19D17N South America Escapade with Easter Island

Exceptional Experiences:

• Visit Chile’s first 100% organic and biodynamic winery: Go on a tour and tasting of four wines from their extensive range, accompanied by a tasting of either chocolate or cheese.

• Private Guided Excursion on Easter Island and extinct Rano Kau volcano

• Visit Petrohué waterfalls and Peulla Eco-Village - where whimsical shapes of volcanic rock, bathed by green waterfalls paint the perfect picture. The Eco-Village is also a paradise for nature lovers, get a look at a group of volcanoes and admire the beautiful landscape

• Visit Iguazu Falls - the world's largest system of waterfalls, and one of the Natural Seven Wonders of the World in both countries. With 275 different drops spanning across Argentina and Brazil, this breath-taking natural phenomenon will leave you speechless.

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Itinerary:

Note: Guests can opt for a 16D15N South America Escapade itinerary instead. itinerary is the same as 19D17N, with the exception of Easter Island. Please contact your travel advisor for more information.

Day 1: Singapore - Santiago

Depart Singapore for Santiago, the capital of Chile.

Day 2: Santiago (B/L/D)

Upon arrival, meet your guide and transfer to the city to check into your hotel, W Santiago.

Then, have lunch before you embark on a private city tour.

Get acquainted with the treasured landmarks of the Chilean capital. Get to know as you visit landmarks such as Metropolitan Cathedral of Santiago, Cerro Santa Lucia and La Moneda Palace. Immerse yourself in the bohemian charm of Bellavista neighbourhood and opt to explore the city’s financial district, nicknamed ‘Sanhattan’, due to its plethora of skyscrapers.

Enjoy the rest of your day at leisure.

Accommodation: 5* W Santiago

Day 3: Santiago (B/L/D)

This morning, after breakfast, meet your local guide and driver. Kickstart your day with a Chilean wine-and-dine experience along the coast. Discover the Casablanca Valley known for its cool climate wines due to its proximity to the Pacific Coast with this full-day wine and dine tour.

You will be picked up from your hotel and transported through the Curacavi Valley and Coastal Mountain range to the Casablanca region. Arrive at Chile’s first 100% organic and biodynamic winery and will go on a tour around the winery. Thereafter, taste some wines from their extensive range, accompanied by a tasting of either chocolate or cheese.

Next, you will visit a family-run winery with generations of winemaking experience, recognised as the innovators of the region. Witness some unique winemaking techniques and other interesting projects such as their liqueurs and wine "balsam". Browse their old-fashioned “Emporio” filled with local gourmet products then enjoy a delicious three-course gourmet lunch prepared by a local chef and specially matched with their unique wines.

Then, enjoy your evening at your leisure.

Accommodation: 5* W Santiago

Day 4: Easter Island (B/L/D)

*Note: Applicable only to – 19D17N South America Escapade

Today, depart for the airport for an early flight from Santiago for Easter Island (5 Hours 30 Minutes), a remote volcanic island in Polynesia also known as Rapa Nui. It is famed for archaeological sites, including nearly 900 monumental statues called moai, created by inhabitants during the 13th–16th centuries. These moai are carved human figures with oversize heads.

Discover the ancient culture of Rapa Nui and visit Ahu Akibi and view the seven Moai statues. Then, drive to Ahu Hanga Poukura where you will find a number of tumbled moai statues. Topknots made of red scoria rock are scattered as well. In the past when the islanders were fighting each other, these marvellous creations were partly destroyed.

Then, visit Puna Pau, a quarry in a small crater or cinder cone on the outskirts of Hanga Roa. Here, you will see a red scoria pukao on the heads of some of their iconic Moai statues, made using rock from Puna Pau.

Accommodation: 5* explora Rapa Nui - Posada de Mike Rapu

Day 5: Easter Island (B/L/D)

*Note: Applicable only to – 19D17N South America Escapade

This morning after breakfast, embark on a privately guided excursion to the southern coast and witness the perfectly preserved Ahu Vaihu. After which, proceed to Rano Raraku, a volcanic crater which houses 887 moai. It is also the place where about 95% of the island's known moai were carved. Then, drop by Ahu Tongarik, the largest ahu on Easter Island named “El Gigante,” stands some 72 feet tall and weighs more then the weight of two full 737 aeroplanes. The other moais were toppled during the island's civil wars, and in the 20th century, the ahu was swept inland by a tsunami. It has since been restored and has fifteen moai in total. All the moai here face sunset during the summer solstice.

Continue your journey to see Paro Maoi, the largest maoi statue ever erected, which stands at 10 meters tall, and weighs 75 metric tons.

To conclude the day, travel to the scenic Anakena beach, a white coral sand beach.

Accommodation: 5* explora Rapa Nui - Posada de Mike Rapu

Day 6: Easter Island – Santiago (B/L/D)

*Note: Applicable only to – 19D17N South America Escapade

 Rise and shine! Today, we will join a private excursion up to the extinct Rano Kau volcano. Here, you will drive to the ceremonial village of Orongo where you’ll see spectacular petroglyphs.

Then, catch a glimpse of the three islets of Motu Nui, Motu Iti and Motu Kao Kao. Next, we visit Ahu Vinapu, an archaeological site. Here, we can witness the pre-Incan architectural influence. Head for Ana Kai Tangata to view the ornate cave paintings, on its ceiling

After which, make your way for the airport around noon and head back to Santiago.

Enjoy the rest of your day at leisure in the city.

Accommodation: 5* The Ritz-Carlton, Santiago

Day 7: Santiago (B/L)

This morning after breakfast, escape the hustle and bustle of Santiago city and enjoy a day to remember as you embrace the magic of the Andes Mountains. Connect with nature in a peaceful environment of fresh, clean mountain air.

Then, make a visit to the enchanting village of San José del Maipo to admire the colonial-style architecture and see the church and main Plaza de Armas, where fans of adventure travel often gather. From there, continue the drive following the Maipo river.

Continue the journey and discover the amazing lagoon at Embalse El Yeso Dam. Take amazing pictures and a relaxing walk, and savour a delicious picnic lunch with a nice glass of wine or juice.

Return to Santiago and spend the rest of your day at leisure.

Accommodation: 5* The Ritz-Carlton, Santiago

Day 8: Puerto Montt – Puerto Varas (B/L/D)

This morning, transfer to the airport and take a domestic flight to Puerto Montt (1 Hour 45 Min), then continue to Puerto Varas via a short 30 min drive for a tour of the City of Roses.

Nestled on the South-West shores of the second largest lake in Chile, Lake Llanquihue, Puerto Varas is a must for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts and those wishing to delight in first-class gastronomy with the surroundings of this picturesque lake-side city.

Take a stroll along the Pérez Rosales boardwalk and take a stop to smell the roses and look across the glistening water for spectacular views of the snow-capped volcano Osorno.

Then, take notice of the German influence in its architecture. Some of the most notable of the architectural testimony are the Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish Church, Yunge House, and the Gotschlich Hou. If you’re in for a sweet treat, try their cakes, strudels and apple empanadas.

Later, make your way to your hotel on the shores of Lake Llanquihe.

Accommodation: 5* Hotel AWA

Day 9: Peurto Varas – Bariloche (B/D)

This morning, after breakfast, you will depart Puerto Varas and head for Petrohué (1 Hour).

Then, enter to the Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park and make a visit to the Petrohué waterfalls, where whimsical shapes of volcanic rock, bathed by green waterfalls paint the perfect picture.

Next, set sail to Peulla, sailing on Todos los Santos Lake and arrive in an eco-village, a paradise for nature lovers, get a look at a group of volcanoes and admire the beautiful landscape. Have lunch here at your own expense.

After which, board your private transfer from Puerto Frias and cross the Andes Mountain towards Puerto Blest via on Nahuel Huapi Lake, passing by Puerto Pañuelo before your final leg to Bariloche.

Arrive in Bariloche at night and check into your accommodation.  

Accommodation: 5* Llao Llao Resort, Golf & Spa

Day 10: Bariloche (B/L/D)

Today, after breakfast, you will explore Bariloche, a town in Argentina’s Patagonia region. It borders Nahuel Huapi, a large glacial lake surrounded by the Andes Mountains. Bariloche is also known for its Swiss alpine-style architecture and its chocolate, sold in shops lining Calle Mitre, the main street.

Make a visit to the beach playground of Playa Bonita and soak up the scenery from the hilltop of St. Edward’s chapel on the Llao Llao Peninsula. Then, ride a chairlift to the top of Cerro Campanario for stunning views of Nahuel Huapi Lakeshore, Llao Llao Peninsula and Panoramic Point.

After which, visit the famed Bariloche Chocolate Museum and spend the rest of your day at leisure.

Accommodation: 5* Llao Llao Resort, Golf & Spa

Day 11: Buenos Aires  (B/L/D)

Rise and shine, today after breakfast, discover the best spots in Buenos Aires with a private tour around the capital city with your private guide.

First, make a stop at Plaza de Mayo, one of the most emblematic public spaces in Buenos Aires. Admire the façade of the Casa Rosada and the Metropolitan Cathedral of Buenos Aires. Did you know that Jorge Mario Bergoglio gave several masses here before becoming Pope Francis?

Afterwards, drive through the famous San Telmo neighbourhood, home to one of the city's most famous markets. Next to this market lies the La Boca neighbourhood, where we make a stop and visit the colourful Caminito: a walkway/museum dedicated to the rhythms of tango.

We'll continue through the neighbourhoods of Puerto Madero and Palmero before reaching La Recoleta. Here, we'll stop at its cemetery. Listed by CNN as one of the top 10 most beautiful cemeteries in the world, the graves of Eva Perón, Napolean's granddaughter and ex-Argentinian presidents can all be found here.

Accommodation: 5* Palacio Duhau - Park Hyatt Buenos Aires

Day 12: Buenos Aires (B/L/D)

This morning after breakfast, escape the bustling streets of Buenos Aires with a full-day fiesta at the Estancia Santa Susana gaucho ranch. Discover the traditional way of life in the Argentine countryside with a horseback ride, ranch tour, and an impressive horseman show by the gallant gauchos. Feast on an array of grilled meats and sides at a traditional ‘parrillada’ barbecue, and watch a performance of folk song and dance.

After arriving at Estancia Santa Susana, you’ll be welcomed at the ranch house with warm empanadas and wine. Take a tour of Santa Susana’s grounds, chapel and museum while hearing stories about this historic working ranch.

Then, meet the friendly gauchos — talented wranglers and horsemen similar to cowboys of the American West. Ride a horse from the ranch stables or hop aboard a horse-drawn carriage for a ride through the surrounding farmland.

When you return, dig in at a rustic banquet table for a savoury parrillada (Argentine barbecue) featuring grilled meats and sausages served with salads and regional wine. Top off your feast with a sweet pastelito (pastry) and a cup of mate — a favourite Argentine drink made from steeped yerba mate leaves.

As you dine, enjoy a performance of traditional folk music and dancing, plus a boleadoras show where gauchos perform impressive feats of weapon throwing. Head outside to the pasture where the gauchos will continue displaying their skills through daring horseman stunt tricks, animal herding, and the ring race known as la sortija.

Return back to your accommodation.

Accommodation: 5* Palacio Duhau - Park Hyatt Buenos Aires

Day 13: Iguassu Falls (B/L/D)

This morning after breakfast, make our way to the thundering cascade of Iguazu Falls and visit the UNESCO-listed Iguazu National Park.

Iguazu Falls is the world's largest system of waterfalls, and one of the Natural Seven Wonders of the World. With 275 different drops spanning across two countries, this breath-taking natural phenomenon will leave you speechless.

Today, journey the Lower Path, Upper Path, and Devil's Throat and embark on a ride on the Rainforest Ecological Train. Venture into the Lower Path into the lush jungle. Enjoy the massive seawall water falling from Bosetti Jump and Alvar Núñez, Elenita and Lanusse.

Then, move onto the Upper Path. Then, arrive at the Devil's Throat via the Rainforest Ecological Train, descending on the Devil's Throat Station. From there, walk along the walkways and you will reach the grand "Devil's Throat" where the falls are seen in all of their might.

The 4X4 in the jungle brings you on through the Yacaratiá Path to Puerto. Then, sail through the canyon of the Iguazu Lower River towards the waterfalls. Enjoy crashing through the rapids, then continue on to see the Brazilian Jumps and Devil's Throat waterfalls. Feel the incredible rush of emotions as you get close to the incomparable Salto San Martin waterfalls, the largest cascade that can be approached by boat.

Then cross, over the borders into Brazil.

Accommodation: 5* Belmond Hotel das Cataratas

Day 14: Iguazu Falls (B/L/D)

Today after breakfast, rediscover the falls and head for your journey on the Brazilian side of the falls. Admire a variety of birds, multi-coloured butterflies, and small native mammals in the forest and navigate the Iguassu River on a pontoon boat.

Journey past a forest rich with unique flora and fauna: you’ll see birds, multi-coloured butterflies, and small coatis. Next, you’ll enjoy stunning views of the Devil’s Throat, an 80-meter cascade with the largest water flow in the world. Along the walkway to Floriano Falls, there’s a panoramic elevator leading to the top of the falls.

Then, hop on a Macuco Safari, an open-air vehicle and witness amazing views of the forest. Along with the safari, you’ll see orchids, bromeliads, centenary trees, and wildlife before arriving in Porto Macuco, where your pontoon boat awaits you. Navigate the Iguazu River and admire the picturesque canyons, moving at a speed that allows you to enjoy the landscape and take photos as you go. Finally, arrive at the base of the falls near the Devil’s Throat, where you'll get close enough to enjoy a quick refreshing dip in these pristine waters.

Accommodation: 5* Belmond Hotel das Cataratas

Day 15: Rio De Janeiro (B)

This morning, enjoy your breakfast and bid goodbye to the falls and fly into Rio de Janeiro. Then, transfer to your hotel that is overlooking the beach and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure.

Accommodation: 5* Emiliano Rio

Day 16: Rio De Janeiro (B/L/D)

This morning after breakfast, head for a city tour of Rio de Janeiro. Board a classic cogwheel train up to the summit of the famed 38-meter high statue of Christ the Redeemer. Christ the Redeemer is one of the main symbols of the country and offers a privileged panoramic view of the city of Rio de Janeiro.

Then, take a ride on the Sugar Loaf Cable Car is a cable car located in the Urca district, in the municipality of Rio de Janeiro, in the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. It connects Praia Vermelha to Morro da Urca and Morro do Pão de Açúcar.

Make a quick stop at Jornalista Mário Filho Stadium, better known as Maracanã, the popular Maraca soccer stadium that inaugurated in 1950 for Football World Cup.

Next, we head towards the Metropolitan Cathedral of Rio de Janeiro, a Catholic cathedral. After which, we drop by The Selarón Staircase is an architectural masterpiece located between the Santa Teresa and Lapa neighbourhoods of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, decorated by long-living Chilean artist Jorge Selarón.

To end of the evening, experience an unforgettable sunset cruise over Rio de Janeiro, sailing the bay as night falls onboard a luxurious yacht: a unique experience in the 'Cidade Maravilhosa'. Sail alongside the Urca and Botafogo coasts, one of the best-known areas of the Eastern bank of Rio de Janeiro.

Accommodation: 5* Emiliano Rio

Day 17-19: Depart Rio de Janerio

Depart Rio de Janerio for Singapore and cross the international dateline

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Please note: This itinerary is designed to give you an idea of what to expect on the tour but is not set in stone. What we actually do on a given day is flexible and can be tailored based on the interests of the group.

This itinerary and its package inclusions might be changed later in time, subject to availability.

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