Argentina Brief and Charming:
A Journey to the Heart of the Region, from North to South
We are about to embark on a journey that traverses the very essence of Argentina, where history, culture, and nature intertwine at every step. We begin in vibrant Buenos Aires, a city of contrasts and elegance, where its avenues and historic neighborhoods, from the imposing Recoleta to the colorful Caminito in La Boca, tell centuries of history and traditions that pulse in every corner. We walk through squares, palaces, and theaters that breathe art and passion, enjoying the porteño architecture and the life that flows with its own rhythm in every street.
We leave the city behind to dive into the natural wonder of the Iguazú Falls, where the power of the water and the roar of the waterfalls surround us in a majestic spectacle. We sail along the river, feeling the immensity of the Misiones jungle, while multicolored birds cross our path, and the region’s biodiversity reminds us of the fragility and greatness of life on Earth.
Next, we head to the heart of Patagonia, to Puerto Madryn and the Valdés Peninsula, where the Southern Right Whales gift us moments of awe and tenderness, and the penguins of Punta Tombo teach us the beauty of wildlife in its natural habitat. Arid landscapes and green valleys combine with the deep blue of the sea and the Atlantic coast, creating a mosaic of colors that leaves us breathless. Further south, the southern Patagonia welcomes us with its ancient glaciers. In El Calafate, we gaze at the imposing Perito Moreno Glacier, its ice break-offs resounding in our hearts, while we sail along the Brazo Rico and approach the magnificence of Estancia Cristina, immersed in a setting of lakes, mountains, and forests that seem straight out of a dream. In these remote lands, every trail and every estancia allows us to connect with the tradition and nature of the region.
Finally, we arrive in Ushuaia, the southernmost city on the planet, where the Beagle Channel and its islands invite us to navigate among Magellanic penguins and landscapes that seem infinite. We will explore Tierra del Fuego National Park and travel on the End of the World Train, discovering the stories of explorers and ancient settlers who speak to us of human strength and perseverance in this extreme corner of the world. Every mountain, every lake, and every corner reminds us of the vastness of the Earth and the wonder of its secrets. Throughout the journey, we will stay in 4 and 5-star hotels, enjoying the comforts and personalized attention that make this experience one of luxury and comfort. Each carefully selected excursion brings us closer to the heart of the destinations, allowing us to experience the most authentic Argentina, from its vibrant cities to its most remote landscapes. It is a journey that awakens all the senses, where history, culture, and nature combine to create memories that will last forever in our minds.
| DAYS | 15 Days - 14 Nights |
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| DESTINATIONS | Buenos Aires, Iguazu Falls, Madryn, Calafate |
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| INCLUDED TOURS |
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| OPTIONAL TOURS |
Navigation on the waters of Lake Argentino to Estancia Cristina (El Calafate)) |
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| HOTELS |
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| SERVICES INCLUDED |
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15 days - 14 nights
Day 1 - Arrival in Buenos Aires
We will welcome you at Ministro Pistarini International Airport (Ezeiza) and transfer you to your hotel in Buenos Aires City.
Day 2 - Private Tour of Buenos Aires City
Breakfast in the hotel. Like many cities, Buenos Aires is split into areas (barrios) that commonly have distinctive features. We begin our tour visiting some of the most classic of these barrios where we will discover some splendid architecture that ranges from the old colonial structures such as the Cabildo, the ostentatious French style palaces and buildings mostly related to the very prosperous early twentieth century, art deco and the modern skyscrapers of the business micro centre and Puerto Madero, the renovated dock area. We go to some of its principal noteworthy sites such as the spectacular, recently renovated, Colón Opera Theatre, the most recognized monument, the Obelisk, the Plaza de Mayo, known especially for its silent protests against the military government and its surrounding buildings such as the Cabildo, the foundation of Buenos Aires, the Metropolitan Cathedral where lies the mausoleum of Don José de San Martin, the 'father' of the Republic, and, of course, the Presidential House, the Casa Rosada.
We discover barrios such as San Telmo, the Antique centre, which was inhabited by the first aristocracy until there was a general movement to Barrio Norte (Recoleta) due to the yellow fever outbreak at the end of the nineteenth century. We visit La Boca, the home of the famous football team, and one of the most picturesque barrios due to its colourful houses and its working class Italian immigrant influences. It is also known for its tango and art and here we take a walk down the artisans' passage and to its gallery as well as a walk to the Port. This is followed by a visit to Puerto Madero, the renovated dockland site, with the new part with its excellent offices and apartments securely separated from the city by bridges. Going further north we reach the very popular parks of Palermo known for their traditional monuments such as the Planetarium, Galileo Galilei and the Magna Carta.
We also visit the elite residential barrio of the City, Recoleta, where we also find the Museum of Fine Arts, the picturesque colonial church of Nuestra Señora del Pilar and the famous cemetery where Eva Peron was buried. These are situated close to the Plaza Francia where every Sunday there are popular artisanal stalls and people take advantage of sunny days relaxing in the beautiful plazas with their incredible trees. In Palermo Chico, a very exclusive residential zone, we can see luxury French style palaces and enjoy the parks designed by the French landscaper, Thays, that have a style different to the rest.
Day 3 - Exclusive Navigation on the Río de Plata & Delta del Tigre
Breakfast in the hotel. In the North Dock in Puerto Madero, in the centre of Buenos Aires, we board a modern launch with state of the art nautical technology, great comfort and available refreshments, in order to make a cruise along the coast of the Río de la Plata and into the Delta del Tigre. We are accompanied by the excellent views of Buenos Aires from the water and pass by the Jorge Newberry Airport, the football stadium home of River Plate, known as the Monument, and the City University. We then cruise by the exclusive residential barrios of Vicente López, Martinez and the elevations of San Isidro, the port of Olivos and various nautical clubs until we enter the Delta of the río Paraná, a fast flowing river that has its source in Brazil.
Especially at weekends and on sunny days there will be a lot of marine activity with an abundance of yachts and cruisers as well as the water taxis that service the houses and restaurants that on the islands in the Tigre Delta. The Delta is like a rural Venice with its houses on the banks and its streets being the waterways. We go to the El Alcázar recreation centre on the Banks of the río Sarmiento and then continue our trip past a number of the islands until we stop close to midday at the bustling water transport station of Tigre, where we can go and have lunch. After lunch we return to Puerto Madero.
Day 4 - Buenos Aires - Departure to Iguazú
We will transfer from the hotel to Jorge Newbery Aeropark in Buenos Aires City to take the flight to Iguazú. Upon arrival, we will be welcomed at Iguazú Airport and transferred to the hotel.
Day 5 - Iguazú Falls: Argentina & Navigation on the Iguazú River
We will do one of the most interesting excursions through the hanging bridges, which will lead us to visit the stunning Falls from the Argentine side. Then we will get to the Devil's Gorge and be dazzled by its rough waters, a nature spectacles at a height of 80 meters. In the Lower Area (Circuito Inferior) we will enjoy the rich wildlife around us, as we go down the flight of steps where we can watch the spectacle offered by this water curtain surrounded by thick vegetation. We will pass by Álvar Núñez Fall, from where we will enjoy the first views of the Devil's Gorge. Following the path, we will find San Martín Island and the homonymous Fall. Finally, at the end of trip we will find Bosetti and Dos Hermanas Falls. We can stay and appreciate this spectacle of waters and get refreshed since the steam from the waves breaking on the rocks will spray us completely.
We will continue our trip, this time in the Upper Area (Circuito Superior), where we will go around the same falls but from a different point of view of the Falls and their surroundings. Besides, we will get close to our next destination, the most stunning, which will guide us through the roaring of the water currents. We will get to the Devil's Gorge's station by train, and start our trip around the islands, and thus, have a wider view of this great nature "mistake" in the middle of the forest created, according to a legend, by the angry God of Iguazú River.
Full Moon (optional in Argentine Falls) We will enjoy this unique trip at night with a full moon, which will allow us to appreciate the sounds and secrets of Misiones forest. We will leave on the Ecologic Train and head for Devil's Gorge Station, where we will capture the first sounds of nature, which creates a magic and mysterious environment. The spectacle offered by the Falls, with the rainbow that appears from the waters with the moon reflection, will completely dazzle us. Besides, once within this overwhelming environment, we will get the movements and sounds of the animals that go for their food. After such a magnificent experience, we will return by train to the travelers' center.
This activity is an extra walk through the hanging bridges, and with this we will start our adventure in which we will sail up to the Canyon of Iguazú River. Then we will sail for about 2 km along the rapids enjoying a beautiful view from San Martín Island. We will go round the island up to the homonymous fall to enjoy a great deal and get sprayed from a close distance. We will get back on off-road vehicles through the thick forest surrounding the National Park.
Day 6 - Iguazú Falls: Brazil & Visit to the Bird Park
Here we will have a very beautiful trip through the only hanging bridge of 1 km to enjoy the view of Iguazú Falls from the other side, the Brazilian region. During this trip we can also learn more about the fauna and flora, enjoy a unique landscape of the falls since the area is more open regarding falls because most of them are on the Argentine side and form a water curtain of 2.700 meters wide. So from this side we will be dazzled by the beauty of the Devil's Gorge to the full.
Besides, this place is home to rare wildlife species, some of them in danger of extinction such as giant otters, anteaters, jaguars, red deer and yellow alligators. We will also see native flowers such as orchids, bromelias and thousands of butterflies.
Note: We have to bear in mind that this trip is available only 5 days per month during the full moon; two days before, two days after, and during that period. We have also to take into consideration that the capacity for this activity is limited and, of course, it depends on the weather conditions that day. If you want to see other excursion options in Iguazu, click here: Tours in Iguazu.
You will visit the Parque de las Aves, a private 4,000-acre zoo open since 1994, which is located in the middle of a forest and close to the Iguazu Falls. In this facility you will see native and exotic birds, such as parrots, macaws, butterflies, reptiles and insects, most of them under risk of extinction. The park is surrounded by lush vegetation, typical of the Brazilian Atlantic Forest. There are over 900 birds of 135 species from Brazil and other origins. You can also find different animal species. If you want to see other excursion options in Iguazu, click here: Tours in Iguazu.
Day 7 - From Iguazú to Puerto Madryn
Breakfast at the hotel. We will transfer from the hotel to Iguazú Airport to take the flight to Puerto Madryn. Upon arrival at Trelew Airport, we will be transferred to the hotel in Puerto Madryn.
Day 8 - Valdés Peninsula and Whale Watching of the Southern Right Whale
Valdés Peninsula and Whale Watching of the Southern Right Whale
Breakfast at the hotel. We will have great excitement on this day. We will set out first thing in the morning towards Península de Valdés, which was declared Natural and Cultural World Heritage by the UNESCO for being one of the few places in the world where you can watch the Southern right whale in its natural habitat. In this place we can find the biggest concentration of sea animals in the entire Atlantic coastline.
We will visit the Interpretation Center in Carlos Ameghino Isthmus, and then we will head for the ecotouristic village of Puerto Pirámides, which is the only urbanized town in the Peninsula. In Pirámides, we will enjoy a spectacular experience watching the whales in their natural habitat, accompanied by whale specialized guides, biologists, and film and naturalist photography teams.
Before starting our voyage, we will provide travelers with a raincoat and a life jacket. We will set out on a motorboat tour around the crystalline waters of Golfo Nuevo (New Gulf) to see the Southern Right Whale. We will have a unique natural experience when the whales make their appearance moving, swiping their tails, blowing air through their holes and jumping. From the end of May to December, whales from Antarctica reach the coasts of Golfo Nuevo (New Gulf) to breed in the coastline of Puerto Pirámides.
Note about the whale watching: It is performed between July and November. Waterproof clothes and windbreakers are recommended. Before the trip, elemental advice is provided. This adventure is available for adults as well as for children.
Day 9 - Punta Tombo Penguin Colony & Lower Valley
Breakfast at hotel. Today we visit the most important Magellan penguin colony in South America: Punta Tombo, located in the south of the Valle Inferior of the Chubut River. At the beginning (more than 50 years ago), it was a natural reserve, 20 years later it was considered protected area. Punta Tombo has an expanse of almost 3,000m per 500m wide along the Atlantic Ocean. This natural accident is produced by crystalline rocky structures appearance before the Jurassic era which have beared the erosion produced by the ravages of the sea. Key factors for nest creation are the existence of boulder and compact sand. The season is from the beginning of September until April, when penguins emigrate to nest and protect their young.
Depending on the season, all their productive cycle can be observed. First males appear so as to build their nests or rebuild the previous year one, they take advantage of the natural caves for that. One month later, females lay their eggs to sit on them during 40 to 45 days. During that gestation period, males go for food. At the beginning of April, chicks are already good swimmers and feed alone. In the past, this zone was an indigenous cemetery where many Tehuelches also lived and hunted. When walking around the reserve we recommend not to divert the route.
When returning from this adventure with penguins, we go towards the lower valley, to know the industrial and commercial center of the region: Trelew. Then we continue towards Gaiman, the most important Welsh colony in Argentina. There are still traditions and customs such as the Welsh tea with Welsh Black cake, as well as the walnut cake with fruit and homemade bread. If we go back the chacras (eateries), we will observe the different Welsh Chapels and observe the farming-tourist ventures. If you want to see other excursion options in Puerto Madryn, click here: Tours in Puerto Madryn.
Day 10 - From Puerto Madryn to Calafate
Breakfast at the hotel. We will transfer to Trelew Airport to board the flight to Ushuaia. Upon arrival, we will be welcomed at Ushuaia Airport and transferred to the hotel.
Day 11 - Visit to the Perito Moreno Glacier & Navigation on the Brazo Rico
Early in the morning we make our way to the most famous glacier in the world. It was declared as a Heritage Humanity in 1981 by UNESCO and it is considered unique for many characteristics such as its continuous advance, its comfortable access to its best viewpoints and the possibility to walk over it. The name was given in honour of the great explorer of the Patagonian area, Perito Francisco Moreno.
We walk along the edge of the southern side of the Argentino Lake, before crossing the rivers Centinela and Mitre, at the same time we discover post card views of the pre Andean Mountain Chain. We arrive to Brazo Rico and enter Los Glaciares National Park. While we tour along the Rich Lake we see the huge blocks of ice drifting along and walk until we have a full panoramic view of this giant glacier. If the weather conditions are favourable, we can have the privilege of attending this unique spectacle in the argentinean Patagonia... the ice landslides from the southern falls in which huge ice floes cover the homonym channel as they are accumulated there or in the Brazo Rico.
Here it is possible to get to know the glacier from different panoramic and viewpoints by walking the footbridges whilst we are informed about its history, characteristics and settings. In the afternoon we return to the Hotel.
Note: The Perito Moreno is a glacier in continuous advance; this is different to the great majority of such giant glaciers that are in a severe regression. In its advance it surrounds the cold waters of the Brazo Rico, that are origined from the Argentino Lake which causes some pressure over the ice that make the level of water increase in that part of the lake and has the effect of generating a tunnel of almost 45 metres through which flows from the Brazo Rico and in to the Argentino Lake. The continuous erosion by these waters causes parts of the dome to collapse producing fantastic spectacles.
Navigation across the Rich lake – Nautical Safari
We leave from the 'Bajo de las Sombras' Port to begin this navigation that complements the visit by the footbridges to the Perito Moreno Glacier and has a time lapse of one hour. There we can see well the southern edge of the glacier. The same as for the Brazo Rico and the Brazo Sur of the Argentino Lake, they are transformed by the glacier into dykes. We navigate the Rich Lake marveling at the imposing face of the glacier that reaches up to 60 metres high. Here we get closer to the confluence between the colossal ice structure and the Magellan Peninsular before continuing, for approximately 3 kms, the length of the southern wall.
This is the major attraction spot and the most awaited moment by all the visitors: the landslides of enormous blocks of ice during the summer season that are related to other typical formations such as crevices, 'seracs' and their bluish tints. We have the opportunity to take photos and capture this emotional experience.
Day 12 - Sailing on Lago Argentino towards Estancia Cristina
We will start the day navigating among icebergs through the northern arm of Lake Argentino, enjoying the impressive views of the Patagonian landscape until we arrive at the remote Estancia Cristina. Upon disembarking, our expert guide will welcome us and we will begin the first part of the experience: a hike to the Waterfall of the Dogs, ascending along a trail that crosses a semi-arid ecotone, a transition zone between two distinct ecosystems. Along the way, we will be amazed by hidden landscapes and natural viewpoints, from which we can admire an impressive panorama ranging from Lake Argentino to Lake Pearson. Back at the estancia, we will tour the historic site, visiting the museum that narrates the life of pioneers and explore the surrounding area, including the old waterwheel, the Caterina River, and a small chapel. After a lunch break to recharge, the second part of the day will begin: a journey in specially equipped 4x4 vehicles, which will take us through old roads and rugged trails across the native forests of the Feruglio mountain range. During the trip, we will observe the impact that the passage of time and the retreat of the Upsala Glacier have left on the terrain. The adventure will culminate at the only land viewpoint of the Upsala Glacier, a sacred site within the estancia from where we get a majestic view of the glacier and its natural surroundings. Finally, we will return to the estancia to embark on the boat back to El Calafate, closing an unforgettable day in the heart of Patagonia.
Day 13 - Afternoon at a Patagonian Estancia
In the morning we drive to the estancia Nibepo Aike Estancia located within the Perito Moreno National Park. There and enjoying a wonderful view of the Cordillera de Los Andes will receive us with coffee, tea or mate cooked with dry cookies. Then we will walk through the South arm of lago Argentino where we will observe different folds in the Earth's crust demarcated by the variety of sediments that gave origin. Also walk trails among forests of beech and ñires in which inhabit a very varied fauna. Towards noon we will enjoy a great show of Creole skill test of reins and meekness of Criollo horses, then we will see a demonstration of sheep shearing and walk through the historical case of the stay will be where us stories of the first settlers in the area, to finish this tour with a visit to the Organic Orchard. After these activities, we will have opportunity to enjoy a typical lunch with grilled Patagonian lamb, sausages, chorizo steak, variety of salads and dessert. Then and now with new energies we will make a tour to the Crystal Hill in a way winding up and as we gain altitude will have a large panoramic town of stay, South, Rico arm arm and the Rock Lake, to finally take back to the city.
Day 14 - Return to Buenos Aires - Tango Dinner Show
We will transfer from the hotel to Calafate Airport to take the flight to Buenos Aires. Upon arrival at Metropolitan Airport in Buenos Aires, we will transfer you to the hotel.
In the evening we enjoy a dinner and Tango show at one of the best venues of Buenos Aires ( Homero Manzi / Complejo Tango / Señor Tango / La Esquina de Carlos Gardel / Madero Tango). The Tango has a special charm outside of its origin: From New York to Sydney, people that have never visited Argentina are left seduced by its mystique and sensuality. Others stay captivated by the music. This original tour traces in parallel the history of the city and that of the tango journeying by its different stages of development from its birth in the slums, to its consummation in the Avenida Corrientes and its later internationalization.
Day 15 - Ministro Pistarini International Airport
We will transfer you from the hotel to Ministro Pistarini International Airport to bid farewell to this beautiful country. End of our services.