30-Day Southern Americas Southern/Coastal Route (Mediterranean/Tropical vibes): Brazil, Uruguay, Argentina & Chile in January
Embark on an epic 30-day journey through the heart of the Southern Hemisphere during its peak summer season. This route is meticulously designed for families seeking a mix of high-energy tropical vibes in Brazil and the sophisticated, Mediterranean-like atmosphere of the Southern Cone. From the iconic shores of Copacabana to the European elegance of Buenos Aires and the rugged beauty of the Chilean coast, your family will experience the best of South American hospitality and geography.
Traveling in January ensures long sunny days and a vibrant local atmosphere, though it requires smart planning to manage the peak-season crowds. Our itinerary focuses on logistical ease, utilizing reliable flights and the famous Buquebus ferry to transition between countries, ensuring that even with children in tow, the journey remains as relaxing as it is adventurous.
Day 1: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil - Arrival & Beach Sunset
Arrival at Galeão International Airport
Touch down in the Marvelous City and take a pre-arranged private transfer to your hotel in Ipanema.
Lunch at a Traditional Churrascaria
Enjoy an all-you-can-eat Brazilian BBQ experience at Fogo de Chão, which is very kid-friendly with its buffet style.
Ipanema Beach Walk
Stroll along the world-famous black-and-white tiled promenade and let the kids play in the soft sand near Posto 9.
Arpoador Sunset
Join the locals in the tradition of clapping as the sun sets over the Atlantic from the Arpoador rocks.
Day 2: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil - Icons of the City
Christ the Redeemer
Take the Cog Train through the Tijuca Forest to reach the summit of Corcovado early to beat the heat.
Sugarloaf Mountain (Pão de Açúcar)
Ride the glass-walled cable cars for breathtaking 360-degree views of Guanabara Bay.
Urca District Lunch
Eat like a local at the base of the mountain in the quiet, residential Urca neighborhood.
AquaRio Aquarium
The largest marine aquarium in South America, perfect for keeping children entertained and cool in the afternoon.
Day 3: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil - Culture and Parks
Jardim Botânico
Explore the stunning botanical gardens with its alley of towering imperial palms and sensory garden.
Parque Lage
Have lunch in the courtyard of this beautiful mansion-turned-art school at the foot of Corcovado.
Museum of Tomorrow
Visit the futuristic Pier Mauá to see this Santiago Calatrava-designed science museum.
Dinner in Santa Teresa
Enjoy the bohemian vibes of this hilltop neighborhood known for its historic tram and art galleries.
Day 4: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil - Tropical Island Escape
Angra dos Reis Day Trip
Depart on a full-day guided tour to the stunning islands and turquoise waters south of the city.
Schooner Boat Ride
Cruise around Ilha Grande, stopping for snorkeling in the Blue Lagoon where tropical fish are abundant.
Island Seafood Lunch
Enjoy a freshly prepared meal on the beach at Japariz.
Return to Rio
Relax on the drive back and enjoy a quiet evening at the hotel.
Day 5: Rio de Janeiro to Florianópolis, Brazil - Southbound Flight
Last Morning in Ipanema
A final walk on the beach and a visit to the H. Stern Museum for a quick cultural fix.
Flight to Florianópolis
Take a 1.5-hour domestic flight to the 'Magic Island' of southern Brazil.
Check-in at Jurerê Internacional
Settle into a family-friendly resort in the most upscale and safe neighborhood of the island.
Beachside Dinner
Walk to the open-air Jurerê Open Shopping for dinner and gelato.
Day 6: Florianópolis, Brazil - Lagoon and Dunes
Lagoa da Conceição
Visit the heart of the island for paddleboarding and shallow water play for the kids.
Joaquina Sand Dunes
Try sandboarding down the massive white dunes overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.
Barra da Lagoa
Visit the TAMAR Project, a sea turtle conservation center that is highly educational for children.
Seafood in Costa da Lagoa
Take a small boat taxi across the lagoon to a cluster of hidden waterfront restaurants.
Day 7: Florianópolis, Brazil - Fortress and Fun
Santo Antônio de Lisboa
Visit this historic Azorean fishing village with colonial architecture and oyster farms.
Oyster Tasting
Florianópolis is the oyster capital of Brazil; enjoy them fresh by the pier.
Fortaleza de São José da Ponta Grossa
Explore this 18th-century fortress situated between the beaches of Jurerê and Forte.
Campeche Island (Planning)
Coordinate a boat for the following morning if the weather is calm.
Day 8: Florianópolis, Brazil - Island Paradise
Ilha do Campeche
Take a boat to this protected island known for its crystal clear Caribbean-like water and archaeological sites.
Snorkeling & Relaxation
The water is calm and perfect for young swimmers to see colorful fish.
Return to Main Island
Head back to the hotel for some pool time before the next day's international travel.
Farewell Brazil Dinner
Enjoy a Moqueca (Brazilian fish stew) at a high-end local eatery.
Day 9: Florianópolis, Brazil to Montevideo, Uruguay - Flight Transit
Transfer to FLN Airport
Say goodbye to Brazil and head to the modern Florianópolis airport.
Flight to Montevideo
Take a connecting flight to the capital of Uruguay, often transiting via São Paulo.
Arrival in Montevideo
Check into a hotel in the Pocitos or Punta Carretas neighborhood.
Chivito Dinner
Try the legendary Uruguayan national sandwich at a local diner.
Day 10: Montevideo, Uruguay - Rambla and Old Town
Walking the Rambla
Join the locals walking the 13-mile coastal promenade, the longest in the world.
Mercado del Puerto
Experience the ultimate Uruguayan BBQ (Asado) in this historic iron-frame market.
Ciudad Vieja (Old Town)
Visit Plaza Independencia and the Palacio Salvo, once the tallest building in South America.
Candombe Drums
On weekends, catch the rhythmic drumming rehearsals in the streets of Barrio Sur.
Day 11: Montevideo to Punta del Este, Uruguay - The Riviera
Scenic Drive to Punta del Este
Take a 2-hour bus or rental car to the most famous beach resort in South America.
Casapueblo
Visit the whimsical white sculpture-house of artist Carlos Páez Vilaró in Punta Ballena.
Los Dedos (The Fingers)
Take the mandatory family photo at the giant hand sculpture emerging from the sand at Playa Brava.
La Barra and the Wavy Bridge
Cross the fun undulating bridge to explore the trendy shops and beaches of La Barra.
Day 12: Punta del Este, Uruguay - Seals and Sailing
Isla de Lobos
Take a boat trip to see one of the largest sea lion colonies in the world.
Lunch at the Port
Enjoy fresh calamari and sea bass while watching the sea lions play in the harbor.
Jose Ignacio Visit
Drive up to this chic, quiet fishing village for a relaxed afternoon by the lighthouse.
Dinner at Parador La Huella
Book weeks in advance for this world-renowned beachfront dining experience.
Day 13: Montevideo, Uruguay to Buenos Aires, Argentina - Crossing the Rio de la Plata
Bus back to Montevideo
Return to the capital to catch the ferry to Argentina.
Buquebus Ferry
Board the high-speed ferry for a comfortable 2-hour crossing to Buenos Aires.
Arrival in Buenos Aires
Check into your hotel in the leafy, family-friendly neighborhood of Palermo Soho.
Palermo Soho Walk
Explore the cobblestone streets filled with boutiques and street art.
Day 14: Buenos Aires, Argentina - Paris of the South
Recoleta Cemetery
Visit the final resting place of Eva Perón in this city of marble mausoleums.
Lunch at El Sanjuanino
Try the best traditional empanadas and locro in the city.
El Ateneo Grand Splendid
Visit what is often called the most beautiful bookstore in the world, housed in a theater.
Family Tango Show
Choose a show that includes dinner and is appropriate for all ages.
Day 15: Buenos Aires, Argentina - Colorful History
La Boca & El Caminito
Walk the colorful streets of the Italian immigrant neighborhood and see tango in the streets.
San Telmo Market
Explore the antique stalls and grab a Choripán (chorizo sandwich) for lunch.
Puerto Madero
Walk along the refurbished docks and cross the Puente de la Mujer.
Costanera Sur Eco-Reserve
Rent bikes and enjoy some nature right in the middle of the city.
Day 16: Buenos Aires, Argentina - Gaucho Day Trip
Estancia Day Trip
Head to San Antonio de Areco for a day at a traditional Argentine ranch (Estancia).
Asado & Folk Music
Feast on grilled meats while watching Gauchos perform horseback skills and traditional dances.
Horseback Riding
A gentle ride through the pampas, perfect for children and beginners.
Return to the City
Relax after a day in the countryside.
Day 17: Buenos Aires, Argentina - Tigre Delta
Train to Tigre
Take the scenic Mitre Line train from Retiro station to the riverside town of Tigre.
Boat Tour of the Delta
Navigate the maze of islands and see how the 'Isleños' live in houses on stilts.
Puerto de Frutos
Shop for wicker crafts and local honey in this bustling riverside market.
Parque de la Costa
If the kids need a thrill, visit Argentina's largest amusement park located right in Tigre.
Day 18: Buenos Aires to Mendoza, Argentina - Into the Wine Country
Morning in Bosques de Palermo
Rent a pedal boat on the lake or visit the Galileo Galilei Planetarium.
Flight to Mendoza
Take a 1 hour 45 minute flight to the foothills of the Andes.
Check-in at a Vineyard Lodge
Stay in a 'Posada' in the Maipú or Luján de Cuyo region.
Winery Dinner
Enjoy a farm-to-table meal paired with world-class Malbec.
Day 19: Mendoza, Argentina - Biking and Bodegas
Wine Biking in Maipú
Rent bikes (with child seats/trailers) and cycle between local olive oil factories and wineries.
Olive Oil Tasting
Visit Olivícola Laur, ranked among the best olive oil producers in the world.
Lunch at Bodega El Enemigo
Inspired by Dante's Divine Comedy, this winery offers a unique architectural experience.
Pool Time
January is hot in Mendoza; spend the afternoon cooling off in the lodge pool.
Day 20: Mendoza, Argentina - High Andes Adventure
High Mountain Tour
Drive towards the Chilean border along Route 7, through the heart of the Andes.
Puente del Inca
See the natural orange sulfur bridge and the ruins of an old thermal spa.
Aconcagua Provincial Park
Hike the short, family-friendly trail to the viewpoint of the highest peak in the Americas.
Potrerillos Dam
Stop by the bright turquoise lake for photos on the way back to Mendoza.
Day 21: Mendoza, Argentina to Santiago, Chile - The Andes Crossing
The Scenic Bus Ride
Opt for a luxury 'Cama' bus for an 8-hour journey over the Andes, featuring the famous 'Los Caracoles' switchbacks.
Border Formalities
Complete customs at the Cristo Redentor tunnel (keep all fruit and meat out of your bags!).
Arrival in Santiago
Check into a hotel in the Providencia or Lastarria neighborhood.
Dinner in Lastarria
Walk through this historic district filled with street performers and cozy restaurants.
Day 22: Santiago, Chile - Panoramic Views
Cerro San Cristóbal
Take the historic funicular up the hill for a view of the city backed by the Andes.
Santiago Cable Car
Ride the modern cable car down the other side of the hill into the 'Sanhattan' business district.
Sky Costanera
Visit the tallest building in South America for an even higher perspective.
Bicentennial Park
Let the kids feed the flamingos and koi fish in this beautiful, modern park in Vitacura.
Day 23: Santiago, Chile - Museums and Markets
Plaza de Armas
See the Metropolitan Cathedral and watch the chess players in the square.
Pre-Columbian Art Museum
One of the best museums in South America, featuring fascinating indigenous artifacts.
Mercado Central
Try the famous Chilean King Crab in this bustling wrought-iron fish market.
Museum of Memory and Human Rights
A moving and essential look into Chile's recent history (best for older children).
Day 24: Santiago, Chile - Maipo Valley Day Trip
Cajón del Maipo
Head into the dramatic river canyon southeast of the city.
Embalse El Yeso
Visit this stunning reservoir surrounded by snow-capped peaks (even in summer).
Picnic Lunch
Enjoy a rustic lunch with a view of the Andes.
Hot Springs
Soak in the Baños Morales or Termas de Colina before heading back to the city.
Day 25: Santiago to Valparaíso, Chile - The Mediterranean Coast
Bus to Valparaíso
A comfortable 1.5-hour ride takes you to the coast.
Ascensor Artilleria
Ride one of the city's iconic wooden elevators for a view of the busy port.
Cerro Alegre & Concepción
Wander the hills filled with vibrant street art, hidden cafes, and boutique hotels.
Seafood Dinner
Enjoy fresh Pacific ceviche with a sunset view.
Day 26: Valparaíso, Chile - Neruda and Color
La Sebastiana
Explore the quirky, ship-like home of Nobel laureate Pablo Neruda.
Street Art Tour
Join a 'Free Tour' to find the most impressive murals hidden in the alleys.
Troleybus Ride
Ride the historic electric trolleybuses along the flat part of the city.
Viña del Mar Flower Clock
Take a quick train ride to neighboring Viña del Mar to see the famous 'Reloj de Flores'.
Day 27: Viña del Mar, Chile - Garden City Beaches
Playa Reñaca
Visit the most popular beach in the region, known for its stepped apartment buildings and surfing.
Lunch in Concón
Known as the gastronomic capital of the region, try the 'Empanadas de Camarón-Queso'.
Dunas de Concón
Climb the massive sand dunes for a sunset view over the Pacific Ocean.
Viña del Mar Casino
Walk by the historic casino and enjoy the gardens of the 'Garden City'.
Day 28: Casablanca Valley, Chile - White Wine Region
Visit Bodegas RE
A short drive from the coast, this winery uses ancient methods and amphorae.
Lunch at Casas del Bosque
Enjoy a high-end lunch in their 'Tanino' restaurant, consistently ranked among the best.
Matetic Vineyards
Try the cool-climate Syrah and explore their beautiful grounds.
Return to Valparaíso
One last evening in the colorful hills.
Day 29: Valparaíso to Santiago, Chile - Final Shopping
Leisurely Morning
Enjoy a final Chilean breakfast of 'Marraqueta' bread and avocado.
Return to Santiago
Check into a hotel near the airport or in the Las Condes area.
Pueblito Los Dominicos
A beautiful craft market where you can find high-quality lapis lazuli jewelry and copper crafts.
Farewell Dinner
Dine at Boragó or another top-tier restaurant to celebrate the end of your journey.
Day 30: Santiago, Chile - Departure
Hotel Breakfast
Enjoy a final meal and review the incredible photos from the past month.
Transfer to SCL Airport
Head to Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport for your flight home.
Duty Free Shopping
Pick up some Chilean Pisco or Argentine Malbec for souvenirs.
Departure
End of your 30-day Southern Americas epic journey.
Best Time to Visit Americas
The Southern part of the Americas is a year-round destination, but the experience varies wildly by region. January is the absolute peak of summer in the Southern Hemisphere, offering hot, sunny weather perfect for the beaches of Brazil and Uruguay. However, this is also the busiest and most expensive time. For those looking for milder weather and fewer crowds, the shoulder seasons of March-May (Autumn) and September-November (Spring) are ideal, especially for the wine regions of Mendoza and Central Chile.
Visas & Border Crossings
Most Western travelers (USA, EU, UK, Canada, Australia) currently do not need visas for short stays in Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, or Chile, though entry requirements are subject to change (always check the latest reciprocity fees). Border crossings are generally straightforward. The Buquebus ferry between Uruguay and Argentina handles immigration at the terminal, while the Andes crossing between Argentina and Chile involves a joint border post where all luggage is scanned. Always carry physical copies of your family's birth certificates and marriage licenses if traveling with minors to avoid issues at South American borders.
Getting Around Americas
For a multi-country itinerary of this scale, a combination of transport methods is best. Regional flights (LATAM, Aerolíneas Argentinas, Gol) are efficient for long distances like Rio to Montevideo or Buenos Aires to Mendoza. For shorter hops, the high-speed ferry between Montevideo and Buenos Aires is the gold standard. Within countries, Chile and Argentina have excellent luxury bus networks ('Cama' or 'Executive' class) that are often as comfortable as a flight and far more scenic for mountain crossings.
