This small group itinerary showcases the best of Brazil, ideal for those seeking an effortless and affordable option, without sacrificing quality. Guided by local experts, you will discover both the famous highlights and hidden treasures of Rio de Janeiro, Foz do Iguacu, Manaus, the Amazon Rainforest and Salvador. From epic coastal views and cascading waterfalls, to jungle excursions and charming colonial neighborhoods, you will get a taste of it all. The rich history, colorful culture and pristine natural beauty, makes for a new adventure with every day. In a small group of other travelers, this wild journey includes experiences most only ever dream of and memories you won't ever forget!
Welcome to Brazil! Upon arrival at the Rio de Janeiro Airport, you will be greeted by a local representative and transferred directly to your hotel. Check into your room, get settled and spend the first evening of your adventure as you wish!
The inhabitants of Rio de Janeiro call it the “Marvelous City.” Located on the Bay of Guanabara, Rio has a mountainous landscape that contrasts with an intensely blue sea. Here, the skyscrapers, colonial buildings and narrow streets meld in perfect harmony. Although the city is a reflection of the social inequalities of the country, Rio de Janeiro has great style and is internationally renowned for its Christ Corcovado, Pao d’Açúcar, Ipanema and Copacabana beaches, and the warm and lively inhabitants of the city, the cariocas.
Today, you will be taken on an exploration of Rio's most famous attractions and beautiful landscapes. Your first stop will be one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World, the Christ the Redeemer statue. This iconic site will be accessed by train through the lush Tijuca Forest. Afterwards, you will continue to the Sugarloaf Mountain viewpoint. From the top, you are rewarded with a breathtaking aerial view over the city and surrounding landscape. You will soar up and down the mountain via a traditional cable railway. Following time for plenty of pictures, you will be returned to your hotel, to enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure.
On today's adventure you will learn more about the lifestyle and culture of Rio's local inhabitants, also known as, "Cariocas". Your tour begins with a walk to the nearest station, where you will board the subway for a quick 15 minute ride. Back on the streets of Rio, you will continue on foot to visit the historic and commercial center of the city. The highlights of this exploration include the Metropolitan Cathedral of São Sebastião and the Saara neighborhood. Walking through the streets with your local guide, you will will have the opportunity to truly understand the customs, commerce and joy of the Carioca people. After tasting a delicious natural juice made with tropical fruits, you will sit down for a lovely lunch at the Confeitaria Colombo, which is one of the oldest and most historic restaurants in all of Brazil. Once you have finished lunch, you will head back to the subway station for the return journey to your hotel.
Following breakfast at your hotel in Rio de Janeiro this morning, you will be transferred to the airport in good time to board your domestic flight to Foz do Iguacu. Upon arrival, you will be greeted by a local representative and driven directly to your hotel. Check into your room, get settled and spend the rest of the day enjoying the amenities on property and exploring your new surroundings.
The Iguacu River wriggles in a western direction for 600 kilometers, soaking up the waters of dozens of tributaries along the way. The river widens and flows majestically through thriving forests, before descending into the various levels of the famous Iguacu waterfalls. Foz do Iguacu is located in southern Brazil, near the border of Paraguay and Argentina. They are made up of 275 falls, some up to 80 meters high of rushing water! The 1,000 meter foot bridge on the Argentinian side will lead you to the largest of the falls, La Garganta de Diablo, the Devil's Throat. You can hike the trails on the Argentinean side or the Brazilian side, both of which offer exceptional views. There are neither words nor photographs that can properly describe the falls, you simply just have to see and hear them for yourself!
Today, you will be taken on a proper discovery of Iguacu Falls. Venture out onto the maze of traditional runways, that offer exceptional panoramic views of the Brazilian side of the falls. The total length of the runway is 1,200 meters, which features an epic panoramic perspective of the 275 waterfalls that make up Iguacu Falls. From the Brazilian side, the four most popular waterfalls are Floriano, Deodoro da Fonseca, Benjamin Constant and Salto Uniao, or Devil's Throat. After having the chance to admire the fascinating scenery from up close, you will end your tour at the panoramic elevator. The elevator will bring you back to the vehicle, for your return transfer to the hotel.
Your journey continues into Argentina today, to explore the falls from an entirely different, but equally as beautiful perspective. The Lower Circuit walking path features contact primarily with nature, while the Upper Circuit offers an overview of the various jumps and delta islands. You can also enjoy another impressive view of the Devil's Throat, from a point where you can even feel the fury of water falling!
On this Argentinian side excursion, you will have the opportunity to appreciate the combined essence of both the jungle and falls in one single ride! First, you will embark on a five kilometer drive through the picturesque wonders of Iguacu National Park, ending at the forest base, Puerto Macuco. Continue 100 meters down, to reach the dock, where your next activity awaits. On board a boat, you will be taken on a six kilometer journey towards the waterfalls. Cruising along the exciting rapids through the canyon of the Lower Iguacu River is an adventure, even in itself! Eventually, you will reach an inspiring full frontal view of the Salto San Martin, the largest approachable jump by boat. Admire this sight in absolute awe, before sailing to the dock located in front of San Martin Island. From here, you will return to the runway system via the Lower Circuit.
This morning, it will be time to pack up your things and transfer back to the Iguacu Airport in good time to board your domestic flight to Manaus. Upon arrival, you will be met by a driver and transferred directly to your overnight hotel. With such a short time to spend in this metropolitan city, you may be interested in an optional tour to visit one of the local attractions, like the Amazon Theater, the Market or the Port of Manaus. Alternatively, you may just want to enjoy a relaxing night, take a stroll through the city center on your own and get a good night's rest.
Manaus, known as the capital of the Brazilian Amazon, is the central point for all excursions into the Amazon jungle. It is an urban city that stands out in stark contrast to the rainforest. Aside from featuring a major port for ocean vessels, this bustling metropolis does offer some intriguing attractions, such as the local zoo, museums, theaters and nearby beaches. For the most part though, it is a place to stock up on any necessities before heading out into the jungle, or alternatively, a refreshing and lively atmosphere following your seclusion in the wild.
Your Amazon adventure kicks off today, as you are transferred from Manaus, along the Amazon River, to your lodge nestled in the pristine natural wonders of the Amazon Rainforest. Upon arrival, you will be welcomed with a freshly squeezed juice and shown to your room. After some time to relax and get settled, a delicious lunch will be served, followed by an afternoon of exploration. The regular program of lodge activities will start with an exciting variety of excursions. Dinner will be served back at the lodge this evening, surrounded by the calls of the wild.
The enchanting Amazon is the world's largest tropical rainforest, celebrated for its impressive biodiversity. Thousands of rivers can be seen crossing through various regions of the rainforest, including of course, the prominent and powerful Amazon. The rainforest covers the majority of northwestern Brazil, from where it expands into Colombia, Peru and other countries in South America. The most commonly known river towns with access into the rainforest are Manaus & Belem in Brazil, and Iquitos & Puerto Maldonado in Peru. No matter what part of the Amazon you experience, it's lush scenery and pristine nature never fails to impress.
During your stay, you can look forward to an assortment of different Amazon experiences at the lodge. These adventures include a visit to a riverside community, a jungle trek to discover the medicinal plants and hunting techniques of the region, piranha fishing excursions, and day and night canoe rides along the Amazon River, to observe the jungle and wildlife from the water. One last activity includes a visit to the "Encontro das Aguas", also known as the, "Meeting of Waters". At this location, the dark waters of the Rio Negro and the sandy beige waters of the Rio Solimões meet without mixing. The distinct border of the two rivers continues for several kilometers. Each of these nature explorations in the Amazon will start and end at the lodge, for your comfort and convenience. The lodge also features an on site restaurant and variety of facilities for you to enjoy between excursions.
Make the most of your exotic experience in the wild, as your activities at the lodge continue this morning. Following lunch early this afternoon, you will be transferred back to your hotel in Manaus to enjoy a relaxing day, reminiscing on your adventure in the Amazon.
This morning, you will be picked up at your hotel in Manaus and transferred to the airport in good time to board your domestic flight to Salvador. Upon arrival in Salvador, you will be greeted at the airport by a local representative and driven directly to your hotel. The rest of the day has been left free for you to enjoy as you desire.
Salvador Bahia is the cradle of the Afro-Brazilian culture and offers travelers many popular amusements, through its cuisine, music, enchantment and cheerfulness. The evident mixture of Portuguese, African and indigenous influences translate into a unique cultural fusion. You are invited to experience this for yourself through gastronomy, festivals, religions and the Salvadorian way of life. The city's historic past left behind a priceless legacy of 17th and 18th century buildings in Pelourinho, the historic downtown area of Salvador, which was declared an UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's easy to lose yourself among the cobbled alleyways and colonial buildings of this vibrant neighborhood.
This morning, you will be taken on a walking tour through the historic downtown of Salvador. Taking a stroll through the charming cobblestone streets, offers the perfect opportunity to discover the local history and understand the region's culture and art. From the impressive ancient architecture, to the friendly local people, this is a great way to get to know Salvador. Enjoy the afternoon as you wish, before this evening's excursion.
Tonight, your final adventure in Brazil awaits. From the hotel, you will be driven to the Miguel Santana Theater to watch the presentation of the Companhia de Balé Folclórico da Bahia. Located in the Pelourinho downtown district, the theater offers an intimate and personalized experience, perfect for this cultural performance. In a presentation that represents the many African traditions that have shaped Bahian culture, you will admire a variety of sacred dances and songs. These entertainments include sword dance acrobatics, martial arts and exuberant national dances. At the end of the show, you will be invited to enjoy a delicious farewell dinner, before you are taken back to your hotel.
Sadly, your journey through the classic highlights and hidden treasures of Brazil must come to an end today. However, you will be leaving with unforgettable memories, new friends and the experience of a lifetime! After checking out of your hotel in Salvador, you will be transferred to the airport in good time to board your international departure flight. We hope you had an incredible trip and we wish you safe and pleasant travels onward!
The Windsor Leme Hotel offers modern and sophisticated accommodations in the heart of Rio de Janeiro. With the highest quality standards and friendly personalized service, you are guaranteed total privacy and comfort during your stay. Not only is the hotel surrounded by many of the most famous sights in the city, but you can also enjoy a full frontal view of Leme beach, only one block from the beautiful Copacabana beach. From the picturesque panoramic terrace, you are invited to indulge in complete relaxation. Surrounded by glass walls, you can take a dip in the infinity pool, sip on a drink from the bar, or enjoy the sauna and fitness room.
Wish Resort Golf Convention Foz do Iguacu offers all of the amenities and services you could possibly wish for during your stay. The property is located only 20 minutes from the famous Iguacu Falls, on the border between Brazil, Paraguay and Argentina. When you are not busy exploring the surrounding areas, you can enjoy the endless entertainment at the resort, including several outdoor pools and Jacuzzis, fitness center, tennis court, nature trail through the grounds of the property, coffee shop, bike rental, laundry service, 24 hour room service and a lovely 18 hole golf course. The accommodations are clean, spacious and comfortable. The perfect place to return home to, following a day of fun activities.
Located in the historic center of Manaus and just a few steps from the famous Amazon Theater, you will find the lovely Hotel Villa Amazonia. This charming property boasts only 30 exclusive apartments, all of which face an enchanting indoor garden and a natural stone pool. The building's facade, reception area and restaurant preserve the design of a restored historic mansion, that dates back to the golden rubber age. The spacious guest rooms feature a modern design, and the Fitz Carraldo Bistro offers a delicious blend of international classic dishes with exotic Amazonian cuisine. A fully equipped gym can also be enjoyed, overlooking the hidden garden, a real gem in the heart of Manaus.
Juma Amazon Lodge seeks to provide a fully authentic and unique experience in an untouched region of the Amazon Rainforest. With its prime location in one of the most remote and preserved areas of the jungle, this lodge is an intimate and inviting property, harmoniously nestled into the forest environment that defines it. The lodge offers a variety of activities and excursions, which emphasize the pristine natural habitat. All activities are arranged in small groups, to allow for a more exclusive and personalized experience. Accompanied by an expert knowledgeable guide, you will be rewarded with a more meaningful interaction with the jungle.
Fera Palace Hotel is a trendy and cosmopolitan property that offers the perfect home away from home during your stay in Salvador. Between the bars, rooftop swimming pool and terrace, massage rooms, sauna and fitness area, this hotel is equipped with all you could need to enjoy a lovely and tranquil experience. The modern apartments and suites feature cozy accommodations, ideal for those seeking privacy, comfort and sophistication. The spacious rooms truly translate the spirit and identity of the Palace and Salvador.
*Pricing is based on two persons traveling together, based on availability, subject to change.
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