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Multi-Country Landmark Tours Holidays

Rio, Iguassu Falls, Buenos Aires, Chile and sail/fly cruise to Antarctica

21 Night Itinerary from  £14,256

Gentoo Tour

Experience Rio, the Iguassu Falls and Buenos Aires and cruise to the Antarctic Peninsula on the state-of-the-art Sylvia Earle. Save time at sea and fly to Punta Arenas and onto Santiago in Chile.

Select your preferred departure date

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Tour Route

Travel Highlights

  • Departing from the UK: 1 February 2024 
  • Explore the contrasting lifestyle in cosmopolitan Rio de Janeiro and Buenos Aires
  • Observe awe-inspiring Iguassu Falls from the Brazilian and Argentine sides
  • Sail to the Antarctic Peninsula on the state-of-the-art Sylvia Earle   
  • Explore the icy landscapes, with sheltered bays, huge glaciers and icebergs
  • Encounter penguins, sea birds, seals and whales on daily excursions ashore 
  • Avoid days at sea and fly back to Punta Arenas, Chile
  • Explore Chile's capital Santiago and famous wine growing districts
  • Visit historic Valparaiso, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

This itinerary can be tailored to your preferences by our specialist advisors, who can provide a guaranteed price based on your choice of route, duration, flights, hotels, transport and excursions.

Tour Itinerary

Urca - Yacht Club - Sugar Loaf Cablecars

Rio de Janeiro - 4 Nights

Day 1 - Depart the UK and fly to Rio de Janeiro

Day 2 - Guided tour of Rio

Day 3 - At leisure in Rio

Day 4 - At leisure in Rio

  • Full Description
  • Accommodation

Friday, 02 June 2023

Fly to Rio

Depart the UK on a daytime flight to Rio, arriving later the same day. On arrival, you will be met by our guide and transferred to your chosen hotel for a 4-night stay on a bed and breakfast basis. You guide will also give you a short orientation of your local area.


Saturday, 03 June 2023

Full day guided tour of Rio

This morning, your guide will meet you after breakfast and take you on an in depth tour of this most exhilarating city.


Sunday, 04 June 2023

At leisure in Rio

Today you are free to enjoy Rio at your own pace. Perhaps head for Ipanema beach or a coffee in cosmopolitan Leblon. Our guide can also arrange optional excursions, depending on your interests.


Monday, 05 June 2023

At leisure in Rio

Your final day in Rio to enjoy as you please.

Hotel Arpoador

Rio de Janeiro - Tourist Hotel

Arpoador is a modern hotel with a relaxed, informal style symbolised by the casual designer uniforms worn by the staff. Ideally located between Ipanema and Copacabana, one side faces a busy street with large trees and the other side faces a charming pedestrian waterfront promenade along Ipanema beach and the sea. The hotel's restaurant room has a very pleasant veranda outside, with 10 tables, where you can sit, enjoy the food, the fresh air, sea breeze and ocean view; and literally step straight onto the promenade and onto the beach. Beware that the sea here is the open ocean with strong waves and currents. The restaurant serves breakfast and an excellent simple and creative menu of modern vegetarian dishes.

The rooms are modern, comfortable, functional and decorated in the contemporary minimalist style, with the standard rooms only 18 square meters; but with so much to do in Rio de Janeiro and nearby, you are unlikely to spend much time in the room.

Right at the top of the building, there is a small pool, bar, sitting area and magnificent view of the whole of Ipanema and Leblon with the city and the tall granite peak of Morro dos Dois Irmaos in the background. Within walking distance you have numerous bars, restaurants, cafes, shops and the famous beachfront walks along Copacabana, Ipanema and Leblon beaches. This area is the perfect location for all the best attractions that Rio de Janeiro has to offer.

Accommodation includes room and breakfast.

 

 

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Arena Copacabana

Rio de Janeiro - First Hotel

The Arena Copacabana is in a wonderful location overlooking Copacabana Beach.

The decoration is light and modern, with 135 comfortable and spacious rooms, fully equipped with WiFi, air-conditioning and sound proof windows.

The top floor terrace, pool and sauna have a panoramic view of the beach and the ground floor restaurant serves international cuisine.

1776 Arena Copacabana

Copacabana Palace

Rio de Janeiro - Deluxe Hotel

This grand, European-style hotel is a listed building with 226 rooms, a large swimming pool, fitness centre and sauna, rooftop tennis court, shops, business centre, piano bar and three of Rio's finest elegant restaurants.

All the rooms are large and spacious, decorated in a classic elegant style, fully air-conditioned with cable TV, electronic safe deposit box, voice mail, 24-hour room service, mini bar and complimentary WiFi. The separate Tower Annexe building is set back from the street and overlooking the pool, where all the rooms are suites with balconies.

1764 Copacabana Palace
Iguassu waterfalls at close range

Iguassu Falls - 2 Nights

Day 5 - Fly to the Iguassu Falls

Day 6 - The Iguazu Falls from the Argentine side

  • Full Description
  • Accommodation

Tuesday, 06 June 2023

Fly to the Iguassu Falls

Transfer to the airport for a domestic flight to Foz do Iguassu, where you will be met by our guide and transferred to your chosen hotel for a 1-night stay. The rest of the day is free for you to explore the awe-inspiring Iguassu Falls from the Brazilian side.


Wednesday, 07 June 2023

Iguazu Falls from the Argentine side

This morning, our transport will take you across the border and into Argentina, where you check-into your chosen hotel for a 1-night stay. The Argentine side of the falls is very different to the Brazilian side, most notably the chance to walk along scenic walkways to observe the dramatic and invigorating Devil's Throat. 

La Cantera

Iguazu Falls - Tourist Lodge

Located in the forest outside of the town of Puerto Iguazu, and 15 minutes from the falls, La Cantera Jungle Lodge has rooms distrubited in a series of bungalows connected by raised walkways. The rooms are spacious  and well appointed, with a balcony looking out into the forest as well as private facilities and air conditioning. The hotel has a restaurant and a swimming pool with a terrace area for relaxing.

1972 La Cantera

Gran Melia Iguazu

Iguazu Falls - First Hotel

Set within the Iguazu National Park the Gran Melia Iguazu Hotel is a three-story hotel with spectaculars views of the magnificent Iguazu Falls. It is the only hotel with rooms that look directly over the Falls.

The superb public facilities include an infinity pool with views of the Iguazu Falls, the Yasi Spa and health club, 4 bars (the rooftop bar is a great place to enjoy a drink and the fantastic views) and the Merkado Restaurant serving international and Argentine specialities. 

The hotel has 177 guest rooms split by deluxe, red level and suite categories. All rooms are air-conditioned and extremely well-appointed with private bathroom, king size beds, safe, mini bar, TV and luxury in room amenities. 

From the hotel, you can easily walk to the nearby trails to observe the Falls, ideal for those who want to beat the tourist crowds and have more flexibility. The hotel also offers tango lessons, yoga classes and photographic tours.

The rates are on a room and breakfast basis.

1964 Sheraton Iguazu

Hotel das Cataratas

Iguassu Falls - Luxury Hotel

The iconic Hotel das Cataratas is the only hotel located overlooking the Iguassu Falls within the National Park. Restored to its original 1950s charm, the hotel’s hacienda-style exterior is matched by its warm, inviting interior design. The Hotel das Cataratas is a very special place to stay.

Public areas include a large swimming pool, the Ipe Grill, Itaipa Restarurant, Bar Taroba, shops, fitness centre, tennis courts and a beautiful spa.

The elegantly furnished rooms are either junior suites (35m2) or Cataratas suites (65m2). All are air-conditioned, with private bathroom, living room, minibar, TV and luxury toiletries.

The hotel has extensive and beautiful gardens, from where you can walk directly to the falls at your leisure. There are several activities available including helicopter rides over the falls, guided walks in the early morning, during the day or at night and birdwatching tours. For the more adventurous, white water rafting is great fun.

The rates are on a room and breakfast basis.

 

Enjoy dinner overlooking for Falls
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Buenos Aires - 3 Nights

Day 7 - Fly to Buenos Aires

Day 8 - Guided tour of Buenos Aires

Day 9 - At leisure in Buenos Aires

  • Full Description
  • Accommodation

Thursday, 08 June 2023

Fly to Buenos Aires

Transfer to the airport and fly to Buenos Aires. Our guide will transfer you to your chosen hotel for a 3-night stay on a bed and breakfast basis. The rest of the day is at leisure.  


Friday, 09 June 2023

Buenos Aires

This morning enjoy a guided tour of Buenos Aires, named the “Paris of South America” for its turn of the century French architecture. We visit La Boca, with its brightly coloured houses, the cathedral, the Recoleta area and the Presidential Palace, with its famous balcony where successive leaders have made appearances. Optional dinner and tango show in the evening. 


Saturday, 10 June 2023

At leisure in Buenos Aires

Today you are free to explore Buenos Aires on your own, or choose from a number of optional tours and excursions: tango classes; traditional bars and cafes of San Telmo; Colon Theatre; Evita & Peronism tour; art in Buenos Aires; Argentine Dinner experience; Buenos Aires' Jewish heritage; hidden Buenos Aires; underground tunnels of Buenos Aires; the life and times of Diego Maradona; estancias of the Pampa; Delta del Tigre day trip; day trip across the Rio Plata to Uruguay.

Loi Suites Recoleta

Buenos Aires - First Hotel

The Loi Suites Hotel is located in the Recoleta area of Buenos Aires, close to the best shops and the trendy cafes overlooking the park. The hotel has 112 fully equipped rooms and suites combining style comfort and technology, and all decorated with tasteful beiges and creams creating a relaxing home away from home. There is a restaurant, bar, indoor heated swimming pool and health club.

1943 Loi Suites Recoleta

Alvear Palace Hotel

Buenos Aires - Deluxe Hotel

In 1932 a classic was born in Buenos AIres, the Alvear Palace Hotel, a genuine palace right in the heart of the city. Constructed of materials imported from France, the hotel became one of the most characteristic buildings in town, strictly keeping the Louis XVI style.

Situated in the elegant quarter of Recoleta, close to the Park, lined with excellent restaurants and street cafes. Rooms are spacious and service and decor are first class

Recently the hotel has been completely refurbished, sticking to the original glory.

 

1939 Alvear Palace Hotel
Discover the White Continent

Antarctica Peninsula Cruise and fly back - 7 Nights

Day 10 - Fly to Ushuaia

Day 11 - Ushuaia & Embark the Sylvia Earle 

Day 12 - Crossing Drake Passage

Day 13 - Crossing Drake Passage

Day 14 - Antarctic Peninsula & South Shetland Islands

Day 15 - Antarctic Peninsula & South Shetland Islands 

Day 16 - Antarctic Peninsula & South Shetland Islands 

  • Full Description
  • Accommodation

Sunday, 11 June 2023

Ushuaia

Transfer to the airport and fly to Ushuaia. Transfer to your hotel for a 1-night stay on a bed and breakfast basis. The rest of the day is at leisure for you to explore the world's most southerly city.


Monday, 12 June 2023

Ushuaia & Embarkation

Morning at leisure to explore Ushuaia. Afternoon transfer to the port and embark the Sylvia Earle for your expedition cruise to Antarctica. We set sail south along the Beagle Channel.

 


Tuesday, 13 June 2023

Crossing Drake Passage

We sail past Tierra del Fuego Islands to cross Drake Passage. Albatrosses are common here and the ship’s fins help with stability in the event of rough seas. Enjoy briefings and lectures as expert naturalist guides prepare you for your visit to Antarctica.


Wednesday, 14 June 2023

Crossing Drake Passage

We continue sailing southbound. Enjoy further lectures and briefings from the expert guides in preparation for our arrival in the White Continent.


Thursday, 15 June 2023

Antarctic Peninsula & South Shetland Islands

It is almost impossible to describe the feeling of arriving in Antarctica. Spotting your first iceberg and taking a deep breath of some of the most fresh, crisp air on earth is an experience that will stay with you forever.  

Once you arrive, the western side of the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands are ours to explore, and we have a host of choices available to us. Because we are so far south, we will experience approximately 18-24 hours of daylight and the days can be as busy as you wish.  

The experienced expedition team, who have made countless journeys to this area, will use their expertise to design your voyage from day to day, choosing the best options based on the prevailing weather, ice conditions and wildlife opportunities.  


Friday, 16 June 2023

Antarctic Peninsula & South Shetland Islands

While ashore, explore pebbly beaches or perhaps up snow-covered ridgelines to vantage points with mountains towering overhead and ice-speckled oceans below. If you have chosen an optional activity, you will have the option to do participate in the activity whenever conditions allow, and of course keen polar plungers will have the chance to fully immerse themselves in polar waters - conditions permitting!


Saturday, 17 June 2023

Antarctic Peninsula & South Shetland Islands

In addition to Zodiac cruises and shore excursions, you might cruise through some of the narrow, dramatic straits separating offshore islands from the mainland, or linger in scenic bays to watch whales travelling or feeding. This is a great time to enjoy the observation lounge or make your way to the bridge (open at the captain’s discretion) for uninterrupted views of Antarctica in all its splendour. Listen out for the creak and deep rumble of glaciers as they carve. Take a quiet moment to experience the wonder of the pristine paradise of the splendid white continent. 

Sylvia Earle

Antarctica Cruises - Luxury Expedition Ship

Launched in December 2022, The Sylvia Earle is a floating ambassador for the conservation of the planet. Paying tribute to Dr. Sylvia Earle and six pioneering conservationists with public decks honouring their contributions and shining a light on their important conservation causes.

Certified 100% climate neutral, with a fully equipped Citizen Science Centre, expert lectures and participate in Citizen Science Programmes to enrich your knowledge and connection to the places the ship travels to.

The Sylvia Earle is a comfortable base camp for adventure. With a maximum of 132 travellers, their aim is to get you off ship experiencing the natural environment as much as possible; smaller groups also mean we can tread lightly, making a positive impact to the environment.

Each of the vessel’s public decks bear the names of six pioneering female conservationists – Dr. Carden Wallace AM, Joanna Ruxton, Sharon Kwok, Bernadette Demientieff, Dr. Asha de Vos and Hanli Prinsloo – along with a deck dedicated to Dr. Earle herself. The scientists are inspiring leaders in their fields, and as part of the deck theming, will educate you on the impressive and important conservation work they continue to do.

The ground-breaking Silvia Earle
Punta Arenas Ga924a333a 1920

Fly to Punta Arenas - 1 Night

Day 17 - Fly to Punta Arenas 

 

  • Full Description

Sunday, 18 June 2023

Fly to Punta Arenas

As we approach Frei Base on King George Island, it is time to farewell Antarctica and our amazing adventure before boarding our flight (approximately one hour and forty-five minutes) to Punta Arenas, Chile. There is time for reflection and discussion about what we have seen and experienced. At Punta Arenas airport, you will be transferred to your hotel for an overnight stay on a bed and breakfast basis. 

Cerro San Cristobal

Santaigo and Valparaiso - 4 Nights

Day 18 - Fly to Santiago de Chile

Day 19 - Guided tour of Santiago 

Day 20 - Valparaiso

Day 21 - Visit Chile's wine district  

  • Full Description
  • Accommodation

Monday, 19 June 2023

Fly to Santiago de Chile

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for flight to Santiago de Chile. On arrival, our guide will transfer you to your chosen hotel for a 4-night stay on a bed and breakfast basis. The rest of the day is at leisure.


Tuesday, 20 June 2023

Guided tour of Santiago

This morning we explore the city, set in a wide plain with the Andes stretching into the distance. Santiago offers bohemian areas, large craft markets, grand central squares and the Cerro San Cristóbal, a hill which can be reached by funicular railway, for superb panoramic views of the city.

 


Wednesday, 21 June 2023

Guided visit to Valparaiso

Today we travel to Valparaiso and enjoy a guided tour of this historic UNESCO credited city, including the colourful hillside neighbourhoods, art galleries and cafes. We explore the colourful clifftop homes, the street art scene and the port area of Valparaiso - once one of the leading trading ports in South America. 


Thursday, 22 June 2023

Visit Chile's wine district

Our final day in Chile is spent exploring the Maipo Valley and its famous vineyards. Here, we stop for a tour of two vineyards and enjoy a local lunch with wine tastings.

Plaza San Francisco Hotel

Santiago de Chile - Deluxe Hotel

The Hotel Plaza San Francisco is just a short distance from the heart of Santiago. There are 160 rooms with air conditioning, telephone, cable TV, safety box and mini bar. The hotel also features a bar, restaurant, swimming pool, sauna, gymnasium and business centre. Accommodation includes room and breakfast.

2015 Plaza San Francisco Hotel

Su Merced

Santiago de Chile - Tourist Boutique

Su Merced is renovated townhouse, small boutique hotel with only 9 rooms. Its location in the Lastarria area opposite the park in the heart of Santiago making it ideal for visiting the artistic, bohemian area of Bellavista, the main square Plaza de Armas, Presidential Palace and downtown. The rooms are comfortable and modern though rather small, and and the hotel has a restaurant and bar on which doubles as the reception.

2016 Su Merced
 Vineyards of Queretaro

Fly back to the UK - 0 Nights

Day 22 - Overnight flight to UK

Day 23 - Arrive in the UK

 

  • Full Description

Friday, 23 June 2023

Overnight return flight to UK

Transfer to the airport for your overnight flight back to the UK.


Saturday, 24 June 2023

Arrive in the UK

Arrive in the UK in the morning. 

Price Guidelines

Season High Season
Travel Dates 1 February 2024 and 25 January 2025
Room Arrangement First Deluxe
Multiple Travellers - Twin Room £14,256 £16,115

Prices are a guideline and per person. Please request a quote for Special Events, Christmas, New Year's Eve & Easter.


What's Included

  • 23 Days / 21 Nights
  • International flights (2 overnights)
  • Internal flights
  • Flight from Antarctica to Punta Arenas
  • All transport as described
  • Accommodation as shown on the itinerary
  • 7-night Antarctica Expedition Cruise aboard Silvia Earle, all meals & excursions
  • Beer, house wine and soft drinks with dinner on the cruise 
  • Captain's welcome and farewell reception
  • Parka Jacket and rubber boots for shore landings
  • All port fees on the cruise
  • Excursions listed, all with expert, English-speaking guides

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READY - 27 May 2023

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