Classic Argentina

Argentina

Culture

Tango, gauchos and Patagonia - the best of Argentina

14 days Ask us for pricing This is the price per person for a private tour (based on 2 people travelling) excluding international flights. Contact us for pricing for other group sizes including individuals.
Intro, Dates & Prices

Intro

Journey through colourful cultures and spectacular rugged landscapes as you discover the highlights of breath-taking Argentina. Be seduced by the beautiful historic architecture and sensuous tango dancing of Buenos Aires, before stepping out of the cosmopolitan bustle and into the untamed wilderness of Patagonia. Travel to El Chaltén and marvel at the majestic Mount Fitz Roy as you hike through dramatic mountain landscapes, then head to El Calafate to get up close to the vast and impressive Perito Moreno Glacier. Listen to the peaceful sounds of nature in the ancient forest of San Carlos de Bariloche, and experience the thunderous force of Iguazú Falls' 275 tumbling waterfalls. Finally, stay in a traditional "estancia" in San Antonio de Areco and discover the lifestyle of the hardy gaucho cowboys in the grassy plains of the wild Pampas. 

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

  • The sizzling Argentinian capital of Buenos Aires
  • Unforgettable tango performance at El Viejo Almacén
  • Hiking capital of Argentina, El Chaltén
  • The magnificent Perito Moreno Glacier
  • Beautiful lake district region surrounding San Carlos de Bariloche
  • Phenomenal Iguazú Falls
  • Gauchos and grasslands of the Pampas

Places Visited

Buenos Aires - El Chaltén - El Calafate - Perito Moreno Glacier - San Carlos de Bariloche - Iguazú Falls - The Pampas

What's Included

Arrival & departure transfers
Ground transport with driver
Domestic flights
Accommodation
Meals (refer to itinerary for meal plan)
English-speaking guides
Entrance fees to sites & parks

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Itinerary & Map
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Day 1 : Arrival in Buenos Aires

Arrive into Buenos Aires where you will be met by a Travel The Unknown representative and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to relax or explore Buenos Aires at your own pace.

Please note: your hotel room will be available from 3 p.m., but if you arrive earlier, you can store your luggage at the hotel until you check in.

Overnight in Hotel Bel Air, Buenos Aires , Superior Room

Meal plan: n/a

Stylish and sensuous, the Argentinian capital of Buenos Aires has a distinctly Parisian feel with wide boulevards and pavement cafés, but dig a little deeper and you will discover a city with a unique cultural identity. The city breathes to the rhythm of captivating tango beats and you’re never too far away from a parrilla (traditional Argentine steak house) – the perfect place to sample the local cuisine with a sumptuous glass of malbec.

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Day 2 : Buenos Aires: northern city tour and tango show

Enjoy a guided tour around northern Buenos Aires, beginning in the glamorous area of Recoleta. Visit the Recoleta Cemetery and its numerous surrounding parks. Drive to the district of Palermo and explore the design boutiques in the trendy neighbourhoods of Palermo Soho and Palermo Hollywood. Return to the hotel.

In the evening, you will be transferred to El Viejo Almacén tango house for a three-course meal and a show of traditional music, singing and dancing. Return to your hotel around midnight.

Overnight in Hotel Bel Air, Buenos Aires , Superior Room

Meal plan: Breakfast & dinner

Recoleta Cemetery was formed in 1732 around the convent and church, Our Lady of Pilar. Visitors can see elaborate marble mausoleums designed in a variety of architectural styles including Art Deco, Art Nouveau and Neo-Gothic. One of the most impressive tombs belongs to the former actress-turned-First Lady of Argentina, Eva Perón (also known as Evita) and the final resting places of several of Argentina's most prominent figures can be found amongst the 'streets' of tombs.

Palermo is Buenos Aires' largest neighbourhood, and one of its most trendy. With development in the area booming over the last 15 years, it is a prime location for new businesses; barely a week goes by without a new restaurant opening. Palermo Soho is the fashionable heart of Palermo, boasting streets lined with cafés and designer boutiques, while Palermo Hollywood is so called because of its high concentration of TV and film production studios.

El Viejo Almacén is one of the most authentic tango houses in Buenos Aires. Every night its doors open to welcome locals and visitors alike for an unforgettable evening of top-class tango performed by prominent Argentinian dancers.

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Day 3 : Buenos Aires: southern city tour

Today, enjoy a city tour of southern Buenos Aires, exploring the famous Avenida de Mayo and the important buildings surrounding the Plaza de Mayo, before visiting the Metropolitan Cathedral. Drive to the historical district of San Telmo and walk around the antique shops at Plaza Dorrego. Continue to the colourful area of La Boca and its famous Caminito street, lined with tango dancers and painters. Drive by the Puerto Madero area, enjoy the views from the Puente de la Mujer (Woman's Bridge) before returning to the hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure.

Overnight in Hotel Bel Air, Buenos Aires , Superior Room

Meal plan: Breakfast

The Plaza de Mayo is one of the main city squares in Buenos Aires. It was formed in 1884, and has since been the scene of some of the most momentous events in Argentinian history. There are many buildings of significance surrounding the square, including the Cabildo, the Casa Rosada and the Metropolitan Cathedral.

The Casa Rosada (Pink House) is the executive mansion and office of the President of Argentina and is officially known as the Casa de Gobierno (Government House). Located on the culturally and politically important Plaza de Mayo square, the building is famed for its pink colour, which has become an iconic symbol of Buenos Aires.

Dating back to the 17th century, San Telmo is the oldest neighbourhood in Buenos Aires. Once a poor area, it was first home to dockworkers and brickmakers. The establishment of the Parish of San Pedro Gonzalez Telmo in 1806 boosted the economy, with many mansions and imposing houses consequently built. Today, the area's history is evident in its cobblestone streets and colonial architecture, while the bohemian vibe and tango dancing in the plazas attract many tourists. In particular, visitors flock to Plaza Dorrego in San Telmo on Sundays for its vast, bustling antiques and flea market.

La Boca is a neighbourhood in the Argentinian capital of Buenos Aires. Many of the early settlers in La Boca originate from the Italian city of Genoa. The pedestrian street Caminito is famed for its tango performances, whilst colourful houses and Italian taverns provide an insight into the cultural history of La Boca.

The district of Puerto Madero lies along the Río de la Plata riverbank. It is considered one of the most stylish neighbourhoods in Buenos Aires, yet retains a sense of its history, which spans back over 100 years. In the late 19th century, the shallow waters of Río de la Plata prevented large cargo ships docking, so Puerto Madero was constructed to solve this problem. However, with even larger ships coming into use, the docks soon became obsolete and fell into disrepair. In recent years, the region has been redeveloped with an injection of culture and investment, leading it to become an elegant and exclusive part of the city.

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Day 4 : Buenos Aires - El Calafate - El Chaltén

In the morning, you will be transferred to the airport for your domestic flight to El Calafate. On arrival, you will be transferred by public coach to your hotel in El Chaltén (approximately 3.5 hours). The rest of the afternoon is free to spend at your leisure.

Please note: this transfer will be shared with other international travellers.

Overnight in Hostería Senderos, El Chaltén , Classic Room

Meal plan: Breakfast

Known as the hiking capital of Argentina, the colourful village of El Chaltén is a hub for backpackers and trekking enthusiasts alike. Located in the ruggedly beautiful Los Glaciares National Park, close to Argentina’s border with Chile, adventurous visitors come from afar to experience world-class trekking in the shadow of the looming Mount Fitz Roy. Please note there is only one ATM in El Chaltén, which is often out of order, so we recommend withdrawing cash before your arrival.

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Day 5 : El Chaltén: Trek to Museo Casa Madsen, afternoon at leisure

Today you will discover the amazing history of a pioneer of the Río de las Vueltas Valley, today known as El Chaltén. Become part of the Madsen family as you journey back in time. Visit the first house in El Chaltén, built by Andreas Madsen, a Dane who arrived in El Chaltén back in 1901 in order to work with Perito Pascasio Moreno, and discover the amazing stories about how challenging life was in the Patagonia region more than a century ago!

The house is located across the Río de las Vueltas (about a 30-minute walk) from El Chaltén town, where you will get great views of the Fitz Roy Mountain. After a pleasant walk we will enjoy tea or coffee with delicatessen in the Madsen living room. After the visit, walk back to El Chaltén.

The afternoon is at leisure to take advantage of the many self-guided walking trails in El Chaltén.

Overnight in Hostería Senderos, El Chaltén , Classic Room

Meal plan: Breakfast

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Day 6 : El Chaltén - El Calafate

In the morning, take the public coach to El Calafate (approximately 3.5 hours). On arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is free to spend at your leisure.

Please note: this transfer will be shared with other international travellers.

Overnight in Sierra Nevada, El Calafate , Standard Room

Meal plan: Breakfast

Heralded as the gateway to the magnificent Perito Moreno and Upsala Glaciers, El Calafate is often the first stop for visitors intent on discovering the wonders of Argentine Patagonia. Situated on the southern shore of Lago Argentino, the country’s largest freshwater lake, El Calafate was founded in the early 20th century and is a great base from which to explore the surrounding Patagonian steppe and Los Glaciares National Park.

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Day 7 : El Calafate: Perito Moreno Glacier

After breakfast, enjoy a full-day excursion to the Perito Moreno Glacier and admire the breath-taking views from the walking trails. Board your cruise ship at Bajo Las Sombras and sail across Lake Rico, passing beside icebergs that have detached from the front of the Perito Moreno Glacier, until you reach the Icebergs Channel where you will have a spectacular view of the glacier's high wall of ice.

Overnight in Sierra Nevada, El Calafate , Standard Room

Meal plan: Breakfast

Located in the Los Glaciares National Park, the magnificent Perito Moreno Glacier is one of the most famous geographical attractions in Argentina. The glacier spans 30 kilometres, appearing like a great field of ice between striking dark mountain peaks. It is one of the few glaciers in the Andes that is advancing as well as receding and is an awe-inspiring sight to behold.

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Day 8 : El Calafate - San Carlos de Bariloche

In the morning, you will be transferred to the airport for your domestic flight to San Carlos de Bariloche where, on arrival, you will be taken to your hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to relax or explore Bariloche at your own pace.

Overnight in Hotel Kenton Palace, San Carlos de Bariloche , Classic Room

Meal plan: Breakfast

Situated in the heart of northern Patagonia, the charming Swiss-style city of San Carlos de Bariloche (commonly known as Bariloche) is a nature lover’s dream. The town enjoys a privileged location on the shores of Lago Nahuel Huapi – with trout fishing and watersports aplenty – and the surrounding mountains provide ample opportunity for scenic walks, hiking and mountain biking. During the winter months, Bariloche transforms into the largest skiing resort in South America.

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Day 9 : San Carlos de Bariloche: Half-day scenic hike

Enjoy the stunning natural scenery on an easy hike along the Circuito Chico (approximately 4.5 hours), which will take you through an ancient native forest to beautiful views over the lakes and mountains, including the Catedral, López and Capilla peaks, and is an excellent place to learn about the flora and fauna of the Andean Patagonian forest. This tour includes a local beer tasting and a snack of smoked cold cuts (vegetarian options available upon request). The afternoon is at leisure.

Overnight in Hotel Kenton Palace, San Carlos de Bariloche , Classic Room

Meal plan: Breakfast

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Day 10 : San Carlos de Bariloche - Puerto Iguazú

In the morning, head to the airport for your connecting flights to Puerto Iguazú. On arrival, transfer to your hotel where the rest of the day is at your leisure.

Overnight in El Pueblito Iguazú, Puerto Iguazú , Master Room

Meal plan: Breakfast

The town of Puerto Iguazú lies on the Argentinian side of Iguazú Falls, looking across to Brazil and Paraguay. It sits at the confluence of the Paraná and Iguazú Rivers, just ten miles from the falls. The town has a relaxed atmosphere with plenty of dining options and is the perfect base from which to visit Iguazú Falls.

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Day 11 : Iguazú Falls: Guarani-Mbyá community visit and Iguazú Falls (Argentina side)

In the morning, enjoy a visit to the Indian village of Tekoa Yriapú to meet the Guarani-Mbyá ethnic group. Learn about their history, traditions and hunting techniques. End your visit in the village courtyard where you can browse the locally made handicrafts on sale. Continue to the Argentinean National Park and board a train to the upper falls circuit and the Garganta del Diablo ("Devil's Throat"). Marvel at the majestic falls from the viewpoint before walking to the beautiful Iguazu river canyon. Overnight in Iguazu.  

Note: An optional tour is available to take you through the jungle to the river banks, where you can board a boat and get up close to the base of the Iguazu falls.

Overnight in El Pueblito Iguazú, Puerto Iguazú , Master Room

Meal plan: Breakfast

Guarani-Mbya community is an indigenous community who live close to the Iguaçu National Park in Brazil. The area was only recently recovered in part by native locals after a long history of colonisation. The locals farm and raise animals on the land, and create and sell handicrafts to supplement their income.

Straddling the border between Argentina, Brazil and Paraguay and designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the phenomenal Iguazú Falls (Iguaçu in Portuguese) are a sight to behold. Forming the largest waterfall horseshoe in the world, the falls are set within dense Atlantic forest and are one of South America’s most impressive attractions.

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Day 12 : Puerto Iguazú - The Pampas

Transfer to the airport for your flight back to Buenos Aires. Upon arrival, you will be welcomed at the airport and taken to your "estancia" in San Antonio de Areco. The rest of the day is free to select from the optional included excursions at the estancia, such as horse riding, bird watching or tennis.

Overnight in El Ombú de Areco, The Pampas , Standard Room

Meal plan: Breakfast & dinner

The flat, fertile grasslands that cover almost a third of Argentina are known as the Pampas. Home to South America's original cowboy, the hardy 'gaucho', it is one of the largest and richest grazing areas in the world, with a mild climate and rich soil that make it the ideal environment for agriculture and farming. Unfortunately, constant grazing, cultivation and frequent fires have threatened the ecosystem of the Pampas, and it is now considered one of the world's most endangered habitats.

Nestled within the grasslands of the Pampas, the peaceful and picturesque town of San Antonio de Areco provides an insight into traditional gaucho life. Founded in the early 18th century, many gaucho traditions remain in the town, including silverwork and saddlery workshops, horseback demonstrations, and old 'pulperías' (gaucho bars). In November, gauchos from across the Pampas gather in the town for the Fiesta de la Tradición, parading down the historic streets on their horses.

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Day 13 : The Pampas: Optional included ranch activities

Today is free for you to take advantage of the optional included excursions available at the estancia, including horse riding or riding in a horse-drawn carriage, swimming, cycling and walking.

Overnight in El Ombú de Areco, The Pampas , Standard Room

Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

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Day 14 : Departure from Buenos Aires

At a suitable time, transfer to the international airport for your flight home.

Meal plan: Breakfast

Accommodation

Accommodation

All accommodation subject to availability. Final accommodation choices will be confirmed after booking.

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Hotel Bel Air

Buenos Aires (3 nights)

Hotel Bel Air is located in the Recoleta neighbourhood of central Buenos Aires, offering easy access to many of the city's main attractions. The hotel has an intricate and beautiful façade, and the 77 rooms offer simple, comfortable living with all modern amenities. Upgrades are available for those who desire more space and a balcony with city views. A buffet breakfast is served daily and the on-site Bisabis restaurant serves local and international cuisine. There is also a wine bar offering a wide selection of excellent Argentinian wines.

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Hostería Senderos

El Chaltén (2 nights)

With beautiful views of Mount Fitz Roy, Hostería Senderos offers comfortable and tranquil accommodation in El Chaltén. Inspired by Patagonian farmhouses from the 1920s, each of the 21 rooms is stylishly finished with parquet flooring and large windows offering hill views, while free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel. Horse riding and trekking tours can be arranged at the hotel, and guests can relax with a glass of Patagonian wine in the wine bar.
 

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Sierra Nevada

El Calafate (2 nights)

Situated on the main street of El Calafate, Sierra Nevada offers beautiful views of the Bahia Redonda and the Los Glaciares National Park. All rooms feature wooden beam ceilings and authentic local décor, offer garden, lake or mountain views, and come equipped with a TV, bathtub and heating. Facilities at the hotel include complimentary use of bikes, Wi-Fi, an on-site gym, charming garden and a lounge area in which to relax.

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Hotel Kenton Palace

San Carlos de Bariloche (2 nights)

Located in the heart of San Carlos de Bariloche, just a short walk from the picturesque Nahuel Huapi Lake, the Hotel Kenton Palace offers 72 comfortable rooms that come equipped with complimentary Wi-Fi, a mini bar, central heating and a safe. Facilities at the hotel include the on-site Araucaria Restaurant, a piano bar, spa and gym. Upper room categories at the Kenton Palace offer panoramic lake and city views.

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El Pueblito Iguazú

Puerto Iguazú (2 nights)

An eco-sustainable hotel in the heart of a private natural reserve that is home to an abundance of exotic flora and fauna, the peaceful El Pueblito Iguazú - Hotel Temático is where comfort meets nature. Housed in an historical Puerto Iguazú monument-style building, the hotel uses solar panel energy and supports local suppliers, as well containing stone and painting art, to complete its artistic yet progressive aesthetic. All 13 guest rooms come with spacious bathrooms, complimentary Wi-Fi and air conditioning, and the hotel has an outdoor swimming pool and on-site restaurant.

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El Ombú de Areco

The Pampas (2 nights)

Set in a 19th century colonial-style mansion within a 300-hectare ranch, El Ombú de Areco offers guests an authentic experience of historical Argentinian living. The hotel’s 9 en-suite rooms feature charming décor and furnishings, and come equipped with all modern amenities for a contemporary touch; additional hotel features include a large pool area and expansive gardens with a number of rivers and lagoons. Dine in the quaint hotel restaurant or enjoy a traditional Argentinian barbeque. Explore the ranch on horseback or by cart, or visit the many nearby attractions including the historic gaucho village of San Antonio de Areco.

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