Compare Best of Brazil by Great Value Vacations vs Argentina, Uruguay & Brazil Discovery (Classic) by Insight Vacations
Compare details and see what other travelers are saying.
| Trip |
4 | Great
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5 | Excellent
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| Duration | 8 days | 11 days |
| Price From | $ 3,602 | $ 6,710 |
| Price Per Day | $ 450 | $ 610 |
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| Trip Style | Self-guided tour | Group tour |
| Lodging Level | Standard | Premium |
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| Flights & Transport | Airfare included | Airfare included |
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| Meals Included | N/A |
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| Description |
So you've always wanted to go to lively Rio, you've read all about the awe-inspiring Iguassu Falls, and you've dreamed of strolling the colorful streets of Salvador for years. Well, it's time to stop fantasizing! On this amazing vacation package, you'll watch your dreams come true right before your eyes. Rio, Iguassu, and Salvador all in one trip? You bet. Start your journey in the unique city of Rio de Janeiro, jam packed with vibrant culture, mountainous landscapes, and picture-perfect waterfront neighborhoods. Enjoy included tours up to Corcovado, Christ the Redeemer, and Sugar Loaf Mountain! Take a train ride through Tijuca Forest, then explore the city's bustling, artsy downtown. You'll wave goodbye to Rio and say hello to the majestic natural wonder that is Iguassu Falls. Walk along cascading paths, take tons of photos, and learn all about this amazing sight on a tour of the area! Witness views so spectacular, you thought they could only exist in movies. Last, but certainly not least, you'll take one last domestic flight to the sunny coastal city of Salvador. Its charming, pastel-colored Historic Center will make you feel like you're walking through a real-life postcard. Stroll down cobblestone streets, admire colonial architecture, and enjoy the eye-popping colors of the city. Head to the bright blue bay and catch a truly unforgettable sunset! Helpful links for travel to Brazil: |
Treat yourself to the finer things in life as you sip Copacabana Beach cocktails in Rio, shop the Tango District antique markets in Buenos Aires and unwind at a spa hotel, overlooking the mists of the Iguazú Falls in Argentina. In the vineyards of Juanicó winery, stop to sample the flavors of Uruguay’s revered wine region. Cross the Rio de la Plata to explore the UNESCO World heritage city of Colonia del Sacramento, before journeying onwards to Iguassu Falls and on to Rio de Janeiro. Follow in the footsteps of your Local Expert for an exclusive guided tour of the Rio Botanical Garden, a precious collection of the world’s oldest trees and exotic orchids. |
Day 1 Welcome to Rio de Janeiro!
Feel the lively spirit in the air as you land in culture and beauty-rich Rio de Janeiro! Upon arrival in the "Marvelous City," enjoy a convenient transfer to your first luxurious hotel. Settle in and relax, then begin exploring the city! Rio is famous for its bright blue water, pristine beaches, and mountainous landscapes. Tonight, you might want to take a walk through Leblon, an upscale, oceanfront neighborhood filled with shops, bars, and restaurants.
Day 2 Rio de Janeiro
Enjoy a pleasant Brazilian buffet breakfast, then get ready for your first full day in Rio. And what a way to start off a vacation... with a full day tour to Corcovado and Sugar Loaf Mountain! Grab your camera and embark on a journey of unbeatable natural beauty, mountainous adventure, and city sightseeing.
Day 3 Rio de Janeiro
Wake up in beautiful Rio and start your day off with an energizing breakfast. After a full day of excitement yesterday, you'll enjoy a relaxing day at leisure today. Soak up some sun on Rio's world-famous beaches, Ipanema and Copacabana! And remember, the fun doesn't stop when you step off the sand. Explore the areas, treat yourself to a delicious dinner, and experience some of the most vibrant nightlife in the world. If you have enough energy, you might want to make your way back up to Christ the Redeemer or Sugar Loaf Mountain to catch a once-in-a-lifetime sunset. When in Rio...
Day 4 Rio de Janeiro - Iguassu Falls
Refuel with some breakfast, grab your bags and meet your transfer - you're off to Iguassu Falls today! After a quick flight, you'll be brought to your next accommodation near the Brazilian side of Iguassu Falls. Located close to the point where the Iguassu River empties its waters into the Parana River, these falls are among the largest in the world! The city nestled right beside the falls, Foz do Iguassu, is a bustling city filled with tourists and locals, alike. Treat yourself to dinner, do some souvenir shopping, and explore this stunning, culture-rich area!
Day 5 Iguassu Falls
After breakfast, grab your camera and get ready for an amazing tour of Iguassu Falls! Take tons of photos, gawk at magnificent views, and walk along picturesque nature paths. Spend the evening relaxing at your hotel or strolling around the city.
Day 6 Iguassu Falls - Salvador
Wave goodbye to the majestic Falls and say hello to Salvador! Enjoy breakfast, then meet your transfer and make your way to the airport for your final domestic flight. Arrive in sunny Salvador, otherwise known as the "Land of Happiness" and check-in to your hotel. Every day feels like a celebration in Salvador, with its bright, colorful buildings and its fun, easygoing lifestyle. This fascinating city is a storybook-like world of magical beauty, cultural traditions, and warm hospitality - oh, and it's surrounded by beaches. What could be better?
Day 7 Salvador
Ahhh, wake up in stunning Salvador and enjoy a delightful breakfast. Then, spend the day your way! Feel like relaxing by the water? Head to the coast and treat yourself to a sunny seaside lunch. In the mood to walk around the Historic Center? Visit the UNESCO-recognized site of Pelourinho, a bustling hub lined with wonderfully-restored pastel-colored buildings, restaurants, shops, and bars. Whatever you decide to do, be sure to catch the sunset over Baia de Todos Santos! For the best view, pop into the Elevador Lacera, a gorgeous old art deco elevator that offers beyond perfect views. Make sure your camera's charged!
Day 8 Depart Brazil
Squeeze all your souvenirs into your bag and enjoy a comfortable transfer to the airport. Board your plane and spend your relaxing flight home dreaming about your next adventure.
Day 1: Arrive in Buenos Aires
Nicknamed the “Paris of South America”, this glamorous destination really does live up to its European counterpart. Neoclassical, Art Nouveau and Art Deco buildings line its streets, attracting equally as sophisticated travelers. On arrival, you’ll be transferred to your luxury hotel. Relax and unwind before meeting your Travel Director and fellow guests for a three-course Welcome Dinner with wine.
Alvear Icon Hotel, Buenos Aires
Dinner with Wine
Day 2: Explore Buenos Aires Relaxed Start
Start your first full day in Buenos Aires with a city tour. Take in the capital's key sights including the Metropolitan Cathedral, Casa Rosada and Plaza de Mayo.Witness a private demonstration and performance by professional tango dancers at an authentic “conventillo” in El Viejo Almacén, which is one of the oldest Tango venues in Buenos Aires. Here you will be introduced to this passionate dance and upbeat music. Later, enjoy an authentic Asado Porteno (Argentinian barbecue) with a local chef.
Alvear Icon Hotel, Buenos Aires
Breakfast, Dinner with Wine
Day 3: On to Colonia del Sacramento
Travel by ferry across the Rio de la Plata, otherwise known as the River Plate. Visit the city of Colonia del Sacramento with its cobbled streets and historic buildings. Now a UNESCO World heritage site, this colorful destination was originally founded by the Portuguese in the 1600s. Enjoy lunch with wine at a local olive farm, Viñedos y Olivares del Quintón, known for their characteristic terrain and thermal air, the perfect setting for vineyards and olive groves. In the afternoon, take a guided walking tour of the protected old city and its 16th century buildings before arriving in Uruguay in the capital of Montevideo.
Hotel Costanero MGallery, Montevideo.
Breakfast, Lunch with Wine
Day 4: Visit Juanicó Winery
Explore Montevideo on a city tour. Just north of Montevideo sits Juanicó winery, one of the leading wineries of the country. You’ll be welcomed with a tour of the vineyards, state-of-the-art facilities, and the wine cellar built in 1840. After learning how past and present blend to create wines that receive gold medals and international recognition, sit down to a leisurely lunch. A sip of one of their Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Gewurztraminer, Riesling and Sauvignon Gris or flagship full-bodied red will leave you with a new appreciation for Uruguayan wines.
Hotel Costanero MGallery, Montevideo.
Breakfast, Lunch with Wine
Day 5: Return to Buenos Aires Relaxed Start
Enjoy a leisurely morning before your transfer to the ferry escorting you back to Buenos Aires. The afternoon is yours to customize with Insight Choice. Take in the city from the water on a boat tour displaying the city’s fascinating neighborhoods. Or, tour the bustling San Telmo Market’s many stalls of local goods from fragrant coffee and spices to rare antiques. With another evening in this vibrant city, seize the opportunity to watch a tango performance or ask your Travel Director where to enjoy a relaxing dinner of the region's famous steak.
Alvear Icon Hotel, Buenos Aires
Breakfast
Day 6: Buenos Aires to Iguassu Falls
With over 270 waterfalls, rare flora and fauna, and lush rainforest, your destination really is as impressive as the photos suggest. Meaning “big water” in the Guaraní language, the stunning falls land in both Argentina and Brazil. Stay on the Argentinian side of the National Park for two nights, at the luxurious Gran Melia hotel. With two outdoor pools, a modern spa and a stylish interior, you’ll be able to relax and rejuvenate in a fitting manner. Have a night at leisure as you take in your beautiful surroundings.
Gran Melia, Iguassu Falls
Breakfast
Day 7: Sightseeing at Iguassu Falls
Take in breathtaking views of the jungle and falls, before heading out with a Local Expert to explore the Argentinian side of the park. Take an optional Gran Aventura boat ride to Devil’s Throat, the largest and perhaps most famous water cascade in the park. This u-shaped waterfall contains 14 falls in total and is more than 262 feet (80 meters) high. Your dinner will be served at The Argentine Experience where you'll learn how to prepare your own wine based cocktail, and your own empanadas. Afterwords, savor an Argentinian picada and sample mate and Alfajores, Argentina's famous national sweet. To enhance your dining experience, your dishes will be complemented by Argentinian wines.
Gran Melia, Iguassu Falls
Breakfast, Dinner with Wine
Day 8: The Brazilian Side
Wake up inside the National Park and enjoy breakfast with a tropical view at your hotel. Today you’ll take a guided visit to the Brazilian side of Iguassu Falls. While the walk around the Brazilian side is shorter, it's no less impressive. The falls are further away which allows you take in all of them at once with a unique vantage point. Your Local Expert will show you panoramic views of San Martin Island, before you head to the airport for your flight to Rio. Move on to the capital of samba and the home of iconic Copacabana Beach, famous for its stretch of golden sand. Your luxury hotel is situated on the beach itself. The rest of the evening will be at leisure. Either relax at your hotel or head out and explore the area’s local nightlife.
Fairmont Rio de Janeiro Copacabana
Breakfast
Day 9: Explore Rio de Janeiro
This morning, visit a local produce market and sample some of Brazil's unique fruits. Afterwards, join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience with a local botanist for a special guided visit to Rio’s Botanical Garden, a preservation site for a rare collection of bromeliads and orchids, as well as old trees and exotic plants. Made up of museums, research and cultural centers, the park showcases over 6500 different species of plants, both local and foreign. Enjoy a Highlight Lunch with a classic caipirinha cocktail at Casa Camolese, a contemporary restaurant situated next to the garden. Conclude your day with a cable car ride up to Sugarloaf Mountain.
Fairmont Rio de Janeiro Copacabana
Breakfast, Lunch
Day 10: Leisure time in Rio de Janeiro
In the morning, board a cogwheel train through the Tijuca Forest to the top of Corcovado Mountain, home to the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue. After descent, enjoy a scenic drive past some of the most beautiful beaches in Rio before arriving at your hotel for an afternoon at leisure. Spend the afternoon soaking up the sun on Copacabana Beach or ask your Travel Director for the best spot to grab a Brazilian coffee. In the evening, commemorate your holiday as you join your new friends for a memorable Celebration Dinner at a traditional Brazilian churrascaria, offering views of the Sugarloaf Mountain.
Fairmont Rio de Janeiro Copacabana
Breakfast, Dinner with Wine
Day 11: Depart Rio de Janeiro
It’s time to say goodbye to your fellow travelers as your trip comes to an end. Take our organised transfer to Rio de Janeiro-Antonio Carlos Jobim International Airport.
Breakfast
