From Rio de Janeiro to Buenos Aires

Your journey begins in Rio de Janeiro, famous for its Carnival. Known as the “Marvelous City,” Rio lives up to its reputation at every corner: over 50 km of white and golden sandy beaches, the largest urban forest in South America, and a vibrant street art scene. From Rio, you’ll head to Paraty, a picturesque coastal village. The cobblestone streets leading to the sea are car-free, and the best way to get around is by mountain bike. Another enchanting way to explore the hidden islands along this pristine coastline is by sailing on traditional schooners. From here, the real adventure through Brazil begins as you travel inland toward the Pantanal.

Spend a couple of days in the Pantanal, the world’s largest wetland. Guided tours and horseback rides take you through the grasslands and waterways, home to over 600 bird species, 350 types of fish—including piranhas—and numerous reptiles and mammals such as howler monkeys, giant otters, caimans, capybaras, and vibrant parrots. Next is Bonito, a base for ecotourism and exploring surrounding forests, waterfalls, lakes, and caves. The area is famous for its crystal-clear rivers and lakes, perfect for swimming and snorkeling among colorful fish. While trekking in the mountain forests, you may spot monkeys, alligators, and anacondas, or explore caves full of stalactites and stalagmites. Your route then takes you to the breathtaking Iguazú Falls, which form the natural border between Argentina, Paraguay, and Brazil. The lush surrounding rainforest offers numerous trails leading to hidden waterfalls, ideal for cooling off and spotting parrots, toucans, woodpeckers, and colorful plants. Optional activities here include rafting, helicopter flights, and mountain biking.

Next, you’ll head west, crossing into Paraguay to the capital city, Asunción. The city offers plenty to discover, including local venues, squares, museums, art galleries, and striking examples of architecture. The following stop is Trinidad, home to two of South America’s best-preserved Jesuit missions, now UNESCO World Heritage Sites. An optional excursion takes you to one of the missions to explore its ruins and learn about the Jesuits’ relationship with the Guaraní people.

Continuing south and crossing into Uruguay, you’ll visit Salto and the nearby Termas del Dayman before returning to the coast at Punta del Este. Situated at the tip of a peninsula, this modern city offers beautiful beaches, the famous ‘La Mano’ sculpture, and a bustling port with a fish market and cafés. Montevideo, the capital of Uruguay, hosts you for a couple of nights, where you can explore colonial and Art Deco buildings in the historic center, visit a theater or art museum, or taste traditional Uruguayan cuisine at Mercado del Puerto. Next is Colonia del Sacramento, a charming town on the banks of the Río de la Plata founded in the 17th century. The historic quarter, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, features charming old buildings, cobbled streets, tree-lined squares, colonial houses, the Basilica of the Santísimo Sacramento, and a 19th-century lighthouse with stunning views of the historic center. Finally, you’ll re-enter Argentina and reach Buenos Aires, the capital, where your journey concludes