the Brazilian side of the waterfalls offers visitors a very different perspective - there are a number of cleverly constructed walkways that allow you to get right out over the water up close to some of the falls themselves, and you will often be able to see fantastic rainbows forming as the sun catches the spray.
For the ultimate waterfall viewing experience, you can also organize helicopter flights from the Brazilian side, where you'll be taken out right over the falls to give you a breathtaking view of this natural wonder from a totally different perspective. There is also a fan static bird park in Foz, where you can see many of Brazil's native species including toucans and macaws.
You can also visit the incredible Itaipu Dam, the world's second-largest dam (after the Three Gorges Dam in China) that stretches across the River Parana between Brazil and Paraguay, and a marvel of modern engineering.

5. Tag: Foz do Iguaçu / Iguazu Falls

Today we will visit the Brazilian side of the phenomenal Iguazu Falls, to get some incredible panoramic vistas of the mighty waterfalls. There is also plenty of time to visit the bird park, take a helicopter ride over the falls, see the incredible Itaipu Dam, or quickly stop into Paraguay to pick up some bargains in the nearcy Ciudad del Este.

About Iguazu Falls:
The Iguazu Falls, located on the Iguazu River between Argentina and Brazil, is the world's largest waterfall system and one of the most spectacular natural sights in the world!
The name "Iguazu" originates from the native Guarani words "y" (meaning "big") and "uasu" (meaning "water") - the Guarani legend says that the falls were created when a deity wanted to a beautiful mortal woman, but when she tried to escape away from him in a canoe with another man the deity sliced the river in two, condemning the water and the lovers to fall for eternity.
Visitors can see the Iguazu Falls from both sides of the border - on the Argentinian side there are miles of trails and walkways through the forests and the many waterfalls along the southern banks, culminating in a kilometre-long walkway to the phenomenal "Garganta del Diablo (meaning "Devil's Throat"), the largest and most powerful section of the waterfall system. Millions of gallons of water thunder down violently to the bottom of the huge ravie, forming the most incredible display of power, rainbows, and spray! In the surrounding dense tropical jungle there are many varieties of brightly coloured butterflies and birds, and you can take an exhilarating motorboat ride up close to some of the waterfalls (if you don't mind getting soaked!).

Optional Activities:
- Visit the colossal Itaipu Dam, the second largest hydroelectric dam in the world - BRL 68
- Visit the Parque das Aves bird park near Foz do Iguaçu, a wonderful conservation project which provides an excellent home to over 1000 iconic birds from the region such as toucans, macaws and eagles - BRL 36
- Take an exhilarating speed boat ride around the base of the falls from the Brazilian side - BRL 66
- Take an unforgettable 10-minute helicopter flight over the Iguazu Falls, enjoying a bird's eye view of one of the world's most incredible set of waterfalls - USD 125

Enthaltene Aktivitäten:
2 full days to discover the unbelievable Iguazu Falls

6. Tag: Foz do Iguaçu / Iguazu Falls

Today we will take a day trip back into Argentina to see the incredible Iguazu Falls from the other side. This is well worth doing as the views are even more spectacular, and you'll be able to look right down into the mighty Garganta del Diablo (the largest waterfall here) from a gantry walkway viewing point). We will have a full day at the Argentine side of the falls, allowing us lots of time to freely explore the site, hike some nature trails, or perhaps take an exhilarating (and very wet) boat ride!

We will return to our base in Foz do Iguacu tonight.

Optional Activities:
- Head on an adrenaline-fuelled speedboat trip to the base of the falls on the Argentine side - be prepared to get very wet! - ARS 350

7. Tag: Foz do Iguaçu - Bonito

Today we have a full drive day north to the Brazilian eco-tourism capital of Bonito.

In Bonito we will camp in the grounds of an excellent hostel with a pool and good facilities.

About Bonito:
The small town of Bonito in the southern Brazilian state of Mato Grosso do Sul is perfectly located in a beautiful and unique area. The area's main attractions are the crystal clear rivers, springs and the stunning caves, not to mention the abundant wildlife, which includes monkeys, alligators, anacondas, over 30 varieties of fish and tremendous bird life.
Unsurprisingly, the town is often described as the "eco-tourism capital of Brazil". There are endless activities on offer, from spectacular walks through the surrounding hills and forests, to caving, horse-riding, abseiling, and snorkeling. Many of the best attractions are on private land and the area is being very carefully managed in order to protect the wildlife and habitats found here.

8-9. Tag: Bonito

We have two full days in Bonito to take part in the plethora of incredible optional activities here. You could go out on a world-class snorkelling trip, explore the nearby caves, or go abseiling down some of the largest waterfalls in the area, amongst many other possibilities!

Optional Activities:
- Caving, rafting and snorkeling in the waters of Bonito - BRL 30
- Abseil down the Boca da Onça waterfall (meaning 'Jaguar's Mouth'), the largest waterfall in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul - BRL 499
- Visit the phenomenal Buraco das Araras, one of the world's largest sink-holes and a natural aviary of macaws and toucans - BRL 75
- Visit the stunning São Miguel Caves near Bonito - BRL 50
- Hire a mountain bike in Bonito to freely explore the incredible countryside of Mato Grosso do Sul - USD 20
- Go on a stunning sunset horse ride around the beautiful countryside around Bonito - BRL 80
- Take a trek through the stunning areas surrounding Bonito, visiting some of the beautiful nearby waterfalls - BRL 50
- Head on an unforgettable trip to Abismo Anhumas, an incredible day out where you abseil through a fissure into a collosal underground cavern, and snorkel in the lake at the bottom - BRL 760
- Visit the ethereal and other-worldly Blue Lake Cave near Bonito, an underground lake with an incredibly vivid shade of blue - BRL 95
- Take an incredible snorkeling trip through the crystal clear waters of the Rio da Prata, getting a phenomenal view of the fish and aquatic plants underwater - BRL 278
- Head out on an exhilarating rafting, tubing, or kayaking expedition down the Rio Formoso - BRL 135

10-11. Tag: Southern Pantanal

Today we have a short drive to Brazil's amazing Southern Pantanal region, where we have a visit a local eco-tourism ranch (or 'fazenda').

We will spend 2 nights here and have a comprehensive package of included activities such as exploring the beautiful surrounding countryside on horseback, trips down the wildlife-abundant rivers in boats and canoes, and safaris on the ranch's trucks and on foot where we hope to spot capybaras, caimans, and (if we are very lucky) jaguars and ocelots. Our stay here is an incredible highlight!

In the Southern Pantanal we will stay in dorm accommodation in a well equipped lodge with all the meals and activities included.

About Southern Pantanal:
The Pantanal is a vast wetland that covers much of inland central and southern Brazil - it is formed of a huge gently-sloping depression surrounded by rolling highlands, so the water from thousands of small rivers runs off from the highlands to collect in the basin before draining out into the Paraguay River. The Pantanal was a predominantly agricultural area, dotted with cattle ranches known locally as "Fazenda" - having realised the importance of their home as a unique habitat for wildlife, many of the Fazendas have opened up for eco-tourism in recent years and offer safaris and tours of the area.
The wildlife here is staggering, and there is probably nowhere else in South America where you'll be able to see as many indigenous species. There are over 250 different species of birds that have been recorded here, including parakeets, macaws, owls, kingfishers, ibis, storks, kites and hawks, hummingbirds and more, and there are prolific numbers of caiman, anacondas, iguanas, two species of anteaters, ocelots, jaguars, tapirs, giant river otters and thousands of marsh deer. One of the easier animals to spot is the capybara, a giant guinea-pig-type rodent that grows up to 60 kgs and lives in large herds in the swamps.

Enthaltene Aktivitäten:
2 night wildlife safari into the Pantanal

12. Tag: Southern Pantanal / Campo Grande

After our morning activities and one final lunch in our beautiful ranch, it is time to leave the Pantanal. We will start driving east towards Sao Paulo state, and wild camp towards the end of the day.

13-14. Tag: Brotas

Today we will drive to the remote town of Brotas in southeastern Brazil.

Tomorrow is free to take part in optional adventure activities such as white water rafting or canyoning, or to simply relax by the pool!

In Brotas we will stay at a campsite with good facilities.

Optional Activities:
- Head out white-water rafting on the fast moving waters of the Jacare River (approximately Grade 3-4) - BRL 150
- Float down the Jacare on a fun tubing trip down the River Jacare near Brotas - BRL 100
- Head out on a half-day canyoning trip through the gorges of the Jacare River near Brotas - BRL 270

15-17. Tag: Paraty

Today we have a full day drive to the colonial town of Paraty on the Emerald Coast of the Atlantic!

On our first full day in Paraty, we will have an included boat trip around the incredible islands and beaches off the coast.

On our second day, we will have free time to explore the town, take a historical tour, walk along the stunning scenery of the coastline, head out snorkelling or diving, or simply relax on the idyllic beaches.

In Paraty we will stay in dorm rooms in a well equipped hostel.

About Paraty:
Stretching west from the vibrant city of Rio de Janeiro is the spectacular Brazilian Emerald Coast, a dazzlingly-beautiful strip of land sandwiched between the verdant green hills and the sparkling waters of the Atlantic. Tropical islands, deserted beaches and picturesque coves with excellent swimming and diving make it the perfect place to relax and enjoy some optional boat trips and other activities.
The old Portuguese colonial town of Paraty, founded in 1597 CE and once a very important port during the Portuguese gold rush of the 17th and 18th Centuries, is perhaps the most attractive spot on the coast. Low white-washed buildings with colourful doors and shutters crowd around the cobbled streets and plaza, full of interesting shops, bars and restaurants.
Paraty really comes alive at night, when locals and tourists alike sit outside the many street cafes and congregate in the main square. The town also has a couple of beaches and there are plenty of others in the surrounding area - and this is also a good place for boat and snorkeling trips, which can be arranged locally.

Optional Activities:
- Go for a scuba diving trip in the incredible oceans around Paraty - BRL 250
- Explore the ocean, islands, beaches, and mangroves of Atlantic coast in a more serene and tranquil fashion, on a sea kayaking expedition around the bay of Paraty - USD 40
- Learn all about the fascinating history of Brazil and the Gold Trail, on an excellent walking tour of the old colonial town of Paraty - USD 35
- Try your hand at stand-up paddle boarding by hiring a board from one of the many vendors at the Jabaquara beach in Paraty - BRL 35

Enthaltene Aktivitäten:
Boat trip out to islands and beaches

18. Tag: Paraty - Rio de Janeiro

This morning we will drive to the incredible Rio de Janeiro, one of the most beautifully situated cities in the world! This afternoon we will have the opportunity to take an optionalvisit to a community favela project that we support.

In Rio de Janeiro we will stay in a great hotel in the Flamengo district, close to the beach and the metro station.

About Rio De Janeiro:
Rio de Janeiro has to be one of the most beautifully situated cities in the world. The stunning Pão de Açucar (Sugarloaf) Mountain rises up out of Guanabara Bay and the sandy beaches of Ipanema and Copacabana cut beautiful curves in the shoreline, all under the watchful gaze of the iconic Art Deco statue of Christ the Redeemer on Corcovado, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
This is a city with something for everyone - beaches, history, shopping, culture, fantastic food and amazing nightlife. For amazing views of this spectacular city, take the cable car up to the top of Pão de Açucar, ride the train to Corcovado or jump on the tram to the historic hillside neighbourhood of Santa Teresa. If you're interested in learning more about Rio and Brazil, there are several fascinating museums in the city and you'll see some fantastic architecture by wandering around the older parts of the city.
Kick back and relax on the famous urban beaches, enjoy a beer or caipirinha at one of the many street-side cafes and then when evening comes you can party the night away - Rio has some unbelievable bars and clubs in the buzzing areas of Lapa and Ipanema. If you need a bit of quiet time to recover, take a walk in the city's wonderful botanical gardens, or escape the city for the day on an excursion to the lush forests of nearby Tijuca National Park.
Rio is particularly famous for its huge annual party - the incredible Rio Carnival. The celebration of Mardi Gras (6 weeks before Easter) is a great Brazilian tradition - the whole city goes wild for a full 7 days in a whirlwind of music and colour. Samba schools compete with ever more awe-inspiring dance displays, floats and costumes, putting on marathon performances in the Sambadrome, and street parties are held all over the city.

19. Tag: Rio de Janeiro

Today is the end day for passengers finishing their trip in Rio de Janeiro.

Please note there is no accommodation included on the trip tonight - please contact us if you are interested in booking extra nights of accommodation in order to fully explore and take part in some of the optional activities listed below.

Optional Activities:
- Take a tour to discover Niteroi, the city over the bridge - BRL 20
- Visit the world famous statue Christ the Redeemer - BRL 74
- Take a cable car up Pão de Açúcar (Sugarloaf Mountain) - BRL 80
- Find out all about Brazil's fascinating history by visiting the National Historical Museum in the centre of Rio de Janeiro - BRL 6
- Visit the Museu da República, and learn all about the turbulent recent history of Brazil and the story of the creation of the republic in 1889 - BRL 6
- Relax and explore the world famous beaches of Rio de Janeiro, including Ipanema, Arpoador, and of course Copacabana - Free
- Explore the magnificent Botanical Gardens of Rio de Janeiro, with over 54 hectares and 6500 species of plants and flowers - BRL 8
- Visit the iconic Escadaria Selaron, a colourful tiled staircase lovingly created by local resident Jorge Selaron - Free
- Explore the stunning natural Atlanic rainforest of Tijuca, the largest urban forest in the world - Free
- Take a brilliant free walking tour with an expert local guide around Lapa and Central Rio de Janeiro (or Copacabana and Ipanema on certain days) - Free