Rio, Iguazú, Buenos Aires and Uruguay
Overview
- Duration: 14 days / 13 nights
- Departures: Private, any date
- Group size: Private, from 2 travellers
- Accommodation: Comfortable 3–4★ hotels
- Countries: Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay
A 14-day private journey through Brazil, Argentina and Uruguay: Rio's beaches and viewpoints, both sides of the Iguazú Falls, Buenos Aires, a ferry to historic Colonia, Montevideo and the Atlantic coast around Punta del Este.
This journey combines three countries without any high-altitude travel, making it a comfortable choice for couples, honeymooners and families. It begins in Rio de Janeiro, where granite peaks rise between beaches and forest, with time for the classic viewpoints as well as quieter neighbourhoods.
A flight takes you to the Iguazú Falls, a UNESCO-listed site shared by Brazil and Argentina. You see the panoramic view from the Brazilian side and walk the close-up trails on the Argentine side, including the platform over the Devil’s Throat. From there you fly to Buenos Aires for three nights of neighbourhoods, steak houses and tango, with the option of a day in the countryside.
The last leg crosses the Río de la Plata by ferry to Colonia del Sacramento, whose historic quarter is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You continue to Montevideo and then to the Atlantic coast near Punta del Este for two relaxed final nights. The pace is easy to moderate, with several free afternoons. Spring and autumn are especially pleasant across the whole route.
Day-by-day itinerary
You are met at the airport and transferred to your hotel near the beach. Spend the rest of the day on the promenade at Copacabana or Ipanema.
Overnight: Rio de Janeiro
A guided tour takes you up Corcovado to the statue of Christ the Redeemer and its views over the city. Later ride the cable cars up Sugarloaf Mountain, ideally for late-afternoon light.
Overnight: Rio de Janeiro · Meals: Breakfast
Explore the hillside neighbourhood of Santa Teresa, the Selarón Steps and the historic centre. In the afternoon walk in the Tijuca National Park, a large rainforest park within the city.
Overnight: Rio de Janeiro · Meals: Breakfast
A free day for the beach, the botanical garden or a samba evening in Lapa. Your specialist can suggest optional activities such as a hike up a coastal peak or a food tour.
Overnight: Rio de Janeiro · Meals: Breakfast
Fly to Foz do Iguaçu and visit the Brazilian side of the falls. A walkway along the gorge gives a sweeping panorama of the cascades.
Overnight: Foz do Iguaçu · Meals: Breakfast
Cross into Argentina for a full day in the Iguazú National Park. A small train and walkways take you over the rim to the Devil’s Throat and along the upper and lower trails.
Overnight: Puerto Iguazú · Meals: Breakfast
Fly to Buenos Aires and settle into your hotel. In the evening try a traditional parrilla for grilled beef.
Overnight: Buenos Aires · Meals: Breakfast
A guided tour covers Plaza de Mayo, San Telmo, La Boca and Recoleta and its cemetery. The evening is free for a tango show or a neighbourhood dance hall.
Overnight: Buenos Aires · Meals: Breakfast
Choose a day at a countryside estancia with lunch and gaucho traditions, or a boat trip through the channels of the Tigre delta. Return to the city in the late afternoon.
Overnight: Buenos Aires · Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Cross the Río de la Plata by ferry to Colonia. Walk the cobbled lanes of the historic quarter, the old city gate and the lighthouse.
Overnight: Colonia del Sacramento · Meals: Breakfast
Drive along the coast to Montevideo, Uruguay‘s relaxed capital. A guided walk covers the Ciudad Vieja, Plaza Independencia and the long riverside promenade.
Overnight: Montevideo · Meals: Breakfast
Stop at a winery in the Canelones area to taste Uruguay’s tannat wines before continuing east to Punta del Este. Settle in by the Atlantic.
Overnight: Punta del Este · Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Explore the peninsula, its beaches and the fishing village of José Ignacio, or simply relax. The evening is free for dinner by the sea.
Overnight: Punta del Este · Meals: Breakfast
Transfer to Montevideo airport for your onward flight, a drive of around one and a half to two hours.
Overnight: — · Meals: Breakfast
What’s included
- Accommodation as described, with daily breakfast
- Meals as indicated in the itinerary
- Private airport and road transfers
- Domestic flights within the itinerary
- Ferry from Buenos Aires to Colonia
- Guided visits to both sides of the Iguazú Falls
- Guided city tours in Rio, Buenos Aires and Montevideo
- Winery visit with tasting
Not included
- International flights
- Travel insurance
- Meals not listed in the itinerary
- Optional activities and evening shows
- Tips for guides and drivers
- National park entrance fees unless confirmed as included
Good to know
Sample itinerary: we adapt the route, hotels and dates to you and confirm everything in your written quote.
Domestic flights from Rio to Iguazú and from Iguazú to Buenos Aires, a ferry across the Río de la Plata, and private road transfers in Uruguay.
Frequently asked questions
Entry requirements differ by nationality and can change. Check your government’s travel advice and the official entry requirements for Brazil, Argentina and Uruguay well before booking.
Spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) offer mild weather across the route. Summer is hot and busy on the Uruguayan coast, while winter is cool in Buenos Aires and Montevideo but still pleasant in Rio.
Yes. There is no high altitude, transfers are short, and the waterfalls, beaches and estancia day appeal to most ages. Free afternoons can be adapted to children’s interests.
