England, Scotland & Wales. The Adventure Begins.
True Small Group means Never More than 10 to 16 Guests, Guaranteed.
A Very Special Welcome Letter...
12 or 14 Days Heart of South America Small Group Tour
Dear Travel Enthusiast,
Our True Small-Group Tour • Our Hotels are located in the Heart of the cities ~ No Taxis or Shuttles needed to get to heart of the city. • A True Small-Group® Tour Experience with 10 to 16 guests, guaranteed. • We do not Up-Sell excursions on the tour - ever - admissions are already included per the itinerary. • Gratuities are always included for local tour guides, wait staff, and drivers. Gratuities for Tour Captain not included. • Select Dinners with wine or other premium beverage included, per itinerary. • Daily Full Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 5 Unique Dinners.
Story Land & Sea® Tours extends a personal invitation for you to join us on the Heart of South America Tour - it's the trip of a lifetime, and one tour you won't soon forget. From the time you arrive, your satisfaction and sense of real discovery is what we consider as priority! Let us help you book your "Dream Time" Tour Vacation.
~ Mark Story, Executive Director
South America Differently Story Land & Sea®'s Heart of South America Tour is not your typical tour experience. Experience deluxe accommodations, worldclass service from your Tour Captain , and an itinerary that truly captures the spirit, culture, and people of South America. It starts in Santiago, Chile. A visit to the exciting Plaza de Armas ,which boasts beautiful fountains, sculptures, and great opportunities for shopping, as well as people watching. Valparaiso Port Area wineries are featured today, along with Valparaiso Historic Center, a World Heritage by UNESCO sight. Mendoza, Argentina Andes Mountain Range, historical area of Alameda, and the famous General San Martin Park. Lujon or Uco Valley Wine is big business in South America, and these two valleys boast great varietals. Special Story® Exclusive lunch included today. Iguazu Falls Found at the meeting point of Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay, the Big Water of the Iguazu River is one of the original 7 Natural Wonders of the World. Buenos Aires Plaza de Mayo and Authentic Estancia BBQ. Find out why more and more travelers are opting to 'Leave the Herd Behind', while discovering the many authentic experiences and Heart of South America on a Story Land & Sea® Tour.
International Flight Your international flight is not included in your tour package, however, we can arrange your air travel through our Story® Air Service Department. We'll work with you to get the absolutely lowest fare available based on your travel preferences. We utilize both our own air department and online agencies to find the best rate.
The trip is fully-hosted by our professional Story Tour Captain and complemented by our local, expert tour guides. Story's Heart of South America Tour is the perfectly balanced adventure through this beautiful continent.
WELCOME TO CHILE Arrival into Santiago, Chile
Story Way® Dining: Join your Tour Captain tonight for our included Welcome Dinner.
Included arrival transfers The cosmopolitan Santiago de Chile, capital of the country and political and administrative center, is considered the safest Latin American city, and enjoys the backdrop of the Andes, beautiful views from the hills, and excellent restaurants. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your Santiago hotel for check in. This afternoon you will meet your tour Captain for a wonderful orientation walkabout. There will be a little time to relax before our Welcome to South America reception and dinner.
A True Small-Group of 6 to 16 Travelers ~ Hotels Really in Center of Town ~ Unique Dining Venues — No Set Menus ~ No Up-Selling while Traveling
Accommodation: The Singular Hotel or Similar (3 nights)
City Tour of Santiago Optional Dining: Join your Tour Captain tonight for an optional dinner, or explore on your own.
This morning after a nice breakfast, we will meet our local guide in the lobby of the hotel, and set out to discover some of the highlights of Santiago with our driving/walking tour. We will begin with a visit to the Cementerio General de Santiago: Chile’s Grand and Historic Cemetery. Named one of the World’s Most Scenic Cemeteries by CNN, Santiago’s sprawling Cementerio General is definitely worth a visit. Afterwards, we will make our way to the historical center of Santiago, and begin with a stroll to the city's most important plaza, the Plaza de Armas, which has been the heart of Santiago since its origin in 1541. Ringing the plaza are many important buildings that are considered national monuments. Here you see the Correo Central (main post
Santiago, Chile
office), Iglesia Catedral (Cathedral Church), the Municipalidad de Santiago (City Hall), the National Historic Museum, Pre-Columbian. Nearby, we will visit the Mercado Central (Central Market), an elegant wrought-iron structure inaugurated in 1872 as the site of a National Exhibition. Now it is the city's central market, where we can sample a few of the local dishes for lunch, before returning to our hotel for an afternoon at leisure.
Winery Experience CASABLANCA VALLEY WITH VALPARAISO
Meeting with our private English speaking guide at the hotel, we depart to Casablanca Valley, a prestigious wine area, where the conditions and characteristics of the soil make it similar to Napa Valley, California. We first visit the winery Emiliana, placing emphasis on the wines of organic origin. After tasting different premium wines, we continue to winery Mar, with 250 hectares planted with fine French vines. We will visit the cellar and do a tasting of its wines. Afterwards, we will transfer to the wonderful winery Casas del Bosque, founded in 1993 as a boutique winery, and exclusively oriented to the production of high quality wines.
After having lunch at its prestigious restaurant Tanino, (on own) we continue to the city and port of Valparaiso. The city and port of Valparaiso is hanging on the hills, and its historic center was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. During the tour, we visit the elegant Victoria Square (famous for the interesting sculptures brought from Lima at the end of the Pacific War between Peru and Chile), the heart of the city (Sotomayor Square and Pratt Pier), as well as the different hills with their charming ancient elevators and multicolor houses. Returning in the late afternoon, you will enjoy the balance of the day at leisure.
Mendoza, Argentina FROM CHILE TO MENDOZA, ARGENTINA
Story Way® Dining: Join your Tour Captain tonight for an included dinner. This morning we say goodbye to Chile and make our way to Argentina. We will transfer to the airport, where we will take a short air-hop to Mendoza. Upon arrival, we will make our way to the hotel by way of the city of Alameda, as an introduction to the City. In Mendoza, we check in to our hotel and meet our TC for an orientation walkabout. Accommodation: Park Hyatt Mendoza or similar (3 Nights)
Mendoza Mendoza - Historic Walking Tour Optional Dining: Join your Tour Captain tonight for an optional dinner, or explore on your own. This morning we are off to discover the city highlights of Mendoza. Today´s half day tour will take you through the places that give identity to Mendoza City, one of the world’s Great Wine Capitals. Our first destination is the Peatonal Sarmiento. This pedestrian street was inaugurated in 1989, and runs through the heart of the city. We will pass cafes and bars, the San Martin Gallery, the Church of San Nicolas, the Provincial Legislature, and the Stock Exchange.
Mt. Aconcagua, in the background, is the highest peak in both the southern and western hemispheres at 6,961 metres (22,838 ft).
A short while later, we will arrive at Plaza Independencia, where we will have the chance to meet the local artists and see the material they use to make crafts typical of our province. The Emilio Civit Avenue is next, and we´ll be transported into a quiet Mendoza that once moved to the leisurely pace of horse-drawn carts. Upper-class people built their houses on this luxury avenue that was declared a cultural heritage. Finally, the majestic General San Martin Park gates will welcome and invite us to pass through for the last stop of our tour. Returning in the early afternoon, you will have time to shop, stroll, and explore as you wish.
Wine Tour Lujon Valley Included Dining: Lunch This morning, after a relaxing breakfast, we will set out into the beautiful Argentine countryside for a great day of wine. In the Luján de Cuyo wine region, the past meets the present. Here, Argentina's best Malbecs are produced in quaint historic wineries and modern boutique wineries, which make for a unique wine tasting day with interesting contrasts and, of course, some great views of the Andes. Today you will learn about the production facilities and the different styles of wine-making, and you will be tasting the local gastronomy. You will visit 3 of the region´s most prestigious wineries, where you will have guided tours and the opportunity to taste their different lines of wine. At midday, you will enjoy a winery lunch at one of the wineries (Gourmet lunch: 4 courses/ 4 wines). After lunch, we return to the city with a clear picture of the diversity involved in the world of wine, the gastronomy, and Mendoza's landscape. The remainder of the afternoon, you will have plenty of time to relax before dinner this evening.
Iguazu Falls FLIGHT TO IGUAZU FALLS Included Dining: Join your Tour Captain tonight for an included dinner. This morning we will have time for a nice breakfast, and then set off for our flight to Iguazu Falls. Upon arrival, we will check in to our hotel and set out with the Tour Captain to explore our surroundings and enjoy the resort.
Iguazu Falls Immersion TOUR OF THE PARK WITH WATER BOAT RIDE INTO THE FALLS After breakfast, you will depart on a full day tour to the Argentine side of the Iguazu Falls, where you will have intimate views of this unforgettable section of the Iguazu River. A guide will show you the hidden gems of this unique National Park, and will take you off the beaten path to show you the best views. Lower and upper walkways permit up close and personal experiences with this magnificent spectacle of nature. Trails through the 210 square mile reserve provide visitors with various views of the Falls, especially the largest one, Devil's Throat. The ecological train ride is included in the tour.
Buenos Aires
Return to the hotel in the late afternoon. Note that in the park there are different excursions you can take for an additional cost. On the “Gran Aventura” you can sail the river and get closer to the falls (Please be aware on the boat trip there is a 100% chance that you will get wet...the Falls provide a refreshing “natural shower”. Be sure to take some extra clothes if you want to do this excursion.). This day will be a real adventure, full of thrills and spills, and is an absolute must for the adventurer at heart.
Iguazu Falls To Buenos Aires SHORT FLIGHT TO BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINA Included Dining: Join your Tour Captain tonight for an included dinner. Story Land&Sea® Special: Tango lesson and show. After breakfast, we set off for Buenos Aries. Once again, we will transfer to the Iguazu Falls airport for our air hop to Buenos Aries. Upon arrival, we will check in and do a wonderful orientation walk with time for lunch. After lunch, we will have a walking tour in Recoleta for 2 hours, then return to the hotel to get ready for a truly delightful evening to enjoy the National dance, the Tango. Along with a lesson and show, we will enjoy a very nice dinner and all the Malbec you'd like.
Buenos Aires HISTORIC WALKING TOUR OF BUENOS AIRES This morning we will join our wonderful local guide to learn about this vibrant city. Your city exploration starts with the symbol of the city, the Obelisk. This giant monument was built in 1936 to commemorate the 400th anniversary of the city. One of the city's unique features is the many beautiful open squares of colonial Spanish descent. You'll fall in love with Plaza de Mayo, Plaza San MartĂn, or Plaza Congreso. The avenues are lined with equally impressive sights, including favorites like Corrientes, Mayo, and 9 de Julio. Discover architecture in historic neighborhoods like La Boca, San Telmo, and Montserrat. The afternoon is yours to craft as you wish.
Pampas DAY IN THE PAMPAS Included Dining: Join your Tour Captain tonight for an included reception & dinner. Today we will enjoy a full day to experience an estancia (ranch) and enjoy Argentina`s countryside. We will enjoy a great barbecue, and you will have time to go on a horse ride and enjoy folkloric music. Returning in the afternoon, there is plenty of time for your last minute shopping and self exploration of Buenos Aires.
The Pampas of Argentina
Rio de Janeiro
Departure Day or Extend Your Trip to Rio de Janeiro DEPARTURE FOR HOME FROM BUENOS AIRES TODAY OR CHOOSE TO EXTEND YOUR TRIP TO RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL, AS LISTED BELOW.
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: Expand Your Discovery Optional Dinner Tonight: Join your Tour Captain tonight for an optional dinner, or explore on your own.
This morning we are off to the airport once more for international flights home, or to Rio if you are extending. If you are extending your tour, you will arrive to Rio and check in to your wonderful hotel. Meeting your Tour Captain in the lobby of the Hotel at a pre-determined time, you will set out to explore your surroundings before dinner. Accommodation: Hotel Sol Ipanema Best Western or similar. (2 nights)
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Rio Immersion Tour SECOND DAY IN RIO Optional Dinner Tonight: Join your Tour Captain tonight for an optional dinner, or explore on your own. This morning you will join our local guide and journey by cogwheel train to the summit of majestic Corcovado, site of the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Back down the mountain, see the song-inspiring Copacabana and Ipanema beaches. The rest of the day is at leisure.
Departure Day FLIGHT BACK HOME TODAY This morning you will be transferred to the Rio airport for your international flight home.
Argentine vineyard.
Argentine beef steak. Delicioso!
A South American Gaucho with distinctive silver knife.
Small Group Tour Information YOUR DELUXE TRUE SMALL-GROUP TOUR INCLUDES:
~ Enjoy a True Small Group of never more than 16 Travelers. Guaranteed. No waiting on big groups on big buses. ~ Hotels in the heart of the cities and towns. Not on the outskirts of town, so no shuttles or special transfers needed. ~ We Never Upsell while On Tour. See any of the mainstream tour operator itineraries to South America, and you will see very quickly how their "tour directors" make extra revenue. ~ Gratuities are included for your Local Guides, Wait Staff, and Drivers. ~ Off-the-Beaten-Path and unique Restaurants throughout the itinerary. Authentic restaurants that fit our group size. 12-14 Days Heart of South America True Small-GroupÂŽ Tour. Services of full-time, experienced guides and a professional Tour Captain. SIGHTSEEING Comprehensive daily sightseeing per itinerary via private transportation with experienced, local driver. Admission & entrance fees to all sightseeing as detailed per itinerary. DAILY BREAKFAST, SOME LUNCHES AND DINNERS Full, hot breakfast daily. Lunches and dinner included per itinerary. Coffee or tea included with breakfast only; all other beverages are extra. Select dinners are included at unique restaurants. PORTAGE Portage (one suitcase per person) and all tipping (driver, restaurant, hotel and guide staff) included. Extra bag portaged for $130 per bag. Story Land & Sea luggage tags upon arrival at the first hotel. SOLO TRAVELERS
~ All Admissions and Sightseeing as defined on itinerary. ~ Portage Included through your Small Group Tour. ~ Services of professional Tour director called a Tour Captain. The Tour Captain serves as your host throughout the trip to ensure everything goes according to the journey's plan. ~ Services of Professional Guides. We use professional, certified guides for our sightseeing at select venues and sites throughout the Small Group Tour. PASSPORTS: A valid passport is required and must be obtained in person by each tour member at a local passport office. LODGING & ACCOMMODATIONS Tour prices are per person, based on two persons sharing double or twin-bedded room with private bathroom with tub or shower. Single rooms subject to availability and at an additional cost (tour participants without a roommate will have to pay the single room surcharge). Hotels used are based on your itinerary. SERVICE CHARGES AND TAXES: All departure taxes and tipping are included. INSURANCE
Story Land & Sea highly recommends trip cancellation and in-
terruption coverage. We recommend www.TravelexInsurance.com. Enter location code of 06-0051 to associate any purchase with your Story Land & SeaÂŽ vacation.
Single Supplement applies. See Dates & Rates Tab. PASSPORTS & VISAS Travel documents are your responsibility, including compliance with customs regulations.
STORY LAND & SEA TOURS' SOUTH AMERICA TOUR VACATION At Story Land & Sea Tours, we offer hosted South American tours with a Tour Captain who provides you with world-class service throughout the tour.