Essentials of Brazil
12 days / 11 nights
Río de Janeiro · Iguazu Falls · Salvador de Bahía
RE-BRA-01
Itinerary
Day 1 - Arrival in Rio de Janeiro
Welcome to Brazil!
Arrival at the international airport. Meet and greet, followed by a transfer to the hotel. Check-in. Free time to rest and get a first feel for the "Marvelous City," Rio de Janeiro. We recommend a stroll along the seafront promenade at Copacabana or Ipanema Beach.
Overnight in Rio de Janeiro; breakfast included at the selected accommodation.
Day 2 - Rio de Janeiro: Corcovado and Sugarloaf Mountain
Breakfast. Excursion to Christ the Redeemer and ascent to Corcovado Mountain, including the train ticket and a guided city tour. From Christ the Redeemer, we welcome you to Guanabara Bay, one of Brazil’s most iconic landmarks.
We will continue with a panoramic tour through Lapa and the famous Selarón Steps, the Metropolitan Cathedral, the Sambadrome and Maracanã Stadium, the heart of Rio de Janeiro’s sporting and Carnival culture. Lunch included.
In the afternoon, visit to Sugarloaf Mountain by cable car. Located in Urca, a historic and predominantly residential neighborhood with privileged views over Guanabara Bay. The cable car ride to the summit is divided into two stages: the first takes you from the boarding station to Morro da Urca, and the second from Morro da Urca to the top of Sugarloaf Mountain. From here, you can enjoy one of the most spectacular panoramic views of Rio de Janeiro.
At the end of the tour, enjoy panoramic views of Rio’s beautiful beaches. Return to the hotel.
Overnight in Rio de Janeiro, with breakfast included at the selected accommodation.
Day 3 - Rio de Janeiro: Tijuca Forest with Saint Teresa by Jeep
Breakfast. Experience a different side of Rio de Janeiro, where culture, nature and authenticity come together on an unforgettable Jeep tour!
The Rio de Janeiro Colours Tour invites you to discover two of the city’s most charming settings: the picturesque Santa Teresa neighbourhood and the lush Tijuca Rainforest. In Santa Teresa, Rio reveals its artistic and bohemian side, with historic streets, elegant mansions and a unique atmosphere. In the Tijuca Rainforest, nature takes centre stage, with lush landscapes, waterfalls, viewpoints and panoramic views over the city.
The tour takes place in an open-air Jeep, offering a more immersive experience and a chance to connect with the authentic Carioca spirit. Perfect for those who want to experience Rio beyond its iconic landmarks, combining culture, nature and breathtaking scenery in a single tour.
Free afternoon to enjoy Rio de Janeiro at your own pace.
Overnight in Rio de Janeiro, with breakfast included at the selected accommodation.
OPTIONAL EVENING: Samba School Rehearsal Tour at the Salgueiro Samba School headquarters, or Roxy Show By Night with dinner – Copacabana Package.
Day 4 - Rio de Janeiro: Botanical Garden and Parque Lage
Breakfast. Visit to Parque Lage, a charming urban oasis in the heart of Rio de Janeiro that blends natural beauty with historic architecture. Situated at the foot of Corcovado, the park is renowned for its stunning neoclassical mansion—home to the School of Visual Arts and a rich cultural program—as well as the beautiful gardens surrounding it.
The tour continues to the Botanical Garden, a peaceful haven featuring impressive collections of native and exotic plants, greenhouses housing rare species, and lovely lakes. Strolling through the well-tended grounds offers a chance to connect with nature and relax amidst the lush vegetation. Lunch at leisure. Free afternoon to enjoy Rio at your own pace.
Overnight in Rio de Janeiro, with breakfast included at the selected accommodation.
OPTIONAL: Bike tour with a Rio-style sunset.
Day 5 - Rio de Janeiro to Foz do Iguaçu
Breakfast. Transfer to the airport to board the flight to Foz do Iguaçu.
Arrival at the paradise of the Falls and transfer to the hotel. Afternoon at leisure to rest.
Overnight in Foz do Iguaçu, with breakfast included at the selected accommodation.
12 days / 11 nights
RE-BRA-01
The final price is based on your travel dates, availability, number of travellers, accommodation category and selected services. We’ll prepare a personalised proposal tailored to your preferences, with no obligation.
To confirm the booking, a 30% down payment is required at the time of booking, with the remaining 70% due no later than 15 days before the trip's start date.
If you are interested in this tour, click "Book" and we will begin arranging your adventure in Brazil.
Essentials of Brazil
Day 6 - Foz do Iguaçu - Argentine Falls
Breakfast. Full-day excursion to the Argentinean side of the falls.
Departure to discover the Argentinean side of Iguazu National Park. Access to the trails is by the famous Jungle Train, which provides access to the different circuits. You will walk along a series of footbridges offering spectacular views of the waterfalls from above. The longest trail leads to an impressive viewpoint overlooking the Devil’s Throat, the largest of the falls, stretching approximately 150 metres across. Stop for lunch (not included) in Puerto Iguazú, followed by a visit to the city centre. After the visit, return to the hotel.
Overnight in Foz do Iguaçu, with breakfast included at the selected accommodation.
OPTIONAL: Visit to the Three Borders Landmark, with a cultural show featuring traditional dances from Brazil, Argentina and Paraguay.
Day 7 - Foz do Iguaçu – Brazilian Falls and Bird Park
Breakfast. Visit to the Brazilian side of the falls.
Iguazu National Park is home to one of the world’s largest protected areas of subtropical rainforest.After exploring the waterfalls, visit to Parque das Aves, an internationally recognised conservation centre dedicated to protecting a wide variety of bird species, including parrots and toucans, set amidst the lush Atlantic Forest. With four immersive aviaries, you can observe the birds of the Atlantic Forest up close. Discover the Black-fronted Piping Guan and the Alagoas Curassow, admire the impressive toucan and its enormous beak, and watch a flock of almost 100 macaws flying overhead. After the visit, transfer to the hotel and free evening.
Overnight in Foz do Iguaçu, with breakfast included at the selected accommodation.
OPTIONAL: Macuco Safari, an exciting boat ride that takes you very close to the waterfalls for a truly immersive experience.
On this 12-day journey, you will discover the true essence of Brazil, combining iconic landmarks, nature, and culture. Experience everything from the unique energy of Rio de Janeiro to the majesty of Iguazu Falls, taking in the historical legacy of Salvador and the tranquility of the beaches at Praia do Forte. It is an itinerary designed to offer an authentic, contrast-filled experience—perfect for your first visit to Brazil.
Day 1 to 5 Rio de Janeiro
Day 5 to 8 Iguazu Falls
Day 8 to 12 Salvador de Bahía
Day 8 - Foz do Iguaçu to Salvador de Bahía
Breakfast. Transfer to the airport to board the flight to Salvador.
Arrival in Salvador—Brazil's first capital—and transfer to the hotel. Free time. We recommend a walk along the Farol da Barra seafront.
Overnight in Salvador, with breakfast included at the selected accommodation.
Day 9 - Historic Salvador de Bahia
Breakfast. Historic city tour.
In the morning, you will explore the beautiful and vibrant Historic Center of Salvador. You will walk through the streets of the Pelourinho, with its lovely churches, museums, and colonial houses. Visit the Lacerda Elevator and the Mercado Modelo to discover Bahian handicrafts. Buffet lunch in the Historic Center. Afternoon at leisure.
Overnight in Salvador, with breakfast included at the selected accommodation.
Day 10 - Salvador de Bahia and Its Beaches
Breakfast. A free day to enjoy the beaches of Salvador.
The beaches of Salvador de Bahía offer spectacular settings to suit every taste. You can relax at the beautiful Praia do Farol da Barra, famous for its crystal-clear waters and stunning sunsets by the historic lighthouse. For those who enjoy long walks by the sea, Praia de Stella Maris offers a vast stretch of sand and waves that are ideal for surfing. Nearby, Praia do Flamengo combines nature, tranquility, and excellent oceanfront dining options. Then there is Praia de Itapuã and its lighthouse.
Overnight in Salvador, with breakfast included at the selected accommodation.
Day 11 - Salvador de Bahia and Praia do Forte Tour
Breakfast. A tour to Praia do Forte is a must-visit in Bahia.
With its crystal-clear waters, natural reef pools, and vast golden-sand beaches, this paradise offers the perfect setting to relax and connect with nature. Beyond its stunning scenery, Praia do Forte stands out for its unique charm, featuring lively streets, cozy restaurants, and an atmosphere that invites you to take life at a leisurely pace. It is also home to the renowned Projeto Tamar, where you can see the important work being done to protect sea turtles up close.
Overnight in Salvador, with breakfast included at the selected accommodation.
Day 12 - Departure of Salvador
Breakfast. Free time depending on flight schedule.
Transfer to the airport for the return journey home.
End of our services
11 hotel nights with breakfast included
Tours in Rio de Janeiro: Corcovado and Sugarloaf Mountain (tickets included), panoramic tour of Rio's city center, Jeep tour of Tijuca Forest and Santa Teresa, and Botanical Garden with Parque Lage (tickets not included)
1 meal in Rio de Janeiro (on the first day of sightseeing)
Tours in Foz de Iguaçu: Argentine Falls and Brazilian Falls (entrance tickets included)
Tour in Salvador: Historic City Tour and day trip to Praia do Forte
1 buffet-style meal in Salvador (after the visit to the Historic Center)
Private arrival and departure transfers at each destination (airport/hotel/airport)
Tour guide for excursions
Travel insurance
Support throughout the trip
SERVICES NOT INCLUDED
International flights (You choose the departure airport and travel times to suit your schedule, and we handle the booking)
Domestic flights (We assist you throughout the booking process
Admission tickets to paid attractions not listed as included in the itinerary
Optional tours
Tips for drivers or guides
Cancellation insurance
Personal expenses
Any service not listed as included in the itinerary
WHEN TO TRAVEL
May to September: the best combination
Rio de Janeiro: pleasant temperatures (20–28°C), less rain, and clearer skies for enjoying landmarks like Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf Mountain.
Iguazu Falls: cooler, more comfortable weather for exploring the trails of Iguaçu National Park and Iguazú National Park.
Salvador and Praia do Forte: warm temperatures year-round (24–30°C), but with less rainfall than between April and July.
SERVICES INCLUDED
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
PERSONALISED QUOTE
This itinerary is a recommended suggestion designed to inspire your trip; it can be adjusted based on weather conditions, tour availability, or your personal preferences, allowing you to rearrange days, add new locations, or extend your stay so that the experience fully suits your pace and needs.
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