Total Access Boots-on-the-ground Trip
Witnessing Transformation Across Río de la Plata: An Argentina-Uruguay Journey
March 2026
Over the past year, many of our Total Access members have asked the same thing: When are we going to Argentina? In response to your requests—and because we believe the time has never been better—we’re thrilled to unveil our March 2026 journey.
And we’re not just going to Argentina—we’re crossing into Uruguay too, because the most intriguing stories in South America are unfolding across both sides of the Río de la Plata.
Argentina stands at a historic inflection point. A bold new president is dismantling decades of economic orthodoxy, cutting through bureaucratic red tape with a chainsaw—literally and figuratively. As the world watches this dramatic shift unfold, we’ll be on the ground, meeting with the architects of this transformation: legal experts, residency specialists, and real estate professionals who understand what these seismic shifts mean for savvy international investors.
But here’s what makes this trip extraordinary: we’re not just analyzing Argentina’s revolution—we’re experiencing its soul.
Picture this: You’re standing in the middle of a pristine polo field at La Dolfina, South America’s finest polo estancia, learning to swing a mallet from professional players who’ve competed at the highest levels.
Later, in a converted mechanic workshop in Buenos Aires, you’re getting a masterclass in asado from a local asador who treats fire and meat like a sacred ritual. You’re not just eating dinner—you’re participating in Argentina’s most cherished tradition, watching perfectly seasoned cuts transform from raw to sublime while learning the techniques passed down through generations.
As night falls, the cobblestone streets of San Telmo come alive. You’re in a private room at Michelangelo Legend, a historic venue where 20 artists on stage tell tango’s story through orchestra, voices, and guitar, while four tango couples demonstrate why this dance captivated the world. And yes—you’ll learn a few steps yourself before the evening ends.
Then comes the plot twist that elevates this journey from great to unforgettable. We cross the Río de la Plata by a privately chartered ferry to enter a completely different world.
If Argentina is passionate, Uruguay is an elegant understatement.
In Carmelo’s rolling wine country, you’ll discover why Uruguay’s Tannat grape is quietly conquering international palates. We’ll visit El Legado and El Cordano—intimate, family-run wineries where you’ll stroll through vineyards, learn about terroir, and taste wines that rival anything from Bordeaux or Napa.
But the real magic happens at sunset: horseback riding through native forests and along pristine beaches, followed by dinner in an exclusive cava at Finca Narbona, reserved just for our group. Picture candlelight reflecting off wine bottles, the sound of waves in the distance, and conversations that range from investment strategies to life philosophy.
Our exploration continues in Colonia del Sacramento, a UNESCO World Heritage site where cobblestone streets tell stories from when Portuguese and Spanish empires clashed. Your expert guide will reveal hidden corners and forgotten tales that bring centuries of history to life.
Finally, we arrive at Montevideo—Latin America’s most underrated capital. Here, sophistication doesn’t shout; it whispers. You’ll meet with local legal and RE experts, and discover this refined city at your own pace with your private guide, followed by a farewell dinner at Manzanar, that perfectly captures Uruguay’s understated elegance.
This isn’t just cultural tourism or investment scouting—it’s strategic immersion.
Argentina offers dramatic opportunity amid transformation: new policies creating unprecedented openings for foreign investment, residency programs becoming more accessible, and real estate markets presenting compelling value propositions.
Uruguay provides the stability playbook: a country that’s quietly built one of Latin America’s most reliable legal systems, and most attractive residency programs—all while maintaining a quality of life that rivals Europe at a fraction of the cost.
Together, they represent the full spectrum of South American opportunity: revolutionary potential and proven stability, passionate culture and refined living.
Most importantly, you’ll return home with more than memories and photos.
You’ll have genuine insights into two countries that could play significant roles in your international strategy, relationships with local professionals who can help you navigate opportunities, and a deeper appreciation for why this corner of South America is capturing the attention of sophisticated internationals worldwide.
As with every TA journey, perhaps the greatest asset isn’t the destination—it’s your fellow travelers. These are people who understand why freedom of movement matters, why having options is essential, and why experiencing a culture authentically reveals opportunities that others miss.
The conversations during polo lessons, the insights shared over Tannat wine, the strategies discussed during Buenos Aires city walks—this is where some of the trip’s greatest value emerges.
You’re not just gaining knowledge about Argentina and Uruguay; you’re building relationships with a curated community of intelligent, internationally-minded individuals who could become collaborators, advisors, or simply great friends for years to come.
There’s no substitute for discovering new frontiers in the company of people who truly understand why the journey matters.
Itinerary
DAY 1
Welcome to Buenos Aires
Upon your arrival in Buenos Aires, a local guide will welcome you at the airport and assist with private transfers to your accommodation.
The remainder of the day is yours to relax after your journey or explore the hotel’s amenities as you ease into the vibrant energy of Argentina’s capital.
In the evening, you’ll gather with your fellow TA members for a welcome dinner at Fervor Brasas, located just a short walk from your hotel, where you’ll enjoy exceptional Argentine cuisine while getting acquainted with the group and receiving an overview of the exciting week ahead.
Your home for the first 3 nights will be MIO Buenos Aires, an elegant and chic boutique hotel in the heart of the city.
ACCOMMODATION: MIO Buenos Aires
DAY 2
Discovering Buenos Aires and Meeting Local Experts
Day two brings a comprehensive exploration of Buenos Aires, a city that serves as both gateway to Argentina’s highlights and a major attraction in its own right.
Your tour begins at Plaza de Mayo, the historic heart where you can admire significant buildings like the Metropolitan Cathedral and the Casa Rosada, seat of the government. You’ll then explore San Telmo with its cobblestone streets, antique shops, and lively street art that offers a glimpse into local culture, followed by La Boca, famous for its colorful houses and tango heritage, where you’ll stroll along Caminito, a vibrant street filled with artists and musicians.
Your city tour continues to Puerto Madero, a revitalized waterfront area featuring modern architecture and stunning skyline views, before concluding in Recoleta, home to the renowned cemetery where Argentine icons like Evita Peron are buried.
During the tour, you’ll stop for lunch at Il Matterello La Boca, a charming restaurant set in a traditional conventillo offering authentic Italian-Argentine cuisine.
The afternoon features strategic meetings with legal experts, real estate specialists, and other local professionals who will provide insights into Argentina’s current transformation and opportunities for international residents and investors.
The evening brings a truly authentic experience as you participate in a family asado in a refurbished mechanic workshop that celebrates Argentine culture. You’ll watch skilled asadors grill various meats to perfection while learning about cooking techniques and the significance of this culinary ritual, all complemented by local wines and engaging conversations that provide insight into Argentine hospitality.
ACCOMMODATION: MIO Buenos Aires
DAY 3
Argentine Heritage - Polo, Asado & Tango
Day three offers an unforgettable immersion into Argentina’s most celebrated traditions at La Dolfina Polo Club, the legendary home of Adolfo Cambiaso, widely recognized as the greatest polo player of all time.
This exclusive polo experience at Argentina’s premier club includes comprehensive instruction on the sport’s history, strategy, and global significance, along with insights into polo pony training.
You’ll participate in hands-on polo lessons where professional players teach you to ride and swing a mallet in a safe, fun environment, followed by an exhibition match where you can watch professionals play and potentially join a friendly match yourself.
A traditional Argentine asado serves as your gourmet BBQ lunch in the unique setting of this world-renowned polo club.
The evening takes you to the heart of San Telmo’s tango culture at Michelangelo Legend, where you’ll begin with a tango lesson learning basic steps from expert instructors.
Following your lesson, you’ll enjoy dinner at Salón Arrogante in a private room exclusively reserved for your group, before experiencing a spectacular tango show featuring 20 artists who present the history of tango through orchestra, voices, and guitar, complemented by four professional tango couples whose performances will captivate you throughout the evening.
ACCOMMODATION: MIO Buenos Aires
DAY 4
Crossing the Río de la Plata to Uruguay
After a late breakfast and checking out from your Buenos Aires hotel, you’ll board the privately chartered ferry to Carmelo, Uruguay, crossing the historic Río de la Plata that separates these two fascinating countries.
Upon arrival, your local Uruguayan guide will welcome you and accompany you as you begin exploring this tranquil region, starting with lunch at Basta Pedro where you shouldn’t miss trying the famous Uruguayan Chivito, though pasta options are available as well.
Following lunch, you’ll have time to settle into your new surroundings and experience the shift from Buenos Aires’ bustling energy to Uruguay’s more relaxed pace.
The afternoon allows you to relax and enjoy the amenities at your new accommodation, including the adjacent golf course for those who wish to play a round in Uruguay’s beautiful countryside, while absorbing the peaceful atmosphere that characterizes this part of Uruguay. .
Your evening concludes with dinner at Pura Restaurant, where you’ll enjoy a three-course meal paired with exceptional Narbona wines, providing your first taste of Uruguay’s sophisticated wine culture.
ACCOMMODATION: Carmelo Resort & Spa
DAY 5
Carmelo Wine Country & Horseback Adventure
Your exploration of Uruguay’s wine heritage begins at El Legado, a charming boutique winery where you’ll be welcomed into the world of local winemaking with a stroll through the vineyards to learn about the meticulous care vines receive throughout the seasons.
Your visit includes guided tastings of their signature labels, offering a true taste of the terroir that makes Uruguay’s wines increasingly celebrated internationally. You’ll then continue to El Cordano, another family-run winery steeped in tradition, where you’ll enjoy a guided visit followed by lunch paired with local wines.
As the sun begins to set, you’ll embark on a horseback adventure through the forest and along the beach, departing directly from your hotel. While riding, you’ll follow scenic trails that wind through native woods and coastal paths, soaking in the natural beauty and tranquil sounds of the Carmelo countryside.
Your evening culminates with dinner at Finca Narbona, hosted in an exclusive cava reserved just for your group, creating the perfect conclusion to a day filled with nature, flavors, and Uruguay’s vibrant wine culture.
You’ll return to Carmelo Resort & Spa for another restful night in your luxurious suite.
ACCOMMODATION: Carmelo Resort & Spa
DAY 6
From Carmelo to Colonia and Montevideo
After enjoying breakfast, you’ll bid farewell to Carmelo and embark on a scenic drive to Colonia del Sacramento, approximately one hour away.
Upon arrival, you’ll be taken to the entrance of this UNESCO World Heritage site for a guided walking tour through cobblestone streets and past the main landmarks of this historically significant city. Your expert guide will share stories, historical context, and insider insights that bring the city’s colonial past to life, including tales of the Portuguese-Spanish conflicts that shaped this region.
During your visit, you’ll enjoy lunch at Bohemia Bistró with beautiful views of the Río de la Plata before continuing your journey with a scenic two-hour drive through Uruguay’s pastoral landscape to Montevideo.
Upon arrival in the capital, you’ll check into your accommodation and later enjoy dinner at Garcia Restaurante, located just a short distance from your hotel and offering your first taste of Montevideo’s refined dining scene.
You’ll spend your last two nights at Sofitel Montevideo Casino Carrasco & Spa, representing the pinnacle of luxury accommodation in Uruguay’s capital.
ACCOMMODATION: Sofitel Montevideo Casino Carrasco & Spa
DAY 7
Strategic Montevideo - Plan B Insights & Personal Discovery
Today combines strategic planning with personal exploration, as half the day is devoted to important meetings with residency specialists and real estate professionals who will provide detailed insights into Uruguay’s attractive options for international residents and Plan B strategies.
The remaining time is entirely yours to enjoy at your own pace, with a private vehicle and a professional guide at your disposal to explore Montevideo’s highlights such as the historic Ciudad Vieja, the vibrant Mercado del Puerto, beautiful Pocitos Beach, or sophisticated shopping districts.
To close this unforgettable journey, you’ll be treated to a special farewell dinner at Manzanar, a perfect setting to celebrate the experiences shared and toast to the memories created with your fellow members throughout this remarkable adventure.
ACCOMMODATION: Sofitel Montevideo Casino Carrasco & Spa
DAY 8
Goodbye Uruguay
Your South American adventure comes to a close as you enjoy a final breakfast at the hotel, remembering the unforgettable experience exploring these two fascinating countries.
After breakfast, you’ll be transferred to the airport via private transfer ensuring a comfortable departure as you begin your journey home with new insights, lasting memories, and valuable connections forged with like-minded travelers who share your appreciation for authentic cultural experiences and international opportunities.
Accommodations: Three Exceptional Hotels
MIO Buenos Aires is a sophisticated boutique hotel in the heart of Recoleta neighborhood in Buenos Aires, entered through an impressive six-meter-high French oak door crafted from wine barrels from the family vineyard.
Masterminded by cousins of the renowned Catena wine family, this 30-room property is artistic and warm with an unpretentious luxury and nominated in the World Luxury Hotel Awards.
Located in upscale Recoleta, just 350 meters from the famous Recoleta Cemetery and a short walk from numerous cafes, shops, and restaurants, the hotel offers an ideal base for exploring Buenos Aires’ most elegant neighborhood.
Rooms feature comfortable beds, spacious suites equipped with artisanal bathtubs, rain showers, and private balconies.
The hotel also features a hidden wellness refuge called 8th Spa, offering spa treatments that immerse guests in deep relaxation, along with an indoor swimming pool.
Located in Carmelo, Uruguay’s quintessential wine region, Carmelo Resort & Spa sits in the heart of a lush pine and eucalyptus forest on the banks of the Río de la Plata.
This luxurious five-star retreat, formerly affiliated with Four Seasons and later with Hyatt, is considered one of the top 10 resorts in Central and South America. Guests enter through a massive, intricately hand-carved door imported from Bali into a four-level reception area with a granite fireplace and impressive wrought iron chandeliers, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere with the unexpected Asian design influences in the Uruguayan countryside.
The resort features 44 charmingly decorated accommodations each with private wood-burning fireplaces, and terraces perfect for outdoor dining and relaxation.
Spacious bathrooms feature heated floors, deep soaking tubs, and separate glass-enclosed showers, with select bungalows offering secluded gardens with outdoor showers.
The property includes an adjacent golf course, providing an excellent option for golf enthusiasts to enjoy Uruguay’s beautiful countryside.
Dining options include the Balinese-decorated Pura Restaurant offering authentic Uruguayan countryside cuisine with a wood-burning clay oven and indoor barbecue pit for traditional asado, while the Río Bar provides fresh seafood with views over the Río de la Plata.
The spa is considered a sanctuary of relaxation, awarded for the quality of its facilities, with interior design and beautiful forest views creating the perfect atmosphere for finding inner peace.
Guests can enjoy the 24-hour outdoor pool with palapas (palm-roofed canopies) for poolside relaxation, while the Chandra Spa and Fitness Center offers cardiovascular machines, dry sauna, massage services, and an indoor heated pool.
Built in the 1920s, this Belle Époque landmark is the centerpiece of the urban plan designed for the Carrasco neighborhood by French landscape architects Charles Thays and Edouard André, with an eclectic-historicist architectural style featuring neoclassical and baroque elements inspired by European palace hotels.
Located in the exclusive Carrasco district, considered the best location in Montevideo, the renovated hotel takes guests back in time to the glamor and history of the early 20th century.
The property includes the acclaimed 1921 Restaurant and Bar, which transports guests to a world of elegant sophistication with dishes created using local ingredients as part of the hotel’s sustainability commitment.
The Thays Lounge Bar offers tea service, international cocktails, and an extensive Uruguayan wine list from all regions in a modern atmosphere with the chic style characteristic of Sofitel.
The Sofitel Spa features a hammam, restorative massages and facials, a fitness center, dry sauna, and a tranquil secret garden.
The hotel’s most striking feature is the indoor/outdoor heated pool lined entirely with brown marble set with gray flecks, reflecting the colors of the Río de la Plata that has witnessed both the rise of the original Hotel Casino Carrasco and its rebirth as the Sofitel Montevideo.
Located just minutes from Carrasco Beach and a 5-minute drive from Montevideo’s international airport, guests can enjoy the sophisticated Carrasco neighborhood with its safe streets and excellent restaurants within walking distance.
Useful Information
Travel information
U.S. and EU citizens as well as Canadians traveling to Argentina or Uruguay for tourism purposes do not require a visa for stays of up to 90 days.
A valid passport with at least six months of remaining validity from your entry date is necessary. Currently, there are no special vaccinations or entry permits required for either country. That said, you may want to obtain comprehensive travel insurance that includes medical coverage, trip delay, and cancellation protection for peace of mind during the journey.
Climate & Weather
March marks the beginning of autumn in the Southern Hemisphere, bringing with it mild and comfortable weather in both Argentina and Uruguay.
In Buenos Aires, daytime temperatures typically range between 75 and 80°F (24–27°C), with evenings cooling down to about 60 to 65°F (16–18°C). The city enjoys mostly sunny skies with occasional humidity and light breezes.
Carmelo and Montevideo in Uruguay offer a similar climate, with slightly cooler evenings and temperatures ranging from 72 to 78°F (22–26°C) during the day and around 58 to 64°F (14–18°C) at night. These conditions make March one of the most pleasant times to explore both countries, though a light layer or jacket will come in handy for evenings, especially near the coast.
What to pack?
Because this trip blends urban sophistication with countryside charm, we encourage you to bring a thoughtful mix of attire. Casual but elegant clothing is ideal for daytime tours and wine tastings, while more formal wear is suitable for the tango show, fine dining, and evening outings.
Comfortable walking shoes are essential for city exploration and vineyard visits. For the day spent at the polo estancia and the horseback ride in Carmelo, jeans and sneakers or similar casual wear are recommended.
Swimwear may be useful at hotel pools or spa areas, and sun protection—sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen—will help you stay comfortable outdoors.
For cooler evenings, you may want to pack a light jacket or sweater.
Electrical Outlets
Electrical outlets in both Argentina and Uruguay provide 220 volts of power at 50 hertz. Plug types C and I are commonly used. Most modern electronic devices such as laptops and smartphones are dual voltage and will only require a plug adapter, not a voltage converter. We recommend bringing at least one universal adapter to ensure compatibility with local outlets.
Currency
Both Argentina and Uruguay have their own currencies: the Argentine peso (ARS) and the Uruguayan peso (UYU). Credit cards are widely accepted in major cities and tourist areas, although smaller shops or countryside venues may prefer cash. ATMs are available but may charge relatively high withdrawal fees for international cards.
Includes
Accommodations (7 nights total with breakfast):
- 3 nights at MIO Buenos Aires boutique hotel
- 2 nights at Carmelo Resort & Spa
- 2 nights at Sofitel Montevideo Casino Carrasco & Spa
All meals mentioned in the program:
- Welcome dinner at Fervor Brasas
- All lunches and dinners specified in the itinerary
- Family asado experience in converted mechanic workshop
- Tango dinner show at Michelangelo Legend (private room)
- Wine-paired dinner at Carmelo Resort & Spa
- Exclusive cava dinner at Finca Narbona
- Farewell dinner at Manzanar in Montevideo
Unique Cultural Experiences:
- La Dolfina Polo Experience with Adolfo Cambiaso’s club
- Traditional Argentine asado cooking masterclass
- Tango lesson and private show performance
- Horseback riding through forests and beaches at Carmelo
- Wine tastings at El Legado and El Cordano boutique wineries
Professional Guided Tours:
- Comprehensive Buenos Aires city tour with expert guide
- UNESCO World Heritage Colonia del Sacramento walking tour
- Strategic meetings with legal experts and real estate specialists in Argentina
- Half-day meetings with residency and Plan B specialists in Uruguay
All Transportation:
- Private airport transfers for each everyone in both countries
- All ground transportation throughout the itinerary
- Private chartered ferry transfer from Buenos Aires to Carmelo
- Private transportation and bilingual guide for Montevideo exploration
Additional Services:
- Professional bilingual guides throughout
- All entrance fees to attractions mentioned
- Access to resort amenities including golf course at Carmelo
Excludes
- International flights to/from South America
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses and gratuities
- Meals not specified mentioned in the itinerary
- Optional activities not in the itinerary
- Early check-in or late check-out fees
- Spa treatments and personal services
- Any pre- or post-trip extensions
Cancellation Policy
We are so excited to see the interest in this trip, and worked hard to negotiate the best price on all of these high-end experiences, exclusively for our members.
Please note that due to the nature of the trip and the size of the group, we can only allow cancellations if we can find a replacement for your spot.
Please remember to check your calendar first… Cancellations/refunds will only be issued if a replacement is found.
Price
TBD
Sign ups will open tomorrow, February 7th
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