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You’re already coming this far . . . Why not add another dimension to your South American experience by visiting the iconic wine country of Chile? You’ll be based in Santiago, enjoying sightseeing in the exciting capital and nearby Valparaíso, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Then, see the beautiful Andean countryside as you explore the Casablanca and Santa Rita wineries, enjoying tastings of some of Chiles’ classic vintages.
Your Price Includes:
Fly to Chile
You’ll board an overnight flight to Santiago, Chile, arriving on Day 2.
Arrival in Santiago and afternoon city tour
Upon arrival this morning, if you purchased Vantage air, you’ll be transferred to your centrally located hotel from the airport. We have arranged for an early check-in so you can settling in and rest. Remember also to take advantage of the hospitality desk during your stay, where you can plan activities; or use our complimentary Concierge service to do so in advance.
This afternoon, embark on a panoramic tour of Santiago’s colonial and contemporary highlights, including the famous Alameda, the city’s bustling main avenue; and the Plaza de Armas, the old colonial heart of the city with its attractive Metropolitan Cathedral, Central Post Office, and Royal Palace. This evening, our small group will get better acquainted over a Welcome Dinner at a local restaurant.
Included meals:
Full-day Valparaíso and Casablanca winery excursion
Embark on a full-day exploration of quirky Valparaíso, one of Chile’s most important seaports and its second-largest city. Set in the valley of the Andes in a natural amphitheater overlooking the sea, this hilly Pacific port boasts a historic quarter named a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its 19th-century architecture and urban planning. Today, “Valpo,” as it’s colloquially known, is a trendy destination thanks to its bold and imaginative street art, which covers surfaces all over the city. You’ll check out views of Valpo on a funicular ride.
On your way back to Santiago you’ll ride through the Casablanca Valley, stopping at a winery to explore, enjoy a traditional lunch, and taste the delicious Sauvignon Blancs and Chardonnays that this region is known for. You’ll be back in Santiago in time for dinner on your own. Your Vantage City Host will be happy to assist with tips, directions, and making reservations.
Tour the famous Santa Rita Winery
After breakfast you’ll ride north through the lush Maipo Valley to the town of Alto Jahuel, home of Chile’s oldest and most famous winery, Santa Rita. You’ll explore the vineyards, gardens, and the cellars, where you’ll sample some Reserva and Gran Reserva wines. Santa Rita is known for its outstanding Triple C, a blend of the varietals Cármenère, Cabernet Franc, and Cabernet Sauvignon. It also produces Pehuén, made mainly from Cármernère grapes with distinctive expressions of the local Apalta terroir. While here you’ll enjoy lunch at the cafeteria La Pañaderia, originally built as a bakery to provide bread for the vineyard workers. Time permitting, you can peek into the Museo Andino (Andean Museum), whose collections include silverware, ceramics, wooden masks, musical instruments and more.
Back in Santiago you’ll stop at the Palacio Cousinos Museum, a national monument that was built in the 19th-century by a wealthy industrialist family. It is filled with stunning art and lavish antique furniture. The balance of the day is free for you to explore and enjoy dinner on your own.
Fly to Buenos Aires and commence your base cruise tour
After breakfast you’ll transfer to the airport and fly to Buenos Aires, Argentina, arriving in time to join Day 2 of your base cruise tour itinerary.
When Eleanor Roosevelt first laid eyes on Iguassu Falls, she is famously said to have uttered, “Poor Niagara”! It’s easy to understand what overwhelmed the First Lady. This torrent of water separating Brazil and Argentina plunges over 200-foot-high cliffs in a roaring fury of water. (In fact, Iguaçu translates roughly from the local Tupi-Guarani into “great water.”) Judging from Ms. Roosevelt’s reaction, you’ll want to extend your expedition to view Brazil’s other breathtaking natural wonder. Explore the cataracts from both countries, getting as close to the falls as the spraying mist allows. Join us on this thrilling adventure!
Fly overnight to Brazil
Today, you’ll board an overnight flight to Iguassu Falls, Brazil.
Get settled into your hotel room in Iguassu Falls
If you purchased your airfare from Vantage, you’ll be met at the airport by a representative who will assist you with your hotel transfer. Today, enjoy complete leisure as you acclimate; dinner is included at the hotel. Our discoveries begin tomorrow.
Explore the Brazilian side of Iguassu Falls
Transfer to Iguassu Falls to explore its Brazilian side. We’ll take a walking tour with incredible views, including the Devil’s Throat. This is the largest of the falls, where torrents crash into a narrow canyon. The tour will end at Porto Canoas, where you’ll be free to have lunch on your own. We'll keep the adventure rolling into the afternoon with the Macuco Safari Boat Ride. An open trolley will whisk you through dense rainforest for vistas of flowers, birds, butterflies, and ages-old trees. Then, get your waterproof camera ready, as we embark on speedboats bound for Iguaçu’s gorge. Your experienced river pilots will give you a thrilling ride through the rapids, guiding you right up to the splashing cascades. (Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and clothes, as you will likely get soaked!) Tonight, we’ll embrace the spirit of Brazil with a night on the town. On the menu are drinks and a lively samba dance show. You’ll learn more about this vibrant dance and music genre, which originates from African religious traditions, as well as other regional dance forms. Included Features:
Discover the Argentinian side of Iguassu
Today’s discoveries take us into Argentina for more views of Iguassu Falls, the world’s largest waterfall system, with 275 falls in less than a two-mile radius. Our first views of will be from the Upper Trail, which offers a premium vantage point of this natural wonder as we literally walk across the water! Lunch is on our own in the park; dinner is included at the hotel tonight. Included Feature:
Fly to Rio de Janeiro
Today, we’ve arranged a flight into Rio, where you’ll join the base tour.
Transfer to Iguassu Falls to explore its Brazilian side. We’ll take a walking tour with incredible views, including the Devil’s Throat. This is the largest of the falls, where torrents crash into a narrow canyon. The tour will end at Porto Canoas, where you’ll be free to have lunch on your own. We'll keep the adventure rolling into the afternoon with the Macuco Safari Boat Ride. An open trolley will whisk you through dense rainforest for vistas of flowers, birds, butterflies, and ages-old trees. Then, get your waterproof camera ready, as we embark on speedboats bound for Iguaçu’s gorge. Your experienced river pilots will give you a thrilling ride through the rapids, guiding you right up to the splashing cascades. (Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and clothes, as you will likely get soaked!) After drying off and enjoying some time to get ready, we’ll dine at the hotel this evening. Included Features:
Today’s discoveries take us into Argentina for more views of Iguassu Falls, the world’s largest waterfall system, with 275 falls in less than a two-mile radius. Our first views of will be from the Upper Trail, which offers a premium vantage point of this natural wonder as we literally walk across the water! Lunch is on our own in the park. Tonight, we’ll embrace the spirit of Brazil with a night on the town. On the menu are drinks and a lively samba dance show. You’ll learn more about this vibrant dance and music genre, which originates from African religious traditions, as well as other regional dance forms. Included Feature:
Today, you’ll board your return flight home to the U.S.
