Itinerary for your Pre-Programme

Day 1: Arrive at Mendoza, Argentina 

Welcome to Mendoza, the lively capital city of Argentina's renowned wine region of the same name. Before your tour of the Uco Valley tomorrow, take an evening at your leisure to explore the city, and enjoy the hotel’s facilities. 

Day 2: Mendoza  

On today’s full-day tour, you’ll head to the Uco Valley, one of Mendoza’s top wine-producing areas. Home to the Cordón del Plata, Uco Valley’s mountainous landscape not only offers breathtaking vistas, but it creates ideal conditions for producing the distinct wines for which the region is famed. Throughout the day, you’ll visit some renowned wineries in picturesque settings, and learn about winemaking – of course, with sampling. Your tour also includes lunch. 

At the end of the day, you’ll return to your hotel for an evening at your leisure. 

Day 3: Across the Andes from Mendoza to Santiago 

Your 227-mile journey across the awe-inspiring Andes from Mendoza to Santiago in Chile begins early in the morning. As we pass through the mountain range you’ll be captivated by the breathtaking scenery, and there will be lots of photo stops along the way. Highlights include the view of Aconcagua – the highest mountain in the Americas – and passing through the Paso Internacional Los Libertadores, the tunnel that connects Argentina and Chile. You'll enjoy lunch en route, surrounded by alpine vistas. 

When you arrive in Santiago, you’ll continue to Santa Rita vineyard in the Maipo Valley. Your home for the next two nights is the Casa Real Hotel - the exquisite, 19th-century former summerhouse of the winery’s founder. Dinner is at the hotel and the evening will be at your leisure. 

Day 4: Santa Rita vineyard tour 

The morning begins with a guided tour of the vineyard, during which you’ll learn about the grape varieties and traditional winemaking techniques. You’ll also visit the ‘Cellar of the 120 Patriots’ and discover the story behind its name.  

After lunch at the Doña Paula Restaurant, you'll visit the Museo Andino for a glimpse into pre-Columbian civilization. Take time to explore their collection of some 3,000 ancient artifacts before heading back to the hotel for dinner. 

Day 5: Back to Santiago 

Enjoy a relaxing morning at your leisure and explore your surroundings. After a farewell lunch, we’ll transfer you to your hotel in Santiago de Chile, pointing out some of the city's most iconic sights along the way. Your Pre-Programme ends at your hotel where the following overnight is part of your expedition cruise.