South American Wine Tour
WINE • CUSINE • CULTURE
Chile and Argentina, lands where the Andes soar against an endless sky, where vineyards yield world-renowned wines, and where vibrant cities pulse with culture and history. This journey through the heart of South America brings you face to face with the spirit of these lands—from the cool-climate wines of Chile’s Casablanca Valley to Argentina’s high-altitude Torrontés and bold Malbecs. Imagine sipping exceptional vintages as you explore stunning valleys, savoring the art of winemaking alongside traditional flavors, and wandering the vibrant streets of Santiago, Valparaiso, and Buenos Aires. This itinerary invites you to discover the distinctive terroirs, landscapes, and traditions of South America’s wine capitals, where each glass holds a story as rich as the soil from which it came.
Day 1: Arrival in Santiago, Chile & Transfer to Casablanca Valley
Your journey begins as you touch down in Santiago, Chile, where you’re greeted by your personal guide, eager to share the warmth and beauty of the country. Leaving the bustle of the city behind, you embark on a scenic drive to the renowned Casablanca Valley. Lush vineyards blanket the landscape, stretching out beneath the Chilean sky, with your hotel nestled within one of the valley’s most celebrated estates. After settling in, savor a leisurely lunch that showcases the region’s fresh, vibrant flavors, including local seafood and seasonal produce paired with crisp, aromatic white wines. The afternoon invites you on an intimate tour of the winery where you’ll discover winemaking processes unique to Casablanca, known for its Sauvignon Blancs and cool-climate varietals. As the sun begins to set, unwind with a gentle stroll through the vineyard trails, soaking in the serenity and natural beauty that surround you.
Day 2: Casablanca Valley & Coastal Valparaiso
The day begins with an exclusive visit to an esteemed, family-owned winery in the heart of Casablanca Valley. Known for its traditional methods and reverence for the land, the estate offers an immersive tour through its cellars and vineyards, detailing how ancestral practices are preserved alongside innovative winemaking. After sampling wines with a distinctive terroir, embark on a short drive to Valparaiso, the lively port city bursting with creativity and color. Here, vibrant murals grace the hilly streets, and bustling markets offer an authentic taste of local life. A guided walk reveals Valparaiso’s layered history, from its early days as a major trading hub to its modern-day reputation as a haven for artists. Enjoy a lunch at a terrace restaurant overlooking the bay, taking in views of the Pacific. Return to your tranquil hotel in Casablanca for a restful evening among the vines.
Day 3: Maipo Valley’s Carménères & Cabernets, Santiago
Today, you’ll venture into the Maipo Valley, Chile’s oldest wine-producing region and a legendary source of bold Carménères and Cabernets. Begin with a morning tour of a historic estate, where you’ll learn about the region’s distinct climate, soil, and winemaking techniques that bring richness to each vintage. Sample a selection of wines known for their depth and complexity, savoring each sip in the serene setting of the vineyard. After a leisurely lunch overlooking the valley, return to Santiago and settle into your city hotel. The evening offers free time to explore Santiago’s charming neighborhoods at your own pace. Perhaps sample local fare at a traditional restaurant or relax at a sidewalk café, watching the city come alive as night falls.
Day 4: Santiago City Tour
Immerse yourself in Santiago’s history and culture with a guided tour of the city’s highlights. Begin at the heart of Santiago, the bustling Plaza de Armas, where historic architecture surrounds you. Visit the grand Santiago Cathedral and the Mint, learning about the city’s Spanish colonial past and its journey to modernity. Continue to Mercado Central, Santiago’s famed fish market, where the vibrant stalls and lively atmosphere capture the essence of Chilean cuisine. Here, you can sample fresh seafood or savor a snack prepared with local ingredients. Later, a wine tasting at one of Santiago’s iconic bars introduces you to Chilean varietals from different regions, each with a unique story. Wrap up the day with a memorable dinner at one of Santiago’s top restaurants, indulging in an array of culinary delights.
Day 5: Salta
Arriving in Salta, Argentina, marks your entry into the breathtakingly rugged northwest, a region defined by its Andean landscapes and vibrant culture. After settling into your luxury wine hotel, spend the afternoon with a guided tour of Salta’s colonial heart. As you wander the cobbled streets, soak in the city’s Spanish architecture, richly decorated churches, and vibrant plazas, like Plaza 9 de Julio. Visit the Cathedral of Salta, a masterpiece of ornate colonial style, and the MAAM (Museum of High Altitude Archaeology), where Incan artifacts and mummies from high mountain shrines tell the region's ancient stories. End the day with a relaxing dinner at a local restaurant, sampling Andean-inspired dishes and an introduction to regional wines like Torrontés, known for its aromatic qualities and crisp flavor.
Day 6: Cafayate Valley & Estancia
Begin your day with a drive to the scenic Cafayate Valley, one of Argentina’s prime wine-growing regions known for its unique high-altitude terroir. On your way, pass through the stunning landscapes of Quebrada de las Conchas, famous for its colorful rock formations like the Amphitheater and Devil's Throat. Upon reaching Cafayate, visit a renowned vineyard to sample wines crafted in the region’s distinct climate, with cool nights and warm days. After lunch, continue to Estancia Colomé, one of Argentina’s oldest wineries, where you’ll be welcomed by local gauchos who share their deep-rooted traditions and lifestyle. The estancia’s unique, biodynamic approach to winemaking is evident as you tour the cellars, then enjoy a tasting with varietals that embody the rugged essence of the Andes. Return to your hotel in Salta for a relaxing evening.
Day 7: Flight to Mendoza, Argentina
Today, a brief flight takes you over the Andes to Mendoza, Argentina’s renowned wine capital. After settling into your hotel, you’ll be introduced to Mendoza with a guided overview tour, strolling through its charming streets and historic sites. The evening is yours to unwind and explore the city’s vibrant dining scene. From cozy wine bars to fine restaurants, Mendoza offers a culinary journey in itself, allowing you to sample the rich, bold wines for which the region is famous.
Day 8: Mendoza Wines & Olive Oil Production
Kick off the day with a visit to a prestigious winery in Mendoza, where robust reds like Malbec shine. Your expert local guide will accompany you as you explore the premier wine districts of Luján de Cuyo, Maipú, Guaymallén, and Godoy Cruz. These areas, known as Primera Zona, produce exceptional Malbec and other varieties, thanks to their unique microclimates. Discover the distinctive features of Mendoza’s terroir, from its altitude to its sunny climate, and how these influence the bold flavors of its wines. You’ll visit a mix of boutique and renowned wineries, gaining insights into traditional and modern winemaking techniques. Each winery will host tastings, led by their in-house guides. Conclude with a gourmet tasting lunch at a celebrated bodega restaurant, like La Tupina or Ruca Malen, where regional flavors pair perfectly with the wines you’ve sampled. After lunch, you’ll head to an olive oil production facility, where traditional pressing methods reveal the care and expertise that go into every bottle. You'll have the evening to wander through the vineyard or simply relax.
Day 9: Uco Valley
Today, venture into the scenic Uco Valley, beginning with a visit to an iconic winery. Known for its bold architecture and pioneering role in Argentine winemaking, this winery offers both impressive views and exceptional tastings. A picturesque drive through the valley concludes at a state-of-the-art Bodega, where you’ll learn about their commitment to producing wines of exceptional quality. The vineyard tour, nestled among the stunning Andean backdrop, is both educational and picturesque. Following the tour, enjoy a gourmet lunch prepared with local ingredients and paired with wines that highlight the terroir of the Uco Valley. Spend the evening at a charming lodge, where you can stroll the vineyard paths or relax with a glass of wine, soaking in the tranquil mountain vistas.
Day 10: High-Altitude Vineyards
Continue your exploration of the Uco Valley’s high-altitude vineyards, starting with a visit to a prestigious wine collective founded by acclaimed an acclaimed winemaker. The tasting highlights how the valley’s unique altitude and soil composition create wines of remarkable character. Move on to another renowned winery for a laid-back lunch, savoring dishes crafted to complement the valley’s award-winning wines. Return to your lodge in the evening for a peaceful night, unwinding with a glass of wine under the vast, starry sky.
Day 11: Buenos Aires City Tour
Start your day with a comprehensive tour of Buenos Aires, delving into the city’s rich cultural, historical, and architectural heritage. Visit iconic sites like Plaza de Mayo, the Metropolitan Cathedral, and the colorful neighborhood of La Boca, known for its vibrant arts scene and tango traditions.
In the afternoon, embark on an exclusive full-day Buenos Aires gourmet experience, immersing yourself in the city’s evolving food culture. Begin with an introduction to Argentine cuisine, exploring its influences and culinary heritage that shape today’s ‘La Nueva Cocina Argentina’ movement. Savor a classic lunch in the lively La Boca district, guided by a culinary expert. Later meet a renowned chef at who will share his innovative techniques in a private demonstration of his signature dish. Round off your day with a wine-tasting session, sampling the diverse wines of Argentina from Salta to Patagonia. After, visit one of the city’s premier wine stores, where you can purchase exceptional wines. End the evening with a gourmet tasting menu at one of the city’s top restaurants: Tarquino, El Baqueano, or Aramburu.
Day 12: Leisure Day in Buenos Aires
Your final full day in Buenos Aires is for your own exploration. Stroll through the trendy Palermo Soho neighborhood, where vibrant street art and chic boutiques make for a perfect afternoon of shopping and sightseeing. Stop by the MALBA (Museum of Latin American Art) to see iconic works by Argentine and Latin American artists, or unwind at El Rosedal, a serene rose garden in the city’s sprawling Palermo parks. For lunch, sample empanadas at a local café, then perhaps indulge in Buenos Aires’ café culture at one of its historic coffee houses. As the sun sets, a local guide can introduce you to a milonga, where locals come to dance tango, and you can experience firsthand this deeply Argentine tradition. Or, for a relaxing evening, enjoy a quiet dinner, reminiscing on the journey’s highlights.
Optional Extensions
Estancia Visit: Spend an unforgettable day at a traditional Argentine estancia (ranch), where you’ll experience authentic gaucho culture. Upon arrival, friendly gauchos welcome you to their world, sharing insights into Argentina’s rural traditions and daily life on the pampas. Embark on a horseback ride across vast, open landscapes, and soak in the serene beauty of Argentina’s countryside. For lunch, enjoy a classic Argentine asado, or barbecue, where sizzling cuts of meat, fresh salads, and artisanal bread are served alfresco. Engage in activities like cattle herding, a polo lesson, fishing, or traditional folk dancing before returning to Buenos Aires for a relaxed evening.
Iguazu Falls: Extend your adventure with a trip to the stunning Iguazu Falls, a natural wonder located on the border between Argentina and Brazil. Upon arrival, set out to explore the Argentine side of the falls, where an intricate network of trails and walkways bring you up close to the thundering cascades, including the iconic Devil’s Throat. Take a boat ride to experience the falls from below, feeling the mist and energy of the powerful waters. The Brazilian side offers panoramic views, allowing you to appreciate the vast scope of Iguazu’s 275 falls. In the evening, unwind at a peaceful jungle lodge, savoring a quiet dinner surrounded by the sounds of the rainforest.
As you leave the captivating landscapes and flavors of Chile and Argentina behind, you’ll carry with you memories of majestic mountains, exquisite wines, and the warmth of South American hospitality. Whether wandering the cobbled streets of colonial towns, savoring high-altitude wines beneath a star-lit sky, or experiencing the artistry of tango in Buenos Aires, this journey has woven together the essence of these two remarkable countries. If you're inspired to plan your own South American adventure, whether it’s to explore vineyards, iconic cities, or natural wonders, please reach out—we’d love to help you create your next unforgettable journey.
Cheers to the world of wine and wanderlust!
ACERA BENEFITS EXCLUSIVELY FOR YOU
No matter where you stay, you’ll enjoy some of these exclusive amenities at our partner hotels around the world. Our ‘preferred partner’ status with our travel partners gives you access to complimentary benefits and unadvertised experiences, at some of the finest hotels across the globe.
✧ Breakfast Daily
✧ Hotel Credit
✧ Upgrade and Early check-in/late check-out, whenever possible