BUENOS AIRES, RIO DE JANEIRO, IGUASSU FALLS, SANTIAGO, BARILOCHE & LAKE REGION
There are many South American travel packages you can book, but our comprehensive tour brings you to all the must-see sites of Chile, Argentina and Brazil. From the bustling urban centers of sophisticated Santiago, Buenos Aires (the “Paris of the South”) and Rio de Janeiro—watched over by none other than Christ the Redeemer—to the natural wonders of the Andean Mountains, Chilean Lake District, Bariloche, Argentine Pampas and the Iguassu Falls that span two countries. Memorable experiences on this 16-day escorted tour include traveling along one of National Geographic’s 10 Most Scenic Drives in the World, a visit to the grave of the infamous Evita Peron, an authentic Gaucho Fiesta and a passionate tango performance.
Itinerary at
a Glance
- 2 nights in Santiago
- 1 night in Puerto Varas
- 2 nights in Bariloche
- 4 nights in Buenos Aires
- 2 nights in Iguassu Falls
- 2 nights in Rio de Janeiro
Tour
Highlights
Your Tour
Includes
- Round-trip airfare from the U.S. via LATAM Airlines
- Airfare taxes, fees & fuel surcharges
- All intra-South America flights & ground transportation
- Accommodations at deluxe & superior first-class hotels
- 19 meals: 13 buffet breakfasts (B), 1 lunch (L), 5 dinners (D)
- Comprehensive sightseeing tours and admission fees
- English-speaking Tour Director and local guides
Tour Itinerary
Arrive in Santiago
ChileThis morning, you’ll touch down in Santiago, the lively capital of Chile, located between the Pacific Ocean and the majestic Andes. On arrival, ride to the top of San Cristobal Hill for a bird’s-eye view of the city and the Andean mountain range. Later, learn more about Santiago’s charms and history from a local expert who will take you on a tour of the Plaza de Armas, the city’s main square, and the nearby Cathedral. You’ll also see the Palacio de la Moneda—home of the president—and the Bohemian section of Bellavista with its art galleries, restaurants and vibrantly colored…
Lake Region/Bariloche
ArgentinaToday’s unforgettable excursion is reputed to be one of the most scenic in the world. Traverse the Andean Mountains through the Lake District from Chile to Argentina. Enjoy dramatic landscapes, spectacular emerald green lakes, thundering waterfalls, snow-covered volcanoes and dense forests. The breathtaking scenery unfolds as you journey along winding roads overlooking the magical lakes of Chile’s Puyehue National Park and into Argentina’s equally amazing Nahuel Huapi National Park. Later in the day, you’ll arrive in the postcard-perfect town of Bariloche. B Hotel NH…
Bariloche
ArgentinaWith an idyllic setting reminiscent of the Swiss Alps, Bariloche is a lakeside town easily explored from your hotel. This morning, enjoy some time at your leisure—consider browsing the many nearby chocolate shops or enjoy a cup of coffee with a lake view. This afternoon, enjoy a “Small Circuit Tour,” recognized by National Geographic as one of the 10 most scenic drives in the world—highlighted by the forest, lakes and mountains surrounding Bariloche. The tour begins at Nahuel Huapi Lake, crosses the residential Melipal district and arrives at Playa Bonita, located in front of Huemul…
Buenos Aires
ArgentinaOn this morning’s guided tour see the Plaza de Mayor—Argentina’s most famous square, the iconic Opera House and the historic La Boca district, known for its street tango performances. You’ll then proceed to the elegant Recoleta district and the final resting place of the infamous Evita Peron. Prior to being interred here 24 years after her death, Evita’s remains were stolen and brought to Italy before being returned to her exiled husband in Madrid and being buried by his side in the Presidential Palace three years later. Then, finally, Evita was laid to rest in her family’s…
Iguassu/Rio de Janeiro
BrazilToday, you’ll catch a flight to Rio de Janeiro, often described as one of the world’s most beautiful cities. Sprawling between lush tropical mountains and the exquisite beaches of the Atlantic, Rio’s natural beauty and the warmth of its people will win your heart. This afternoon, you’ll ascend imposing Sugar Loaf Mountain by cable car to the 1,300-foot summit for stunning views of the city and surroundings. Later, you’ll ride beside the white-sand beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema before arriving at your luxurious hotel. B Sheraton Grand Rio Hotel & Resort (or…
Rio de Janeiro
BrazilHow will you do Rio? You have the entire day to decide! Jewelry fans will love shopping for authentic gemstones. Culture hounds can explore the city’s museums and historic monuments. Sunbathers can spend the day basking in the rays on the beach. If you’d rather get out of the city, you can join our optional full-day excursion to the picturesque mountain resort of Petropolis, 42 miles away. It’s such a desirable destination that Pedro II, the last emperor of Brazil, had a summer palace built there. Tonight, you’ll celebrate with your fellow travelers at a festive dinner. B/D…
Guided Tour Pricing
Price includes round-trip airfare from the U.S. (Land-only pricing available on request.)
| Depart | Return | Depart - Return | Best Value Pricing - Reserve by Mar 29, 2019 | Reserve after Mar 29, 2019 | Select Tour | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | 2019 | w/ eCheck Discount | Sale | After Sale | ||
| October 7 | October 22 | Oct 7 - Oct 22 | $4,199 | $4,299 | $4,599 | Book Now: |
| October 28 | November 12 | Oct 28 - Nov 12 | $4,299 | $4,399 | $4,699 | Book Now: |
| November 11 | November 26 | Nov 11 - Nov 26 | $4,399 | $4,499 | $4,799 | Book Now: |
| December 2 | December 17 | Dec 2 - Dec 17 | $4,399 | $4,499 | $4,799 | Book Now: |
| December 26 | January 10 | Dec 26 - Jan 10 | $4,499 | $4,599 | $4,899 | Book Now: |
Rates are per person based on double occupancy.
April 2019: Single room supplement is $799.
October 2019 Onwards: Single room supplement is $949.
NEW YORK DEPARTURES:
Add $100 if departing from New York (JFK)
Brazil visa fee is not included
For more information on these South American vacations, please contact us here or call us during business hours (Mon-Fri, 9:00-5:30 EST) at 800-337-7773.
Reservations and Payments
Reservations can be made by phone (1-800-337-7773) and will be confirmed upon receipt of $300 per person non-refundable, non-transferable deposit which must be received within 48 hours of reservation. Full payment is due 90 days prior to departure. Baggage fees may apply. Space and prices subject to availability. For complete booking information and terms & conditions click here.
Optional Tours Customize your trip with these optional tours.
Pricing is subject to change. Payment (non-refundable) should be made in U.S. Dollars by cash. Credit cards are not accepted. Optional tours are subject to a minimum number of participants and may be canceled if this minimum is not met. Additional optional tours may be added for your enjoyment.
Full-Day Vina del Mar, Valparaiso, and Winery Tour
- Santiago
- From approx. $85 Per Person
Enjoy an all-day excursion exploring Chile’s enchanting Pacific Coast cities and discovering its thriving wine-making industry. You’ll travel through lush countryside to Viña del Mar, Chile’s sophisticated summer resort. Continue to Valparaiso, Chile’s second-largest city, where 17 steep hills rise above the bustling port. Walk through the twisted cobblestone alleys and ancient ascensores and stop at one of the charming seaside restaurants for lunch (at your own expense). This afternoon, visit William Cole Vineyard in Chile’s famed wine-growing region. Here, you’ll enjoy a…
Petropolis plus Hippie Fair Full-Day Tour
- Rio de Janeiro
- From approx. $70 Per Person
Enjoy a perfect excursion to the picturesque mountain resort of Petropolis, the summer home to the former Brazilian Imperial Family. You’ll enjoy a scenic drive on a private Macro Bus from Rio to quaint Petropolis, with its breezy mountain climate and magnificent views from 2,500 feet above sea level. En route, you’ll enjoy a tasty stop for fresh Brazilian bananas before visiting a chocolate factory. Then tour the Imperial Museum, once the Summer Palace, with collections featuring jewels and works of art once owned by the Imperial Family as well as the Crown and Scepter of Brazil’s…
Featured Accommodations
Before You Depart
FLIGHT INFORMATION
Your departure flights to Santiago (Chile) and return flights from Rio de Janeiro are via LATAM Airlines. You are expected to check-in for your flight at least three-and-a-half hours before the scheduled departure. Please make sure to allow sufficient time for clearing immigration and customs if you are planning a connecting flight. We recommend at least three-and-a-half hours. Please keep in mind that flight schedules are always subject to change.
Miami (MIA) | New York (JFK) | |||
| Departure Date | Depart | Return | Depart | Return |
| 2019: Apr. 1 | 10:00PM | 7:00AM | 7:00PM | 9:00AM |
| 2019: Oct. 7 | 10:30PM | 6:00AM | 7:00PM | 8:00AM |
| 2019: Oct. 28 | 10:00PM | 6:00AM | 8:00PM | 8:00AM |
| 2019: Nov. 11 | 10:00PM | 6:00AM | 7:00PM | 8:00AM |
| 2019: Dec. 2 | 9:00PM | 6:00AM | 7:00PM | 8:00AM |
ADVANCE SEAT ASSIGNMENT AND FREQUENT FLYER MILES
LATAM Airlines does not assign seats in advance. Actual seat assignment will be provided at the airport. Please note that smarTours® is not involved with assigning seats. If you have a preferred seating choice, please make sure you check-in for your flight as early as possible.
LAND-ONLY TRAVELERS
International flights to/from the U.S. are not included. Land-only travelers are responsible for arranging entry and exit flights, as well as their arrival and departure transfers. smarTours cannot be held responsible for any damage caused by air schedule changes and delays. Unused land services are non-refundable.
Main Tour: Land services start upon independent check-in at your Santiago hotel on Day 2 of the itinerary and end on Day 15. If you wish to join the Santiago sightseeing on Day 2, we recommend that you arrive at the restaurant Divertimento Chileno (address: Av. El Cerro s/n, esquina Pedro de Valdiva Norte, Pargue Metropolitano) by 8:30am.
PASSPORT AND VISA INFORMATION
You must be in possession of a passport valid for at least 6 months after the date of travel.
U.S. citizens require a visa to enter Brazil. Non-U.S. citizens should check with the respective consulates of the countries on this tour for the most current visa requirements. Please note that visa procedures may change at any time. You should check directly with the consulate or go to CIBT online at www.cibt.com for the most up-to-date instructions before submitting your paperwork (detailed instructions below). Please remember that it is your responsibility to obtain the necessary travel documents before the trip.
To obtain an individual visa for Brazil, please follow one of the following:
- If you prefer to apply for your visa directly with the Brazilian Consulate, you may apply for an e-Visa online at http://www.vfsglobal.com/brazil-evisa/. If you plan to apply for your e-Visa online, please check the link for visa requirements, the application process (including visa processing times), application forms and fees.
- If you prefer to use a visa service to facilitate processing, we recommend CIBT. Please use the following link to download instructions and forms at http://www.cibt.com/home.aspx?Login=50002. If you do not have access to a computer, please contact CIBT directly at 800-406-1523 to have a form mailed to you. You can also call this number with questions regarding the application. If you plan to use CIBT, we recommend that you apply for your visa at least 90 days before your scheduled departure to South America.
TICKETS AND FINAL DOCUMENTS
Your airline tickets, along with final instructions and travel tips, will be sent to you 7–10 days before the scheduled departure of your tour. Please make sure to advise us in case your address changes.
HEALTH REQUIREMENTS
You should consult your personal physician, local public health authorities or the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) as to their recommendations, including immunization for Yellow Fever.
CLIMATE
Chile, Argentina and Brazil are located in the Southern hemisphere so their seasons are the reverse seasons of the U.S. Spring is in September/October/November with daytime average temperatures in the 50s and 70s. Summer is December through February with daytime average temperatures in the 80s. Early fall is in March with daytime average temperatures in the 70s and April’s average temperatures in the 60s. You can expect cooler temperatures in the Chilean Lake district and warmer temperatures in Rio. Overnight temperatures may lower by 10-20 degrees.
NON-INCLUDED MEALS
You may dine at the hotels on this tour or nearby restaurants—ask your guide for recommendations. Average cost for dinner (excluding drinks) in hotel cafes is about $20–$25 per person. Your hotel will accept credit cards for your non-included meals.
CREDIT CARDS AND LOCAL CURRENCY
Hotels and some stores accept major credit cards. However, for “street shopping” you will need local currency or U.S. Dollars. Your hotels will be able to exchange cash to local currency. It is recommended that you bring along cash in small denominations.
BAGGAGE
Each passenger may bring one piece of checked-in luggage (suitcase) max. 44 pounds, and one carry-on not exceeding 18”x10”x8”. We recommend that you do not overpack and that you take a variety of casual separates with climate and comfort in mind.
Multimedia
Check out videos from smarTours travelers on this trip of a lifetime!