2017 - APT South America

84 Travel to the top of Corcovado mountain and marvel at the views over Rio de Janeiro Day 16. Coquimbo. Sailing into Coquimbo, your eyes will be drawn to a 93-metre high cross atop the mountain on which the city is sprawled upon. If you wish to venture further afield, there are options aplenty on one of the excursions at hand today (own expense). BLD Day 17. Valparaíso. Aboard your ship, you'll be able to catch your first glimpse of Valparaíso, regarded as one of the most beautiful destinations in central Chile. On disembarking, you'll get a feel for why this picturesque place has been named 'paradise valley'. The surrounding hills that form a natural amphitheatre around the port city are dotted with colourful houses as trains meander along the hidden tracks that weave throughout the countryside. If you're inclined, choose one of the optional excursions today. Perhaps visit the home of former Chilean literature Nobel Prize winner Pablo Neruda for a cocktail and some empanadas, then enjoy views of Valparaíso's colourful buildings as you ride the funicular. Or, visit a boutique winery in the stunning Casablanca Valley for a tour and a wine tasting followed by a trip to Viña del Mar (both own expense). BLD Day 18. Valparaíso, Disembark Ship, Santiago. Disembark your ship and continue to Santiago. The Chilean capital boasts one of the world's most incredible settings, situated in the Santiago basin and spectacularly flanked by the snow-capped Andes mountain range. This afternoon, explore the city's iconic landmarks on a guided tour. Two Night Stay: The Singular Santiago. BD Day 19. Santiago. After breakfast, enjoy the entire day to immerse yourself in the sights of Santiago at your own pace. B Day 20. Santiago, Buenos Aires (Argentina). 20 Day (ISPOS20) guests depart the tour. Those continuing on will fly to Buenos Aires. At your hotel, discover Argentina's national dance during a tango lesson, before a selection of tapas. Three Night Stay: Buenos Aires, Alvear Palace Hotel. B Day 21. Buenos Aires, Freedom of Choice. Visit the Avenida de Mayo, the Plaza de Mayo and Government House. Next, enjoy coffee and a snack at the iconic Café Tortoni, a literati coffeehouse established in 1858. Later, explore the barrio of La Boca and it's charming pedestrian street, the Caminito. Tonight, choose where to dine. BD Day 22. Buenos Aires, Freedom of Choice. Perhaps travel to the island town of Tigre and cruise over the waterways of the Paraná Delta. Or, explore the Parisian influence on Buenos Aires during a city walking tour. Alternatively, head to Teatro Colón. B Day 23. Buenos Aires, Iguassu Falls, Freedom of Choice. Board your flight to Iguassu Falls, on the border of Argentina and Brazil. Perhaps take a boat ride beneath the thundering cascades. Or, embark on an awe-inspiring helicopter ride over the falls. This evening, dine at the Ipê Grill within your hotel. Two Night Stay: Iguassu Falls, Hotel das Cataratas. BD Day 24. Iguassu Falls. Spend time in World Heritage-listed Iguassu National Park on the Argentinian side of the falls. Ride the Rainforest Ecological Train to a series of walkways and viewing points. Return to your hotel, located just a stroll from the falls. B Day 25. Iguassu Falls, Rio de Janeiro (Brazil). Fly to one of the world's most spectacular cities, Rio de Janeiro. On arrival, be transferred to your hotel on Copacabana Beach. Three Night Stay: Rio de Janeiro, Copacabana Palace. B Day 26. Rio de Janeiro. Today is sure to be a highlight as you make your way to Corcovado, the mountain famous for its iconic statue of Christ the Redeemer. At sunset, ride a cable car to the peak of Sugarloaf Mountain, stopping mid-way to enjoy a caipirinha while you admire the sweeping view. Return to ground level and spend the evening dining on a delicious Brazilian BBQ. BD Day 27. Rio de Janeiro, Freedom of Choice. This morning, you may wish to embark on a tour through local favelas – the Brazilian term for shanty town. Alternatively, set out on a colonial tour of the city. Or, perhaps enjoy a Jeep tour taking you deep into Tijuca Forest past waterfalls and tropical fruit trees. Later, the evening is yours to spend at leisure, providing a fantastic opportunity to experience Rio de Janeiro's vibrant nightlife. B Day 28. Depart Rio de Janeiro. Your journey comes to an end as you transfer to the airport for your onward flight. B www.aptouring.com.au

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