A taste of Argentina: Let flavour be your guide
Join our founder Henrietta Loyd on epicurean adventure of contrasts from the multicultural Buenos Aires to the striking scenery of Salta and Jujuy in the indigenous Andean northwest. We have uncovered everything from fabulous restaurants and sensational street food to spectacular wineries, large and small, so that on this luxury Argentina group tour, you are guaranteed an authentic taste of this glorious gastronomic destination.
Argentina is renowned for its cuisine, attracting legions of foodie travellers. This luxury Argentina tour is specifically designed to avoid the tourist trails, so you experience genuine Argentinian flavours and rub shoulders with the locals in the very best spots in the city, as well as revel in the beauty of northwest Argentina’s diverse and dramatic landscapes. Woven into the tapestry of this corner of Argentina is rich native traditions and a unique culinary style influenced by its neighbours, Bolivia and Chile.
You’ll journey through Argentina’s most exclusive wineries, learning about the elaboration process, exploring the vineyards and tasting Argentina’s finest wines. You’ll also stay exclusively at one of our favourite estancias which is one of the highest vineyards in the world during your Salta wine tour, which produces wines of intense flavour, balanced acidity and perfect ripeness, with a backdrop of the majestic Andes.
The journey begins in the bustling capital city of Buenos Aires, where you’ll soak up the culture, explore its broad boulevards, neoclassical architecture and vibrantly coloured streets. As you continue into northern Argentina, you’ll find yourself surrounded by colonial architecture, which leads the way to bright red sandstone rock formations and the gateway to Argentina’s beautiful vineyards. You’ll continue to Salta, with its bijou cobbled streets, then head to La Bamba, where luxury combines with colonial elegance.
It is thanks to our close relationships on the ground that we can work with the finest guides in Argentina, all of whom are willing to share secrets most travellers would not have access to, which is what sets our luxury small group travel trips apart. This Argentina group tour is designed for individuals who are looking for a portal into one-off and unexpected Argentinian culinary moments, in search of impressive foodie experiences and undiscovered gems.
What makes this trip spectacular?
Argentina Group Tour Highlights
FIELD TO FORK: FROM LIVE CATTLE MARKET TO CONTEMPORARY ASADO
Mercado Agroganadero is Argentina’s largest live cattle auction. Access is limited to farmers; however, for this luxury Argentina group tour we’ve arranged a front row seat to watch authentic Argentinian culture unfold as the auction progresses and Argentina’s biggest meatpackers and supermarkets gather to negotiate and hustle amid relentless chorus bells chimes.
After the auction, it’s back to Buenos Aires where you have insider access to a cutting-edge part butcher’s shop, part restaurant to savour a lunch menu of classic to aged cuts cooked using modern techniques.
Salta Wine Tour and Vineyards: Cafayate
Cafayate in northwest Argentina is renowned for its wonderful wines. The region represents but a small portion of the country’s vineyards, however it claims a disproportionate share of Argentina’s wine awards. Why? Despite not being as accessible as some of the other wine regions, the grapes grown in and around Cafayate are among the best in the country, producing unique wines of high intensity and concentration.
Cafayate itself is a quaint destination with a laid-back, authentic charm, surrounded by glorious vineyards, multicoloured mountains, expansive valleys and unique rock formations. You’ll immersive yourself in this stunning region and drink in both its wines and the atmosphere: cheers.
Private cooking lesson and lunch with Le Cordon Bleu Chef
An exclusive visit to the studio of Paula Mendez Carreras in her charming hometown of San Antonio de Areco. Paula doesn’t open her doors often due to the high demands of her work, however we’ve unlocked access for our Argentina group tour. Join Paula as she combines a cooking lesson with an unforgettable banquet of dishes. Introducing you to the secrets of Argentine cuisine, as you chat and come away with anecdotes and learn about how she became an international professional cook and why, after travelling the world, she decided to settle in San Antonio de Areco.
Paula is a Le Cordon Bleu Chef and received the Grand Diplôme (known in the culinary world as the passport to international cuisine) 25 years ago. Paula now focuses on exploring and developing simpler dishes linked to Argentine traditions, paying special attention to local produce.
EXCLUSIVE STAY AT TWO OF OUR TOP ESTANCIAS
You’ll have private use of the exquisite 19th century Estancia Colome, home to the oldest working winery in the country. Nestled in the breath-taking surroundings of the Andes and Calchaquies valleys, spend your days wine tasting, exploring the countryside and enjoying farm-to-table dining.
The second takeover is at Estancia La Bamba, in the heart of the district that gave birth to the gaucho. This timeless Argentine gem offers the unique opportunity to immerse yourself in gaucho culture with a superlative equestrian experts and experiences and magnificent asado barbecues.
The Journey You Will Take
Itinerary
Journey through Argentina’s most exclusive wineries, learning about the elaboration process, exploring the vineyards and tasting Argentina’s finest wines.
Day By Day Itinerary
10th April
Day 1
Welcome to Argentina
Welcome to Argentina! On arrival a driver will be waiting to
After settling into your room, you’ll be whisked away on an immersive walk around the beautiful Buenos Aires to experience all the must-see sights. You’ll be guided through each neighbourhood, from Palermo Residential, with its quiet streets and wonderful parks and the high-end Recoleta district, home to the most palatial street in Buenos Aires, to San Telmo, the old quarter of the city, with its traditional cobblestone streets and colonial houses.
Where You Will Be Staying For Three Nights
Legado Mitico Buenos Aires
A boutique luxury hotel where tradition meets contemporary comfort, we love Legado Mitico for its endless charm and authentic Argentine décor. Located in Plaza Serrano, you are just stone’s throw away from the best bars and restaurants in Buenos Aires – ideal for an elegant night on the tiles.
11th April
Day 2
Discover Argentinian Food
Your first full day in on your luxury Argentina tour gives you a chance to discover its lip-smacking food. Expert guide Vanessa will take you on a private tour through the city introducing you to the secret spots loved by locals, for a taste of real Argentinian food at its finest. The evening will be spent at a Milonga, learning the art of the Tango and dancing with the locals as you get to know your group even better.
12th April
Day 3
Cattle Auction and Asado lunch
You’ll be up early this morning to head to Mercado Agroganadero – Argentina’s largest live cattle auction. The auction begins as chorus bells ring relentlessly and ends when a hammer firmly raps on the metal fence. A riot for the senses, you’ll witness Argentina’s biggest meatpackers hustling and negotiating deals.
In the afternoon, you will head to butcher’s shop-cum-restaurant, Corte Comedor, where you will learn about classic and modern Argentinian cooking techniques. This is followed by lunch in the restaurant, so that the complexity of these recipes and flavours can be brought to life.
13th April
Day 4
Journey from Salta to the Vineyards
A private driver will pick you up from your hotel this morning in good time to catch your flight to Salta. On arrival, you’ll be met by a private guide who will take you to your hotel. Along the way, there will be the opportunity to view Lerma Valley and its tobacco plantations, several small colonial towns and the striking Quebrada de las Conchas.
Where you will be staying for three nights
Vinas de Cafayate
Sitting at the foot of Cerro San Isidro is Vinas de Cafayate, a colonial style hotel made up of quaint rooms, each with a spacious, covered balcony and glorious views across the gardens. The perfect place for wine-lovers and foodies to immerse themselves in Cafayate’s beautiful vineyards and rolling hills, you’re guaranteed impeccable service from the welcoming staff.
14th April
Day 5
Exploring Yacochuya Winery
You’ll spend the full day exploring Yacochuya, one of the highest wineries in the world, with 30 hectares of Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon, Tannat, Cabernet Franc and Torrontes grapes. The grapes here have very thick skin as they receive harsh sunlight, which results in wines with a robust structure. Enjoy lunch at the winery before heading back to the hotel.
You’ll stay at Vinas de Cafayate Wine Resort, surrounded by hills and vineyards, and experience warm, inviting hospitality. The staff are local to the region and always keen to share their heritage and values.
15th April
Day 6
Discovering El Porvenir Winery
Next destination on our Salta wine tour is El Porvenir winery. Developed by the Romero Marcuzzi family, and is now run by Lucia, granddaughter of Roberto Romero. As well as winemaking, you will have the chance to view the vineyards, learn about the terroir of the region and the different types of grapes. You’ll also enjoy lunch in the Finca.
If you wish to be active, you can embark on a trek along an 8km stretch of canyon to La Yesera where you will discover geological formations of more than 70 million years painted in a great variety of colours.
16th April
Day 7
Journey to Estancia
After breakfast, you’ll be travelling along route 40, one of the longest and most famous stretches of road in the world. It will take you through desert scenery, small ranches, vineyards and giant limestone mountains; you will also pass by Quebrada de las Flechas (Arrows Gorge).
Bodega and Estancia Colome will be your home for the next two days. Donald Hess, who currently owns the Colome estate, first visited in 1998 in search of the perfect terroirs and weather to produce unique Argentinian wines. Colome has surpassed his expectations.
Where you will be staying for two nights
Estancia Colome
Charmingly located between lavender gardens and vineyards, each room of this gorgeous hotel enjoys its own private balcony overlooking the magnificent landscape. Relax with a glass of wine, take a cool dip in the swimming pool or soak up the magic of silence in the reading room – then make sure to explore the fantastic restaurant, where much of the food is homegrown.
17th April
Day 8
Estancia Colome
A full day of leisure at Estancia Colome. Guests can take guided tours of the winery with wine tasting, enjoy a game of tennis or play Swiss bowls, walk through the hills or simply relax in the outdoor swimming pool. The hotel hosts the museum of James Turrell, a Californian artist recognised for his artistic and architectural contributions to society all over the world.
At sunset, why not take to your private balcony and relax with a glass of wine, enveloped in nature.
18th April
Day 9
Journey to Salta
After breakfast, you’ll hit the road to Salta. On the way, you’ll visit Molinos, a tiny village where time appears to stand still. As you continue, you’ll experience one of the most breath-taking drives in Argentina, passing through the Calchaqui valley to the jungle of Yungas – you might even catch sight of a giant condor soaring above you.
Arrive at Finca Valentina, a small family-run hotel with wonderful views of the foothills of the Andes.
Where you will be staying for three nights
Finca Valentina
Located near the foot of the Andes, Finca Valentina boasts traditional Argentine architecture fused with all the trappings of contemporary living. Guests can spend their days soaking up the sun by the pool then enjoy evenings by the fireplace, playing board games and sipping delicious local wine.
19th April
Day 10
Exploring the City of Salta
Today will be spent on a guided exploration of Salta, known locally as ‘La Linda’, which translates as ‘the beautiful one’. Salta holds many important monuments and historical buildings and has kept its colonial spirit intact. One of the most stunning buildings in Salta is its Cathedral, a beautiful pink building with a golden altar. The Museo Arqueologico de Alta Montana (MAAM) will also form part of the Argentina group tour itinerary. The museum is known for its unique collection of exhibits, including mummified remains, much of which has been gathered from high-altitude Inca shrines. The evening will be spent discovering Salta’s nightlife.
20th April
Day 11
Quebrada de Humahuaca
You’ll spend the day visiting Quebrada de Humahuaca, located in the province of Jujuy. The gorge is known for its geological formations, colourful mountains and little villages dotted around the land. You’ll experience a soul-stirring local atmosphere as you explore the historic villages, including a visit to a colourful craft market in Purmamarca, a food market in Tilcara and a Pre-Inca fortress. You can also choose to take a short hike across the gorge, followed by a well-earned lunch made by Chef Maria Rodriguez.
21st April
Day 12
Estancia La Bamba de Areco
You’ll fly back to Buenos Aires where a private driver will transfer you to Estancia La Bamba de Areco, where you’ll be staying privately for the next two nights.
This colonial building is filled with charm and character, tastefully converted into a boutique luxury hotel.
Where you will be staying for two nights
Estancia La Bamba de Areco
Located just outside bustling Buenos Aires is Estancia La Bamba de Areco, an elegant colonial hotel that emanates with charm and character. Fabulous amenities combine with the warm, attentive service for a truly magical stay. Guests can enjoy a variety of activities here, from horse-riding and cycling to walking along the nearby river. This forms part of a 30-hectare park, complete with two polo fields and dotted with mature trees. In the warmer weather, many guests spend their days poolside, enjoying the beautiful surroundings.
The best bit? All meals are included so be sure to make the most of the excellent cuisine.
22nd April
Day 13
Cooking Lesson with Paula Mendez Carreras
After breakfast, you’ll have the day to spend enjoying the activities at La Bamba. As evening falls, you’ll join chef and culinary expert, Paula Mendez Carreras, who has hosted three programmes on a regional ‘gourmet’ TV channel.
Paula opens her house to special guests to teach them how to make regional specialities and traditional Argentinian food. You’ll share lunch with Paula as she reveals anecdotes and cooking secrets, including how she became an international professional cook and why Areco is her favourite place in the world.
23rd April
Day 14
Farewell Argentina
Say your final farewells as your Argentina group tour comes to an end. Your friendly driver will pick you up and transfer you to the airport for the return flight home.
Meet Your Hosts & Guides
Henrietta Loyd
Henrietta Loyd, of cazenove+loyd will personally host this trip. Henrietta founded cazenove+loyd almost 30 years ago and has travelled the globe extensively, hosting a number of luxury small group travel tours offering guests the very best experience in a country she loves.
Known for its gastronomic excellence around the world, Henrietta is now returning to Argentina to experience exquisite food and finest wines with a small group. No one can make things happen like Henrietta and cazenove+loyd is recognised for its ‘can-do’ attitude. This trip is designed to give you a taste of Argentine cuisine off the tourist radar allowing you to indulge in a truly local taste of Argentina.
Vanessa Bell
Born in Paris, raised in London and having moved to Buenos Aires in 2010. Vanessa is half-Argentine and spent her childhood visiting Argentina. From her many years travelling as a ‘visitor’, Vanessa quickly learnt that tourists are often led to the same restaurants to experience the same food, which has since been accommodated to suit the clientele. Two years after moving to Buenos Aires, Vanessa founded Crème de la Crème – a trend hunting enterprise showcasing the best the city has to offer – off the tourist circuit and radar. Our luxury Argentina tour includes a private tour with Vanessa, who will guide you through the best food hotspots in Buenos Aires so you can experience a true taste of Argentina.
Paula Mendez Carreras
Paula began training in the early 1990’s at Le Cordon Bleu Paris where she fell in love with French Gastronomy. She further developed her professional experience internationally by moving to New York, before continuing further training at Le Cordon Bleu London. Since then, she has moved back to her Native Argentina where she opened her own very successful restaurant twinned with working as an Executive Chef in one of the best restaurants in Buenos Aires. She has travelled the world searching for gastronomic discoveries on various international voyages leading to a cooking show which has been broadcast in Latin America for over 6 years. She now has a private space in San Antonio de Areco which she opens only to very special guests to share her knowledge and love for Argentine cuisine.
Photo Album
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Pricing Information
The Details
£8,728/ $10,648
per person based on two sharing
Single supplement: £3,145 / $3,838
- Accommodation, tours, transportation, meals, and transfers as set out in the above itinerary
- VAT
- All entrance fees to national parks and museums
- Local guides
- Activities as described
- International Flights
- Anything stated to be optional
- Buenos Aires City Tax
- Gratuities for guides, drivers and hotel services
- Telephone, laundry, or any personal items
- Travel insurance
- Entrance fees when you are not travelling with our guide
- Any surcharge levied on payment by Credit Cards
- Any changes you may choose to make during your holiday
What You Need to Know
The Benefits of Small Group Travel
Private Access
Our hand-picked specialists, guides and leaders ensure unrivalled insider access that you wouldn't normally be able to achieve unless you were travelling as a group, allowing guests to experience the destination in a very special way.
Specialist Guides
Small group travel gives you an amazing opportunity to spend time with true experts in their field. Each trip is accompanied by a cazenove+loyd Destination Expert– as well as top specialists, guides, and leaders.
MAKE NEW CONNECTIONS
Our Small Group Trips often form the beginning lifelong friendships. Much of the journey is spent as a group, however there is always plenty of time to relax and enjoy your own space too. Our trip leaders are brilliant at reading the group and being proactive and reactive to the flow of the trip.
DESIGNED BY EXPERTS
Each Small Group Trip is hand-crafted by one of our Destination Experts. Using their passion, knowledge, and curiosity for a destination they create a bespoke journey that showcases the wonders of the place you’re visiting.
Our Service
Getting It Right Every Time
Secure your Small Group Trip spot
Personalise + Extend
Personal Service
Immersive Travel
24/7 Service
We work in some of the most ecologically and culturally sensitive parts of the world, so have always been conscious of operating in a way that has a positive impact on both the environment and the people.
When you join one of our Small Group Trips, we will make a contribution on your behalf to one of the following charities: All About the Light Foundation in Africa, ABOUTAsia Travel & Schools in Cambodia, the Alalay Foundation in Bolivia and Scott Polar Research Institute in the Polar Regions.
If you are interested, we are always keen to get clients involved in local projects and conservation efforts. Whether it be whale counting in Antarctica or rhino relocation in Kenya, you will leave knowing your actions have made a difference.
The price of all our Small Group Trips includes domestic flights but excludes international flights. We suggest flights for our clients that work well with the itinerary and are happy to book and manage these flights. However, you can also book your own international flights if you would prefer. We can also organise private charters and private jet travel for both international and domestic flights.
We have a fantastic VIP service in place to help you navigate the airport and make your journey as smooth and easy as possible. We can collect you from your home, take you to the airport and escort you through check-in and immigration to avoid any queues, straight through to the airport lounge before boarding your flight. The same service can be put in place on your return journey.
We understand that one of the most important factors to our clients is flexibility in order to give you peace of mind when booking your trip. If you would like to discuss the latest updates on flexibility on any of our luxury small group tours, feel free to contact us.
We have excellent relationships with a handful of insurance companies who provide various forms of cover. Each one offers a different policy with varying terms and conditions, so we strongly recommend getting a series of quotes and discussing your personal requirements in detail with them in order to find the best one for you.
Booking and travelling with an accredited tour operator is more important than ever. cazenove+loyd is a bonded tour operator and is ATOL protected by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). Our ATOL number is 3208. This means that the UK government guarantees all funds paid out to a bonded operator and is bound to pay in full if the bond holder is unable to deliver as contracted. This gives our clients peace of mind and full financial protection. Please see our booking conditions for further information.
We have put the relevant measures in place on every one of our Small Group Trips, so that we are ready to welcome you safely. Sanitation and hygiene in our vehicles and the properties in which we will be staying is extensive, with cleaning protocols followed rigidly as well as other necessary safety requirements.
Each trip has a set price per person that is dependent on the intricacies of the itinerary. We have detailed above everything that is included, excluded and the cost of a single supplement if applicable. For the latest details on deposit and balance payments and schedules, please get in touch to speak to an expert.
DATES
10th – 23rd April 2024
GROUP SIZE
12
£8,807 / $10,745
Per person based on two sharing. Single supplement cost applies.
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