Brazil & Iguazu Highlights

Welcome to the first day of our South American tour in vibrant Rio de Janeiro! If you arrive early, feel free to check in at the hotel and explore at your leisure. This evening, we'll gather with the tour leader in the hotel lobby for a short stroll to a local restaurant. Here, you’ll enjoy a delicious dinner featuring Feijoada, Brazil's beloved national dish. It's a perfect introduction to the rich culinary traditions of this dynamic country.

Today, enjoy a fully-guided tour of Rio de Janeiro. Our day begins with a tram ride to the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue, where you can take in breathtaking views of the sea, mountains, and cityscape. Afterwards, explore at your own pace and choose a spot for lunch.

We then visit the Metropolitan Cathedral of Saint Sebastian, noted for its modern design inspired by Mayan pyramids. Next, we head to the vibrant Lapa district. Here, you'll walk the renowned Selarón Steps, perfect for capturing memorable photos.

Conclude the day with a visit to Maracanã Stadium before returning to the hotel. The evening is yours to enjoy as you choose.

Today, immerse yourself in the vibrancy of Rio de Janeiro with a day at your own pace. Opt to explore independently or join the optional Rio+ excursion for essential city sights. This excursion features a cable car journey up Sugarloaf Mountain, offering breathtaking views of the city and its beaches. You'll also visit notable spots like the Kobra graffiti wall, Ipanema Beach, São Cristóvão local fair, and Samba City—the heart of the annual Rio Carnival.

Alternatively, delve into Rio's rich cultural and colonial heritage. You might consider visiting the Museum of Tomorrow, The Candelária Church, and the São Bento Monastery, each offering unique insights into the city's history and architecture.

This evening, you have the option to savour a traditional Carioca Dinner, a delightful feast with drinks at a renowned local bar.

Today, we bid farewell to Rio and journey along Brazil's verdant Costa Verde. En route, we admire dramatic seaside vistas and lush jungle landscapes. Our destination is Paraty, a charming resort town celebrated for its cobblestone streets and exquisite 17th-century architecture.

Upon arrival, we'll check into our hotel before meeting a local guide for a tour of Paraty's UNESCO World Heritage-listed historic centre. This evening, you have the freedom to explore and immerse yourself in the local ambience at your own pace.

Today is yours to explore Paraty at your leisure. For an unforgettable experience, you can opt for the Paraty Island Tour, where you'll board a schooner to visit some of the area's stunning island beaches. Alternatively, you might prefer to venture out on your own. Enjoy a hike through the steep valleys and mountains surrounding Paraty, or relax and sunbathe on the local beaches.

Don't miss the chance to appreciate the natural beauty of the Serra da Bocaina National Park, the perfect backdrop for this charming town. Immerse yourself in Paraty’s rich cultural and architectural heritage as you wander its streets.

This morning, we depart from Paraty and head towards São Paulo to catch our included flight to Foz do Iguaçu. Upon arrival, settle into our accommodation where we’ll be staying for the next four nights, offering the perfect base to explore the breathtaking natural beauty of the region.

This evening, enjoy genuine Brazilian hospitality at a local family's home. Savour a traditional BBQ dinner, accompanied by drinks, lively music, and dancing.

Today, immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes of Foz do Iguaçu. This morning, we meet our local guide to explore the magnificent Iguazu Falls, located in Brazil's Iguaçu National Park. As the world's largest waterfall system, the falls offer stunning vistas, and we will guide you to the premier viewing points or you may wander along the footpaths to the very edge of the cascades.

In the afternoon, consider joining an optional excursion to a nearby bird park and sanctuary, where you can marvel at Brazil's vibrant native birds.

Today offers the chance to engage in exciting optional excursions to explore top attractions. Begin with a trip to the Argentinean side of the falls. Here, you can embark on a cruise offering stunning views of the Salto Tres Mosqueteros (The Three Musketeers) and the famous Devil’s Throat. Please be aware that this excursion is weather-dependent and may be rescheduled if necessary; your tour leader will inform you of any changes.

In the evening, you may choose to experience the Rafain show and dinner. Immerse yourself in Latin American culture with vibrant dancing, music, and traditional cuisine.

On your second day, explore the Iguazu Falls region at your leisure. Consider a visit to the local bird park to observe a dazzling array of avian species. Alternatively, embark on a day trip to Paraguay. Cross the Paraná River and reach Ciudad del Este, where you can explore bustling markets, admire the impressive Monday Waterfalls, or visit the Itaipú Dam, the world's largest hydroelectric power plant.

Please note that this optional excursion might be rescheduled due to weather conditions; your tour leader will keep you updated.

Begin your day with breakfast in Foz do Iguaçu as our journey from Rio comes to a close. If you're interested in exploring Foz do Iguaçu further, please contact us and we can arrange additional nights at the hotel. Otherwise, depart for home with a wealth of memories from your 10 wonderful days discovering Brazil.