Chile to Brazil: Road Trippin’ Lake District & Beyond

Arrive at any time. Santiago is special for its unique blend of lively city life and easy access to nearby natural wonders. Get to know the area on your own and simply enjoy being nestled between the towering Andes and mighty Pacific Ocean. Later attend a Welcome Meeting to mingle with your fellow travellers and grow excited for the adventures to come. Snap some photos and get those playlists queued up.

Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group: Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.

Enjoy the day in Santiago, Chile’s capital. From delicious local cuisines to interactive museums and cable car rides, this is a wonderful city to get lost in for the day. Choose to check out the street art in Barrio Bellavista, explore the city by bike, enjoy historic parks with gardens, pathways, and viewpoints, or perhaps book a day trip to Valparaíso for a visit to the nearby cold-climate wineries. Later meet back up with the group for a quick briefing and time to grab dinner on your own and buy some snacks before your overnight bus ride to Pucón. Get ready to fully embrace South American local transportation and enjoy the company of your new travel family.

: Enjoy time with your new travel family, swapping stories and playing games. Then curl up and catch a snooze en route to the next stop.

Free Time: Spend the entire day exploring Santiago at your own pace. From gorgeous city parks to day trips to nearby wineries, there are plenty of options to choose from to get you out of your comfort zones and into the gorgeous surrounding landscapes. Make sure to leave some time to try delicious local food staples like empanadas de pino, pastel de choclo, sopaipillas, and of course, fresh ceviche.

Arrive to Pucón as the day begins to shed its light on this quaint, adventure town in central Chile’s Lake District near Lake Villarrica and the snow-capped Villarrica volcano. Walk from the bus station to the nearby hostel and get settled. Then, it’s time to enjoy yourselves in a place renowned for its access to hiking trails, water sports, and natural hot springs. Choose to go for a soak and sooth those muscles after the long bus ride, or perhaps try rafting on the Trancura River. From laid back vibes to adrenaline pumping adventure, the day belongs to you.

Free Time: Spend the entire day exploring Pucón at your own pace. From hot springs to hikes, to community visits, and water sports, this town is a fantastic place to enjoy the spirit of adventure. The scenery is breathtaking and you can choose to try a variety of optional activities, creating the exact paced day you desire after a night of travel.

Take advantage of another free day in Pucón to try one of the many different optional activities available in the area. Head out onto the lake for a kayak ride, chill out down town with stunning views of the snow-capped volcano in the distance, or if you’re seeking out more of a challenge, consider the Villarrica Hike to the top of the volcano for epic vistas of the surrounding landscape and lakes. It’s the perfect reel in the making.

Free Time: A second chance to enjoy all Pucón has to offer during a full free day. Choose to visit and soak in another one of the nearby hot springs, go for a boat ride, try sailing on the lake, or visit Huerquehue National Park. Opt to enjoy a leisurely kayak ride, or simply relax on the black sand beach of Lake Villarrica. From shopping to hiking, or sipping a coffee at a local café, there are so many different options to choose from to make your time here rewarding and memorable.

Hit the road today to Puerto Varas. Opt to grab one final breakfast in Pucón with your travel pals and then walk to the bus station in town to board the local bus. Then, sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenery as you travel further south through Chile. Arrive in the late afternoon and enjoy free time to get settled before choosing to find a cool spot to share some appetizers with the group.

: Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.

Free Time: Spend a free evening in Puerto Varas getting to know the area and take in your surroundings. Remember to take pictures and videos for your family and friends at home.

Another beautiful day to explore on your own. Think stunning natural landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities. Located on the shores of Lake Llanquihue, you will be able to enjoy views of the Osorno and Calbuco volcanoes. It’s a place that offers a unique blend of European charm and Chilean culture. Options to choose from during your time here include, a visit to Chiloe Island and its colourful stilt houses known as palafitos, or its UNESCO Churches. You could also challenge yourself and trek the Osorno volcano for some bragging rights upon returning home. Later, opt to reconvene with the group and pick a place for an optional dinner together.

Free Time: From hiking to island visits there's no time to waste! Fall in love with the outdoor haven of Puerto Varas and choose from a variety of activities that will get you out into the stunning landscape of Chile's southern lake district.

Hop on a local bus from Puerto Varas to San Carlos de Bariloche. Gaze out at the gorgeous Chilean scenery, download your favorite podcast, play those travel vibe playlists on repeat, swap stories, and share laughs with your friends. You will cross the border into Argentina today, so have those passports handy. Arrive in the evening and get settled in your new destination.

Border Crossing (Chile - Argentina): Cross the border between Chile and Argentina at Paso Cardenal Antonio Samoré. Have your passports handy.

: Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.

Get ready to encounter more epic scenery in Bariloche! Home to a unique blend of European and Argentinian culture, the town is situated on the shores of Nahuel Huapi Lake and surrounded by the mighty Andes. It’s known fondly as the “Switzerland of Argentina” and boasts a strong chocolate and craft beer scene. After breakfast enjoy an introductory stroll through the beautiful Patagonian landscapes. Encounter viewpoints along the Small Circuit and ride the chairlift to Cerro Campanario for panoramic views. Then, spend the remainder of the day falling in love with the town’s charm and pursuing one of the many outdoor optional activities available. From horseback riding to rafting, there’s no time to waste! Make sure those phones are charged up for epic selfies.

Small Circuit & Cerro Campanario: Enjoy a captivating introduction to Bariloche amid the town's stunning landscapes as you stroll along the Small Circuit. Then, take the chairlift up to Cerro Campanario for the perfect vantage point and panoramic views of the area.

Free Time: The afternoon belongs to you. Choose from a wide variety of outdoor adventure optional activities in the area like horseback riding, rafting, biking, or hiking. You can also choose to visit Isla Victoria and Bosque de Arrayanes.

Rest is for when you get back home! Enjoy a full free day in Bariloche’s outdoor paradise to do as you please. Adventurous activities await, or you could choose to stroll around town, find a cute cafe and people watch. Though, if you’re asking us, we think a chocolate tasting or brewery hopping could make for an ideal day by the lake.

Free Time: Spend a full free day at your leisure in beautiful Bariloche. From hiking and biking, to getting out on the lake, or checking out cool shops in town, there are plenty of options to fit whatever vibe you are going for.

Take advantage of a slow morning to recover from the busyness of the last few days. Take in the serene beauty of Bariloche and collect the supplies you will need for the next leg of the adventure. Part of South America’s charm resides in the affordable and crazy long bus rides between destinations and countries. Get ready to experience one for yourself as the group boards a local bus from Bariloche to Buenos Aires. Download some podcasts, playlists, and tv shows, grab a deck of cards or other fun group games and get ready for a memorable ride north. While it will be a long 24hrs of travel, the experience will certainly leave an impression, and it’s worth partaking it at least once during your South American escapades. Prepare for authentic local, long-distance travel, you’re going to love it!

: Curl up and catch a snooze en route to the next stop.

Free Time: Rest up for the journey ahead on a free morning in Bariloche. Watch the sun rise in the sky over the lake, and simply enjoy being present. From local shops to quaint cafés, there are still so many places left to discover during your time here.

Awake today with the satisfaction of having travelled from one side of South America to the other. Arrive in Buenos Aires in the early afternoon and take in the sights, sounds, and smells. The choice is yours. Opt to visit La Boca neighbourhood, go on a city tour, or book dinner and a tango show; pretty spot on in the birthplace of tango. After a long travel day it will be refreshing to stretch those legs and embrace the vivid energy of Argentina’s capital.

Big Night Out: Whether it’s a pub crawl, drink specials or a tango performance, celebrate late into the night with your new best friends.

Free Time: Enjoy a free afternoon in Buenos Aires, the home of tango. Choose to visit La Boca neighbourhood to see the barrio’s brightly coloured buildings and El Caminito (a cobblestone street lined with artist studios that’s often used as an impromptu setting for tango performances). Or book dinner and a tango show for this evening. The choice is yours and there are so many different options to pick from.

Enjoy a full free day to explore Buenos Aires on your own. From neighbourhood visits, to museums, and sightseeing around the city, there are plenty of options to choose from. Or, if you would rather relax, try finding a local café or park where you can chill and people watch.

Free Time: Enjoy a full free day in Buenos Aires, the home of tango. Choose to visit La Boca neighbourhood to see the barrio’s brightly coloured buildings and El Caminito (a cobblestone street lined with artist studios that’s often used as an impromptu setting for tango performances). The choice is yours and there are so many different options to pick from.

Explore the "Paris of the Americas," from the hidden patios of trendy Palermo to bohemian vibes in San Telmo this city has something for everyone. Don’t miss out! Today is your last chance to experience a guided tour of the city and to immerse yourself in the passion of the tango.

Free Time: Get out and explore Argentina's beautiful capital city.

Hop aboard a ferry and cruise across the Río de la Plata to Colonia, Uruguay. Wander through the colourful streets of this quaint seaside retreat on an orientation walk before free time to explore (and relax!) at your own speed.

Border Crossing (Argentina - Uruguay): Ready for a little more ink in your passport? Grab your bags and get ready to check another country off your bucket list.

: Get to the next spot on your route aboard a convenient and efficient ferry boat.

Free Time: Get out and explore quaint Colonia.

Your journey continues in the morning as you travel from Colonia to Montevideo. The afternoon is yours for the taking — so explore as you wish! You can wander through the vibrant streets of old town searching for street art or visit an iconic soccer stadium that was host to the first World Cup. Hungry? Bring your appetite to Port Market where you will find an endless bounty of delicious meats. (And fruits and veggies, too.)

: Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.

Free Time: Explore Montevideo, spend the afternoon cruising along the coast on a bike, visiting the iconic soccer stadium, or search for street art in the old town.

Meal plan: BREAKFAST

Wake up ready to take on another day in Montevideo. Hop on a bike and cruise down the Rambla, soaking up sun and gorgeous views from this coastline avenue. Take a day trip to glamorous Punta del Este to admire the upscale neighbourhoods and gardens. Or if you prefer to relax today, kick back and chill in the park like a local.

Free Time: Take as much time as you'd like to explore Montevideo.

Meal plan: BREAKFAST

Today, let the scenery of picturesque settlements and pastures guide you to Mercedes, your last Uruguayan stop at a local ranch, known in this region as an estancia.

Estancia Stay: Live like a local Gaucho as you experience life on a Uruguayan working ranch in the region of Estancia. Set out on walks through the countryside, enjoy an easy horseback ride through the gorgeous scenery, and appreciate unforgettable sunsets. Learn about the area’s history, sit down for a delicious traditional barbecue, and learn how to cook empanadas. All meals are included during your time here and there will be a farewell bonfire before the group departs for the next stop.

: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Meal plan: BREAKFAST, LUNCH, DINNER

Live like a local today as you experience life on an Uruguayan ranch. Walk through the serene countryside, learn how to make empanadas, and enjoy horseback riding with amazing views. End your estancia stay in the best way possible — with a local barbecue.

Estancia Stay: Live like a local Gaucho as you experience life on a Uruguayan working ranch in the region of Estancia. Set out on walks through the countryside, enjoy an easy horseback ride through the gorgeous scenery, and appreciate unforgettable sunsets. Learn about the area’s history, sit down for a delicious traditional barbecue, and learn how to cook empanadas. All meals are included during your time here and there will be a farewell bonfire before the group departs for the next stop.

Free Time: Participate in as much or as little as you'd like at the estancia. Dive in and help out or put your feet up.

Meal plan: BREAKFAST, LUNCH, DINNER

Cross the border into Gualeguaychu in Argentina today. Unwind, relax and reflect on your travels as you begin your overnight journey to Iguassu Falls.

Border Crossing (Uruguay - Argentina): Ready for a little more ink in your passport? Grab your bags and get ready to check another country off your bucket list.

: Curl up and catch a snooze en route to the next stop.

Meal plan: BREAKFAST

Welcome to Iguassu Falls where your next adventure awaits. Arrive to Puerto Iguazú in the morning after your overnight bus ride and enjoy a unique visit to the G Adventures-supported Jasy Pora community in the lush Misiones rainforest region. Guided by a local expert you will learn more about this Indigenous community as well as their harmonious relationship to the environment. Afterwards, choose to visit the Brazilian side of the falls and experience unforgettable panoramic views. Reach new heights with the option to take a helicopter ride over the falls, or check out a bird park.

Guaraní Community Experience: Experience a unique visit to the G Adventures-supported Jasy Pora community in the morning. Meaning “Luna Bonita,” this community is located just 20 minutes from the centre of Puerto Iguazú in the area known as Las 600 Hectáreas. The region is home to the native Guaraní communities and Jasy Pora was formed by 20 different families whom are opening their doors to share culture and knowledge with travellers. The aim is to preserve their heritage and create employment opportunities for future generations. Historically nomadic, the Guaraní community of Argentina has adapted to modern challenges while still protecting their ancestral lands. Your visit has a meaningful impact and helps to foster pride and ensure the preservation of their heritage. Guided by a local Guaraní expert, the group will explore the lush Misiones rainforest and experience a deeper connection to nature. Learn more about the traditional uses of flora and fauna, the Indigenous language, and the importance of a harmonious relationship with the environment through sustainable practices.

: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Free Time: Get out and explore the area!

Enjoy a full day excursion to the breathtaking Argentine side of the falls. Don't forget to take pictures as you wander along paths to experience the falls from each exhilarating vantage point. You can also take a boat tour to see the cascading falls from below.

Border Crossing (Brazil - Argentina): Ready for a little more ink in your passport? Grab your bags and get ready to check another country off your bucket list.

Meal plan: BREAKFAST

Wheels up! Take a quick flight to São Paulo today then head straight to the coast. Take some time to explore the colonial town of Paraty, then hit the beach.

: Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.

Meal plan: BREAKFAST

Do as much or as little as you want today. Go swimming, snorkelling, or explore the islands on a boat tour. Or, simply recharge your batteries by immersing yourself in the laidback vibes of Paraty.
Paraty is a quaint colonial town renowned for its architecture—the pace might be slow but there's a lot to choose from. Considered one of the world's most important examples of Portuguese colonial architecture by UNESCO, the historic centre is a well-preserved national historic monument, and today has been closed to vehicles to preserve its laid-back colonial ambiance.

Free Time: You made it to the beach! Enjoy it by exploring the area or blissing out by the water.

Meal plan: BREAKFAST

Continue up the coast today and hop aboard a ferry to where your island paradise awaits.

: Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.

Free Time: You made it to an island paradise! Go explore it.

Meal plan: BREAKFAST

The day is yours to explore Ilha Grande. Break a sweat hiking remote trails to experience jaw dropping views, or choose to relax on a boat tour through turquoise waters to some of the island's most beautiful beaches to swim and snorkel.

Free Time: You made it to an island paradise! Go explore it.

Meal plan: BREAKFAST

Say goodbye to island life and head north along a dramatic coastal road with sweeping views. Round the cliffs at Vidigal to catch a first glimpse of your next destination and one of the most memorable cities in the world — Rio de Janeiro. Take a city tour to experience the sights of Rio, like the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue, or take a stroll along Copacabana beach.

: Get to the next spot on your route aboard a convenient and efficient ferry boat.

Meal plan: BREAKFAST

In the morning, explore the favela with a local resident on a G Adventures-supported tour to watch a drumming demonstration, get a Capoeira lesson, and sample craft beers with a new perspective of the city. Enjoy a free afternoon to discover all that Rio has to offer.

Favela Experience: Explore dynamic communities and support social enterprises on a tour led by residents of the Vidigal favela. Participate in a Capoeira session, visit an innovative community green space, sample artisanal beer made in the favela, and purchase unique handicrafts. With support from G Adventures, entrepreneurial organizations and members of the community are connected with people, ideas, and resources from around the world to grow their businesses.

Free Time: Spend the day exploring this vibrant city. Take a guided tour, catch a local football game, or relax on one of Rio's world famous beaches.

Meal plan: BREAKFAST

Depart at any time.

Departure Day: Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.

Meal plan: BREAKFAST