Experience Overview
Get a taste of South America on a 10-day journey from Buenos Aires to Rio de Janeiro. Wander through artistic neighbourhoods and markets in Argentina's capital, then travel through the sprawling Ibera Wetlands in search of capybaras, caimans and otters. Continue to Foz do Iguazu to meet the Indigenous Guarani community and check out the magnificent Iguazu Falls from both sides – and maybe take a boat ride to get close to the spray. Finish up in Brazil's famous beach city for cable car rides, caipirinhas and samba bars – all fuelled by steak, empanadas and the infectious energy of the locals.
Highlights
- Discover the highlights of Buenos Aires, Argentina's sizzling capital, on a walking tour. Pass the stunning Colon Theatre, the star-studded Recoleta cemetery and hidden milongas (tango halls).
- Explore the swamps and lagoons of Argentina's Ibera Wetlands – the second largest wetlands in the world – in search of anacondas, otters, howler monkeys and over 350 species of colourful birds.
- Feast on a classic asado (barbecue) lunch in the Ibera Wetlands – and maybe have a go at kneading some dough to bake Argentinian bread – before gaining insight into everyday life over yerba mate tea with your hosts.
- See the roaring Iguazu Falls from both the Argentinian and Brazilian sides, maybe opting for a scenic helicopter ride or an exhilarating Zodiac tour to get closer.
- Kick back on the beaches of Rio de Janeiro, visit a traditional farmers’ market and take in the views of Brazil’s coastal icon from Sugarloaf Mountain.
Trip Details
Product Code: 1929
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Moderate
Transport: Plane, Local bus, Private vehicle
Guide Language: English
Travel Styles: Explorer
Tour Operator: Intrepid Travel
Supplier Code: GGSW
Starts: Buenos Aires, Argentina
Finishes: Rio de Janeiro, Argentina
Duration: 10 days
Departures: Not Guaranteed
Physical Rating: Light
Includes
Meals: Breakfasts (9), Lunch (1),Accommodation: Hotel (9 nights)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $5450 ($545 /day)
Itinerary
Bienvenido! Welcome to Buenos Aires. Argentina’s cosmopolitan capital has Latin passion, European elegance and its own distinctive style. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6pm where you’ll meet your local leader and fellow travellers. Your leader will leave a note at the hotel reception telling you where it will take place. If you arrive early, why not take a stroll around the historic San Telmo neighbourhood filled with murals, mansions and markets? After the meeting, maybe head out for dinner with your group to get to know each other.
Optional Activities:
- Buenos Aires - Coastal train (10 USD)
- Buenos Aires - Tango show ticket prices from (120 USD)
- Buenos Aires - Football game (subject to availability) from (120 USD)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
After breakfast, head out on an orientation walk of the city with your leader. You'll be introduced to some of Buenos Aires' major sights – the likes of the Colon Theatre (considered one of the most beautiful opera theatres in the world), the historic monument of Obelisc and Plaza de Mayo – home to the original town hall and the presidential palace known as the Pink House. The rest of the day is free to explore as you like – how about a beginner’s tango class or some people-watching with a glass of malbec? For dinner tonight, you could ask your leader where to find the best traditional asado (barbecue).
Included Activities:
- Buenos Aires - Leader-led orientation walk
Optional Activities:
- Buenos Aires - Polo day (185 USD)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning, take a short flight to Posadas followed by a drive to Ituzaingo – a riverside city on the banks of the Parana River and your base to explore the Ibera Wetlands region. Spanning over 15,000 square kilometres, these wetlands are roughly the size of Belgium, which gives you an idea of how much there is to explore. The biodiversity is incredible, and the swamps, lakes and lagoons are home to many creatures including otters, alligators, deer, wolves and black howler monkeys to name a few. Also keep a look out for those oddly noble-looking creatures, the capybaras – cousins of the guinea pig and the largest rodents in the world.
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today you’ll do full day tour and safari of the wetlands with a local guide. You could see an array of mammals, reptiles and birds – maybe caiman or swamp deer, an armadillo, or a flock of rhea (which are like a South American equivalent of an emu). Anacondas, though particularly hard to spot at certain times of the year, are also known to inhabit these wetlands. Keep an eye to the sky, as you're bound to catch a glimpse of some of the 350 bird species here, from the sharp-tailed tyrant to the gorgeous yellow robin. For lunch, tuck into a delicious asado and maybe even have a go at kneading some dough for Argentinian bread. The evening is free to unwind or grab dinner with the group.
Included Activities:
- Ibera Wetlands - Day tour
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Have a hearty breakfast and prepare for a long travel day. Take a comfortable local bus to Puerto Iguazu. From here, you’ll transfer to a minivan and drive to a Guarani community. The Guarani are one of the region’s remaining Indigenous peoples, and you’ll have the opportunity to learn about their way of life and how they've preserved their traditions on the edge of one of South America’s most popular attractions. Later, cross the border into Brazil and continue to your hotel in Foz do Iguazu.
Included Activities:
- Iguazu Falls - Guarani community visit
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today you'll visit the mighty Iguazu Falls from both the Brazilian and Argentinian sides. At over two km long, the falls are actually a series of cataracts (large waterfalls). There are over 270 in total, with some reaching up to 80 m tall, and they're wider than Victoria Falls and higher than Niagara. Enjoy the panoramas on the Brazilian side – including a view of San Martin Island which you don't quite get from the Argentinean side. You might like to take a helicopter ride over while you're here. This optional activity gives you spectacular views of the cascades and the lush parklands that surround it.
Included Activities:
- Iguazu Falls - Tour of the Brazilian side of the falls
Optional Activities:
- Iguazu Falls - Zodiac ride up to the falls (90 USD)
- Iguazu Falls - Helicopter ride (130 USD)
- Iguazu Falls - Bird Park Entrance (80 BRL)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today you'll go to the Argentinean side of the falls where it’s possible to follow a series of boardwalks and get up close to the thundering waters – so close you can almost touch them. For a more exhilarating experience, you could also jump on a Zodiac tour that takes you around the base the cascades. Return to your hotel later in the afternoon to relax and prepare for tomorrow’s journey to Rio de Janeiro.
Included Activities:
- Iguazu Falls - Tour of the Argentinian side of the falls
Optional Activities:
- Iguazu Falls - Zodiac ride up to the falls (90 USD)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today you'll take a flight to Rio de Janeiro, the festive heart of Brazil. When you arrive, settle into your hotel and then join your leader for an orientation walk. Rio is a diverse city best known for its beaches, Carnaval and contrasting images of favelas (informal settlements) and luxury districts. After, enjoy some free time to explore your way – your leader can provide recommendations. Perhaps head to a football game, take a cable car ride between Praia Vermelha and the Sugarloaf Mountain for views over the city or enjoy a caipirinha at a beachside bar.
Optional Activities:
- Rio de Janeiro - Carnival rehearsal (June to Carnival only) from (120 BRL)
- Rio de Janeiro - Football Game (schedule dependent) from (400 BRL)
- Rio de Janeiro - Sugarloaf Mountain Cable Car (entrance) (160 BRL)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning you'll be picked up at your hotel and head straight to Christ the Redeemer to try and beat the crowds. Soak up the early morning air and take some photos of this iconic statue before heading to a local farmers’ market. Your leader will show you some of the favourite local foods to try and introduce you to market traditions. The rest of the afternoon is free to relax or explore more of the city. As it’s your last night together as a group, you could head out for a farewell dinner and say saude (cheers) to your adventure.
Included Activities:
- Rio de Janeiro - Corcovado, Christ the Redeemer & Farmer's Market Urban Adventure
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
With no activities planned, you’re free to leave your hotel after breakfast. If you'd like to extend your time in Rio, just let us know and we’ll be happy to organise additional accommodation (subject to availability).
Optional Activities:
- Ilha Grande - Day trip (390 BRL)
Similar Tours
Tour Operator
Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.
In Business Since 1989
Reviews
Robyn - Traveled, April 2023
Our trip through Argentina & Brazil was great fun and really interesting. There was a balance between early starts and regular starts which was appreciated. Our tour leader Andrés was beyond excellent, a fun guy but also super organised, knowledgeable, respectful, responsible & inclusive.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/17/2023
Nigel - Traveled, April 2023
First thing I have to say..is you will never regret going with Intrepid… had done things you would of never to think of doing yourself..guides are just so amazing..and knowledgeable..also you come away really understanding all aspects of why the cultures and communities operate..and just to live..highly recommended..so much fun..
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/20/2023
Amy - Traveled, November 2022
"Adventure" might be a little strong to describe this trip unless the optional activities are considered. The trip starts slow, but has some highlights. Optional activities for tango show, boat ride, samba show, and Sugarloaf Mountain are all great. Iguazu Falls are spectacular! Andres, the trip leader, does a fantastic job, and all local guides are also great.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/21/2022
Kirstie - Traveled, October 2023
Well-organised trip, I felt very safe and I had a great time as well! We covered a lot of destinations that would have been a logistical nightmare to book on my own. I particularly appreciate Intrepid’s commitment to ethical tourism and impacting local communities in a beneficial way.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/25/2023
Natasha - Traveled, November 2022
Trip of a life time! I have always wanted to go to Argentina and Brazil and this trip far exceeded my expectations . I knew that I would love Buenos Aires and Rio but my favourite part of the trip was actually the town Ituizango - it’s stunning river beaches , sunsets, the safari through the wetlands and the smaller town vibe with such friendly local people . I really felt I was in the heart of South America here . 100% recommend!!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/18/2022
Paul - Traveled, October 2022
This trip was as it said in the brochure.It is a very busy trip which takes in many different sites at a steady speed.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/02/2022
Madeleine - Traveled, July 2022
Disappointing itinerary with an inadequate and disengaged guide This trip was expensive. I’m curious where the money was spent. The itinerary was sparse and unsatisfactory. The 2 days at the waterfalls is the only aspect that makes this trip worthwhile. The rest was squandered on travel. Exactly HALF confined to coaches and buses. Disengaged guide Nico who couldn’t care less about being a group leader. Covid precautions grossly mishandled when a traveller tested positive. Protocols put us all in jeopardy. Most money I’ve wasted in 10 days. After 6 trips, I no longer recommend Intrepid.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/04/2022
Swapna - Traveled, July 2022
Ridiculously expensive. Pathetic itinerary. 50% of the trip wasted on full travel days. Disengaged and ineffective leader. Extremely poor accommodations. Total waste of time and money!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/04/2022
Elaine - Traveled, July 2022
The Argentina Brazil Adventure was a great introduction to these countries. There were interesting sites and experiences. Iguazu Falls were amazing!! Our guide Andres was outstanding!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/01/2022
Mary - Traveled, June 2022
Excellent tour leader as usual although the itinerary could be improved through better use of time (ie less travel during daytime)
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/03/2022
Rachel - Traveled, April 2022
Augustin/Gus was was a great tour guide all round. He was very upbeat, chatty, knowledgeable and extremely organised - i didn't have to do anything which is exactly what I wanted :) All the accommodation was good - clean and nice showers. The tour itself was amazing - we got to have tango lessons and go to a live show, the walking tours are great - you learn a lot of history (but not in a boring way!) and get to see and try lots of argentina food/shops. You see great museums/an opera house/obelsic which are very pretty. We happened to go on a weekend and there was lots of arts/music to see too. My favourite day was the wetlands - you see caiman, capybaras, deer, armadillo, vultures, lots of butterflies/insects/birds of all shapes/colours and even some monkeys - up close too. There's one long bus journey but the bus itself is very nice - wide seats which recline and air con. Igazu falls was amazing - i recommend the boat ride where you get absolutely soaked but its very fun you also visit a local community which is interesting . In Brazil, headed to sugarloaf mountain - great for the views and we managed to see the carnival as it coincided with our tour - another fab thing our tour guide arranged! Fab food in both countries but the steaks in argentina were fantastic. 10/10 would recommend - especially if you add time on at the start/end to go explore elsewhere in these countries
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/09/2022
Eleanor - Traveled, April 2023
This was a fantastic holiday led by Gus, a very experienced leader. It exceeded our expectations about what we would see and experience.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/04/2023
Christine - Traveled, September 2023
The Argentina and Brazil trip was a great introduction to the culture and natural environment In these countries. Highlights were visiting the Iguazu Falls and seeing wildlife in the wetlands in Argentina. It was just a taster really so would inspire many travellers to go back.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/22/2023
Stefan - Traveled, July 2023
Th Argentina and Brazil Adventure tour was fantastic and we could not recommend it highly enough!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/03/2023
Rebecca - Traveled, May 2023
A jam-packed trip of the highlights in Argentina and Brazil! We were able to see a lot during this 10 day trip including a place that is a little more off the beaten path for international travelers. The trip had a good balance of scheduled activities and "free" time to explore or rest. The transports between each location were comfortable. Our Tour Leader, Tomas, was very personable and helpful throughout the whole trip including providing recommendations for dining and activities. He stayed organized throughout the trip and provided us with a clear itinerary for each day of the trip.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/12/2023
Neil - Traveled, April 2023
A great trip covering a diverse range of cultural and natural sites the Iguazú falls and sugarloaf mountain cable car
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/02/2023
Eleanor - Traveled, April 2023
This was a fantastic holiday led by Gus, a very experienced leader. It exceeded our expectations about what we would see and experience.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/04/2023
Brian - Traveled, April 2023
Excellent trip, Andres was a great leader, enthusiastic , knowledgeable and always looked after all members of the group. He provided excellent suggestions for meals and most often accompanied us in the evenings . Great trip and leader
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/20/2023
Helen - Traveled, July 2024
I cannot recommend this trip highly enough. Buenos Aires and Rio were amazing and Iguacu was spectacular. My highlight of the trip was the visit to the Ibera wetlands, where we saw foxes, deer, howler monkeys, caiman and capybara. Andres was a fantastic tour leader throughout.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/25/2024
Paul - Traveled, July 2024
This was an excellent trip: Andres our trip leader did a first-rate job of guiding us across South America, and the blend of animals, stunning landscapes, history, and culture was brilliant. Highly recommended!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/24/2024
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