Day 1
São Paulo
A day to get under the skin of São Paulo — sprawling, cultured and packed with some of the best food in the country. Say your hellos to the group before we set our sights on the mighty Iguaçu Falls.
- Room TypeHostel
Backpacking South America: Express Adventure
From the vibrant streets of São Paulo to the tango bars of Buenos Aires, this 9-day adventure packs three countries and South America's biggest highlights into one express trip. Marvel at the thundering Iguaçu Falls, saddle up for a taste of ranch life in Uruguay, and soak up the energy of Buenos Aires before it's time to say goodbye. Nine days, three countries, one unforgettable adventure.
from$2449
Pay $350 deposit- Length9 Days
- Starting PointSão Paulo, Brazil
- Ending PointBuenos Aires, Argentina
- No. Of Stops5
- Airport TransferNot included
- Avg. Group Size6-20
- Avg. Age20-45
- No. Of Activities6
- No. Of Meals7
Route Map
Sao Paulo → Iguassu Falls → Uruguay Ranch → Colonia → Buenos Aires
Brazil & Argentina
5 stops
Tour Itinerary
Day 2
Iguaçu Falls — Brazilian Side
We catch a short flight to Foz do Iguaçu and head straight for the Brazilian side of Iguaçu Falls — hundreds of waterfalls thundering through the jungle. Walkways take you right up to the spray, so prepare to have your jaw on the floor and your clothes completely soaked. Later we cross the border into Argentina.
- Meals IncludedBreakfast
- Room TypeHostel
- Activities IncludedIguaçu Falls (Brazil Side)
Day 3
Devil's Throat & Jasy Porá
Today we take on the Argentine side of the falls, riding the little train out to the Devil's Throat — a jaw-dropping horseshoe where the river simply vanishes over the edge — and walking the Superior Circuit for views from above. Afterwards we visit the Jasy Porá indigenous community and walk forest trails where native trees are being replanted.
- Meals IncludedBreakfast
- Room TypeHostel
- Activities IncludedIguassu Falls (Argentina Side), Devils Throat, Superior Circuit, Jasy Porá Community
Day 4
Southbound
A slower day on the road as we travel south by overnight bus, trading the subtropics for the wide-open gaucho country near the Uruguayan border. Get comfy, put a playlist on and watch Argentina roll by.
- Meals IncludedBreakfast
- Room TypeOvernight bus
Tour Dates
All This Included & More!
Frequently Asked Questions
What currencies will I need in Brazil, Argentina and Uruguay?
Three: the Brazilian real, the Argentine peso and the Uruguayan peso. Cards and contactless are widely accepted in all three, and since Argentina lifted its currency controls in 2025, foreign cards there get a rate close to the cash rate, so paying by card is usually simplest.
Keep a little local cash in each country for small shops, snacks and tips, drawn from ATMs inside banks. If a card machine offers to charge you in pounds, choose the local currency.
When is the best time to visit Brazil, Argentina and Uruguay?
This trip works in any season, with a different feel in each. December to March is summer: hot, humid and ideal for beaches, with Iguaçu Falls at its fullest, but also the busiest time. June to August is winter in the south, with mild days and chilly nights in Uruguay and Buenos Aires, so bring a warm layer.
Spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) are the sweet spots for walking cities comfortably. Our Brazil weather guide has more on the Brazilian leg.
Is the tap water safe to drink in Brazil, Argentina and Uruguay?
In Brazil, stick to filtered or bottled water. In Buenos Aires and most of Uruguay the tap water is treated and generally considered safe to drink, although it can taste of chlorine and anyone with a sensitive stomach may prefer bottled.
A refillable bottle, ideally with a filter, covers you across all three countries.
Will my phone work in Brazil, Argentina and Uruguay?
Most unlocked phones work in all three countries. Check your UK network's roaming charges first, as South America is usually outside roaming bundles. A regional travel eSIM covering all three, set up before you fly, is the simplest option.
Coverage is good in the cities and patchier on islands, around the falls and on long bus journeys. Most accommodation has Wi-Fi.
Is tipping expected in Brazil, Argentina and Uruguay?
Tipping is not compulsory, but it is normal. In Brazil a 10% service charge is usually added to restaurant bills. In Argentina and Uruguay around 10% is customary in restaurants, and in Argentina it is often left in cash even if you pay the bill by card.
Guides, drivers and boat crews appreciate a small tip for good service. Your group leader can suggest sensible amounts.
Is it safe to travel in Brazil, Argentina and Uruguay?
Yes, with the usual big-city care. Petty theft is the main risk, particularly on busy beaches and streets in Rio, São Paulo and Buenos Aires, so keep your phone out of sight, carry only what you need and use taxis booked by app or through your accommodation at night.
Uruguay is one of the most relaxed countries in South America. Check the latest FCDO advice for Brazil, Argentina and Uruguay before you travel.
