South America

South America

Dates: 28^th August-11^th September

Visiting:

Rio de Janeiro (Brazil), Corcovado Mountain, Sugarloaf Mountain, Foz do Igassu, Montevideo (Uruguay), Punta del Este, Colonia de Sacramento, Buenos Aires (Argentina), Santa Susana & Tigre

MONDAY, 28TH AUGUST

We meet at Malta International Airport at 10.00 am for our Lufthansa flight to Munich departing at 12.40 pm and arriving at 3.05 pm. Upon arrival, we are transferred to Leonardo Hotel & Residenz (or similar).

TUESDAY, 29TH AUGUST

After breakfast, we make our way to the airport for our next flight to Rio de Janeiro, departing at 12.15 pm and we arrive in Brazil at 7.00 pm. Upon arrival, we proceed to Mirador Rio Hotel (or similar) and rest.

WEDNESDAY, 30TH AUGUST

Breakfast and we start off our trip in Brazil driving to the Cosme Velho district where we will take a cogwheel train through the Tijuca forest up the Corcovado Mountain. Along the way, we appreciate the lush rainforest and the views. When we arrive at the top, we can admire the well-known Christ the Redeemer statue, one of the world’s wonders. From one of Rio de Janeiro’s most privileged belvederes, appreciate the panoramic views of the city and its surroundings. We make our way back down and end our tour with stops at the famous, white sandy beaches of Copacabana, Ipanema, and Leblon and return to the hotel. (If the cogwheel train is unavailable, access Corcovado Mountain in a city-certified van that departs from “Largo do Machado).

THURSDAY, 31ST AUGUST

Enjoy breakfast and we leave our hotel and drive to Rio’s downtown area for a city tour. Walk along the cobblestone streets in old Rio as we appreciate the beautiful architecture. We see the National Library, the Municipal Theatre, the Candelaria Church, and the Cultural Centre. Then, step inside the Metropolitan Cathedral and appreciate its unique architecture and beautiful interior with floor-to-ceiling stained glass windows. Afterward, we drive to the Urca neighbourhood where we will take two glass cable cars and appreciate the beautiful lush views surrounding the iconic Sugar Loaf Mountain. From the top, see the spectacular views of Rio de Janeiro. This evening we will have a barbecue dinner included at a local restaurant. Afterward head to the Leblon Theatre for a show appreciating the different styles of dance, music, and live performances.

FRIDAY, 1ST SEPTEMBER

Today, we leave our hotel in the south zone and drive to the airport for our flight to Iguassu. Foz do Iguassu is a small, busy city located at the confluence of the Iguassu and Paraná Rivers. Near the Brazil and Argentina borders, it is the gateway to the majestic falls, to great tax-free shopping in Paraguay, and to the Itaipu Hydroelectric Dam. Upon arrival, we are transferred to our hotel – Viale Cataratas (or similar) in Brazil. Later, drive to the Iguassu National Park. From here, walk along the paths and appreciate the lush vegetation, butterflies, and cascades. Take the 1.5km path that leads us to an amazing panoramic view of the Devil’s Throat. From here, appreciate the incredible panorama of the other iconic sites in Argentina like Two Sisters and Bozzeti waterfalls, the Superior Circuit, and San Martin Island, where the movie “The Mission” was filmed.

SATURDAY, 2ND SEPTEMBER

This morning, after breakfast, we proceed and drive to the Iguazú National Park in Argentina. From the visitor’s centre, we take the train and go to the Upper Circuit (1.700m) as we appreciate the panoramic views of the falls. Arrive at the Devil’s Throat, the park’s most impressive and immense waterfalls. Measuring 150m long and 80m high; its horseshoe shape creates a stunning waterfall you will remember forever. From here, walk along the Iguazú River canyon for about 3km to the lower circuit (1.500m) as we admire the regional fauna and flora and feel the constant presence of the waterfalls. (For the border crossing from Brazil to Argentina, the passport/visa (if necessary) is needed.) Today’s lunch will be at El Fortin restaurant, located at National Park on the Argentinean side.

SUNDAY, 3RD SEPTEMBER

Breakfast and we are transferred to the Iguassu Airport for our next flight to Montevideo – located on the northeastern bank of the “Río de la Plata”. Discover the Uruguayan capital’s European flair and an appealing mix of architectural influences reflected in its modern skyscrapers and historic buildings. In the centre, appreciate the vibrant street art, old theatres, cosy tango bars, and buzzing nightlife. Stroll along the “Rambla” and the beaches, see the industrial port, the old fort, or travel to the nearby beachside suburbs. Overnight at the Vivaldi Hotel Montevideo (or similar).

MONDAY, 4TH SEPTEMBER

After breakfast, we leave the pier and start our Montevideo City Tour. In the historical centre, appreciate the beautiful colonial architecture that surrounds the “Plaza de Constitución” like the Cathedral, City Hall, and the Solís Theatre. We continue our tour to the “Mercado del Puerto” (port market), an old market hall now filled with grill restaurants. Near the port market, at the “Mercado de los Artesanos” we will have the possibility to purchase handicraft works of local artists made of typical materials such as leather or wool from Uruguay. Enjoy some free time for lunch at the old market hall filled with street musicians and local artists. We enjoy a typical BBQ lunch in the great atmosphere of the port market (1 non-alcoholic drink per person included). Afterwards, drive along the lively “18 de Julio” street until you reach the Legislative Palace, an impressive building that was built at the beginning of the 20th century. We stop at “Mercado Agricola”, a market that was used for selling cattle. At the recently renovated market, discover Uruguay’s culinary customs and stroll along the fruits and vegetables stands or try fresh pastries like “bizcochos” or “torta frita”. Continue our tour around the city and pass by the Batlle and Ordoñez Park, the Obelisk, and the Centenario Soccer Stadium which was built for the first World Cup in 1930. We end our tour at the “Plaza Virgilio” and in the residential area of Carrasco. Appreciate and photograph the stunning views of the city before driving along the coast and its beaches back to the pier.

TUESDAY, 5TH SEPTEMBER

Today, we enjoy breakfast and then drive to Punta del Este, a famous seaside resort town. Along the way, stop at Punta Ballena for sweeping views of the coast. Then, visit Casapueblo (included), the home and atelier of internationally renowned artist, Carlos Paez Vilaró who built it himself in 1958. Located on a rocky cliff overlooking the ocean, it resembles SpanishMoroccan architecture. Walk along the narrow steps and enter the different rooms filled with the artist’s works. Continue your scenic drive through Punta del Este’s most fashionable and impressive neighbourhoods like Cantegril, San Rafael, Parque Golf, and Beverly Hills. Then, stop at the famous monument “La Mano”, a hand sculpture that spurs out of the sand at Brava Beach. We continue our tour to the “La Barra de Maldonado” district, known for its unique hanging bridges, and see the sandy beaches like Playa Brava, San Rafael, and El Emir. Continue towards the downtown area and enjoy some free time to explore the city centre and have lunch (extra) before driving back to Montevideo.

WEDNESDAY, 6TH SEPTEMBER

After breakfast – we leave our hotel in Montevideo and drive to Colonia del Sacramento, a picturesque town located on the eastern bank of the “Río de la Plata”. We start the city tour with a stop at the Colonia welcome sign located on the promenade. Then, make our way to the “Real de San Carlos” area and see the bullring built in 1910 and the “San Benito” chapel. Afterward, drive to Colonia’s historical centre, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Enter through the beautiful city gate and cross the wooden drawbridge that was built in 1745. Travel back in time and admire the picturesque “Calle de los Suspiros”, the abandoned cars, and the original homes that were built over 250 years ago. Stroll along the cobblestone streets to the “Plaza Mayor”. Then, see the lighthouse and the municipal museum as we walk to the most western point to appreciate some beautiful views. Nearby, see Uruguay’s oldest church: the “Santísimo Sacramento” Cathedral. At the end of our tour, enjoy some free time to walk around, visit art galleries and handicraft shops, and enjoy Colonia’s charming atmosphere. Lunch and entrance fees are not included. (For the border crossing, the passport & visas (if necessary) is needed.) We then take the ferry from Colonia to the land of tango – Buenos Aires (approx. 1h). Located on the western shore of the “Río de la Plata”, the cosmopolitan city is filled with modern constructions while preserving old traditions, fascinating art and antiques, colonial architecture, and many charming corners. Upon arrival, we proceed to our hotel – Kenton Palace Buenos Aires (or similar).

THURSDAY, 7TH SEPTEMBER

This morning we drive along “9 de Julio”, the widest avenue in the world, and pass by the Colón Theatre, a stunning opera house. Visit Plaza de Mayo, where the Government House and the first City Hall are located. Here, step inside the Metropolitan Cathedral to appreciate its towering ceilings, striking stained glass, marble columns, and paintings. Afterward, in La Boca district, enjoy a short stroll along “Caminito” and admire the colorful streets filled with souvenir shops and Tango dancers. Pass by the Boca Juniors soccer stadium before driving to the Puerto Madero area, a district made with recycled docks where some of the city’s best restaurants are located. Then, drive by the beautiful parks and green spaces in Palermo as you head to Recoleta, one of the city’s most glamorous spots. End our tour with a visit to the Recoleta cemetery – many national heroes, presidents, well-known writers, scientists, and artists are buried here. Lunch (extra). Later we head to the heart of the San Telmo neighbourhood. Enter one of the most authentic tango houses: “La Ventana”. We will be able to taste the most delightful foods, with the finest wines. Return to the hotel around midnight.

FRIDAY, 8TH SEPTEMBER | After breakfast, we proceed to Santa Susana It is mostly dedicated to agriculture and tourism. When we arrive, enjoy a typical “criolla” lunch (included) as well as a folklore dance show combined with modern melodies. Afterward, enjoy a guided visit to the Spanish-colonial style “casco” and to the authentic museum. End the tour with some typical activities like a regional game known as “Carrera de sortijas”. Here, two teams on horseback try to pass a pin through a small ring as they hang from a wooden arch.

SATURDAY, 9TH SEPTEMBER

During our last excursion, we visit San Isidro. In the colonial and aristocratic area, we see the mansions and houses by the “Río de la Plata”. Continue the drive to Tigre, a popular weekend getaway for many that boast many summer homes as well as yacht and rowing clubs. We take a 1-hour boat excursion (shared) along the Paraná Delta and its channels, rivers, streams, and numerous islands, appreciating the lush vegetation. After our cruise, enjoy lunch (included) at a local restaurant before driving back to Buenos Aires city.

SUNDAY, 10TH &MONDAY & 11TH SEPTEMBER

Enjoy breakfast and today we have a day at leisure. Later in the afternoon, we are transferred to the airport for our flight from Buenos Aires back to Malta via Frankfurt. The flight departs at 4.45 pm, arriving in Germany at 11.00 am (11th September), and this is followed by our next flight departing at 1.40 pm and arriving in Malta at 4.10 pm.

PRICE PER PERSON

Adult in Triple (on request)

Adult in Twin €4169

Adult in Single €4559

The minimum group size is based on 20 passengers

Note:

A Maltese passport with a validity date of 6 months beyond departure dates. Visa: Please ask at the desk for requirements. Vaccines: Kindly check with the National Immunisation Service at Floriana Health centre.

PRICE INCLUDES:

Lufthansa flights to Rio de Janeiro via Munich /from Buenos Aires via Frankfurt Internal flights from Rio de Janeiro to Iguassu / Iguassu to Montevideo via Sao Paulo

1-night accommodation in a 3* hotel in Munich

12 nights’ accommodation in 4* hotels as per program 13 breakfasts, 4 lunches & 2 dinners

All transfers as per the program

All excursions are guided by English speaking guide, as indicated in the itinerary

Entrance fees as per the program

Services of tour leader

All taxes Insolvency fund