Sunday, February 18 – Arrival in Buenos Aires – Tour Begins
Welcome to Buenos Aires, Argentina! Today is yours to relax after an overnight flight. Explore and take in the amazing weekend markets scattered around Buenos Aires. Late this afternoon, join us for an Amazing Journeys Welcome & Group Orientation. After, we’ll enjoy a group dinner at a local restaurant nearby our hotel in Puerto Madero. (D)
Monday, February 19 – Buenos Aires
After breakfast, we set out to explore Jewish Buenos Aires, one of the largest Jewish communities in the world. During our half-day tour we’ll drive to the Once area, a neighborhood steeped in Jewish culture, and where most Jewish institutions are located including the Hebraica JCC, several synagogues, Jewish theaters and schools, as well as Rabbinical Seminaries. We’ll continue as we drive through the “Meashearim” section, where the orthodox Jewish community have made their home. We’ll visit the AMIA, the campus of many Jewish organizations which was bombed in 1994 during a terrorist attack. This Community Center provides programs for education, employment, culture, and arts. We’ll visit the memorial dedicated to the 85 deceased during the bombing, the largest attack on Jews since World War II. Our last stop will be the Libertad Synagogue for a visit inside. Founded in 1862, it was the first synagogue in Argentina and was declared a Historical National Monument in 2000.
This afternoon, enjoy free time for exploring Buenos Aires. There are so many things to see and do and we are happy to offer recommendations.
Optional: While visiting Buenos Aires, watching a tango show is a peek inside the culture that encompasses this city. The tradition started at the end of the 19th century and combines various rhythms. Originally from the poorer districts and only danced by men, the music included flutes, violins, and guitars. Later on, the flutes were replaced by the “bandoneón” (a type of accordion), which gave tango its distinctive flair and brought great musicians such as Astor Piazzolla and Anibal Troilo. For those who want to partake (optional fee) we will visit one of the most traditional tango houses, El Viejo Almacen. First, we’ll enjoy dinner and then cross the street to enjoy the tango show. We’ll return to our hotel around midnight.
For those who would rather explore one of the many areas of Buenos Aires and enjoy dinner on your own, the night is free. (B)
Tuesday, February 20 – Buenos Aires – El Calafate
Early this morning, we will transfer to the domestic airport for our flight to El Calafate.
Possibly the most famous area of Argentina, El Calafate, and the neighboring El Chalten, sit right on the edge of the Southern Ice Field, the second largest body of ice on the planet. Upon arrival we’ll transfer to our hotel, located on a beautiful lake. Walking through town, you’ll find lots of places to have a bite to eat or look at the little shops that line the main street. The lake provides a beautiful backdrop for photos.
Later, we’ll learn about the Gaucho culture as we head to “Estancia 25 de Mayo,” a typical Patagonian ranch located just a few minutes away from the downtown area of El Calafate. Getting a sense of a rural lifestyle, our visit is an ideal place to relax and enjoy the landscape at the base of Calafate Hill. Arrive at the ranch and sip on the traditional Argentinean drink, mate, and eat typical fried pasties as you get an introduction about the pioneers’ history as well as the gaucho customs. Learn about sheep shearing and rural activities. Visit the organic gardens and plant nursery. This evening, enjoy a typical dinner with Patagonian lamb at the “El Quincho” restaurant, accompanied by a folk dance show. (B, D)
Wednesday, February 21 – El Calafate
A must for all visitors to Argentina is a visit to Glacier Perito Moreno at Los Glaciares National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It forms part of the Patagonian Continental Ice Field from which 13 glaciers descend on the Atlantic side to flow into the Viedma and Argentino Lakes. The Perito Moreno Glacier is one of the few in the world which still advances, forming a wall and containing the Brazo Rico waters. The continuous slides from its frozen walls astonish you at any time throughout the year. Keep your eyes open and watch the frozen walls slide down into the Argentino Lake. Walk along the boardwalk’s catwalks and and stop at the different viewpoints to admire this breathtaking, dynamic, azure glacier. Drive back to El Calafate after this impressive tour. Los Glaciares National Park entrance is located about an hour outside of El Calafate town. Tonight is a free night to enjoy one of the many restaurants in town. (B, L)
Thursday, February 22 – El Calafate
Today we visit Upsala Glacier, one of the largest among the continental icefields. We join our boat tour on Argentina Lake and cross “Boca del Diablo”, the lake´s narrowest area and natural gateway to the Northern Canal. While the scenery turns into woods and high mountains with hanging glaciers, the boat will soon be surrounded by enormous icebergs, proof of Upsala Glacier´s regression process, until reaching the enormous front of the glacier. Our boat continues its route entering Spegazzini Canal. You will have the chance to disembark at base Spegazzini and take a pleasant trek along Bahía de Todos los Glaciares to Spegazzini shelter. We’ll enjoy lunch at the Spegazzini shelter, overlooking the lake and the glacier.
For those who want to enjoy hiking today, two opportunities are offered:
- Sendero del Bosque, about 300m from the pier to base Spegazzini. Trekk includes different stops with interesting explanations about glaciology, history, flora and fauna and offers amazing look-out points. This is an easy trek on a flat terrain.
- Sendero de la Montaña, about 700m, this is considered medium difficulty trekking through the woods offering natural look-out points.
After the hike, we’ll return back to El Calafate by coach. (B, L)
Friday, February 23 – El Calafate – Bariloche
Today we leave the El Calafate area of glaciers and icebergs and fly to the “Switzerland of Argentina,” Bariloche, located on the southern shores of the Nahuel Huapi Lake and is surrounded by mountains. Its gorgeous setting is comparable to the Swiss Alps and it is the ideal location for outdoor activities like skiing, kayaking, fishing, hiking, and white water rafting. Famous for its delicious chocolate, local beer, and European-inspired gastronomy, Bariloche’s charm will steal your heart away.
Upon arrival this afternoon, follow along as we take you to explore chocolate or beer tasting, both famous in this alpine city. This evening, join us for Shabbat services with our Amazing Journeys community, followed by a Shabbat dinner. (B, D)
Saturday, February 24 – San Carlos de Bariloche
Today we will explore the lakes and the region. On our morning tour, drive along the border of the Nahuel Huapi Lake arriving at Playa Bonita, located on Huemul Island. Soon we will reach the base of Campanario Hill where you can take an optional chair lift ride up to the top, an altitude of 3,444 ft. From here, take in the breathtaking views of the Nahuel Huapi and Moreno lakes, the Trebol pond, St. Peter’s Peninsula, Llao Llao, Victoria Island Otto Hill, the Cathedral Mountains and Bariloche. Next, we’ll continue to drive to the Llao Llao Peninsula and see the St-Edwards Chapel and the Llao Llao Hotel – two beautiful architectural buildings. Drive along forests, lakes and mountains to a natural viewpoint where you can get imposing views of Moreno Lake and the Peninsula. On the drive back to Bariloche, we’ll make a few photography stops to capture the region’s beautiful landscapes.
This afternoon, consider an optional hike. Rated as an “easy” hike, from López Bay, start your hike in the peaceful countryside. Walk along the different trails that vary between 1.5 to 2.5 miles. Enjoy being surrounded by nature and take pictures of the beautiful landscapes. Learn about native flora like Myrtle, Cipreses, Radales, coihues and Maitenes trees. From the Tristeza Arm viewpoint, take in the snow-capped mountains, Mount Tronador’s peak, waterfalls and Patagonian forests. View the grandness of Nahuel Huapi Lake. From the trek’s highest point, see Moreno Lake, Sentinel Island, and Bariloche on the horizon. Take a break to relax and have a snack and water before slowly starting your descent. On the drive back to Bariloche, make a short stop at the classic “Punto Panorámico” for a memorable picture. (B)
Sunday, February 25 – San Carlos de Bariloche
Our full day tour begins with a short drive to Pañuelo Harbor where we board our catamaran and sail across Nahuel Huapi Lake. Along the way, see Centinela Island where the National Park founder, Franciso P. Moreno is buried. After sailing for an hour, arrive at the Cántaros Harbor, entering the Valdivian Jungle. From there, we walk on a path to see Los Cántaros Lake and waterfall. Some viewpoints on the path allow you to contemplate the beauty of the falls that slide over the rocks. You’ll enjoy the green waters of Lake Frias where you’ll have a wonderful view of the three peaks of Mount Tronador Afterwards, continue by boat to Puerto Blest. Here, you’ll have free time for lunch, surrounded by stunning views. You’ll have time to walk around the Hostería and Interpretation Center. In the late afternoon, we’ll sail back to Pañuelo Harbor and return to Bariloche. This evening, we’ll join together as a group one last time and toast to a beautiful adventure in Patagonia with our Farewell Event and group dinner. (B, D)
Monday, February 26 – San Carlos de Bariloche – Buenos Aires – Tour Ends
Today is our departure day. We’ll fly from Bariloche the Buenos Aires domestic airport where we will have a transfer waiting for you for your connection to the Buenos Aires International Airport. If you are continuing with us to Iguazu Falls, we will connect to our flight to Iguazu Falls in Argentina. (B)
Our Hotels:
Night 1-2 Hotel Madero, Puerto Madero, Buenos Aires
Night 3-5 Hotel Xelena, El Calafate
Night 6-8 Hotel Cacique Inacayal, Bariloche
Please note:
1) Alternate hotels may be utilized.
2) Smaller buses, which may not be lavatory equipped, may be used on this program. In this case, frequent stops are made during travel periods.
3) This tour requires average physical activity. You should be in good health, able to climb stairs and walk reasonable distances, possibly over uneven grounds.
4) The itinerary may change due to changed flight schedules or traffic delays.
5) The highest altitude is 9,842 feet above sea level.
Items listed on this website are subject to change at any time. By providing payment you agree to the terms and conditions as outlined on this website. All rooms are non-smoking.
Cancellation Policy: From the time of deposit until September 12, 2023, there is a $200 penalty for cancellation. From September 13 – October 10, 2023, there is a $450 penalty for cancellation. From October 11 – November 9, 2023, the cancellation penalty is the amount of the deposit. From November 10 – December 13, 2023, the cancellation penalty is 50% of the total package price including airfare, Iguazu Falls post-tour package and pre- or post-night hotels. From December 14, 2023 until the day of travel, the cancellation penalty is 100% of the total package price including airfare, Iguazu Falls post-tour package and pre- or post-night hotels. Cancellations made on the day of departure and “no-shows” will receive no refund. There is no refund in the event of interruption or cancellation by the passenger after the start of the journey.
Travel Protection: A travel protection plan is recommended for participation in this program. Information will be sent with tour confirmation.
Flights and Transfers: International flights are not included and it is up to the participant to secure their flights. Domestic flights within Argentina have not been included with the cost of the tour. These will be purchased separately when registering for the tour. The cost of three internal flights is $999 for the main tour. If you are joining us for the post-tour to Iguazu Falls, the combined airfare for five internal flights is $1598.
You will be flying into and out of Buenos Aires (EZE) for the main tour and the extension to Iguazu Falls. More details will be sent to you with your tour confirmation with flight perimeters. Please do not purchase your international flights until you have received a confirmation letter from Amazing Journeys via email.
Transfers from the Buenos Aires International Airport (EZE) at the start of the tour are not included. We will be sending additional information for getting to our starting hotel at a later time. Transfers are included at the end of the tour from the domestic airport in Buenos Aires (AEP) to the international airport (EZE).
Luggage is limited to one suitcase weighing no more than 33 pounds for this tour.
Passports & Visas: A valid passport is required. Passports must be valid for six months beyond the last day of the trip. Visa requirements for Argentina and Brazil change often. Currently, a Brazilian visa is required for those going to Iguazu Falls from the US, Canada and Australia. The cost of the visa for a US citizen is currently $70 USD. There may also be a minimal processing fee. Details will be sent at a later date. Rates and requirements may change at any time. For those who are citizens from countries other than the US, please consult the Embassy of Argentina and Brazil in your country of residence for visa requirements.
Twin Accommodations: Twin accommodations are available if you and a friend are traveling together. When signing up for twin occupancy, should one of the roommates cancel, the remaining traveling roommate will assume the cost of a single supplement. Standard cancellation terms apply to any cancellation.
Vaccines: There may be required vaccines and recommendations necessary in order to travel on this itinerary. We recommend you visit a travel clinic or see your health professional. Requirements can change at any time. It is recommended you bring along an official government issued Covid-19 proof of vaccination card as countries and venues along the way may still require it and you may be denied entry without.
Fuel Surcharges: Should fuel charges be instituted for travel on this itinerary, the fees will be passed along to our travelers.
Exchange Rate: In the case of currency fluctuations greater than 3%, we reserve the right to adjust our pricing accordingly in order that we may be able to operate the tour effectively.
Taxes & Gratuities: Taxes and gratuities have been included in the cost of the tour package. These include baggage handling (one bag per person), local guides, drivers and meal servers for included features. We are unable to tip the hotel staff on your behalf and we leave that up to you. Taxes, surcharges, visa fees and government fees are subject to change.
Activity Level- 3 out of 5: For this tour, you like to be on-the-go when you travel. You are happy to be on the move with early mornings, full days and walking tours, sometimes covering 1 – 2 hours of walking at a time, over a variety of terrain from cobblestone streets to easy pathways. You can navigate hills and uneven ground and climb into various modes of transportation.
