Impressions of South America
This leisurely South America trip gives you Sugarloaf Mountain, the Christ the Redeemer statue and Iguassu Falls by day, with Samba fun in Rio and Tango in Buenos Aires by night.
You'll enjoy Insider moments like… learning to mix the perfect caipirinha–Brazil's citrusy national drink–as you enjoy a barbecue night at a local churrascaria, tasty barbecued meats and freshly made cocktails.
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Arrive Rio de Janeiro (4 Nights)
Bemvindo ao Rio de Janeiro. Upon arrival you will be met by a local host and taken to your lovely hotel. Enjoy your hotel's superb location overlooking Copacabana Beach just minutes from downtown Rio.
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Rio de Janeiro Sightseeing and At Leisure
Enjoy a leisurely morning before joining your Travel Director for an exploration of the cidade maravilhosa (marvelous city) and its many contrasts, from the 18th century aqueduct and colonial Candelaria Church to the 20th century opera house, Sambodromo, and city cathedral. Ascend Sugarloaf Mountain via cable car for astounding bay and city views followed by a festive Welcome Reception with your Travel Director and fellow travelers. -
Rio de Janeiro Sightseeing and At Leisure (1)
Board a classic cogwheel train for the journey to the summit of majestic Corcovado, site of the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. After admiring the panoramic views, head back down the mountain to see the song-inspiring Copacabana and Ipanema beaches. Spend the rest of the day at leisure. This evening, learn how to mix the perfect caipirinha, Brazil's national cocktail, and then indulge in a traditional barbecue Regional Meal at a local churrascaria. -
Rio de Janeiro At Leisure
Enjoy a full day to explore the wonders of Rio on your own. Your Travel Director will be happy to help you plan your day. Perhaps take a sailboat cruise along the coast, a helicopter ride over Copacabana or visit a nearby favela. -
Rio de Janeiro – Iguassu Falls (2 Nights)
Enjoy a morning at leisure to explore on your own. Perhaps a swim in the Atlantic sounds refreshing. This afternoon, visit a Samba school, a Cultural Insight, to see how the school operates and prepares for Carnival week. See Carnival props and if you desire, join a Samba dance lesson. Then take a flight to magnificent Iguassu Falls, straddling the border of Brazil, Argentina and Paraguay. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Iguassu National Park boasts one of the world's largest and most impressive waterfalls and is home to many rare and endangered species of flora and fauna. This evening, enjoy dinner with your travel companions at the hotel. -
Iguassu Falls Sightseeing and At Leisure
Enter Iguassu National Park and spend the morning exploring the Brazilian side of the cascades with a Local Specialist, including a scenic walk through the rainforest to the base of the falls. After enjoying lunch at a local restaurant with a view of the falls, return to your resort hotel for an afternoon at leisure. Take advantage of your resort's amenities or choose from a variety of optional experiences, including a jetboat ride to the base of the falls, helicopter flightseeing or a visit to a tropical bird reserve that is home to more than 500 species of birds. -
Iguassu Falls – Buenos Aires (3 Nights)
Cross the border into Argentina for a walk along a scenic catwalk to view the thunderous Devil's Throat Falls with a Local Specialist. Ride in an open air ecological jungle train for a different perspective of the mighty cascades. Then fly to Buenos Aires and arrive at your stylish hotel. Argentina's sizzling capital is renowned for its international designer boutiques, fine dining venues, museums, cultural pursuits and modern theaters. -
Buenos Aires Sightseeing and At Leisure
Embark with a Local Specialist on a guided tour of the passionate city where the Tango was born. See the Casa Rosada, Metropolitan Cathedral and other government buildings; the colorful neighborhood of La Boca; San Telmo and lovely Palermo, home to fashionable cafés and verdant parks. Stare in awe at the famous Teatro Colon, a landmark in Buenos Aires. Lastly, visit the Recoleta Cemetery, where Argentina's former first lady, Eva Peron (Evita), is buried. This evening, do as the locals do and linger over a Regional Meal and a chance for an authentic taste of world-renowned Argentinian beef. Cap off the evening watching the best Tango dancers in Buenos Aires perform, a Cultural Insight, and experience the passion and power of the traditional Tango, the most representative and beloved music in Argentina. -
Buenos Aires At Leisure
Relish a morning and afternoon at leisure to pursue your own interests in the 'Paris of South America'. The possibilities are endless. Delve into one of the country's finest museums at the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes, set in a lovely park in the Recoleta neighborhood. Follow in the footsteps of Argentina's most revered writer, Jorge Luis Borges, as you browse the many bookstores and sip a coffee at the famed Cafe Tortoni. If you'd like to experience a different side of Argentina, choose an optional trip into the countryside to a traditional estancia (ranch); share a drink with the local gauchos (cowboys), learn about their lives and marvel at their consummate horsemanship during a lively equestrian show before sitting down to a traditional parrillada (barbecue) lunch. Tonight, join your Travel Director and fellow travelers for an exclusive Be My Guest Farewell Dinner experience in Palermo Soho. You will be welcomed by a local family who are long-time residents of this now-trendy neighborhood. Be delighted, as they wine and dine you with homemade family recipes in the kitchen and discover the secrets of kneading country bread. Watch as your hosts demonstrate the art of typical Argentinian crafts. Spending time with this family will be an experience you won't soon forget. -
Depart Buenos Aires
Say hasta luego to Argentina today and transfer to the airport for your flight home. For your convenience, your rooms are reserved until 5 p.m. Or you may choose to extend your stay at the InterContinental Buenos Aires.
30 Day Refund Guarantee
Intra-Air Included
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Definite Departure
| Depart Date | Return Date | Price | Discount | Availability | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 Nov 17 | 12 Nov 17 |
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$3,567pp | Call 1-877-622-9109 | |||
| 1 Feb 18 | 10 Feb 18 |
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$3,295$2,999pp | Early PaymentPay by Jan 11 | Request Quote Book Now | ||
| 8 Mar 18 | 17 Mar 18 | $3,295$2,999pp | Early PaymentPay by Jan 11 | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 15 Mar 18 | 24 Mar 18 |
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$3,295$2,999pp | Early PaymentPay by Jan 11 | Request Quote Book Now | ||
| 22 Mar 18 | 31 Mar 18 | $3,295$2,999pp | Early PaymentPay by Jan 11 | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 5 Apr 18 | 14 Apr 18 | $3,295$2,999pp | Early PaymentPay by Jan 11 | Call 1-877-622-9109 | |||
| 12 Apr 18 | 21 Apr 18 |
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$3,295$2,999pp | Early PaymentPay by Jan 11 | Request Quote Book Now | ||
| 19 Apr 18 | 28 Apr 18 | $3,295$2,999pp | Early PaymentPay by Jan 11 | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 3 May 18 | 12 May 18 |
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$3,295$2,999pp | Early PaymentPay by Jan 11 | Request Quote Book Now | ||
| 17 May 18 | 26 May 18 | $3,295$2,999pp | Early PaymentPay by Jan 11 | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 7 Jun 18 | 16 Jun 18 | $3,295$2,999pp | Early PaymentPay by Jan 11 | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 19 Jul 18 | 28 Jul 18 |
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$3,295$2,999pp | Early PaymentPay by Jan 11 | Request Quote Book Now | ||
| 2 Aug 18 | 11 Aug 18 | $3,295$2,999pp | Early PaymentPay by Jan 11 | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 16 Aug 18 | 25 Aug 18 | $3,295$2,999pp | Early PaymentPay by Jan 11 | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 6 Sep 18 | 15 Sep 18 | $3,295$2,999pp | Early PaymentPay by Jan 11 | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 20 Sep 18 | 29 Sep 18 |
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$3,295$2,999pp | Early PaymentPay by Jan 11 | Request Quote Book Now | ||
| 4 Oct 18 | 13 Oct 18 | $3,295$2,999pp | Early PaymentPay by Jan 11 | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 18 Oct 18 | 27 Oct 18 | $3,295$2,999pp | Early PaymentPay by Jan 11 | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 1 Nov 18 | 10 Nov 18 |
|
$3,295$2,999pp | Early PaymentPay by Jan 11 | Request Quote Book Now | ||
| 15 Nov 18 | 24 Nov 18 | $3,295$2,999pp | Early PaymentPay by Jan 11 | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 29 Nov 18 | 8 Dec 18 | $3,295$2,999pp | Early PaymentPay by Jan 11 | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 6 Dec 18 | 15 Dec 18 | $3,295$2,999pp | Early PaymentPay by Jan 11 | 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 $1,175.
Guaranteed Room Share is not available on this trip.
Gratuities: Option to pre-pay gratuities for Travel Director and Driver $93 per person.
Land and Intra Air prices include economy air and air-related charges for flights between Rio de Janeiro-Iguassu and Iguassu-Buenos Aires and require purchase of round-trip air travel on LATAM airline between your gateway city and the itinerary's start and end gateway cities (ticket number required). 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.
Past Travelers: Save an additional 5% off the Land Only price of the vacation.
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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
9 full breakfasts, 1 lunch, 4 dinners.
Included Highlights
Hidden Treasure
- Enjoy at least one surprise Hidden Treasure.
Cultural Insight
- Learn about the Tango at a performance in Buenos Aires. Visit a Samba school to see how they prepare for Carnival.
Be My Guest
- Dine at the home of a local family in the Palermo Soho neighborhood.
Local Specialist
- For sightseeing in Iguassu and Buenos Aires.
Sightseeing Highlights
- City tour in Rio de Janeiro and Buenos Aires
- View Devil's Tower Falls
- Visit the Christ the Redeemer statue, Sugarloaf Mountain, Corcovado, Iguassu Falls and Recoleta Cemetery
- See the Teatro Colon, Copacabana Beach and the Casa Rosada
Reviews
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Passports and Visas
U.S. citizens traveling to Brazil 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.
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Currency
The currency in Brazil is the real and in Argentina is the 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 in Brazil and Argentina. 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.
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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 48 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.
BRAZILIAN AMAZON
Glide upstream through the rainforests of Brazil in search of lone tapirs, grunting capybaras, and the giant anaconda, before witnessing the dark waters of the Rio Negro merge spectacularly with the pale sandy tides of the Solimões - a Meeting of Waters that creates the mighty Amazon ecosystem and feeds magnificent biodiversity.
This locally hosted pre- and post-itinerary extension is only available in conjunction with Impressions of South America, Best of South America, South America Landscapes, South America Revealed, Icons of South America, and Cultures and Contrasts of South America.
Day 1: Arrive Manaus
Fly to Manaus, Brazil (international flight not included). Upon arrival you will be taken to your hotel, before a city tour. Visit the grand Palacio Rio Negro, form home of a rubber baron that is now a museum preserving the traditional Amazonian culture. Discover the floating harbor and nearby Customs House, the vibrant Mercado Municipal, and the famed opera house, constructed during the rubber boom of Manaus' golden age.
Hotel: Tropical Manaus
Day 2: Manaus - Amazon Ecopark Jungle Lodge (2 Nights)
This morning, travel upstream to the famous "Meeting of the Waters" and watch the dark water of the Rio Negro mix with the brown water of the Solimões as the mighty river flows eastward to the Atlantic. After lunch, choose to take an optional canoe trip down a smaller tributary and try your hand at piranha fishing, or just relax and soak up the jungle atmosphere. Later this afternoon, transfer to your lodge on the banks of the Rio Taruma.
Hotel: Amazon ECOPARK Jungle Lodge
Full Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: Amazon Exploration
After breakfast, embark on a guided walk through the rainforest. When you enter the dense jungle, imagine yourself as one of the first explorers of the Amazon - perhaps you'll spot the capybara, the world's largest rodent, or get a glimpse of an anaconda as it naps on the branches of a tree. Then visit the home of native Amazonians to learn about their culture and way of life. This evening, enjoy dinner at your lodge surrounded by jungle.
Full breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4: Amazon - Manaus - Rio de Janeiro
Visit Monkey Forest, a rehabilitation center and wildlife refuge, to watch the rescued monkeys eat and play. Then say goodbye to the Amazon as you return to Manaus Airport for your flight to Rio de Janeiro, where you will joing your guided vacation on Day 1. Guests joining from Icons of South America or South America Landscapes will end their vacation at Manaus Airport for their flight home.
Full Breakfast
2018 Pricing
$1,250 Per Person twin share
$25 Triple Room Discount
$275 Single Supplement
Land and Intra Air: These prices include economy air and air-related charges for flights between Manaus and Rio de Janeiro for the pre-itinerary extension, and between Rio de Janeiro and Manaus for the post-itinerary option and require the purchase of an eligible guided vacation.
Please note that when booking this package as a pre-extension. we recommend you purchase an extra night in Manaus if your flight arrives during the early morning hours, to ensure your hotel room is available for immediate occupancy.
Guaranteed Room Share is not available on this extension.
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.
Iguassu Falls
Bird Park
Adult Price: $48.00 | Child Price: $24.00
This family owned park is home to more than 900 native birds from 150 species. Enjoy a self-guided walking tour along a well-marked trail through subtropical forests. Enter aviaries to get more of an up close and personal view of the birds. Total duration is approximately 2 1/2 hours. (No Minimum)
Buenos Aires
Fiesta Guacha With Bbq Lunch
Adult Price: $147.00 | Child Price: $147.00
Enjoy a great day as you head out into the pampas to visit an authentic 3,000 acre (1200 hectare) working estancia (Argentinean ranch) that dates back to the late 19th century. A BBQ will be served family style by Gauchos. Enjoy activities throughout the day including a folklore show, carriage rides and horse demonstrations. Total duration is approximately 7 hours. (No Minimum). For Private Trafalgar Transportation, a Minimum of 15 Guests is Required.
Rio De Janerio
Guanabara Bay Cruise
Adult Price: $58.00 | Child Price: $35.00
Spend two hours sailing Guanabara Bay on a schooner. Take in the beautiful views of Rio de Janeiro with Sugar Loaf Mountain towering in the distance. Pass the bay's islands and forts as you sail by picture postcard settings. Total duration is approximately 3 hours. (No Minimum)
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)
Rio De Janerio
Samba Show
Adult Price: $112.00 | Child Price: $58.00
No visit to Rio de Janeiro is complete without experiencing the glamour and rhythm of a colorful samba show. Feel the spirit of Rio’s world-famous Carnival as you’re treated to a lively extravaganza of Samba song-and-dance. You’ll be caught up in the excitement of this cultural journey as you watch a light show and a stage full of beautiful dancers. This exciting mix of percussion and samba dance builds to a grand finale with a Carnival parade on stage. Total duration of this outing is five hours. Not available on Sundays. Minimum of 10 guests for a private program.
Rio De Janerio
Santa Teresa Walking Tour
Adult Price: $41.00 | Child Price: $28.00
Discover the charm and beauty of Santa Teresa, which originated around a convent during the 16th Century. Once home to upper-class residents, Santa Teresa is now home to many artists with studios, galleries, museums and inviting eateries. Admire the bohemian atmosphere and beautiful architecture. Learn about the history of the area as you make your way around the neighborhood with your guide. Located on a high hill overlooking Rio, you'll have a perfect view of the city and bay below. Total duration approximately 3 ½ hours. (Minimum 6 Guests)
Buenos Aires
Tigre Delta
Adult Price: $63.00 | Child Price: $63.00
Head to the northern outskirts of Buenos Aires to the lush countryside of the Tigre Delta on this outing. This area is a popular weekend getaway for Buenos Aires residents. The delta features pretty scenery, lovely summer residences, relaxing vibe, yachting and a chance to see another way of Argentine life. Your tour includes a cruise on the delta and if you are visiting on Saturdays, you can stroll through the local outdoor market. Total duration approximately 4 hours. (No Mimium)
Rio De Janerio
Visit To A Favela
Adult Price: $36.00 | Child Price: $19.00
Visit one of Rio de Janeiro's hillside favelas on this half-day educational tour. See the day-to-day lifestyles of locals who live in Rocinha, one of Rio’s many dense favelas. Along the way, stop at a community school where there is an opportunity to purchase handicrafts made by children. With a local expert guide, you’ll travel inside the favela, interact with locals and gain a new understanding of Brazilian society. Total duration approximately 4 hours. (No Minimum)
