South America adventure trip in Uruguay, Argentina, Brazil

Transfer airport or port Montevideo – hotel. After arriving in Montevideo, you will be taken to the hotel. Montevideo is a city full of nature, where a million trees provide pleasant shade in the summer on its streets, and numerous green parks and squares invite you to linger. With over 20 kilometers of coastline, the city is surrounded by charming beaches, picturesque bays, and rocky shores. Locals enjoy strolling along the seaside promenade – the Rambla – admiring the ocean or fishing. A thermos is always on hand to pour the national drink 'Mate.' The cityscape impresses with fascinating contrasts between historical and modern buildings, and many places remind you of the former glory when Uruguay was known as the 'Switzerland of South America.' The city exudes a distinctive melancholic charm that captivates visitors. While tango has been revived as a tourist attraction in the neighboring city of Buenos Aires, it continues to thrive in Montevideo and can still be found in authentic, quaint bars and cafés. Mid-range: Overnight stay at Hotel Vivaldi 3* or similar (standard room). Comfort class: Overnight stay at Hotel Aloft 4* or similar (Aloft room).

Included meals: Breakfast. Half-day city tour (4h). Your excursion today begins with a drive along the Rambla, a 22 km long coastal road on the banks of the Rio de la Plata, heading towards Carrasco. Along the way, you will see the Pittamiglio Castle, designed by an alchemist. Next, you will visit Plaza Virgilio, which has a monument for the fallen marines. From here, you have a great view of the city, ideal for taking unique souvenir photos. Then, you will continue to the upscale residential area of Carrasco, today one of the most exclusive neighborhoods in Montevideo. Here, you can admire impressive villas and expansive gardens, reminiscent of the time when the area was an elegant seaside resort. The next stop will be at Parque Batlle y Ordóñez with its monument 'La Carreta' (the wagon), followed by a drive past the famous Centenario football stadium, where the first World Cup final took place. Next, you will head to Mercado Agrícola, an old fruit and vegetable market located in a historic building from 1913 and recently restored. The wide selection of products makes a visit worthwhile: here you will find many stores, restaurants, and stalls that offer both local and international delicacies. The next stop is the Palacio Legislative, the seat of the Uruguayan parliament, which you will admire from the outside. The impressive government building is a source of pride for Uruguay. It was constructed between 1908 and 1925 from marble in 52 different colors and from 12 different types of wood. To round off the tour, you will explore the old town (Ciudad Vieja) of Montevideo on foot, where the architecture and art of the 19th and 20th centuries await you. You begin at the 'Independence Square' with the former presidential palace (built in 1842) and the Palacio Salvo (built in 1922), which was the tallest building in South America at the time of its completion. Close by stands Teatro Solis, built in 1856, which has recently shone in full splendor after its renovation. The next stop is the 'Plaza de la Constitución' (Plaza Matriz). Here you will find the best-preserved buildings from the Spanish colonial period, such as the old town hall (Cabildo) from 1804 and the Spanish neoclassical cathedral. An Italian influence in the architecture is also noticeable, for example, in the fountain of Gianni Ferrari. The last stop is the harbor market (Mercado del Puerto), an impressive old market hall; a lively place full of life, where local artists and street musicians perform. Additionally, numerous parrilladas compete for the guests' favor with exquisite grilled meats. Afterward, you will be transferred to the hotel or have the opportunity to explore the city on your own. The beautiful old town of Montevideo is excellent for discovering on foot: here you will find many interesting museums, artists showcasing their works, cozy cafés, and restaurants. A lunch at Mercado del Puerto is definitely recommended! The afternoon is at your leisure. Optionally, you can book the following excursions: Optional: Old town with Mate tasting. Accompany your guide for a tasting of the famous Mate beverage, made by pouring 'Yerba Mate' (dried and crushed leaves of the Illex Paraguariensis shrub), which is one of the most significant and popular traditions in Uruguay. Visit a local restaurant where you can enjoy a Mate tasting along with homemade pastries from the region. Your guide will explain how the drink is prepared and share more interesting details about Uruguay's national drink. Or Optional: Wine tasting at Bodega Carrau (approximately 3h 30min). Min: 2 persons - Max: 10 persons. Carrau is one of the oldest wineries in the country, founded in 1887 and restored by the Carrau family. The colonial estate and picturesque park with the vineyards make it a perfect place to learn about some of the best wines in South America. The winery represents the century-old family tradition in a dreamlike landscape and reflects the growth of Uruguay's emerging top wines. The Carrau family plays a central role in this story, which originates from Catalonia. Bodegas Carrau always strives for the highest quality. The craftsmanship lies in the family tradition, passed down from generation to generation. The winemakers still preserve a valuable document showing that Don Francisco Carrau Vehils acquired the family's first vineyard in Catalonia on April 2, 1752. Look forward to a tour of the winery and a tasting of 4 wines, accompanied by empanadas (stuffed pastries). Note: Minimum 2 people, maximum 10 people. The service includes private transfers and a guide. The tour and the English-speaking guide at the winery will be shared with other international guests. The winery is closed on Saturdays and Sundays. Mid-range: Overnight stay at Hotel Vivaldi 3* or similar (standard room). Comfort class: Overnight stay at Hotel Aloft 4* or similar (Aloft room).

Included meals: Breakfast. Full-day excursion to Piriápolis and Punta del Este (approximately 8h 30min). Today, you can expect a full-day excursion to Piriápolis and Punta del Este. From the hotel, you will drive through the residential neighborhoods of Montevideo and approximately 110 km to Piriápolis, one of Uruguay's most famous beach resorts. You will see the picturesque beach promenade and the famous Hotel Argentino. The drive continues up to Mount San Antonio, where you will stop to enjoy the breathtaking panoramic view. Next, you will head to Punta del Este, the glamorous resort and meeting point for the international jet set. The first stop is in Portezuelo and Punta Ballena, where you can enjoy spectacular views of the coast and take excellent photos. Just before reaching Punta del Este, you will arrive at Casapueblo, the former home and studio of the famous artist Carlos Paez Vilaró. Here, you will take a short break (entrance not included). The bright white building, reminiscent of Greek Santorini, now houses a hotel, an art gallery, and a museum. From here, you can enjoy the splendid view and get a first glimpse of Punta del Este. Afterwards, you will continue to Punta del Este, driving through the elegant residential neighborhoods. You will visit La Barra with its unique hanging bridges and drive along some breathtaking sandy beaches into the center of Punta del Este. There you will have the chance to explore the main shopping street and the harbor and discover other attractions. After some free time to have lunch and explore the city on your own, the return drive to the hotel follows. Depending on available time, the following excursion can be optionally booked through our local office: Optional: Dinner and show at El Milongón (approximately 3h). Min: 2 persons - Max: 10 persons. Enjoy a dinner at El Milongón, located in the heart of Montevideo and offering guests an authentic insight into the cultural traditions of Uruguay. An unforgettable show awaits you, full of surprises, where you will get to know 'Candombe' (the most significant dance of African origin), as well as tango, milonga, and various folk dances. Around 35 singers, musicians, and dancers ensure varied entertainment while you enjoy your dinner. Note: Minimum 2 participants. The venue does not close for private travelers or groups (it is always shared with other guests). The venue is closed on Sundays. The excursion includes private transfers with a guide. Mid-range: Overnight stay at Hotel Vivaldi 3* or similar (standard room). Comfort class: Overnight stay at Hotel Aloft 4* or similar (Aloft room).

Included meals: Breakfast, lunch. Visit to Pizzorno Winery including wine tasting and lunch (approximately 4h 30min). Transfer Pizzorno – Colonia del Sacramento (approximately 2h 30min). Today you will be taken to Pizzorno Estates, which was founded in 1910 as a family business in the village of Canelón Chico. The fourth generation of the winemaking family places great emphasis on environmental awareness, and their philosophy is based on love and respect for nature. Canelón Chico is located about 40 km from Montevideo and is among the most productive agricultural regions of the country, where mainly wine, vegetables, and fruits are grown. The picturesque surroundings of the winery are surrounded by native vegetation. The winery extends over 21 hectares of gentle hilly landscape with permeable soils that are ideal for the cultivation of Tannat, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Malbec, Arinarnoa, Marselan, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, and Muscat Hamburg. At Pizzorno Winery, you will be guided through the vineyards, winery, and cellar by an experienced oenologist or sommelier. Here you have the opportunity to learn about all the steps of winemaking at Pizzorno up close. Afterwards, you will enjoy a tasting of four different wines and olive oils, accompanied by four matching appetizers. To finish, a delicious three-course lunch awaits you, with a matching wine served with each course. After the meal, you will have time to relax at the winery. Note: The visit may take place together with other travelers. The winery staff does not speak German, but your guide will be available at all times. After visiting the winery, you will continue to Colonia del Sacramento. Note: Posada Don Antonio does not have an elevator, so you will reach the rooms via some stairs. Colonia del Sacramento, originally founded by the Portuguese, is the oldest European settlement in present-day Uruguay. The old town, with its low colonial houses, wrought-iron grilles, quiet squares, and plenty of greenery, exudes the charm of a miniature town from the colonial era. Colonia del Sacramento is the oldest city in Uruguay, and its historic old town has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Overnight stay at Hotel Posada Don Antonio 3* or similar (superior room). Comfort class: Overnight stay at Hotel Posada Plaza Mayor 4* or similar (senior room).

Included meals: Breakfast. City tour in Colonia (2h 30min). Ferry crossing Colonia – Buenos Aires (approximately 1h) - on group basis without guide. Transfer Pier Buenos Aires – hotel. After breakfast, the city tour of Colonia del Sacramento, the oldest city in Uruguay and UNESCO World Heritage Site, begins. You will explore the charming colonial streets and squares, such as Calle de los Suspiros (Street of Sighs), Matriz Church, 'Portón del Campo' (the former city gate), and Plaza Mayor 25 de Mayo. This historic city transports you to the past with its well-preserved colonial buildings, cobblestone streets, and historical monuments such as the lighthouse and the bullring. Colonia del Sacramento is located on the banks of the Rio de la Plata and offers picturesque views of the water. The tour ends at the pier, where you will board the Buquebus ferry for approximately a 1-hour ferry crossing to Buenos Aires. On the other side of the Rio de la Plata, you will arrive in Buenos Aires, where you will be transferred from the pier to the hotel. Buenos Aires, the vibrant capital of Argentina, combines European elegance with Latin American passion. It is known for its cosmopolitan flair, exquisite cuisine, and the diversity of its neighborhoods, ranging from modern to historical. Buenos Aires is also the birthplace of tango, and the city offers an exciting nightlife, numerous cultural attractions, museums, art galleries, and green spaces. The fascinating barrios like San Telmo, Palermo, and Recoleta give the city its unique character. Optionally, you can book another excursion through the office: Optional: Argentine culinary experience (3h 30min). Embark on a culinary journey to discover Argentine cuisine and culture. This entertaining experience, where you dine with international travelers, starts with a welcome drink and Patagonian trout tartare. You will learn how to create your own empanadas and receive an introduction to the traditional 'repulgue' technique. Following that, a typical Argentine picada will be served before you enjoy one of the best Argentine steaks. The meal will be accompanied by Malbec wines from Mendoza, and to finish, you will learn how to prepare the national delicacy 'Alfajores' and the national drink 'Mate'. A perfect opportunity to learn about Argentine traditions in a relaxed atmosphere. Note: This excursion is conducted in English, alongside other international travelers. Optional vegetarian, pescatarian, and gluten-free options can be requested. Mid-range: Overnight stay at Hotel Loi Suites Esmeralda 3* or similar (1-room apartment). Comfort class: Overnight stay at Hotel Grand Brizo Buenos Aires 4* or similar (comfort room).

Included meals: Breakfast, dinner. City tour Buenos Aires with a stop at a historic café (5h). Tango show and dinner at Viejo Almacén – on a group basis, English-speaking. Experience the fascination of Buenos Aires, the city that birthed tango! Your city tour begins with a visit to Avenida de Mayo, leading to the famous Plaza de Mayo. Here you will see some of Argentina's most famous landmarks: the Casa Rosada (seat of government), the Metropolitan Cathedral, and the old town hall. You will enter the impressive Metropolitan Cathedral, one of the most important Catholic sites in the country, which houses the mausoleum of national hero General San Martín. Pope Francis, as the Archbishop of Buenos Aires, held his masses here. Buenos Aires's vibrant café culture will be introduced to you during a stop at a traditional café, where you will enjoy a cup of coffee and snacks. These cafés are an important part of social life in the city and a meeting place for locals. The tour continues into the historic San Telmo district, known for its antique shops and the Sunday antique market at Plaza Dorrego. You will then drive to the colorful La Boca, the famous neighborhood with the artist street El Caminito, where painters display their iconic tango paintings. Along the way, you will cross Avenida 9 de Julio, the widest street in the world, and pass by the imposing Teatro Colón, one of the most important opera houses in the world. In the evening, you will be taken to the tango house Viejo Almacén. Tango, which originated in the late 19th century when European immigrants brought their music, developed into a unique genre in Buenos Aires. The night begins with a delicious dinner in the restaurant of Viejo Almacén. Afterward, you will cross the street to the show house, where you will experience an impressive tango show. The show includes various styles of tango and milonga, performed by talented artists. After the show, you will be taken back to the hotel. Note: The excursion takes place on a group basis. Transfers to the tango house and back are carried out with other travelers and a Spanish-speaking driver. The tango house has English-speaking staff. Mid-range: Overnight stay at Hotel Loi Suites Esmeralda 3* or similar (1-room apartment). Comfort class: Overnight stay at Hotel Grand Brizo Buenos Aires 4* or similar (comfort room).

Included meals: Breakfast. The day is at your leisure – the following excursions can be optionally booked through our SAT office on-site: Optional: Excursion to Tigre and the Delta of the Paraná River (4 hours) - on a group basis with an English-speaking guide. The Tigre Delta is an incredibly attractive area with its characteristic rivers, streams, and numerous green islands. The deposits of the Paraná River, which give the water its striking brown-red color, shape the islands of the delta. You leave the city heading north and first reach San Isidro, an elegant neighborhood on the outskirts of Buenos Aires. The drive continues towards the Tigre Delta, a recreation area for the Porteños, as the residents of Buenos Aires are called, with lavish summer residences, yacht clubs, and rowing clubs. During an approximately one-hour boat tour, you will explore the Tigre Delta with its rivers and countless densely vegetated islands. Note: Transfer and boat ride are conducted on a group basis with international travelers and an English-speaking guide. For an additional fee, only the transfers can also be booked privately with a German-speaking guide. The tour does not end at the hotel but optionally at one of the following locations (the endpoint will be discussed with the guide on-site). Optional: Full-day excursion to Estancia Santa Susana – on a group basis with an English-speaking guide. You will leave Buenos Aires and drive 75 kilometers to 'Santa Susana'. The name is dedicated to Susana Caffrey, the wife of Mr. Francisco Kelly. The 1,200 hectare ranch is located in the Campana district, near the town of 'Los Cardales'. The ranch is primarily dedicated to agriculture and tourism. Upon arrival, you will receive a typical 'criolla' lunch and enjoy a folklore show. You will then take a guided tour of the 'Casco', in Spanish colonial style, and the authentic museum. The excursion ends with typical regional games, such as the 'carrera de sortijas'. Notes: The excursion is conducted with international travelers and an English-speaking guide. Transfers, lunch, and drinks are included. This tour is conducted on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. Horseback riding is no longer included. The ranch may also open on Mondays during the high season; please check availability in advance. This tour can also be booked optionally with private transfer and a German-speaking guide (during the transfer and stay at the estancia). The tour ends at one of the previously mentioned locations; you will not be brought back to the hotel (the location can be chosen and discussed with the guide). Optional: San Telmo Antiques Market (3 hours 30 minutes). Every Sunday, the typical cityscape of San Telmo transforms into one of Buenos Aires's main attractions. At over 270 stalls, vendors offer their unique goods for sale around Plaza Dorrego, including gramophones, vinyl records, antique jewelry, old postcards and calendars, books, armor, and lamps. The market, founded in 1970, is organized by the city's museum and is already internationally known for its curiosities. Numerous cafés invite visitors to linger, while singers, tango dancers, and mime artists perform in the streets and squares. The antiques market has become a traditional event of historical San Telmo and is a must for every visitor to Buenos Aires. While strolling through the cobblestone streets and many antique shops around Plaza Dorrego, you have the opportunity to soak up the unique atmosphere and experience the typical lifestyle of the residents of Buenos Aires up close. Note: This excursion takes place only on Sundays. Mid-range: Overnight stay at Hotel Loi Suites Esmeralda 3* or similar (1-room apartment). Comfort class: Overnight stay at Hotel Grand Brizo Buenos Aires 4* or similar (comfort room).

Included meals: Breakfast. Transfer hotel – Buenos Aires airport. Flight Buenos Aires – Iguassu (not included). Visit to the Argentine side of the falls. Transfer to the hotel. After breakfast, you will be transferred to the national airport, followed by a flight to Iguassu. From there, you will head directly to the Argentine side of the falls. Iguassu is undoubtedly one of the greatest natural wonders of South Brazil. The vast array of waterfalls cascading into a gorge on the border of Paraguay and Argentina comprises a total of 275 waterfalls that plunge down a chasm approximately 3 km wide. This spectacular natural phenomenon creates a constant spray of mist, adorned by an eternal rainbow that unfolds amid a subtropical forest, whose green splendor envelops the scene with an aura of the original. While on the Brazilian side you can mainly enjoy the panorama of the falls, on the Argentine side you have the opportunity to hike close between the waterfalls on the lower and upper circuits. With the Ecological Jungle Train, you will reach the Devil's Throat station, from where a short walk leads to the spectacular viewpoint of the Devil's Throat. Afterwards, you will cross the Tancredo Neves bridge over the Iguassu River, which forms the natural border between Brazil and Argentina, and enter Brazil. After that, transfer to the hotel. Mid-range: Overnight stay at Hotel Viale Cataratas 3 - 4* or similar (deluxe room). Comfort class: Overnight stay at Recanto Cataratas Thermas Resort & Convention 4* or similar (deluxe room).

Included meals: Breakfast. Morning visit to the Brazilian falls. Today, you can expect an unforgettable morning on the Brazilian side of the Iguassu Falls. Here you have the opportunity to experience the falls from a breathtaking perspective. From a viewpoint near the Devil's Throat, you have a true panoramic view of the giant waterfalls. A narrow walkway leads you to the lower steep step of the falls, where you stand amidst thundering torrents. Surrounded by mist and splashing spray, you experience the impressive power of the water up close. The lush green of the jungle and uprooted trees contribute to the dramatic backdrop, while a semicircular rainbow glimmers in the air, bathing the entire scene in a magical light. Mid-range: Overnight stay at Hotel Viale Cataratas 3 - 4* or similar (deluxe room). Comfort class: Overnight stay at Recanto Cataratas Thermas Resort & Convention 4* or similar (deluxe room).

Included meals: Breakfast. Transfer hotel – airport Iguassu. Flight Iguassu – Rio de Janeiro (not included). Transfer Rio de Janeiro airport – hotel. Transfer to the airport and flight to Rio de Janeiro, followed by transfer to the hotel. Rio de Janeiro presents its lush flora, sparkling blue waters, and fine beaches in a stunning panorama. The city lies between majestic mountains and the ocean and is home to the warm Cariocas, who offer a variety of cultural and entertaining activities as well as countless shopping opportunities. The streets and sidewalks of Rio accommodate approximately eight million people daily and one million vehicles, including cars, trucks, buses, motorcycles, and scooters, all competing for space, with only a maximum of one-third making it. However, this fascinating chaos does not lessen the enthusiasm of a Carioca. For a Carioca, everything is relative, only one thing is not – the wonder and attraction of Rio de Janeiro. Mid-range: Overnight stay at Hotel Mirador Rio Copacabana 3-4* or similar (standard room). Comfort class: Overnight stay at Hotel Windsor Excelsior 4* or similar (superior room).

Included meals: Breakfast. Full-day excursion: City tour, Sugarloaf & Corcovado. You leave the hotel and drive to the Cosme Velho Station to take the cog train () through Tijuca Forest to the 728-meter-high Corcovado. The train takes about 20 minutes and offers a wonderful view of the lush tropical flora, picturesque coastal landscapes, and the city itself. At the summit of the mountain, you disembark from the train, and after climbing some steps, you reach the famous Christ statue. After enjoying this breathtaking sight, you return by train to the base. Next, you will continue past Rio's famous beaches to the Urca district. There, you'll take a cable car over two stations to the 390-meter-high Sugarloaf. After descending again, you will head along Guanabara Bay and Flamingo Park toward downtown. You will pass the financial and business district and see other attractions, such as the Candelaria Church and St. Sebastian Cathedral, the Lapa Arches, the city theater, the national library, and the art museum. The tour concludes at the Sambadrome, the venue where Rio’s world-famous Carnival is celebrated annually. Note: In the event that the train is not operating, the round trip will instead be conducted using vans approved by the city government from/to Largo do Machado parking lot. Optional: Evening program Rio by night – show. You will be offered an acoustic and visual experience – pure SAMBA. The captivating show features richly costumed artists presenting the wealth of the nation's cultural and musical heritage. Mid-range: Overnight stay at Hotel Mirador Rio Copacabana 3-4* or similar (standard room). Comfort class: Overnight stay at Hotel Windsor Excelsior 4* or similar (superior room).

Included meals: Breakfast. Transfer hotel – airport Rio de Janeiro. Transfer in an air-conditioned vehicle from the hotel to the airport for the return flight to Europe. All overnight stays on this tour are in 3- or 4-star hotels (or comparable) in standard rooms. Attention: This tour is not a private tour but a group tour. A minimum of 2 participants and a maximum of 14 participants are required for the tour to take place.