Chile + Argentina In-Style

On arrival at the airport, you’ll be warmly greeted and escorted to Le Reve, our intimate and elegant boutique hotel ideally situated in one of the city’s finest neighborhoods. This afternoon, our engaging native-born guide will show you the sites, culture and vibrant life of the capital. Your exploration begins with a walking tour through the historic city center, home to fine Colonial-era landmarks including La Moneda Palace and the historic Plaza de Armas. At the Mercado Central, set in a French-inspired architectural landmark, you’ll mingle with city residents who come here daily to shop for vegetables, fruits, fresh fish and other produce. Continue through charming and peaceful city neighborhoods like Merced and Lastarria, and enjoy a guided stroll through Parque Forestal, a delightful urban oasis along the banks of the Mapocho River. Take a break in one of the nearby cafes and finish your sightseeing atop San Cristobal Hill, famous for its sweeping views of the city set against a spectacular mountain backdrop.

Today’s full day excursion reveals lovely Valparaiso, an historic port and university town nestled between the mountains and sea. Setting out after breakfast, head to the coast.  Encompassing both the historic Old Town and newer areas of Valparaiso, your tour includes Plaza de la Victoria with its lovely Neptune Fountain and the bustling harborside wharves. Highlighting the morning is a guided visit through La Sebastiana, the remarkable former residence of Nobel Prize-winning poet Pablo Neruda. Set on a hill with wonderful views of the city and sea, this landmark is now a museum that offers rich insight into Neruda’s life and work.
 
Enjoy lunch in a local restaurant, accompanied by fine Chilean wine and views of the bay, and then follow your guide into a nearby pastry shop; it will be a small local place, one you might never find on your own, but selected by our guide for the quality of its freshly-baked alfajores – a local favorite that is perhaps best described as the finest sandwich cookie you’ll ever have!
 
After lunch, your sightseeing continues along the town’s cobbled streets with an expert guide and muralist.  See the graffiti and street art through the eyes of a painter; with its distinctive Chilean style, the local street art movement has been influential around the world in providing a visual commentary on today’s politicals.   After sightseeing, we’ll take you back to your luxury hotel in Santiago where the evening is yours to dine, relax and enjoy as you wish.  Meals B+L
 

After breakfast, you’ll be escorted to the airport for your included international flight into the heart of Argentina’s esteemed Wine Country. On arrival in Mendoza, you’ll be met and escorted to our vineyard hotel, the luxurious Cavas Wine Lodge. Situated on a picturesque 55-acre vineyard at the foot of the Andes, all of the Lodge’s stylish guestrooms feature spectacular views of the Andes and spa-style bathrooms with a separate shower and vintage soaking tub. With innovative inside and outside living space, your luxury accommodation also includes an outdoor shower, a private plunge pool and a rooftop terrace with comfortable seating and a wood-burning fireplace – the ideal setting to relax with a glass of Argentine wine as the sun sets behind the Andes. Your stay at Cavas includes a 1-hour massage and access to the gym, sauna, jacuzzi and outdoor swimming pool. Meals B+L+D

Today you will set out to explore the wineries and award-winning vintages of Mendoza. The regions is perhaps best known for its award-winning Malbec, a Bordeaux variety introduced to Argentina from France in the mid-19^th century; other esteemed regional reds include Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah and Tempranillo. For white-wine enthusiasts, Argentina is best-known for its floral Torrontés, but also produces Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Grigio.
 
With your private driver, you will indulge in winery visits and wine-tastings as you get to know the region’s vinicultural traditions with local experts and people who are living their passion for fine wine-making. Meals B+L+D

After breakfast, bid farewell to the exceptional Cavas Wine Lodge and transfer to the airport for your included flight deep into the breathtaking landscapes of Patagonia. On arrival in the inviting town of Bariloche, you’ll be met and escorted to the Llao Llao Hotel. Inspired by the grand and historic resorts of the American and Canadian Rockies, this deluxe resort is a member of the prestigious Leading Hotels of the World and promises an exceptional stay. Your exceptional room is in the luxurious Moreno wing, fully air-conditioned with a beautiful view of the lake. The rest of your afternoon is at leisure to enjoy our hotel’s splendid hilltop setting, nestled between picturesque Lake Nahuel Huapi and Lake Moreno with sweeping views of the surrounding mountain ranges.  Meals B

Journey along the lakeshore to San Carlos de Bariloche and ascend the Campanario Chairlift for breathtaking views. A guided walk through an old-growth forest reveals captivating vistas of lakes and mountains. Return to our wonderful resort to enjoy a free afternoon. meals b

After breakfast and a leisurely morning, we’ll take you to the airport for your included flight to Buenos Aires. On arrival in the capital, you’ll be met and escorted to the Alvear Palace. Situated in one of the city’s most prestigious districts, this visually striking landmark blends the 1930’s charm of the French Palacio Duhau with contemporary design, exceptional service and luxury amenities. Then step out with your in-the-know guide for a guided stroll through the surrounding neighborhood of Recoleta, renowned for its elegant tree-lined streets, French-inspired architecture, and upscale shops and eateries. End your afternoon at the Alvear’s rooftop bar overlooking Buenos Aires’ spectacular skyline while sipping fine Argentine wine.  This is a delightful way to experience a bit of the city’s allure.  Meals B

The capital of Argentina presents a rich mosaic of cultures. You’ll encounter Spanish, Italian, German and French influences nearly everywhere you turn – in the architecture, the cuisine and the joie de vivre of its residents. This morning, you’ll join our native-born guide for a sightseeing tour beginning in Plaza de Mayo - the historic heart of the city and still a popular gathering spot for local residents. At one end, you’ll see the impressive façade of the Casa Rosada, where Juan Peron and Maria Eva Duarte famously delivered their speeches from the central balcony.
 
You’ll continue through the vibrant district of San Telmo, known for its many antique shops, and explore La Boca, the historic waterfront district where the Tango was born. You’ll also visit Zanjon de Granados; dating back to the 1700’s and discovered in 1986, this unusual subterranean network of tunnels and cisterns offers a fascinating look into urban life centuries ago. Before returning to your luxury hotel, you’ll also visit the Recoleta Cemetery. Among the many impressive statues and marble mausoleums marking the tombs of past presidents, military heroes and other notable Argentine figures, you’ll find the much-visited final resting place of Evita.
 
Your afternoon is free to enjoy more of this friendly city at your own pace. Tonight, you’ll enjoy dinner and a fiery Tango show at La Ventana, renowned for the skill and passion of its dancers and musicians.  Meals B+D

After breakfast, you’ll be escorted to the airport for your onward journey. Fly home, or travel with us to Iguassu Falls and exciting Rio de Janeiro.  Meals B