Buenos Aires to Rio de Janeiro: Falls & Footy

Get your South American rush with other young travellers unafraid to embrace the new. You'll kick off the adventure in sophisticated Buenos Aires before getting back to nature on day hikes at a working Uruguayan ranch. Marvel at Iguassu Falls, then hop on a flight to São Paulo on your way to the Brazilian coast — no gruelling bus ride means more time on the beach. We'll wrap up the party in Rio, where you're free to embrace the carnival atmosphere from our centrally-located Copacabana hostel.

Day 1 Buenos Aires
Arrive at any time. Soak in the energy of the bustling and trendy "Paris of the Americas" before mingling with your fellow travellers, and get excited for the adventures to come with a few drinks at the hostel.

Day 2 Buenos Aires
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.

Day 3 Buenos Aires/Colonia
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.

Day 4 Colonia/Montevideo
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.)

Day 5 Montevideo
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.

Day 6 Montevideo/Estancia Stay
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.

Day 7 Estancia Stay
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 the scenery of a nearby river. End your estancia stay in the best way possible — with a local barbecue.

Day 8 Estancia Stay/Iguassu Falls
Cross the border into Gualeguaychu in Argentina today. Unwind, relax and reflect on your travels as you begin your overnight journey to Iguassu Falls.

Day 9 Iguassu Falls
Welcome to Iguassu Falls where your next adventure awaits. 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.

Day 10 Iguassu Falls
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.

Day 11 Iguassu Falls/Paraty
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.

Day 12 Paraty
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.

Day 13 Paraty/Ilha Grande
Continue up the coast today and hop aboard a ferry to where your island paradise awaits.

Day 14 Ilha Grande
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.

Day 15 Ilha Grande/Rio de Janeiro
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.

Day 16 Rio de Janeiro
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.

Day 17 Rio de Janeiro
Depart at any time.