Compare Uruguay self-drive by Audley Travel vs Argentina, Uruguay & Brazil Discovery 2023 Classic Group by Insight Vacations
Compare details and see what other travelers are saying.
| Trip |
5 | Excellent
|
5 | Excellent
|
| Duration | 15 days | 11 days |
| Price From | $ 4,614 | $ 5,395 |
| Price Per Day | $ 308 | $ 490 |
| Highlights |
N/A
|
|
| Trip Style | Private guided tour | Group tour |
| Lodging Level | Standard | Premium |
| Physical Level |
|
|
| Travel Themes |
|
|
| Countries Visited | ||
| Cities and Attractions |
|
|
| Flights & Transport | Ground transport included | Airfare included |
| Activities |
|
|
| Meals Included | N/A | N/A |
| Description |
Uruguay is arty, wealthy and well-groomed. But, away from its cities and polished beach resorts, things get a little wilder. Gauchos canter across open pampas, and sand dunes flank tiny fishing villages where time seems to stand still. Though it’s sandwiched between Argentina and Brazil, our specialists think Uruguay merits a trip in its own right (although it proves a rewarding next step from its bordering countries). They’ve explored it on foot, on horseback, and behind the wheel, and they’ll use this knowledge to help you make the most of your holiday to Uruguay, however long you choose to spend here. |
Treat yourself to the finer things in life as you sip Copacabana Beach cocktails in Rio, shop the Tango District antique markets in Buenos Aires and unwind at a spa hotel, overlooking the mists of the Iguazú Falls in Argentina. In the vineyards of Mendoza, stop to sample the flavors of Argentina’s revered wine region with an indulgent Malbec tasting, followed by a delicious dinner of Asado Porteño —traditional Argentinian barbecue made with a medley of marinades. Cross the Rio de la Plata to explore the UNESCO World heritage city of Colonia del Sacramento, before journeying onwards for an adventure in Rio de Janeiro. Follow in the footsteps of your Local Expert for an exclusive guided tour of the Rio Botanical Garden—a precious collection of the world’s oldest trees and exotic orchids. |
Day 1 : International outbound flight
Today you begin your journey by boarding your international outbound flight to Montevideo.
Day 2 : Jose Ignacio
On arrival this morning you will be met and assisted with the collection of your hire car. You will then hit the road to head to Jose Ignacio.
Day 3 : Jose Ignacio
Exploring Jose Ignacio and the Atlantic coast at leisure with your hire car.
Day 4 : Jose Ignacio
Exploring Jose Ignacio and the Atlantic coast at leisure with your hire car.
Day 5 : Estancia El Charabon
You will drive further north into Rocha arriving into your estancia.
Day 6 : Estancia El Charabon
Activities or relaxation from your estancia.
Day 7 : Estancia El Charabon
Activities or relaxation from your estancia.
Day 8 : Montevideo
You will drive back to the capital city today arriving into Montevideo and your stylish hotel in the trendy Pocitos neighbourhood.Enjoy the complimentary evening wine tastings in the hotel bar.
Day 9 : Montevideo
Your guide will meet you in the morning for a half day tour of Montevideo.
Day 10 : Carmelo
Back on the road today and you journey west to Uruguay's wine country.
Day 11 : Carmelo
Exploring the wineries in your hire car.
Day 12 : Colonia del Sacramento
A short drive south today as you journey to the UNESCO World Heritage town of Colonia del Sacramento.
Day 13 : Colonia del Sacramento
Exploring Colonia with your guide.
Day 14 : Colonia del Sacramento
Returning the car at Montevideo Airport you will take your night flight home.
Day 15 : International return flight
Arrive home today to complete your journey.
Day 1: Arrive in Buenos Aires
Nicknamed the “Paris of South America”, this glamorous destination really does live up to its European counterpart. Neoclassical, Art Nouveau and Art Deco buildings line its streets, attracting equally as sophisticated travelers. On arrival, you’ll be transferred to your luxury hotel, the Alvear Icon. Located on the banks of the Río de la Plata in Puerto Madero, it’s a modern venue that offers panoramic views of the city.Relax and unwind before meeting your Travel Director and fellow guests for a three-course Welcome Dinner with wine.
Day 2: Explore Buenos Aires Relaxed Start
Start your first full day in Buenos Aires with a city tour. Take in the capital's key sights including the Metropolitan Cathedral, Casa Rosada and Plaza de Mayo.Later, visit the historic Mercado San Telmo. Built in 1897, this indoor market is situated in the Tango District, in the heart of the San Telmo neighbourhood.Witness a private demonstration and performance by professional tango dancers at an authentic “conventillo” in La Boca, where you will be introduced to this passionate dance and upbeat music.In the evening, enjoy an authentic Asado Porteno (Argentinian barbecue) with a local chef.
Day 3: On to Colonia del Sacramento
Today you’ll travel by ferry across the Rio de la Plata, otherwise known as the River Plate.Visit the city of Colonia del Sacramento, with its charming cobbled streets and historic buildings. Now a UNESCO World heritage site, this colourful destination was originally founded by the Portuguese in the 1600s.Enjoy lunch with wine at a local olive farm, Viñedos y Olivares del Quintón, known for their characteristic terrain and thermal air, the perfect setting for vineyards and olive groves. In the afternoon, take a guided walking tour of the protected old city and its 16th century buildings. It is your third and final night in Bueno Aires, so why not head out into the city to watch a tango performance or ask your Travel Director where is best to enjoy a relaxing dinner?
Day 4: Buenos Aires to Mendoza
It’s time to head to the wine country of Argentina, the city of Mendoza. Board your flight to this bustling location. From the Art Deco buildings that line its streets, to its quaint coffee shops and esteemed wineries, you’ll be taken to the heart of Argentinian culture.
Day 5: Flavour of Mendoza Relaxed Start
Today, choose to enjoy a leisurely three winery tour with Malbec tastings and lunch. Learn more about winemaking and take in the area's scenery while you indulge on the rich, dark, fruity flavours of the region's most famous beverage. Alternatively, choose to visit the Villavicencio Natural Reserve, located in the middle of the Andes. Join a Local Expert on a guided hike for exquisite views of the region and a picnic style lunch.Later, savour a delicious dinner with wine at Abrasado, an Argentinian steakhouse. Situated in Downtown Mendoza, you’ll be close to some of the city’s best wine bars, shops and restaurants. Why not end the evening with a nightcap?
Day 6: Mendoza to Iguassu Falls
With over 270 waterfalls, rare flora and fauna, and lush rainforest, your destination really is as impressive as the photos suggest. Meaning “big water” in the Guaraní language, the stunning falls land in both Argentina and Brazil. Stay on the Argentinian side of the National Park for two nights, at the luxurious Gran Melia hotel. With two outdoor pools, a modern spa and a stylish interior, you’ll be able to relax and rejuvenate in a fitting manner. Have a night at leisure as you take in your beautiful surroundings.
Day 7: Sightseeing at Iguassu Falls Relaxed Start
Take in breathtaking views of the jungle and falls, before heading out with a Local Expert to explore the Argentinian side of the park. Take an optional Gran Aventura boat ride to Devil’s Throat, the largest and perhaps most famous water cascade in the park. This u-shaped waterfall contains 14 falls in total and is more than 262 feet (80 metres) high. Your Highlight Dinner will be served at The Argentine Experience where you'll learn how to prepare your own wine based cocktail, and your own empanadas. Afterwords, savour an Argentinian picada and sample mate and Alfajores, Argentina's famous national sweet. To enhance your dining experience, your dishes will be complemented by Argentinian wines.
Day 8: The Brazilian Side
Wake up inside the National Park and enjoy breakfast with a tropical view at your hotel. Today you’ll take a guided visit to the Brazilian side of Iguassu Falls. While the walk around the Brazilian side is shorter, it's no less impressive. The falls are further away which allows you take in all of them at once with a unique vantage point. Your Local Expert will show you panoramic views of San Martin Island, before you head to the airport for your flight to Rio. Move on to the capital of samba and the home of iconic Copacabana Beach, famous for its stretch of golden sand. Your luxury hotel is situated on the beach itself. The rest of the evening will be at leisure. Either relax at your hotel or head out and explore the area’s local nightlife.
Day 9: Explore Rio de Janeiro
This morning, visit a local produce market and sample some of Brazil's unique fruits. Afterwards, join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience with a local botanist for a special guided visit to Rio’s Botanical Garden, a preservation site for a rare collection of bromeliads and orchids, as well as old trees and exotic plants. Made up of museums, research and cultural centres, the park showcases over 6500 different species of plants, both local and foreign. Enjoy a Highlight Lunch with a classic caipirinha cocktail at Casa Camolese, a contemporary restaurant situated next to the garden. Conclude your day with a cable car ride up to Sugarloaf Mountain.
Day 10: Leisure time in Rio de Janeiro Relaxed Start
In the morning, take a tour of Tijuca Forest National Park, where you’ll find Mount Corcovado, home to the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue.Spend the afternoon at leisure. Why not soak up the sun on Copacabana Beach or ask your Travel Director for the best spot to grab a Brazilian coffee?In the evening, commemorate your holiday as you join your new friends for a memorable Celebration Dinner at a traditional Brazilian churrascaria, offering views of the Sugarloaf Mountain.
Day 11: Depart Rio de Janeiro
It’s time to say goodbye to your fellow travelers as your trip comes to an end. Take our organised transfer to Rio de Janeiro-Antonio Carlos Jobim International Airport.
