After morning hotel pickup in Buenos Aires, travel with your professional guide for about an hour west to Luj?n, a town abound with religious sites.

Visit Luj?n’s neo-Gothic basilica, built in 1937 in honor of the Lady of Luj?n, the patron saint of Argentina. Note the copper roof and bronze doors, and learn about the six million people who make the annual pilgrimage to the basilica — many of whom arrive by foot from Buenos Aires some 47 miles (75 km) away — to pray to the small Virgin Mary figure inside.

After about 45 minutes at the basilica, take a trip over to Luj?n Zoo, which features 24 exhibits spread across 37 acres (15 hectares). Your guide will designate a meeting point and time to regroup, leaving you to explore the site at your leisure. Wish you had more time to explore Luj?n? This ticket includes reentry to the zoo, so feel free to head back into the city later in the day.

Break the usual boundaries between man and wild animal and step inside enclosures. Stroke the mane of a lion, rock a baby tiger in your arms and place food into a bear’s mouth by hand. Trained zookeepers supervise each exhibit and instruct you on how to interact with the animals.

It seems obvious that you run the risk of becoming a wild animal's next meal, but the odds are actually slim to none. Trainers work with the critters constantly, making sure they are well-fed and accustomed to human interaction, thanks in part to being raised at the zoo.

For close encounters with barriers, see Asian elephants, dromedary camels, monkeys, sea lions, toucans, macaws, red deer, axis, antelopes, llamas, foxes and flamingos in enclosed habitats.

If you have little ones in your family, head over to kid-friendly areas where they can frolic with farm animals like rabbits, chickens, goats and calves; take a spin on a pony ride; check out a display of antique tractors; and work on their monkey moves at the playground.

After your once-in-a-lifetime experience at Luj?n Zoo, you’ll be transported back to your hotel by early evening. Alternatively, if you’re interested in renting a campsite on zoo property, see the Important Info tab.