Great South American Journey - Rio to Santiago

Itinerary

Day 1 Arrive Rio de Janeiro

Arrive in Rio at any time.

Day 2-10 Paraty /Ilha Grande/ Iguassu Falls

From Rio we head south on Day 2 along the Atlantic coast to the port of Angra dos Reis, and onward by ferry to Ilha Grande. Relax and enjoy a cool Caipirinha on the beach, or try surfing. Further down the mainland coast we encounter the quaint colonial town of Paraty, an architectural gem famous for its churches. After Paraty we head west to the magnificent Foz do Iguaçu, or Iguassu falls, which borders Brazil, Paraguay and Argentina.

Day 11-15 Salto / Montevideo / Colonia

From Brazil we cross through Argentina to the Uruguayan city of Salto, famous for its thermal baths. After some time in the capital city of Montevideo, travel along the shores of the Rio de la Plata to charming colonial Colonia del Sacramento before crossing back into Argentina.

Day 16-17 Buenos Aires

Cross the Rio de la Plata by ferry to reach the dynamic city of Buenos Aires. There is much to do in this vibrant metropolis, with plenty of museums, theatres, and historical areas. Be sure to visit the colourful neighbourhoods of La Boca, San Telmo, and the Recoleta, and catch some tango at one of the many tanguerias, or tango houses.

Day 18-21 Nightbus / Bariloche

After a full day exploring the capital, board a night bus to Bariloche, in Upper Patagonia. A popular resort town for Argentines, the spectacular surroundings of Bariloche offer loads of outdoor options like hiking, biking, parapenting, lake tours, and skiing/snowboarding.

Day 22-23 Puerto Montt/Puerto Varas

Journey through the Andes of Southern Argentina, cross into Chile and arrive at Puerto Montt, Chile’s most important southern port and the gateway to Patagonia. Take a day trip to the island of Chiloé and sample the seafood!

Day 24-26 Pucón

Continue north to the Lake District of Chile, and the town of Pucón, a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts. Climb a volcano, hike, go rafting, mountain biking or skiing/snowboarding (in season).

Day 27-28 Nightbus / Santiago

Take a night bus to Chile’s largest city and capital, Santiago. Explore the many museums and parks, and visit the vibrant neighbourhood of Bellavista to see some handicrafts and trendy cafés. Day-trips include a trip to Valparaiso and Viña del Mar, Chile’s premier beach resort, and to Isla Negra, Pablo Neruda’s seaside home.