Compare Best of Brazil by Intrepid Travel vs Best of Brazil by Great Value Vacations
Compare details and see what other travelers are saying.
| Trip |
4.5 | Great
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4 | Great
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| Duration | 8 days | 8 days |
| Price From | $ 792 | $ 3,602 |
| Price Per Day | $ 99 | $ 450 |
| Highlights |
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| Trip Style | Small group tour | Self-guided tour |
| Lodging Level | Basic | Standard |
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| Travel Themes |
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| Countries Visited | ||
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| Flights & Transport | Ground transport included | Airfare included |
| Activities | N/A |
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| Meals Included | N/A | N/A |
| Description |
Sun, sand and plenty of samba – see some of Brazil’s hottest highlights all packed together in an eight-day adventure. Start the party in Rio de Janeiro, where Copacabana, Ipanema and Christ the Redeemer all vie for your attention. Travel to the cobbled streets of colonial Paraty, then cruise to the pristine Ilha Grande – an island where lush green rainforests meet untouched sandy beaches. You’ll have local knowledge to guide your way and plenty of time to explore at your own pace, and when it comes to free time in Brazil, all you need to know is the word ‘praia’ – beach. |
So you've always wanted to go to lively Rio, you've read all about the awe-inspiring Iguassu Falls, and you've dreamed of strolling the colorful streets of Salvador for years. Well, it's time to stop fantasizing! On this amazing vacation package, you'll watch your dreams come true right before your eyes. Rio, Iguassu, and Salvador all in one trip? You bet. Start your journey in the unique city of Rio de Janeiro, jam packed with vibrant culture, mountainous landscapes, and picture-perfect waterfront neighborhoods. Enjoy included tours up to Corcovado, Christ the Redeemer, and Sugar Loaf Mountain! Take a train ride through Tijuca Forest, then explore the city's bustling, artsy downtown. You'll wave goodbye to Rio and say hello to the majestic natural wonder that is Iguassu Falls. Walk along cascading paths, take tons of photos, and learn all about this amazing sight on a tour of the area! Witness views so spectacular, you thought they could only exist in movies. Last, but certainly not least, you'll take one last domestic flight to the sunny coastal city of Salvador. Its charming, pastel-colored Historic Center will make you feel like you're walking through a real-life postcard. Stroll down cobblestone streets, admire colonial architecture, and enjoy the eye-popping colors of the city. Head to the bright blue bay and catch a truly unforgettable sunset! Helpful links for travel to Brazil: |
Day 1 Rio de Janeiro
Bem-vindo! Welcome to Brazil. Your experience begins at 1 pm today with an optional leader-led orientation walk around Rio. In the evening, there will be an important meeting at 6 pm where you’ll talk through the details of your Brazilian adventure. Rio locals like to say that 'God made the world in six days, the seventh he devoted to Rio'. In this heaving metropolis, set against Guanabara Bay and surrounded by the slopes of Sugarloaf and Corcovado, it's hard not to be caught up in the passion of the city's residents, known as Cariocas. Known for both the glitz and glamour of Carnaval and the contrasting image of the favelas, Rio is a fascinating and diverse centre of all things colour. Tonight, after your briefing, why not keep the introductions going with an optional welcome dinner with your group.
Day 2-3 Paraty
This morning, take a shared transfer from Rio to Paraty (approximately 4 .5 hours). The remainder of today and rest of tomorrow are yours to explore Paraty. Admire the architecture as you wander along the town’s cobbled, pedestrian-only streets, which become partly covered in seawater at high tide. You might prefer to explore the rainforest trails in the surrounding national park, which is rich in wildlife and waterfalls. Otherwise, a boat trip on the island-studded bay for scenic views along the coast could be on the cards, or join an excursion to the nearby village of Trindade, which boasts some of Brazil’s best beaches. The best thing is you get to decide.
Day 4 Paraty – Ilha Grande
Today, jump on a shared transfer to Angra followed by a ferry to the island getaway of Ilha Grande, taking approximately 5 hours, in total. This paradise of pristine beaches and rainforest has been largely untouched by development. Previously a pirate's lair, a leper colony and a prison for violent criminals, the island has a fascinating history to uncover. The ruins of the prison can still be seen today. Once you’ve arrived and got your bearings, head to the beach – it’s calling your name.
Day 5-6 Ilha Grande
Rise and shine in paradise, ready to enjoy two full free days exploring Ilha Grande. Wander along rainforest trails to beautiful and remote beaches – Lopes Mendes and Aventureiro Beach are two of the best. You could book yourself in on an optional boat trip out to the Blue Lagoon, beach-hopping through Ilha Grande Bay along the way. There are plenty of opportunities to stop for fresh seafood, and to swim and snorkel in the clear water. Or just plonk yourself on the beach with a good book and laze the day away. In the evening, why not meet up with some of your travel pals and relax with a caipirinha at a restaurant or bar in Vila do Abraao – the island’s main town.
Day 7 Rio de Janeiro
Bid farewell to this slice of heaven as you board a boat to the small port of Mangaratiba today, and from here, take a minivan back to Rio de Janeiro. The total journey should take about 3.5 hours, so you should be back in Rio in the early to mid-afternoon. The rest of the day is free to explore the city or simply hit up Copacabana and relax. Tonight, get together with your travel crew for a night of food, drinks and some samba – speak to your local leader who’ll have some great recommendations for what to do tonight.
Day 8 Rio de Janeiro
With no activities planned for today, you are free to leave the accommodation at any time, provided you comply with the hotel’s internal check-out policies. That doesn’t mean your adventure has to come to an end! If you would like to continue soaking up the sun in Rio, we’ll be happy to book additional accommodation (subject to availability).
Day 1 Welcome to Rio de Janeiro!
Feel the lively spirit in the air as you land in culture and beauty-rich Rio de Janeiro! Upon arrival in the "Marvelous City," enjoy a convenient transfer to your first luxurious hotel. Settle in and relax, then begin exploring the city! Rio is famous for its bright blue water, pristine beaches, and mountainous landscapes. Tonight, you might want to take a walk through Leblon, an upscale, oceanfront neighborhood filled with shops, bars, and restaurants.
Day 2 Rio de Janeiro
Enjoy a pleasant Brazilian buffet breakfast, then get ready for your first full day in Rio. And what a way to start off a vacation... with a full day tour to Corcovado and Sugar Loaf Mountain! Grab your camera and embark on a journey of unbeatable natural beauty, mountainous adventure, and city sightseeing.
Day 3 Rio de Janeiro
Wake up in beautiful Rio and start your day off with an energizing breakfast. After a full day of excitement yesterday, you'll enjoy a relaxing day at leisure today. Soak up some sun on Rio's world-famous beaches, Ipanema and Copacabana! And remember, the fun doesn't stop when you step off the sand. Explore the areas, treat yourself to a delicious dinner, and experience some of the most vibrant nightlife in the world. If you have enough energy, you might want to make your way back up to Christ the Redeemer or Sugar Loaf Mountain to catch a once-in-a-lifetime sunset. When in Rio...
Day 4 Rio de Janeiro - Iguassu Falls
Refuel with some breakfast, grab your bags and meet your transfer - you're off to Iguassu Falls today! After a quick flight, you'll be brought to your next accommodation near the Brazilian side of Iguassu Falls. Located close to the point where the Iguassu River empties its waters into the Parana River, these falls are among the largest in the world! The city nestled right beside the falls, Foz do Iguassu, is a bustling city filled with tourists and locals, alike. Treat yourself to dinner, do some souvenir shopping, and explore this stunning, culture-rich area!
Day 5 Iguassu Falls
After breakfast, grab your camera and get ready for an amazing tour of Iguassu Falls! Take tons of photos, gawk at magnificent views, and walk along picturesque nature paths. Spend the evening relaxing at your hotel or strolling around the city.
Day 6 Iguassu Falls - Salvador
Wave goodbye to the majestic Falls and say hello to Salvador! Enjoy breakfast, then meet your transfer and make your way to the airport for your final domestic flight. Arrive in sunny Salvador, otherwise known as the "Land of Happiness" and check-in to your hotel. Every day feels like a celebration in Salvador, with its bright, colorful buildings and its fun, easygoing lifestyle. This fascinating city is a storybook-like world of magical beauty, cultural traditions, and warm hospitality - oh, and it's surrounded by beaches. What could be better?
Day 7 Salvador
Ahhh, wake up in stunning Salvador and enjoy a delightful breakfast. Then, spend the day your way! Feel like relaxing by the water? Head to the coast and treat yourself to a sunny seaside lunch. In the mood to walk around the Historic Center? Visit the UNESCO-recognized site of Pelourinho, a bustling hub lined with wonderfully-restored pastel-colored buildings, restaurants, shops, and bars. Whatever you decide to do, be sure to catch the sunset over Baia de Todos Santos! For the best view, pop into the Elevador Lacera, a gorgeous old art deco elevator that offers beyond perfect views. Make sure your camera's charged!
Day 8 Depart Brazil
Squeeze all your souvenirs into your bag and enjoy a comfortable transfer to the airport. Board your plane and spend your relaxing flight home dreaming about your next adventure.
