Incredible Argentina.

House of Travel Calder and Lawson’s Loris Sowman offers up an ideal itinerary that samples the best of South America — mountains, salt flats, waterfalls, culture and wine — all easily found in one stunning country.

DAYS 1,2&3: SIGHTSEEING IN BUENOS AIRES.

Begin in Recoleta, one of the city’s most elegant historic neighbourhoods. Visit classic eatery Fervor (Posadas 1519, CABA) for a drool-inducing introduction to Argentine dining. On a tour of this thoroughly European-feeling city, you’ll find stunning parks, Parisian buildings and Recoleta Cemetery, where fresh flowers surround Evita’s mausoleum. Then step back in time with a tango show. The following day, explore hip ’hood Palermo and taste the local beers at Dársena. Later, take a seat at Fogón Asado (Uriarte 1423, Palermo) for a night that’s one part traditional grilling demo and three parts feast. It’s single-sitting, so your consultant should book early.

DAYS 4&5: THE WINERIES OF CAFAYATE.

Time to head for the hills (and the wineries)! After a short flight, find yourself in a landscape of sweeping red and wind-sculpted hills. It deserves a leisurely drive, but with wineries waiting, you won’t want to linger. The small town of Cafayate boasts an exceptional wine museum. You’ll learn why the region’s unique climate produces such celebrated grapes. Just outside of town are incredible luxury resorts, but no matter where you base, you’re perfectly situated for wine tastings. A day tour allows you to visit a few vineyards. Buy a few extra bottles for the coming days!

DAY 6: EXPLORE SALTA CITY.

Bid “hasta la proxima” to the vineyards and head for historic Salta City. The city centre is home to funky museums as well as immaculately maintained churches like the candy-coloured Iglesia de la Viña. For dinner, visit a traditional Peña, a restaurant where singing at the table is encouraged. Many say Salta is home to the best empanadas (meat-filled pockets of heaven): Follow the locals to Doña Salta (46 Córdoba, Salta).

DAYS 7&8: HILLS & SALT.

The road to the salt flats of Jujuy Province climbs steadily through watercolour hills before levelling off at a cool 3450m. In every direction, spot cheerful weathered gauchos on horseback. The air is thin but a blue sky sparkles nearly every day. Expanses of salt stretch endlessly, the perfect spot for a picnic. Stay the night in tiny Purmamarca, untouched by time but replete with creature comforts. Then return to Salta City for your flight to Iguazú Falls.

DAYS 9 &10: IGUAZÚ FALLS.

From the dry northwest of Salta, arrive to tropical Iguazú Falls. No waterfall on earth matches it. With over 275 individual falls cascading together, we recommend visiting both the Argentine and Brazilian sides for the full experience. The Argentine side offers a change to stand over the falls, while the Brazil side sets you in the heart of the falls to peer up through millions of rainbows. Don’t miss the Great Adventure Boat Tour under some of the falls — yes, you’ll get wet! Then head back to Buenos Aires on a quick flight.

DAYS 11 &12: BUENOS AIRES.

Once back in the bustle of Buenos Aires, options are endless. You might take in a performance at the famed Teatro Colón or head for a short drive out of the city to dine with real gauchos at one of the nearby working estancias. Call in for a creamy café con leche at historic Café Tortoni (Av. de Mayo 825), the city’s oldest, and stroll by the aptly named Casa Rosada and wild bright colours of the iconic La Boca neighbourhood. Perhaps there’s time for one last empanada? ■

The sights and tastes of Argentina await. Come in-store, call us on 0800 713 715 or visit HOT.CO.NZ today and we’ll have you heading to South America.