A discovery across South America's most influential and intoxicating countries.
Two of South America's most vibrant and sultry countries await you on South America Samba. Starting in the 'Cidade Maravilhosa' of Rio, ride the cog railway to Christ the Redeemer and cruise around Guanabara Bay, then experience the sheer force of nature at Iguassu Falls, the world's largest series of waterfalls. Country hop to Argentina for big steaks, fiery tango and a slice of gaucho living, letting the passion and charm of Buenos Aires work its way into your heart.
Golden swathes of famous coastline, tropical landscapes and a certain "joie de vivre" will welcome you to one of the world's most vibrant cities, Rio de Janeiro. Energy pulses through every pore of this passionate and fun loving city, flooding from the favelas to the football fields and cumulating in nightly parties where the caipirinhas are free flowing and the samba rhythm is infectious. Rio may be best known for its annual Carnival, but visiting here you'll realise that every day is cause for celebration. Settle in to your hotel before meeting up with your Travel Director this afternoon. Then, if you'd like, hit the sands of Copacabana to watch the sun set whilst you sip your first Cachaça.
Trip Summary Accomodation IconHotel - Rio de Janeiro Mirador
Day 2
Rio de Janeiro Sightseeing and Free Time
The picturesque Cosme Velho district will be your first stop today, where 1920's neocolonial buildings will surround you as you board the Corcovado Rack Railway, an old cogwheel train. Hopping on board you'll wind your way through the Tijuca Forest to the very top of Mount Corcovado, standing in awe as you catch a first glimpse of the 30 metre high Christ the Redeemer. The undisputed icon of Rio, this magnificent art deco statue is one of the new 7 Wonders of the World and offers the best vantage point of the 'Marvellous City' stretching out below. Take your time exploring here before heading on to visit lively Copacabana and beautiful Ipanema, Rio's best known beaches. Laze under an umbrella, take a dip in the surf, then this evening dive in to Rio's famed culinary scene.
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast
Optional Experience
Ginga Tropical Show
Ginga Tropical celibraties the diversity and culture of the Northeast, Amazon, Pampas, Bahia and Rio de Janeiro though music and dance. Bohemian culture, folklore and mystical rituals are represented by the drummers and beautiful dancers dressed with carnival costumes. Total duration is approximately 3 hours. (No Minimum)
Adult Price: $112.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Day 3
Rio de Janeiro Free Time
Waking up to your final full day in Rio, today is free to explore your way. Perhaps opt for a sun drenched sailing excursion around Guanabara Bay, passing by islands and forts with the towering Sugarloaf Mountain ever present in the distance. For those keen to get a closer look, you could also opt for a half day city tour of Rio which includes ascending the mountain by cable car for absolutely stand out views. Tonight, celebrate the diversity and culture of South America at the Carretão Ipanema Churrascaria. Distinctly a South American style rotisserie, it owes its origins to the fireside roasts of the gaúchos of southern Brazil traditionally from the Pampa region, centuries ago.
Spend two hours sailing Guanabara Bay on a schooner. Take in the beautiful views of Rio de Janeiro with Sugarloaf Mountain towering in the distance. Pass the bay's islands and forts as you sail by picture postcard settings. Total duration is approximately 3 hours.
Adult Price: $58.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Optional Experience
Half Day City Tour including Sugar Loaf
Begin your tour in the heart of Rio, where colonial Rio meets modern skyscrapers. See the Paço Imperial palace, the first residence of the Royal Family, Banco do Brasil Cultural Center and the Candelaria Church. Proceed to Presidente Vargas avenue, built to create access from the suburbs to the commercial center of the Capital in the early nineties, passing through the popular market and Tiradentes Square. See the Metropolitan Cathedral of Rio de Janeiro, Rio´s aqueduct, Santo Antonio Church, BNDES and Petrobras buildings reaching Lapa, the most popular night life point in Rio. You will have a panoramic views of the Municipal Theater (Teatro Municipal), the National Library and the City Council building – all of them inspired in the European 18th century style. Afterward, drive through Flamenco Park, then ascend Sugar Loaf. This famous mountain is reached by cable car 1,200 feet high, an experience you will never forget. Total duration is approximately 4 hours. Gratuity Included (Minimum of 15 guests to operate)
Adult Price: $69.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Day 4
Rio de Janeiro – Iguassu Falls (2 Nights)
Leaving the colourful costumes and infectious rhythms of Rio behind, this morning you'll head to the airport to catch your flight to Iguassu Falls. Words can't really describe the magnificence of the world's largest series of waterfalls (275 to be exact), which straddle the border between Argentina and Brazil and are surrounded by lush expanses of national park. Settle in to your hotel this afternoon and spend the evening relaxing, no doubt bubbling with excitement for the natural spectacle that tomorrow will bring.
Pack your raincoat and your sense of adventure this morning as you're off to visit the Iguassu National Park, entering on the Brazilian side of the falls. You'll be venturing down to the ominously named and utterly exhilarating Devil's Throat, the tallest and most impressive of Iguassu's waterfalls. Remember that raincoat? Now's the time to use it! This afternoon keep the adrenalin levels high on an Optional Experience^ hike down a canyon to the Macuco Falls, where you'll then board a custom designed inflatable motorboat for a high intensity ride to the base of the falls. If keeping things a little more sedate is more your style, opt to visit a bird park where you can spot more than 150 different species of birds.
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast
Optional Experience
Bird Park
This family owned park is home to more than 900 native birds from 150 species. Enjoy a self-guided walking tour along a well-marked trail through subtropical forests. Enter aviaries to get more of an up close and personal view of the birds. Total duration is approximately 2.5 hours.
Adult Price: $40.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Optional Experience
Macuco Safari *
Begin this adventure in open-air wagons as you work your way through lush sub-tropical forests. Then hike down the canyon where the Macuco Falls tumble over basalt cliffs into the Iguassu basin. Here, board a custom-designed inflatable motorboat for a 20-30 minute exhilarating ride to the base of the falls. Total duration is approximately 2 hours. Gratuity Included.
Adult Price: $126.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Day 6
Iguassu Falls – Buenos Aires (3 Nights)
Country hopping between Brazil and Argentina, today you'll cross the Tancredo Neves Bridge, otherwise known as Fraternity Bridge, to explore the Argentinian side of the falls. Adding a new stamp to your passport as you cross through customs, you'll drive through the lush and wildlife rich Argentinian Iguassu National Park to reach the falls and cascades which are equally as impressive from this side of the border. Boarding the open sided and near silent Ecological Jungle Train which is every bit as scenic and sensual as it sounds, you'll pay a second visit to Devil's Throat before heading to the airport to catch a flight to passionate, sexy, European influenced Buenos Aires.
Trip Summary Accomodation IconHotel - Cyan Hotel de las Americas
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast
Day 7
Buenos Aires Sightseeing and Free Time
Waking up in sultry Buenos Aires this morning is a prospect that should fill you with excitement. This meat loving, tango obsessed capital city is a mix of sultry charm and gritty splendour, where European inspired buildings rub shoulders with rough around the edges barrios, and street art pops from every corner. Dive in to all Buenos Aires has to offer on a sightseeing tour that will visit 9 de Julio Avenue, the widest avenue in the world, outstanding Colon Theatre, Plaza de Mayo, Metropolitan Cathedral and San Telmo, the oldest district in the city. Finishing up in colourful and charming La Boca you'll then have time to explore by yourself this afternoon before dressing up in your South American finest for a night of Argentinian steak and classic tango, accompanied by a spectacular live orchestra.
Another free day in the Argentinian capital, you could join an Optional Experience that could see you experiencing a glimpse into the life of a gaucho, the cowboy culture that has existed for over three centuries. Heading out into the glorious pampas (grasslands) surrounding Buenos Aires you'll visit a 3000 acre working ranch to learn more about the gaucho culture, enjoying folk music, traditional dances and carriage rides before rounding off the experience with a juicy BBQ lunch. You've also got the option of visiting the lush countryside region of Tigre Delta, which offers a laid back vibe and a chance to see a different side of Argentine life. Enjoy a picturesque cruise around the delta and spot the delightful summer residences of Buenos Aires elite.
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast
Optional Experience
Fiesta Gaucha With BBQ Lunch
Enjoy a great day as you head out into the pampas to visit an authentic 3,000 acre (1200 hectare) working estancia (Argentinean ranch) that dates back to the late 19th century. A BBQ will be served family style by Gauchos. Enjoy activities throughout the day including a folklore show, carriage rides and horse demonstrations. Total duration is approximately 7 hours. (For Private Trafalgar Transportation, a Minimum of 15 Guests is Required.)
Adult Price: $136.25*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Optional Experience
Tigre Delta
Head to the northern outskirts of Buenos Aires to the lush countryside of the Tigre Delta on this outing. This area is a popular weekend getaway for Buenos Aires residents. The delta features pretty scenery, lovely summer residences, relaxing vibe, yachting and a chance to see another way of Argentine life. Your tour includes a cruise on the delta and if you are visiting on Saturdays, you can stroll through the local outdoor market. Total duration is approximately 4 hours. Gratuity included.
Adult Price: $47.75*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Day 9
Depart Buenos Aires
2 countries and 1 New Wonder of the World later, your trip will finally come to an end this morning. Leaving with priceless memories, a wealth of new knowledge and a wonderful group of new friends you'll make your way to the airport, or if you still feel like the sultry charm of Buenos Aires still has more to give, why not extend your trip for a few more days.
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast
All optional experiences for this trip
Book with your travel director when you travel
Available on day 2
Ginga Tropical Show
Ginga Tropical celibraties the diversity and culture of the Northeast, Amazon, Pampas, Bahia and Rio de Janeiro though music and dance. Bohemian culture, folklore and mystical rituals are represented by the drummers and beautiful dancers dressed with carnival costumes. Total duration is approximately 3 hours. (No Minimum)
Adult Price: $112.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 3
Guanabara Bay Cruise
Spend two hours sailing Guanabara Bay on a schooner. Take in the beautiful views of Rio de Janeiro with Sugarloaf Mountain towering in the distance. Pass the bay's islands and forts as you sail by picture postcard settings. Total duration is approximately 3 hours.
Adult Price: $58.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 3
Half Day City Tour including Sugar Loaf
Begin your tour in the heart of Rio, where colonial Rio meets modern skyscrapers. See the Paço Imperial palace, the first residence of the Royal Family, Banco do Brasil Cultural Center and the Candelaria Church. Proceed to Presidente Vargas avenue, built to create access from the suburbs to the commercial center of the Capital in the early nineties, passing through the popular market and Tiradentes Square. See the Metropolitan Cathedral of Rio de Janeiro, Rio´s aqueduct, Santo Antonio Church, BNDES and Petrobras buildings reaching Lapa, the most popular night life point in Rio. You will have a panoramic views of the Municipal Theater (Teatro Municipal), the National Library and the City Council building – all of them inspired in the European 18th century style. Afterward, drive through Flamenco Park, then ascend Sugar Loaf. This famous mountain is reached by cable car 1,200 feet high, an experience you will never forget. Total duration is approximately 4 hours. Gratuity Included (Minimum of 15 guests to operate)
Adult Price: $69.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 5
Bird Park
This family owned park is home to more than 900 native birds from 150 species. Enjoy a self-guided walking tour along a well-marked trail through subtropical forests. Enter aviaries to get more of an up close and personal view of the birds. Total duration is approximately 2.5 hours.
Adult Price: $40.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 5
Macuco Safari *
Begin this adventure in open-air wagons as you work your way through lush sub-tropical forests. Then hike down the canyon where the Macuco Falls tumble over basalt cliffs into the Iguassu basin. Here, board a custom-designed inflatable motorboat for a 20-30 minute exhilarating ride to the base of the falls. Total duration is approximately 2 hours. Gratuity Included.
Adult Price: $126.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 8
Fiesta Gaucha With BBQ Lunch
Enjoy a great day as you head out into the pampas to visit an authentic 3,000 acre (1200 hectare) working estancia (Argentinean ranch) that dates back to the late 19th century. A BBQ will be served family style by Gauchos. Enjoy activities throughout the day including a folklore show, carriage rides and horse demonstrations. Total duration is approximately 7 hours. (For Private Trafalgar Transportation, a Minimum of 15 Guests is Required.)
Adult Price: $136.25*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 8
Tigre Delta
Head to the northern outskirts of Buenos Aires to the lush countryside of the Tigre Delta on this outing. This area is a popular weekend getaway for Buenos Aires residents. The delta features pretty scenery, lovely summer residences, relaxing vibe, yachting and a chance to see another way of Argentine life. Your tour includes a cruise on the delta and if you are visiting on Saturdays, you can stroll through the local outdoor market. Total duration is approximately 4 hours. Gratuity included.
Adult Price: $47.75*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
All Optional Experiences
The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Discover Recoleta Cemetery, the Plaza de Mayo and 9 de Julio Avenue, the widest avenue in the world before being whisked away to your dinner and Tango show, where you travel back to the glory days of this colourful city
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Iguassu Falls
Step out onto catwalks along the world's widest cascading waterfalls and be awed by Devil's Throat before boarding your jungle train through the tropical Iguassu National Park
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Rio de Janeiro
Explore iconic sights such as Copacabana and Ipanema Beaches, Christ the Redeemer and the stunning Tijuca Forest on your cogwheel train
On every trip
Unique or exclusive to Costsaver, here’s a sample of what’s included in your trip.
Audio Headsets Provided throughout your holiday to enhance your included sightseeing experiences
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Luxury air-conditioned coach
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All internal air included in trip cost
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Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
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Variety of Optional Experiences
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An expert Travel Director and separate driver
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All hotel service charges and tips, baggage handling fees and local taxes
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LIVE, UNEDITED & INDEPENDENT TRAVELLERS REVIEWS
South America Samba Trip Reviews
Our guests are at the heart of everything we do, their feedback fuels our innovation, inspiring us to improve continuously and craft Simply The Best vacations. That's why we ask each of our guests to leave a third-party verified, independent review after every trip. As testament to our commitment we have been given the Trusted Service Award from Feefo, recognising we deliver exceptional experiences as rated by real guests.
Overall Rating
4.3
Out of 5
Based on 16 independent reviews
Trip Rating
Customer experience
Trip rating is the overall quality of the itinerary and trip
4.1
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5
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Customer experience is the standard of service you receive
You get what you pay for. My friends and I had a fabulous time. It was a last minute plan to celebrate our birthday within our budget and workout perfect. Gia our knowledgeable tour guide was awesome. Drivers were great. Hotel accommodation was so so, like I mentioned you get what you paid for. Other than that. Both countries visited was great..
Very good Itinerary, lots of optional choices. Would have liked to have the opportunity to try the tango or samba, maybe a quick lesson...Enjoyed the shows and the pampas. Of course the falls were spectacular!! Both sides!!
Travel directors and other staff exceeded my expectations by providing an excellent travel experience from the time we landed in Rio until our departure in Buenos Aires.
Note: For activities marked with an caret (^) in the day-by-day itinerary, participation is at your own risk and a signed liability waiver will be required.
Guaranteed Room Share is not available on this trip.
Passport: Guest passport information for flights is required at time of final payment.
Trip prices are per person, land only, based on double occupancy and reflect applicable discount. Discounts are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice.
Trip prices are correct at the time of the products going live, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking. All trip information is correct at time of trips going live, however are subject to change - please confirm all details at time of booking.
Twin-share option not available for trips to South America, Costa Rica, Mexico, Alaska, Hawaii or for any holiday & cruise combination, or in Asia and Eastern Mediterranean except Highlights of Turkey (without cruise) & Best of Turkey. It's also not available on Small Group trips. Guided Vacations included in this restriction are Newfoundland and Labrador (DNLA) as well as Panama, the Canal & Beyond (LPAN).
For trips that are part of our Guaranteed Room Share, please note that there is a no smoking policy in all shared rooms. Solo travel is not accepted on guided Family Experiences holidays unless travelling as part of a family group.
Your selected dates have an enhanced itinerary.
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You’ll be travelling in Autumn, Winter or Spring, and this itinerary has been enhanced for you to enjoy the unique experiences these seasons offer.
