APRIL 2025

Day 1 – Friday 13:  Welcome to Buenos Aires

On arrival, meet your private transfer from International Airport to the Hotel, then sit back and cruise into the beautiful city of Buenos Aires.

The name, Buenos Aires, literally means “good airs” in Spanish. It is one of the largest cities in Latin America, with a fascinating culture and stunning sights. Being the capital of the country makes it the starting point for most of the exploration of Argentina, so let yourself be seduced by its busy and beautiful streets, full of Tango aromas and a passion for life (and polo) – a unique mixture that turns your stay into an exceptional urban adventure.

Overnight Accommodation:  Palladio Hotel MGallery

Day 2 – Saturday 14:  Exploring this gorgeous city and your welcome dinner

Buenos Aires is one of the most fascinating cities in both Latin America and the world.  Today we will enjoy a half day tour to showcase the highlights and then the afternoon is yours to explore your BA.

Whether it be its splendid and varied architecture, with its old colonial buildings, French palaces, and state-of-the-art skyscrapers; or its vibrant nightlife and endless cultural options; or maybe just for the rich identity of the Porteños, who proudly bear the European heritage of their ancestors, more and more visitors are coming to visit.

Visit Plaza de Mayo, the city’s foundational site, and witness our country’s political history. There we’ll visit the Pink House, our Presidential Palace, the Cabildo, our primitive town hall, and the Neoclassical-style Metropolitan Cathedral, the final home of Argentina’s founding father, José de San Martín.

We’ll come across sumptuous French palaces again in Palermo Chico, the area of Palermo best known for its large parks designed by celebrated landscape architects, such as the illustrious Frenchman Charles Thays.

In Retiro and Recoleta, we will learn about the dream of our local aristocrats in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, when they sought to build a small-scale Paris in the heart of Buenos Aires. After visiting the impressive Plaza San Martín, where Jorge Luis Borges used to take his walks, we’ll stroll down Avenida Alvear, chosen by the world’s most distinguished brands to install their exclusive boutiques, looking up to see the many wonderful French-style palaces which nowadays house a number of embassies.

Then we’ll visit the Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar, one of the city’s oldest churches, which dates to the colonial era. Finally, we’ll admire the celebrated Recoleta Cemetery, a true labyrinth of ornate mausoleums. We’ll make a stop at Eva Peron’s grave, one of the country’s most recognizable icons.

We’ll visit Puerto Madero, the latest addition to the city’s barrios. In 1991, its huge warehouses and silos were remodeled and redesigned, to finally integrate the river to the city and to create a new corporative, residential, hotel, and gastronomically district, which has become the playground for the pretty Porteños and the international jet-set.

We’ll then head for San Telmo, one of the oldest neighbourhoods in Buenos Aires.  It used to be the residential district favoured by the upper class until the late 19th century when a yellow fever epidemic caused the wealthier families to leave northwards. The area was marginalised until the 1970s when many artists and artisans came to San Telmo to install their workshops. Nowadays, thanks to its amazing architecture and hip atmosphere, this ancient neighborhood is really blooming. We’ll walk its cobbled streets, where the city’s colonial past seems to come back to life, making a stop at Plaza Dorrego, best known for its traditional antiques fair, held every Sunday.

Leaving San Telmo behind, we’ll continue southwards to La Boca, one of the city’s most authentic and charming neighborhoods. It is a working-class district, heavily shaped by Italian immigrants who came to our country in large numbers during the last quarter of the 19th century. Here, we’ll make a special visit to the mythical Caminito Street, which sums up everything that gives La Boca its distinctive spirit: the strong passion for soccer, the heavy presence of art and color, and the Tango-esque atmosphere.

Return to the hotel for the afternoon at leisure and then time to frock up for your welcome dinner.

This welcome dinner will introduce you to the delights of Argentinian wine and dining!

Tonight, discover the Asado tradition, served with a twist. At Fogón, you will experience a closed-door dining experience that explores new ways of serving Argentine Asado classics. While seated at the bar you’ll see, feel and experience different grill cooking techniques, up close and personal. The aim is to create a memorable evening for each guest, beyond your regular steakhouse expectations.  Every Argentine’s Asado is unique but always includes the best cuts of meat available and fire roasted seasonal vegetables. The chefs have designed tonight’s tasting menu to combine new grill techniques with tried and true Argentine recipes, that elevate the Asado to new heights. The optional wine pairing has also been designed to best enhance the flavours of the ingredients, while presenting you with some of the best boutique wines from Argentina.

Overnight Accommodation:  Palladio Hotel MGallery

Included Meals:  Breakfast, Dinner

Day 3 – Sunday 15:  An empanada masterclass & tango time

This morning discover Argentina through its flavours, with a cooking lesson that gives an insight into some of the classics of this diverse country!

The mixture of European and indigenous influences marks a gastronomy that is increasingly recognised throughout the world. The richness of Argentine history, culture, and biodiversity finds its expression in the gastronomy. One of the typical Argentine dishes that stands out is the Empanadas.

Paula Comparatore, is well-known El Federal’s owner and chef, who teaches the secrets of Argentine regional food.  She is a chef and gastronomic consultant in Argentina, Canada, Mexico, and Chile with extensive experience in creating menus and gastronomic proposals for various companies. As this is a personalised cooking class, you are welcome to participate in the process as much or as little as you wish. Paula will tell you how to prepare Empanadas using the freshest and most varied ingredients. She demonstrates her technique for making empanadas and she also shares many personal stories that connect her to this traditional Latin American dish. After cooking you will enjoy the dishes you cooked, paired with specially selected Argentine wines.

This afternoon is at leisure.  There is an optional shopping experience available for those who would enjoy some ‘targeted retail therapy’. The city offers beautiful shopping options providing you know where to go and this experience will take you to it’s closed-door shopping scene, galleries and more.

Then this evening it is time for Tango, a dance and culture that goes to the very heart of Buenos Aires.

Located inside the exclusive Faena Hotel, Rojo Tango – a cabaret designed by Phillippe Starck – is passion, madness, and glamour in a history that ends transforming itself into a legend. Rojo Tango is a fascinating proposal that seduces all the senses combining sounds, fragrances, colors, movements, and flavours.  Enjoy dinner and wine whilst being immersed into the unforgettable experience.

Overnight Accommodation:  Palladio Hotel MGallery

Included Meals:  Breakfast, Lunch

Day 4 – Monday 16:  Hello Mendoza

After breakfast, check out and then a transfer to the airport for your flight from Buenos Aires to Mendoza.    .

Mendoza is the capital city of the homonymous Province, in Argentina. It is located 1,037 kilometers away from Buenos Aires, in a region of foothills and high plains, on the eastern side of the Andes. This beautiful city is the fourth-largest metropolitan area in the country and it is surrounded by the largest wine-producing area in Latin America. As one of nine cities worldwide in the network of Great Capitals of Wine, Mendoza offers the perfect destination to enjoy the best Argentinean wine while exploring a few of the hundred wineries and dazzling landscapes of this region.

Time for art and wine.  Only an artist with Liliana’s sensitivity, born in this wine-growing province, can transmit the magic of wine through art.

Welcome to Parada de Arte: “Pinceladas de Malbec”.   You will be able to enter the world of art through a painting workshop, playing with strokes made with organic red and white wine, leaving your soul and senses free, to create your own unique picture . In this way, we can unite two artistic expressions, Mendoza wine and a visit to an atelier framed in a rural landscape surrounded by vineyards, olive groves, and Andes. The person in charge of guiding this situation of experiences and sensations is the plastic artist Liliana Callejón, who is self-taught and born in Mendoza, developing herself in her homeland and abroad. Only an artist with Liliana’s sensitivity, born in this wine-growing province, can transmit the magic of wine through art. In addition to taking the workshop, you can visit her atelier and observe her rich career and evolution of her personality through the different samples that she has in the place.

Then to your lovely home for the next few nights, Posada Verde Oliva where you will enjoy lunch.

Dinner is at leisure this evening.

Overnight Accommodation:  Posada Verde Oliva

Included Meals:  Breakfast, Lunch

Day 5 – Tuesday 17:  Time to explore some local wine

We will start with Familia Blanco Winery, which is located at Finca Don Gabriel in the Los Cerrillos-Alto Agrelo area, in Luján de Cuyo. This is an intimate visit and tasting led by the owners of the winery.  Enjoy a relaxed talk and learn everything about the wines, the winery, and the family.

Then we continue to Susana Balbo Winery, and enjoy a blending game and wine paired lunch.

This modern, expansive, winery produces rich, concentrated Malbec and it is owned by one of Argentina’s most famous winemakers, a pioneer indeed.

This family project, created by Susana Balbo, is dedicated to high-quality wine-making. Susana Balbo Wines offers the opportunity to discover Argentina’s typical varietals as well as cutting-edge wines through themed wine tastings that focus on enhancing each of the wines’ charm & potential.   Susana Balbo was recently recognised as one of the 10 Most Influential Women in Wine by The Drinks Business.  She is the only woman selected from Argentina, and this is the second time she has been included on the list of pioneering women who are pushing the limits in the wine industry across the globe. She first appeared on the list in 2012, and in 2015 Drinks Business also named her “Woman of the Year”.

Then it’s time to be a winemaker for the day! To make the blend, you will be presented with 3 bottles of different varietals, along with a descriptor of its characteristics and what they would add to define a style. Then, you have to name your creation and give it a brand, while you enjoy a glass of Ben Marco Expresivo or Susana Balbo Brioso.  Then you will enjoy a delicious lunch consisting of 4 courses of regional cuisine, paired with five of their Premium wines with the beautiful view of the Andes in the back.

Overnight Accommodation:  Posada Verde Oliva

Included Meals:  Breakfast, Lunch and wine tasting as detailed

Day 6 – Wednesday 18:  Wine & ranch time

After breakfast this morning, you will visit Domain Bousquet Winery, a highly awarded organic wine producer. The winery is dedicated to farming organically while improving the land’s biodiversity. They think the healthier the vineyard, the better the fruit will be and of course, the wine too. Organic agriculture and production help to protect and sustain the land and the environment for future generations. Why this winery? Anne Bousquet and her relationship with the wine industry began at a very young age: “I grew up in a wine family, in the city of Carcassonne, southwestern France,” says Anne Bousquet, president and co-founder of the Domaine Bousquet winery. She remembers that “at 10 years old, being surrounded by vineyards and during harvest times, everything became magical, wonderful. “In the 90s, Argentina was the destination chosen by her father to take the first steps in planting organic vineyards. In an area that defined as “unique, virgin and fertile as Gualtallary was in Valle de Uco, Mendoza, where we are today.”   Within the framework of “Women in Industry II”, the creator of “Domaine Bousquet”, the largest winery producing and exporting wines made exclusively with certified organic grapes from our country, expressed her ideas and commitment to “continue growing in the post to protect the land and the environment.”

We will then continue to visit Los Chulengos Mountain Ranch where you will meet the Palma family and enjoy a BBQ lunch.  In the Uco Valley surrounded by the Andes Mountain, you will find Estancia Los Chulengos. This historical ranch is an untouched natural beauty located only one and a half hours from the city of Mendoza. Los Chulengos is a magically unique place, ideal for those who want to relax and rest, as well as the perfect place for the more adventurous. Here you can enjoy activities while being surrounded by grand valleys, magnificent peaks of the Andes, and a beautiful winding river that meanders back and forth across the property.

The ranch is managed by Ana, Manuela, and Ines (Palma sisters), opening it up to visitors when their family isn’t using it as their gathering spot. Los Chulengos is one of our favourite places to enjoy a glass of Malbec and take in the Mendoza countryside. A true taste of traditional Argentine culture.  The ideal spot to enjoy nature, good home-made food, and exquisite wines, chatting and sharing with locals, born and raised in the area, the amazing Andes Mountain range, and the land of wine and sun.

Return to the hotel for the evening.

Overnight Accommodation:  Posada Verde Oliva

Included Meals:  Breakfast, Lunch and wine tasting as detailed

Day 7 – Thursday 19:  To Cafayate

This morning a private transfer from hotel to Mendoza Airport for your flight from Mendoza to Salta and then to Cafayate.

This area is still very much a hidden treasure of Argentina (and another favourite). The charm and the character of this area lie in the culture and folklore of its people, in the architecture of its small towns, in the traditions and customs present in its markets, its food, its music, and its religious festivities. A mix of Pre-Columbian civilisations (it was the southernmost outpost of the Inca Empire) and Spanish colonial past (the city of Salta, the gateway city to visit this area, is the best preserved Spanish colonial city in Argentina). The landscapes are breathtaking, with the Andes as background. Desert, cactus, high altitude salt lakes, llamas crossing the Puna.   An incredible variety of colours, climates and activities.

Before departing Salta for Cafayate, you will enjoy lunch at the House of Jasmines.

After, we will drive out of the city of Salta on the road south of the Lerma Valley. We will drive one- and-a-half hours south on Route 68, where we will see the amazing foothills of the Andes Mountains, stopping for coffee. We will then drive through the breathtaking Quebrada de las Conchas, formed about 50 million years ago. This quebrada, or canyon, has intense colours and spectacular geological formations formed by the concentration of different minerals in the soil. We will stop at different points to observe the rock formations and how the light changes them throughout the day. You can take short walks to take a closer look at the formations.

After leaving the canyon, we will enter the Calchaquí Valleys, a region that was of economic importance during the colonial era (after the 1600s) for its cattle breeding and the production of spices, grains and wine, some of which was taken by mule as far away as the Atacama Desert in Chile.

Today, Cafayate is the heart of high-altitude wine country, where vines are grown 1,700 meters above sea level, giving them enhanced aromas and flavours. Cafayate has become known for its boutique wineries and vineyards where you can eat traditional foods paired with a bottle of high-altitude malbec or torrontés. After walking around the town and visiting its silver and tapestry handicraft markets, we will check into the hotel.

Then this evening time for dinner at Bad Brothers.

The Bad Brothers Wine Experience offers visitors  a warm and inviting home in Cafayate to celebrate the Calchaqui Valley’s rich wine culture, listen to music, enjoy great food, and spend time with friends.  Art lovers will enjoy their gallery of prints from up-and-coming Argentine artist Esteban Diaz Mauthe, as well as the largest collection of antique mint-condition cigar box labels in Argentina.

Overnight Accommodation:  Patios de Cafayate Wine Hotel

Included Meals:  Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8 – Friday 20:  Sightseeing & Wine

We will leave mid-morning from the hotel to visit some of the most exclusive vineyards and wineries of Cafayate.

Firstly, a short drive into town, where we will stop to visit the Museo de la Vid y el Vino (The Vine and Wine Museum) and learn about the beauty of the magnificent terroir wines of the Calchaquí Valleys.

Today, Cafayate is the heart of the high-altitude wine region, where vines are grown 1,700 meters above sea level, giving them enhanced aromas and flavours.

After the visit, we head to El Porvenir Winery to enjoy a tasting and a delicious lunch.  Apart from being one of the most stunning landscapes and a rustic boutique winery, El Porvenir Winery and Restaurant are both run by women.   Lucia Romero, who is the director of the winery is a vintner, entrepreneur, mother and third-generation vineyard owner, Lucía’s future was mapped out when she took her first steps at her grandfather’s finca. Born and raised in Salta, Lucía is a hands-on leader who has spearheaded El Porvenir de Cafayate’s exports and product development. Equipping herself with a Wine MBA taken at Bordeaux Business School, and after completing with honors the WSET Addvanced Program, she has driven the bodega forward as its director since 2013, on a quest to continue unveiling Cafayate’s new expressions.

This evening, at sunset we head to the Amalaya Winery to enjoy a delicious dinner accompanied by local musicians.

Overnight Accommodation:  Patios de Cafayate Wine Hotel

Included Meals:  Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, wine tastings as detailed

Day 9 – Saturday 21: To Cachi we go

This morning, we will depart right after breakfast and begin an amazing drive through the Calchaquí Valleys: thirty minutes after departure, we will drive by the town of San Carlos then  through the contrasting Quebrada de las Flechas (The Arrow Ravine), an outstanding white landscape that has been carved through the intense water and wind erosion among thousands of years of work of nature.

We will see some beef breeding farms as Angostura and El Carmen and then reach the town of Molinos home, of the last Spanish governor of Salta: Don Nicolas Severo de Isasmendi.

Then we will arrive at the oasis of Colomé. You will be received by Constanza Bearzi, the Hospitality Manager, always attentive to detail so that each guest lives their Colome experience in the best way.  Colomé is not only a visit for wine, but also for the spirit, since you will learn about ancient culture and witness the different shapes of light. After visiting this unique altitude winery and tasting its exquisite wines, we will continue to Cachi.

Check in to your hotel and then the evening is at leisure.

Overnight Accommodation:  La Merced del Alto Hotel & Spa

Included Meals:  Breakfast, Lunch

Day 10 – Sunday 22:  An archeological site walk, yoga & the Isasmendi winery

We will leave after breakfast from your hotel and drive up to the foothills of the Nevado de Cachi Mountains, where you can walk around the Las Pailas archaeological site. The archaeological settlements of the Calchaquí Valleys date back to 5,000 BC. These communities of hunters and gatherers arrived in the valley following the herds of vicuñas and guanacos. They settled along the Calchaquí river, where their community grew to become one of the biggest communities in the north of Argentina. Our local guide will teach us about their ancient culture and customs.

Then you will enjoy a yoga class surrounded by these wonderful landscapes. After relaxing and having a snack, we will return to the town of Cachi, for a wine-paired lunch at Isasmendi winery. Here we will be hosted by its founder and director of enology and viticulture Sylvie Bonnal.  The Bodega Isasmendi family works day by day with dedication, enthusiasm, and patience to bring to the consumer a unique experience, where terroir, quality, history, and family spirit converge.

Overnight Accommodation:  La Merced del Alto Hotel & Spa

Included Meals:  Breakfast, Lunch, wine tastings as detailed

Day 11 – Monday 23:  Exploring Salta at leisure

This morning we depart from Cachi for Salta.   We will drive to Los Cardones National Park, created in 1986 to protect cacti diversity and guanacos and then head to an area called Piedra del Molino, where we will reach an altitude of 3,450 meters above sea level. Piedra del Molino is a millstone that was too heavy for the mules to take it down into the valley as had been planned. It has since become a popular destination to visit.

From here, we will drive down the breathtaking Cuesta del Obispo, a spectacular winding road that zigzags down the foothills of the Andes, descending 1,000 meters over 20 kilometres. After stopping for refreshments in the village of Maray, we will continue on the winding road to Quebrada de Escoipe, where the landscape gradually transitions from high-altitude grassy vegetation into a beautiful lush jungle called Yungas. We will drive through Lerma Valley, a fertile valley, before reaching Salta.

You have the rest of the day free to explore the beautiful town of Salta, where you can choose to indulge in some retail, just meander or kick back at your hotel.

Overnight Accommodation:  Balcon de la Plaza Boutique Hotel

Included Meals:  Breakfast

Day 12 – Tuesday 24: To Iguazu Falls, a travel day

Today we farewell the Salta region and it is time to head to the magnificent Iguazu Falls.  A transfer to the airport and the day is spent travelling to Iguazu.

Check into Gran Melia, with views over the falls and time to chill.

Overnight Accommodation:  Gran Melia Iguazu Hotel

Included Meals:  Breakfast

Day 13 – Wednesday 25:  Exploring Iguazu & your farewell dinner

The Iguazú National Park is located in the northwest of the province of Misiones and preserves the ecosystem of the Paraná jungle, an ecological region that covers almost the entire provincial territory. Its natural treasure is the Iguazú Falls: 275 waterfalls that reach an altitude of almost 80 meters (260 feet). Declared one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature in the World and also, Natural Heritage of Humanity. The Lower Circuit is made up of a trail approximately 1.3 km (0.6 miles) long that allows us to get closer to some of the smallest waterfalls on the Argentinian side.

We will walk along the path,  and we will approach the Carlos Bozzetti waterfall.  The Superior Circuit, allows us to see the top of the majestic waterfalls on the Argentinian side and enjoy an impressive panoramic view of the area. The view stretches from the Argentinian Falls to San Martin Island and parts of the Brazilian Falls.

The Devil’s Throat is the largest waterfall in the region and where the greatest amount of water flows through the Iguazú Falls. At an impressive altitude of 107 meters (350 feet), the Devil’s Throat is a must-see feature of Iguazu Falls. Thanks to the newly built walkway, it is possible to get quite close.

Following your visit, enjoy an exclusive lunch at the hotel with stunning views of the National Park and the Iguazu Falls.

Then time for your farewell dinner – a unique, memorable interactive dining experience that allows you to delve into all aspects of Argentine cuisine and culture. Sit back and enjoy a mouthwatering meal, and learn how to prepare some of the key ingredients. Wine, steak, empanadas, sweets, and Mate all in one unforgettable culinary extravaganza.  A unique dinner party concept that will teach you the fundamentals of what being an Argentine is all about.

While enjoying your meal, a sommelier will teach you about another key Argentine element the “Malbec” wine.  Of which you will be an expert by now!

Overnight Accommodation:  Gran Melia Iguazu Hotel

Included Meals:  Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 14 – Thursday 26:  Time to say farewell

Sadly all good things must come to an end.  This morning we board our flight to Buenos Aires and here you meet connections to your next destination, or for those who wish to linger longer, head back into the city…

Thanks and see you again soon!

Included Meals:  Breakfast

Tour Price: 

Twin:    AUD $17,995 per person

Single:  AUD $21,890 per person

Internal Airfare Supplement:  AUD$830* for  economy class flights – Buenos Aires/Mendoza/Salta/Iguazu/Buenos Aires

PRICE INCLUDES:

• Fully escorted by Jane Thomson OAM, Founder & CEO of The Fabulous Ladies Wine Society
• 3 nights’ luxury 5-star run-of-house accommodation, Palladio Hotel M Gallery, Buenos Aires
• 3 nights’ boutique run-of-house accommodation, Posada Verde Oliva, Mendoza
• 2 nights’ luxury 5-star run-of-house accommodation, Patios de Cafayate Wine Hotel, Cafayate
• 2 nights’ boutique Standard room accommodation, La Merced del Alto Hotel & Spa, Cachi
• 1 night’s boutique Classic room accommodation, Balcon de la Plaza Boutique Hotel, Salta
• 2 nights’ 5-star Deluxe Falls View room accommodation, Gran Melia Iguazu Hotel, Iguazu Falls
• Private arrival transfer Airport – Palladio Hotel
• Breakfast daily
• 13 main meals, a combination of lunches & dinners including wine
• Wine tastings & exclusive visits as detailed in the itinerary
• Private guided experiences as detailed in the itinerary
• English speaking guides throughout
• Private transport throughout, with fresh water onboard
• Government taxes

Not Included:

Airfares unless stated in the itinerary; items of a personal nature; phone calls; passport and visas (if applicable); entry fees into countries charged at the airport; laundry or tips. Personal transport; excess baggage; security and additional government taxes not covered already; travel insurance. Meals not specifically mentioned in the itinerary; beverages unless specifically described. Optional excursions or activities that may be offered but are not included in the tour price.  Camera tickets at sights were allowed.

Hotels are a blend of 5-star sophistication in Buenos Aires, Iguazu and Cafayete.  In other destinations the accommodation primarily consists of local boutique hotels, mansions that have been converted to hotels.  Most have only 10 rooms.  Rooms sizes at older hotels will vary in size due to the age of the properties.

Buenos Aires:

M-Gallery Palladio Hotel:

The hotel boasts 113 spacious and elegant rooms with modern decoration and luxury materials. All rooms stand out for their superb luminosity and large double glazed windows, with private balcony and incredible view of the city. The luxurious bathrooms covered in marble have double sink and separate shower. All rooms feature complimentary WIFI, minibar, tea & expresso machine, In-room safe suitable for a laptop, desk and 24-hour room service.

Salta:

Balcon de la Plaza Boutique Hotel: