10
Days / 9 Nights
This Brazil itinerary pulsates with the rhythm of the country. Begin in gorgeous Rio, the “fun and samba” capital of the world, with its scenic beaches, fashionable districts and spectacular landmarks. Travel by helicopter to see the panorama of Rio, while sipping Champagne. Stand at the lofty statue of Christ the Redeemer to understand its amazing impact. Drive in a Vintage Car and lunch with famous artists while discovering the “secrets” of Rio. In Salvador (Bahia), the African and spiritual heart of Brazil, savor Mediterranean cuisine, near-perfect climate, colonial architecture and the scenic countryside. An adventure in the Pantanal completes your journey in rustic but lavish surroundings. You’ll remember the sunrise, flora and fauna, dynamic landscapes and huge variety of animals. A superb combination of experiences.
|
|
| COUNTRY | CITY | NIGHTS |
HOTEL |
| Brazil | Rio de Janeiro | 3 |
Copacabana Palace Deluxe Ocean Front Room An Orient Express Property |
| Brazil | Salvador | 3 |
Convento do Carmo Junior Suite, A Pestana Historic Hotel |
| Brazil | Northern Pantanal | 3 |
Pousada Rio Mutum Eco-Adventure Lodge – best available |
| DAY 1: Arrival in RioMorning arrival in Rio de Janeiro, the pulsating sun, fun and samba capital of South America; transfer to the historical and gorgeous Copacabana Palace Hotel, overlooking scenic Copacabana Beach, an Orient Express hotel. Rest of the day at leisure. |
| DAY 2: The City’s Landmarks and a Toast in the Sky!Drive through the fashionable Barra District to the base of Corcovado Mountain; ascend by train to the summit. Here, at 2,400 feet above the city stands one of South America’s most famous landmarks, the 125-foot statue of “Christ the Redeemer.” The panorama of the city below is testament to why Rio is considered one of the most spectacular cities in the world. After a leisurely lunch, on to Pão de Açúcar (Sugar Loaf Mountain), an iconic symbol of the city. Travel by cable car to the mountain top – the breathtaking panorama will leave you breathless. Then, board a Private Helicopter at Urca Hill for an amazing air tour around the city with its famous sights. On board, enjoy bubbling champagne for a “toast in the sky” accompanied by delicious Hors D’oeuvres. Evening at leisure – choose one of Rio’s fabulous restaurants for dinner. (B) |
| DAY 3: Secrets of Old Rio, Lunch at Favoreto's House and Bohemian Santa Teresa Explore the “secrets” of Old Rio as we drive through the city’s historical center in a Vintage Car. Visit the São Bento Monastery Praca XV, Candelaria Church, França- Brasil House, old Market Street, and the Imperial Palace. Stop at famous Confeitaria Colombo for a sampling of freshly baked pastries. For lunch, you’ll be the special guest of João Favoretto and his family in their lovely home; this internationally renowned painter is known for his creations that focus on the different forms and shapes of Brazilian flora. Then, travel along the winding cobblestone streets of the picturesque and village-like district of Santa Teresa. Once the most upscale area of the city with great views to the bay and the mountains, it still preserves beautiful architectural houses from the 18th century. Writers and artists have always been seduced by the district’s history with its architectural, gastronomic and cultural treasures – an oasis of peace and quiet just 10 minutes from the city center. (BL) |
| DAY 4: Depart Rio / Arrive Salvador, the African Heart of Brazil! Depart Rio by flight to Salvador (Bahia), the cultural and spiritual capital of the country. Once Brazil’s original colonial capital, Salvador is blessed with a near-perfect climate and unspoiled beaches. Its dance and music reflect the city’s African influence. Visit the Old Quarter of the city with its extraordinary colonial architecture; view historical relics, religious art and the Pelourinho, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Lunch is in an intimate setting – savor the best in Mediterranean cuisine with a distinctly Bahia touch! Voted as the best restaurant in Salvador, Maria Mata Mouro is famous for its local cuisine, located in a beautiful 17th-century home. Then, on to the Afro Brazilian Museum; meet some of the artists working in the Pelourinho. Overnight in a magnificent restored Convent in the Old City. (BL) |
| DAY 5: Salvador, the Mysterious Camdoble and the Capoeira Martial Art Morning drive to the Lower City and the quiet waters of the Itapagipe Peninsula where life moves at a slower pace. Men fish from dug out canoes, locals collect shellfish at low tide, schooners lie at anchor, all protected by the famous Bonfim Church, connected with the Candomblé, the local mysterious religious influence of African roots. Continue to the Monserrat district with its panoramic view of the city and then onto the city`s bustling open air market. Here, see the private “Capoeira” demonstration – ancient martial arts preformed as a dance. Lunch at Aconchego da Zuzu a popular family-run restaurant. With some luck we may meet the matriarchal Zuzu that turned 100 years old in 2007. Afterwards, discover the city’s African influence at a traditional Candomblé place of worship – ask to have your fortune read in sea shells. (BL) |
| DAY 6: Cachoeria Country Tour Leave the city behind to explore rural Brazil – the land of Sugar Cane plantations, peaceful colonial towns and busy country markets. Stop at the country market town of Santo Amaro before continuing to Cachoeira, jewel of the Bahian hinterland nestled deep in the valley of the Paraguaçu River. After lunch at a local restaurant, enjoy a walking tour of this charming town. Like Salvador, Candomblé plays an integral part in the life of the town, epitomized by the Sisterhood of the Boa Morte (Good Death), a sorority which traces its origins back to the time of slavery. We cross to the western bank of the slow moving river and visit the Danemann Cultural Center where world-class cigars are expertly rolled. This is indeed a journey back in time to the Brazil of yesteryear. Return to Salvador for overnight. (BL) |
| DAY 7: Salvador / Pantanal, the Safari of a Lifetime - and Piranha Soup! The adventure begins! Depart Salvador by flight to Cuiabá in the Northern Pantanal. Meet your Private Guide and drive in a 4x4 Vehicle up to Aricá River; board an eco-friendly fast boat for transfer to the Pousada Rio Mutum. Enroute, visit the historical town of Barão de Melgaço. Your accommodations at the lodge are rustic but lavish. Dinner tonight features typical local dishes and Piranha Soup. (BD) |
| DAY 8: Pantanal Photo and Nocturnal Safari At sunrise, a paddleboat tour offers the extraordinary experience of waking up with nature in the Pantanal, followed by breakfast, served on a floating platform in the Mutum River. Then, try horseback riding with your private guide through the dense forest to a typical farm on the shores of Siá Mariana Bay. You’ll be amazed at the variety of flora and fauna! Return to the Pousada for lunch followed by an afternoon photo safari of Rio Mutum, one of the most protected and preserved rivers of the Pantanal. Besides the wonderful landscapes, observe crystalline waters, shoal of fishes and a large variety of animals. Tonight, after dinner, depart by jeep to explore the dynamic nocturnal life of the Pantanal. (BLD) |
| DAY 9: Birdwatching, Alligator Feeding & Candle Light Dinner on your Private Boat The Pantanal region is excellent for bird watching as it is inhabited by the largest variety of birds on earth. After lunch at the Pousada, afternoon boat ride on Siá Mariana Bay. On the return, stop to enjoy the sunset and try your luck at fishing (Mar – Oct). Evening: A Private Candle Light Dinner will be served on board your boat, while sailing in the quite waters of the Siá Mariana Bay. Animal spotting by flash light completes your unforgettable evening. (BLD) |
| DAY 10: Depart Pantanal / Return Home Transfer to the airport for your home bound flight, or to your next destination in South America! (B) |
| $15,942 | Per person, double occupancy |
| Land only. Domestic air is not included. | |
| Special booking and cancellation policy applies. Please inquire. | |
