New World wines are increasingly popular, and this tour gives you a chance to explore the wine-making heartland of South America’s best known wine exporters, Chile and Argentina. It also happens to encompass an awe-inspiring journey from Pacific coast to Atlantic, from Santiago to Buenos Aires, crossing the Andes and the Pampas. Or vice versa.

Day 1: Santiago: Arrival

Upon your arrival into Santiago de Chile airport, you will be greeted and tranferred to your hotel in the heart of the city. The rest of the day is free to enjoy the sights of the Chilean capital.

Overnight in Santiago.

Today day we explore the world famous vineyards of the Maipo and Casablanca valleys. These two valleys, close to Santiago, produce some of the finest wine on the continent. Our expert guides take us to large and small wineries and there is plenty of time to sample!

In the afternoon, we return to Santiago, where we spend the night.

Day 3: Santiago – Mendoza

Departing early from Santiago, we travel by bus into the mighty Andean mountain range, admiring the spectacular views as we travel into Argentina.

We arrive in Mendoza mid-afternoon, and the rest of the day is free to admire the spectacular open spaces, tree-lined parks and imposing buildings of this laidback Argentinean city.

Day 4: Mendoza: City & Vineyard Tour: Lunch

Today, we visit some of Mendoza's world famous wineries in the districts of Maipu, Lujande Cuyo and the Valle de Uco. We admire views over the district’s vineyards, the snow capped peaks of the Andes acting as a breathtaking backdrop. We speak to master winemakers and sample some of the local produce.

Lunch will be in one of the bodegas, and will include wine, not surprisingly!

NB. This tour can be done by bicycle or on horseback, if you prefer. Email us to find out more.

NB. This tour departs on Monday, Wednesday and Friday only. Alternative vineyard excursions can be arranged for other days of the week.

We return to the city of Mendoza in the late afternoon: this evening, you may like to continue trying the wines in one of the excellent local taverns or restaurants!

Day 5: Mendoza – Buenos Aires

Leaving Mendoza this morning, we travel on to Buenos Aires, across the famous Argentinean pampas, arriving late afternoon.

NB. This tour can be done in the other direction, starting in Buenos Aires and ending in Santiago.

Mendoza is the adventure sports capital of Argentina, home to many activities, from sky diving to horse riding, to trekking and mountain biking. If you would like to know more about these activities and spending extra nights in Mendoza, email us at info@chimuadventures.com

Once in Buenos Aires, you could join up with our Buenos Aires Stopover or Highlights of Argentina tour. Likewise, Santiago is the starting point for the superb Classic Chile tour, going north to south.

Wine Trail Fast Facts