Spirit of the South - Eastbound

Itinerary

Days 1-2 Santiago

Despite the size of Santiago, the city centre is compact and easy to navigate. The Plaza de Armas and its cathedral is the chief area in town and from here many shops, restaurants and parks extend into the wider city. Spend a day on a winery tour to learn about Chile's fascinating wine-making history and, of course, sample some of Chile's famed reds and whites.

Days 3-4 Puerto Varas

Fly south to Puerto Varas in the beautiful lake district. This dramatic landscape is home to natural wonders such as smoking volcanoes, forests, snow-capped mountains glaciers and deep blue lakes. The atmosphere here is serene and out in the hills the only sounds are those of nature. Make the most of the surrounds and explore the lakeside villages or hike through the hills surrounding Osorno Volcano.

Days 5-6 Bariloche

Why not take a hike around the base of Cerro Cathedral in Bariloche or go skiing or mountain biking? There is plenty on offer in this outdoor adventure town - including some fabulous lakeside dining.

Days 7-9 Buenos Aires

Stroll the streets of the Recoleta district to browse the city's many interesting museums. Worth a visit is the Museo de Arte Latinoamericano de Buenos Aires (MALBA), featuring the work of great Latin American artists such as Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera.

Days 10-11 Iguazu Falls

Get lost in the roaring magic of Iguazu Falls - they are over 2 km long, with 275 falls in all, some reaching up to an enormous 80 m in height. View this stunning natural wonder from both Argentina and Brazil.

Days 12-13 Parati

Get away from it all in this World Heritage listed Portugese colonial town. Explore the cobblestone, pedestrian-only streets and take in the rustic charm of this once booming port town. Take a boat trip around the beautiful islands of the sparkling Bay of Parati.

Days 14-15 Rio de Janeiro

This city has a rich history and is still a place of contrasts today - from extreme poverty to the colourful Carnaval. Set against the luminescent green of Guanbara Bay, there are beautiful beaches, friendly locals and lots of sunshine. Get a view of it all from the top of the beautiful Sugar Loaf Mountain, which can be reached by cable car.