Delve into the historic traditions, trendy neighborhoods and modern ambiance of Buenos AiresTake in amazing views and hear the roar from inside the slowly advancing Perito Moreno GlacierRelax with a day on your own to delve into the Patagonian steppe by Lago ArgentinoExplore Santiago on an insightful professionally guided tourHave amazing outdoor experiences exploring lakes, lagoons, waterfalls, glaciers, hills, and peaks in Torres del Paine National ParkSavor the flavors of world-renown Argentine and Chilean cuisine and wines at your leisure
Itinerary
Day
1
SAT I BUENOS AIRES
Upon arrival in Buenos Aires you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure to become familiar with this cosmopolitan city that showcases European influences in its culture, cuisine, architecture, and more. During the day, many attractions beckon, from museums, art galleries, and shops, to parks, tree-lined boulevards, and amazing restaurants.
Day
2
SUN I BUENOS AIRES
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel, then get in touch with the birth city of the Tango. This is the perfect tour to discover the charm of Argentina’s capital, from the chic districts of Recoleta and Palermo, to historic Plaza de Mayo, and on to architectural icons such as the opera house Teatro Colon, the Metropolitan Cathedral, and the palace of Congress. After lunch, the tour continues with visits to old town San Telmo, home of the city’s aristocracy until the late 19th century; Caminito street, in La Boca, the colorful shelter for Italian immigrants; and the thriving restaurant scene at the Puerto Madero waterfront. This evening, enjoy an unforgettable dinner and show at Aljibe Tango. Surrender to the magic and charm of the sanguine music while enjoying the best of its varied gastronomic offers. Round trip transfers are included. (B,D)
Day
3
MON I BUENOS AIRES
Start your day with breakfast at your hotel and then get ready to explore the city at your own pace or join one of the many optional tours that are available. (B)
Day
4
TUE I BUENOS AIRES I EL CALAFATE
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to El Calafate. Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. (B)
Day
5
WED I EL CALAFATE I PERITO MORENO GLACIER I EL CALAFATE
Power up with breakfast at your hotel and get ready for a full day excursion to Perito Moreno Glacier in Glacier National Park. On this active outdoor excursion, explore the park and observe the glacier just steps away while listening to the thunderous sounds of the cracking ice. If you prefer, take a boat tour to observe the glaciers instead. The floating icebergs are incredibly beautiful and will make your trip here an unforgettable experience. (B)
Day
6
THU I EL CALAFATE
Have breakfast at your hotel and then take your time to experience the treasures of this fascinating place with a day at leisure to explore the area at your own pace. Calafate is located in the Patagonian steppe and on the border of Lago Argentino, Argentina’s biggest lake. Consider joining in an optional excursion to see some of the remote area glaciers or opt to take a spectacular bike ride out to the lake to discover the natural gems of Patagonia on your own. (B)
Day
7
FRI I EL CALAFATE I PUERTO NATALES
This morning, board your bus and set out for Chile. The approximately four-hour trip will take you to Puerto Natales, Chile, at the base of Torres del Paine National Park. Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel and have the remainder of the day at leisure. (B)
Day
8
SAT I PUERTO NATALES I TORRES DEL PAINE NATIONAL PARK I PUERTO NATALES
After breakfast, depart from your hotel and visit Milodon Cave, featuring three caverns and a rocky conglomerate called “Silla del Diablo” or “Devil’s Chair.” Head to Torres del Paine National Park where you will experience a spectacular reserve at the end of the world. In this protected area, you will find a fertile combination of lakes, lagoons, waterfalls, glaciers, hills, and peaks. Inside, the road is surrounded with dozens of lagoons contrasting with hills and snowcapped mountains. A stop will be made for lunch during the excursion. On the way back, head to Sarmiento Lake viewpoint to take a great picture of Torres del Paine National Park. (B,L)
Day
9
SUN I PUERTO NATALES I PUNTA ARENAS I SANTIAGO
Start the day with breakfast at your hotel then transfer to the bus station and head to Punta Arenas airport for your flight to Santiago de Chile. Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Enjoy your afternoon at leisure to explore this city of contrasts with remains of its colonial past in stark contrast with the ultramodern, high-rise buildings of its financial center, or participate in an optional excursion. (B)
Day
10
MON I SANTIAGO
After breakfast, delve into Santiago on an insightful city tour. Santiago is a very cosmopolitan city that blends old-world traditions with modernity. You will see the origins of the city at the Plaza de Armas, the Cathedral, the Post Office, and the Municipality of Santiago. The tour will continue to the Government Palace where you can stroll through some of the most traditional streets and neighborhoods. Later you will head east to view the modern buildings that have transformed the city. (B)
Day
11
TUE I SANTIAGO TO USA (OR EXTEND YOUR STAY)
Savor breakfast at your hotel before your transfer to the airport to board your flight back to the USA. (B)