From Patagonia to Iguazu Falls and Rio
About the trip
Begin in Santiago de Chile, where historic landmarks like Plaza de Armas and the Metropolitan Cathedral introduce you to the country’s cultural roots. Continue south to the Lake District, exploring Puerto Varas and Puerto Montt, where volcanoes, forests, and scenic routes define the landscape.
Cross into Argentina and discover Bariloche, known for its alpine atmosphere, artisanal chocolate, and trails around the Llao-Llao Peninsula. The journey then moves to Buenos Aires, where you will experience the city’s cultural energy and enjoy a traditional tango show paired with local cuisine.
From there, travel to Iguazú Falls and walk along pathways that bring you close to one of the most powerful natural spectacles in the world.
End your trip in Rio de Janeiro, where iconic landmarks like Christ the Redeemer rise above a city framed by mountains and ocean.
Welcome to Santiago
Valparaíso & Viña del Mar
Today, you will leave Santiago behind and head toward the Chilean coast. Along the way, you will pass through the Casablanca Valley, known for its vineyards and open landscapes, before reaching the Pacific Ocean.
Valparaíso’s Hills & Culture
Your first stop is Valparaíso, a historic port city recognized for its colorful hillsides and artistic character. You will explore neighborhoods such as Cerro Alegre and Cerro Concepción, walking through narrow streets, viewpoints, and areas shaped by its bohemian identity.
The visit includes a ride on one of the city’s traditional funiculars and a stop at Paseo Yugoslavo for panoramic views of the bay. You will also pass by La Sebastiana, the former home of poet Pablo Neruda, known for its distinctive architecture and cultural significance.
Viña del Mar & Coastal Scenery
The journey continues to Viña del Mar, a coastal city known for its gardens and seaside setting. Here, you will explore areas such as the Casino de Juegos, Plaza Vergara, and the beaches of Reñaca, where the pace becomes more relaxed and the ocean takes center stage.
At the end of the day, you will return to Santiago after experiencing a full day along Chile’s coastline.
Flight to the Lake District
Today, you will leave Santiago and travel south to Chile’s Lake District. At the scheduled time, you will be transferred by private service from your hotel to the airport for your flight to Puerto Montt.
Upon arrival, a transfer will take you to your hotel in Puerto Varas, a town set along the shores of Lake Llanquihue and surrounded by volcanoes and forests.
Arrival in Puerto Varas
The rest of the day will be free for you to settle in and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the region. Known for its natural scenery and lakeside setting, Puerto Varas offers a quieter pace and a different perspective of Chile’s landscapes.
Osorno Volcano & Petrohué Falls
Exploring Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park
Today, you will discover some of the most iconic landscapes of Chile’s Lake District within Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park. Departing from Puerto Varas, the journey follows the shores of Lake Llanquihue, with views of the Osorno and Calbuco volcanoes rising in the distance.
Osorno Volcano Views
Arriving at the Ensenada sector, you will ascend toward the Osorno Volcano Ski and Mountain Center. From this vantage point, you can take in wide views of the surrounding volcanic terrain, Lake Llanquihue, and, on clear days, even the Pacific Ocean.
There will be time to enjoy the setting, with the option to take a lift to higher viewpoints or simply relax at the mountain center.
Petrohué Falls & Todos los Santos Lake
The excursion continues toward Petrohué Falls, where turquoise waters flow over volcanic rock formations, creating one of the region’s most distinctive natural sights.
Later, you will visit the shores of Todos los Santos Lake, known for its calm waters and lush surroundings. You may take a short walk along the lake or choose an optional navigation to experience the landscape from a different perspective.
At the end of the day, you will return to Puerto Varas after exploring the highlights of this unique Patagonian environment.
Crossing the Andes
A Scenic Andean Crossing
Today, you will travel from Chile to Argentina on one of the most scenic routes in Patagonia. The journey begins early, departing from Puerto Varas and following the shores of Lake Llanquihue, with views of the Osorno and Calbuco volcanoes along the way.
Lakes, Forests & Border Crossing
Upon entering Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park, you will stop at Petrohué Falls, where turquoise waters flow over volcanic rock formations. From there, you will board a boat to cross Todos los Santos Lake, surrounded by mountains and dense vegetation, arriving in the small village of Peulla.
The journey continues by land toward the border, crossing the Andes through remote landscapes. After formalities, you will navigate across Lago Frías and continue by bus toward Puerto Blest, already within Argentina.
Arrival in Puerto Blest
Once there, you will have the afternoon at leisure to explore the surroundings or simply enjoy the peaceful setting. Surrounded by forest and lake views, this area offers a quieter side of Patagonia.
You will spend the night in Puerto Blest, immersed in nature after a full day crossing the Andes.
Morning in Puerto Blest
Start your day at your own pace, enjoying the calm surroundings of Puerto Blest. If you wish, you can take a self-guided walk to Cascada Los Cántaros, following forest trails that lead to a series of waterfalls set within dense vegetation.
Crossing Lake Nahuel Huapi
In the afternoon, you will continue your journey by boat across Lake Nahuel Huapi. As you navigate its deep blue waters, the surrounding mountains and forests provide a final glimpse of this remote corner of Patagonia.
The navigation ends at Puerto Pañuelo, where a bus will be waiting to take you to Bariloche.
Arrival in Bariloche
Known for its alpine scenery, lakes, and mountain setting, Bariloche offers a mix of outdoor experiences and local culture. Upon arrival, you will have the rest of the day free to explore—whether walking through the town center, tasting its well-known chocolate, or enjoying the views along the lake.
Nature & Scenic Views
Today, you will explore the surroundings of San Carlos de Bariloche on a half-day excursion that combines landscapes and local history. After being picked up from your hotel, the tour begins with visits to some of the region’s most iconic viewpoints.
You will stop at Cerro Campanario and the Llao Llao area, where panoramic views open over Nahuel Huapi and Moreno Lakes, framed by the surrounding mountain ranges. Along the way, your guide will share insights into the development of Bariloche and its alpine character.
Forests & Local Flavors
The journey continues into Llao Llao Municipal Park, where you will take a gentle walk through native forest, including areas where arrayanes trees grow. This section offers a quieter moment to connect with the natural environment.
To conclude the experience, you will stop at a local microbrewery for lunch, accompanied by a tasting of regional craft beers.
After the excursion, you will return to your hotel, with the rest of the day free to continue enjoying Bariloche at your own pace.
Arrival in the Capital
Buenos Aires
Flight to Puerto Iguazú
At the scheduled time, you will be transferred from your hotel to Aeroparque Jorge Newbery Airport for your flight to Puerto Iguazú. Upon arrival, a transfer will take you to your hotel.
Arrival in the Jungle
Surrounded by lush rainforest, Puerto Iguazú is the gateway to one of South America’s most remarkable natural sites: Iguazú Falls. The change in landscape is immediate, with a tropical climate and dense vegetation setting a different tone for the next stage of your journey.
The rest of the day will be free to relax, explore the town, or simply enjoy the atmosphere as you prepare for the experiences ahead.
Exploring Iguazú National Park
Today, you will visit Iguazú National Park on the Argentine side. After being picked up from your hotel, you will enter the rainforest, where the falls are surrounded by a rich subtropical ecosystem. Along the way, your guide will help you spot wildlife such as toucans, parrots, and coatis.
Walkways & Viewpoints
You will explore both the upper and lower circuits, each offering different perspectives of the waterfalls. These paths and walkways bring you close to the cascades, allowing you to appreciate their scale from multiple angles.
The highlight of the day is the visit to the “Devil’s Throat,” the most powerful section of the falls. To reach it, you will take the ecological train and then walk along boardwalks that lead directly to this impressive viewpoint.
After the visit, you will have some free time to relax or enjoy lunch within the park.
At the end of the day, you will return to your hotel after experiencing one of South America’s most remarkable natural settings.
Panoramic Views from Brazil
Today, you will cross the border into Brazil to visit Foz do Iguaçu National Park. After being picked up from your hotel, you will head to the park—remember to bring your passport for the border crossing.
From the Brazilian side, you will experience wide panoramic views of Iguazú Falls. Accompanied by your guide, you will travel through the park and walk along trails and boardwalks that lead to different viewpoints. From here, you can fully appreciate the scale of the falls and approach the area near the “Devil’s Throat,” where the power of the water is most evident.
Flight to Rio de Janeiro
After the visit, you will return to your hotel in Puerto Iguazú and later be transferred to the airport for your flight to Rio de Janeiro.
Upon arrival, you will continue your journey in one of South America’s most vibrant cities, where beaches, mountains, and urban life come together.
Rio de Janeiro
Today, you will explore two of Rio de Janeiro’s most emblematic landmarks. After being picked up from your hotel, you will head to the Cosme Velho district to board the historic cog train that climbs through Tijuca Forest toward Corcovado Hill.
At the summit, you will reach Christ the Redeemer, where panoramic views open over the city—Guanabara Bay, the beaches of the South Zone, Sugarloaf Mountain, and the Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon.
Sugarloaf Experience
After a break, the journey continues to the Urca neighborhood for a visit to Sugarloaf Mountain. The ascent is made in two stages by cable car: first to Urca Hill, and then to the summit. From the top, you will have wide views of Copacabana, the coastline, and the surrounding landscapes.
Return to the Hotel
At the end of the day, you will be transferred back to your hotel, after experiencing some of the most recognizable views in Rio de Janeiro.
Departure from Rio de Janeiro
At the scheduled time, you will be transferred from your hotel to Rio de Janeiro airport for your onward flight.
Your journey across South America comes to an end, after exploring a diverse mix of cities, cultures, and natural landscapes.
If you are already thinking about your next destination, there are many more experiences across the region waiting to be discovered.
Included
- 2 Nights in Santiago de Chile
- 2 Nights in Puerto Varas
- 4 Nights in Bariloche
- 2 Nights in Buenos Aires
- 2 Nights in Puerto Iguazu
- 2 Nights in Rio De Janeiro
- Transfers & Meals mentioned in the itinerary.
- Tours described in the itinerary.
- Bilingual guides (English/Spanish) when mentioned in the itinerary
Not Included
- Fees & Mandatory Documentation (For more information click HERE).Except when mentioned in the itinerary.
- International or Domestic Flights (quoted separated if requested).
- Travel / Medical Insurance – To get a free quotation please follow this link: Travel Insurance.
- Tips: For more information click HERE.