Argentina & Brazil Total Solar Eclipse Tour

Arrive in Rio de Janeiro. A representative will be on hand to arrange an easy transfer from the airport to the hotel. After settling all belongings at the hotel, take a stroll on Copacabana beach and explore the marvelous city of Rio at leisure. 

The first full day in Rio begins with a train ride to the top of Corcovado Mountain to take in remarkable views from the foot of the massive Christ the Redeemer statue – a gift from the French government that since 1931 has been an instantly recognizable symbol of the city. 

Then, transfer to another stunning overlook at Dona Marta, which has panoramic views of the mountains, islands and beaches that create Rio’s spectacular setting. Today’s scenic drive continues through the historic Santa Teresa neighborhood, with a stop at Ruins Park for more superb vistas, followed by a short walk to the famous tiled Selarón Steps in the bohemian Lapa neighborhood. After lunch, relax back at the hotel or spend some more time exploring before the day ends.

Today, experience both the new and old neighborhoods of Rio de Janeiro. Begin by taking the cable car up Sugarloaf Mountain, eventually reaching 1,300 ft (400 m) above sea level. Enjoy great views of Guanabara Bay and Rio’s Pacific beaches, lined with apartment towers and hotels. Later, travel to the historic city center and tour the new harbor built for the 2016 Summer Olympics. After lunch at a local restaurant, relax at the hotel, visit the beach, or go shopping for souvenirs to take back home. 

In the morning, transfer to Iguazu Falls in southern Brazil. Upon arrival, transfer into the renowned Iguazu National Park, where one can stay at the historic hotel for the next three nights. At this hotel, magnificent views of the falls are just steps away. 

Enjoy an afternoon by the pool or exploring the hotel’s beautiful grounds.

Begin the morning with a hearty Brazilian breakfast and embark on a half-mile walk through the Brazilian side of Iguazu National Park to view the breathtaking natural phenomenon at its heart. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984, the falls span some 1.75 miles (3 km) where the Iguazu River drops vertically more than 260 ft (80 m) in a series of stunning cataracts. On the walk, soak in the many overlooks above and the thundering water below. Spot colorful lizards and butterflies, along with exotic flowers and lush tropical vegetation at every turn. Iguazu is unlike any other place on Earth.

Now it’s time to get an entirely new angle on Iguazu – during a full-day visit on the Argentine side of the falls. Cross the Brazil-Argentina border by motor coach, and ride a scenic railway into the park. Upon arrival, walk a nature trail just above the fast-moving Iguazu River. This destination is the most dramatic section of Iguazu, the Devil’s Throat, where travelers can look right down into the massive rush of water cascading over the canyon walls.

After lunch, opt for a drive through the rainforest to the river’s edge. Here, board an inflatable powerboat for an excursion underneath the falls. Cruise slowly along the calm waters upriver into the roiling base of Iguazu. Snap photos – and get marvelously wet – as the boat passes through swirling clouds of spray. The thrill of passing right through the world’s largest waterfalls is an experience you’ll never forget.

Transfer from Iguazu Falls to San Carlos de Bariloche, a resort town in Argentina’s pristine Patagonia wilderness. Check-in to the hotel and enjoy excellent views of the nearest mountain peaks, Cerro Lopez and Tronador, and the surrounding glacial lakes such as Moreno and Nahuel Huapi.

In the morning, travel around the surrounding terrain of Bariloche. Explore the shores of Nahuel Huapi on winding roads and trails beneath the snow-capped peaks. After lunch, visit an Alpine-style village founded by German and Swiss settlers, where shops selling locally made crafts, outdoor apparel and artisanal chocolates are available. In the evening, join an expert briefing on tomorrow’s total solar eclipse.

Today, rise before the sun and travel to a specially selected eclipse-viewing site. Experience standing 1 minute and 52 seconds in the Moon’s shadow. A great day concludes back at the hotel, where a dinner and a toast to an unforgettable adventure will be enjoyed.

After breakfast, say farewell to the Patagonian wilderness and transfer to Bariloche airport for a flight to Argentina’s elegant capital, Buenos Aires.

Explore the city of Buenos Aires on a guided tour. Visit some of its most intriguing neighborhoods – including La Boca, with its colorfully painted houses and cafes, and San Telmo, whose bustling market is filled with local goods, souvenirs and foods. Next, take a tour of the historic center of Buenos Aires, with its broad, European-style avenues and famed obelisk. Visit Recoleta Cemetery to see the tomb of Eva Perón, celebrated in popular culture as “Evita”. Finish in the fashionable neighborhood of Puerto Madero, the former port of Buenos Aires, boasting luxury hotels, office and condo towers, and a yacht club.

After breakfast, travel north into the surrounding province of Buenos Aires, leaving the urban streets behind. Board a wooden ship, and become immersed in the area’s natural beauty. Meet the local villagers and get a taste of their island lifestyle – including the daily visits of the lancha almacen, or grocery boat. After a leisurely lunch, return to Buenos Aires to relax before the farewell dinner featuring a live tango performance.

Enjoy a final breakfast at the hotel, and then transfer to the Buenos Aires airport (code: EZE) for a flight back home to the next destination. 

Optional Add-ons: Nights in Rio de Janeiro, Amazon Cruise - Rio Negro from Manaus, Brazil