Buenos Aires, Iguaza and Mendoza South America

Argentina is a land of extremes, from Patagonia’s majestic glaciers to the colours and culture of Buenos Aires. Situated between the Andes to the west and the Atlantic Ocean to the east, Argentina is a land of fiery passion and spectacular beauty, with dramatic mountains, cascading waterfalls at Iguazu, the vast grassy plains of the Pampas, wonderful estancias where you can ride all day and not see another soul, and the cosmopolitan city of Buenos Aires.

This unique country conjures up images of tango dancers, elegant architecture, gauchos on horseback, polo and mouth-watering steaks – it’s easy to see why Argentina is one of the most popular destinations in South America. Add in the fascinating culture and lunar landscapes of the northwest, the gorgeous vineyards around Mendoza, and the incredible marine wildlife of the Valdes Peninsula or the extraordinary Ibera wetlands, and you have a dynamic and endlessly varied combination of experiences to enjoy. There are so many highlights, and a single trip can only hope to cover some of these, but with our help you will be able to uncover your own passion for Argentina.

Day One- December 30th

Arrival at Buenos Aires. Your guide will meet you at the airport, introduce you to the destination and take you to your hotel: FOUR SEASONS BUENOS AIRES – 03 nts, 01 DBL City View Room with breakfast included.

Spacious luxury suites with marble bathrooms, charming gardens and swanky gourmet restaurants and bars can be enjoyed at The Four Seasons hotel in Buenos Aires. It is the only hotel in the exclusive Recoleta neighbourhood featuring an outdoor swimming pool in the gardens. Guests can also relax at the award- winning spa and state-of-the art gym. Wi-Fi is free. The Four Seasons Hotel is divided over a contemporary tower and a stunning 20th-century French-style mansion styled with local artwork and upscale decor. The suites include air conditioning, a minibar and a TV. All bathrooms feature an HD TV mirror. Cielo Spa offers a tango and polo inspired menu of therapeutic massage and salon treatments and a soothing atmosphere styled with contemporary décor. Guests can dine gourmet Argentine cuisine at the Elena design restaurant, or treat themselves to a custom-made cocktail prepared by expert mixologists at Pony Line Bar, the first Polo bar in Argentina. Nuestro Secreto offers a relaxed and trendy indoor-outdoor atmosphere by the pool where guests can experience an Argentine-style BBQ. Four Seasons Hotel is located just a 3 minutes´ drive from the centre of Buenos Aires and near touristic points such as the Obelisk and the Colon theatre. Ezeiza International Airport is a 45-minute drive away and a shuttle service can be provided.

Check-in: 15:00 hs.

Check-out: 12:00 hs.

Day Two- December 31st

Breakfast at the hotel.

Half day at Southern Neighbourhoods of Beunos Aires (private).

You will discover Buenos Aires most traditional neighbourhoods. The first stop will be the Plaza de Mayo (May Square), historical scenery of the main political events of our country. Site where the city was founded in 1580, centre of the political, religious and social life of Buenos Aires, surrounded by the Government House, the old city hall, the cathedral, the Central Bank and Economy ministry, the Plaza de Mayo has been witness of the most dramatic and joyful days of Argentina.

Taking the historical Avenida de Mayo, to get to the mythical Café Tortoni, the oldest caffé in the Buenos Aires. Throughout the years, it has received the most distinguished vistors, writers and musicians, local and foreigners among them, such as Jorge Luis Borges, Julio Cortazar, Federico García Lorca, Carlos Gardel.

Continue the tour in San Telmo, a picturesque area that still preserves its cobbled stone streets, as well as some colonial constructions and of the turn of the century; nowadays there are many antique shops and artist’s ateliers. On Sundays there is a Flea Market, bustling with unique artisans and antiques.

Continue the tour, to southern La Boca, where you will visit the famous Caminito street open air museum and characteristic colourful tin houses and Boca Juniors Stadium. The neighborhood has its own strong identity, the Italian immigrants that have settled in this area, close to the port, building colorful houses. The neighborhood has retained much of its original character, a mixture of popular culture, tango, street art and soccer.

We will continue towards Puerto Madero, the newest and most contemporary district of Buenos Aires, where modern real estate and high-rise office buildings form a new kind of skyline, towering above an upscale promenade of riverfront bars and restaurants.

Day Three- January 1st

Breakfast at the hotel.

Half Day Northern Neighbourhoods of Buenos Aires (private).

You will discover Buenos Aires most traditional neighbourhoods. The first stop will be Recoleta district, The Recoleta neighborhood is the hub of the city’s aristocracy, where upscale families live in pricey apartments along avenues with soaring French architecture. Discover the Parisian air of Alvear Avenue, the most exclusive fashion shops, luxurious French palaces and the legendary Recoleta Cemetery.

Recoleta cemetery is the final resting place of many of the wealthiest and most important Argentine historical figures. Once the garden of the adjoining church, the cemetery was created in 1822 and is among the oldest in the city. It covers 4 city blocks, full of tombs adorned with works by local and international sculptors. More than 6,400 mausoleums form an architectural free-for-all, including Greek temples and pyramids. The most popular site is the tomb of Eva "Evita" Perón, which is always heaped with flowers and letters from adoring fans.

And finally, visit Palermo district, so diverse that allow completely different areas to coexist: you will tour the green area of Buenos Aires, the most traditional Palermo Chico housing beautiful French style palaces, Palermo Soho & Hollywood, the trendy and fashionable districts featuring bars, restaurants and hip stores.

In the evening, pick up at the hotel and Dinner and Tango Show at “Rojo Tango” (private transfers).

We will enjoy a private and exclusive dinner and tango show in Rojo Tango where you will be able to see a top-quality show, with professional tango singers and dancers together with an excellent cuisine in one of the most exclusive atmospheres of Buenos Aires’ nightlife.

Day Four- January 2nd

Breakfast at the hotel.

At the appropriate time, pick up at the hotel and transfer to Buenos Aires’ Domestic Airport to take your flight to y our next destination: Iguazu.

Suggested flight: AR 1720, AEP-JGR
Departure: 09:35 hrs
Arrival: 11:25hrs

Arrival at Iguazu. Your guide will meet you at the airport, introduce you to the destination and take you to your hotel: GRAN MELIA IGUAZU – 02 nts, 01 DBL Deluxe Falls View Room with breakfast included.

The hotel is superbly located within the Iguazú National Park, near Iguazú Falls. Ideal for outdoor activities or visiting iconic sites, such as the Three Borders Landmark. Modern, comfortable rooms with views of the falls or the jungle. Large gardens with pool, tennis court and rest areas for sitting back and admiring the stunning natural surroundings. Relax and let yourself be pampered at the spa, a sanctuary of tranquility to invigorate the body, with the finest treatments and massages. Immerse yourself in a natural sanctuary in the middle of the jungle, where the impressive Iguazú Falls cascade in front of the Gran Meliá Iguazú. Rest in our rooms, relax next to the pool and enjoy exquisite Argentine cuisine.

Check-in: 15:00 hs.

Check-out: 12:00 hs.

Visit the Brazilian Side of the Falls (private; entrance fees included).

We will visit the Brazilian side of the falls. We will enjoy secure and modern catwalks that lead through the falls.We will continue down pathways which take us ouver the falling water up to a special area with a fantastic panoramic view of the Devil’s Throat and the surrounding falls.

Day Five- January 3rd

Breakfast at the hotel.

Visit the Argentinian Side of the Falls (private; entrance fees included).

You will enjoy a Full Day tour, visiting the 3 main circuits that will bring you face to face with the native wildlife: the Lower, Superior circuits, and the most impressive, the Devil’s Throat. The Iguazu River plunges into a gorge of over 275 falls along 4 km completely surrounded by a dense tropical forest. The Upper Circuit guarantees spectacular panoramic views of the falls. The Lower Circuit will give us a close contact with the falls and surrounding vegetation. Finally, we will arrive at the Devil’s Throat, the most impressive one of the Iguazu Falls.

Day Six- January 4th

Breakfast at the hotel.

At the appropriate time, pick up at the hotel and transfer to Iguazu’s Argentinian Airport to take your flight to your next destination: Mendoza.

Suggested flight: AR 2707, IGR-COR
Departure: 08:50hrs
Arrival: 10:50hrs

+AR 2562, COR-MDZ
Departure: 12:40hrs
Arrival: 13:45hrs

Arrival at Mendoza. Your guide will meet you at the airport, introduce you to the destination, and take you to your hotel: THE VINES – 02 nts, 01 DBL One Bedroom Villa with breakfast included.

Villas are a special part of the experience at The Vines Resort & Spa. We offer 21 villas in total, including 6 one bedroom units, 8 one bedroom deluxe villas, and 7 two bedroom deluxe villas. Ranging from 1000 – 2700 square feet, these spacious living spaces are luxurious spots to watch the sun rise and set, and take in the majesty of the Uco Valley.

Check-in: 15:00 hs.

Check-out: 12:00 hs.

Day Seven- January 5th

Breakfast at the hotel.

Full Day Uco Valley Wineries (private; lunch included).

Off the beaten path, the Uco Valley is named after an Indian chief who ruled the area hundreds of years ago. Still somewhat underdeveloped, top wineries found optimal soils to grow high quality grapes and are constructing monumental wineries in tribute to this magical land. Intensely green, never ending vines, golden poplar trees along the dirt roads, and the snow-capped Mount Tupungato dominate this beautiful landscape.

08:30a.m to 5:30p.m. 120 kms. From down town (75 miles) Lunch, top shelf wine tastings, chilled waters, snacks. Winery and restaurant tips included.

Bodega Diamandes - Clos de los 7 winery.

Bodegas Diamandes is part of the famed Clos de los 7, project led by French winemaker Michell Rolland. On top of making Gran Cru wines, this winery combines an amazing monumental architecture ( winners of Best Architecture 2011 by Best of Wine Tourism) and one of the most impressive views of the Andes. The winery architectural design blends harmoniously into the stunning Andean Scenery. The owners, the Bonnie family ( owners of renowned Chateau Malartic – Lagraviere ( Grand Cru Classe de Graves )and Chateau Gazin Rocquencourt decided to leave France in search of new horizons in the world of wine. In 2007 they have  their first harvest, creating elegant wines with the authenticity of Uco Valley.

Domain Bousquet. Visit and Tasting. Organic Vineyard.

Being one of the pioneers in Valle de Uco, Bousquet family bought the vineyards in 1998. Originally from Carcassone, France, the family moved to Mendoza to produce argentine wines with a French style. Situated at 4000 feet of elevation, this vineyard is certified organic and the careful and dedicated work in the vineyard shows in all of their wines

Andeluna Cellars. Six step lunch paired with wines.

Located on 200 acres of mountain vineyards is the state-of-the-art winery of Andeluna. Set among the foothills of the Andes, Andeluna is a remarkably beautiful place. Visitors enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding areas. There are four separate tasting areas to enjoy, and a walk on the grounds is the perfect way to experience the rich history and tradition of the winery while enjoying Argentina’s finest wines.

Overnight at the selected hotel.

Day Eight- January 6th

Breakfast at the hotel.

At the appropriate time, pick up at the hotel and transfer to the ranch: RANCHO E’ CUERO – 02 nts, 01 DBL Standard Room with full board.

Located in Mendoza, deep inside the Andes Mountains, Rancho ´e Cuero is a 3000 hectares family run mountain ranch, where exclusiveness, personalized attention, comfortable accommodation, mind-blowing gastronomy, breathtaking landscape together with a wide array of outdoor activities, will for sure, make your stay the highlight of your trip to Argentina. This ranch, has belonged to the Palma family for over 250 years, and now opens its doors to offer a one of a kind experience. Enjoy horse riding, fly fishing, trekking in total privacy and peace in a traditional and warmth environment. Perfect for embracing the true Argentine Mountain-Estancia life!

Day Nine- January 7th

Meals and activities provided by the ranch.

Activities:

• Horse riding. Excellent and well tamed horses are used, using comfortable and traditional saddles. Ridings are developed inside the estancia, in private, through breathtaking landscapes & exceptional views.
• Trekking. All levels trail!
• Adventure in 4x4 pickup trucks.
• Photographic safari, with guanacos, red deer, foxes, hares and great variety of flora and fauna sightseeing. Wildlife is very present.
• Rainbow trout fishing on the local mountain stream.

Overnight at the selected hotel.

Day Ten- January 8th

Breakfast at the ranch.

At the appropriate time, pick up and transfer to your hotel in Mendoza: ESPLENDOR MENDOZA – 01 nt, 01 DBL Concept Room with breakfast included.

Featuring a Caribbean style swimming pool, a fitness centre and spa facilities, Esplendor by Wyndham Mendoza offers modern rooms 300 metres from Metropolitan Park. The property features an on site casino, restaurant, bars and a stadium. Free WiFi access and private parking services are provided. Rooms at Esplendor by Wyndham Mendoza boast a designer décor that combines beauty and practicality. They feature plasma TVs and minibars. Some of them have a chaise longue that can sleep an extra guest. A buffet breakfast is daily served. The restaurant offers international dishes, and drinks can be enjoyed at the bar. Guest can make use of the spa facilities, including an indoor heated pool. There is a modern lounge where guests can enjoy themselves reading a book. Laundry and ironing services are provided. A kids club with professional staff including play station, table tennis and table football is featured. It opens from 14.00 to

22.00 hs from Monday to Monday (until the 17th of April). The 24-hour front desk can give information for getting around the area and secure shuttles to El Plumerillo Airport, which is 22 km away. Esplendor by Wyndham Mendoza is a 10-minute drive from the city centre.

Check-in: 14:00 hs.

Check-out: 11:00 hs.

Day Eleven- January 9th

Breakfast at the hotel.

At the appropriate time, pick up at the hotel and transfer to Mendoza’s Airport to take your flight to your next destination: Buenos Aires.

Suggested flight: AR 1537, MDZ-AEP
Departure: 09:35hrs
Arrival: 11:10hrs

Arrival at Buenos Aires. Your guide will meet you at the airport and take you to the Estancia in San Antonio de Areco: LA BAMBA DE ARECO – 02 nts, 01 DBL Pampa Room with full board.

Located at the end of an avenue lined with century-old plane trees, the master house at La Bamba is built around the main courtyard, with a well-endowed library in the guard tower and a panoramic gallery opening onto the park. The cottage, the house sheltered by a vine arbour, the stables, the summer dining room and the former inn make up the majority of the buildings that surround the casco. Nestling in the midst of a magnificent park, this typical colonial style ensemble houses rooms and suites spread over three buildings, with several reception rooms, a billiard room, a bar, a massage room and a boutique. A regional and refined culinary tradition, outstanding service, charm and character make La Bamba de Areco an essential stopping place in the province of Buenos Aires.

Check-in: 15:00 hs.

Check-out: 12:00 hs.

Day Twelve- January 10th

Meals and activities provided by the ranch.

Activities:

Excursions on horseback, by carriage, or mountain bike, Argentinian bowls game, hot stone massages, the large swimming pool and the numerous relaxation areas offer the traveller an unforgettable restful experience and an incomparable way to restore energy.

La Bamba de Areco also serves as the base for the international polo team that bears its name. The property includes two polo fields and the guest can also watch games during the season, with practice sessions and matches taking place almost daily. Although it is not intended to be a polo school, arrangements can be made on request for guests who are experienced polo players.

San Antonio de Areco, one of the oldest towns in Argentina, is located only 13km away and invites you to return to the eighteenth century with its narrow colonial streets, church, bars and museums. Explore the soul and character of the gaucho at the Ricardo Guiraldes Gaucho Museum, whom the famous Argentine writer brought to life in his cult novel Don Segundo Sombra (1926). Admire the master silversmiths at work in their workshop and marvel at the skill of the leather craftsmen. Heirs to Argentine tradition, these artists perpetuate the international fame of San Antonio de Areco.

Overnight at the selected hotel.

Day Thirteen- January 11th

Breakfast at the ranch.

At the appropriate time, pick up at the hotel and transfer to Buenos Aires’ International Airport (EZE) to take your flight back home.