Brazil·July 17 - 24 2024

Samba & Sunsets: Discovering Brazil's Charms

From Rio to the beaches of Ipanema to the lush landscape of the Iguacu Falls and almost everywhere in between!

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Overview

We've created a once-in-a-lifetime adventure to the lively and breathtakingly beautiful Brazil. Here, we'll indulge in the natural and cultural wonders of this incredible South American country. We'll take in the iconic views of Rio from the top of Corcovado Mountain and marvel at the majestic statue of Christ the Redeemer. We'll relax on the soft, white sands of Ipanema, sipping on caipirinhas and soaking up the sun. We'll also satisfy our shopping urge at Rio's lively markets and boutique stores. Then, we'll decamp into nature, delighting in cascading waterfalls and lush foliage beyond the city, a tranquil escape from the bustling streets. We'll indulge in delicious and authentic Brazilian cuisine, full of savory flavors and delicious fresh ingredients. Why not extend your stay and explore the Amazon? Here, we'll immerse ourselves in the natural beauty of the world's largest rainforest. For three days, we'll venture into the heart of the jungle, canoeing through winding waterways, spotting caimans, watching the sunrise over the canopy, hiking in the jungle, and learning from the local community. This is an opportunity to profoundly connect with nature and experience the wonder of the Amazon. Join us for an extraordinary journey to the heart of Brazil, where adventure and cultural immersion wait at every turn!

Highlights

Boutique shopping in iconic Ipanema

Boutique shopping in iconic Ipanema

View Christ the Redemer from a cog train

View Christ the Redemer from a cog train

Admire Rio from Sugarloaf Mountain

Admire Rio from Sugarloaf Mountain

Spend the day at the Imperial City of Petropolis

Spend the day at the Imperial City of Petropolis

Discover the flora and fauna in Iguacu National Park

Discover the flora and fauna in Iguacu National Park

Experience the world largest waterfalls from two countries

Experience the world largest waterfalls from two countries

Devour Brazilian food at amazing restaurants

Devour Brazilian food at amazing restaurants

Itinerary

Here's a day-by-day overview of the trip.

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Arrival

Day 1: Wednesday, July 17th, 2024

Our English-speaking guide will meet you at the airport and drive you to your Rio hotel, Hotel Miramar, by Windsor

The rest of the day is yours to relax at the pool or explore the area around the hotel. 

We'll meet tonight on the Hotel Roof Top for a welcome drink, followed by dinner at Alloro al Miramar. 

Get a good night's sleep as the tour kicks off tomorrow morning.

Included

Dinner

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Corcovado Mountain by Train

Day 2: Thursday, July 18th, 2024

After breakfast, we'll visit Christ the Redeemer atop Corcovado Mountain. It is one of the most visited monuments in the world. The journey up Corcovado begins on a cog train in Rio‘s Cosme Velho district. The incredible views over the city will stun you on the way up. Christ the Redeemer stands on the top, looking over the city, its inhabitants, and visitors. 

Lunch is at a must-visit restaurant! Marius Degustare invites you to taste a refined selection of meat, fish, and seafood and indulge in the fun atmosphere.

After a delicious lunch, you're off to the barrio of Ipanema, the area that gives the world-famous beach its name. A few streets behind the beach, you'll discover vibrant Rio life. Discover small, distinctive boutiques, shops, and stores selling local chocolate, gin, and fine South American wines. 

Tonight, we'll dine as a group at a local restaurant known for its pasta. Cedilha is small and cozy, with attentive waitrons and very good food. Leave room for the exceptional dessert. 

Sleep will come easy after a long day.

Included

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

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Trip to Sugarloaf Mountain

Day 3: Friday, July 19th, 2024

After breakfast, we'll spend the morning at Sugarloaf Mountain. Because of their height and excellent views, Sugarloaf and Corcovado offer some of the most beautiful viewpoints in Rio. You'll undoubtedly take the famous postcard picture from the cable railway on the way up. Our first stop is Morro da Urca, where we'll change trains and head to our final destination. Once we reach the top of Sugarloaf Mountain, you'll relish the views over the Rio and Niteroi beaches as well as the Atlantic rainforest along the coast.
 
For lunch, we'll eat at Emile's. The menu consists of fresh, local ingredients carefully prepared by a talented team. 

The afternoon is yours to enjoy as you please.  More shopping? A sweet snack or perhaps some beach time. 

We'll have dinner at Satyricon, eating authentic Mediterranean cuisine. From fresh fish and seafood to specialty meats, all carefully selected by the owners Marly and Miro Leopardi. 

After dinner, we'll experience Rio by night at Riothe  Scenarium. Located in a former antique shop, local band music creates a lively atmosphere. You can mingle, dance, enjoy delicious local food, and sip one of the best caipirinhas in town.

Included

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

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Imperial City

Day 4: Saturday, July 20th, 2024

We'll head out to Petropolis after breakfast. Located 60 kilometers from Rio, the Petropolis is known as the Imperial City. The buildings and delightful streets tell of Brazilian history. 

The tour starts with a visit to the Imperial Museum, the summer residence of Dom Pedro II. Next, we are off to the stunning Neo-Gothic Cathedral, where Princess Isabel was buried, right next to the tombstone of Dom Pedro II and his wife. 

We'll pause for lunch at Cervejaria Bohemia, the first brewery in Brazil. It was founded by the German Henrique Kremer in 1853, producing the first pilsner beer in Brazil. 

Then, we'll visit the Crystal Palace, built in France and installed in Brazil. 

In the late afternoon, we'll head back to our hotel. After a busy day, dinner is at your leisure.

Included

Breakfast

Lunch

Not Included

Dinner

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Rio de Janeiro-Foz do Iguacu

Day 5: Sunday, July 21st, 2024

Today we'll fly to another part of Brazil. It's a world away from Rio De Janeiro. 

Your guide will be waiting when you touch down in Foz do Iguacu and will take you straight to your accommodation, the Hotel Belmond das Cataratas. The hotel is in the southern part of Foz do Iguacu, in the middle of the national park and right in front of the waterfalls.

Relax, explore, or spend time in the spa. The afternoon is yours to enjoy.

Tonight, dinner is at Ipe Restaurant. You're about to try a Gaucho-style BBQ of meat, fish, and vegetables.

Included

Breakfast

Dinner

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Foz do Iguaçu

Day 6: Monday, July 22nd, 2024

After a breakfast of native delights, we'll drive to the Iguacu National Park. The plan is to walk along the well-developed panorama path, stopping to take pictures or to let the impressive natural spectacle take effect. We'll learn loads of interesting facts about the immense waterfalls and the local flora and fauna. At the end of the path, a footbridge takes you very close to the water. 

A visit to the Tropicana Bird Park will complete the visit to the Brazilian side of the falls. Birds are kept humanely in huge aviaries, and you'll see parrots and toucans in their native subtropical environment. 

We'll dine at Sabores da Floresta Restaurant in the park, connecting with nature through a special meal using hyper-local ingredients from the restaurant gardens. 

After a day of exploration, enjoy dinner on your own or order room service and rest well.

Included

Breakfast

Lunch

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Waterfalls in Foz do Iguaçu

Day 7: Tuesday, July 23rd, 2024

We'll go with our guide to the Argentinean side to marvel at the natural spectacle of the waterfalls from all angles. We'll arrange the best hike depending on how much the group wants to walk. The view into the Devil's Throat shouldn't be missed. 

There will be an optional boat tour below the waterfalls. 

We'll lunch on regional cuisine at Aqva Restaurant

After a long day in the fresh air, it's time to rest and relax. We'll have our farewell dinner at Itaipu Restaurant. Here, we'll dine on signature Brazilian dishes and celebrate our time together, reconnecting with nature, learning Brazilian history, and making new friends.

Included

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Not Included

Boat Tour

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Departure Day

Day 8: Wednesday, July 24th, 2024

Today is the last day of our trip, so we'll bid "adeus" to our new friends. 

After breakfast, you'll head for the airport and your flights back home.

If you are continuing for the Amazonian extension, you still have plenty to look forward to.

Included

Breakfast

Airport transfer

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Manaus

Extension Day 1: Wednesday, July 24th, 2024

Welcome to Manaus in the heart of the Amazon!

Upon arrival, you'll head to the Hotel Juma Opera. You can relax for the rest of the day and adjust to the weather or explore the historic center of Manaus. 

Tonight we will meet at the hotel's Opera Resturante for divine gastronomy.

Included

Domestic Flights

Dinner

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Manaus

Extension Day 2: Thursday, July 25th, 2024

Today, we have a city tour, including the Manaus old town. Here, you'll learn about the history and religion of the Manaus and Amazon inhabitants. You'll also visit famous buildings and monuments, like the Opera House, the Rio Negro Palace, and the City Market. 

Lunch is at the hip restaurant, Caxiri, to feast on Brazilian food. Specialties include fish and grilled meat. 

The afternoon is yours to spend as you please. This is a good time to catch up on your shopping before we head to the river.

We'll have dinner as a group at Banzeiro, enjoying the distinctive tastes of Amazonia.

Included

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

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From Manaus into the Wild

Extension Day 3: Friday, July 26th, 2024

In the morning, we start our journey into the Amazon Rainforest. 

On the way to the lodge, you'll see the famous “Meeting of the Waters,” where the differently colored Rio Negro and Rio Solimoes meet to become the Rio Amazonas. If you're lucky, you'll also spot pink dolphins and giant water lilies. 

The journey to the lodge takes about three hours and is quite diversified due to land and water transportation. You'll arrive at the lodge by boat. The friendly staff will receive you with a welcome drink. Your first jungle adventure is scheduled for the afternoon. 

Led by your guide, you will paddle a canoe through small creeks (igarapés) and flooded forest areas (igapós) for your first close encounter with the mighty Amazon rainforest. During this trip, it is also possible to swim in the river. With some luck, you'll encounter a pink dolphin swimming next to your canoe, a monkey family playing in the trees, or a sloth hanging from a branch. 

Dinner is at the lodge's restaurant before you head out on a night excursion to spot caimans and discover the Amazon's diverse nocturnal life.

Included

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

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Jungle Hike and Piranha Fishing

Extension Day 4: Saturday, July 27th, 2024

You'll start the day early, before breakfast, to witness the spectacular Amazon sunrise to the sound of the awaking rainforest. This is also an excellent time for bird-watching.

After a delicious breakfast, including lots of tropical fruits, another excursion awaits you. During an easy hike through the forest, your guide will explain interesting facts about local plants and their use as medicine and food, reveal some jungle survival techniques, and try to spot the local wildlife. Look out for howler monkeys, a tapir, or colorful macaws.

Lunch is at the lodge's restaurant. Later, we'll go fishing for piranhas - another great opportunity to spot wildlife on the riverbank. If you're successful, the chef will prepare the catch of the day for you. 

In the evening, one of the local guides will give a lecture about the customs and traditions of the Amazon people. Dinner is at the lodge.

Included

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

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Life in the Amazon

Extension Day 5: Sunday, July 28th, 2024

After breakfast, we'll begin another nature hike to explore the surrounding area and discover more about the Amazon's flora and fauna.

The guides will prepare a picnic lunch over an open fire in the jungle. Then, you can relax and nap in a hammock. 

We'll visit a local community in the afternoon to learn about the life of the "Caboclo Ribeirinhos," aka the river bank people, and the importance of cassava flour for the economy of this region. 

As tonight is our last night, we'll return to the lodge in time for dinner. We'll have drinks under the stars and toast our new friends and incredible adventures.

Included

Breakfast

Picnic Lunch

Dinner

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Amazon River

Extension Day 6: Monday, July 29th, 2024

After breakfast, we'll transfer back to Manaus. We've built a stop at a river to see the enormous pirarucu or arapaima fish, which can reach up to 9.8 feet (3 meters) and 440 lbs (200 kg) in size. 

We'll get you to your Manaus hotel or the airport by noon. Our concierge can assist you with your transport back home.

Included

Breakfast

You'll Be Staying Here

Hotel Miramar by Windsor

Hotel Miramar by Windsor

Situated across the street from Copacabana beach, Hotel Miramar by Windsor will be your home while we are in Rio. Spend much-deserved downtime at the rooftop pool or on the beach.

Hotel Das Cataratas

Hotel Das Cataratas

Situated in the national park near the falls, the Belmond Hotel das Cataratas will exceed your expectations of jungle chic. 

Juma Opera

Juma Opera

Located in the heart of Manaus, Juma Opera Hotel overlooks the Amazonas Opera house. 

Juma Amazon Lodge

Juma Amazon Lodge

Juma Amazon Lodge will take your breath away! Overlooking the river, you can see majestic flora and fauna from your room.

Optional Trip Extensions

Amazon Trip Extension

Amazon Trip Extension

Join us for a week in the Amazon featuring colorful wildlife, unique cuisine, kayaking and so much more!

FROM$5,275.00/pp

Natural and cultural centers of Brazil

Vibrant Brazil

Rio de Janeiro is the cultural hub of Brazil. Here, you'll experience the beaches and the jumping nightlife that makes Rio famous. Petropolis will round out the cultural experience before we head out into the wild. The waterfalls and lush landscape of Foz do Iguacu will be just the change you need. We'll take nature hikes and learn about the different landscapes in the national forest.

Vibrant Brazil

What's Included

What's Included

Everything specifiied in the itinerary

All meals (except where indicated), including beer & wine with dinner

Accommodations at unique, 4-star or better hotels

All transportation during the trip (except where indicated)

Expert Guides and Trip Leaders

A small group experience

Domestic flights

International Flight

Additional wine, beer, and/or spirits beyond what’s offered at meals

All personal souvenirs

Travel Insurance (required)

FAQs

You should fly into the airport near Rio De Janeiro, International Airport Galeão.

The trip officially starts on July 17th, but if you are traveling across an ocean to get to Rio, consider arriving a day early so you have time to relax. If you do decide to arrive early, please let us know, and we will take care of booking your room and ensure that you are kept in the same room as you will be in when the trip starts.

We will have a zoom call about 6 weeks before the trip starts to discuss all that information and give you a packing list. Here is a great website that we love that will help you with packing and travel trips. Don't forget your bathing suit since there will be pools at all the hotels and you'll be kayaking on the river.

Our trip starts with temperatures around 77°F in Rio De Janeiro (with lows of 60°F at night). Daytime highs are hotter (though still reasonable), and the nights could be considerably cooler. 

The Amazon River will be warmer than Rio De Janeiro. The highs will be high 80s. There is always a chance of rain along the river.

The closest airport to the end of the trip is Foz Do Iguacu Airport. You can either fly back to other international airports or back to Rio De Janeiro.

Inquire about this trip

Samba & Sunsets: Discovering Brazil's Charms

Brazil· July 17 - 24 2024· 7 nights

COMING SOON