Off-the-Beaten-Path Argentina & Uruguay - 7 Days

Highlights

• Taste malbec at several wineries along the Calamuchita Wine Road
• Go horseback riding at a traditional estancia near Córdoba
• In Buenos Aires, enjoy a typical Argentine meal while watching a tango show
• Wander the beachside cobblestone streets of Colonia del Sacramento in Uruguay

Brief Itinerary

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Córdoba (Argentina), Explore the City

Welcome to Argentina! Once you arrive at Ambrosio L V Taravella International Airport, your driver will pick you up and transfer you to your hotel in Córdoba, located in the center of the country. Surrounded by the Sierras de Córdoba, offering lofty mountain landscapes and various outdoor activities, the city is known for its colonial architecture, surrounding wine country, and lively festivals.

Once you settle in, head out to explore at your own pace. A great place to start is the UNESCO-listed Jesuit Block, which houses some of the city's most beautiful buildings. Wander through the charming streets of the Güemes neighborhood, stopping at trendy boutiques, eclectic cafés, and street murals. For outdoor relaxation, head to Sarmiento Park, an expansive urban park ideal for an afternoon of picnicking, paddle boating in the lake, or exploring the rose garden.

Day 2: Wine Tasting on the Calamuchita Wine Road

Today, take a day trip away from Córdoba through the Calamuchita Valley. On this guided tour, you'll wind your way through the picturesque valley on your way to the mountain town of La Cumbrecita. Forests and alpine views surround this pedestrian-only commune, full of charming buildings and tasty cafés. Continue the tour to Villa General Belgrano, a German town known for its beer, architecture, and gastronomy. 

On your way back to Córdoba, you'll stop at several famous wineries along the Calamuchita Wine Road. Sample common wine varieties made in the valley at several family-run tasting rooms. The characteristics of the valley's terroir promote distinctive biodynamic wines such as malbec and cabernet sauvignon.

Day 3: Horseback Riding at Candonga Estancia

In the morning, set off with your driver toward the countryside town of El Manzano to visit a typical ranch, Candonga Estancia. Here, you'll spend the day learning about the life of a gaúcho (Argentine cowboy) and the basics of horseback riding. Once you're comfortable on your horse, follow your guide around the paths and mountain roads of the ranch. Go for an exhilarating gallop (or a gentle trot) through the picturesque scenery, stopping for lunch at a small natural pool ideal for swimming. After a late afternoon snack, you'll be transferred back to Córdoba. 

Day 4: Fly to Buenos Aires, Tango Show at Café De Los Angelitos

Today, you'll fly from Córdoba to Argentina's capital, Buenos Aires, nicknamed the "Paris of South America" for its architecture, leafy boulevards, and vibrant culture. Upon arrival, a driver will be waiting to transfer you to your hotel in the city. Buenos Aires is known as the home of the tango—you might see a demonstration in one of the plazas as you get your first look at the city, but you'll also attend a tango show this evening during dinner at the iconic Café de los Angelitos.

Founded in 1890 as a coffee house, the famous restaurant has borne witness to more than one hundred years of Buenos Aires history, once a meeting point for compadritos (swaggerers) and malandras (scoundrels) and then the site of verbal duels of famous gaúchos. These days, you can enjoy a classic Argentine menu (along with wine) as you watch the dancers onstage. Learn about the beginnings of tango and its evolution during the show before returning to your hotel. 

Day 5: Ferry to Colonia del Sacramento (Uruguay), Walking Tour & Maté

Say adiós to Argentina and hop a one-hour ferry to the beautiful city of Colonia del Sacramento in Uruguay. The entire town is a UNESCO Heritage Site, and the streets are packed with history. After you arrive, join a local guide to tour the cobblestone lanes and discover sites such as the Portón de Campo (Old City Gate) and the pretty, historic avenue known as Calle de Los Suspiros (Street of Sighs). 

During the tour, you'll have the opportunity to taste maté, a traditional tea made from the leaves of the yerba maté plant. The tea is prepared in an ancient ritual practiced in Uruguay for generations. A local maté expert will teach you the basics of making tea and provide background on the drink's history. Sample different varieties and taste regional pastries to refuel during your walk, then return to the hotel, where you'll have the rest of the afternoon free. 

Day 6: Tour Jesuit Ruins & Carmelo's Wineries 

Take a day trip to the birthplace of wine in Uruguay at La Caléra de las Huérfanas National Monument, a former Jesuit mission-turned vineyard. Along with your guide, you'll explore ruins and well-kept grounds that date back to 1741. After learning about this important place in the history of Uruguayan wines, head to several wine tastings in the nearby Carmelo. 

Begin at the Bodega Cordano, a family-run winery dating back centuries. Enjoy a tour of the vineyards and production areas with the owners and a tasting of several of their signature wines. You can also buy wine and souvenirs at the on-site Almacén de la Capilla, a vintage grocery shop founded in 1855. 

Your next stop will be the Bodega El Legado, a boutique family-owned winery. Your winery visit includes a guided tour through the vineyards, wine cellar, and production area, followed by a wine tasting and lunch. Enjoy the three wines accompanied by a cheese and olive plate, then a typical asado (traditional Uruguayan barbecue). After the tours, you'll make the short hourlong trip back to Colonia del Sacramento for your last evening in Uruguay. 

Day 7: Walking Tour of Historic District, Transfer to Buenos Aires, Depart

Spend the morning wandering the cobblestones of Colonia del Sacramento, purchasing handcrafted souvenirs and enjoying the views before hopping back on the ferry to Buenos Aires. At the dock, your driver will be waiting to take you to Ezeiza International Airport for your departing flight. Buen viaje, wherever life takes you next!

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