8 Days / 7 Nights
Rio de Janeiro and Buenos Aires
Day 1 -
Arrival in Rio de Janeiro
Upon arrival at the airport a host will meet and assist you in transferring
to the hotel and in registering. The Rio natives or carioca will make
you feel welcome through their uncanny good humor and contagious happiness.
They boast Rio de Janeiro to be, "The most beautiful city of the world"
as it hosts a turquoise sea, stunning lagoons, awesome mountains and gorgeous
sandy beaches.
Dinner and Samba Show at Plataforma 1 - Rio's nightlife offers
something for everyone and can be compared to any other major city's nightlife
in the world. Enjoy a welcome dinner at a typical churrascaria, followed
by the allegoric Samba Show of Brazilian music and folklore at the famous
"Plataforma 1". (AB).
Day 2 - Sugar
Loaf Mountain and Downtown Rio
Start your morning with a tour of Sugar Loaf Mountain in Guanabara Bay.
Ascend the mountain by cable car for breathtaking panoramic views. Next,
proceed to downtown Rio. In season (October-February) take the optional
"Carnival Behind the Scenes" tour to meet the artists of the Carnival
and to get a special preview of work in progress on the carnival floats
and costumes. The rest of the year the optional tour will feature the
"Secrets of Old Rio", a walking tour through the historic avenues, squares
and back streets of Rio. The balance of the day is free. (AB).
Day 3 - Excursion
to Corcovado and Tijuca Forest
The mountain drive to Corcovado (2,400 ft. elevation) is a succession
of superb view sites from heavily forested heights of Tijuca - Chinese
View (1,300 ft.) and Emperor's Table (1,500 ft.) are particularly sublime.
The exhilarating ascent culminates at Rio's highest peak, the Corcovado
(Hunchback) with its majestic 125 ft. high statue of Christ the Redeemer
looking out over the entire city. There is a stiff climb (225 steps -
3 flights of stairs) from the lower level to the statue base and viewing
platform, so comfortable shoes should be worn. Return is via the Tijuca
Rain Forest, with its brilliant tropical flowers and lush foliage, and
to nearby Tawnay waterfalls, passing Niemeyer palisades on return. (AB).
Day 4 - Free
day in Rio de Janeiro
Stroll on Copacabana Beach where people watching is a popular event or
if you are fashion conscious shop the favorite boutiques of Ipanema. For
inspirational last minute shopping visit the stellar shopping malls favored
by Cariocas. If today happens to be a Sunday The Hippie Fair of Ipanema
is full of local color and great buys. (AB)
After breakfast transfer to the airport for your flight to Buenos Aires. Upon arrival at the airport a host will meet and assist you in transferring to the hotel and in registering. Buenos Aires is the most elegant and cosmopolitan city of South America. One is fascinated by the atmosphere and the individual personality of each of its neighborhoods. (AB,L) Evening Tango Show and Dinner.
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. (AB).
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 Pulperķa. 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)
Enjoy a free day in Buenos Aires to do as you please. Evening transfer to airport for flight home. (AB)