A Classic Tours Collection has been known for its solar eclipse tours for many years and is planning one Dec. 5 to 16, 2020. Journey through the heart of Argentina, uncovering signature sites – Buenos Aires, iconic Iguassu Falls. Visit the best of nature’s attractions in Argentina combined with 2020 Total Solar Eclipse. Welsh traditions in the Patagonian plateau, a glimpse of “Planet Earth the way it used to be” awaits you during your visit to beautiful towns in Atlantic Patagonia. Whales and Penguins at Valdes Peninsula! A touching show that renews and grows every year, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Other Eclipse tour options:
2020 Total Solar Eclipse – Wonders of Argentina. -15 Days: Dec. 5 to 19, 2020
2020 Total Solar Eclipse – Ultimate Argentina & Patagonia Cruise-19 Days: Dec. 5 to 23, 2020
2019 Annular Eclipse tour – India. 10 Days: Dec. 21 to 30, 2019 + Sri Lanka extension
2020 Annular Eclipse Tour – Tibet. 9 Days: Jun. 15 to 23, 2020 + tour extensions
THE WHOLE ITINERARY
Discover Argentina & 2020 Total Solar Eclipse tour begins: (New Improved- updated Aug. 28, 2019)
DAY 1 – SAT. Dec. 5: ARRIVE BUENOS AIRES
Your tour begins in Buenos Aires, the capital of the nation. This romantic city is often referred to as ‘the Paris of South America’ because of its French-style architecture and elegance. Meeting assistance upon arrival and transfer to Hotel. Rest of the day is at leisure. Buenos Aires nightlife provides its own inhabitants and visitors with numerous entertainment possibilities. This evening following a tour briefing you will attend an unforgettable tango show performed by the best dancers and singers, while enjoying a delicious meal. This is the perfect way to live Buenos Aires, the city of tango. Return to the hotel. RECOLETA GRAND HOTEL (Deluxe Studio Room) – D
DAY 2 – SUN. Dec. 6: BUENOS AIRES TOURING
Breakfast at the Hotel. Your morning is at leisure to walk around the city. We recommend visiting Planetario Galileo Galilei on your own or other places of interest to you. Given that most people are used to a different hemisphere, this planetarium in Buenos Aires offers an all new celestial experience. Shaped like the planet Jupiter, this eye-catching space museum is located in the beautiful parks of Palermo. Planetario Galileo Galilei offers a 360-degree space show, astronomical courses, and various exhibits.
Your sightseeing tour of Buenos Aires this afternoon allows you to discover the magic of this cosmopolitan city, capital of Argentina. The magnificence of the Northern Quarters, Palermo and the beauty of its parks and buildings, Recoleta with its French style architecture, bars and cafes; the imposing Colon Theater, one of the five most important opera houses in the world; Plaza de Mayo (May Square), the Government’s House (The Pink House), The Old Cabildo (Town Hall) and the Metropolitan Cathedral; San Telmo, residence of the aristocracy until the turn of the XIX century. The colors of La Boca, picturesque quarter of Italian immigrants; and the fashion area of Port Madero with its many bars & restaurants rounds off this excursion.
You may want to spend some time this evening seeing the Milongas (tango dances) in San Telmo, gaze at the huge monuments such as the Obelisk on Avenue 9 de Julio and sip fine wines at fancy restaurants in Palermo.
MILONGA is a social event or location for tango dancing—More simply, Milongas are tango dance parties. People who dance at Milongas are known as milongueros. When a group of people goes tango dancing, they go to a Milonga. Milongas are informal gatherings where regular folks dance tango ~ they’re often held in social clubs, restaurants, or bars. And the good news is: there’s a Milonga going on every night of the week in Buenos Aires! This is the city for learning how to dance tango. RECOLETA GRAND HOTEL (Deluxe Studio Room)– BL
Day 3 – MON. Dec. 7: BUENOS AIRES / IGUASSU – Argentinian side of Falls
After an early breakfast, transfer & fly to Puerto Iguazú in the northeast corner of Argentina today. The mighty Iguazú Falls straddles the border of Argentina and Brazil, and the group will be visiting the falls from both sides. The falls are over 2 km in length and consist of 275 falls in total, some of which stretch up to 80 meters high. This makes them higher than Niagara Falls and wider than Victoria Falls. A visit to the Argentinean side of Iguazu today allows you to get up close to the waterfalls via a series of boardwalks. According to Guarani legend, Iguazu Falls was created when the serpent god M’Boy, enraged by the betrayal of a chieftain’s daughter who was promised to him, split the river in half. Take a Zodiac boat ride to the base of the falls an exhilarating experience. Return to your hotel in the evening. IGUAZU GRAND RESORT (Jr. Suite Room) – BD
Note: Please bring an overnight bag for Iguassu visit. Locked big bags will be stored at Hotel in Buenos Aires
As of July 1st, 2017, all guests visiting Iguassu Falls are required to pay an eco-tax designed to help fund the preservation of the surrounding region. This tax cannot be prepaid, and is instead collected at your Iguassu Falls hotel upon check-in. This tax applies to all travelers and costs $20 ARS (Argentine Pesos) per person, per night for a maximum of two nights.
Day 4 – TUE. Dec. 8: BRAZILIAN SIDE OF THE WATERFALLS / BUENOS AIRES
Breakfast at the hotel. Later enjoy a half day guided tour to explore the Brazilian side of Iguazu Falls. Drive to the Brazilian National Park side of the falls, crossing the Brazilian border. You may want to look at some authentic Brazilian hand-made crafts before starting the short drive through subtropical, lush jungle with spectacular palm trees and lianas until you reach the proper start of the Iguazú Falls Walk. At the beginning take time to marvel at the panoramic view of the enormous Iguazu Falls emerging in front of you in all their spectacular magnificence.Walk the 1,200 meters long footbridge to experience this natural wonder from a different perspective. You will discover that these falls across the river – although they belong to Argentina – can only be seen from the Brazilian side. Take a panoramic elevator to get an even more impressive sight of this amazing scenery.
Time free until the evening flight to Buenos Aires. Transfer to RECOLETA GRAND HOTEL (Deluxe Studio Room)– BL.
Day 5 – WED. Dec. 9: BUENOS AIRES / TRELEW / PUERTO MADRYN
After Breakfast fly to Trelew, a name of Welsh origin meaning “people of Lew” in honor of Lewis Jones, a pioneer of Welsh colonization in Chubut. The city’s history is closely linked to the Welsh settlement in the province, which began in 1865. The Celtic origin of the first Welsh immigrants left its mark in the picturesque town of Gaiman. The diversity of creeds of these settlers originated the construction of more than 30 chapels, many of which are still standing. Drive around town to learn about Welsh history. Being populated by people of Welsh origin, Trelew offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy a traditional Welsh tea accompanied by many delicacies. Enjoy Welsh tea accompanied by specialties such as homemade bread, scones, homemade jams, cream and apple pies, Welsh black cake, lemon pie, chocolate and walnut cake, cake with seasonal fruits, snacks and many temptations. Next visit The Paleontological Museum Egidio Feruglio (MEF). More than 1700 Fossil pieces and 30 specimens of Dinosaurs displayed in the halls are accompanied by scale models and explanatory posters as well as video projection narrating the beginning of life on this planet. The “MEF” is now one of the most important scientific institutions in the country and an undisputed international reference in paleontology, both for discovery and research as for the samples that are presented. We will also visit the Astronomical Observatory and Planetarium before proceeding to Puerto Madryn. The quaint coastal town of Puerto Madryn is the gateway to wonderful Peninsula Valdes and Patagonia’s prime wildlife spotting experiences. DAZZLER HOTEL (Classic Sea View Room)- BL
DAY 6 – THU. Dec. 10: PUERTO MADRYN – Peninsula Of Valdes Excursion
Declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1999, we will spend the day exploring the riches of the Valdes Peninsula. A harsh yet spectacular environment, this remote peninsula is a haven for Patagonian marine and terrestrial wildlife including massive colonies of South American Sea Lion and Southern Elephant Seal. The abundance of afterbirth and young pups here attracts the attention of several scavengers and predators, including the striking Killer Whales that are known to beach themselves along this coastline to capture prey, as well as Southern Giant Petrel and unique Snowy Sheathbill that forage through the remains. The rocky coastline may hold Imperial and Rock Shags alongside the commoner Neotropic Cormorants.
Estancia San Lorenzo- Land of Penguins:
San Lorenzo is a sheep farm stretching over 5,000 hectares has a 4600-meter-long coastline on the San Matias Bay. On the property there is an awesome breeding colony of Magellanic penguins with approximately 200,000 penguins including both adults and juveniles. Together with Magellanic penguins, San Lorenzo offers the possibility of observing elephant seals, guanacos, rheas, owls, cavies and a great diversity of birds. Eventually, also Right whales and orca can be sighted. The activities offered by Estancia San Lorenzo will bring you closer to nature. There are also places to spot fossilized giant oysters.
The Valdés Peninsula is renowned for its large population of marine wildlife but with over 180 different bird species migrating to the peninsula or living here throughout the year, it’s also one of the most important birding destinations in Argentina. Expect to see: South American, royal and sandwich terns, Black-browed albatross, Southern giant petrel, Blackish and American oyster catchers, Magellanic penguin, Brown skua, Variable hawk, Great egret, Turkey vulture & Burrowing parrot. Return to Hotel in Puerto Madryn in the evening. DAZZLER HOTEL (Classic Sea View Room) – BL
DAY 7 – FRI, Dec. 11: PUERTO MADRYN- Puerto Piramids Excursion
Breakfast at the Hotel. The whale watching trip starts from a small village called Puerto Piramids. Going along the coast on both sides, the first stop is at La Lobería (sea lion colony), which is closer to Puerto Pirámides and has got 2000 specimens of whales. Sail along the coast allows us to watch many cormorant colonies. They build their nests against the cliff and there they also breed and raise their babies. Cruise also offers opportunity to observe and photograph other specimens of the coastal bird fauna. The engines are stopped when the ship gets far from the coast, silence interrupted only by the sounds of penguins, seagulls, gulls and cormorants. Something silvery and white jumps next to the ship and the strong sound of a body splashing the sea are heard. To complete this feast some dolphins always show up to jump and play in complete freedom along the Whales. Enjoy lunch at the village before returning to Puerto Madryn. DAZZLER HOTEL (Classic Sea View Room) – BL
Your afternoon is at leisure or take an optional tour from the following:
Snorkeling with sea lionsKayak with sea lionsScuba diving
Note: Advance reservations are required due limited availability.
DAY 8 – SAT, Dec. 12: PUERTO MADRYN / LAS GRUTAS
Breakfast at Hotel & travel to Las Grutas, a beach resort located in the Atlantic coast of the province of Río Negro. Its beauty resides in a beach sheltered by the cliff, and mainly the warmth of its waters, which can reach 25 degrees Centigrade in some areas. No doubt it’s the hottest beach village on the Patagonian coast. Its main attractive consists of its magnificent beaches, white sand and deep blue, transparent waters. Being in the very heart of San Matías Gulf, and having medium sized cliffs, this place has little or no wind at all, something incredible for Patagonia. Check in to your Hotel arriving in time for lunch. Rest of the day is at leisure to explore the beach, local markets and more. TERE VADO HOTEL (Standard Room) – BL
DAY 9 – SUN, Dec. 13: LAS GRUTAS
Breakfast at the Hotel. Time free to explore city on own or take optional tours from following:
Bird watching tourKayakingScuba divingFishing
Join fellow tour members to visit our exclusive eclipse viewing site so participants can familiarize themselves and also for accompanying astronomy experts to review weather reports and any related effect/changes to our viewing plans/site. Before dinner, our accompanying Astronomy expert will give us pre eclipse briefing. TERE VADO HOTEL (Standard Room) – BD
DAY 10 – MON, Dec. 14: LAS GRUTAS – Total Solar Eclipse watching
After Breakfast transfer to our exclusive eclipse viewing site scouted by our Eclipse experts. Arrive early with plenty of time to set up for the eclipse. From our exclusive site you can view 2 minute 8 seconds of eclipse where the Sun elevation will be 72 degrees above the northern horizon. It will take about 2 hours 51 minutes for the entire eclipse process. Las Grutas generally experiences clear skies in December nevertheless a bus will be at our disposal to travel along the eclipse path to seek out a clear location for viewing, if needed. A leisurely day to observe the eclipse beginning at 11.55 AM, totality occurs at 1:18 PM and the partial phases end at 2:45 PM. Buffet Lunch, water, soft drinks & Snacks, tables and chairs are provided at the viewing site. Return to hotel after the eclipse and rest of the day is free for independent activities or take an optional tour. This evening join fellow tour members for a celebratory Dinner & a report by our Eclipse experts.
Stargazing tour:
After dinner embark on a Stargazing tour. Take turns looking at the southern sky through the telescope and seeing for yourselves how night becomes day through an infrared viewer as our guide explains the stars, milky-ways & more. Return to Hotel in Las Grutas after the tour. TERE VADO HOTEL (Standard Room)- BLD
DAY 11- TUE, Dec. 15: LAS GRUTAS /BUENOS AIRES
Breakfast at the Hotel and time free until transfer to the airport to board flight to Buenos Aires. Meeting assistance and transfer to Hotel. Rest of the evening is free for independent activities. RECOLETA GRAND HOTEL (Deluxe Studio room) – B
DAY 12- WED, Dec. 16: DEPART BUENOS AIRES
Breakfast at the Hotel and time free until transfer to International airport for your flight homewards or extend your tour to explore, Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Peru & more. Ask ACTC ‘s destination experts to customize an extension tour for you. B
TOUR PRICES:
LAND TOUR: $ 7,095.00 per person sharing
Single Room- $ 8,115.00
OPTIONAL TOURS: Puerto Madryn
Snorkeling with Sea Lions- $120.00 per personKayak with Sea Lions- $ 150.00 per personScuba diving – $100.00 per person
OPTIONAL TOURS: Las Grutas
Bird watching tour: $55.00 per personKayaking : $30.00 per personScuba diving: $135.00 per personFishing: $130.00 per person
PLEASE NOTE: Group air rates from major US cities will be negotiated with the airlines and offered to participants (usually 11 months prior to departure). Airlines may require purchase of International air to receive low domestic (internal Argentina) travel rates or rates may be combined for both International and internal Argentina.
Arrival transfer in Buenos Aires is included for participants arriving on group travel flights or at same time as group travel airline. Those making own International travel arrangements can either join at Hotel on own or purchase a private transfer. Additional costs apply. Higher rates for Internal Argentina flights may also apply (subject to Airlines rules)..
NOT INCLUDED:
International and internal Argentina Airfares.Optional excursionsTips (restaurants, hotels, guides, drivers, Tour Manager etc.)Personal expensesBaggage handling and PorterageServices not mentioned in the programTravel Insurance
PAYMENTS & TERMS
An advance payment of US$1,000.00 per person and a completed Reservation Form are required to secure your reservation.A second payment of US$ 3,500.00 per person is due on or before Nov. 5, 2019.Balance payment in full is due on or before Aug.1, 2020.Cancellations must be in writing, by email, fax or letter to A Classic Tours Collection (ACTC). Penalties/refunds will be calculated based on date of receipt of written notice by ACTC.Cancellations made from the time of booking through Nov.4, 2019, will incur a US$750.00 per person cancellation fee.Cancellations made between Nov. 5, 2019 – Jul.31, 2020, will incur a US$2,500.00 per person cancellation fee.Cancellations received after Aug. 1, 2020, are fully non-refundable.Change fee of $75.00 per person/ per change applies for any change in land travel arrangements made after booking. No additional charge for additional services such as stopovers, pre & post tour extensions arranged through ACTC. Change fees on air travels apply as per airline policies. Please check at time of booking.Itinerary is subject to change due flight schedules and other implications beyond our control. ACTC Tours reserves the right to change itinerary, Hotels without prior notice.All tour prices, taxes quoted in this brochure are based on tariffs and costs that were in effect/ negotiated at the time of publication (May 6, 2019). Consequently, prices herein are subject to change. Due to currency fluctuations, oil prices, taxation changes by local authorities, increase in entrance fees to monuments may be added to your tour fee. You will be advised of details and costs prior to departure.
Traveler Health
It is each traveler’s responsibility to take all appropriate medical advice prior to booking as to whether or not they are fit enough to undertake this trip. If you have any questions regarding this, please contact us.
Trip Cancellation Insurance
We recommend purchasing travel insurance to protect your travel investment. We have preferred arrangements with Travel Guard. You may purchase from any of the links below or buy your own from a provider you prefer. Please right-click on the links below to get more details or contact us for further assistance.
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