SOUTH & CENTRAL AMERICA TC JOURNEYS
Epic Brazil: Rio Rhythms, Roaring Falls & Bahian Soul
11 days | 2 adults
Trip highlights
- Stand in the embrace of the Christ the Redeemer statue, gazing over Rio’s world-famous cityscape.
- Marvel at the immense power of Iguazu Falls, where mighty cascades make shimmering rainbows dance in the mist.
- Lose yourself in the vibrant colours and rhythms of Salvador’s Pelourinho district, a living museum of Afro-Brazilian culture.
- Feel at one with nature as you take a refreshing dip in hidden waterfalls and shaded pools during a secret jungle trek.
- Relax on the sun-drenched sands of Praia do Forte, where turquoise waters meet pristine white beaches.
This journey through Brazil is a symphony of rhythm, nature, and history. From the infectious energy of Rio de Janeiro to the thunderous spectacle of Iguazu Falls, you’ll experience the country’s most iconic sights. Delve into the rich Afro-Brazilian heritage of Salvador before unwinding on the blissful coastline of Bahia. This is a trip designed to ignite your senses, offering a perfect blend of guided discovery and time for personal exploration.
Days 1-3: Rio de Janeiro
Your Brazilian adventure begins in Rio de Janeiro, a city of captivating contrasts. You’ll be based at the Hilton Rio de Janeiro Copacabana, perfectly positioned opposite the legendary Copacabana beach. Spend two days at your leisure, wandering Rio’s neighbourhoods, sampling its culinary delights, or simply taking in sweeping views of the crescent-shaped shoreline from your hotel’s rooftop pool.
Enjoy a day devoted to Rio’s most celebrated landmarks, with an expert guide leading the way. Travel by train through the lush Tijuca forest to the summit of Corcovado Mountain and meet the iconic Christ the Redeemer, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Pass the historic Maracanã Stadium, capture a photo on the bright Selarón Steps, and visit the Sambadrome: home to the city’s lively Carnival. End the day ascending Sugarloaf Mountain by cable car for panoramic views as the city lights twinkle below.
Days 4-5: Foz do Iguaçu
Arrive in Foz do Iguaçu and settle into the Sanma Hotel: a tranquil, ranch-inspired retreat just moments from Iguazu National Park. Spend the day uncovering the breathtaking landscapes of this remarkable region at your own pace, starting with the awe-inspiring Iguazu Falls. Feel the raw power of one of nature’s most imagination-defying marvels, then continue your adventure with an ecological jungle bus ride or a Macuco Safari Tour – an exhilarating experience that brings you to the base of the thundering cascades by boat.
On your second day, enjoy a completely different perspective with a full-day guided tour to Iguazu’s 'Secret Falls'. This experience takes you along secluded jungle trails to discover hidden waterfalls, rivers, and natural pools – perfect for a refreshing swim. Your expert guide will share insights into the region’s geology and wildlife, making this a distinctive and immersive adventure.
Days 6-8: Salvador
Welcome to Salvador, the soulful heart of Brazil’s Bahia state. Here, you’ll stay at Casa do Amarelindo, a beautifully restored colonial townhouse offering a peaceful haven in the centre of the storied Pelourinho district.
A guided tour will immerse you in the city’s fascinating history and rich cultural tapestry. Admire views of All Saints Bay from the Farol da Barra lighthouse, where the sparkling waters stretch to the horizon. Browse the bustling Mercado Modelo: an arts and crafts market housed in a striking neoclassical building, brimming with trinkets, handmade jewellery, and local curios. Stroll through the heart of Pelourinho, Salvador’s atmospheric Old Town, and feel its energy in the vividly painted, cobbled streets. Along the way, your guide will share tales of Afro-Brazilian heritage, colonial legacies, and enduring traditions, ensuring every corner resonates with colour and character.
Days 9-11: Praia do Forte
Your holiday concludes with a relaxing coastal escape to Praia do Forte, just an hour from Salvador. Here, clear waters, white sands, and gently swaying palm trees create a picture-perfect setting for unwinding.
You'll spend three nights at the Pousada Casa do Forte, a charming inn tucked amid palm-fringed gardens with an inviting pool, located just a short stroll from the beach. Spend your time in this tropical paradise basking in the sun, swimming in the warm Atlantic, and reflecting on your unforgettable Brazilian journey.
