Vino And Tango With Green Toad Bus

This trip sums up all that we love about this incredible part of the world. The Vino and Tango route with Green Toad Bus is a celebration of the continent’s red wine production that courses through the veins of every Chilean and Argentinian. The trip also rejoices in tango – that quintessentially Argentinian dance style which seems to come oh so naturally to the natives. Hop aboard Green Toad Bus’s tour and experience the best of these beautiful South American countries with enough wine to keep you nicely topped up for 8 splendid days!

The trip begins in the buzzing metropolis of Santiago – the capital of Chile and a cultural hub of cosmopolitanism nestled in an impressive, mountainous setting. Explore the city’s rich arts scene, the epic night-life, and get to know your fellow travellers before leaving behind the jagged, snow-capped mountains of Santiago and crossing the border through to Argentina.

The first stop across the border takes you to the wine capital of Argentina (if not, the world), Mendoza. This stunning region is abounding in leafy vineyards that produce a staggering two-thirds of the country’s entire wine population, and is the source of Malbec wine which is a favourite amongst knowledgeable wine connoisseurs.

Mendoza is situated in the eastern foothills of the Andes Mountains, which mean the vineyards are planted at some of the highest altitudes in the world and are surrounding by dramatic, mountainous scenery. Spend your time in Mendoza whiling away the days hopping from vineyard to vineyard. For a speedier way to get you around town, rent a bike from a local tour operator and whiz around the vineyards whilst taking in the majestic, panoramic views of the Andes Mountains.

After exploring Mendoza, the route then ventures east to the colonial heart and geographical centre of Argentina – Cordoba. This city lies in the heart of the romantic-sounding Sierra Chica Mountains, and is a firm favourite for backpackers travelling the gringo path. Holiday makers flock to this city year in year out for its architectural reminders of Spanish colonial rule that give the city such colour, character and vibrancy.

Corboda is also a popular spot for art-lovers who are attracted by its plethora of art galleries. By night, the city boasts a reputable 24 hour party scene. After discovering all this city has to offer, the Green Toad Bus heads to the eastern coast of Argentina to culture and party capital – Buenos Aires.

This city is exactly how you’d imagine the capital of Argentina – a concentration of all that is great about this marvellous country in a hip, urban setting. The city has a truly European feel, and is a goldmine of quirky bars and is home to treasure-trove antique shops where you can find some great bargains.

Buenos Aires comes alive in the evenings with bustling restaurants and bars and musicians take to the streets to showcase the best in live music from local talent. The city is, of course, the birthplace of the steamy strut that is the tango and is a mecca for carnivores making it a popular stop for backpackers on the gringo trail.

Enjoy this electric city before the trip culminates for one explosive night of tango, including a lesson from the professionals, a delectable Argentinian dinner (most likely steak-orientated) and red wine galore to help bid farewell to your Latin American adventure and fellow travellers!

Book your spot on board the Vino To Tango Hop for just AUS $410 or £214 at www.greentoadbus.com.

By Oonagh Turner