Compare Beyond the Vineyards: Sample Northern Portugal & Spain by Road Scholar vs Wonders of South America by Across South America

Day 1
In Transit to Program
In Flight

Day 2
Arrive Porto, Check-in, Orientation, Welcome Dinner
Porto D NH Collection Porto Batalha
Activity note: Hotel check-in available from 2:00 p.m.

Afternoon: Check in at the hotel and take some time to unpack and to relax before orientation. In the late afternoon, the group leader will greet everyone with a warm welcome and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule and any changes, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer any questions you may have. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may be changed due to local conditions/circumstances. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding.

Dinner: Become acquainted with your fellow participants at the welcome dinner at a local restaurant.

Evening: At leisure.

Day 3
Portugal Introduction & Treasures of Porto
Porto B,L NH Collection Porto Batalha
Activity note: Driving by motor coach in the city of Porto not more than 30 minutes without stops. The rest of the time will be site visits. Walking approximately two miles in Porto including over some steep slopes and uneven terrain, streets with cobblestones and staircases without railings

Breakfast: At the hotel.

Morning: We will begin our day with an introduction to Portugal and its overseas empire from a local expert. Learn how the country’s history shaped its people, culture, and cuisine. We will then enjoy an expert-led field trip of the charming city of Porto. With an expert, discover the downtown area, Boavista, the harbor, and the market, ending in the neighborhood of Matosinhos.

Lunch: Lunch and meeting with a local family.

Afternoon: We will continue our field trip of Porto, with a visit to the lively Ribeira riverside area - a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Later, with a local expert, visit some of the most significant buildings of the city, including the Stock Exchange Palace, known as Palacio da Bolsa. We will then continue back to the city center and enjoy the old Porto railway station. The first train arrived here in 1896, but the building, inspired by the French Belle Époque, was only officially inaugurated in 1915 where a convent once stood. Around 20,000 magnificent tiles alluding to the history of transport and Portugal cover most of the atrium.

Dinner: On your own to explore local cuisine.

Evening: At leisure.

Day 4
Aveiro, Costa Nova, and Ilhavo
Aveiro B,L Hotel Moliceiro
Activity note: Driving by motor coach for approximately 40 miles, maximum one hour without stops. Mostly flat ground but during the visit to the Museum and Factory of Vista Alegre, there will be required standing for almost one hour.

Breakfast: At the hotel.

Morning: After a lecture on the "Contemporary History of Portugal," we depart to Ilhavo to visit Vista Alegre Factory and Museum. This museum remembers the history of the most prestigious porcelain factory in Portugal. Its collection assembles 19th century glass and porcelain, depicting the evolution of Portuguese porcelain production, as well as the history of the factory and of its generations of owners.

Lunch: At the canteen.

Afternoon: In the afternoon drive to Aveiro through Costa Nova where “palheiros” make it quite unique - Palheiros are the traditional houses built in this coastal region. The remainder of the afternoon is on your own to relax or to discover the old streets along the town's canals, that contirbute to Aveiro's name as the "Portuguese Venice".

Dinner: On your own to explore local cuisine.

Evening: At leisure.

Day 5
Workshop on Portuguese cuisine, Moliceiro
Aveiro B,L Hotel Moliceiro
Activity note: Driving by motor coach for approximately 60 miles each way, 120 total miles driven with a maximum of one hour and thirty minutes on the coach without stops. Mostly flat, easy walking.

Breakfast: At the hotel.

Morning: We will drive inland to the mountains to take part in a workshop on Portuguese cuisine. Led by a local chef, we will also learn about the local Dao Wines.

Lunch: At the workshop.

Afternoon: After returning to Aveiro, enjoy a field trip with our group leader by colorful Moliceiro boat through the canals of the town, with a chance to taste the local sparkling wine and sweet "ovos moles."

Dinner: On your own to explore local cuisine.

Evening: At leisure.

Day 6
Coimbra & Amarante
Amarante B,D Hotel Casa Calçada
Activity note: Total driving distance is 111 miles today. In the morning, we will depart from Aveiro and have an evening arrival in Amarante. Stops en route for visits in Coimbra. Extensive walking and standing (2-3 miles, approx. 1-3 hours, at an even pace). You will encounter many cobblestone streets and sidewalks, uneven terrain and steps without railings and no elevators. Comfortable and sturdy footwear is essential.

Breakfast: At the hotel.

Morning: We will check out of the hotel and transfer to Coimbra via motorcoach. Join a local expert for a visit and private presentation of the University of Coimbra before enjoying an expert-led walking discovery of the city's old town. Home to the country’s most prestigious university, Coimbra was the medieval capital of Portugal with its historical buildings being designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Lunch: On your own in Coimbra.

Afternoon: Enjoy an introduction to Fado – Portugal’s powerful, melancholic folk music. Following the presentation, we will drive to the picturesque town of Amarante, the birthplace of many Portuguese writers and painters. The bridge at Amarante perpetuates the memory of the local population´s heroic resistance against Napoleon's troops, who invaded Portugal in the early nineteenth century. Amarante is also renowned for its sweets and cakes, which are found in many of the region's cake-shops. Don't miss the opportunity to taste them! Upon arrival at the hotel, we will check in for two nights.

Dinner: At the hotel.

Evening: At leisure.

Day 7
Wineries of the Douro Valley
Amarante B,L Hotel Casa Calçada
Activity note: Driving to the Douro Valley through motorways and national windy roads. Maximum time on the bus without stops is 1 hour and 30 minutes. Walking on mostly flat ground but will encounter some cobblestones.

Breakfast: At the hotel.

Morning: With our Group Leader, set out for a walk through Amarante and its Saturday countryside market before driving to the Douro Valley – classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2001. Visit a winery and take a local train through the green terraced valleys of Pinhao.

Lunch: At a private wine estate.

Afternoon: We continue our exploration of the Douro Valley journey for a visit of its vineyards and we will return to our hotel in Amarante by motorcoach.

Dinner: On your own to explore local cuisine.

Evening: At leisure.

Day 8
Quinta de Aveleda, Guimarães, & Santiago de Compostela
Santiago de Compostela B,D Hotel Virxe da Cerca
Activity note: The drive is about 186 miles or approximately three hours. Spain is one hour ahead of Portugal. Walking approximately two to three miles with long periods of standing in pedestrian areas with cobblestones or uneven ground. Driving from Amarante to Santiago de Compostela for the whole day. Stops en route for visits to the gardens of Quinta da Aveleda and to Guimarães.

Breakfast: At the hotel.

Morning: We will check out of our hotel and ride to Quinta da Aveleda with a local expert. This family owned property is known for its lush parks and gardens, where rare species of trees flourish, some of which have been around for over a hundred years. Aveleda is also at the heart of the Vinho Verde Demarcated Region, so you will have the chance to taste their wines. Later, continue to the UNESCO heritage town of Guimarães where a local expert will lead an exploration on the historic evolution of Guimarães from a Medieval settlement into a modern town. In UNESCO's words: “its rich building typology exemplifies the development of Portuguese architecture from the 15th to the 19th centuries, through the consistent use of traditional building materials and techniques.”

Lunch: On your own to explore local cuisine.

Afternoon: After some time on your own to explore Guimarães, we will drive across the border into Spain, arriving in Santiago de Compostela in the late afternoon.

Dinner: At the hotel.

Evening: At leisure.

Day 9
Contemporary Spain & Santiago de Compostela
Santiago de Compostela B,D Hotel Virxe da Cerca
Activity note: Walking approximately two to three miles with long periods of standing in pedestrian areas with cobblestones. Free time activities may involve additional walking.

Breakfast: At the hotel.

Morning: We will begin with a lecture focusing on Contemporary Spain: Cultural Diversity and Regional Division. Later, join an expert local instructor on a walking visit of Santiago de Compostela, including the magnificent cathedral with its fine examples of Romanesque and Baroque art. We will also visit Plaza Obradoiro, whose buildings represent the city’s 700 years of history, and Platerias Square, known for its Fountain of the Horses.

Lunch: On your own in Santiago.

Afternoon: Enjoy some free time.

Dinner: Savour a traditional Galician dinner at a local restaurant.

Evening: At leisure.

Day 10
Rias Baixas Wine Region
Santiago de Compostela B,L Hotel Virxe da Cerca
Activity note: Driving by motor coach for approximately 120 miles over the whole day, with breaks for field trips and site visits. We arrive back at the hotel late afternoon.

Breakfast: At the hotel.

Morning: We will transfer to the Rias Baixas for a full day field trip with a local expert. The landscapes of the Rias Baixas wine region starkly contrast with the stereotypical image many have of dry, hot, and arid Spain. Galicia is rich in Celtic influence, evident even today in its traditional instrument - "la Gaita" the bagpipe. It is known as a magical, superstitious region, with rolling, misty green hills, medieval castles, "Pazos" (historic manor houses), stunning coastline with hidden coves and sandy white beaches spotted with quaint fishing villages. Today, our expert will lead us through the Rias to discover this unique landscape and to taste the excellent, white Albariño wines of the region at a local bodega.

Lunch: At a local restaurant.

Afternoon: We will continue our discovery of the area, returning to the hotel in the late afternoon. Before dinner, enjoy an introduction to Galician music and folklore.

Dinner: On your own to explore local cuisine.

Evening: At leisure.

Day 11
Leon, Lugo, & Las Medulas Canyon
Leon B,D Hotel Eurostars Leon
Activity note: The drive is approximately 250 miles throughout the day from Santiago de Compostela to Leon with stops in Las Medulas and Lugo. Walking approximately one mile over cobblestone and uneven surfaces in Lugo. A steep uphill climb is required to reach the lookout point at La Medulas. Walking approximately two to three miles with long periods of standing in pedestrian areas with cobblestones. Free time activities may involve additional walking.

Breakfast: At the hotel.

Morning: We will check out of the hotel and head east to the city of Lugo, located on the banks of the river Miño. Dating from the third century, the city boasts remains of its Roman past, among them its ancient wall, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. With a local expert, we will explore the only city in the world to be surrounded by intact Roman walls.

Lunch: On your own to explore some of the city’s many renowned restaurants and tapas bars.

Afternoon: We will depart for Las Medulas, a spectacular, canyon-like landscape with its origins in a method of open cast gold-mining. With a local expert, we will learn about the unique archaeological significance of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Afterward, we will depart for Leon and check in at the hotel in the early evening.

Dinner: At the hotel.

Evening: At leisure.

Day 12
Historic Leon
Leon B,D Hotel Eurostars Leon
Activity note: Walking approximately two to three miles with long periods of standing in pedestrian areas with cobblestones. Free time activities may involve additional walking.

Breakfast: At the hotel.

Morning: With your guide, set off on a walking field trip through the former Roman garrison of Leon, whose history and architectural heritage spans from Celts and Romans to the neo-Classical, Gothic, and up to Modernist eras. Visit the Gothic cathedral, with its impressive stained glass windows, see the Pantheon of the Kings which contains some of the finest medieval frescoes in Europe, remarkably preserved and still in their original setting. You will also see the Casa de Botines, an uncharacteristically restrained neo-Gothic building designed by the great Catalan architect, Antoni Gaudi.

Lunch: On your own to explore local cuisine.

Afternoon: Enjoy some free time to relax and to enjoy the city.

Dinner: At a local restaurant.

Evening: At leisure.

Day 13
La Ribera Wine Region & La Granja de San Ildefonso
La Granja de San Ildefonso B,L,D Parador de la Granja
Activity note: Driving distance is 185 miles today, morning departure from Leon and evening arrival at La Granja. Stops en route for visits to the bodega and Ribera wine region.

Breakfast: At the hotel.

Morning: We will check out of our hotel and drive to the Ribera wine region, Spain's most exquisite production on the banks of the Duero River, where we will have the chance to meet local wine producers and learn about the dramatic changes to rural life since the advent of democracy in 1975.

Lunch: At a local restaurant.

Afternoon: We will continue our exploration of the region, before continuing south, arriving at our Parador hotel at La Granja de San Ildefonso in the early evening. La Granja is home to the royal palace built from 1721 to 1724 by King Philip V and modeled after the Palace of Versailles.

Dinner: At the hotel.

Evening: At leisure.

Day 14
La Granja & Segovia
La Granja de San Ildefonso B,L,D Parador de la Granja
Activity note: Walking approximately three miles through pedestrian areas of La Granja de San Ildefonso and Segovia which includes some cobblestones, slops, and steps without handrails. Driving distance approximately 20 miles today, no more than 1 hour aboard the motor coach.

Breakfast: At the hotel.

Morning: Join a local expert for a visit to La Granja; an early 18th-century palace situated in the cool mountains of the Sierra of Guadarrama. It was originally the summer residence of the kings and queens of Spain during the reign of Philip V and was constructed in a restrained Baroque style, surrounded by extensive gardens in the formal Jardin à la française style. Later, we will drive the short distance to the UNESCO world heritage city of Segovia for an expert led visit including the unique Roman Aqueduct and Alcazar.

Lunch: Enjoy a traditional lunch of suckling pig at one of the city's oldest restaurants.

Afternoon: We will return to the hotel to prepare for tomorrow's departure.

Dinner: Light meal at the hotel.

Evening: At leisure.

Day 15
Program Concludes
In Flight B
Activity note: Airport transfers beginning around 4:00 a.m. Hotel check-out by 11:00 a.m. See your program’s travel details regarding transfers.

Breakfast: Hotel breakfast, flight times permitting. This concludes our program.

Morning: If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on another rewarding program in the future. Don’t forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!

DAY 1 - Rio de Janeiro - Natural beauty, Carnival, samba and bossa nova

Welcome to Brazil! Arrive in Rio de Janeiro. Reception at Rio de Janeiro airport and transfer to your hotel.

Highlight: Stay in Copacabana Beach, in front of the most famous promenade beach in the world! A design from Lisbon was the promenade’s inspiration, and all stones used to build it in 1906 came from Portugal.

At the scheduled time, Welcome meeting with your experienced local guide. We will also provide our contacts, available 24hs, taking care of the details of your trip to make your trip a once-in-a-lifetime experience!

Did you know?

- Rio de Janeiro was the capital of Brazil for almost two centuries and was once the capital of one of the largest empires in the world, Portugal. The official language of Brazil? Portuguese, of course.

- Rio is also the cradle of Samba and Bossa Nova, two of the most important cultural manifestations in the country.

Meals: no meals included today.

Accommodation: Hotel Copacabana Palace, Rio.

Optional dinner upon request. We’ll suggest our favorite places to taste the best local Brazilian dishes.

DAY 2 - Rio de Janeiro’s Postcards: Christ Statue and Sugar Loaf

Today, a day full of spectacular views awaits you. You’ll visit the Iconic Christ Redeemer Statue and the Sugar Loaf Mountain. We include a great lunch between both places so you can enjoy the local cuisine of Rio while exploring its memorable trails and views.

Highlight #1: See one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the magnificent Christ the Redeemer, the iconic statue on top of Corcovado Hill, Rio’s most famous landmark. Corcovado Hill is part of the Tijuca Forest, the largest urban forest in the world. On the way to its top is the Dona Marta belvedere, from where it is possible to see the Maracanã Stadium, the famous Guanabara Bay, and the beautiful Sugar Loaf. Once at the top of Corcovado Hill, it is possible to admire breathtaking views of Copacabana, Ipanema, Leblon, Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon, and the Botanical Garden.

Highlight #2: Every year, over a million visitors visit the famous Pão de Açúcar (Sugar Loaf Mountain), an iconic symbol of Rio de Janeiro.

You’ll journey to the top in a glass cable car. The first cable car takes passengers to the top of Urca Hill, which rises 215 meters above sea level, and it will offer you spectacular views of the entire bay and its surrounding islands.

At Urca Hill, you’ll take the second cable car to the top of Sugar Loaf, which rises 395 meters above sea level and offers a 360 degrees view of the entire city, including Botafogo and Copacabana Beaches, Corcovado Hill, and Rio’s downtown.

Meals: Breakfast and lunch with drinks.

Accommodation: Hotel Copacabana Palace, Rio.

DAY 3 - Carnival and Samba Experience

You’ll learn about the Carnival, not only as a celebration but as the most relevant competition in Brazil. The Carnival is the biggest Brazilian cultural celebration where everyone has fun regardless of their origins.

Highlight: you will go behind the scenes of the Carnival and explore the complex of Samba City, where all Samba schools have their creation warehouses. Your expert local guide will tell you about the parade and customs.

Bonus: you’ll have the opportunity to see the progress on the confection of the costumes, and you’ll even have the chance to try the outfits.

Bonus 2: Are you looking for a fun afternoon and learning to dance the Samba? You can introduce yourself to the world of Samba. Enjoy a Dance lesson and head to nightclubs to try your first steps of Samba in Rio. You’ll interact with the locals, called the “Cariocas,” who will show you how to dance the Samba.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Hotel Copacabana, Rio.

DAY 4 - From Rio to the uniqueness of Iguazu Falls, Brazil

Today, you will fly to Foz de Iguassu, Brazil. Transfer from the hotel to Rio de Janeiro's airport. Once you arrive at Foz do Iguassu Airport, your driver will meet you and take you to your hotel.

Once settled at the hotel, you will visit the Falls from the Brazilian side. The National Park do Iguaçu in Brazil was declared World Natural Heritage by UNESCO in 1986 after the nomination of the Iguazu National Park in Argentina.

The day's highlight: You’ll enjoy awe-inspiring panoramic views, visiting the only circuit of walkways in front of the Falls.

Bonus: Enjoy the afternoon at the Belmond Iguazu, Brazil; Surrounded by lush rainforest, this pastel-pink hideaway will grant you exclusive access to the park—minus the crowds.'

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Belmond Iguazu Falls.

DAY 5 - Explore the Iguazu Falls National Park Argentina

Today, you will explore Iguazu Falls National Park with your bird & nature-obsessed expert guide.

We recommend entering the Iguazu Falls Park early in the morning to increase your chances of observing the different species of birds and fauna.

Today’s highlights:

- You’ll enjoy a scenic walk with an introduction to the geological formation of the Iguazú Falls, creating a special connection between humans and the natural environment.

- Be dazzled with more than 200 waterfalls from a natural scenery that places the human being in a unique context.

- Enjoy the most diverse fauna and flora. During this day, you’ll see birds, butterflies, mammals, flowers, and plants that contribute exceptional value to this experience. The main goal of this exploration is to enjoy the time in the open air and awaken your sensations' potential toward natural sounds, colors, images, and characteristic smells of the jungle.

Bonus: A visit to the falls isn't complete with "The Great Adventure," which includes a truck ride through the jungle and navigation that will take you very close to the waterfalls. Prepare yourself to get wet! (Minimum 12 years old).

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Belmond Iguazu Falls.

DAY 6 - Iguazu Brazil, arrive in Buenos Aires, Argentina

You’ll have free time to see the Falls early in the morning in near solitude, just before the crowds arrive.

After breakfast, your transfer will wait for your drive to Puerto Iguazu Airport on the Argentine side.

Flight to Buenos Aires. Arrive at the domestic airport and transfer to your hotel.

Highlight: stay in one of our favorite neighborhoods in Buenos Aires: Recoleta.

Upon arrival, transfer to the selected hotel. Welcome meeting with our experience manager to get acquainted with the Capital city of Argentina.

We will book you in a local barbecue and Argentinian steak restaurant. Let us know if you want other specialties (vegetarian, Latin, Italian influence, etc.). Buenos Aires is one of the most exciting cities in South America. Let us know what you love, from fancy restaurants to authentic little places.

You'll discover why this large South American city is the most exciting capital in the region; among other things, Buenos Aires will amaze you with the following:

- Bookstores everywhere (locals love to read!)

- The metro system, the oldest in Latin America

- The widest street in the world: Avenida 9 de Julio

- One of the most visited attractions is a graveyard at the Recoleta Cemetery.

- And the vibrant mix of European style with South American flair.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Alvear Palace, Buenos Aires.

DAY 7 - Buenos Aires: Passionate Tango and cosmopolitan city

You’ll enjoy a fun and informative exploration of the Historic District of Buenos Aires.

We will see Buenos Aires's history through its iconic buildings in Mayo Square and then head to the San Telmo district to explore the city’s architecture in this beautiful neighborhood. You'll learn about the history of this famous neighborhood and its culinary artisans, including some of Buenos Aires' best street eateries.

Bonus: taste the best local empanadas, “choris,” and medialunas.

Bonus 2: An evening full of Tango enjoying top-class dancers and a fine dining experience paired with excellent Malbec Red wines will complement this tasty day perfectly.

Meals: Breakfast and street food lunch.

Accommodation: Alvear Palace, Buenos Aires.

DAY 8 - Buenos Aires Culture Opera House, Recoleta Cemetery, Evita’s Traces

You will visit the fantastic Teatro Colon. The Colon Theatre is the iconic Opera house of Buenos Aires and one of the most important opera houses in the world. We will continue to Recoleta Cemetery to explore this magnificent place. We will continue to Evita’s Peron’s museum to see the great collection and enjoy a pleasant lunch. We will finally head to Palermo Soho to enjoy a nice walk through its colorful streets and learn about this trendy neighborhood's street art.

Bonus 1: See the Colon Theatre from the inside and learn about the impressive architecture.

Bonus 2: Explore the Recoleta Cemetery, an “open museum” full of rich art and sculptures—an ideal place to learn a part of Argentine history.

Today’s highlight is seeing Eva Peron’s resting place at the Recoleta Cemetery.

Bonus 3: Are you looking to enjoy more Tango in Buenos Aires? What about a fun afternoon learning how to dance the Tango? Enjoy a Tango lesson and head to the Local Milonga with one of our coaches to try your first steps of Tango while you interact with the locals; they will show you how to do it properly.

(this is an optional experience we can add to your trip-let we know in advance when we design your custom trip).

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Alvear Palace, Buenos Aires.

DAY 9 - Arrive in Patagonia - the Grand Glaciers

At the scheduled time, transfer from your hotel to the domestic airport to take your flight to El Calafate, Patagonia, Argentina. Upon arrival, your private transportation will take you to your hotel.

El Calafate is a picturesque village on the southern margin of Lake Argentino in the Andean mountain range; it is the starting point of any exploration of the Glacier’s land of Patagonia.

Fun facts you should know about Patagonia:

- Patagonia spans Argentina and Chile, in the southernmost part of South America.

- It occupies 260,000 square miles in both countries.

- The region is known for dramatic mountain peaks, an abundance of glaciers, and an array of unique wildlife.

Meals: Breakfast and dinner at the Lodge

Accommodation: Eolo Lodge.

DAY 10 - Be dazzled by the Perito Moreno Glacier

Today, an unforgettable experience is waiting for you.

You’ll live the magic of the Perito Moreno Glacier, visiting the Glaciers National Park, located 70 km from El Calafate.

What makes Perito Moreno Glacier so unique?

- Argentina’s Perito Moreno Glacier contains the world's third-largest reserve of freshwater.

- Perito Moreno Glacier is one of just two glaciers in South America growing, a remarkable fact as most of the world’s glaciers are shrinking because of climate change.

- It is located in the Glaciers National Park, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

We will tailor this day for you; you’ll be able to choose the adventure that best suits depending on the season you visit the Glacier:

The classic exploration:

- Enjoy the unique landscapes of Patagonia, the Andes, and the Argentine lake. And visit the walkways to appreciate the imposing Glacier from different angles, whose detachments and continuous noises indicate a permanent advanced movement.

- You’ll sail in front of the Perito Moreno Glacier to get a closer look at the fantastic variety of colors and listen to the sounds of nature.

The Minitrekking or Big Ice Trekking:

- Be part of a highly personalized small group of travelers looking for an unforgettable adventure.

- You’ll sail before the Perito Moreno Glacier and enjoy the most spectacular ice trekking of your life!

- The Minitrekking is a softer adventure, including 1- 15-minute ice trekking, while the Big Ice offers 3-hour trekking. The difficulty of trekking is different; while the Mini trekking offers a moderately complex and full-day tour of 9 hours, the Big Ice has a higher complexity and lasts 12 hours.

- Once on the Glacier, you’ll view its cracks, sinkholes, caves, and seracs.

Bonus! We will take care of the Gourmet picnic lunch for you, which will be prepared by the lodge.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch (at the hotel or Gourmet Picnic on the Glacier), and dinner at the hotel.

Accommodation: Eolo Lodge.

DAY 11 - Trekking and navigation in the Glaciers

This unique voyage will reveal to you the hidden corners of Southern Patagonia and the majestic splendor of its glaciers.

Highlights of your day:

- You’ll enjoy a full-day sailing journey to one of the most beautiful places in Southern Patagonia, with forests, lakes, mountains, ice, and steppes with over 200 glaciers.

- You’ll be amazed by the views of the Glaciers, the second largest ice concentration on the planet: the Patagonian ice field, after Antarctica.

- Witness majestic glaciers: the “Spegazzini,” rising 135 meters above sea level, “Upsala” covering an entire valley with an approximate extension of 765 Km2 and a length of 53km, and “Perito Moreno” Glacier, constantly advancing and causing the spectacular rupture of the wall of ice, providing one of Nature’s most impressive sights.

Bonus! Wait, there is more! Food and wine lovers, enjoy this spectacular day at the exclusive Premium deck on the upper level, tasting a gourmet lunch with excellent wines from Argentina.

Meals: Breakfast, Gourmet Lunch with wines, and dinner at the hotel.

Accommodation: Eolo Lodge.

DAY 12 - From El Calafate to Puerto Natales. From the Argentine Glaciers to the Chilean Glaciers.

Transfer from El Calafate to Puerto Natales, and transfer to your hotel.

Puerto Natales it the main gate to visit Torres del Paine National Park.

DAY 13 - Torres del Paine, Mother's nature at best

Torres del Paine National Park is known for its soaring mountains, bright blue icebergs that cleave from glaciers, and golden pampas (grasslands) that rare shelter wildlife such as llama-like guanacos.

How you’ll explore Torres del Paine: Today:

You’ll explore this gorgeous place at your own pace. Our team will assist you in coordinating this day's experience in advance to discover the 8th World Natural Wonder through adventurous treks with different levels of difficulty and duration or with a leisurely pace, such as a photo safari.

Bonus: Seeing one of its most iconic sites: “Cuernos del Paine,” the three granite towers from which the park takes its name and the horn-shaped peaks.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: The Singular Patagonia

DAY 14 - From Patagonia to Santiago de Chile

Saying goodbye to Patagonia is hard! Today your private transportation will drive you to Puerto Natales airport. Upon arrival, your friendly driver will welcome you and take you to your hotel in Santiago de Chile, where you will spend the next two nights.

More Fun Facts You Should Know about Chile:

- Chile is one of the longest and narrowest countries in the world
- Chile is the sixth-largest producer of wine globally.
- Chile’s national liquor is called “pisco.”
- Chile’s national poet “Pablo Neruda,” received the Nobel Prize in Literature.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: The Singular, Santiago de Chile.

DAY 15: Visit to our favorite markets in Santiago

You’ll kick off the day with a visit to our favorite markets in Santiago to pick up the ingredients needed for today’s memorable culinary experience. La Vega Market is known for its vegetables, meat, and fruits; you’ll see the Historic Central Market, famous for the fresh fish, and the Quincalleria Bio Bio market, offering all you need, incredibly unique fruits.

At our picked local Restaurant, savor pisco sour and a selection of Chilean wines while the Chef leads the cooking lesson that will introduce you to quintessential Chilean dishes.

Good to know: Depending on the day of the week you visit Santiago de Chile, you’ll see other fabulous little markets unique to Santiago.

Bonus 1: After your fantastic lunch, visit Santiago’s main attractions.

Bonus 2: Savour the delights of a day, well spent over your gourmet dinner at one of Santiago’s best restaurants (we will offer our restaurant suggestions and book a table for you upon request).

Meals: Breakfast and Lunch with drinks and wines.

Accommodation: The Singular, Santiago de Chile

DAY 16 - Valparaiso and Vina del Mar Food and Cultural Journey

From Santiago, eat to the coast and back with this tour that will give you a glimpse and a taste of Valparaiso and Viña del Mar.

Highlights you’ll enjoy today:

- Explore the Coastal Mountain ranges through the picturesque Curacavi Valley and Casablanca wine region to Valparaiso.

- You will see beautiful old buildings reflecting the lost wealth of the past

- ride one of Valparaiso’s famous antique funiculars servicing the winding and colorful hilltop streets of Cerros Alegre and Concepcion.

While you wander the many cobble streets, passages, and staircases, you’ll learn about Valparaiso’s golden years as one of the wealthiest cities in the world and the most important port in South America; and its sad decline after the opening of the Panama Canal.

Bonus 1: Along the way, you will have the chance to sample some of Chile’s favorite foods; a famous South American cookie, Chile’s favorite food, craft beer, other Chilean dishes, and Chile’s favorite dessert - ice cream, with a flavor you may have never seen before.

Bonus 2: This tasty day trip finishes with a well-deserved rest, a traditional Pisco Sour, and “picoteo” (snack) of Chilean products

You’ll return to Santiago for a quick look around Viña del Mar and a last view of the Pacific before dropping you at your hotel.

Meals: Breakfast and Lunch with stops for tasting different foods, including drinks and Pisco Sour.

Accommodation: The Singular, Santiago de Chile

DAY 17 - Santiago de Chile - Lima, Peru Gastronomic Capital

Say goodbye to Chile. Today transfer to Buenos Aires International Airport for your flight to Lima, Peru. Upon arrival, your private transportation will take you to your hotel.

The highlight of your visit to Peru:

- You’ll witness how the Inca descendants have successfully and proudly preserved their culture and traditions.

- The Quechua and the Aymara are the two primary native cultures of Peru, and they still speak their native languages.

Good to know for your visit to Lima: Make sure you try the local food! Lima is considered the Gastronomic Capital of Latin America.

A personalized historical and culinary visit to Lima, the capital of Peru, is the first highlight of this fantastic trip’s leg!

What you’ll do:

- You’ll enjoy the most spectacular view of the Pacific Ocean when you visit the famous Love Park in Miraflores, followed by the city center visit.

- Food Lovers! Taste different meals and Peruvian drinks in Barranco, the neighborhood bohemian from Lima.

- You’ll have a great time learning to prepare the famous ceviche and pisco sour, taste the lomo saltado and participate in a fruit and chocolate tasting.

Meals: Breakfast. Dinner with drinks and Cocktails.

Accommodation: Hotel B

DAY 18 - Lima - Cusco, a gem of a city

After breakfast, your private transportation will take you to Lima’s airport for your flight to Cusco. Upon arrival, our friendly local representative will wait for you to take you to your hotel.

The highlight of your day: You are high up in the Peruvian Andes! Cusco was once the center of the Incan Empire. It is the launching point for Machu Picchu – Peru's largest tourist attraction - but the city is well worth a visit to acclimate and experience the mix of the Incan and Spanish influences that define it.

After checking in at the hotel, you’ll meet your local expert guide for a personalized visit to the imperial city of Cuzco, a place with abundant ancient Inca culture.

You’ll explore the best archeological remains from the Incan times in the surroundings of Cusco. We also suggest that you spend some time seeing the great Colonial Art sites such as The Cathedral, famous for its gold and silver baroque style; Qoricancha, the Temple of the Sun;

Meals: Breakfast.

Accommodation: Palacio Nazarenas, A Belmond Hotel.

DAY 19 - Inca's Sacred Valley explorer

Enjoy today a visit to the Inca´s Sacred Valley: Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Chincheros, Maras, and Moray. You’ll travel crossing beautiful Quebradas, rivers, and a colorful landscape that allows you to appreciate archaeological monuments and indigenous towns with the beautiful Inca culture.

Highlights you’ll enjoy today:

- Get to see a special place that was once the Inca center of religious ceremonies, which included enormous palaces, estates, and a temple, the Sacred Valley; Be transported in time while you visit the Ollantaytambo and Pisac Ruin.

- You are seeing one of the largest salt extraction centers of prehispanic origin in the region of Cusco and of the current territory of Peru: the salt mines of Maras.

- See a mysterious archeological site that used to be used as an experimental farm by the Incas over 500 years ago.

DAY 20 - Conquering Machu Picchu, a wonder of the ancient world

Today, we will head to Machu Picchu, located only 50 miles from Cuzco; however, it’s not the most straightforward place to get to.

Fun facts about Machu Picchu:

- Machu Picchu is a symbol of the Incan Empire, built around 1450AD;

- UNESCO designated Machu Picchu a World Heritage Site in 1983 and was named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007.

- “Machu Picchu” means “Old Peak” or “Old Mountain” in the Quechua Indian language.

How you’ll get to Machu Picchu:

On this trip, You’ll travel by train towards the station of Aguas Calientes; You’ll arrive after a 4-hour journey and a short bus ride for a 30-minute uphill ride up to the entrance of the fabulous Machu Picchu citadel.

There are different categories of trains: we suggest the Vistadome, which will offer you great views during the journey. For a luxurious experience, we can upgrade to the Hiram Bingham for an extra fee.

A day you will never forget.

The best way to Visit Machu Picchu is with an expert local guide. You will admire the Ruin’s stairways, temples, sanctuaries, and terraces, and you’ll understand how Machu Picchu is a testament to the power and ingenuity of the Inca empire.

Relax! There is no rush since you’ll spend the night in Aguas Calientes; there is plenty of time for you to enjoy the ruins at your own pace. In addition, you will be able to do some extra exploration the following day.

Accommodation: Belmond Sanctuary Lodge.

DAY 21 - Machu Picchu, Aguas Calientes, Cusco

Before returning to Cusco, you will have some free time to rest or walk around Aguas Calientes.

If you want to revisit Machu Picchu Ruins or climb Huayna Picchu (limited places - book in advance), it is possible to do it during this free morning; however, you’ll need another admission ticket we can include with anticipation.

During the afternoon, you’ll travel back to Cusco for your last night in the city.

Meals: Breakfast.

Accommodation: Palacio Nazarenas, A Belmond Hotel.

DAY 22 - Cusco - Farewell!

Today is the end of this fantastic 14-day journey through the most amazing places in South America.

Your transportation will take you to the airport at the scheduled departure for your flight back home. We can include a late check-out at the hotel so you can conveniently organize your return; you can also leave the luggage at the hotel and enjoy some free time before your departure.

(Your late checkout involves an additional charge and will be subject to availability).

Meals: Breakfast.

Accommodation: Palacio Nazarenas, A Belmond Hotel (check out 10 am).