An exclusive wine & food journey with
ARGENTINA
Your date here
12-24
Guests
10 / 9
Days / Nights
20
Meals
Join your hosts for the journey of a lifetime to the high altitude vineyards and brilliant landscapes of Argentina. Experience the Old World elegance of Buenos Aires before journeying west toward the Andes Mountains to the wine regions of Salta and Mendoza where the distinctive cuisine, world-class wines, and spectacular scenery are waiting to be discovered.
Learn
about the varietals, terroirs, and winemaking methods of the region from small and large producers
Explore
the rugged beauty and expansive mountainous landscape
Taste
traditional grilled meats, empanadas, and flavorful high altitude wines
Day 1
Buenos Aires
Land in the Ezeiza International Airport where an Experi representative will greet you in the arrivals area, assist with your luggage, and transport you to your accommodations where you will have time to relax and unwind. Later, gather at a local wine shop for an aperitif and private welcome dinner featuring Argentine asado—an elaborate meal of grilled meat and one of the most important culinary traditions in this country where cattle outnumber people. Mingle with the owner who will share his stories and extensive knowledge of the wines and winemakers of Argentina as we kick off our journey.
Day 2
Buenos Aires
After breakfast, venture out with a local guide to explore the vibrant city of Buenos Aires, known for its European flair. Visit historical neighborhoods, landmarks, and monuments, admire colonial architecture, and learn how an unprecedented influx of European immigrants has shaped the city over the past two centuries. Lunch at a local restaurant is included in our day. As part of our tour, we will see the exclusive neighborhood of Recoleta, where the final resting place of Evita Perón is found and tour the Teatro Colón, considered one of the world’s best opera houses. After returning to the hotel, the remainder of your afternoon and evening provides time to explore the many offerings of Buenos Aires. Your Travel Director is happy to share recommendations upon request.
Day 3
Salta
Check out of your hotel this morning and transfer to the airport for a just over two-hour flight to Salta. Known for its diverse topography and spectacular scenery as well as its centuries-old Andean heritage, Incan influence, and Spanish colonial traditions, Salta is a world away from cosmopolitan Buenos Aires. After a quick lunch in Salta, we will settle into offroad vehicles for the rugged winding journey through the high desert to our base in Molinos. En route, pass through the Parque Nacional los Cardones, known for its cacti-lined trade route that has been in use for 10,000 years. While the road is narrow and rough in parts, covering dry riverbeds and crossing streams, the incredible landscape surrounding us will make it an adventure to remember! Arrive at our traditional hacienda accommodations in Molinos this evening where we will have time to enjoy the peaceful setting and share a meal.
Day 4
Colomé
Today we head to the high altitude vineyards of Salta province, traveling over twisting gravel roads. Our first stop will be a tour and tasting at Bodega Tacuil, operated by the Dávalos family, where we will learn about the unique characteristics of the soil, climate, mountainside vineyard locations, and altitude that produce grapes with greater concentrations of tannins. Our next stop is Bodega Colomé, the oldest winery in Argentina, established in 1831. The winery changed owners many times over the years, finally landing in the hands of international winemaker Donald Hess who has pursued a dream of making premium wines from some of the highest-altitude vineyards in the world. Here we will enjoy a wine tasting as well as a leisurely late lunch. Afterward, return to Molinos where the evening will be open for dinner at the hotel, a stroll through the small town, or a glass of wine in the courtyard of the hacienda.
Day 5
Ruta 40 | Cafayate
We will get an early start this morning, journeying south on the legendary Ruta 40 toward Cafayate. Our journey will again take us over rough unpaved roads through the Calchaqui River Valley as we cross the Quebrada de las Flechas canyon, a natural monument made up of eroded cliffs and dramatic rock formations jutting out in steep angles to the road. Once in Cafayate, we will visit a traditional family-run winery that focuses on a small production of high-quality wines. Afterward, savor a casual multi-course wine-paired lunch in this beautiful high-altitude setting. From here a short drive will bring us to our hotel where the remainder of the afternoon and evening will be open. Optional activities that we could help you arrange while in Cafayate include a self-guided visit to the wine museum in town, a cooking class, or a horseback ride through the spectacular scenery with a gaucho.
Day 6
Cafayate
Today we further immerse ourselves in this region famous for its distinctive Torrontés wines. After a leisurely morning, we’ll head to a local winery and deepen our understanding of the unique microclimate of Cafayate and its effect on the character of the wines. This afternoon, optional activities include a round of golf at the property, a scenic hike or bicycle ride in the surrounding vineyards, or a rejuvenating visit to the spa. Tonight we venture south across a river bed to a modern estancia on the outskirts of Cafayate where we toast our high altitude wine experience during a traditional dinner. The winery, with vineyards at over 5,700 feet above sea level, embraces an ancient technique with a modern twist to produce the high-quality wines that we will sample.
Day 7
Mendoza
After we check out this morning we head back north for the last leg of our Salta loop— a memorable scenic drive to the Salta airport to catch our flight to Mendoza. Our 3.5 hour drive will take us through the stunning red rock formations of Quebrada de las Conchas, including highlights such as the Amphitheater and Devil’s Throat, formed over millions of years by wind and water erosion. Following the one hour 40 minute flight, a quick transfer will take us to our hotel in the center of downtown Mendoza on historic Plaza Independencia, where the remainder of the day will be free to relax and explore the culture and nightlife of one of the great wine capitals of the world. Step outside the hotel and stroll the tree-lined streets filled with shops and cafes, take in the growing gastronomic scene, or sip red wine in a traditional old-time pulpería (tavern). Your Travel Director will be happy to assist with recommendations.
Day 8
Uco Valley
After breakfast, we will set out to explore the high-altitude winemaking of the Uco Valley. Known locally as the Valle de Uco despite not being a true valley, the picturesque region is flanked by the Andes on one side and flatlands and pampas on the other and sits at an elevation of 3,000-5,000 feet above sea level. The terroir is pure high desert and conducive to growing quality wine grapes, including the region’s world-famous Malbec grape. Enjoy tours and tastings at two distinguished area wineries and learn about their methods and winemaking heritage. While in the Uco Valley, we’ll sit down to a wine-paired lunch where we’ll have the opportunity to sample regional specialties. After an excellent day of wine, return to Mendoza for an open evening. Once again, your Travel Director is available to provide guidance if needed.
Day 9
Luján de Cuyo
For our final day in Mendoza, we turn to the Agrelo sub-district of Luján de Cuyo, known for its red varieties including Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon. We will visit Bodegas Caro, located in the heart of Mendoza, which is the result of the alliance between two wine cultures (French and Argentine), two grape varieties (Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec), and two distinguished wine families, the Rothschild family (Château Lafite) and the Catena family. Next, we visit Catena Zapata, world-renowned for revolutionizing the quality and reputation of Argentine Malbec. Our last stop of the day is Casa El Enemigo, where we will savor a leisurely wine-paired farewell lunch showcasing regional flavors. Tonight, we gather one last time for a festive farewell as we toast to our journey!
Day 10
San Carlos de Bariloche
After breakfast take a private transfer to the Mendoza Airport. A connection in Buenos Aires will take you to the alpine town of San Carlos de Bariloche, known to locals as Bariloche. Situated on the shore of Nahuel Huapi Lake in the province of Rio Negro, Bariloche is the gateway to the Patagonia region of Argentina and known for its chalet-style architecture, specialty chocolatiers (Bariloche is considered the chocolate capital of Argentina), and the beauty of its National Park, Nahuel Huapi. An Experi representative will greet you at the airport and transfer you to your accommodations where the remainder of the day is open to settle into your hotel, explore your surroundings, and enjoy dramatic views of the water and Patagonia mountains.
Day 11
Bariloche
After breakfast, enjoy time to explore the town of Bariloche. While native tribes have a long history in the area, the modern history of Bariloche dates back to the early 20th century when German settlers established the town and were followed by waves of German-speaking immigrants. Their influence is found in the food and the architecture of Bariloche where a stroll in the Centro Cívico (or city center) of Bariloche reveals Swiss-style log and stone buildings as well as numerous craft breweries and chocolate shops. To learn more about the region, visit the Museo de la Patagonia, which contains exhibits relating to the history of the area, including archaeological finds, natural history, and indigenous artifacts.
Day 12
Nahuel Huapi
Today, venture out to explore the natural wonders of the area with an expert local guide. Drive along the shores of the crystalline glacial lake and stop at Cerro Campanario and enjoy a hike or chairlift ride to the peak where you will have an unsurpassed panoramic view of the area. Other options today could include a boat excursion to more secluded parts of the lake or an opportunity to kayak or horseback riding with a guide. After soaking up the outdoors, enjoy a wine-paired meal tonight at one of Bariloche’s top restaurants.
Day 10
Aconcagua Valley
This morning, we depart Mendoza, heading west toward Chile. The paved road climbs gently through rugged mountain scenery for approximately 3 hours until we reach the Cristo Redentor tunnel, which marks the border between Argentina and Chile. Emerging into Chile, we'll be met with magnificent views of the switchbacks below and of South America's highest peak, Aconcagua.
Dropping down into the Aconcagua Valley, we will visit Flaherty Wines, a small boutique winery at the hand of the renowned winemaker Ed Flaherty and self-trained chef Jen Hoover. We will enjoy a tasting of their wines, spend time with one of the winemakers/owners, and enjoy an intimate three-course lunch paired with their wines. After an afternoon of great wine, food, and conversation, we’ll reach our accommodations in Santiago.
Day 11
Casablanca
Our adventures today will take us through the Curacavi Valley to the Casablanca region, known for its cool climate wines due to its proximity to the Pacific Coast. Our first stop will be Villard Fine Wines, run by experienced winemaker Thierry Villard and his French-Chilean son Charlie. Accompanied by either Thierry or Charlie, we’ll visit their premium block with a view over the entire vineyard, hear about their dedication to excellence in cool climate wines and taste five of their premium wines including their top Syrah, Tanagra.
We'll also make a stop at Bodegas RE, the innovators of the region, and meet ninth-generation winemaker Pablo Morande. Enjoy a delicious four-course lunch prepared by a local chef and paired with their specially selected unique wines.
The last winery for the day is family-owned and operated Kingston Family Wines, located closer to the Pacific Coast. The family’s story in Chile started with the arrival of Carl John Kingston from Michigan, who came to prospect for gold in the early 1900s and settled on a farm in the Casablanca Valley. With close ties to the Napa Valley, Kingston blends their knowledge of Chilean terroir with their international roots. After this visit, we'll return to the property for an open evening.
Day 12
Santiago Gastronomy
Our focus today will be on the culinary contrasts and local food and culture of Santiago. We'll start in the Plaza de Armas and walk north to the Market District, experiencing Chile’s culinary traditions and market culture as we walk through the bustle of the working market that supplies much of the city with its fresh goods.
During our market tour, we'll try home-style dishes like Porotos (beans), enjoy a refreshing Mote con Huesillo, which Chileans themselves can’t decide if it’s a dessert or a drink, and other typical Chilean treats. We'll wrap up our time in the market with some seafood in Mercado Central paired with a crisp glass of Chilean white wine. Then, we'll have some time to explore the city together before stopping at a gourmet chocolate shop and artisan ice cream shop for dessert.
Returning to the hotel in the late afternoon, the remainder of the day will be free.
Day 13
Alto Maipo
Today we start with an exploration of the heritage and history of premium wine brand Don Melchor. We'll tour the private gardens of founder Melchor’s summer home, the historic wine cellar, and the Don Melchor Casona (manor house), which retains its original 19th-century style. We'll then taste a variety of Don Melchor wines and end with a visit to the Don Melchor Collection room, which houses every vintage of Don Melchor since 1987.
Our next stop will be the beautiful Viña Santa Rita, with exclusive access to parts of the historic property, including the gardens of their exclusive hotel, the neo-gothic chapel, and the “cal y canto” cellars. We'll enjoy a tasting of three wines, including the much-awarded Casa Real, before sitting down to a four-course wine-paired lunch in Santa Rita’s restaurant, La Casa de Doña Paula, named in honor of the brave previous-owner of the main house of Hacienda Santa Rita, 200 years ago. Afterward we'll return to our hotel to enjoy our last evening in Santiago.
Accommodations
Hotel Madero Buenos Aires
This contemporary hotel is located at the southern end of the modern waterfront neighborhood of Puerto Madero. The property features a restaurant and bar, spa, fitness center, indoor pool, and views over the historic docklands and downtown. Spacious rooms have private balconies and offer air conditioning, minibar, safe, and complimentary WiFi as well as private bathrooms with toiletries and hair dryer.
Hacienda de Molinos
This traditional hacienda in the Andean foothills of Salta province dates back to the colonial days of the 18th century when it was home to the last royal governor. The refurbished property has retained its original adobe walls and features a lovely patio, pool, and gardens where guests can relax and unwind. Rooms feature original carob tree ceilings, traditional Andean creole décor of tiled floors, white linen, and iron-post beds – the emphasis is on keeping them looking and feeling cool. En-suite bathrooms come equipped with bathtubs and showers.
Grace Cafayate Hotel
Set amid vineyards in Cafayate wine country, this boutique hotel offers mountain views and a variety of amenities and activities, including an indoor/outdoor pool, wine bar, restaurant, garden, fitness center, tennis, golf, and spa. Rooms offer free WiFi, air conditioning, mini bar, safe, and bathrobe and slippers, while bathrooms offer separate tub and walk-in rain shower, toiletries, and hair dryer.
Park Hyatt Mendoza
Centrally located on Plaza de la Independencia, Park Hyatt Mendoza offers an attractive and contemporary base for exploring the Mendoza wine region. The property has a restaurant and bar, outdoor pool, health club, spa, and casino and houses an art collection featuring the works of renowned local artists. Rooms feature sleek minimalist decor and offer air conditioning, TV, mini bar, safe deposit box, and free WiFi. Elegant bathrooms have a walk-in shower and large bathtub as well as toiletries and hair dryer.
Charming Luxury Lodge (EXTENSION)
Perched on the shores of Nauel Huapi lake, the lodge provides a peaceful retreat in a beautiful secluded setting. The property has an outdoor heated pool, hot tub, sauna, gym, and restaurant. Suite-style rooms feature TV, mini bar, safe deposit box, free WiFi, and comfortable beds with Egyptian cotton duvets and pillow menu. En suite bathrooms have a Jacuzzi tub with lake view, heated towel bar, walk-in shower, as well as toiletries and hair dryer.
The Singular Santiago (extension only)
Located in the cultural and historical hub of Santiago, The Singular Santiago, Lastarria Hotel invites guests to embody its unique spirit through relaxation and singular satisfaction. Providing excellent service in an elegant atmosphere, the hotel offers perfectly balanced architecture, distinctive design and gastronomy which integrates the essence of the area. An array of experiences, flavours and rest in Chile’s cultural gallery awaits you.
The Fine Print
Questions? Get in touch.
Details
Dates
Flight Information
Activity Level
This trip has been designed to include daily exploratory walks that range from one to three hours. Each day, whether touring a city or winery, guests should be prepared to be on their feet for multiple continuous hours. Guests should feel comfortable strolling along cobbled surfaces, walking up and down stairs, and sauntering down uneven nature paths. Certain rural areas are more difficult to navigate for those with limited mobility and may lack elevators or smooth pavement. Typically, our more invigorating walks are included as optional activities. If your mobility is limited in any way, or if you have questions, please contact our Guest Services team at guestservices@experi.com.
Note: Group maximum is based on double occupancy. The itinerary is subject to change or substitution at any time. You can learn more at experi.com/agreement.
Included
- Nine nights accommodations, including all taxes and fees
- Two internal domestic flights from Buenos Aires to Salta, and Salta to Mendoza
- Meals as listed on the itinerary: 9 breakfasts, 7 lunches, and 4 dinners, plus wine pairings with most major meals
- All private excursions described in the itinerary along with services of local speakers, guides, entrance fees, and transportation
- Gratuities for travel director, local guides, drivers, porters, and included meals
- Full guiding services of a dedicated Travel Director
- Private airport transfers with porterage on the first and last scheduled days of the program
Not Included
- Pre-and post-trip accommodations and associated expenses
- Air and land transportation to Buenos Aires on Day 1 and from Mendoza on Day 10
- All types of personal insurance
- Personal expenses
- Additional alcoholic beverages beyond what has been arranged by Experi to pair with the included major meals
Rates From*
Classic: $ TBD
Deluxe: $ TBD
Single Occupancy: $ TBD
Extension Rates From*
Classic: $ TBD
Single Occupancy: $ TBD
*Rates are per person, double occupancy in US Dollars.
Deposits
Travel Insurance
Travel Terms & Conditions
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