Experience the Best of Southern Patagonia, Northern Argentina plus the Beaches of Brazil
Begin your holiday by exploring the charming streets of Santiago, a city framed by the Andes and known for its leafy neighbourhoods, lively markets and thriving culinary scene. From here, travel south into the beautiful Chilean Lake District, where deep blue lakes and forested hillsides set a tranquil tone before you continue to the dramatic landscapes of Torres del Paine National Park. Crossing the border into Argentina, you will then visit the remarkable Perito Moreno Glacier before heading to the Swiss-style town of Bariloche to experience its scenic lakes and mountain landscapes.
Your journey continues in Buenos Aires, where elegant boulevards, colourful barrios and a vibrant arts scene showcase the energy of Argentina’s capital. From here, travel north into the country’s striking northwest, a region shaped by red rock canyons, salt flats and high-altitude lagoons. With its blend of dramatic scenery and deep-rooted culture, it offers a fascinating contrast to the southern landscapes explored earlier in the journey.
To conclude your adventure, experience the power and beauty of Iguazú Falls before flying to Brazil for a relaxed finale by the coast. Spend time enjoying Rio de Janeiro's iconic viewpoints and lively beachfronts before unwinding on the golden sands of Búzios. It is a memorable ending to a journey that brings together some of South America’s most inspiring landscapes, cultures and natural wonders.
Visit regions in Argentina, Brazil & Chile
Accommodation detailed in itinerary
See details in itinerary below
27 breakfasts and 2 lunches
What you'll experience
- Discover the charms, boutiques and restaurants of Santiago: Explore lively neighbourhoods, leafy parks and a thriving food scene framed by views of the Andes.
- Explore the crystal blue lakes of the beautiful Chilean Lake District: Wander through forests, volcanic landscapes and serene waters that define this picturesque region.
- Be inspired by the dramatic scenery of southern Patagonia and Torres del Paine:
Take in soaring peaks, turquoise lakes and open Patagonian plains in one of South America’s most celebrated national parks. - Visit one of Argentina’s biggest attractions, the Perito Moreno Glacier: Experience the scale and power of this vast ice giant as it creaks, groans and calves into the surrounding waters.
- See the crystal blue lakes and dramatic mountains of Bariloche:
Discover scenic viewpoints, chocolate shops and alpine style architecture in this charming Patagonian town. - Discover the sights and sounds of Buenos Aires: Stroll along elegant boulevards, explore historic districts and enjoy the city’s vibrant café and arts culture.
- See the red rock mountains and dramatic scenery of northwest Argentina: Travel through colourful canyons, traditional towns and landscapes shaped by centuries of wind and time.
- Visit the almighty Iguazú Falls: Witness hundreds of cascades thundering through lush rainforest, creating one of the continent’s most unforgettable natural sights.
- Discover the vibrant, samba filled streets of Rio de Janeiro:
Enjoy iconic beaches, lively neighbourhoods and panoramic viewpoints overlooking one of the world’s most exciting cities. - Enjoy three nights relaxing on the beaches of Búzios: Unwind on golden sands, swim in calm bays and soak up the laid back coastal charm of this elegant Brazilian resort town.
What's Included
- International flights
- 26 nights’ accommodation as detailed
- 29 meals: 27 breakfasts and 2 lunches
- Transfers and tours as per itinerary
- Domestic flights as per itinerary
Prices from £9,199pp
Excludes:
- Meals not indicated in your itinerary
- Local departure taxes payable locally
- Where applicable locally payable car hire-related charges
- Items of a personal nature such as laundry and drinks etc
- Tips for guides and drivers (discretionary)
- Camera or video fees at any sites
- Travel insurance
Quick Itinerary
Southern Explorer 29-day Itinerary
Days 1-3 UK - Santiago
Today you will depart the UK on your international flight to Santiago, Chile.
Upon arrival in Santiago, you will spend two nights exploring the capital city of Chile. Enjoy a fascinating half-day city tour on your first morning and learn about the fascinating multi-cultural history of Chile which has shaped what the country has become today. Your guide will also suggest great places to see with the rest of your time.
With the rest of your time in the city, you could head up the San Cristobal hill for a great view over the city or discover one of the city's many parks, art galleries and museums.
Days 4-6 Chilean Lake District
Today you will fly to Puerto Montt for the Chilean Lake District. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to the lakeside town of Puerto Varas where you will stay at a centrally located hotel.
On your first day, you will join a full-day tour to the beautiful Chiloé Island. After taking the ferry across you will continue to the bay of Ancud. There you will take time to explore the community, the local craft and fish market and the famous San Antonio fortress. If it is within the season, you will then continue to see the Penguin Colony at Punihuil Cove.
With the rest of your time in the Lakes, you may decide to enjoy one of the many adventure activities on offer or just relax and admire the view!
Days 7-9 Puerto Natales & Torres del Paine
Today you will fly onto Punta Arenas in the depths of Southern Patagonia. You will be met at the airport and transferred to the town of Puerto Natales where you will stay for three nights in a centrally located hotel.
On your first day, you will join a full-day tour of the famous Torres Del Paine. The tour will take you to a number of the highlights in the park including Lago Grey and various excellent viewpoints for the three Torres. Your guide will tell you all about the park and what makes it unique as well as point out the unique wildlife as you come across it. It's a day full of dramatic snow-capped mountains, stunning scenery and beautiful lakes and glaciers.
With the rest of your time in Puerto Natales, you may decide to try out one of the many adventure activities in the surrounding area or relax around town.
(Option to stay inside Torres del Paine National Park available – please ask your Travel Specialist for more details)
Days 10-11 El Calafate & the Perito Moreno Glacier
Today you will take a scenic coach journey over the Andes to El Calafate where you will stay for two nights. You will discover the hugely impressive sight of the Perito Moreno glacier on a full-day tour which will take you as close to the face of it as you can get. If you still want to get closer speak to your Latin Routes Travel Specialist about trekking on the ice itself (not included)
Days 12-14 Bariloche & the Lakes
Fly from El Calafate to Bariloche to see the amazing scenery of Argentina’s Lake District. You will spend three nights at a lakeside hotel near to town.
Enjoy a half-day Scenic Surroundings tour which will head out of town to some of the best viewpoints in the surrounding area. Make sure you don’t forget your camera for photos of crystal clear blue lakes set against a backdrop of snow-capped Andes Mountains. With the rest of your time, you can discover more highlights of the region for yourself.
Days 15-16 Buenos Aires
Fly to Buenos Aires for two nights in the home of the tango. Enjoy a fascinating Half Day City Tour on your first morning and learn about the fascinating history of Argentina which has shaped what the country has become today. You will also discover great places to see with the rest of your time.
With the rest of your time in the city, you could discover one of the city's many art galleries or museums. If your stay falls over a Sunday, you could visit the famous San Telmo Sunday Market which is home to a huge range of local artisan stalls, live music, tango and a buzzing atmosphere.
Days 17-19 Salta & the Northwest
On arrival in Salta, you will have a half-day walking tour of the city, taking in the markedly Hispanic architecture, with one-storey houses and narrow pavements.
On your second day, you will embark on a two-day, one-night tour of the Humahuaca Gorge, Salt Flats & Hornocal.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Humahuaca Gorge offers dramatic scenery of multi-coloured canyons and sweeping desert valleys mixed with historical ruins and Quechan villages. Sit and admire Hornocal, the mountain of 14 colours, take in the flat white landscape of the salt flats and explore the village of Purmamarca, at the base of the Seven Colours Hill.
You will spend one more night in Salta before heading back to Iguazu Falls.
Days 20-21 Iguazu Falls
Today you will fly on to Puerto Iguazu to discover the almighty Iguazu Falls where you will spend two nights. Enjoy a full-day tour to the Argentinian side of the Iguazu Falls to discover one of the world’s most beautiful waterfalls. With the rest of your time, you can explore the national parks or try one of the numerous adventure activities on offer.
Days 22-24 Rio de Janeiro
Fly from the Iguazu to Rio de Janeiro for three nights in the 'Marvellous City'. Enjoy an exciting Half Day tour to see Corcovado (Statue of Christ) and the Tijuca Rainforest. With the rest of your time, you could visit the historic downtown area or visit the beautiful Botanical Gardens. Alternatively, you would be forgiven for spending your time sipping Caprhinias on the beautiful white sands of Copacabana Beach!
Days 25-29 Búzios - Rio - UK
In the morning you will transfer to Búzios. Búzios is a relaxed town on a peninsula that is home to over 20 stunning beaches. Here you can finish your holiday with three nights of relaxing on a beach in the famous Brazilian sunshine or perhaps you would prefer to take a schooner trip for some world-class snorkelling.
Transfer to the airport for your onward flight. You will land back in the UK from Brazil on Day 29.
Speak to a dedicated South America Holiday Specialist
All our itineraries can be tailored to your unique requirements. Enquire about our Southern Explorer holiday and let us plan your perfect Latin American adventure.What Makes a Latin Routes Holiday Truly Unforgettable?
Every journey we plan is truly individual – created just for you, by our expert team. Whether you’re dreaming of wildlife, culture, food or landscapes, 5* luxury or off-grid adventure, we’ll design a Latin American holiday that’s truly unforgettable for all the right reasons.
We’re recognised by both the industry and our clients for our outstanding personalised service.
We design every trip around you: your interests, your must-sees, your perfect holiday.
Every recommendation is shaped by real experience, true passion and specialist care.
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