Top Three Wine-Focused Trips to do in South America

The rolling vineyards of South America have left an undeniable mark on the global wine scene. With a winemaking heritage spanning centuries and some of the most impressive estate designs on the planet, it’s no wonder so many vineyards across Chile, Uruguay and Argentina have earned a top spot on the <a href="https://www.worldsbestvineyards.com/list/1-50" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">World’s Best Vineyards</a> list, with six vineyards in the top 10.Our wine-focused trips will immerse travellers in the beauty and history behind each bottle, offering an inside look at the grape growing process, incredible bike rides and exclusive wine tastings.Sip and sample your way through the world’s best vineyards with our top three wine-focused trips to do in South America.

Combining a world-class winery with dreamy architecture that seamlessly hugs the landscape, it’s easy to see why VIK Chile is one of our favourite stops on our Chile Wine Country Biking trip. Just a two-hour drive from Santiago, it's impossible to miss the property’s bronze-titanium roof rising high amidst vineyards, offering a striking contrast against the majestic Andes mountains.

Chile Wine Country Biking

The Frank Gehry-designed hotel not only provides a touch of surrealism to the vineyards but has also been designed to minimize its impact on the landscape. The unique charm extends to each of its 22 suites, which have been imagined by an individual artist. Whether stepping into an azulejos-themed suite or a French-inspired suite reminiscent of the 15th century, it’s a delightful surprise to discover the theme that awaits in your room.&nbsp;The region’s wine-growing geography is similar to California, enjoying the moderating effects of the Pacific Ocean, so expect fruit-forward, bold reds and aromatic whites. After sampling premium wines and exploring the estate’s vineyards by bike, on foot or on horseback, travellers can unwind at the on-site Wine Spa, which uses products like grapeseed oil, grape skins, and of course, wine to help relax and rejuvenate.

Founded in 1987 by four passionate entrepreneurs, each steeped in extensive wine expertise, Viña Montes was born out of a shared passion to elevate the quality of Chilean wines. Today, Montes bottles are available in over 100 countries, earning global recognition for their quality and highlighting the potential of Chilean wine production worldwide.The winery is nestled in Chile's Colchagua Valley and has been designed under feng shui principles and features gravitational technology, ensuring a harmonious atmosphere that influences every stage of the winemaking process.

MONTES

Nestled in Chile's Colchagua Valley, Viu Manent was founded in 1935 by the Catalonian Viu family, who initially immigrated to Chile and opened Bodegas Viu in Santiago de Chile. In 1995, the family-owned winery officially opened its doors and has been a key player in Chile's wine tourism scene ever since. You can sleep among the vines at the winery's on-site accommodations, Vibo Wine Lodge, which we love to include on our Chile Wine Country Biking trip.

Viu Manent

Just a short drive from Jose Ignacio, Bodega Garzón has been a force to be reckoned with in Uruguay's wine scene since its opening in 2016, now celebrated as one of the region's top wineries.&nbsp;The estate's surroundings are formed from a unique geology known as the Crystalline Basement, which gave origin to the world’s oldest granite soils. These prime growing conditions, combined with its position near the Uruguayan Atlantic and the hand-harvested methods, all create the exceptional wines the estate is known for. You can sample these wines in the vineyards or paired with local cuisine at their on-site restaurant, which uses traditional open-fire cooking techniques.&nbsp;

Uruguay Multi-Active

We love visiting Bodega Garzon on our Uruguay Biking trip, where we indulge in lunch amidst the vineyards and take a tour of the modern bodega, deepening our understanding of the region’s winemaking process.

Argentina seized the spotlight on the World’s Best Vineyards list, with Catena Zapata in Mendoza claiming first place, and it's easy to see why. Established in 1902, the family-run winery boasts a unique pyramid-shaped design inspired by Mayan temples and has gained acclaim for its groundbreaking contributions to redefining Malbec. Sitting at an elevation of nearly 5,000 ft, the estate’s Adrianna Vineyard has earned the title of the Grand Cru of South America. The vineyards are also renowned for producing wines that emphasize single-terroir and high-altitude blends.

Argentina Bespoke

Whether you're cycling past Chilean vineyards or sampling local Tannant in Uruguay, these wine-focused trips promise an unforgettable journey into the heart of South American viticulture.

Sip and sample your way through the world’s best wineries with our top three wine-focused trips to do in South America

Discover Latin America

Latin America captivates with its vibrant cultures, rich character and incredible landscapes.&nbsp;&nbsp;From Costa Rica to Peru to Uruguay, Butterfield &amp; Robinson has been exploring the wonders of the region since the early 1970s—sharing our experiences and best-kept secrets with our travellers. It’s a place perfectly suited for active adventure with no shortage of things to see and do.&nbsp;Marvel at the Andes Mountains, hike the peaks of Patagonia and the Inca Trail to Machu Pichu, explore the biodiversity of the Amazon or wind down at a secluded beach. Enjoy vibrant nightlife, a burgeoning wine scene and fine cuisine. Admire art and architecture, and of course, dance!&nbsp;

Where adventure and wonder thrive

Browse our collection of Scheduled Group Trips, Self-Guided Trips and Bespoke Travel options in Latin America.

Latin America | Butterfield & Robinsno

Want sumptuous meals, world-class wines, old-world charm and zero jet lag? Bienvenido a Chile. Here, quiet roads through the countryside open up into epic ocean views along the spectacular coast. Picnics, barrel tastings and a cooking demo from one of the country’s top chefs reveal a culinary culture worth savouring. And the futuristic Vina Vik inspires all kinds of awe.

Exceptional Wines

One-of-a-kind Hotels

Breathtaking Landscapes

Wedged deliciously between the Andes and the Pacific, Chile’s wine country pairs adventure with a splash (or two) of vino. Pedal scenic countryside roads with Pacific panoramas and indulge in dreamy picnics, barrel tastings and chef-led culinary wizardry. We've convinced our winemaking friends to spill their secrets, so bring your thirst for adventure, your refined palate... and maybe stretchy pants.

A country of opposites

Want sumptuous meals, world-class wines, old-world charm and zero jet lag? Bienvenido a Chile. Here, quiet roads through the countryside open up into epic ocean views along the spectacular coast. Picnics, barrel tastings and a cooking demo form one of the country’s top chefs reveal a culinary culture worth savouring. And the futuristic Vina Vik inspires all kinds of awe.

Chile Wine Country Biking | Butterfield & Robinson

A land of dusty colonial towns and sparkling beach resorts, of rough-and-ready gauchos, subtle artists and festive plazas—this is the Uruguay we know and love. We begin in the country’s capital, Montevideo, before working our way east to cycle the peaceful countryside, stroll white-sand beaches and sip wine with local producers. Venture through the undulating green of the “Uruguayan Tuscany,” with its vineyards blanketing verdant hills, to Punta del Este, a shining, glass beacon of South American summer. Our journey wraps up in Jose Ignacio, a refined hamlet on the Atlantic coast, whose serene and sandy streets make this former fishing village the stuff dreams are made of.

Nestled between Brazil and Argentina, Uruguay is a land where sandy beach towns beckon artists in search of serenity, and vineyards rival those of France and Italy. Explore the best of this tiny country on two wheels and two feet as you bike in a private sculpture park, paddle through wetlands and cook alongside a celebrity chef. With secluded beaches, encounters with local artists and unforgettable culinary delights, you'll be planning your next visit before you even leave.

Authentic Food

Great Walks

In the Wild

Uruguay may be small, but it punches well above its weight in charm. Pedal through a private sculpture park, paddle peaceful wetlands, and cook with a celebrity chef who knows the secret to a perfect parrilla. From beachside art scenes to vineyard sips, this stylish little country serves up serenity, culture, and serious bragging rights.

South America's Best-Kept Secret

The itinerary below is a sample and is subject to slight changes in routes, accommodations and activities. Please download the itinerary for your selected departure for precise details.

Preview the itinerary 

Experience Designer

Want to see Machu Picchu after the tourists have gone? We find the best way is to sleep next door at the stunning Sanctuary Lodge. During waking hours you’ll explore the ruins of the Sacred Valley and hike the cloud forests of the Inca Trail before hopping the Hiram Bingham Train back to Cusco for a final night dinner in an ancient Incan palace.While this is a once-in-a-lifetime, bucket-list activity, the Inca Trail itself is a challenging hike without any options for easy-outs or modifications. There is no road or helicopter support, making rescues challenging and reserved for emergencies.

Unforgettable Experiences

Welcome to the Sacred Valley, where llamas have the right of way and ancient Incan echoes still bounce off the ruins. Hike past soaring peaks to Machu Picchu the proper way—on foot—then toast your triumph. Cap it off with a ride on the Hiram Bingham train. Epic? Absolutely. Otherworldly? You’ll see.

Discover the Lost City

A land of striking contrasts, discover Peru

Preview the itinerary

Peru Hiking | Butterfield & Robinson

A kaleidoscopic array of colour and adventure awaits in this biodiverse wonderland. Float through cloud forests, marvel at volcanoes and waterfalls and tune into nature’s symphony as it comes alive with the sounds of the jungle: this is Costa Rica. See it your way on a private, tailor-made trip.

Off the Beaten Path

Eco-Luxury Escapes

Costa Rica doesn’t do passive. Hike volcanoes, chase waterfalls and paddle jungle-lined rivers with howler monkeys cheering you on. Sip coffee at the source, snack on just-made chocolate and spot sloths between spa sessions. With cloud forests, private safaris and pure Pura Vida energy, this is adventure, dialled to your exact taste.

Embrace Pura Vida at every turn

Experience Pura Vida

Bespoke travel lets you take our inspirational cues and craft them into your personalized, private adventure. Collaborate one-on-one with an Experience Designer to put together your tailor-made trip.

Costa Rica Bespoke | Butterfield & Robinson

Insider Access

Regional Expertise

Peru is a place of staggering contrasts and vivid moments. Trace ancient footsteps to Machu Picchu at sunset, wander colonial streets in Cusco and find out why Lima is a global food capital. Cruise through the Amazon’s tangled beauty, watch macaws cut through the jungle sky and meet tradition head-on at Lake Titicaca. This is Peru—layered, living and endlessly compelling.

Bespoke travel lets you to take our inspirational cues and craft them into your personalized, private adventure. Collaborate one-on-one with an Experience Designer to put together your tailor-made trip.

Peru Bespoke | Butterfield & Robinson

Argentina will enchant you with its craggy mountains, cascading waterfalls, sapphire lakes and rugged glaciers. The array of the land, from the north to the south wildly differs. From the remote Salt Flats of the north, to the vast and rugged corners of Patagonia in the south. The people are incredibly diverse, from the countryside cowboys (gauchos) to the sophisticated tango-dancers (Porteños) of vibrant Buenos Aires. With such distinction, comes rich culture, tantalizing history and sinfully delicious food. Argentina is your place to dive deep and explore.

 Get inside the heart of Latin America

Argentina Bespoke | Butterfield & Robinson

Undiscovered Gems

Nature's Wonders

Great Hikes

Panama is the travel world's hidden gem in Central America—jungle calls, pirate tales and birdlife that belongs on a runway. Sip fresh coffee with howler monkeys, kayak through rainforest rivers and unwind in jungle-chic glamping or coastal luxury. From cloud forests to Caribbean coves, Panama packs a punch—and lets you claim bragging rights before the crowds catch on.

Jungle adventures and beach bliss in Central America's hidden gem

Panama Bespoke | Butterfield & Robinson

Uruguay is a discreet but exquisite blend of beauty, simplicity and luxury that places focus on quality over quantity. This is a land of dusty towns and sparkling beach resorts, rough-and-ready gauchos, subtle artists and festive plazas. Every day is different here and the diversity of landscape is unparalleled. With its up-and-coming wine industry, glamorous hotels and emerging arts scene, experience for yourself a tiny country that packs a big punch. Below are some ideas to inspire your trip.

Hamptons of the South

Uruguay is South America’s best-kept secret—think barefoot luxury, boho beach towns and gaucho grit with a glass of Tannat in hand. Wander art-filled villages, dine seaside under the stars and soak in a culture that’s quietly sophisticated and wildly charming. Small in size but big on soul, Uruguay doesn’t shout. It simply winks.

Big fun in a small package1

Big fun in a small package

Uruguay Bespoke | Butterfield & Robinson

Active Adventure

Great Bikes, Great Rides

Unique Gastronomy

From desert to glacier and vineyard to volcano, Chile is adventure in widescreen—with a splash of world-class wine in between. Hike Patagonia’s jaw-dropping peaks, raft the Futaleufú or bike through rolling vines before kicking back under the star-packed sky. With bold landscapes, bolder flavours and lodges to match, Chile doesn’t just impress—it impresses upon you.

Reasons to believe

Chile Bespoke | Butterfield & Robinson

Local Connections

Patagonia is where adventure whispers—loudly. Think jagged peaks, gaucho trails and silences big enough to get lost in. Hike past glaciers, watch condors cruise overhead and feel the edge of the world beneath your boots. Then hit Buenos Aires or Santiago for a tango-fuelled culture fix. Wild, vast and utterly unforgettable, this place is equal parts thrilling and humbling.

Patagonia Bespoke | Butterfield & Robinson

Here, you can sail into a turquoise cove with no other boats in sight, walk barefoot down a powdery white beach, sit yourself down on lava rock and watch a baby sea lion sneak up for a closer inspection. A pantheon of the animal kingdom's strangest and most wonderful creatures await just off the coast of Ecuador, and here, you'll get closer to them than you ever thought possible. Discover Ecuador &amp; the Galapagos Islands on a private, bespoke trip—tailored-made your way. Here are a few ideas to help get you started.

Land of Striking Contrasts

Vibrant Culture

Ecuador is a land of bold contrasts—snow-capped peaks, steamy jungle, and islands lost in time. Wander Quito’s cobbled colonial streets, then unwind in a mountainside hacienda with a glass of wine and panoramic Andean views. Drift through the Amazon under a canopy alive with monkeys and macaws. In the Galápagos, &nbsp;sea lions, iguanas and giant tortoises share the stage in nature’s greatest showcase. From highlands to islands, this is Ecuador in all its wild, wondrous glory.

Latin America

Top Three Wine-Focused Trips to do in South America

Chile Wine Country Biking

VIK Chile

Viña Montes

Chile Wine Country Biking

Viu Manent

Uruguay Multi-Active

Bodega Garzón

Argentina Bespoke

Catena Zapata

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