Day 1 - Buenos Aires
Upon arrival at the airport a host will meet and assist you in transferring to the hotel and in registering.
Buenos Aires City Tour - In this tour of Argentina's cultural and political capital, you will get a sampling glimpse of the diverse districts that make up this grand city. Visit the colorful "Boca" district and the elegant North Quarter and Palermo Park. See the government's "Casa Rosada" - pink house, the Colon Theater, May Square and drive down the famous 9th of July Avenue.
Evening Tango Show and Dinner - Tango is the music of Buenos Aires par excellence. Its origins are traced back to 1880 and its birthplace where the slums, inhabited by Italian and Spanish immigrants, black people and “gauchos”. From this racial mix appeared the “ compadritos” (small-time hoods) who tried to reflect in their music, their letters and their dance the typical “cuchilleros” (knife fighters) duel characteristic of their social ambient. Their music appears as a mix of Cuban and Spanish rhythms, some polka and, as some people say, also a little bit of African music. Their lyrics, difficult to be understood and impossible to be translated, are deeply poetic and have a story to tell about the city, its history and its people. Despite its humble origins, in the 20's tango left the brothels and the underworld districts to reach the high-class ballrooms, but to do so it had had to travel to Paris to come back triumphant. Typical characteristic of a prejudiced society that has always looked at Europe for its models. The thing is that tango became at last a complete cultural expression, a gathering of myths, values, traditions and aspirations. For some people just representative of a past epoch, but in fact, tango is is still alive. A good way of penetrating its spirit is visiting one of the restaurants that offer tango shows of an excellent level, to enjoy tango sensual magnetism taken to the stage by some of the best dancers, singers and musicians in Buenos Aires.

Day 2 - Estancia excursion and Fiesta Gaucha
This is the ideal opportunity to sample a bit of traditional Argentine country life. Depart from the pier towards Cardales, only 90 km from downtown Buenos Aires, to visit Santa Susana Estancia. Its 1200 hectares are devoted mainly to agriculture and cattle breeding. A couple of years ago the Estancia began holding gaucho parties for visitors. Upon arrival a welcome drink with empanadas (meat pies) will be served at the Pulpería. Later, feast on a typical Argentine barbecue accompanied by Argentine wine. As you finish your lunch, enjoy a show with folk and tango music and dances. Afterwards, see a cuadreras and ring races where gauchos exhibit their skills as horsemen. Late in the afternoon, a snack consisting of home made pastries and yerba mate will be served. Horses and carriages are available for rides. (AB,L)

Day 3 - Tigre and Riverside Train
Departure from the hotel northwards, passing by the residential neighbourhoods and the President's Residence in Olivos, in front of which the Maipú Station is placed. This is the first station of the Riverside Train, where you will board this picturesque train, from whose panoramic windows you will be able to appreciate the immensity of the Rio de la Plata and the gorgeous residences built over its hills. You will get off the train in the renewed San Isidro Station, an interesting complex of restaurants, cinemas and shopping mall placed in an elegant residential area. We will visit the imposing Neogothic Cathedral, placed in the historic centre of the city, which is surrounded by some houses in Colonial and Italian styles, cobbled streets and its square with centenary trees.
The visit continues towards Tigre, a lovely neighbourhood situated in the delta of Paraná River. The area was first colonised in 1580, but it was not until the last years of the XVIII century that some people settled in this area. The first inhabitants were smugglers that take advantage of the labyrinth of little rivers and isles to hide and to enter with goods, evading the customs taxes. Finally, in the last years of the 19th century, it turned into the favourite place for recreation to the high class of Buenos Aires. Therefore, a sail along the Delta, will allow us to admire the old residences making contrast with the wooden houses built over piles, to beat the constant floods; also see some yatch and rowing clubs and get to know the typical features of a community that lives in fellowship with the river. The delta gathers several little isles covered with abundant subtropical vegetation, crossed by channels and streams, making it an ideal place to relax in touch with nature and pure air. Return to the hotel. (B)

Day 4 - Buenos Aires
Enjoy a free day in Buenos Aires to do as you please. Buenos Aires is a great place to go shopping. Crafts from all over the country can be found in this city, particularly those made in the Pampas that relate to country life and gaucho customs such as silver knives and mate gourds; saddles and leather clothing. Worldwide reknown boutiques also have a branch shop in Buenos Aires. Malls, shopping centers, shopping streets and open-air markets invite you to shop and look for the incredible sales (liquidaciones) you will find in this amazing city. Credit cards, US dollars and pesos are accepted in every place. Shops are open from 10.00 a.m. to 07.00 p.m.; malls close at 10.00 p.m. Enjoy one of the best shopping experiences in Buenos Aires where even window-shopping is a delight. Transfer to airport for departure. (AB)