Argentina in Luxury & Style

Day 1, Tue: Arrive Buenos Aires

Welcome to Argentina's capital, often referred to as the Paris of South America, a mosaic as varied and diverse as its culture. Built in the 19th Century, an era of plenty for the wealthy gaucho land barons of Argentina, this city of 10 million is a kaleidoscope of intimate places, events and interactions, each with a slightly different shade, shape, and character. Glass-sheathed skyscrapers cast their slender shadows over 19th century Victorian houses; tango bars hazed with the piquant tang of cigar smoke face dusty, treasure-filled antique shops across s the way; small, highly individualized neighborhoods, each proudly display its own characteristic colors and forms

Meeting services upon arrival and transfer to the Alvear Palace Hotel, Buenos Aires Signature Luxury Hotel, boasting magnificent architecture and exquisite decoration, combining European elegance and cutting-edge technology, offering an impeccable personalized service. Originally built in 1932, the refurbished hotel is strategically located in the heart of the fashionable neighborhood La Recoleta surrounded by extensive parks, wide avenues, and luxurious architecture in a classical style; where the best restaurants, cafes, antique shops and boutiques of Buenos Aires are found, with several of the main museums and cultural centers nearby. Past guests include Antonio Banderas, Donatella Versace, the emperor of Japan, and Robert Duvall and the list goes on.

Balance of day relax and get acquainted with Buenos Aires.

Overnight Alvear Palace Hotel

Day 2, Wed: Buenos Aires (Special City Tour, Dinner & Tango Show)

More European than South American in flavor, Buenos Aires boasts bustling streets, grand avenues, old-time cafes and stylish restaurants. It's a city of tragedy and elation; a vibrant, cosmopolitan capital where locals are renowned for their flair and cockiness, even in times of adversity. The city's neighborhoods are small and highly individualized each with its own characteristic colors and forms.

This morning we begin our indoctrination of Buenos Aires making our way along the 9th of July Avenue (Avenida 9 de Julio) with its eight lanes divided by small green squares with old leafy trees and enriched by sculptures and fountains, considered as widest boulevard in the world. We pass Plaza de la Republica with Buenos Aires' signature Obelisk projecting upwards as a symbol of the city. Next, we visit the picturesque and colorful port section of La Boca, a picturesque neighborhood at the mouth of the Riachuelo River where the city's first settlers landed; filled with Italian restaurants, and some streets, such as the Caminito, are lined with wooden houses painted in bright colors.

Next stop is at the famous Café Tortoni, the oldest Café house in Argentina and home to the artistic and intellectual capital of Buenos Aires since 1858. After coffee and delicious deserts. We continue along the Palermo District with its elegant residences framed by wide green areas; reaching finally the district of Recoleta, the chic, most sophisticated neighborhood in the city, home to the Recoleta Cemetery, a necropolis of elaborate mausoleums, including that of Eva Peron. Next, it's on to the modern district of Puerto Madero, a revitalized section of the city once an abandoned old dilapidated port now boasting elegant houses, offices, lofts, luxurious hotels and restaurants.

This evening will be a special treat as we step into the Buenos Aires night making our way to Esquina Carlos Gardel, with over 100-year history here we view the traditional Argentine Tango Show. Enjoy dinner sampling the famous Argentine beef followed by a show where we are mesmerized by sensual national dance...The Tango.
Overnight at the Alvear Palace Hotel. (B,D)

Day 3, Thu: Buenos Aires (Fiesta Gaucha)

Full day excursion along the famous Argentine rolling plains of the pampas, one of the most fertile natural prairies of the world, famous for its meat and cereal production, to visit to a typical "Estancia" (Argentine Ranch) for a "Fiesta Gaucha" (Barbecue Party) for a firsthand view of the Argentine "gaucho" (cowboy) who will demonstrate their "criollo" horsemanship. Here we have the opportunity to taste the delicious, world-renown Argentine meats along with great wines. When lunch is finished, we will enjoy a folk show where singers and dancers will perform typical folkloric dances. Later, you can stroll around the property, do some horseback riding or ride upon a horse and buggy or watch the "gauchos" performing their skills. A delicious tea typical of the area will be served until departure. Return to the hotel upon conclusion of this fun day in the countryside.
Overnight at the Alvear Palace Hotel. (B,L)

Day 4, Fri: Buenos Aires / Mendoza (City Tour)

Transfer the airport for the flight to Mendoza located at the foot of the Andes. Mendoza is a modern city with a storied past that charms visitors with its tree-lined avenues, handsome villas, adobe houses and, of course, its famous wineries. Though rainfall is slight, irrigation has turned the countryside into a green oasis of vineyards and fruit plantations. Famous for some of the best wines in the world there are numerous wine cellars (bodegas) where wine tasting is a popular activity.

Upon arrival we tour Mendoza, famous for its lovely streets and avenues full of trees and nice parks. The visit includes the Government House, San Martin Park, Independence Square surrounded by the Municipal Theatre and the Modern Art Museum and from there to Plaza Espana, Plaza del Castillo and then a stop at La Rosaleda, a wonderful rose garden with more than 4500 rose plants. The tour ends at Cerro de la Gloria where a monument commemorates the Crossing of the Andes Conducted by General Jose de San Martin during our fight for Independence.

Next, we transfer to Cavas Lodge, considered one of the most stylish places to stay in all Argentina. Cavas Wine Lodge is luxurious and hip and chic without being remotely pretentious. Set at the foothills of the Andes, Cavas Wine Lodge is situated in the wine-growing region of Mendoza. Nestled in a 35-acre vineyard the lodge is strategically located between top wineries and the stunning Andes Mountain range. The lodge boasts its own underground cellar with some 250 wines from the region, an open-air courtyard, a gym with a view of the Andes, a sauna and Jacuzzi and signature wine therapy spa treatments. There are also a slew of activities on offer from white water rafting and golfing to horseback riding and nature walks.
Overnight at the Cavas Lodge. (B,L,D)

Day 5, Sat 06: Mendoza (Wine Tour & Activities)

Cavas Lodge offers many activities for you to choose. From soft adventure, to wine visits by car, by bicycle or horseback. Below is a suggested day of wine visits and tasting.

This morning we begin a full robust day of visiting wineries along the Luján de Cuyo, also known as the Central Valley, accompanied by our expert guide. Located in the upper Mendoza valley, where the river is half-way through its journey from the Andes Mountains to the eastern plains, many Lujan de Cuyo vineyards sit at altitudes of around 1000m (3280ft). Malbec is successful in Lujan de Cuyo, but the appellation also produces good Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay and Torrontes. Most of the vineyards are on alluvial soils; sandy or stony surfaces on clay substrata. We spend the day meeting experts such as oenologists and agricultural engineers, as well as tasting a variety of wines that reflect the different philosophies, land, and varietals that inform each label.

First stop is Bodegas Catena Zapata, a winery that needs little introduction to most wine lovers. Credited with putting Argentine wines, especially high-altitude Malbec wine on the world map, Bodega Catena Zapata is a family owned winery. Nicole Catena arrived in Mendoza from Italy in 1898 and planted his first Malbec in 1902. His son Domingo grew the business whereby Catena family became one of the largest vineyard holders in Mendoza. Over the past 20 years, Nicolas and Laura Catena and their vineyard management team have worked tirelessly in the discovery, identification and development of key microclimates in the high-altitude wine country of Mendoza, Argentina. The in-depth study of these different microclimates led Nicolas to determine that the same varietal, and even the same clone, presented distinct aromatic and flavor profiles when cultivated in each of these unique microclimates. Implementing the age-old art of assemblage, he found that by blending these different lots of the same varietal, he could achieve a more complex wine. Blending different varietals, different lots and even different vintages is an art as old as winemaking itself. In Bordeaux, the blending of the famous five - Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Malbec - is a centuries old art. Each component is thought to add a level of complexity to the wine. After ample wine tasting in this famous winery including its dramatic architecture based on Mayan architecture and meant to evoke the unique New World terroir of Mendoza, we continue to Terrazas de los Andes Winery situated in the district of Pedriel, a region considered to be one of the best pedigrees for wine growing quality. Terrazas is the fine wines division of Moet & Chandon. In the late 1950s, Moët & Chandon, a subsidiary of LVMH, sent Renaud Poirier, its Oenology Director to Latin America to research the region's potential for world-class wine production. After traveling around the region, Poirier visited Luján de Cuyo, in Mendoza. Highly impressed by the local conditions for winemaking and the presence of excellent high elevation vineyards, Poirier and Moët & Chandon decided to set up its first ever vineyards outside France. After decades of experiencing with sparkling wines production, in 1999, Moët Hennessy Wine Estates and Bodegas Chandon Argentina opened Terrazas de los Andes Winery - a varietal still-wines initiative based on its emblematic high-elevation vineyards, fed by the Andes meltwater. We are greeted by the general manager Carlos Riquelme who will give us a tour of the winery, followed by wine tasting. Next a short drive to the Chandon Winery where after an orientation presentation and sparkling wine tasting we are treated to a sumptuous private lunch.

Next, we visit Bodega Luigi Bosca. Combining the traditional with the modern, Luigi Bosca is one of the most successful wineries in Argentina, known worldwide for its varietals. Established in 1901, the main building is reminiscent of an antique Dutch estate house and is a landmark for locals and tourists alike. The winery is owned by the Arizu family, the original founders. Winemaking is at the heart of the family. Generations have passed down the tradition, making wine with heartfelt passion. The winery has a visitor center which showcases all the wines the bodega produces. The truly beautiful ambience invites guests to stay and linger, spending time taking in the atmosphere, enjoying the wines, and the overall tranquility and charm the winery offers.

This evening a feast for the senses as we make our way for dinner at world famous - yes world famous - restaurant 1884 owned by one of Argentina's most famous chefs, Francis Mallman from the region of Patagonia. Considered a landmark restaurant in Argentina. Francis Mallman 1884's creator, is a culinary celebrity who insists on cooking outdoors in every type of weather - often up to his knees in water, snow, or sand, depending on the exotic location and the season. He is well known for his cast-iron skillets, passionate commitment to high-quality local ingredients, and bohemian, rustic gourmet style. Some people come to Mendoza just to eat at celebrity chef Francis Mallman's restaurant, inside the Romanesque Bodega Escorihuela -- known, among other things, for housing the biggest wine barrel in the province. With fine Argentine meats and fresh local produce, his carefully presented cuisine combines his Patagonian roots with his French culinary training. Dishes are prepared with matching local wine selections, with Malbec and Syrah topping the list. Return to Cavas Lodge for relaxation and overnight.
Overnight at the Cavas Lodge. (B,L,D)

Day 6, Sun: Mendoza (High Mountain Adventure)

Mendoza offers a great variety of adventure and natural activities. Situated among the foothills of the Andes Mountain Range, between two rivers, the Mendoza and Tunuyán, the lush valley of a city offers green spaces and high places.

For a break from the wine visits, today we may take an unforgettable excursion to the nearby Andes Mountains, offering a panorama of spectacular scenery courtesy of the impressive Mount Aconcagua, the highest peak in the Americas. Along our way we will visit the reservoir at Potrerillos and the town and Valley of Uspallata. The road from the summit to Uspallata is a breathtaking 17-mile drive. We continue Aconcagua National Park with breathtaking views created by occasional clouds painting shadows on some mountains and allowing sun to pour light on others. These curious rock formations were filmed for the dramatic setting of Seven Years in Tibet, starring Brad Pitt. The ultimate experience is reaching the base of Aconcagaua, the highest mountain in the Western Hemisphere, for views of the snow-capped mountain reflected in a small lake. There a refreshing short hike will stun you with a 360-degree view of the surrounding Andes. If weather permits, the excursion includes a gourmet picnic lunch at the base of Aconcagua complete with amazing views sure to be etched in your memery forever.

This evening another culinary adventure as we head towards the La Bourgogne Vistalba restaurant located in the startling new Carlos Pulenta winery in Vistalba. This restaurant may be the best one in Mendoza, and it certainly rivals any other in the country. Famed chef Jean-Paul Bondoux has trusted local Federico Zeigler with his signature blend of French techniques and local ingredients. The menu is incredibly creative (cold avocado soup with fennel and onions) and surprising (pumpkin and grapefruit ravioli in prawn broth). Fish of the day is served with watercress, couscous, and wasabi crisps; duck breast is prepared with chestnuts in a Malbec sauce. The wine list is exceptional -- don't miss the Vistalba Corte B blends, and don't be shy about asking your waiter or the friendly sommelier for suggestions. Return to the lodge for overnight.
Overnight at the Cavas Lodge. (B,L,D)

Day 7, Mon: Mendoza / Calafate - Cruise

Transfer to the airport for the flight to El Calafate, Argentina's coastal wildlife sanctuaries to a region of extreme natural beauty famed for pristine glaciers and alpine lakes in the high Andes. El Calafate, a small town located where the Santa Cruz plateau meets the Andes, is the gateway to the Perito Moreno Glacier.

Up until recently the classic packages had our clients stay at local hotels for approx. 3 nights in order to arrive, visit the Perito Moreno Glacier, highly unusual in that it is advancing, while most glaciers worldwide are retreating. The reason remains debated by glaciologists.

Nowadays we have the option to offer a cruise stay (rather than a land package). We propose spending 3 days on board the luxury cruise vessel Santa Cruz, to share with a small group of passengers the experience of seeking the "Spirit of the Glaciers". Walls of centuries-old deep blue ice almost 60 meters high, impressive icebergs, amazing Patagonian sunsets that paint the sky a reddish hue, and nights so dark that the Milky Way is reflected on the surface of the majestic Lake Argentino. With the huge windows fitted to its cabins and common areas, the Santa Cruz cruise vessel offers plenty of opportunities for contemplating the unique landscapes of Lake Argentino. The Spirit of the Glaciers includes time on dry land so that you can observe, interpret and come to understand the most surprising features of this unique place. This is a unique experience, based on the concept that the tranquility and warmth found on board making it possible to enjoy the force of nature in all its magnitude, but with the comforts of a luxury-style cruise.

This afternoon we board ng at the company's private dock "La Soledad" in Bahía Tranquila (Paraje Punta Bandera) and commence sailing to Bahia Alemana

Dinner and overnight at Puesto de las Vacas aboard the Santa Cruze. (B,L,D)

Day 8, Tue: El Calafate (Cruise Spegazzini and Upsala Glacier)

After breakfast, begin the day with a walk around Puesto de las Vacas. Stroll along the coast and potentially visit an old Pioneers Station. Afterwards, set sail towards the Spegazzini Glacier. Enjoy lunch as you marvel over the icy walls of the Spegazzini glacier with its face rising 135 meters above water level. Your next destination is the Upsala glacier which covers an entire valley and is one of the biggest in the National Park. It has an approximate extension of 765 km2 and a length of 52km. Afterwards, the vessel cruises to Toro Bay on the Mayo Sound for dinner and overnight. After dinner, enjoy activities organized by the crew or reflect upon your journey under a moon-lit night full of stars.

Overnight aboard the Santa Cruz. (B,L,D)

Day 9, Wed: El Calafate (Cruise Perito Moreno Glacier)

After breakfast, begin the day with a walk around Puesto de las Vacas. Stroll along the coast and potentially visit an old Pioneers Station. Afterwards, set sail towards the Spegazzini Glacier. Enjoy lunch as you marvel over the icy walls of the Spegazzini glacier with its face rising 135 meters above water level. Your next destination is the Upsala glacier which covers an entire valley and is one of the biggest in the National Park. It has an approximate extension of 765 km2 and a length of 52km. Afterwards, the vessel cruises to Toro Bay on the Mayo Sound for dinner and overnight. After dinner, enjoy activities organized by the crew or reflect upon your journey under a moon-lit night full of stars.

Overnight aboard the Santa Cruz. (B,L,D)

Day 10, Thu: Calafate / Iguassu Falls

After breakfast disembark for a hike in the Andean-Patagonian forest. The hike offers stunning views of the Mayo and Negro glaciers. Enjoy an exclusive visit to one of the refuges run by the Patagonian Continental Ice Field Institute, where so many explorers, adventurers and scientists have left their mark. Back on board, navigate through the Canal de los Témpanos towards the Perito Moreno glacier, with walls towering an impressive 60 meters. This glacier is constantly flowing forward and carving, which allows for a unique viewing and auditory experience. Later, you have a chance to walk in the National Park to experience the incredible beauty that surrounds you. End the tour by sailing back across the waters of Lake Argentino in the direction of La Soledad Private Port. Soak in the breathtaking views one final time before the cruise ends.

This afternoon we transfer to the airport for the flight to Iguassu Falls where Argentina and Brazil share borders. Here you will be treated to a sensational sound and light show brought to you courtesy of Mother Nature. A show with no intermissions - 275 separate waterfalls, spanning 2-miles, wider than Victoria, higher than Niagara and more magnificent than both.

Meeting services upon arrival and transfer to either the Belmond Das Cataratas Hotel (preferred if the clients willing to obtain Brazil visas), or the Iguazu Grand Resort Spa and Casino on Argentine side or possibly the Awasi Hotel on the Argentine side.
Overnight at selected hotel. (B)

Day 11, Fri: Iguassu Falls (Argentine Falls & Great Adventure Tour)

More than just a thundering water falls, Iguassu is also a national park of tropical forests home to more than 1,100 species of birds and mammals, with approx 2,000 species of plants, nearly the same number of butterflies, 100 species of mammals, and nearly 400 varieties of birds, including hummingbirds and toucans.

This morning we visit the Argentine side of the falls including the national park and the falls. Upon arrival to the park we walk the paths along lush tropical basin, over and under the splashing torrents of falling water. Beautiful flowers, ferns, tropical plants, butterflies and exotic birds add to the exciting experience of close contact with nature. A short train trip will take us to the pathways leading to the Devil's Throat, one of the most impressive points where 14 separate falls cascade down 350-foot cliff.

Next, we embark on the Great Adventure tour, a unique experience that combines the whole essence of the Iguassu National Park in one ride, a fabulous combination of nature and adventure. We first walk along boardwalks into the surrounding forest; then gain amazing, close-up views of the falls until we reach the river shore. Once there, we board zodiacs to start an exhilarating ride around the thundering falls, enjoying the myriad rainbows beside roaring San Martin Falls. Later we disembark on the Iguassu River shore where Rangers will escort us on a fascinating park ride, explaining the local habitat and pointing out exotic plant and animal species that still survive in the Atlantic Rainforest. After the tour return to the hotel.
Overnight at the Panoramic Hotel. (B)

Day 12, Sat: Iguassu Falls / Buenos Aires (Visit Argentine Side of Falls)

Even though 70% of the falls are located on the Argentinean side, most of them face the Brazilian side, rendering the Brazil side as "the picture-postcard" of Iguassu Falls, which is a good reason why your clients should visit the Brazilian side of the falls. So if they opt to visit Brazil side of the falls, we will (A) stay at the Das Cataratas Hotel, the only hotel inside the park, and (B) will probably take the walking guided walking tour to visit the Brazilian side of the falls offering the best vantage points to appreciate the wondrous spectacle the day we arrive Iguassu (switching the visits around.

This afternoon transfer to the hotel and fly back to Buenos Aires for one last night and a wonderful Sunday visit.
Overnight at the Alvear Palace Hotel. (B)

Day 13, Sun: Depart Buenos Aires (Special Buenos Aires Tour)

The good news is that today is Sunday, a grand opportunity to visit San Telmo to experience the colorful and historical side of the city and its famous San Telmo Antique Market, a favorite pastime of the Portenos (as the residents of the city are called) and tourists alike. San Telmo widely hailed as the most picturesque part of Buenos Aires, birthplace of the sultry tango, cobblestone streets and colonial buildings, boasting an array of antique shops and boutiques, tango parlors and cafes. In a departure from the sophistication that is Buenos Aires, here you'll experience the bohemian side of the city with its mimes, impersonators, musicians and the ubiquitous tango dancers offering free lessons to the least inhibited passersby. We will break for a late lunch before heading back to the hotel and get ready to transfer out to the airport for the flight back home. (B,L)

Remarks

Not included: Airport departure taxes, meals unless included in the itinerary, beverages, travel insurance, gratuities of any kind, or items of person nature.

To visit the Brazil side of Iguassu U.S. Citizens require Brazilian visa.

Tour rate quoted upon request and vary based on season and hotels selected.

Other hotels available upon request.

This itinerary may be customized, please inquire.

We can provide land only and or air and land packages.