Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay: Copacabana to Iguazú Falls

Bristling with excitement, you hop out of bed early and can already feel that this adventure's gonna be extra special! You can't wait for it to start! With your suitcases packed and wearing a huge sun hat, you're champing at the bit to get to the airport. As the plane rolls down the runway and takes to the sky, your tummy is already tingling. Only a few hours separate you from your destination. 'Uruguay, here I come!' Your eyes fall shut, and the next time you open them, you're almost there!

You've finally made it to Montevideo. The ocean glistens at you enticingly as you head along the coast to where you'll be staying. After a quick check-in, it's straight on to the city centre! As you stroll down the Rambla, a wide waterfront promenade, you pass the neighbourhoods of Palermo and Barrio Sur, and the view of the coast is simply magical! Your walk brings you to the Plaza Independencia, a square that's chock-a-block with must-sees. You make your way past the famous Puerta de la Ciudadela and Palacio Estévez then see the city's landmark towering in front of you: the Palacio Salvo, an impressive work of architecture once famous for being the tallest building on the continent. After a few selfies, the hustle and bustle of the Ciudad Vieja lures you deeper into the city centre and you follow the lively buzz across the old town for a while. Then with a mate in hand, you explore the colonial buildings and the city's colourful murals in the shade of the palm-fringed avenues – and it's better than any museum could ever be!

Heavenly aromas fill your nose as you stand in front of the flower-lined entrance to the Mercado Agricola, mulling over what to try first. After a refreshing acai bowl, it's time to explore. A local guide shows you the many facets of Montevideo from urban modernity to Latin American equanimity, and you admire the impressive architecture of the Mercado del Puerto while munching on a chivito – delicious! Pose for a selfie at the Catedral Metropolitana, dive into the buzz on Avenida 18 de Julio and be left gobsmacked by the stately feel of the Legislative Palace. The last highlight of the day? Centenario Stadium – one of the world's most venerated sporting arenas and a must-visit for all football fans! And after a day full of experiences, the Parque Rodo makes the perfect spot for a little break from the city's hustle and bustle.

One glance out the window and you know it's the perfect day for the beach. With the sun shining brightly, you plunge into the waves at the city's largest and most popular stretch of shore, Playa Malvin. The cool water is a truly welcome refreshment, and the warm sand between your toes and the heat on your skin feels absolutely amazing. Don't want to laze around all day? Due to its wild surf, Playa Montoya is a popular choice for kitesurfers and windsurfers alike. So put on a wetsuit and catch some waves (optional, payable on site)! Or relax with a nice cold drink before showing off your skills in a volleyball or football match with the locals to the sound of booming bass!