South America Samba

Golden swathes of famous coastline, tropical landscapes, and a certain joie de vivre will welcome you to one of the world’s most vibrant cities, Rio de Janeiro. Energy pulses through every pore of this passionate and fun-loving city, flooding from the favelas to the football fields and culminating in nightly parties where the caipirinhas are free-flowing and the samba rhythm is infectious. Rio may be best known for its annual Carnival, but visiting here you’ll realise that every day is cause for celebration. Settle into your hotel before meeting up with your Travel Director this afternoon. Then perhaps hit the sands of Copacabana to watch the sun set whilst you sip your first cachaça.

Start your day in Rio’s charming Cosme Velho district, where you’ll hop on a historic cogwheel train and wind your way through the lush Tijuca Forest. At the top of Mount Corcovado, take in the awe-inspiring 30-meter Christ the Redeemer, an icon of Rio and one of the New 7 Wonders of the World. After soaking in panoramic views of the “Marvelous City,” it's time to hit Rio's famous beaches—Copacabana and Ipanema. This evening, savor the flavors of South America at Carretão Ipanema Churrascaria, a traditional Brazilian rotisserie inspired by the centuries-old fireside roasts of the gauchos.

• Visit Corcovado and the iconic Christ the Redeemer

Your last full day in Rio is all yours—so make it count. You could keep the energy high with one of our Optional Experiences, from high-flying cable cars up Sugar Loaf to samba-fuelled nights at dazzling shows like Aquele Abraço at the Roxy Dinner Show. Nature lovers might want to head into the Tijuca Forest or stroll the Botanical Park under Christ the Redeemer. Into your history or prefer city vibes? Explore colonial landmarks, street markets and Rio’s modern icons on a panoramic city tour. Or, do Rio your own way: hit the beach, grab an icy caipirinha and watch the world go by. However you spend it, one thing’s for sure—this city knows how to leave a lasting impression.

Leaving the colorful costumes and infectious rhythms of Rio behind, this morning you’ll head to the airport to catch your flight to Iguassu Falls. Words can’t really describe the magnificence of the world’s largest series of waterfalls (275 to be exact), which straddle the border between Argentina and Brazil and are surrounded by lush expanses of national park. Settle in to your hotel this afternoon and spend the evening relaxing, no doubt bubbling with excitement for the natural spectacle that tomorrow will bring.

This afternoon, you can opt to join a Optional Experience with a visit to a bird park on a Make Travel Matter® Experience where you can spot more than 150 different species of birds.

Today, you'll be hopping from Brazil to Argentina, crossing the Fraternity Bridge into the lush Argentinian Iguassu National Park. As you pass through customs, you'll collect another passport stamp before driving through the wildlife-rich jungle to the falls. The Argentinian side offers equally impressive views, giving you a fresh perspective on this natural wonder. Hop aboard the open-sided Ecological Jungle Train, a peaceful and scenic ride that takes you to Devil’s Throat for another jaw-dropping encounter with the falls. After soaking up the sights and sounds of Iguassu one last time, it’s off to the airport for your flight to Buenos Aires—a city bursting with passion, European flair, and irresistible energy.

• Ecological Jungle Train Ride

Waking up in the vibrant city of Buenos Aires is sure to excite. This tango-loving, meat-obsessed capital blends European charm with urban edge, where street art adds color to every corner. Start your day with a sightseeing tour, taking in 9 de Julio Avenue—the widest in the world—along with the stunning Colon Theater, Plaza de Mayo, the Metropolitan Cathedral and the historic district of San Telmo. End your tour in the colorful streets of La Boca, where you'll have free time to explore this renowned neighborhood at your own pace. Later this afternoon, continue exploring with a variety of Optional Experiences. For a cultural twist, visit "El Querandi" for a wine tasting or you can always choose to embrace the spirit of Buenos Aires with a tango lesson!

• Buenos Aires City Tour

Free day in Buenos Aires? You’ve got options, and they’re good ones. You could swap the city for the pampas on an Optional Experience filled with gaucho culture, folk music, dancing and a barbecue lunch, or take things down a notch with an Optional Experience through the Tigre Delta. Feeling hungry? Another Optional Experience eats its way through San Telmo with bars, market stops and local favorites, while the Argentinean Culinary Experience gets you making empanadas before sitting down to a local steak. Not bad for a day with no plans.

Two countries, one New Wonder of the World and countless memories later, your adventure wraps up today. Say goodbye to new friends as you head to the airport. Or, if you’re not ready to leave Buenos Aires’ charm behind, why not extend your trip and stay a bit longer?