b'ULTIMATE SOUTH AMERICA AND THE RIO CARNIVAL YOUR ITINERARYDays 1-3 - London and Rio de JaneiroFrom London Heathrow, we fly to Rio de Janeiro, a city of intoxicating samba rhythms, gorgeous beaches and care-free culture. Day 2 takes us up Rios most recognisable landmark, Corcovado Mountain, upon which perches the famous statue of Christ the Redeemer. Looking out over the city, the colossal Art Deco statue is the fourth largest statue of Jesus in the world, and is one of the countrys most recognisable sights. We ascend via the Corcovado Rack & Pinion Mountain Railway, which SUGARLOAF MOUNTAIN takes us to a viewing platform high above Rio. This evening, we immerse ourselves in Carnival fever at the Rio Carnival Winners Parade. Settling down in our Grand Stand seats, we enjoy unparalleled views of this party of a lifetime. On Day 3 we delve into the heart of Rio as we take a IGUAZU FALLS guided tour of the downtown area, the developmental and financial hub of the city. Were introduced to the landmarks and places of historical and cultural interest, before a cable-car journey up iconic Sugarloaf Mountain, where the views are nothing short of breathtaking. This evening, we head to Fogo de Chaos for a Churriscera barbecue dinner.Days 4-5 - Iguaz FallsWe take a flight to Iguaz Falls, which lies on the border of Brazil and Argentina. We spend two nights here on the Argentine side. One of the most extensive waterfalls systems in the world, the thundering Iguaz Falls are a magnificent feat of nature in the heart of the Atlantic rainforest, and we explore the area today on a guided tour. We walk the trails of both the Brazilian and Argentinian side with a nature expert, ready to point out the unique wildlife and flora that call this place home. On Day 5 we take in a much larger portion of the rapids, exploring San Martin Island. We enjoy fantastic views of several waterfalls, before BUENOS AIRES seeing the massive torrent of water known as Devils Throat - the tallest of the 275 falls here. Days 6-7 - Buenos Aires and PatagoniaToday we fly to Buenos Aires, where we take a guided tour of the stylish city. We see Casa Rosada, the imposing Metropolitan Cathedral with its spectacular dome, and the mausoleum of General San Martin. Travelling on to La Recoleta, we visit the grave of Eva Duarte, known to the world as Eva Pern or Evita. This evening we enjoy an exclusive Argentinian wine pairing with dinner at La Cava, led by a professional sommelier who tells us the story, flavours, and best pairings for each wine we try. A morning flight on Day 7 takes us to Bariloche, in the Andes, for a two-night stay. On arrival, a scenic excursion showcases the region around the Patagonian mountain range. We admire views over the Parque Nacional Nahuel Huapi, one of the jewels of Patagonia, with spectacular lakes formed by centuries-old glaciers, as we glide to the summit of Cerro Campanioro on a chairlift.PATAGONIAN Days 8-10 - The Old Patagonian Express and El CalafateEXPRESS We take a scenic drive along Route 40 to El Bolson at the foot of Piltriquitron Mountain, admiring striking scenery en-route. After lunch in El Maitin, we embark on a journey on La Trochita. The train was made famous by Paul Therouxs 1978 The Old Patagonian Express, and its still known by that nickname today. The steam-hauled train is somewhat of a living museum, retaining much of its original character, and we enjoy a nostalgic journey through the Patagonian tundra.We fly to El Calafate on Day 9, on the shores of Lake Argentino. Known as the gateway to Los Glaciares National Park, the city is surrounded by dramatic mountains, glistening lakes, ancient glaciers and unique local flora.On Day 10, we take a guided tour of the Perito Moreno Glacier, a vast and beautiful ice formation. We join a nautical boat safari at Bajo Las Sombras Bay, which takes us across the icy waters and close to the strikingly blue glacier.156 SOUTH AMERICA'