Expedition Details
From Iguazú Falls to the vast Patagonian steppe, Argentina's natural magnificence is legendary. Its vibrant culture fuses modern style with old-world charm; and strong traditions of art, music, and architecture accent a tumultuous history of colonialism and passionate politics. Immerse yourself in the rhythms of Buenos Aires; and explore Iguazú Falls, the Lake District, the Patagonian steppe, and the mountains and vineyards of Mendoza.
Trip Highlights
- Experience the UNESCO World Heritage site of Iguazú Falls from both the Argentine and the Brazilian sides.
- Glide across Lake Nahuel Huapí for a day of hiking on beautiful Victoria Island.
- Head into the mountains of the Patagonian steppe with an Andean condor expert.
- Sample fine vintages in the bodegas of Mendoza and enjoy dinner at the restaurant of one of Argentina's most celebrated chefs.
Itinerary - 12 Days
Days 1 & 2 — U.S./Buenos Aires, Argentina
Depart on an overnight flight to Buenos Aires, arriving the following morning. Check into our hotel and enjoy time to relax. This afternoon, discover the cobblestoned lanes of San Telmo, known for its local market and its traditional Sunday antiques fair, and stroll past colorful houses and tango street performers in La Boca. Wander through the Recoleta Cemetery, where Eva Perón and many of the country's most important political and cultural icons were laid to rest. Tonight, gather for a welcome reception and dinner.
Loi Suites Recoleta (D)
Day 3 — Iguazú National Park
Spanning the border with Brazil in the northeastern corner of Argentina, the hundreds of cascades of Iguazú Falls form one of the most impressive natural sights on the planet. The lush surrounding forests, fed by Iguazú's mists, are home to many rare species of flora and fauna, including giant anteaters, howler monkeys, jaguars, toucans, and red-spectacled parrots. After a morning flight from Buenos Aires, cross the border into Brazil for breathtaking, panoramic views of these tremendous falls—some of the largest in the world.
Loi Suites Iguazú (B,L,D)
Day 4 — Iguazú National Park/Buenos Aires
Our exploration of Iguazú Falls continues on the Argentine side of the park. Follow a series of trails, bridges, and catwalks along the upper edge of the falls and enjoy a bird's-eye view of the impressive Garganta del Diablo (Devil's Throat). Approach the falls in a Zodiac to experience the thundering rush of water and take in spectacular close-up views of the cascades. Late this afternoon, fly back to Buenos Aires and enjoy an evening to explore on your own.
Loi Suites Recoleta (B,L)
Day 5 — San Carlos de Bariloche
A morning flight brings us to the alpine resort city of San Carlos de Bariloche, in the heart of the Lake District, arguably one of the country's most beautiful regions. Here snow-dusted peaks rise high above pristine lakes and evergreen forests, and charming alpine villages dot the slopes. Our home in the Lake District is the lovely El Casco Art Hotel, perched on the banks of Lake Nahuel Huapí and filled with a splendid collection of Argentine art. Take advantage of free time this afternoon to relax at the hotel and explore the lakefront.
El Casco Art Hotel (B,L,D)
Day 6 — Patagonian Steppe
Venture out to the Patagonian steppe, an immense and rugged area that stretches east across the country to the Atlantic Ocean. In the company of an internationally renowned condor expert, learn about the nearby mountains' importance as a sanctuary and nesting area for the Andean condor. Spot condor nests and examine surreal rock formations on a hike before enjoying a traditional Patagonian barbecue lunch.
El Casco Art Hotel (B,L)
Day 7 — Victoria Island
Sail across Lake Nahuel Huapí's shimmering blue waters to Victoria Island, a sliver of an island blanketed by verdant forests. Gather for an al fresco lunch on the lakeshore before setting off on a hike through groves of cypress, giant sequoia, and evergreen coigüe trees. Spot a wide variety of birdlife including cormorants, hummingbirds, and woodpeckers, and keep your eye out for the pudú, the smallest deer in the world.
El Casco Art Hotel (B,L,D)
Day 8 — Mendoza
Fly to the bustling city of Mendoza, gateway to the country's most celebrated wine-making region. Known the world over for its robust Malbecs, the province of Mendoza combines picturesque vineyards and architecture with an unmistakable old-world charm. Stroll the city's stately tree-lined avenues and enjoy lunch in the beautiful Maipú area at the base of the Andes.
Park Hyatt Mendoza (B,L,D)
Day 9 — Mendoza
Our introduction to Mendoza wine country begins in the Luján de Cuyo region, south of the city of Mendoza. Venture into classic bodegas to learn about local grapes and sample varieties of Malbec, Tempranillo, and Chardonnay. Then sit down to a hearty lunch with wine pairings. This afternoon, encounter Mendoza's thriving artistic community on a visit to a local artist's atelier.
Park Hyatt Mendoza (B,L)
Day 10 — Mendoza
Head into the Andes mountains on a morning hike and take in awe-inspiring views of its snow-clad peaks. In the afternoon, visit a bodega that specializes in sparkling wines. Celebrate our journey with a special farewell dinner at the acclaimed restaurant 1884, and sample the inventive cuisine of Francis Mallmann, one of Argentina's most renowned chefs.
Park Hyatt Mendoza (B,L,D)
Days 11 & 12 — Mendoza/Buenos Aires/U.S.
Fly to Buenos Aires and spend the afternoon exploring Argentina's cosmopolitan capital. Head down to the Plaza de Mayo, the political heart of the city; and visit La Casa Rosada, the pink presidential palace, and the Metropolitan Cathedral with its neoclassical facade. Early this evening, transfer to the airport for your return flight, and arrive home the following day.
(B,L)
Optional Extension
- Buenos Aires and Colonia, Uruguay - Post-Trip Extension, 3 Days
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Eduardo Shaw
Naturalist and lecturer Eduardo Shaw grew up on ranches on the Argentine Pampas and has lived in Northwestern Patagonia for more than 20 years. He has worked throughout Argentina, Brazil, and Chile with non-profits promoting sustainability. Eduardo has traveled the length and breadth of Argentina—a vast country with enormous variation in its landscapes, wildlife, and history. He looks forward to sharing his knowledge and passion for the remarkable country of Argentina.
Eduardo will join the following departures:
Nov 03 - 14, 2012 • Dec 29, 2012 - Jan 09, 2013
