The Edge of the Diaspora: Argentina & Uruguay

Pre-trip: Iguazú Extension
May 24-26, 2026
(Itinerary subject to change)

OPTIONAL PRE-TRIP Day 1: Sunday, May 24, 2026

Transfer to the airport for early flight to Iguazú.

Group lunch in Iguazú.

Hotel check-in with afternoon at leisure to enjoy the facilities at the hotel.

Dinner and evening at leisure at the hotel.

Overnight: Loi Suites Iguazú

OPTIONAL PRE-TRIP Day 2: Monday, May 25, 2026

Breakfast at the hotel.

Full day tour of the Argentinian Falls (Lower and Upper Circuit, and Devil’s Throat).

Lower Circuit: a walking path of 1,700 meters, coming close to several waterfalls, including Garganta del Diablo, the San Martin and the Bozzetti Falls.

Upper Circuit: along the paths of this circuit, you will experience fantastic panoramic views of the falls. This circuit is 1,200 meters long and has 6 wide viewpoints. The circuit includes, among other Falls, the fall Dos Hermanas, Chico, Ramírez, Bossetti, Adán & Eve, Bernabé, Méndez and ends at the Mbiguá falls.

Devil’s Throat: to reach the Devil's Throat, you will need to take the new Ecological Train (services every 45 minutes). The trail takes around 20 minutes and starts at the Visitors Center. The Devil's Throat is a stunning waterfall, with water walls of 150 meters wide and 700 meters deep.

Lunch at leisure.

Return to the hotel for dinner and evening at leisure.

Overnight: Loi Suites Iguazú

OPTIONAL PRE-TRIP Day 3: Tuesday, May 26, 2026

Breakfast at the hotel, followed by checkout.

Half day tour of the Brazilian Falls (visa needed for US passport holders). 

Cross the border into Brazil at the Tancredo Neves Bridge (passport required).

Visit the Iguaçu National Park, and enjoy panoramic views of the falls, such as The Two Sisters, Bozzetti, the superior circuit and San Martin Island, where the movie “The Mission” was filmed.

Transfer to the airport for your flight to Buenos Aires.

Arrive at Aeroparque Jorge Newbery airport and transfer to the hotel for check-in.

The Edge of the Diaspora: Argentina & Uruguay
May 26 – June 3, 2026
(Itinerary subject to change)

Day 1: Tuesday, May 26, 2026 – Bienvenidos! Welcome to Buenos Aires

Arrive independently in Argentina’s vibrant capital, often referred to as the Paris of South America. Transfer to your hotel in Recoleta, a sophisticated neighborhood known for its leafy boulevards, elegant architecture, and cultural richness. 

Check-in our hotel and settle into your home for the next few days. Take time to unpack, refresh, and ease into the rhythm of Buenos Aires. Whether you choose to rest or take a quiet stroll nearby, this is your moment to exhale and prepare for the journey ahead. 

Gather in the hotel lobby for a relaxed neighborhood stroll. We’ll explore the elegant streets of Recoleta, getting our first glimpse of the city’s distinct architecture, tree-lined boulevards, and hidden gems. This is also a chance to begin connecting with fellow travelers in an informal and friendly setting. 

We’ll come together for our opening dinner at one of Buenos Aires’ beloved local restaurants. Enjoy delicious Argentine cuisine, toast to the journey ahead, and meet the passionate team who will be guiding and accompanying you throughout this unforgettable experience. Stories will begin to unfold, friendships will begin to form, and our shared adventure officially begins. 

Overnight: Hotel Melia Casa Lucia, Buenos Aires

Day 2: Wednesday, May 27, 2026  – The Soul of Buenos Aires: From Colonial Roots to Cosmopolitan Grandeur 

Step into the layered history and cultural vibrancy of Buenos Aires as we explore the city barrio by barrio, weaving together stories of colonization, immigration, resilience, and revolution.

Plaza de Mayo: Explore its political and spiritual significance, from the colonial-era Cabildo to the Metropolitan Cathedral. Pause at the Shoah Memorial and San Martin’s Mausoleum. 

Begin your day at Plaza de Mayo, the symbolic heart of Buenos Aires. Stand in the very place where the Madres de Plaza de Mayo have gathered for decades, demanding justice for their children who were "disappeared" during Argentina’s military dictatorship (1976–1983). Their white headscarves, etched into the pavement, remain a powerful symbol of resilience, maternal courage, and the pursuit of truth.

Just steps away is the iconic Casa Rosada (Pink House), Argentina’s presidential palace. Hear stories of Juan and Eva Perón, whose influence shaped the nation's politics and whose legacy continues to stir both passion and controversy. Imagine the balcony speeches, the crowds, and the movements that defined an era.

Next, visit La Boca, one of the city’s most colorful and artistic neighborhoods. Stroll down Caminito, a vibrant open-air museum lined with brightly painted buildings, tango dancers, artists, and musicians. The area, rooted in immigrant history and bohemian spirit, offers a lively glimpse into Buenos Aires' soul.

Enjoy a relaxed lunch in Puerto Madero, the city's sleek and modern waterfront district. Once a forgotten port area, it has been beautifully revitalized into a scenic neighborhood with upscale restaurants, river views, and contemporary design—offering a perfect contrast to the morning’s historical stops.

Step into Templo Libertad, the oldest synagogue in Argentina and a spiritual cornerstone of Jewish life in Buenos Aires. Located next to the Jewish Museum, this visit offers an opportunity to learn about the deep roots and evolving story of the Jewish community in Argentina—one of the largest in the world outside of Israel and the U.S.

Close the day with the rhythm and romance of tango. Begin with a fun and accessible tango lesson where you’ll learn the basic steps of Argentina’s most iconic dance. Then, enjoy a delicious dinner followed by a dazzling tango performance, showcasing the drama, elegance, and passion that has captivated generations.

Overnight: Hotel Melia Casa Lucia, Buenos Aires

Day 3: Thursday, May 28, 2026 – Jewish Buenos Aires: Memory, Identity, and Resilience

Begin your day in the heart of Buenos Aires’ Jewish life—the Once District. This vibrant neighborhood has long been home to a thriving Jewish community, with kosher bakeries, Judaica shops, and cultural institutions that reflect generations of Jewish presence and perseverance in Argentina.

Visit the AMIA (Asociación Mutual Israelita Argentina), the central institution of Jewish life in Argentina. Here, you'll learn about the tragic 1994 bombing that targeted the community center, killing 85 people and wounding hundreds. This visit offers powerful insights into both the pain and the resilience of the Jewish community in the face of terrorism.

Step inside one of the oldest synagogues in Buenos Aires, known for its beautiful architecture and rich history. The Paso Synagogue, dating back to the early 20th century, remains an active house of worship and a symbol of Jewish continuity in Argentina.

Enjoy a delicious lunch at Al Galope, one of the city’s best-known kosher parrillas (Argentine grill houses). Savor traditional Argentine cuisine with a Jewish twist—perfectly grilled meats, salads, and warm hospitality.

Conclude the afternoon with a meaningful visit to the Buenos Aires Holocaust Museum, which preserves the memory of the Shoah through artifacts, survivor testimonies, and educational exhibits. Nearby, pay your respects at the memorial for the victims of the 1992 Israeli Embassy bombing, a somber reminder of global antisemitism and the strength of remembrance.

Dinner and evening at leisure.

Overnight: Hotel Melia Casa Lucia, Buenos Aires

Day 4: Friday, May 29, 2026 – From Jewish Learning to High Culture

Begin your morning at the Seminario Rabínico Latinoamericano, the leading institution for training rabbis, cantors, and Jewish educators in Latin America. Engage in meaningful study and dialogue with students and faculty who are shaping the future of Jewish life across the region. This unique encounter offers insight into the vibrant, diverse expressions of Judaism emerging from South America.

Explore two of Buenos Aires’ most iconic neighborhoods. In Belgrano, stroll through leafy streets lined with elegant homes and historical landmarks, home to a significant portion of the city’s Jewish population. Then continue to Palermo, a trendy and eclectic district known for its lush parks, cutting-edge art, colorful street murals, and vibrant café culture. These neighborhoods offer a fascinating contrast between tradition and modernity.

Enjoy the opportunity to choose from one of Buenos Aires’ many outstanding cafés or restaurants. Whether you opt for a classic empanada, a light salad in a chic bistro, or something kosher and familiar, you'll have time to relax and take in the atmosphere at your own pace.

Step inside one of the most magnificent opera houses in the world—the Teatro Colón. On this guided tour, discover its opulent interiors, rich history, and superb acoustics. Opened in 1908, this architectural gem has hosted some of the most renowned performers in the world and remains a crown jewel of Buenos Aires’ cultural life.

Gather at Congregation Amijai, a modern and inclusive Jewish community known for its warm spirit and architectural beauty. Join in a joyful Kabbalat Shabbat service, light candles in fellowship, and enjoy a festive communal dinner. This is a special opportunity to connect spiritually and culturally with local Jewish life as you welcome Shabbat together.

Overnight: Hotel Melia Casa Lucia, Buenos Aires

Day 5: Saturday, May 30, 2026 – Shabbat Shalom in Recoleta

Start your day at your own pace. For those who wish, you may attend Shabbat morning services at a local synagogue and experience the rhythms of prayer and community in a Buenos Aires setting. Alternatively, take this time to rest, explore a nearby café, or stroll through the elegant Recoleta neighborhood at your leisure.

In the afternoon, set out on a guided walking tour through the historic Recoleta district, one of the city’s most refined and architecturally rich neighborhoods. Visit Nuestra Señora del Pilar, a beautifully preserved 18th-century church that reflects the colonial heritage of Buenos Aires. Then continue to the iconic Recoleta Cemetery, where elaborate mausoleums, sculptures, and tree-lined paths tell stories of Argentina’s most influential families. Among its most famous residents is Eva Perón (Evita), whose resting place continues to draw visitors from around the world.

Conclude your afternoon with a visit to the Museo de Arte Latinoamericano de Buenos Aires (MALBA), a modern museum dedicated to showcasing the vibrant and diverse voices of Latin American art. With works by Frida Kahlo, Diego Rivera, Tarsila do Amaral, and many contemporary artists, MALBA offers a powerful look at identity, politics, and creativity in Latin America. A perfect way to reflect on the intersections of culture, memory, and artistic expression.

Dinner and evening at leisure.

Overnight: Hotel Melia Casa Lucia, Buenos Aires

Day 6: Sunday, May 31, 2026 – Buenos Aires Adventure

Dive deeper into the cultural fabric of Buenos Aires with a day centered on Jewish heritage and connection. Begin in San Telmo, the city’s oldest neighborhood, where cobblestone streets and colonial architecture tell the story of its immigrant roots—including Jewish settlement in the 19th and 20th centuries. Visit a local JCC to meet members of the community and learn about Jewish life in Argentina today. Cap off the experience with a delicious kosher BBQ lunch, enjoying Argentine flavors prepared in traditional style, with all the warmth and hospitality the community is known for.

Dinner and evening at leisure.

Overnight: Hotel Melia Casa Lucia, Buenos Aires

Day 7: Monday, June 1, 2026 – From Buenos Aires to Montevideo via Colonial Charm

After breakfast and checkout, depart Buenos Aires for a scenic ferry ride across the Río de la Plata to Colonia del Sacramento, Uruguay. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the oldest towns in the country, known for its charming cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and slow-paced coastal atmosphere.

Upon arrival, enjoy a guided walking tour through the historic quarter of Colonia, where Spanish and Portuguese influences blend into a unique and picturesque setting. Stroll past whitewashed buildings, ancient city walls, and the iconic lighthouse as you explore the city's layered history, from its founding in 1680 through centuries of cultural exchange and maritime life.

Continue your journey with a comfortable transfer to Montevideo, Uruguay’s vibrant capital. After settling in, gather for an early group dinner at a local restaurant, where you’ll enjoy traditional Uruguayan flavors and hospitality. It's a warm and satisfying welcome to this coastal city as you prepare to explore more of its Jewish and cultural heritage in the days ahead.

Overnight: Hotel Hyatt Centric, Montevideo

Day 8: Tuesday, June 2, 2026 – Jewish Montevideo: Resilience on the River

Begin your final day with a visit to the Hebraica-Maccabi Sports Centre, a central hub of Jewish life in Montevideo that combines athletic, cultural, and educational programming for all ages. Nearby, pause at Golda Meir Square, named in honor of Israel’s first female prime minister, symbolizing the strong historical ties between Uruguay’s Jewish community and the State of Israel. Conclude the morning at the Community Center Synagogue, where you’ll explore the community’s spiritual and social life and learn about the history and current dynamics of Jewish life in Uruguay.

Pay tribute at Montevideo’s Holocaust Memorial, a powerful and contemplative monument set on the Rambla overlooking the sea. This striking memorial invites reflection on the tragedy of the Shoah, while also honoring the memory of Uruguay’s Holocaust survivors and the role of this small but active Jewish community in remembrance and education.

Gather one final time for a meaningful farewell dinner, sharing reflections, memories, and laughter from the journey you've taken together. Whether you came for heritage, history, connection, or curiosity, this evening offers a moment to express gratitude, build on new friendships, and carry the experience forward.

Overnight: Hotel Hyatt Centric, Montevideo

Day 9: Wednesday, June 3, 2026 – Farewell & Departure

Enjoy a final breakfast with the group, taking in the last moments of this unforgettable journey. Afterwards, transfer to Montevideo’s Carrasco International Airport for your departure flights, carrying with you the memories, insights, and connections made along the way. Safe travels and l’hitraot; until we meet again.

The Melton tour to Argentina and Uruguay will be led by Rabbi Ernesto Yattah. Melton Travel is open to adults of all ages.

While Melton oversees the educational aspects of our tours, it's important to note that we are not a travel agency. For the logistics of this trip, our travel partners in Argentina will be responsible.

Please note that Melton is not liable for any financial loss due to reasons beyond our control, such as health-related cancellations. We highly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance covering trip cancellation and health-related issues, including COVID, within a few weeks of paying your nonrefundable deposit.

Thank you for your interest in travelling with Melton. We eagerly await the opportunity to learn and explore together with you.

The Melton Travel Team

Register online now >

MAIN TRIP Price Includes:

• 8 nights' accommodations/7 days of touring 
• Deluxe air-conditioned bus 
• 8 breakfasts, 5 lunches and 5 dinners 
• All tips (except for housekeeping) 
• All educational programming and entrance fees according to the itinerary 

MAIN TRIP Hotels:

Buenos Aires: Hotel Melia Casa Lucia Arroyo 841, C1007AAB Cdad. Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina Tel: +54.11+5218.4990

Montevideo: Hotel Hyatt Centric Montevideo Rbla. República del Perú 1479, 11300 Montevideo, Departamento de Montevideo, Uruguay Tel: +598.2621.1234

Note: We will do our best to assist you with extensions both before and after the seminar.

MAIN TRIP Not Included:

• Flights
• Personal insurance 
• Personal expenses, including meals or drinks not mentioned in the itinerary, unless specified

OPTIONAL PRE-TRIP Price Includes:

• 2 nights’ accommodation in Iguazu
• 2 breakfasts, 1 lunch
• Deluxe air-conditioned vehicle with guide
• Tips (except for housekeeping)

OPTIONAL PRE-TRIP Hotel:

Iguazú: Loi Suites Iguazú

OPTIONAL PRE-TRIP Not Included:

• Flight: Buenos Aires – Iguazu – Buenos Aires
• 1 carry on + checked luggage maximum 15kg per person
• Price to be confirmed on booking – estimated between $600-$800

Need to Know

A non-refundable deposit of US$1,250 is due upon registration. If the trip is cancelled, the registration fee will be refunded. 

The final balance will be due by December 4, 2025. All cancellations must be submitted in writing. After December 4, 2025, there will be no refunds, nor will there be refunds for unused services. Please purchase travel insurance within 21 days of making this deposit.

Meals are included as indicated in the itinerary. Group rates are per person and a minimum of 15 fully paying participants.

A Melton educator will be with the group throughout the tour.

Activity level: Participants should be comfortable getting on and off a bus multiple times a day, as well as walking and standing during site visits. Some days may be more physically demanding than others. If a day’s activities are too challenging, our staff and educators will do their best to arrange for the traveler to stay with the driver, relax at a nearby café, or arrange for a taxi, with costs covered individually. 

All gratuities are included.

Baggage: Melton shall not be held responsible for any damage to or loss of luggage/personal items. All damage/loss must be reported at time of incident and documented in writing by local authorities for submission to the insurance company. Regarding airline baggage allowance, different carriers have different regulations for business and coach, please check with your individual carrier about permitted number of pieces, weights, and dimensions. Melton is not responsible for fees levied by any air carrier for the transport of personal belongings of any kind.

Not Included

• Flights 
• Personal insurance 
• Personal expenses, including meals or drinks not mentioned in the itinerary, unless specified

Melton Travel recommends  Forbes Advisor for the most up-to-date travel insurance comparisons. Consider travel protection for:

• Trip Cancellation
• Trip Interruption
• Emergency Medical Expenses
• Emergency Evacuation/Repatriation of Remains
• Trip Delay
• Baggage & Personal Effects
• Baggage Delay

Please Note: To be eligible for the waiver of pre-existing medical condition exclusion, the protection plan must be purchased within 21 days (about 3 weeks) from the time you make your initial trip deposit, the entire non-refundable amount of the trip must be insured, and you must be medically able to travel at the time the premium is paid. However, the travel protection plan itself can be purchased any time prior to departure.

Additional Information

Airline Security Measures: Your name must match the name on your tour reservation and airline ticket, or you may be denied boarding. If you are traveling from an airport outside the jurisdiction of the U.S., you will need to determine what travel documentation and identification are required for that airport.

Due to heightened security regulations, certain items such as a metal nail file, pocketknife, cigarette lighter or tweezers, and some liquid, gel, or aerosol items may not be permitted in your carry-on luggage. Please call your airline prior to departure to obtain current information on non-permissible carry-on items and recommended airport check-in times. You may also wish to visit the Transportation Security Administration website at www.tsa.gov to obtain more information on acceptable identity documentation and prohibited luggage items.

Holidays and Museum Closures: Museum visits and personal shopping time may be disrupted due to unforeseen circumstances or state and local holidays observed in the destinations being visited.

Photography During Tours: We will occasionally use photographs taken by fellow guests or your trip director for promotional purposes. If you prefer your photo not used in any marketing activities, please notify us at the start of your tour.

For more information, please contact us here.

Or call: 1–646–921–0747, Ext. 4