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Adventure Tours   >   South America Adventure Tours   >  Discover Brazil, Argentina & Chile

Discover Brazil, Argentina & Chile Adventure Tour

South America

  • Argentina
  • Brazil
  • Chile

Experience the vibrant cultures of the bottom half of South America on a 17-day adventure to Chile, Argentina, and Brazil. Sip wine in Santiago, dance the tango in Buenos Aires, and soak up the sun on the famous beaches of Rio. Enjoying an ideal combination of guided excursions and free time, you're sure to fall for this alluring region.


Departure Tax  

USD $36


Optional Activities  

Isla Chiloé
- Chiloé Island Excursion (150USD per person)

Volcán Osorno
- Osorno Volcano Day Hike (130USD per person)

Puerto Varas
- Paso Desolacion Trek (120USD per person)

San Carlos de Bariloche
- Circuito Chico Tour (29USD per person)
- Bariloche Rafting (2400ARS per person)
- Horseback Riding Bariloche (42USD per person)
- Mountain Biking (300ARS per person)
- Hiking

Tigre
- Tigre Delta Excursion

Buenos Aires
- Optional Welcome Meeting for Travellers on Combos
- Teatro Colón Tour (800ARS per person)
- Buenos Aires Bike Tour

Puerto Iguazú
- Iguassu Falls Visit (70USD per person)

Iguaçu Falls
- Iguassu Helicopter Ride (460BRL per person)

Paraty
- Cachaça Distillery Visit (90BRL per person)

Rio de Janeiro
- Rio de Janeiro City Tour (240BRL per person)
- Rio Football Game (150-200BRL per person)


Tipping  

It is customary in Latin America to tip service providers such as waiters, at approximately 10%, depending on the service. Tipping is an expected - though not compulsory - component of your tour program and an expression of satisfaction with the persons who have assisted you on your tour. Although it may not be customary to you, it is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels. There are several times during the trip where there is opportunity to tip the local guides or drivers we use. Recommendations for tipping drivers and local guides would range from $5-10 USD per day depending on the quality and length of the service; ask your CEO for specific recommendations based on the circumstances and culture.

Also at the end of each trip if you felt your G Adventures CEO did an outstanding job, tipping is appreciated. The amount is entirely a personal preference, however as a guideline $20-25 USD per person, per week can be used.


A Couple of Rules  

Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not acceptable for our travellers. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter, and in particular the local people who make the world the special place it is. The exploitation of prostitutes is completely contrary to this philosophy. Our CEOs have the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or if they use prostitutes.


Feedback  

After your travels, we want to hear from you! Your feedback information is so important to us that we'll give you 5% off the price of your next G Adventures trip if your feedback is completed on-line within 30 days of finishing your trip. Your tour evaluation will be e-mailed to you 24 hours after the conclusion of your trip. If you do not receive the tour evaluation link in the days after your tour has finished, please drop us a line at customerservice@gadventures.com and we will send it on to you.


Travel Insurance  

Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your CEO, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy please bear in mind that all clients must have medical coverage and that we require a minimum coverage of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.


International Flights  

Check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport.


Important Notes  

1. TRAVEL DAYS
This trip covers a lot of ground and there are a couple of long travel days. These travel days are always balanced out by relaxing, well-paced days to ensure full enjoyment and the visited destinations more than make up for any long travel experienced.

2. COMBO TRIP
Please note that this trip is a combination of multiple G Adventures tours. As such, the staff and/or particular vehicles operating your tour may change between tour segments. You may also expect some group members to join or leave the tour, between tour segments.

3. WEATHER
In the winter season (May-August), it is still possible to make the ferry/bus Lake crossing in 1 day. However, in the rare instance of extremely poor weather, the trip may have to include an overnight along the way OR your CEO may decide to make the transfer by bus only. This would be a rare occasion, but if it is necessary, it in always in consideration of safety.

4. LUGGAGE WEIGHT ALLOWANCE
Please Note: Aerolineas Argentinas allows 1 piece of luggage that weighs up to 15kg on internal flights. If luggage is overweight, the airline charges 650 ARS at check-in (approx. 35 USD).


Packing List  

Cold Weather:
• Long-sleeved shirts or sweater
• Scarf
• Warm gloves
• Warm hat
• Warm layers

Documents:
• Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)
• Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)
• Passport (required) (With photocopies)
• Required visas or vaccination certificates (required) (With photocopies)
• Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)

Essentials:
• Binoculars (optional)
• Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)
• Cash, credit and debit cards
• Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)
• Ear plugs
• First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)
• Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)
• Fleece top/sweater
• Footwear
• Hat
• Locks for bags
• Long pants/jeans
• Moneybelt
• Outlet adapter
• Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)
• Reusable water bottle
• Shirts/t-shirts
• Sleepwear
• Small travel towel
• Sunglasses
• Toiletries (Preferably biodegradable)
• Watch and alarm clock
• Waterproof backpack cover
• Windproof rain jacket

Health & Safety:
• Face masks (required)
• Hand sanitizer (required)
• Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)
• Rubber gloves

Smart Dress:
• Smart outfit (For evenings out)

Warm Weather:
• Sandals/flip-flops
• Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended)
• Sun hat/bandana
• Swimwear


Highlights  

Taste the best Chilean wines before making your own with the help of an expert, learn some new moves with a tango lesson in a popular dance studio, enjoy a lesson on Chilean cuisine from a local family, visit an Afro-Brazilian community and enjoy a savoury local dish for lunch, marvel at the might Iguassu Falls


Spending Money  

Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.


What's Included  

Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Chilean Wine Experience, Santiago
Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Chilean Cultural Tour and Local Lunch, Puerto Varas
Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Local Tango Lesson, Buenos Aires
Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Iguaçu Falls, Flora and Fauna Lecture, Iguaçu Falls
Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Afro-Brazilian Community Visit, Paraty
Your Discover Moment: Buenos Aires. Arrival transfer. Visit Petrohue Falls. Scenic lake crossing aboard the "Cruce de Lagos". Buenos Aires city tour. Tour the Argentine and Brazilian sides of Iguazú Falls. City and food tour in São Paulo. Schooner tour. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.


Dossier Disclaimer  

The information in this trip details document has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However it is subject to change, and does not form part of the contract between the client and the operator. The itinerary featured is correct at time of printing. It may differ slightly to the one in the brochure. Occasionally our itineraries change as we make improvements that stem from past travellers, comments and our own research. Sometimes it can be a small change like adding an extra meal along the itinerary. Sometimes the change may result in us altering the tour for the coming year. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with the most rewarding experience. Please note that our brochure is usually released in November each year. If you have booked from the previous brochure you may find there have been some changes to the itinerary.

VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you print a final copy of your Trip Details to review a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans.


Joining Instructions  

Please note that day 1 is an arrival day and no activities have been planned on this day. Upon arrival to the city on day 1, please make your way to the joining hotel via your included transfer. Details on where to meet your transfer can be found in your voucher notes or on the G Adventures app.

If you have booked pre-tour accommodations through G Adventures, please note that you must contact us to confirm the included arrival transfer. Check-in time at your start hotel will be in the afternoon.

Once you arrive at the hotel, look for a note or bulletin board in the reception with a note from your CEO. This note will give the details of your Welcome Meeting on day 1.


Arrival Complications  

We don't expect any problems, and nor should you, but if for any reason you are unable to commence your trip as scheduled, as soon as possible please contact your starting point hotel, requesting that you speak to or leave a message for your CEO (if you are not on a group tour please refer to the emergency contact details provided in this dossier). If you are unable to get in touch with your leader, please refer to our emergency contact details. If you have pre-booked an airport transfer and have not made contact with our representative within 30 minutes of clearing customs and immigration, we recommend that you make your own way to the Starting Point hotel, following the Joining Instructions. Please apply to your travel agent on your return for a refund of the transfer cost if this occurs.


Health  

Please note inoculations may be required for the country visited. It is your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor for up to date medical travel information well before departure.

You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information well before departure. We recommend that you carry a First Aid kit and hand sanitizers / antibacterial wipes as well as any personal medical requirements. Please be aware that quite often we are in remote areas and away from medical facilities, and for legal reasons our leaders are prohibited from administering any type of drug including headache tablets, antibiotics, etc. When selecting your trip please carefully read the brochure and itinerary and assess your ability to cope with our style of travel. Please refer to the Physical and Culture Shock ratings for trip specific information. G Adventures reserves the right to exclude any traveller from all or part of a trip without refund if in the reasonable opinion of our CEO they are unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group.


Group Leader  

Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout, local guides.


Group Leader Description  

All G Adventures group trips are accompanied by one of our group leaders, also known as the CEO (Chief Experience Officer). The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting- we think it's the best of both worlds.


Group Size Notes  

Max 16, Avg 10.


Meals  

Eating is a big part of traveling. Travelling with G Adventures you experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available out in the world. Generally meals are not included in the trip price when there is a choice of eating options, to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. It also gives you more budgeting flexibility, though generally food is cheap. Our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though. Your CEO will be able to suggest favourite restaurants during your trip. For all trips please refer to the meals included and budget information for included meals and meal budgets.


Itinerary Disclaimer  

While it is our intention to adhere to the route described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable. The Trip Details document is a general guide to the tour and region and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. Aboard expedition trips visits to research stations depend on final permission.

Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances.


Transport  

Buses, ferry, plane, private van, walking.


Local Flights  

All local flights are included in the cost of your tour unless otherwise noted. It is important that we have your passport information at the time of booking in order to process these tickets. Internal flight tickets are issued locally and will be given to you prior to the flight departure.


Solo Travellers  

We believe single travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and single travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.


Accommodation  

Hotels (16 nts).


Joining Hotel  

For details of your joining hotel please refer to your tour voucher, G Account, the G Adventures App or contact your travel agent.


What to Take  

Most people automatically assume that the weather is hot in South America, but because of the higher altitude in the Andes, the temperature can feel quite cold, especially at night. We recommend the use of a duffel bag or backpack, whichever is easiest for you to carry. A good size daypack is also essential.


Emergency Fund  

Please also make sure you have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used when circumstances outside our control (ex. a natural disaster) require a change to our planned route. This is a rare occurrence!


Meals Included  

16 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners


My Own Room  

Please note that if you have booked the "My Own Room" option for this tour, you will receive your own single room for all night stops


Laundry  

Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels for a charge. There will be times when you may want to or have to do your own laundry so we suggest you bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap.


Max Pax  

16


Money Exchange  

The currency in Argentina is the Argentine Peso (ARS), in Chile the Chilean Peso (CLP) and in Brazil, the Brazilian Real (BRL)

Credit cards and debit cards are very useful for cash advances. Visa cards are the most widely accepted cards. While ATMs are widely available, there are no guarantees that your credit or debit cards will actually work in Latin America. Check with your bank.

You should be aware that to purchase products or services on a credit card a fee of 5%-10% usually applies.

Do not rely on credit or debit cards as your only source of money, a combination of US dollar cash and cards is best. Please bear in mind that cost of living in the southern cone countries (Argentina, Brazil, Chile) is much higher than the rest of South America, and in the case of Argentina, more comparable with Europe. Always take more rather than less, as you don't want to spoil the trip by constantly feeling short of funds.

We do not recommend bringing travellers cheques as they are very difficult to change in country.

CURRENCY EXCHANGE TIP: Please be advised that slightly torn notes, notes that have been heavily marked or are faded may be difficult to exchange. It is best to bring notes in fairly good condition, in denominations lower than 100USD (or equivalent).

As currency exchange rates can fluctuate often we ask that you refer to the following website for daily exchange rates: www.xe.com

Day 1 Santiago

Arrive at any time. Arrival transfer included.

Arrival day, no activities planned. The day is free to spend at your leisure exploring the city until our welcome meeting this evening.

Santiago is Chile's largest city and capital, with internationally recognized vineyards and Andean ski resorts very close by. Possible 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.

Should you want more time to explore Santiago and do optional day trips, we highly recommend you book additional pre-nights.

Day 2 Santiago

Spend the morning with a wine expert, visiting a local winery outside Santiago and discussing the process that makes Chilean wine some of the best in the world. Sample various wines and enjoy a vertical tasting.

Head out on an excursion to the Maipo Valley area for an in-depth look at the region that produces such fine quality wines. Chilean wine is top-notch, with only France and Italy selling more wine worldwide.

Day 3 Santiago/Puerto Varas

Fly to Puerto Varas, located in the stunning Chilean Lake District. Explore the countryside and Chilean culture as you visit the Puerto Montt's Angelmó fish market and the scenic town of Puerto Varas. After, visit a local family home and enjoy a “curanto," a beloved traditional dish. Mingle with your friendly hosts and try your hand at whipping up salsa pebre.

There are few areas in the world that can match the Chilean Lake District for scenic grandeur. Enjoy picture perfect views from snow-capped mountains to deep-blue and emerald lakes, smoking volcanoes, forests, and glaciers.

Day 4 Puerto Varas

Today is free to explore on your own. Opt to take an excursion to Chiloé Island.

Day 5 Puerto Varas/San Carlos de Bariloche

Travel by bus and ferry to Bariloche, Argentina. Visit the Petrohue Falls, then enjoy the sights from the “Cruce de los Lagos”, considered one of the most scenic cruises in the world.

The approximate journey time today is between 10 and 11 hours. This journey is by comfortable bus and a scenic ferry that crosses the Chilean/Argentine border. Travel time can change based on the time of year and weather conditions. During certain times of the year, the ferry cannot be used, which means we will travel overland by bus.

Day 6 San Carlos de Bariloche

Free time to explore this stunning region. Opt to take a bike tour, hike, or explore the town's shops and restaurants.

Bariloche in many ways resembles the alpine resorts of Europe. Sample a beef parrillada, or a variety of fresh salmon or lake trout, then take a day hike around Cerro Catedral or enjoy some shopping. It's also important to know that Bariloche is famous for its quality and quantity of chocolate!

Day 7 San Carlos de Bariloche/Buenos Aires

Fly to Buenos Aires and enjoy free time to explore this vibrant city.

Fly north to the buzzing metropolis that is Buenos Aires. Known as the “Paris of the Americas,” Buenos Aires is a vibrant city full of life.

Day 8 Buenos Aires

Enjoy a city tour of the "Paris of the Americas," visiting key sights and neighbourhoods including Plaza de Mayo, La Boca, and the famed Recoleta Cemetery. When you are done exploring, rest your weary feet and enjoy a drink in one of the many sidewalk cafés and restaurants. Spend the evening enjoying a night out with a light dinner in a local café before heading to a popular dance venue where we enjoy a lesson from local dancers. Opt to stay for Milonga, a neighbourhood tradition where students and teachers of the venue show up to practice their moves.

Day 9 Buenos Aires

Free day to explore this charming city. Opt to visit San Telmo for the antiques market and street art displays. Or spend the afternoon in the posh Recoleta area with cafés, museums, and a cemetery.

Day 10 Buenos Aires/Iguaçu Falls

Fly to Iguazú Falls and explore the Brazilian side to get the best panoramic view. This evening, enjoy a lecture with local biologist/botanist who will talk to us about the flora and fauna around the falls, and the uses of local plants for medicinal and healing purposes.

Fly north to the Iguazú Falls area, near the borders of Brazil, Paraguay, and Argentina. Cross the border from Argentina to Brazil to experience the panoramic view of the falls.

As if imposing Iguazú Falls - with its 275 waterfalls - couldn't get more impressive, the area surrounding this natural wonder is home to jaguars, ocelots, anteaters, and large toucans, among others. The falls and the national park by the same name were named UNESCO World Heritage sites in 1984.

Day 11 Iguaçu Falls

Explore the Argentinian side of the falls. Opt to take a boat tour to get a view of the falls from below. Return to Foz for the night.

Explore trails directly over the falls of the Devil's Throat - the highest and deepest of the falls. Other trails allow access to the stretch of falls across the forest on the Argentine side.

Day 12 Iguaçu Falls/São Paulo

Fly to São Paulo and discover the city through gastronomy and architecture. Visit some of the city's most noted sites. Along the way, a specialist guide will share his knowledge of popular local cuisine.

São Paulo is a huge, vibrant and very busy city. Traffic can be difficult and even driving out of the city can take longer than expected.

Day 13 São Paulo/Paraty

Drive to colonial Paraty. Visit an Afro-Brazilian community for a unique cultural interaction and enjoy a traditional meal. Opt to visit a cachaça distillery.

Day 14 Paraty

Enjoy an included schooner tour of the harbour's many islands and beaches.

Day 15 Paraty/Rio de Janeiro

Carry on by private van to Rio de Janeiro for free time to explore the city. Use our centrally located hotel in Copacabana as a base. Opt to take a city tour.

This massive city gets as many as five million international tourists every year to sip caipirinhas on the beach, dance the samba in the city's streets, and ascend Corcovado Mountain to see the truly monumental Christ the Redeemer up close.

Day 16 Rio de Janeiro

Explore vibrant Rio; sun, beach, and nightlife await. Opt to visit Christ the Redeemer and Sugar Loaf Mountain.

Day 17 Rio de Janeiro

Depart at any time.

Details

Duration: 17 Days

Travel Style: National Geographic Journeys

Trip Type: Small Group

Physical Grading: 2 - Light

Service Level: Upgraded



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