The Rhythm of Buenos Aires & Uruguay

Arrive at the cultural center of Argentina, the romantic capital city of Buenos Aires. Meet your travel guide and transfer to your hotel. Spend the rest of the day discovering the neighborhood or relax at the hotel’s swimming pool, gym and sauna.

Set out on a 4-hour Buenos Aires tour to capture the spirit of the city. Learn why Buenos Aires is called the "Paris of South America" while admiring the French-influenced architecture of its 18th and 19th-century buildings. See the striking Obelisk at the head of 9 de Julio Avenue, the world's widest street. Next, explore major sights such as the classical Colon Theater and the Embassy of France, and the bustling squares of Plaza de Mayo and Plaza San Martín. Experience the distinctive characters of La Boca, San Telmo and Montserrat, Recoleta and Palermo neighborhoods.

Finally, meander along Puerto Madero's waterfront to spy white yachts moored in the harbor, see the towering skyscrapers and stop to marvel at the iconic Woman's Bridge.

In the evening, get into the swing of things at a dinner and dance show at a famous tango club. Sit down to a mouth-watering 3-course dinner paired with Argentine wine and enjoy watching the tango dancers perform with passion and skill. In the late evening, return to your hotel.

Today, retreat to the natural haven of El Tigre where the elite porteños of Buenos Aires maintain summer homes and mansions on the banks of the Paraná River delta. Embark on a 6-hour tour, transfer to the port and board a small boat for a cruise along the Paraná River's Delta. Relax in the serene atmosphere away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Be invited into the locals’ homes and get to know the isleños over lunch. Return to your hotel in the afternoon and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure.

Venture to the countryside today and experience life on an estancia, a ranch where gauchos tend to cattle and sheep. Much of Patagonia and the interior of Argentina was settled by gauchos. Head outdoors to enjoy horseback riding, tractor rides and cattle herding demonstrations. After taking in the fresh air, sit down to a delicious homemade lunch and be entertained by a folklore show where locals perform dances in traditional attire. Return to Buenos Aires in the late afternoon.

This morning, transfer to the Buquebus Pier and cruise across the Rio de la Plata on a ferry ride to the city of Colonia del Sacramento in Uruguay. Be greeted by your guide and head to your hotel to check-in. Unpack, have a brief rest, and then head out on a city tour. Founded in 1680, the Spanish and Portuguese both fought to gain control of the city, and today Colonia is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its cobblestone streets, fine dining, arts and craft shops, museums and scenic harbor. Visit the historic port, the Barrio Historico, the Ferrando Beach, the main square and the Plaza de Toros. Then return to your hotel and unwind after a busy day sightseeing.

Board a coach from Colonia bus station and travel to Montevideo today. After checking into your hotel, learn about what makes Uruguayan and Argentine culture both distinct and unique during a city tour. Visit the Legislative Palace, the colorful street markets, Plaza Independencia and the traditional Prado district. Continue to explore and wander around the Old City to delight in the rich European-style architecture. Then, visit the port market and perhaps stop for a lunch of fresh fish (not included). In the evening, enjoy a dinner-show where local musicians will perform and play Uruguayan tango, milonga and candombe, popular rhythms to dance to during Carnival. Return to the hotel in the afternoon.

Rise early this morning and journey to Punta del Este. On the way, visit picturesque Piriápolis and San Antonio Hill. Upon arrival at Punta del Este, visit Punta Ballena, and the impressive Casapueblo built by the famous Uruguayan artist Carlos Páez Vilaró. There’s also the option to discover his atelier (entrance fee not included). Afterward, explore the neighborhoods of Beverly Hills, San Rafael and Categril Golf before marveling at the extravagant La Barra bridge in Maldonado. Then it’s time to see the seaside. Stroll along Gorlero and enjoy the ocean breeze at the Mansa and Brava beaches. Stop for a bite of lunch at the port (not included) and leisurely return to Montevideo in the afternoon.

This morning, transfer to the Montevideo airport for your flight home or continue traveling to your next destination in South America.