Luxury South America Food and Wine Tour

Duration 21 days
Price guide
From
  PP
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Peruvian food shot at both top-down and close-up shots
Morning sun rising at Plaza de armas, Cusco, City
Single dish photo at Central Restaurante at Lima of Peru, name: EXTREME ALTITUDE (Kculli , Kiwichas, Choclo Corn)
Vineyards and wineries in Chile - Valle Central Santiago district.
Llamas at first light at Machu Picchu, Peru
Ignite your tastebuds on this whirlwind adventure through South America, promising you sensational food and wine every step of the way. Journey from one of the oldest wineries in Uruguay to Argentina's acclaimed wine region of Mendoza before ambling amid Chile's vineyard-cloaked valleys. Phenomenal cuisine accompanies your enthralling escapade, like Lima's world-renowned flavours. Enjoy ancient landscapes in between, including the Inca ruins of the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu and Cusco City's cobblestoned alleys.

Trip highlights

  • Explore Uruguay's wineries and vineyards
  • Create empanadas from scratch in Buenos Aires
  • Go wine tasting in Mendoza and Chile's Wine Region
  • Board the luxurious Hiram Bingham Train to Machu Picchu
  • Learn to cook traditional Peruvian food in Cusco
  • Taste the diverse cuisine of Rio de Janeiro

Bespoke trips with Jacada

We design one-of-a-kind journeys incorporating luxury in all its forms. Our bespoke trips include:

  • Luxury accommodation throughout
  • Privately guided tours
  • Private transfers
  • Meticulously selected experiences
  • Expertise and support from your Jacada Concierge
Black and white illustration of two guides pointing to a building in the distance
  • Days 1–3 Carmelo
  • Days 3–5 Buenos Aires
  • Days 5–8 Mendoza
  • Days 8–10 Chile's Wine Region
  • Days 10–11 Santiago
  • Days 11–12 Lima
  • Days 12–4 Sacred Valley
  • Days 14–15 Machu Picchu
  • Days 15–18 Cusco
  • Days 18–19 Lima
  • Days 19–21 Rio de Janeiro
Luxury South America Food and Wine Tour
Price guide
  PP
  • Days 1–3 Carmelo
  • Days 3–5 Buenos Aires
  • Days 5–8 Mendoza
  • Days 8–10 Chile's Wine Region
  • Days 10–11 Santiago
  • Days 11–12 Lima
  • Days 12–4 Sacred Valley
  • Days 14–15 Machu Picchu
  • Days 15–18 Cusco
  • Days 18–19 Lima
  • Days 19–21 Rio de Janeiro

Itinerary in detail

Every Jacada trip is tailored to your personal preferences and interests. Below you’ll find a sample itinerary to inspire your own custom-designed journey.

Days 1–3

Slow down amid the vineyards of Carmelo

Life in Carmelo is slow and sweet.

Straddling the River Plate in Uruguay, you can spend your days discovering some 100 acres of vineyards and learning about the elaborate processes behind the cultivation, picking, processing, and maturing of the grapes they grow.

Days 3–5

Discover the 'Paris of South America'

From Uruguay, you’ll hop over the River Plate to Buenos Aires in Argentina.

Here, you can explore the sensational culinary scene of this remarkable capital, from traditional fare to innovative gourmet dishes stemming from Argentina’sNueva Cocina– the contemporary reinvention of Argentine cuisine.

Beyond its gastronomy, you’ll uncover Argentina’s artistic heritage with an abundance of fascinating museums and galleries to explore alongside plenty of cultural centres tracing its history and local customs.

The San Telmo neighbourhood, the oldest neighbourhood in Buenos Aires, Argentina

Make it mine

Cultural Highlights

Sail and Wine

Empanadas Cooking Class

Tour Buenos Aires' cultural landmarks

Buenos Aires’ cultural heritage spans historic districts, more than 50 museums featuring collections of classical and contemporary art and several other notable cultural and educational institutions.

With your private guide, you will begin your cultural immersion with a visit to the Colón Theatre before exploring Recoleta’s famous cemetery.

Continue to the National Museum of Decorative Arts, followed by the Museo de Arte Latinoamericano de Buenos Aires (MALBA). Your tour culminates at the Fernández Blanco Museum of Spanish American Art.

Sample Argentinian wines while sunset sailing

Discover an uncaptured side of Buenos Aires and its landscape in this intimate experience aboard a sailboat, where you will sample fine local wines. A seasoned crew will navigate you through your journey, as you head out into the Rio de La Plata Grande. You’ll meander along the river, taking your time to anchor at scenic spots and soak in the views.

The experienced Sommelier onboard will lead a tasting of hand picked wines, taking you on a voyage through some of Argentina’s diverse wine varieties and indulging in its flavours and aromas. In between tastings, tapas-style light bites will be served, all sourced from artisanal local producers. The journey will conclude with stunning panoramas of the Rio de la Plata as the sun sets on the horizon.

Take part in an empanadas workshop

Try your hand at making Argentina’s most famous street food, the empanada. You’ll learn about the different types of fillings, and perfect your crimping skills in this cookery class perfect for families and groups of friends.

Days 5–8

Retreat to Mendoza

Venture into Mendoza, the beating heart of Argentina‘s wine industry, where abundant vineyards pan out beneath the dramatic mountainscape of the mighty snowy peaks of the Andes.

While away your days flitting between the region’s wineries, sampling plenty of exquisite wine, including its famous, velvety Malbec.

Drone view of wine vineyard path. Walking down path leading towards nature, view of mountain background, blue clear sky and green vineyards. Perspective, goal, outdoors, nature, travel concepts

Along Mendoza's wine route

Near Mendoza City

At the Andean Foothills

Wine barrels in bodegas Lopez Mendoza

Visit the wineries of Luján de Cuyo and Maipú

Today, you’ll explore a selection of wineries in Mendoza’s Luján de Cuyo and Maipú valleys, from larger to more boutique and family-owned wineries.

At each winery, be privy to a delightful tasting session and a special behind-the-scenes look into their operations.

Argentina, Valle de Uco, viticulture on the edge of the Andes near Mendoza.

Taste Uco Valley's full-bodied wines

Located south of downtown Mendoza, the Uco Valley unfurls between the towns of Tupungato, Tunuyán and San Carlos. More than 10,000 hectares of vineyards carpet the region, as well as acres of fruit tree plantations.

Embark on a scenic drive along the picturesque Los Cerrillo route to reach the valley. You’ll visit Bodega Salentein, which is remarkably built in the shape of a cross. Lunch will be at Salentein’s restaurant, followed by an immersive tour of the winery itself.

Days 8–10

Into Chile's Wine Region

South of Santiago lies Chile’s vast wine-growing region, home to hundreds of valleys where both modern and traditional wineries produce world-class wines, including fine Cabernet Sauvignon, Carménère and Sauvignon Blancs.

Chilean vineyards in Maipo Valley

Wine tasting in Maipo Valley

Glass of wine in a Chilean Vineyard - Santiago, Chile

Journey along the foothills of the Andes and stop by some of the top wineries in the Maipo Valley. Chile’s most traditional wine valley is also one of the most internationally recognised, home to famous wineries like Concha y Toro and Cousiño Macul.

Maipo produces many of Chile’s finest red varieties. The valley is also garnering attention for its exciting new boutique wineries emerging in Alto Maipo, for its vines grown at higher altitudes.

Days 10–11

Overnight in Santiago

Situated in the middle of Chile, Santiago‘s landscape astonishes as you glance up at the Andes that majestically appear above its twinkling, cosmopolitan skyline.

The capital submerges you into exciting city life with contemporary splendours and a historic centre packed with gorgeous architecture and countless art galleries.

Equally exhilarating is its diverse gastronomy: you’ll discover innovative fusion cuisine amid a scene of trendy restaurants and bars.

Santiago skyline at Araucano Park and chemamules traditional mapuche sculptures - Santiago, Chile

See Santiago's sights

Santiago skyline at Araucano Park and chemamules traditional mapuche sculptures - Santiago, Chile

With an expert local guide, uncover the treasures of Chile’s capital, tucked into the Central Valley right below the imposing Andes. Alongside fascinating museums and art galleries, you’ll explore the city’s downtown district, Santa Lucía Hill, the Lastarria neighbourhood, La Moneda Palace and the Plaza de Armas.

Days 11–12

An interlude in Lima

Enjoy a wonderful evening in Peru‘s spellbinding capital.

Crowned as the ‘culinary capital of South America’, stumble on Lima‘s world-famous restaurants before seeking out the perfect pisco sour to round out a memorable night.

Days 12–14

Two nights in the Sacred Valley

Northwest of Cusco, the Sacred Valley is one of the most beautiful and historically important parts of Peru. The valley was one of the bases of Inca civilization, the river that winds its way through the valley floor believed to be aligned with the cosmos.

The valley is also home to many indigenous people living the same way they have been for centuries. During your two nights here you can visit local markets and get an insight into community life today.

Pachamanca culinary experience and weaving workshop

More than a meal, the Pachamanca is a celebration of nature. You’ll observe the preparation of this ancient culinary custom before tasting the dish of meat and vegetables cooked by the heat of stones in an earthen oven.

Then, you’ll learn about traditional textiles and weaving processes from the local craftspeople. The vivid colours of the villagers’ clothing are derived from natural dyes made from plants and other organic elements with which they decorate wool. You’ll learn about the ‘cochineal’ red and the secret properties of some other medicinal plants from the area.

Board The Hiram Bingham Train to Machu Picchu

The Hiram Bingham Train exudes style, luxury and romantic charm; there is no more sophisticated way to traverse the Peruvian landscape to Machu Picchu.

Aboard, the 1920s Pullman carriages reflect the opulence of the locomotive era, bedecked in polished brass, wood panels and comfortable seating. There is also a period-style observation car at the rear.

During your journey, you’ll have brunch in the elegant dining car adorned with white-linen tablecloths and clinking crystal. Whilst feasting on fine Peruvian cuisine, the steamy forest scenery unfolds right before you. There is also an open viewing carriage for immersing yourself in the dramatic vistas.

Days 14–15

Unearth the mysteries of the 'Lost City of the Incas'

No grand tour of Latin America would be complete without a visit to the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.

Your luxurious Peruvian train journey takes you right beneath the ancient ruins of this ‘Seven Wonder of the World’.

You’ll be able to immerse yourself in the bygone days of the Inca Civilisation in the footsteps of an expert private guide who will bring its incredible history to life.

Overview of Machu Picchu, agriculture terraces and Wayna Picchu peak in the background

Exploring Machu Picchu

With a Guide

Solo

Inca Village in the mountains

Gain an intimate insight into Machu Picchu's ruins

Uncover the ancient Machu Picchu citadel with a knowledgeable guide who will passionately recount its history and myths by revealing hidden corners and jaw-dropping viewpoints.

Then, descend to the small town of Aguas Calientes for a delicious lunch.

Set off on your own adventure

You can spend your morning discovering the famous site on your own.

For a sweeping view of Machu Picchu, you can embark on a stimulating trek to the Intipunku Gate, the main entrance to Machu Picchu built high above the Sacred Valley.

Board the Hiram Bingham Train to Cusco

Departing in the early evening, you’ll indulge in an exquisite five-course meal served in Hiram Bingham’s sophisticatedly appointed dining carriage.

There will also be drinks and live music in the dedicated bar carriage to conclude an unforgettable trip to Machu Picchu.

Days 15–18

Characterful Cusco

You’ll disembark your train in the charming city of Cusco, an acclaimed UNESCO World Heritage Site built on top of ancient Inca foundations.

Stroll cobbled streets that lead to beautifully manicured plazas and lively markets, where you’ll pick fresh produce to try your hand at making delicious Peruvian food.

Statue of Pachacuti Inca on the Fountain Top at Plaza de Armas, Cusco, Peru.

Make it mine

Sightseeing

Cooking Class

City of Cuzco in Peru, South America

Uncover historic cultural sites in and around Cusco

Begin your engaging tour of the city at the Church and Convent of Santo Domingo, which was previously the Koricancha Temple, devoted to worshipping the sun.

Your next stop will be the Plaza de Armas and Cusco Cathedral. Then, you’ll be driven to the countryside to marvel at extraordinary Inca ruins.

Cascaparo, Central Market of San Pedro, Cusco

Take part in an authentic culinary experience

Begin your day with a visit to Cusco’s pulsating central market, a wonderful way to discover Andean culture and daily life. Browse its dazzling displays of fresh produce and fascinating local products.

Next, learn how to turn these fresh ingredients into classic Peruvian dishes at a local restaurant.

Days 18–19

Back to Lima

Return to the capital of Peru, where you’ll resume your exploration of Lima and dive into the wonders of its urban metropolis.

This time, you’ll soak in its historical landmarks and learn about its heritage with guided excursions to notable museums and cultural centres.

Your break in the city culminates with an exquisite dinner at a prestigious restaurant showcasing the kaleidoscopic flavours of Peruvian cuisine.

The Malecón de Miraflores is a set of boardwalks located in the district of Miraflores, in Lima, Peru

Make it mine

Insider Tour

Into Ancient Peru

Fine Dining

Cathedral of San Francisco in Lima, Peru

Discover Lima's highlights

You’ll visit the Historical Center of Lima and the Plaza Mayor, where the Government Palace, City Hall, the Cathedral and the Archbishop’s Palace are located. You’ll move onto the San Francisco Monastery and step inside Casa Aliaga, one of America’s best-preserved colonial mansions.

You’ll also stop at the Larco Museum in Pueblo Libre, housed in an 18th-century colonial mansion. The museum holds the most extensive collection of pre-Columbian art in Peru, exhibiting many fine examples of textile work, as well as materials and tools used by the ancient people of Peru.

Courtyard at the Larco Museum. Lima, Peru.

Peruse Larco Museum's artefacts from Ancient Peru

Enjoy a guided tour of one of the most impressive collections of pre-Colombian art and artefacts in the world. Privately owned and housed in a pretty 18th-century building, this museum showcases chronological galleries that provide a thorough overview of 4,000 years of Peruvian pre-Columbian history.

Gastronomía restaurante Lima Perú

Savour contemporary Peruvian cuisine at the esteemed Astrid Y Gaston

Gaston Acurio is perhaps Peru’s most famous chef, but neither he nor his restaurant is resting on their laurels. The restaurant’s history goes back to 1994, when Gaston Acurio and Astrid Gutsche, fresh from studying culinary arts in Paris, founded the restaurant in a small house in the district of Miraflores.

Nowadays, the restaurant is located in a 300-year-old hacienda, and the menu showcases the best of Peruvian cuisine, reassessing traditional ingredients and recipes while creating something quite magical in the process.

Days 19–21

End your South American adventure in Rio de Janeiro

Where emerald mountains slope down to sparkling lagoons and powder-white shorelines, and the local spirit beams with an irresistible kind of pulsating energy, it is no wonder Rio de Janeiro is dubbed ‘the Marvellous City’.

You’ll be shown around Rio’s unmissable sights, which will take you from Corcovado Hill to the summit of Sugarloaf Mountain; all the while, Christ the Redeemer remains constantly in your eyeline.

Aerial view of Christ and Botafogo Bay from high angle.

Highlights of Rio

Christ the Redeemer

Cable Car Fun

Christ the Redeemer brazil

Marvel at Christ the Redeemer on Corcovado Mountain

Christ the Redeemer statue is undoubtedly Rio’s most famous attraction, with his arms stretched out, looking to bless the entire city.

Towering above the city centre on Corcovado Hill, the statue is surrounded by wide, open terraces from where you can glimpse unbeatable vistas of the city’s impressive littoral, the southern neighbourhoods of Copacabana and Ipanema, Sugarloaf Mountain and the town of Niterói.

Cable car going to Sugarloaf mountain in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Ride the cable car to the top of Sugarloaf Mountain

The soaring granite peak of Sugarloaf Mountain is one of the city’s most emblematic landmarks, adorning many a postcard.

You’ll hop in a cable car from Guanabara Bay to the top, where the sight of Rio de Janeiro and its neighbourhoods dramatically captures turquoise bays and coves that majestically appear from dense green hillsides.

“A once in a lifetime trip to South America‌”

Jacada, and Ciara/Susann in particular, did an amazing job of organizing our trip. We did three countries, eight locations and ten flights without a hitch. The local support was excellent and the advice as to things to do on the ground was really useful. I would have no hesitation in recommending this company to anyone.

Published 02nd June 2016 on Trustpilot
Tony

Why book with Jacada

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Personalised design

We’ll plan your trip around your personal interests, tastes and preferences, providing honest advice based on first-hand knowledge.

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Authentic experiences

Our expert guides and brilliant Concierges are hand-picked for their ability to bring your destination to life with care and passion.

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Positive Impact

We seek out unforgettable experiences that benefit both local communities and the environment.

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