2026 Cities of South America Tour

Today we fly to Santiago, crossing the international dateline en route, arriving mid afternoon of the same day. We are met and transferred to our hotel for a 3 night stay. This evening, we have a welcome dinner at a local restaurant.

This morning, we enjoy a sightseeing tour of the city. We begin with a visit to the historic downtown, where the city’s central square (Plaza de Armas) stands out as the kilometer zero and nerve center of the capital, marking the starting point of Santiago’s construction during the colonial era. Next, we will visit the civic district, home to ministerial buildings and the presidential palace, La Moneda. Afterward, we will enjoy an impressive panoramic view from San Cristóbal Hill, which we will access via funicular. From here, we can admire part of the Andean foothills surrounding the capital. We will then head to the eastern district, where we will see the city’s modern side and its striking architectural contrasts.  Enjoy dinner at the hotel.

After breakfast we depart towards the Casablanca Valle known mainly for the great production of Chilean wines, namely the Sauvignon Blanc, among others. We visit Veramonte Vineyard, characterized by following organic and sustainable practices. After the tour and wine tasting in Veramonte, we continue to Valparaíso (Chile’s main port), declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, due to its colourful constructions that decorate the hills and provide the city with a characteristic architecture and unique identity. Here we will visit the main attractions of the city. Continue to Viña del Mar, known as “The Garden City”, before we return to the city.

The morning, we will be transferred back to Santiago Airport for our flight to Rio de Janeiro.  On arrival we will be met and transferred to our hotel for a 3-night stay. Tonight, we have dinner at a local restaurant.

Today we get to experience the vibrant heart of Rio de Janeiro. We will take a walk though the city, which gives visitors a feeling for the legends around downtown Rio’s narrow streets and old historical buildings. Next we will visit the famous landmark of Rio de Janeiro, the extraordinarily decorated, vibrant and impressive Escadaria Selarón, a staircase covered in more than 2,000 pieces of colourful tiles, mirrors, and ceramics stairs. After a stop for lunch, we head to Santa Teresa, one of Rio’s oldest neighborhoods. It offers majestic views of Rio’s main attractions and is considered the Bohemian section of Rio de Janeiro.

After breakfast, we visit the city’s most famous landmarks and see the natural beauty of Rio de Janeiro from above. First off, we embark on a comfortable train that ascends the mountain, where the statue of Christ the Redeemer is located 2,300 ft above sea level. The Christ statue, known as the “wonder of Rio,” was elected one of the 7 “New Wonders of the World.” Enjoy the most amazing views from the top. After stopping for a bite to eat, we catch the cable car to the summit of the famous “Sugarloaf” for even more spectacular views of the bay. This evening, we attend the Roxy Dinner Show – an immersive journey through Brazil’s traditions, told through music, dance, poetry, and visual art. Set in the historic Roxy Cinema in Copacabana.

Today we say farewell to Rio as we return to the airport and join our morning flight to Iguassu (Brazil). On arrival, we will visit the stunning Falls from the Brazilian side. The Iguassu River splits into 275 amazing waterfalls, one of the most majestic spectacles in the world. The virgin jungle of the national park surrounds the deep “Garganta del Diablo” (Devils Throat), a confluence of rapids falling straight down. Spray rises over 30 metres from the bottom (hidden by the mist) and countless rainbows are threaded under the sun. Butterflies and tropical birds fly over the falls.  After our tour, we cross the border into Argentine and transfer to our hotel for 2 nights. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.

Our day combines both adventure and nature as we experience the breathtaking beauty of the Argentine side of Iguazú Falls. We begin our journey by exploring the extensive network of walkways and trails in Iguazú National Park, getting up close to the awe-inspiring cascades from multiple angles – including the iconic Devil’s Throat. Then, it is time for the Gran Aventura, an exhilarating excursion that blends a jungle truck ride through the subtropical rainforest with a thrilling boat ride that takes you right beneath the powerful falls. Tonight we have dinner at the Argentine Experience where we get to try our hand at making our own empanadas!

This morning, we transfer to Iguazu Falls Airport for our flight to Buenos Aires. We are met on arrival and transferred to our hotel for a 4-night stay. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.

The heart of the city now, as in the colonial days, is the Plaza de Mayo with the historic Cabildo, the Town Hall where the movement for independence from Spain was first planned, the pink “Casa Rosada” (Presidential Palace), the Municipalidad (City Hall) and the Cathedral where San Martin, the father of Argentina’s struggle for independence, is buried. This morning’s sightseeing tour of South America’s largest metropolis will show us many of the highlights of Buenos Aires. We see Government House, the Casa Rosada, the Cathedral at the site of the first church built in Buenos Aires, Columbus Square, Boca Square, plus many more places of interest in the “Paris of the Americas”. Afternoon is at leisure.  This evening, we are transferred to one of the best Tango Houses in Buenos Aries for an evening dinner and tango show. After dinner, watch the experts in a brilliant Tango performance.  The Tango started at the end of the last century from a mixture of various rhythms which were danced in the poorer areas. At the beginning, it was danced by pairs of men to the music of the flute, the violin and the guitar.

Today, we travel to the outskirts of Buenos Aires for our “Gaucho” excursion. It allows us the opportunity to admire the traditional dances and enjoy the songs, and the food, of the Argentinian Gaucho (cowboy). The venue is a beautiful country residence at an old ranch, located on the fringe of the city.

Spend your day at leisure in this incredible city bursting with energy, culture and charm.

Tonight, we are in for a treat, dinning at Fogón Asado, where the best Argentine ingredients are presented through a unique fireside dining experience. Crafted by a collective of seasoned and passionate restaurateurs, Fogón is more than a culinary destination – it’s a celebration of heritage and Argentine grass-fed beef. Fogón is proud to be included in the Michelin Guide 2024.

This morning, we return to Buenos Aires airport for our flight to Mendoza. On arrival we will be met and transferred to our hotel for 2 nights. This beautiful city is the fourth largest metropolitan area in the country, and it is surrounded by the largest wine producing area in Latin America. As one of nine cities worldwide in the network of Great Capitals of Wine, Mendoza offers the perfect destination to enjoy the best Argentinean wine while exploring a few of the hundred wineries and dazzling landscapes of this region.   Tonight enjoy dinner at a local restaurant

Today we head towards the outskirts of town to the vineyard regions where we will spend our day. Mendoza is Argentina’s greatest wine producing region and we will be able to taste some of the regions best wines. Enjoy lunch at Trivento Winery, a local favourite.

This morning, we join the short flight to the southern Argentine resort town of Bariloche. On arrival, we are met and transferred to our hotel for a 2-night stay. Time at leisure, before we enjoy dinner at a local restaurant tonight.

Today is about nature and history as we head along the classic circuit of San Carlos de Bariloche. While visiting stunning viewpoints of the area such as Campanario Hill and Llao-Llao Hotel, our guide will explain how this little mountain village has become one of the most attractive tourist towns in Patagonia. Take in the beauty of Moreno and Nahuel Huapi lakes, as well as Lopez and Capilla mountains. We’ll take an easy nature-oriented walk through the Llao-Llao Nature Park to discover to discover an impressive forest of Arrayanes trees with the tour finishing with a visit to a local microbrewery for lunch, including beer tasting.

Depart early for a long day for a unique crossing from Argentina to Chile, sailing through The Andes Mountains across three beautiful lakes. This trip will take you through the most colourful region of the Patagonia. Depart by bus to Puerto Pañuelo, passing by Lake Nahuel Huapi. Where you will board your boat for the crossing.

Arrive Puerto Varis where you will be met and transferred to your hotel in Puerto Montt.

This morning, we join our direct flight north to the Chilean capital, Santiago. On arrival, we are met and transferred to our hotel for an overnight stay. We enjoy a farewell dinner tonight for our last night in Chile.

After breakfast and check out, we transfer back to Santiago Airport for our return flight to Auckland. We cross the international dateline enroute.

We arrive Auckland mid-evening.

Spend the day at leisure before you check in at 6pm onboard Skorpios, for your pre night before the cruise departs that next day. Enjoy a welcome cocktail and dinner with wine and an open bar.

Enjoy breakfast onboard before you set sail around midday from Puerto Montt, gliding through the tranquil waters of the Llanquihue Archipelago with views of the fishing town of Calbuco. By late afternoon, arrive at Quemchi, a charming village on the island of Chiloé. Step ashore in small boats to wander cobbled streets lined with colourful houses, browse local handicrafts, and visit the museum dedicated to famed Chilean author Francisco Coloane. As evening falls, continue south along the Chiloé Archipelago, crossing the Gulf of Corcovado under the starlit Patagonian sky.

Awaken to spectacular views as you cruise through the Moraleda and Ferronave Channels.
Late in the morning, reach the fishing village of Puerto Aguirre, nestled amidst the lush greenery of the Chonos Archipelago. A guided walk reveals the rhythms of local life and the beauty of the surrounding rainforest, culminating in a stunning lookout view. In the afternoon, continue your voyage to Islote Barrientos, where small boats take you close to dramatic rock formations teeming with seabirds — often joined by playful South American fur seals.
As evening settles, sail southward toward Caleta Quesahuen or Punta Leopardos, just 20 nautical miles from the awe-inspiring San Rafael Glacier.

Early morning brings the promise of one of Patagonia’s most remarkable sights. Cruise along the Tempanos Channel toward the Laguna San Rafael, anchoring just two kilometers from the immense glacier.  Weather permitting, venture out by smaller boats among the radiant blue and turquoise icebergs, witnessing the raw power and serenity of nature up close. In the afternoon, the ship approaches the glacier’s face for a final, unforgettable view before setting course for the peaceful Quitralco Fjord.

Wake to the serenity of Quitralco Fjord, a secluded haven surrounded by dense temperate rainforest. After breakfast, indulge in the natural hot springs, with pools ranging from 32°C to 38°C — the perfect way to relax amidst pristine Patagonian beauty. Enjoy guided nature walks along the forest trails or, weather permitting, take a motorboat excursion deeper into the fjord’s calm waters. In the late afternoon, the Skorpios sets sail once again, navigating north through the Moraleda and Pérez Norte Channels.

During the early morning hours, cross the Leucayec Channel and the Gulf of Corcovado, where lucky travellers may spot majestic humpback or blue whales. By midmorning, arrive at Islote Conejos, a small island alive with Magellanic penguins and other seabirds — a delightful opportunity for wildlife viewing. Continue sailing through the picturesque islands of Lemuy and Chelín, arriving in Dalcahue in the afternoon. Here, you can browse the vibrant handicraft market, visit the town’s UNESCO-listed wooden church, or stroll along the waterfront promenade.
As night falls, the journey concludes in celebration with a Farewell Party and Captain’s Dinner — a fitting finale to an extraordinary Patagonian voyage.

Enjoy breakfast on board as the Skorpios returns to Puerto Montt. After disembarking around 9am, you will be transferred to Puerto Montt airport for your flight back to Santiago. Please note, your onward flight to Auckland (via Sydney), departs in the early hours of Friday 16 October (1.30am departure). If you would like us to assist in booking a day room for you near the airport, or additional sightseeing/transfers in Santiago, this can be arranged for an additional cost.

Your flight to Auckland (via Sydney) departs at 1.30am

Arrival in Auckland mid-afternoon.