Pampas to Peaks: South America's Lavish Legends

• Day 1: Tango in the Paris of South America

Your journey begins in the sultry city of Buenos Aires, the cosmopolitan capital often dubbed the "Paris of South America." Arrive and immediately immerse yourself in the city's most romantic and atmospheric neighborhood - Recoleta.

Wander the tree-lined streets past stately French-inspired mansions and museums housed in former palaces. But the true beating heart of Buenos Aires lies in its tango culture. End your first night at a intimate tango show, watching professionally dancers bring this seductive art form to life with their intensely passionate, choreographed movements.

• Day 2: The Vibrant Street Art Scene

Dive into Buenos Aires' gritty, bohemian side as you explore the street art meccas of La Boca and Barracas. These working-class barrios have allowed their historic tenement buildings to become a living canvas for powerful socio-political murals and eye-catching graffiti. An expert local guide provides rich context on how the city's tumultuous history has inspired grassroots public expression. Cap off the day by continuing your tango immersion - this time as a student taking a lesson from professional dancers at the renowned Rojo Tango cabaret.

• Day 3: Estancia Life and Polo Prowess

Trade urban edginess for the wide open spaces of the Argentine pampas (plains) on an authentic estancia (ranch) experience. Try your hand at polo, the sport of kings and the national passion. Receive a riding lesson and swing a mallet while atop one of the estancia's well-trained horses. If you prefer, opt for a more laidback day by exploring the scenic ranch landscapes via carriage or bicycle ride. You'll be rewarded with a hearty asado (barbecue) lunch featuring Argentina's famed beef.

• Day 4: Patagonian Wilderness Wonderland

Your journey heads to the far southern frontier of Chilean Patagonia, a region of epic, untamed wilderness. Arrive in the sleepy town of Puerto Natales, the gateway to Torres del Paine National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. This world-renowned nature sanctuary is a hiker's paradise, with its dramatic granite spires, windswept pampas, turquoise lakes, and abundant wildlife like guanacos and soaring condors.

• Day 5: Torres del Paine's Breathtaking Landscapes

Spend a full day reveling in the crown jewel of Torres del Paine - the soaring, skyscraper-like granite torres (towers) themselves. Hike into the heart of the park on trails that weave between emerald lakes and craggy peaks. Gaze upwards to try and spot the mighty Andean condor riding thermals high above. At night, you'll be treated to one of the most brilliant, unadulterated starry sky displays on the planet.

• Day 6: Glaciers, Horseback Riding, and Condor Spotting

Today you have your pick of adventurous personalized excursions to experience Patagonia's epic scenery. Cruise by boat up to the sheer, crackling face of two massive glaciers. Or opt for an exhilarating horseback ride to a historic estancia, trekking through gorgeous mountain landscapes towards a condor lookout point. Whichever you choose, you'll create unforgettable memories.

• Day 7: Mendoza's Wine and Literary Terroir

Leave the wilderness behind for Argentina's world-renowned Mendoza wine region, a sunny, lush valley hugging the Andes foothills. You'll enjoy a delectable lunch at a winery that perfectly blends viticulture with literature and poetic ambiance. After checking into your sumptuous vineyard resort, toast to the good life with a glass of Mendoza's signature Malbec.

• Day 8: Winery Touring and Tasting Paradise

No visit to Mendoza would be complete without fully indulging in its celebrated wineries. You'll be chauffeured between two of the region's most acclaimed bodega estates, touring their meticulous grounds and barreling rooms while sampling their finest varietals. A special winery lunch allows you to experience expert food and wine pairings.

• Day 9: A Culinary Feast Under the Andes

For your final day in Mendoza, the choice is yours - horseback ride through the vineyards, mountain bike the Andean foothills, or set off on an invigorating hike. In the evening, you'll learn the secrets of Argentine cuisine firsthand during an interactive cooking class led by a renowned local chef. Then dine on the delicious bounty you created together, warmly gathered around a fire pit as the Andes peaks glow with the final light.

• Days 10-11: Iguazu Falls - A Thundering Potent Wonder

You'll be simply awestruck witnessing the tremendous power and grandeur of Iguazu Falls, one of the world's largest and most spectacular waterfalls systems, straddling the border of Argentina and Brazil. This UNESCO World Heritage site spans nearly 2 miles, with over 275 cascades plunging from up to 270 feet high into the swirling whitewater below. You'll experience multiple perspectives - from serene trails with jaw-dropping panoramas, to walkways that put you right at the thundering brink, to an exhilarating boat cruise that brings you breathtakingly close to the dense, misty spray.

• Day 12: Homeward Bound with Memories for a Lifetime

On your final morning, take a celebratory helicopter flight soaring above Iguazu Falls to appreciate their sheer immensity one last time before bidding farewell to this epic adventure through Argentina, Chile and Brazil. You'll depart with unforgettable memories of passionate tango, rustic estancias, Andean wine culture, Patagonian wilderness treks, and the overpowering beauty of Iguazu's cascades.