CATHOLIC ARGENTINA & URUGUAY
11 Days / 9 Nights
BUENOS AIRES - COLONIA DEL SACRAMENTO - MONTEVIDEO & IGUAZU FALLS WITH CATHOLIC SITES
ARGENTINA: Our Lady of Luján is the patron saint of Argentina and the neo-gothic basilisk named after her has a very important meaning for Catholics in both Argentina and worldwide. The basilisk is seventy kilometers away from the City of Buenos Aires and was built between 1887 and 1935. Visiting the city of Luján - apart from discovering this impressive sanctuary - will enable you to take a break from the frantic way of life in the capital of Argentina and take a peaceful walk next to the river.
URUGUAY: The Basilica of the Holy Sacrament (Spanish: Basílica del Santísimo Sacramento) is a Roman Catholic parish church in Colonia del Sacramento, Uruguay. The parish was established on 2 February 1680, being one of the oldest in the country. The first church was a humble mud ranch. It is as old as the city itself (a former Portuguese settlement). In 1995, the Historic Quarter of the City of Colonia del Sacramento was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO - with it, the Basilica.

Inclusions
-
Round-trip air USA – Buenos Aires – USA
-
Private Air-conditioned motor coach
-
English speaking Christian guide
-
Choice of 4, 5 star hotels
-
Air: Iguazu/Buenos Aires IGR/AEP & Montevideo/Buenos Aires/Iguazu
-
Entrance to all sights mentioned
-
Daily Mass available
-
Porterage of 1 suitcase per person
-
Entrance fees
This itinerary can be modified to the specific requirements of your group
*Ask about our church donation program*
Occasionally local religious and national holidays, weather, traffic conditions and other events may necessitate changes in the sequence of events or the missing of certain events/places. Though every effort will be made to follow the itinerary, it should be considered as an indication, rather than a contract of events and places to be visited.

Inclusions
-
Round-trip air USA – Buenos Aires – USA
-
Private Air-conditioned motor coach
-
English speaking Christian guide
-
Choice of 4, 5 star hotels
-
Air: Iguazu/Buenos Aires IGR/AEP & Montevideo/Buenos Aires/Iguazu
-
Entrance to all sights mentioned
-
Daily Mass available
-
Porterage of 1 suitcase per person
-
Entrance fees
This itinerary can be modified to the specific requirements of your group
*Ask about our church donation program*
Occasionally local religious and national holidays, weather, traffic conditions and other events may necessitate changes in the sequence of events or the missing of certain events/places. Though every effort will be made to follow the itinerary, it should be considered as an indication, rather than a contract of events and places to be visited.

Dates & Rates
Select a Departure Date

At a Glance
- DAY 1: USA
- DAY 2: BUENOS AIRES
- DAY 3: BUENOS AIRES (Lujan Sanctuary)
- DAY 4: BUENOS AIRES - COLONIA DEL SACRAMENTO
- DAY 5: COLONIA DEL SACRAMENTO – MONTEVIDEO
- DAY 6: FULL DAY PUNTA DEL ESTE
- DAY 7: MONTEVIDEO-IGUAZU
- DAY 8: IGUAZU
- Day 9: Iguazu - Buenos Aires
- DAY 10: FULL DAY POPE FRANCISCO TOUR
- DAY 11: USA

PRINT THE FULL ITINERARY

Itinerary
Click on the plus sign for full day description.
DAY 1: USA
Depart today for your overnight flight; meals will be served on board.
DAY 2: BUENOS AIRES
Upon arrival in meet your local Perillo guide we transfer to our hotel for check-in and time to relax. After relaxation we begin our city tour. Visit the Metropolitan Cathedral; Neo-classical building is Argentina´s main Catholic building. The mausoleum of General San Martin is located inside the Cathedral, and Pope Francisco used to celebrate religious services in this Cathedral when he was cardinal of Buenos Aires city. Next stop is La Boca, a most colorful area with the famous street Caminito. Continue to Palermo, with its beautiful parks, City Zoo, Botanical Garden, Argentine Horse Track and National Polo Fields. Visit Recoleta area, at the cemetery of Recoleta find the grave of Eva Perón (Evita). We stop for lunch (included) at a local restaurant. Hotel check-in, before dinner. Welcome dinner at local restaurant then return to hotel for overnight accommodations. (L.D.)
DAY 3: BUENOS AIRES - Lujan Sanctuary
Early departure to the West area. During our tour we will enjoy the majesty of the National Basilica Church with its biggest museum of Latin America, with its colonial architecture; and the wonderful Our Lady of Luján Avenue with its picturesque arches.Lujan is the main Holly virgin for the Argentineans, every year it receives millions of people, as a testimony of their deep faith.
Main Pilgrimages take place on:
May 8th (Lujan Virgin`s day)
Last week-end in September (local gauchos' pilgrims)
First week-end in October (local youth pilgrims)
Dec 8th (Virgin`s day)
Afterwards continue to Estancia Santa Susana Ranch. We enjoy typical “criollas” meals (lunch with drinks included) followed by a show of folk dances, and modern melodies. Our guided takes us to the Spanish-colonial style “casco”, with its museum. The day will end with typical activities of an estancia. After, return to our hotel for dinner and overnight accommodations. (B.D.)
DAY 4: BUENOS AIRES - COLONIA DEL SACRAMENTO
Morning check out and transfer to Buenos Aires pier to board you hydrofoil service to Colonia del Sacramento, in the neighbor country of Uruguay. 1h fast hydrofoil service to Colonia del Sacramento. Colonia del Sacramento is one of the few remains of the colonial age, declared by the UNESCO as Historic Heritage of Humanity. Visit the picturesque streets of the oldest city in the country, The streets of Santa Rita, San Gabriel, the Matriz Church, San Pedro road, the Bastion del Carmen, the famous “ Calle de los Suspiros” (Street of Sighs) used so often as a scenery for historical films, such as the cathedral and the lighthouse, and the Real de San Carlos bullring. Celebrate Mass before our return for dinner and overnight accommodations. (B.L.D.)
DAY 5: COLONIA DEL SACRAMENTO – MONTEVIDEO
Montevideo is a modern city with European flair and an appealing mix of architectural influences, After check-in to your hotel then begin your city tour. The main points of interest are the Plaza de Constitucion with the Cathedral and the Colonial Town Hall. Also see the magnificent Solis Theatre and Independence Square. Experience the old market hall at the port of Montevideo (Mercado del Puerto), a lively place with street musicians and local artists. Follow the lively street 18 de Julio, that is lined with shops, cafés and office buildings, your next stop, Mercado Agricola, recently renovated market hall where you'll get insight to the culinary customs of Uruguay. Then continue to Batlle and Ordoñez Park, passing by the Obelisk, to the Centenario Soccer Stadium which was constructed for the very first World Cup in 1930. Continue to Carrasco, enjoy an excellent view of the city. Celebrate mass then return along the coast to your hotel for dinner and overnight accommodations. (B.D.)
DAY 6: FULL DAY PUNTA DEL ESTE
Punta del Este, called the St. Tropez of Uruguay for its miles of beautiful, pristine beaches, its upscale and exclusive resort tradition, glittery nightlife and also an upscale summer population. Enjoy a scenic drive through Punta del Este’s most fashionable and impressive neighborhoods. Pass through the residential areas of Cantegril, San Rafael, Parque Golf and La Barra de Maldonado, known for its unique hanging bridges. Drive along some of Punta’s natural wonders. Stop at Punta Ballena for sweeping views of the coast, before ending your drive to Casapueblo, the home and atelier of internationally renowned artist, Carlos Paez Vilaró. Time at leisure to enjoy the beach area. After, return to your hotel for dinner and overnight. (B.D.)
DAY 7: MONTEVIDEO-IGUAZU
After breakfast celebrates mass, then depart to the airport for your short flight to Iguazu Falls. Iguazú Falls - a total of 275 falls dropping over 70m (230ft.). Garganta del Diablo (Devil’s Throat) is the most impressive waterfall, where the falling water gives the illusion of magical rainbows. The National Park is full of exotic subtropical vegetation surrounding the falls: Iguazu National Park was designated World Heritage Site by UNESCO, while the close Jesuit Missions have been declared Cultural Heritage Site by UNESCO.Iguazu Falls National Park was recently voted as one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature. follow by dinner and overnight accommodation at your hotel in Iguazu. (B.D.)
DAY 8: IGUAZU
Morning Mass at a local church, then drive from Puerto Iguazú to San Ignacio, where the Ruins are located. Visit the Mission’s Archaeological Museum and the Ruins site. The ruins are a sample of the great work by the Jesuit missionaries within the Guarani Nation. San Ignacio Mini is included as a World Heritage Site. The ruins of San Ignacio Mini are set around what used to be the Plaza de Armas: remains of the church, the cloisters, the cemetery and workshops are found here. The best-preserved features are the columns, galleries and steps of the church. Continue and visit Loreno & Santa Ana Jesuit ruins, after stop for an included lunch. Enjoy a short lecture from a local Priest from Puerto Iguazu. Return to your hotel for dinner and overnight accommodations. (B.L.D.)
Day 9: Iguazu - Buenos Aires
Breakfast, then arrival at the Argentinian National Park’s Visitors Center to board a gas-propelled train at the main station, which takes visitors to the upper falls circuit. Visitors can walk more than 3km (1.87 mi.) along the Iguazu river canyon, via the lower circuit and the upper circuit to appreciate the flora and fauna. Later depart for the airport for your short flight back to Buenos Aires. Upon arrival you'll transfer to your hotel for rest and relaxation. In the evening a wonderful Tango Show with dinner awaits you. (B.D.)
DAY 10: FULL DAY POPE FRANCISCO TOUR
Breakfast, visit sites related to Jorge Mario Bergoglio – Pope Francis life. Visit “San Carlos Borromeno church” Jorge Mario Bergoglio was baptized here. Visit the church where he took his First Communion and visit “San Jose de Flores Church” here Jorge Mario Bergoglio received “The Call of God” … Sep. 21st, teenager Jorge Bergoglio was going to meet his friends he walked by “San Jose de Flores Church” and felt a strange sensation ... he entered the church, and that day he felt and decided he would like to become a Priest. Coach to Pope´s home & the Public school where Pope Francisco attended. The school director will welcome you and will explain about the importance of public and free education in Argentina (a voluntary donation to the school is welcomed). During the tour guests will have the chance to learn unique stories about Pope Francisco`s life. Return to your hotel for dinner and overnight accommodations. (B.D.)
DAY 11: USA
After breakfast we depart for the airport for your flight home. (B.)
DAY 1: USA
Depart today for your overnight flight; meals will be served on board.
DAY 2: BUENOS AIRES
Upon arrival in meet your local Perillo guide we transfer to our hotel for check-in and time to relax. After relaxation we begin our city tour. Visit the Metropolitan Cathedral; Neo-classical building is Argentina´s main Catholic building. The mausoleum of General San Martin is located inside the Cathedral, and Pope Francisco used to celebrate religious services in this Cathedral when he was cardinal of Buenos Aires city. Next stop is La Boca, a most colorful area with the famous street Caminito. Continue to Palermo, with its beautiful parks, City Zoo, Botanical Garden, Argentine Horse Track and National Polo Fields. Visit Recoleta area, at the cemetery of Recoleta find the grave of Eva Perón (Evita). We stop for lunch (included) at a local restaurant. Hotel check-in, before dinner. Welcome dinner at local restaurant then return to hotel for overnight accommodations. (L.D.)
DAY 3: BUENOS AIRES - Lujan Sanctuary
Early departure to the West area. During our tour we will enjoy the majesty of the National Basilica Church with its biggest museum of Latin America, with its colonial architecture; and the wonderful Our Lady of Luján Avenue with its picturesque arches.Lujan is the main Holly virgin for the Argentineans, every year it receives millions of people, as a testimony of their deep faith.
Main Pilgrimages take place on:
May 8th (Lujan Virgin`s day)
Last week-end in September (local gauchos' pilgrims)
First week-end in October (local youth pilgrims)
Dec 8th (Virgin`s day)
Afterwards continue to Estancia Santa Susana Ranch. We enjoy typical “criollas” meals (lunch with drinks included) followed by a show of folk dances, and modern melodies. Our guided takes us to the Spanish-colonial style “casco”, with its museum. The day will end with typical activities of an estancia. After, return to our hotel for dinner and overnight accommodations. (B.D.)
DAY 4: BUENOS AIRES - COLONIA DEL SACRAMENTO
Morning check out and transfer to Buenos Aires pier to board you hydrofoil service to Colonia del Sacramento, in the neighbor country of Uruguay. 1h fast hydrofoil service to Colonia del Sacramento. Colonia del Sacramento is one of the few remains of the colonial age, declared by the UNESCO as Historic Heritage of Humanity. Visit the picturesque streets of the oldest city in the country, The streets of Santa Rita, San Gabriel, the Matriz Church, San Pedro road, the Bastion del Carmen, the famous “ Calle de los Suspiros” (Street of Sighs) used so often as a scenery for historical films, such as the cathedral and the lighthouse, and the Real de San Carlos bullring. Celebrate Mass before our return for dinner and overnight accommodations. (B.L.D.)
DAY 5: COLONIA DEL SACRAMENTO – MONTEVIDEO
Montevideo is a modern city with European flair and an appealing mix of architectural influences, After check-in to your hotel then begin your city tour. The main points of interest are the Plaza de Constitucion with the Cathedral and the Colonial Town Hall. Also see the magnificent Solis Theatre and Independence Square. Experience the old market hall at the port of Montevideo (Mercado del Puerto), a lively place with street musicians and local artists. Follow the lively street 18 de Julio, that is lined with shops, cafés and office buildings, your next stop, Mercado Agricola, recently renovated market hall where you'll get insight to the culinary customs of Uruguay. Then continue to Batlle and Ordoñez Park, passing by the Obelisk, to the Centenario Soccer Stadium which was constructed for the very first World Cup in 1930. Continue to Carrasco, enjoy an excellent view of the city. Celebrate mass then return along the coast to your hotel for dinner and overnight accommodations. (B.D.)
DAY 6: FULL DAY PUNTA DEL ESTE
Punta del Este, called the St. Tropez of Uruguay for its miles of beautiful, pristine beaches, its upscale and exclusive resort tradition, glittery nightlife and also an upscale summer population. Enjoy a scenic drive through Punta del Este’s most fashionable and impressive neighborhoods. Pass through the residential areas of Cantegril, San Rafael, Parque Golf and La Barra de Maldonado, known for its unique hanging bridges. Drive along some of Punta’s natural wonders. Stop at Punta Ballena for sweeping views of the coast, before ending your drive to Casapueblo, the home and atelier of internationally renowned artist, Carlos Paez Vilaró. Time at leisure to enjoy the beach area. After, return to your hotel for dinner and overnight. (B.D.)
DAY 7: MONTEVIDEO-IGUAZU
After breakfast celebrates mass, then depart to the airport for your short flight to Iguazu Falls. Iguazú Falls - a total of 275 falls dropping over 70m (230ft.). Garganta del Diablo (Devil’s Throat) is the most impressive waterfall, where the falling water gives the illusion of magical rainbows. The National Park is full of exotic subtropical vegetation surrounding the falls: Iguazu National Park was designated World Heritage Site by UNESCO, while the close Jesuit Missions have been declared Cultural Heritage Site by UNESCO.Iguazu Falls National Park was recently voted as one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature. follow by dinner and overnight accommodation at your hotel in Iguazu. (B.D.)
DAY 8: IGUAZU
Morning Mass at a local church, then drive from Puerto Iguazú to San Ignacio, where the Ruins are located. Visit the Mission’s Archaeological Museum and the Ruins site. The ruins are a sample of the great work by the Jesuit missionaries within the Guarani Nation. San Ignacio Mini is included as a World Heritage Site. The ruins of San Ignacio Mini are set around what used to be the Plaza de Armas: remains of the church, the cloisters, the cemetery and workshops are found here. The best-preserved features are the columns, galleries and steps of the church. Continue and visit Loreno & Santa Ana Jesuit ruins, after stop for an included lunch. Enjoy a short lecture from a local Priest from Puerto Iguazu. Return to your hotel for dinner and overnight accommodations. (B.L.D.)
Day 9: Iguazu - Buenos Aires
Breakfast, then arrival at the Argentinian National Park’s Visitors Center to board a gas-propelled train at the main station, which takes visitors to the upper falls circuit. Visitors can walk more than 3km (1.87 mi.) along the Iguazu river canyon, via the lower circuit and the upper circuit to appreciate the flora and fauna. Later depart for the airport for your short flight back to Buenos Aires. Upon arrival you'll transfer to your hotel for rest and relaxation. In the evening a wonderful Tango Show with dinner awaits you. (B.D.)
DAY 10: FULL DAY POPE FRANCISCO TOUR
Breakfast, visit sites related to Jorge Mario Bergoglio – Pope Francis life. Visit “San Carlos Borromeno church” Jorge Mario Bergoglio was baptized here. Visit the church where he took his First Communion and visit “San Jose de Flores Church” here Jorge Mario Bergoglio received “The Call of God” … Sep. 21st, teenager Jorge Bergoglio was going to meet his friends he walked by “San Jose de Flores Church” and felt a strange sensation ... he entered the church, and that day he felt and decided he would like to become a Priest. Coach to Pope´s home & the Public school where Pope Francisco attended. The school director will welcome you and will explain about the importance of public and free education in Argentina (a voluntary donation to the school is welcomed). During the tour guests will have the chance to learn unique stories about Pope Francisco`s life. Return to your hotel for dinner and overnight accommodations. (B.D.)
DAY 11: USA
After breakfast we depart for the airport for your flight home. (B.)

Hotel Information

Optional Tour Add-Ons
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