Buenos Aires to Rio de Janeiro

12 days - from $2050

Buenos Aires and Rio de Janeiro are two of South America's most famous gateway cities. If you are pressed for time but would like to take in the major highlights of this region, then this short overland adventure between these two great cities is for you. Our trip begins in Buenos Aires, South America's most stylish city. We have time to explore this great metropolis before heading northwards to the borders with Brazil and Paraguay, and to the incredible Iguazu Falls. They are 20 metres higher than the Niagara Falls and the chance to get up close is bound to be a highlight of our tour. We explore the falls from both the Argentine and Brazilian sides, before travelling eastward to join Brazil's most spectacular train ride, the Serra Verde Express, as it winds its way down from the mountains and through pristine rainforests to the Atlantic coast. We enjoy a beautiful trek through the forest along the Itupava Colonial Trail, before descending to the seaside town of Paranagua and the World Heritage-listed Superagui National Park. Last but certainly not least is colourful and vibrant Rio de Janeiro, resplendent with its stunning setting and beautiful sandy beaches.

Highlights

• Rio de Janeiro
• The Serra Verde Express
• UNESCO World Heritage-listed Iguaçu Falls
• Honey Island's ecological paradise
• Christ the Redeemer
• Colourful La Boca
• Recoleta Cemetery and Eva Peron’s tomb
• The 'Devil’s Throat' of Iguazu
• Argentina's capital Buenos Aires

Itinerary:

Day 1: Buenos Aires2-3: Buenos Aires - overnight bus4-5: Iguazu Falls - overnight bus6: Curitiba - Atlantic Rainforest7-8: Paranagua - Honey Island9: Honey Island - Curitiba - overnight bus10-11: Rio de Janeiro12: Rio de Janeiro

What's It Like?

Gecko's adventures offer authentic experiences and a genuine alternative to backpacking. Our trips are designed for younger travelers on a budget but do include the entrance fees to the ‘must see’ sights while not wasting your money on unnecessary frills. Itineraries utilize public transport and basic twin share accommodations in small locally owned hotels, the occasional multi-share, or simply floor space in a jungle or village hut. Many trips involve some physical activity, the occasional long traveling day and you will need to carry your own bags. On camping trips, meals are freshly prepared by our camp cook, but expect to put up and take down your tent, and assist with camp chores. On all trips we only use local tour leaders who are passionate about their homeland. This is travel, grassroots style - basic but rewarding.

Included:

An experienced local tour guide in Argentina and Brazil, and there will be the services of local guides at some sites. All transportation, accommodation, sightseeing and meals as indicated.

International flights, arrival and departure transfers, departure and airport taxes, visas, all other meals, entrance to Sugarloaf, all optional tours or activities during free time, transfers outside of the tour program, travel insurance, tips and items of a personal nature.