Buenos Aires to Rio Explorer

Intrepid Travel · 17 days

3.9

6 Reviews

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Duration

17 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Basic

Physical Rating

Light

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

Hug the eastern coastline of South America on this 17-day city, countryside and island adventure. Discover Buenos Aires’ eclectic markets at San Telmo, travel to Rio de Janeiro to soak up all the Brazilian party vibes and experience life on an estancia in Uruguay.

Highlights

Spend three days at an estancia (ranch) in Uruguay, where you can spend your time getting involved learning about gauchos, riding horses or simply relaxing in the sun.
Stop in colourful Colonia del Sacramento, where vintage cars line the streets and an old drawbridge leads to the World Heritage-listed Old Quarter.
The mighty Iguazu Falls straddles the border between Argentina and Brazil, and you’ll cross the border to see its incredible cascades from both sides.
Let loose and samba the night away in Rio de Janeiro – South America’s party capital. Arriving in this bustling metropolis is the perfect way to continue your South American adventure.
You’ll have plenty of time to choose your own adventure at Ilha Grande with two full days on the island. So if hiking, boating, kayaking or lazing on a beach is your thing, we’ve got you covered.

Trip Details

Duration

17 days

Transportation

Boat, Bus, Ferry, Overnight bus, Private vehicle, Public bus, Taxi, Van

Guide Language

English

Starts

Buenos Aires, Argentina

Finishes

Rio de Janeiro, Argentina

Accommodations

Basic

Travel Style

Explorer

Physical Rating

Light

Itinerary

Day 1: Buenos Aires

Bienvenido! Welcome to Buenos Aires. Your trip begins with an orientation walk around Buenos Aires’ Microcentro district at 1 pm – your leader will be waiting in the hotel lobby. Pass by historic buildings along the Avenida de Mayo, including the Casa Rosada (Argentina's government house), explore antique markets in the picturesque San Telmo area and perhaps have a coffee in the famous Cafe Tortoni. Make sure you're back at the hotel for your welcome meeting at 6 pm where you’ll prepare for the rest of your adventure.

Included Activities:

Buenos Aires - Leader-led orientation walk

Optional Activities:

Buenos Aires - Polo day (185 USD)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 2: Colonia Del Sacramento

The morning is free to explore Buenos Aires – just ask your leader if you need any recommendations. Later in the day, jump on a ferry to cross the Rio de la Plata (River Plate) to Colonia del Sacramento in Uruguay. When you arrive, enjoy some free time to get acquainted with one of the country’s oldest cities. The World Heritage-listed Barrio Historico (Old Quarter) is a great place to start. Listen to the noisy parakeets in the Plaza Mayor or comb Colonia’s small museums. For great views, climb to the top of the city’s 19th-century lighthouse that’s still in operation today.

Optional Activities:

Colonia - Lighthouse visit (35 UYU)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 3: Tacuarembo

Enjoy a free morning in Colonia De Sacramento. You could continue strolling around Barrio Historico or maybe check out the artisan stalls selling Swiss cheese – Colonia was also settled by Swiss immigrants and is home to a unique local Swiss cheese. In the afternoon, you’ll take a private transfer to an estancia near the city of Mercedes where you'll meet your hosts who’ll look after you for the next couple of days.

Included Activities:

Estancia Stay - 3-Night Stay on an Estancia

Accommodation:

Estancia (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 4: Tacuarembo

Spend a couple of days experiencing life on a Uruguayan estancia. Although you’re welcome to relax and explore your surroundings at your leisure, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved with ranch activities, like making fresh empanadas or joining a game of football or volleyball. The digs aren’t fancy, but the surroundings and hospitality are something special. Eat homecooked meals including a traditional asado (barbecue), enjoy music around the campfire and maybe saddle up for a horse ride in true gaucho style.

Optional Activities:

Estancia - Horse riding - Free

Accommodation:

Estancia (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 5: Tacuarembo

Spend another day taking in the gorgeous views across the estancia. Maybe head out on another horse ride to explore your surroundings or make your way into nearby Mercedes for a river walk and an ice cream.

Optional Activities:

Estancia - Horse riding - Free

Accommodation:

Estancia (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 6: Tacuarembo

After breakfast, bid farewell to your hosts and travel to the Uruguay/Argentinian border. Cross the border to Argentina, then prepare for an overnight bus to Puerto Iguazu – the gateway to Iguazu Falls. There’ll be a chance to grab a light dinner and some snacks before the journey.

Accommodation:

Overnight Bus (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 7: Foz do Iguazu

When you arrive at Puerto Iguazu bus station this morning, jump in a minivan across the border into Brazil and head straight to the national park to stretch your legs and see the mighty Iguazu Falls. After some time spent admiring this force of nature, head to your hotel in Foz do Iguacu, where you have free time for the rest of the day.

Included Activities:

Iguazu Falls - Tour of the Brazilian side of the falls

Optional Activities:

Iguazu Falls - Bird Park (160 BRL)
Iguazu Falls - Helicopter ride (610 BRL)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 8: Foz do Iguazu

Return to Argentina today to see Iguazu Falls from a different angle. Following a series of boardwalks, it’s possible to get so close to the thundering waters that you can almost touch them. At over two km long, Iguazu Falls are made up of over 270 separate cascades, with some reaching up to 80 m in height. For a more exhilarating experience, why not take an optional Zodiac boat ride to the base of the falls? After, head back to your hotel to relax.

Included Activities:

Iguazu Falls - Tour of the Argentinian side of the falls

Optional Activities:

Iguazu Falls - Zodiac ride up to the falls (90 USD)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 9: Rio de Janeiro

Today you’ll take a flight to Rio de Janeiro. Settle into your hotel room, then head out with your leader for an orientation walk. The remainder of the day is free to explore at your own pace. Maybe head to Copacabana or Ipanema Beach or, if the time of year is right, check out a soccer game at the famous Maracana Stadium. You could also take the tramcar up to the artistic hillside neighbourhood of Santa Teresa, or head up Corcovado Mountain for sweeping views over Rio from the foot of the Christ the Redeemer statue.

Optional Activities:

Rio de Janeiro - Maracana football game (schedule dependent) (500 BRL)
Rio de Janeiro - Botanical Gardens admission fee (40 BRL)
Rio de Janeiro - Santa Teresa tramcar (20 BRL)
Rio de Janeiro - Christ the Redeemer (entrance) (85 BRL)
Rio de Janeiro - Samba Rehearsal (475 BRL)
Rio de Janeiro - Sugarloaf Mountain Cable Car (entrance) (195 BRL)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 10: Rio de Janeiro

After a free morning, you'll head out for a leader-led orientation walk around Rio this afternoon. In the evening, there will be another welcome meeting at 6 pm to meet the new members joining your group. Rio locals like to say that 'God made the world in six days, the seventh he devoted to Rio'. In this heaving metropolis, set against Guanabara Bay and surrounded by the slopes of Sugarloaf and Corcovado, it's hard not to be caught up in the passion of the city's residents, known as Cariocas. Known for both the glitz and glamour of Carnaval and the contrasting image of the favelas, Rio is a fascinating and diverse centre of all things colour. Tonight, after your briefing, why not keep the introductions going with an optional welcome dinner with your group.

Included Activities:

Rio de Janeiro - Orientation Walk

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 11: Paraty

This morning, take a shared transfer from Rio to Paraty (approximately 4 .5 hours). The remainder of today and rest of tomorrow are yours to explore Paraty. Admire the architecture as you wander along the town’s cobbled, pedestrian-only streets, which become partly covered in seawater at high tide. You might prefer to explore the rainforest trails in the surrounding national park, which is rich in wildlife and waterfalls. Otherwise, a boat trip on the island-studded bay for scenic views along the coast could be on the cards, or join an excursion to the nearby village of Trindade, which boasts some of Brazil’s best beaches. The best thing is you get to decide.

Optional Activities:

Paraty - Old Gold Road Hike (min. 4 participants) (350 BRL)
Paraty - Boat trip from (220 BRL)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 12: Paraty

Optional Activities:

Paraty - Trindade excursion (150 BRL)
Paraty - Jeep Tour (150 BRL)
Paraty - Cachaca Walking Tour (100 BRL)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 13: Ilha Grande

Today, jump on a shared transfer to Angra followed by a ferry to the island getaway of Ilha Grande, taking approximately 5 hours, in total. This paradise of pristine beaches and rainforest has been largely untouched by development. Previously a pirate's lair, a quarantine hospital and a prison for violent criminals, the island has a fascinating history to uncover. The ruins of the prison can still be seen today. Once you’ve arrived and got your bearings, head to the beach – it’s calling your name.

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 14: Ilha Grande

Rise and shine in paradise, ready to enjoy two full free days exploring Ilha Grande. Wander along rainforest trails to beautiful and remote beaches – Lopes Mendes and Aventureiro Beach are two of the best. You could book yourself in on an optional boat trip out to the Blue Lagoon, beach-hopping through Ilha Grande Bay along the way. There are plenty of opportunities to stop for fresh seafood, and to swim and snorkel in the clear water. Or just plonk yourself on the beach with a good book and laze the day away. In the evening, why not meet up with some of your travel pals and relax with a caipirinha at a restaurant or bar in Vila do Abraao – the island’s main town.

Optional Activities:

Ilha Grande - Blue Lagoon boat trip (250 BRL)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 15: Ilha Grande

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 16: Rio de Janeiro

Bid farewell to this slice of heaven as you board a boat to the small port of Mangaratiba today, and from here, take a minivan back to Rio de Janeiro. The total journey should take about 3.5 hours, so you should be back in Rio in the early to mid-afternoon. The rest of the day is free to explore the city or simply hit up Copacabana and relax. Tonight, get together with your travel crew for a night of food, drinks and some samba – speak to your local leader who’ll have some great recommendations for what to do tonight.

Optional Activities:

Rio de Janeiro - Botanical Gardens admission fee (40 BRL)
Rio de Janeiro - Santa Teresa tramcar (20 BRL)
Rio de Janeiro - Maracana football game (schedule dependent) (500 BRL)
Rio de Janeiro - Christ the Redeemer (entrance) (85 BRL)
Rio de Janeiro - Sunset Tour: Sugarloaf, Selaron & Kobra Grafiti (380 BRL)
Rio de Janeiro - Samba Rehearsal (475 BRL)
Rio de Janeiro - Sugarloaf Mountain Cable Car (entrance) (195 BRL)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 17: Rio de Janeiro

With no activities planned for today, you are free to leave the accommodation at any time, provided you comply with the hotel’s internal check-out policies. That doesn’t mean your adventure has to come to an end! If you would like to continue soaking up the sun in Rio, we’ll be happy to book additional accommodation (subject to availability).

Optional Activities:

Rio de Janeiro - Adventure & History at Tijuca Forest (325 BRL)
Rio de Janeiro - Tijuca Forest Express Hike - Pedra Bonita (295 BRL)
Rio de Janeiro - Secluded Beaches Hike - Prainha & Grumari (400 BRL)
Rio de Janeiro - Rio Nature Secrets "Eco-City-tour" (400 BRL)
Rio de Janeiro - Half Day City Tour (475 BRL)
Rio de Janeiro - Full Day City Tour (575 BRL)
Rio de Janeiro - Behind the Scenes Carnival Tour (380 BRL)

Exclusions

Flights to and from origin and destinations
Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
Anything else not explicitly listed in tour inclusions
Recommended gratuities/tipping
Optional activities/tours
Personal expenses
Travel insurance
Visas, meals and beverages not stated in the list of inclusions.

Important Information

Meals

When meals are not included, your tour leader (where available) will be happy to help with restaurant recommendations, bookings, and directions. Please let us know if you have any dietary needs or preferences. We will do our best to accommodate these, though we cannot guarantee that every request can be met.

Luggage

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. You will need to carry your own bags between the vehicle and your hotel room. Drivers will assist with loading and unloading luggage from the vehicle.

Mobility

Travellers requiring wheelchair access should contact our sales and service team, who can make enquiries on your behalf.

Fitness Level

This tour requires an average level of fitness. Activities are paced gently and include leisure time. You may be expected to join guided walks of up to one hour, navigate short stairways and mild inclines, and manage your own luggage. You should also be able to board and exit all transport without assistance.

Travellers are expected to be self-sufficient and capable of handling all aspects of their journey. Please discuss your circumstances and support needs with your booking agent to confirm this trip is suitable.

If you are unsure, we recommend consulting your doctor before booking or travelling.

Sightseeing

If a planned site visit is unavailable due to changes in operating hours or holiday closures, the itinerary may be altered, or a comparable activity will be substituted where possible and subject to availability.

Visas

Visa conditions can change. Once you receive your travel documents, check with the relevant embassy, consulate, or immigration office of your destination for the latest information.

It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct and valid travel documents and to comply with all entry requirements.
Non-Australian citizens must also confirm visa and identification requirements with the appropriate consulate or visa agency.
Certain occupations (for example, journalists, government officials, or those working in charities) may face additional restrictions when applying for visas, which could affect the type of application required.

Departure Dates & Surcharges: See checkout for live dates and availability.

AUD $5,290

(Tour only)

Per Person Twin Share

Duration: 17 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Light

Check Availability Brochure

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 27 Feb 2026

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Customer Reviews

Overall Rating

Excellent

4.5

Guide

Excellent

4.5

Itinerary

Excellent

4.5

Accommodations

Excellent

4.5

Transportation

Excellent

4.5

Tour Operator

Excellent

4.5

Food

Excellent

4.5

4.0

Thomas

Traveled, February 2024

03/14/2024

Myself and my wife we really enjoy this trip and I recommended .you will enjoy more if your leader is GUI

4.0

KEZIAH

Traveled, January 2024

02/01/2024

Uruguay ranch experience is not worth 3 days. A day or two in Montevideo would have been amazing.

Tour Operator

Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.

In Business Since 1989

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