South America Touring, Amazon River Cruise, Brazil, Chile, Galapagos Islands, Peru, Antarctic Cruising
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34 Embrace the intoxicating human spirit of South America 21 Day Best of South America Small Group Journey from Santiago to Lima Day 1. Arrive Santiago (Chile). Welcome to Santiago for the start of your enthralling 21-day adventure. The Chilean capital boasts one of the world's most incredible settings, situated in the Santiago basin and spectacularly flanked to the east by the snow-capped Andes mountain range. This afternoon, explore the city's iconic landmarks on a guided tour, before enjoying a Welcome Reception tonight. Two Night Stay: The Singular Santiago. Day 2. Santiago, Freedom of Choice. Today, you have a choice of two sightseeing options, both of which include lunch. You might like to travel to the picturesque seaside city of Valparaíso. Here, embark on a tour of the World Heritage-listed Historic Quarter and, on a funicular ride, treasure views of the colourful buildings below. Alternatively, learn about the history of Chilean wine during a tour and tasting of aged wines amid the beautiful setting of Santa Rita winery. BL Day 3. Santiago, Buenos Aires (Argentina). Fly to the lively Argentinian capital. Be met at the airport and transfer to your hotel in the fashionable Recoleta barrio (district) of Buenos Aires. At your hotel, discover Argentina's national dance during a tango lesson with the gifted dancers of Rojo Tango, before indulging in a delicious selection of tapas. Three Night Stay: Buenos Aires, Alvear Palace Hotel. B Day 4. Buenos Aires, Freedom of Choice. Today, a guided tour of Buenos Aires begins with a visit to the Avenida de Mayo, an avenue connecting with the city's main downtown square, the Plaza de Mayo. You'll also see Government House, made famous when Evita Perón stood on the balcony – a key moment in Argentinian political history. Next, enjoy coffee and a snack at the iconic Café Tortoni, a literati coffeehouse established in 1858. Later, explore the barrio of La Boca, with its colourful houses and charming pedestrian street, the Caminito. Continue on past the parks and tree-lined streets of Palermo and see La Recoleta Cemetery. Tonight, choose where to dine from one of three venues. Perhaps savour a meal at one of the city's sought-after closed door restaurants, tucked away in a chef's home. You might prefer a relaxed evening at El Mirasol de la Recova, and enjoy a traditional Argentinian BBQ. Alternatively, head to the Philippe Starck-designed cabaret, Rojo Tango, for dinner and the most exclusive tango show in the city. BD Day 5. Buenos Aires, Freedom of Choice. Today, perhaps head to the island town of Tigre where you can enjoy a cruise over the waterways of the Paraná Delta. You may like to explore the Parisian influence on Buenos Aires during a walking tour, or perhaps visit Teatro Colón to absorb the ambience and grandeur of one of the finest opera houses in the world. Afterwards, enjoy some free time to take in this proud city. B Day 6. Buenos Aires, Rio de Janeiro (Brazil). Fly to one of the world's most spectacular cities, Rio de Janeiro. Lapped by a deep blue ocean, flanked by mountains and rainforest, and drenched with white-sand beaches, life here pulsates to an intoxicating rhythm. Three Night Stay: Rio de Janeiro, Copacabana Palace. B Freedom of Choice TM – Sightseeing Freedom of Choice TM – Dining Signature Experiences www.aptouring.com.au