Luxury Argentina Tour from Waterfalls to Glaciers - 14 Days

Highlights

• Stay in an elegant neighborhood in Buenos Aires and explore art museums
• Experience the majesty of Iguazú Falls via foot, bike, kayak, and helicopter
• Kayak along the scenic Lago Nahuel Huapi and visit Perito Moreno Glacier
• Take a day trip to Isla Victoria and learn how to cook over an open flame

Brief Itinerary

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Buenos Aires, Dinner at Don Julio

Welcome to Argentina! South America's second-largest country never fails to impress. From the European-inspired streets of its grand capital of Buenos Aires to its rich tango and frontier culture, there's plenty of captivating history here. Culture is just one aspect—Argentina is also filled from north to south with awe-inspiring natural wonders, from waterfalls in the north to the glaciers and mountains in the south. You'll experience all of it and more in due time.

This luxury adventure begins with your arrival in Buenos Aires. From the airport, your driver will take you to Algodon Mansion. Located in Recoleta (the city's most sophisticated neighborhood), this 5-star boutique hotel occupies a former aristocratic manor with rooms converted into impeccably designed suites. The bathrooms (which feature Calcatta marble) are equipped with French tubs perfect for a long soak to take the edge off the flight.

Spend the rest of the day enjoying the hotel amenities. If you like, you can head to the rooftop pool and bar for a dip and to sample fine wines from the hotel's sister winery in Mendoza, Argentina's premier viticulture region. Later in the evening, you'll see for yourself what makes Argentine beef the best in the world with dinner at Don Julio, one of the finest parrillas (steakhouses) in the country. 

Day 2: Buenos City Tour, Tango Lesson in La Boca

Rise and shine! You're off to see some of Buenos Aires's most famous sights on a city tour focusing on the city's north. Meet your guide in Retiro, which is famous for its historic plazas. Do some window shopping as you stroll the boutiques on Avenida Alvear back to Recoleta and its world-famous cemetery. Amid the grand mausoleums, which inter some of Argentina's most noteworthy historical figures, one grave stands out: Eva (Evita) Peron's. The tour finishes in the trendy Palermo neighborhood at expansive parks designed by renowned landscape architect Charles Thays.

Take some time to relax in the afternoon, then head to the La Boca neighborhood. Located in Buenos Aires' south, this is the city's original port. It was here in the 19th century that newly arriving immigrants created a musical style that merged the country dances of Spain with other influences, and the result was called "tango." After a stroll down colorful Caminito Street, you'll visit a conventillo—a historic tenement tenant house—to learn the art and passion of this dance under the guidance of an expert instructor.

Day 3: Boat Trip to Tigre, Lunch at Il Novo

Today, you'll get to visit something of a hidden gem just outside of Buenos Aires. In the morning, you'll meet your private guide and transfer to the pier for a boat ride up the mighty Río de la Plata to the point where it converges with the Paraña River Delta. This region, located about an hour north of Buenos Aires, is comprised of a series of islands and waterfront communities.

There, you'll enter a network of freshwater canals, eventually arriving at Tigre, a Venetian-style village whose small-town atmosphere stands in stark contrast to Buenos Aires' bustling energy. During a day tour, you'll stroll the waterfront, stop in at the cafés and bistros, visit the museums, and experience this riverside gem any way you like.

Lunch will be at Il Novo Maria del Luján, a white-tablecloth restaurant overlooking the river that serves seafood and steaks. The restaurant's opulent building is a historic landmark that also houses Tigre's Museum of Fine Arts. After eating, continue exploring Tigre for a couple more hours before transferring back to Buenos Aires by boat.

Day 4: Fly to Puerto Iguazú, Helicopter Tour & Brazilian Dinner

Say goodbye to the big city, as this morning, you're off to Argentina's tropical north. It's a two-hour flight from Buenos Aires to the town of Puerto Iguazú, in Misiones Province. The city is primarily a hub for excursions to nearby Iguazú Falls, located at the tri-borders of Paraguay, Brazil, and Argentina. Apart from Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, this is the largest waterfall system in the world.

You'll stay close to the action, as upon arrival, you'll meet your private driver for the ride into Iguazú Falls National Park and your hotel, Gran Meliá Iguazú. Surrounded by lush tropical forest with panoramic views of the falls, this 5-star hotel offers more than just a prime location. The tastefully decorated rooms feature king beds with high thread-count sheets, and the Merkado restaurant offers a globe-trotting menu of haute cuisine celebrating everything from Argentine beef to Mediterranean pasta. Don't miss the hotel's infinity pool, which is large enough to accommodate a small army.

After checking in, transfer to a launchpad for an adventurous introduction to Iguazú. On a 10-minute helicopter flight, you'll soar directly over the falls, enjoying prime vantage points to appreciate this natural wonder. A bird's-eye view is the best way to see the falls, as they span an impressive 1.7 miles (2.7 km) and are 269 feet (82 m) at their highest. Later in the evening, hop across the border to the Brazilian city of Foz do Iguaçu. Here, you'll enjoy a special six-course dinner prepared by a private chef that celebrates regional Brazilian cuisine, which includes a caipirinha cocktail!

Day 5: Full-Day Waterfall Tour

Iguazú Falls straddles both Argentina and Brazil, and this morning, you'll embark on a scenic tour of the Argentine side. Meet your bilingual guide and transfer to a forest trail, which you'll hike until you reach the falls. As you go, the guide will point out some exotic animals in the park, including coatis, capuchin monkeys, and various birds like antbirds, toucans, manakins, and parrots.

Continue hiking along two-tiered circuit trails by the falls. The lower trail runs approximately 0.6 miles (1.3 km) and will take you closest to the falls on the Argentine side (prepare to get wet!). One highlight is traversing the boardwalk at the top of Iguazú to the famous Garganta del Diablo (Devil's Throat), one of Iguazú's largest cascades. From a viewing area, you can peer over the edge and see the thundering falls plunge 269 feet (82 m) to the river below (an experience not for the faint of heart). At the end of the tour, a driver will pick you up and take you back to your hotel.

Day 6: Biking & Kayaking in Iguazú

Not only will you get to hike around Iguazú Falls during your time here, but today, you'll also see it by kayak and bicycle. Meet your guide in the morning and hop on a mountain bike for a ride deep into the wilds of Iguazú National Park. The route you'll follow will take you on a dusty road flanked by jungle, and keep an eye out for tropical birds, like toucans, in the trees. Upon arrival at the Río Iguazú, you'll break for a picnic breakfast with plenty of fresh fruit.

Once you've eaten, you'll leave the bike behind and hop in a kayak for an exciting ride downstream. After about two scenic hours of paddling, you'll reach the Surucuá Reserve. Here, you'll get on another bike and embark on a 3.7-mile (6 km) circuit along a path overlooking the river. As you go, admire tropical flora like palo rosa trees, palmitos, and native bamboo. Stop for a restful lunch before transferring back to your hotel by vehicle and spend the rest of the day relaxing.

Day 7: Fly to Bariloche, Dinner with a Local Family

Wake up early because you've got a big travel day ahead. In the morning, you'll transfer to the airport and catch a connecting flight (likely in Buenos Aires) to Bariloche. Located at the northern edge of Patagonia in Argentina's gorgeous Lake District, this city lies on the shores of the expansive Lago Nahuel Huapi—an Indigenous name that translates to "Jaguar Island." Bariloche was founded by Swiss immigrants in 1902, and many vestiges of that culture remain, particularly in the chalet-style architecture and chocolate shops typical in the city.

From the airport, you'll transfer outside the city to Hotel Llao Llao. Sitting on a small peninsula overlooking the lake, the 5-star Llao Llao is not only the finest hotel in the Lake District; it's one of the finest hotels in all of Argentina. The luxurious Swiss-chalet-inspired architecture is matched only by its interior layout, featuring elegant rooms and suites with lake views. The hotel offers two restaurants serving gourmet Patagonian and Argentine cuisine, and when you arrive, you can take advantage of Llao Llao's famously opulent afternoon tea service or play a round at its 18-hole golf course. 

When evening arrives, you'll transfer to the home of a local family to experience true Patagonian hospitality. Your friendly hosts will open their doors for a classic meal in a familial atmosphere. Not only will you break bread with your new friends, but you'll spend the first part of the evening learning some cooking tricks from them as well. Later, everyone will sit down to a meal of mouthwatering Patagonian fare, like a roast lamb—though vegetarian options are available too. And you can bet that you'll enjoy the meal with a glass or two of fine Argentine malbec.

Day 8: Nahuel Huapi Kayaking & Nature Hike

The adventures in Argentina's great outdoors begin this morning with a private transfer to López Bay. There, on the lakeshore, you'll grab a paddle and hop in a kayak for a ride around Nahuel Huapi. Marvel at views of the surrounding snowcapped peaks as you glide across the lake's glassy waters. After about an hour and a half, you'll disembark at a secluded spot to enjoy a delicious picnic lunch accompanied by Argentine wine and a tasty dessert.

After eating, continue paddling to another destination on the lakeshore, where you'll find a trailhead. Then begin a brisk 2.5-hour hike up to the Brazo Tristeza viewpoint, which features Instragrammable vistas over the lake, its islands, and the peak of Cerro Tronador. Spend some time admiring the views before hiking back to the trailhead and returning to your hotel. 

Day 9: Day Trip to Isla Victoria, Open-Fire Cooking Class

Get ready for a private excursion to some of the most incredible natural wonders in the entire Lake District. In the morning, you'll travel 30 minutes from Bariloche to Puerto Pañuelo, where you'll hop on a catamaran cruise bound for Isla Victoria. This is a little island located on the northern end of the lake and filled with unique flora. One example is an almost mythical arrayán (Chilean myrtle) forest, which is considered the last in the world. 

On a hike around the island, you'll pass other native trees like conifers and Antarctic beeches, some of which are over 600 years old. The nature trails will take you to secluded pebble beaches, where you can gaze out at the glassy, crystalline waters of Nahuel Huapi. After a couple of hours enjoying Isla Victoria, you'll transfer back to Bariloche.

Later, transfer to a family farm and meet the owner, Lucas Mallmann, who will be your chef/guide for today's cooking workshop. Having trained under the eye of his uncle Francis Mallmann (the most famous chef in Argentina), Lucas has mastered the art of open-fire cooking. There, in the great outdoors, he'll lead you through the entire process of cooking over an open flame, from building the fire to roasting meat on the grill and in cast-iron pans. At the end of the experience, everyone will sit down for dinner paired with fine Argentine wine. Later, you'll return to your hotel.

Day 10: Fly to El Calafate, Dinner at Rancho Aparte

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for the two-hour flight deeper into Patagonia and El Calafate. Sitting on the shores of Lago Argentino, this town is the main base for trips into the famous Los Glaciares National Park and one of its star attractions, Perito Moreno Glacier.

Upon arrival at the airport, your driver will transfer you west of town to EOLO. Also known as "Patagonia's Spirit," this 4-star ranch-style accommodation enjoys a privileged location on the wild Patagonian frontier. EOLO is the place to come to experience Patagonia in a secluded setting, as it focuses on understated luxury and excursions/adventures into the surrounding wilderness. Rugged country aside, guests here can enjoy gourmet dining amid panoramic views and sublimely restful sleep in elegant rooms decorated with antique furniture.

After dropping off your bags, you'll return to town for a dining experience celebrating rustic yet gourmet Patagonian cuisine in all its glory. Take a seat at Rancho Aparte, a Patagonian ranch home converted into a closed-door restaurant where guests are treated to home-cooked meals from fixed menus. Highlights include regional specialties like roast Patagonian lamb and goulash with gnocchi pasta, all prepared with organic ingredients from local farms. Of course, the menu is paired with some of the finest wines in Patagonia and throughout Argentina.

Day 11: Perito Moreno Glacier Hiking & Boat Tour

Wake up early and embark on a full-day adventure into Los Glaciares National Park. Meet your driver in the morning and transfer about west to Perito Moreno. It's a scenic 1.5-hour drive during which you'll pass natural landmarks like Redonda Bay, home to a variety of exotic waterbirds, including black-necked swans and flamingoes.

Continue to the national park's entrance, where you'll be treated to your first glimpses of Perito Moreno. This expansive glacier flows down from the Andes over the turquoise waters of Lago Argentino, ending in a great wall that curves around the lake. Spend 1-3 hours exploring the boardwalks and snapping photos of the glacier from different vantage points. If you're lucky, you'll witness "calving"—an event where massive portions of the glacier wall break off and crash into the icy waters below.

After lunch, you'll see Perito Moreno up close as you board a boat and cruise over to the massive ice walls on the glacier's southern face. At points, these walls reach 230 feet (70 m) high. After marveling at Perito Moreno and snapping more photos, you'll return to the pier and transfer back to El Calafate.

Day 12: Safari on the Patagonia Steppe

Enjoy a thrilling 4WD adventure when you meet your driver for a half-day safari on the famous Patagonian steppe. This vast, arid expanse of flatlands has seen its fair share of travelers, artists, adventurers, and tourists over the centuries. They're drawn to its quiet emptiness and rugged peacefulness, and you might get hooked, too.

Besides cruising the scenic desert terrain, you'll also spot regional wildlife, like condors, foxes, and guanacos (a type of llama). You'll also travel to Estancia 25 de Mayo, a nature reserve and heritage area occupying 42,000 acres of (17,000 ha) Patagonian wilderness. Famous for its sheep ranches and paleontological finds, you'll learn about the area's pioneer history and rich fossil sites. Afterward, you'll return to your hotel.

Day 13: Fly to Buenos Aires, Optional Activities

Say goodbye to Patagonia as you transfer to the airport this morning for the three-hour flight back to Buenos Aires. Once there, you'll return to Recoleta and Algodon Mansion. You'll have the rest of the day free to relax and enjoy the hotel amenities. If you like, head out on a self-guided walking tour of the downtown area. There, you'll find famous landmarks like the Obelisco monument and Teatro Colón, a dazzling neoclassical opera house.

Day 14: Art Museum Tour, Depart Buenos Aires

Wrap up your grand Argentina adventure with a bit of culture as you embark on guided tours of two fine museums. First is the National Museum of Fine Arts (MNBA). Located just a few blocks from your hotel in Recoleta, it houses a vast collection of 11,000 pieces, including canvases, sculptures, tapestries, engravings, drawings, and more. It also features a small but precious European art collection, with works by Corot, Manet, Boudin, Cézanne, Renoir, and Rodin.

Later, you'll transfer to Palermo to visit the state-of-the-art Latin American Art Museum of Buenos Aires (MALBA). The modern space is devoted to the collection, conservation, study, and exhibition of Latin American art from the early 20th century to the present. Artists in the permanent exhibition include Frida Kahlo, Diego Rivera, Antonio Berni, Pedro Figari, Xul Solar, and Guillermo Kuitca. At the end of the tour, your driver will transfer you to the airport, where you'll catch your flight home. Adiós!

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