Classic South America
11 Days from $6,038 per person
South America is a vast continent, rich in natural wonders, historic cities, imposing monuments and cultural complexity. Yet, from this wondrous palette, Insight has fashioned a harmonious vacation, steeped in luxury, layered in the Latin way of life. From Sugarloaf cityscapes to the thundering chasm of the Devil's Throat and in between, a string of exquisite cultural encounters enrich your journey.
In Rio, dine at the Michelin-starred Mee Restaurant where Executive Chef Kazuo Harada will take you on a journey of the most sophisticated Pan-Asian cuisine. When staying at your luxury hotel next to the thundering Iguassu Falls, you'll be welcomed by the indigenous Guarani people and hear tales of life in the jungle. The Belmond Copacabana Palace, home to stars and celebrities, is your five-star home overlooking its iconic beach.
Overview
South America is a vast continent, rich in natural wonders, historic cities, imposing monuments and cultural complexity. Yet, from this wondrous palette, Insight has fashioned a harmonious vacation, steeped in luxury, layered in the Latin way of life. From Sugarloaf cityscapes to the thundering chasm of the Devil's Throat and in between, a string of exquisite cultural encounters enrich your journey.
In Rio, dine at the Michelin-starred Mee Restaurant where Executive Chef Kazuo Harada will take you on a journey of the most sophisticated Pan-Asian cuisine. When staying at your luxury hotel next to the thundering Iguassu Falls, you'll be welcomed by the indigenous Guarani people and hear tales of life in the jungle. The Belmond Copacabana Palace, home to stars and celebrities, is your five-star home overlooking its iconic beach.
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Day 1: Welcome to Chile.
On arrival at Santiago International Airport, you will be met and transferred to your luxurious hotel. After checking in, Santiago's impressive blend of colonial and modern architecture is yours to explore. At 18:00, join your Travelling Concierge and fellow travellers for a Welcome Reception and opportunity to mingle over drinks and a light meal at nearby Café Lastarria. -
Day 2: The Sights of Santiago, Valparaiso and Wine Country.
Meet a Local Expert this morning for a city tour of the Chilean capital; highlights include the bustling Plaza de Armas, San Francisco Church and the busy Central Market. Next, head for the UNESCO-listed port of Valparaiso, with its historic hill neighbourhoods and trademark multicoloured houses. In the afternoon, spend time at the boutique Kingston Family Winery located in the Casablanca Valley. Enjoy an introduction to their exquisite cool climate wines topped off with a tasting. This evening is at leisure. -
Day 3: Fly to Buenos Aires.
Enjoy a leisurely morning before flying to Buenos Aires. In the evening, your Highlight Dinner with wine is at Piegari Carnes, known for its Argentine beef.
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Day 4: Beautiful Buenos Aires.
Get to know Buenos Aires with a Local Expert. Your comprehensive tour includes the city's best neighbourhoods, including Palermo, San Telmo and Recoleta, where a visit is made to the famous cemetery. See top attractions such as the Plaza de Mayo, Plaza de la Republica, Casa Rosada, the balcony made famous by Evita Peron, and the colourful Caminito street in the La Boca neighbourhood. Enjoy a guided visit to the splendid Belle Époque Teatro Colon, with its colossal staircase, mosaic floors and exquisite ironwork. As night falls, a delicious Highlight Dinner with live music, singers and the eletrically-charged dance of the Rojo Tango is an experience not to be forgotten. -
Day 5: Pampas, Estancias and Gauchos.
With its narrow colonial streets, churches, bars and museums, San Antonio de Areco remains one of the prettiest towns in the Pampas. Step into a world of riding boots and leather chaps at the stunning La Bamba de Areco Estancia, which has been reserved exclusively for your enjoyment. Enjoy a delicious asado Highlight Lunch and a taste of the life of an Argentinian gaucho, or cowboy. Gaze in awe as gauchos demonstrate their legendary equestrian skills with acrobatic riding, herding, racing and horse dancing. Back in Buenos Aires, the evening is free for you to sample some of the best restaurants in all of South America. -
Day 6: Iguassu Falls.
Fly to Iguassu Falls, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the great natural wonders of the world, straddling the Argentinian-Brazilian-Paraguayan border. You are in for a unique treat as a Local Expert takes you into a community of indigenous Guarani people. Meet a tribal representative and learn about daily life in the jungle. Head for the Argentinian side of the falls, where the meandering catwalks follow the booming waters to the unfathomable Devil's Throat. Located right alongside the tumbling waters, your luxurious resort is the only hotel inside the Brazilian Iguaçu National Park. Enjoy exclusive access to this magnificent sight in the evening, when the park is closed to other visitors. Enjoy dinner at your hotel.
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Day 7: The “Great Waters” of Iguassu Falls.
Join a Local Expert for a spectacular walk past thundering curtains of water and misty rainbows on the Brazilian side of the falls. Explore the base of the falls and see the impressive panoramic view of San Martin Island. At the Bird Park, walk in the company of toucans and macaws through extensive aviaries integrated into the lush subtropical forest. Your Travelling Concierge will be happy to assist you in planning the rest of your day. Perhaps take a helicopter flight over the arc of the cascading majesty or relax by the pool. -
Day 8: Rio de Janeiro, City of Sea and Samba.
Today, fly to vibrant Rio de Janeiro and transfer to your hotel on famous Copacabana Beach. The evening is your to settle in to the Rio way of life.
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Day 9: Exploring Rio de Janeiro.
Join a Local Expert on a cable care ride to the top of Sugarloaf Mountain. At the Confeitaria Colombo enjoy a Highlight Lunch. Visit one of Rio's many favelas, the countless cascades of shanty towns on the city's hillsides. Stop at the Maze, an iconic jazz club frequented by a steady stream of celebrities, and meet the owner, Bob Nadkarni, over a drink and fabulous views. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Brazillian Steak house followed by a show at the Ginga Tropical..
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Day 10: Farewell to Rio De Janeiro
Join your Local Expert on a train ride up Corcovado Hill to Christ the Redeemer, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the evening, toast your journey during a Farewell Celebration Dinner at Rio's Michelin starred restaurant, MEE.
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Day 11: Depart Rio de Janeiro.
A private transfer will take you to the Galeao Antonio Carlos Jobim International Airport. Alternatively, you may choose to extend your stay in Rio de Janeiro.
Request a Quote
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30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
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Intra-Air Included
Prices include economy airfare for any intra-trip flights required by this itinerary. For trip specific terms and conditions, please refer to the Dates & Prices tab.
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Important Visa Information
Visas are required for this trip. Please speak to your Travel Specialist at time of booking to assess your specific requirements. Visas cannot be issued upon entry to the country.
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Please Note: Yellow Fever
We encourage our guests to consult a physician prior to travel to receive any vaccinations you may need. The Center for Disease Control currently recommends that anyone traveling to Brazil be vaccinated against Yellow Fever. Because of current limitations in the availability of Yellow Fever vaccine in the United States, travelers may need to contact a Yellow Fever vaccine provider well in advance of travel.
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Definite Departure
| Depart Date | Return Date | Price | Discount | Availability | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 18 Sep 18 | 28 Sep 18 |
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$6,038pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 30 Oct 18 | 9 Nov 18 |
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$6,038pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 4 Dec 18 | 14 Dec 18 | $6,038pp | Request Quote Book Now |
Price is per person and is based on two people sharing a twin bedded room. Single rooms are available at a supplement.
Single Room Supplement: from $2,150.
Gratuities: Option to pre-pay gratuities for Travel Director and Driver $114 per person.
Intra-Air: Prices include economy airfare and related charges between Santiago - Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires - Iguassu Falls, and Iguassu Falls - Rio de Janeiro and require the purchase of round trip flights on LATAM between your gateway city and the itinerary's start and end gateway cities. If flying with another airline between your gateway city and the itinerary's start and end gateway cities, the above prices will be higher.
AARP Members are entitled to an exclusive Member Benefit Discount on all Grand European Travel vacations. Plus receive a free travel gift! Call Toll Free: 1-866-847-3858 for details.
Visas are required for this trip. Please speak to your Travel Specialist at time of booking to assess your specific requirements. Visas cannot be issued upon entry to the country.
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Professional Travel Director
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Sightseeing with Local Experts
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VIP Access
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WIFI on Coach and in Hotels
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Cultural Enrichment
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Expertly Selected Hotels
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Hotel Tips
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Most Meals
Meal Summary
1 Welcome Dinner (WD), 9 Full Breakfasts (FB) and 1 Continental Breakfast (CB), 2 Highlight Lunches (HL), 2 Highlight Dinners (HD), 1 Michelin Highlight Dinner (MHD), 1 Dinner (D) and 1 Celebration Dinner (CD).
Included Highlights
Signature Experiences
- Buenos Aires: At San Antonio de Areco, one of the prettiest towns in the Pampas, enjoy a delicious asado lunch at La Bamba de Areco Estancia and a glimpse into the life of an Argentinian gaucho during an equestrian show.
- Rio de Janeiro: Your Michelin-starred Highlight Dinner is served in the elegant surroundings of the Belmond Copacabana Palace's award winning restaurant, Mee, the vision of celebrity Chef Ken Hom and led by Executive Chef Kazuo Harada.
Sightseeing Highlights
- Iguassu Falls: Be welcomed into the community of the indigenous Guarani people, meet a tribal representative and learn about their culturally rich society, traditions and daily life in the jungle.
- Rio de Janeiro: Meet Bob Nadkarhi, founder of 'The Maze' and hear how he created the most famous jazz night club in all of South America.
- Rio de Janeiro: Partake in a stunning show that combines all the diversity of Brazil, extravagant costumes and enthralling music, songs and dance.
Request a Quote
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30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
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Intra-Air Included
Prices include economy airfare for any intra-trip flights required by this itinerary. For trip specific terms and conditions, please refer to the Dates & Prices tab.
-
Important Visa Information
Visas are required for this trip. Please speak to your Travel Specialist at time of booking to assess your specific requirements. Visas cannot be issued upon entry to the country.
-
Please Note: Yellow Fever
We encourage our guests to consult a physician prior to travel to receive any vaccinations you may need. The Center for Disease Control currently recommends that anyone traveling to Brazil be vaccinated against Yellow Fever. Because of current limitations in the availability of Yellow Fever vaccine in the United States, travelers may need to contact a Yellow Fever vaccine provider well in advance of travel.
Reviews
Request a Quote
-
30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
-
Intra-Air Included
Prices include economy airfare for any intra-trip flights required by this itinerary. For trip specific terms and conditions, please refer to the Dates & Prices tab.
-
Important Visa Information
Visas are required for this trip. Please speak to your Travel Specialist at time of booking to assess your specific requirements. Visas cannot be issued upon entry to the country.
-
Please Note: Yellow Fever
We encourage our guests to consult a physician prior to travel to receive any vaccinations you may need. The Center for Disease Control currently recommends that anyone traveling to Brazil be vaccinated against Yellow Fever. Because of current limitations in the availability of Yellow Fever vaccine in the United States, travelers may need to contact a Yellow Fever vaccine provider well in advance of travel.
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Passports and Visas
U.S. citizens traveling to Brazil, Chile and Argentina must have a current passport valid for six months beyond the conclusion of their trip. You can find information on how to apply for a passport here, and how to renew a passport here. Travelers visiting Brazil will also need an entry visa. We will send you application forms to complete to obtain your visa prior to departure. Visa costs and entry requirements can change at any time. Please visit travel.state.gov to learn more. You will not need a visa to visit Argentina or Chile.
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Currency
The currency in Brazil is the Real, in Chile is the Chilean Peso, and in Argentina is the Argentine Peso. It’s generally a good idea to carry some cash on you while you travel; however, you will be able to pay with your debit or credit card in many places and will likely find a better exchange rate once you’ve arrived in your destination. The most convenient way to obtain cash is to use your ATM card at local banks. It is important that you inform your financial institutions of your travel plans before you leave home so they don’t flag your purchases as potentially fraudulent charges.
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Cuisine
One of the most enjoyable parts of traveling is sampling the local cuisine. Brazilian cuisine varies by region but the country’s most popular dish by far is feijoada, a rich stew of black beans and several cuts of meat that is typically served with rice, sautéed greens and orange slices. Brazil’s national cocktail is the caipirihna, made with cachaça, lime, and sugar cane.
Argentine cuisine is known for its traditional asado (Argentine barbecue) and many beef-oriented dishes. Empanadas filled with meat and cheese make a delicious meal or snack with a glass of local malbec. For an inexpensive lunch, try a choripan sandwich made with chorizo. Pizza and pasta dishes are also popular and reflect the influence of Italian immigrants on the country’s cuisine. For something sweet, try any dessert served with creamy dulce de leche.
Chilean cuisine reflects Spanish influences and traditional indigenous dishes, many of which are seafood oriented due to the country's long coastline. Maize and quinoa accompany many meals, served along side barbecued or stewed meats.
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Packing
We suggest bringing a variety of lightweight clothing items that can be layered to save space in your suitcase and give you more options for how to dress. Sturdy walking shoes are important. Insect repellant and sunscreen may come in handy, as well as a light jacket and reusable water bottle. A more formal outfit will serve you if you plan on dining out in nicer restaurants. Keep in mind that your shoulders and knees should be covered while visiting religious sites. For more helpful information please refer to our Packing Tips & Packing List.
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Tipping
When dining out at restaurants on your trip it is appropriate to leave up to 10 percent gratuity.
At the end of your guided vacation, it’s customary to offer your motor coach driver and Travel Director a gratuity. We recommend the equivalent of $4 per person/per day for your driver and $6 per person/per day for your Travel Director. Recommended gratuity for a Local Host and Local Specialist is the equivalent of 1-2 dollars per person, paid at the conclusion of each guided visit. A convenient option is to prepay your tips before your departure.
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Baggage
Baggage on our trips is restricted to one large suitcase per person with dimensions not exceeding 30x19x10 inches and a maximum weight of 50 pounds. You are also permitted one piece of hand luggage, which should be small enough to fit under your coach seat or on the small overhead shelf compartment. Please note that luggage with an adjustable handle and wheels will not fit in the overhead compartment of the coach. Hotel porterage is included in your vacation.
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Health and Fitness
You will need to be comfortable on your feet, walking and standing for up to three hours in various weather conditions. All of our vacations involve walking, often on cobblestone and uneven surfaces in historic city centers. In order to get the most out of your vacation you need to be able to comfortably walk 1-3 miles unassisted in one day, be in good condition and be able to keep pace with the group.
If you need any medications, it is important that you bring enough to last you the whole trip and keep them in your carry-on bag while you travel.
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Insurance
We highly recommend our optional Travel Protection Plan, which allows you to cancel for any reason up to 24 hours before departure. The plan also includes trip interruption, baggage loss or delay, and medical and emergency assistance. Click here for a summary of coverage details, terms and conditions.
Request a Quote
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30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
-
Intra-Air Included
Prices include economy airfare for any intra-trip flights required by this itinerary. For trip specific terms and conditions, please refer to the Dates & Prices tab.
-
Important Visa Information
Visas are required for this trip. Please speak to your Travel Specialist at time of booking to assess your specific requirements. Visas cannot be issued upon entry to the country.
-
Please Note: Yellow Fever
We encourage our guests to consult a physician prior to travel to receive any vaccinations you may need. The Center for Disease Control currently recommends that anyone traveling to Brazil be vaccinated against Yellow Fever. Because of current limitations in the availability of Yellow Fever vaccine in the United States, travelers may need to contact a Yellow Fever vaccine provider well in advance of travel.
Optional Experiences are subject to change. Your Travel Director will supply you with a final list of Optional Experiences available on your trip. Optional Experiences cannot be booked online; they can be purchased during your trip through your Travel Director.
Rio De Janerio
Helicopter Sightseeing Flight Departing From The Lagoon
Adult Price: $230.00 | Child Price: $230.00
What could be better than a sightseeing tour of Rio de Janeiro from the air? Soar high over Rio with sweeping and unforgettable views of Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon, Jardim de Alah, Ipanema Beach, Arpoador Rock, Copacabana Fort, Copacabana Beach and Vermelha Beach overlooking Sugarloaf. Length of flight - About 8 minutes. (Minimum 3 Guests)
Iguassu Falls
Helicopter Sightseeing Over Iguassu Falls
Adult Price: $179.00 | Child Price: $179.00
Enjoy aerial views of both the Brazil and Argentina sides of the falls, national park and surrounding jungle. Capture great photos of the rivers flowing through what seems like never-ending forest! Fly close above the 275 waterfalls and the Iguassu River below while viewing Devil's Throat (the largest waterfall in the region). Your pilot will circle around the falls to allow each passenger to shoot photos from every possible angle. Length of flight - About 10 minutes. (No Minimum)
Iguassu Falls
Macuco Safari
Adult Price: $131.00 | Child Price: $66.00
Begin this adventure in open-air wagons as you work your way through lush sub-tropical forests. Then hike down the canyon where the Macuco Falls tumble over basalt cliffs into the Iguassu basin. Here, board a custom-designed inflatable motorboat for a 20-30 minute exhilarating ride to the base of the falls. Total duration approximately 2 hours. (No Minimum)
Request a Quote
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30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
-
Intra-Air Included
Prices include economy airfare for any intra-trip flights required by this itinerary. For trip specific terms and conditions, please refer to the Dates & Prices tab.
-
Important Visa Information
Visas are required for this trip. Please speak to your Travel Specialist at time of booking to assess your specific requirements. Visas cannot be issued upon entry to the country.
-
Please Note: Yellow Fever
We encourage our guests to consult a physician prior to travel to receive any vaccinations you may need. The Center for Disease Control currently recommends that anyone traveling to Brazil be vaccinated against Yellow Fever. Because of current limitations in the availability of Yellow Fever vaccine in the United States, travelers may need to contact a Yellow Fever vaccine provider well in advance of travel.
