21-day journey through captivating Brazil

Along the lush coast, spectacular nature and the cultural heart of Brazil

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Discover the many faces of Brazil

You can’t experience Brazil in just one trip. It’s a country of incredible contrasts, where buzzing cities, tropical islands, colonial towns and vast wilderness come together. During this journey, you’ll discover some of Brazil’s most captivating sides, from the iconic beaches and lively neighbourhoods of Rio de Janeiro to the untouched wetlands of the Pantanal and the colourful streets of Salvador. Follow the lush coastline from Rio to charming Paraty, where colonial history and local gastronomy come together. Marvel at one of the world’s greatest natural wonders at Foz do Iguaçu, head into one of South America’s best wildlife destinations and finish your journey with the music, flavours and energy of Bahia.

Highlights

Face-to-face with wildlife in the untouched wetlands of the Pantanal
Experience the raw power of the awe-inspiring Iguaçu Falls
Taste the Afro-Brazilian flavours and dance to the rhythm of historic Salvador

About This Trip

21 days (Organized private trip)

Including unique places to stay

Starting at €4,900 per person.

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Itinerary

The itinerary

What to do Rio de Janeiro Escadaria Selarón

Copacabana Beach what to do Rio de Janeiro

Days 1–4

Rio de Janeiro

Your journey through Brazil begins in one of the world’s most iconic cities: Rio de Janeiro. A city where tropical beaches, lush mountains and vibrant culture come together in spectacular fashion. Rio isn’t a city you can discover in a day. Stroll along the famous beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema, sip fresh coconut water with a view of the sea and explore the many different sides of the city. From the colourful Selarón Steps and atmospheric Santa Teresa to the lively streets of Lapa, where music and dancing continue well into the night. Of course, no trip to Rio would be complete without its famous landmarks. Admire the iconic Christ the Redeemer and take the cable car up Sugarloaf Mountain for spectacular views across the city. But be sure to seek out the quieter corners of Rio too. Mirante Dona Marta offers one of the city’s most beautiful viewpoints, with Christ the Redeemer, the beaches and mountains all coming together in one unforgettable panorama.

Days 5–7

Ilha Grande

After the energy of Rio de Janeiro, leave the city behind and continue to Ilha Grande, a tropical island just off the coast of Rio de Janeiro. As soon as you set foot on the island, you’ll notice that the pace slows down. Cars are not allowed here, sandy paths replace roads and the sounds of the jungle provide the soundtrack to your stay. Ilha Grande is a paradise for nature lovers. Much of the island is covered by protected Atlantic rainforest, creating an impressive landscape of lush mountains, hidden beaches and crystal-clear waters. From the atmospheric village of Vila do Abraão, you can explore the island’s most beautiful spots on foot or by boat. Set off on one of the scenic jungle trails to secluded beaches such as Praia de Lopes Mendes, often considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Brazil.

Travel Tips for Brazil: Paraty, a Long-Distance Travel Destination by Travander

Days 8–10

Paraty

Continue along Brazil’s lush Costa Verde to Paraty, one of the country’s most atmospheric historic towns. As soon as you wander into the pedestrianised centre, it feels like stepping back in time, with cobbled streets, colourful colonial houses and charming squares filled with character. Paraty was once an important port during Brazil’s gold trade, and its rich history is still visible throughout the town. Wander through the historic centre without a plan, browse the small boutiques and soak up the laid-back atmosphere that makes Paraty so special. The surrounding landscape is just as impressive. From Paraty, you can experience the perfect combination of jungle, mountains and sea, with boat trips to hidden beaches, scenic hiking trails and waterfalls tucked away in the lush countryside. And be sure to try the local cachaça. The region around Paraty is known for this traditional Brazilian sugarcane spirit, and visiting a local distillery is a great way to discover more about Brazil’s culture and gastronomy.

Day 11–12

Foz do Iguaçu

From Paraty, travel back towards Rio de Janeiro, where you’ll catch a domestic flight to Foz do Iguaçu in southern Brazil. In a matter of hours, the landscape changes completely, taking you from the tropical coast to one of South America’s most spectacular natural areas. Here, you’ll discover the famous Iguaçu Falls, one of the world’s great natural wonders. Hundreds of waterfalls thunder across almost three kilometres, surrounded by lush rainforest. The sheer power of the water, the roar and the clouds of mist create an experience you won’t soon forget. Visit both the Brazilian and Argentine sides of the falls for two completely different perspectives. From the Brazilian side, you’ll enjoy sweeping panoramic views, while on the Argentine side, a network of walkways takes you closer to the action and deep into the national park. Beyond the waterfalls, there’s plenty more to discover. Explore the surrounding rainforest or set off on an adventurous boat trip that brings you incredibly close to the thundering water.

Days 13–16

Pantanal

From Foz do Iguaçu, take a domestic flight to Cuiabá, the gateway to the Pantanal. Vast wetlands, winding rivers and endless plains come together here to create one of the world’s most unique natural environments. The Pantanal is the largest tropical wetland on Earth and perhaps the best place in Brazil for spotting wildlife. During your stay, you’ll sleep in a charming lodge surrounded by nature and head out each day with experienced local guides. By boat, jeep or on foot, you’ll explore a world filled with remarkable wildlife. With a little luck, you might spot caimans along the river, colourful birds soaring above the wetlands, monkeys in the trees and perhaps even one of the region’s most elusive residents: the jaguar. But the Pantanal is about more than wildlife. It’s also about slowing down and experiencing the rhythm of nature. Watch spectacular sunsets, enjoy local meals at the lodge and take in the untouched landscapes that never seem to get old.

salvador da bahía brazil most beautiful places

Days 17–21

Salvador

After the spectacular landscapes of the Pantanal, fly on to Salvador, the colourful capital of Bahia. Here, you’ll discover a completely different side of Brazil: a city shaped by music, history, religion and gastronomy. The historic centre of Salvador, Pelourinho, is one of Brazil’s best-preserved historic districts and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander through narrow streets lined with colourful façades, impressive churches and atmospheric squares, and discover the fascinating history of this remarkable place. Pelourinho was once the administrative and economic heart of Portuguese colonial Brazil, while also bearing the strong influence of African culture that makes Bahia so unique today. Salvador is also the perfect place to delve deeper into Brazilian cuisine. Taste typical Bahian dishes such as acarajé, moqueca and vatapá, and experience the rich African influences that shine through in the flavours and traditional cooking techniques.

Beautiful stays

Rio de Janeiro

Ritz Copacabana Hotel

Raise a glass of fresh caipirinha at the rooftop bar as the sun slowly sets over Rio’s skyline. Ritz Copacabana is a stylish boutique hotel with a refreshing rooftop pool, just steps from the world-famous sands of Copacabana Beach.

Ilha Grande

Toca do Mar

Set right on the azure sea and surrounded by lush tropical greenery, Toca do Mar is the ultimate island escape. Step straight from the jetty onto a boat or simply unwind to the soothing sound of the waves gently lapping against the shore.

Paraty

Pousada Bartholomeu

Step straight into the cobbled streets of historic Paraty. Pousada Bartholomeu combines authentic colonial charm with a warm, intimate atmosphere. After a day of culture and beach adventures, it’s the perfect place to slow down and unwind.

Foz do Iguaçu

Che Hermano Suites

Feel right at home after an unforgettable day at the famous Iguaçu Falls. Che Hermano Suítes is a cozy, small-scale retreat with spacious, modern suites and a lovely garden with a swimming pool.

Pantanal

Aymara Lodge

Get up close to caimans, giant otters and colourful tropical birds. Aymara is a charming base in one of Brazil’s richest wildlife destinations. Head out with experienced guides and unwind by the pool after a day of adventure.

Salvador

Hotel Villa Bahia

Two 17th-century townhouses filled with antique details await you in the colourful heart of Pelourinho. After a day exploring the historic streets, cool off in the pool or head to the rooftop terrace to take in the beautiful views.

Practical information

Travelling through a vast country like Brazil should feel relaxed and effortless. That’s why we take care of everything from start to finish: all flights, transfers and characterful places to stay are arranged in advance. All you have to do is pack your bags and let yourself be swept away by everything you discover along the way.

Included

International round-trip flights, including carry-on and checked baggage
All domestic flights and local transfers
All stays include breakfast
Guided excursions and meals during your stay in the Pantanal (excluding the jaguar safari)
Personalized digital travel guide with insider tips

Arrange it yourself

Jaguar safari at Aymara Lodge
Lunches, dinners, and other meals
Optional excursions and admission fees not included in the program
Travel and Cancellation Insurance

The best time for this journey through Brazil is generally from May to October. During these months, temperatures are pleasant, rainfall is lower and conditions are ideal for exploring cities, natural areas and the Pantanal. This is also the best period for wildlife spotting in the Pantanal, when you have the greatest chance of encountering some of the region’s most remarkable animals.

July and August are particularly special if you choose to extend your journey to Lençóis Maranhenses. During these months, the lagoons nestled between the spectacular sand dunes are filled with crystal-clear blue water.

The Brazilian summer months from December to March can also be a good time to travel, particularly for Rio de Janeiro and the coast. Keep in mind that temperatures and humidity are higher, with a greater chance of rain showers. Around Carnival, usually in February or March, Rio offers a unique experience, although it’s also one of the busiest and most expensive times to visit.

We have personally selected the accommodations included in our travel packages. Thanks to our own trips to Brazil, we have extensive experience and knowledge of the local hotels, which is why we can wholeheartedly recommend these accommodations for your tour of Brazil.

All overnight stays include a delicious daily breakfast, so you can start each day off right. The starting price for this sample itinerary is based on two people sharing a standard double room (room upgrades or extended stays are available upon request).

Our trips are tailor-made and subject to availability at the time of booking. If one of the suggested accommodations is fully booked for your travel dates, we’ll of course find an equally comfortable and characterful alternative. Any local tourist taxes or parking fees are paid directly at the accommodation.

When is the best time to take this tour?

The best time for this trip is from May through October. During these months, there is less rain, temperatures are pleasant, and conditions in the Pantanal are ideal for wildlife viewing. Are you traveling in July or August? If so, you might want to consider extending your trip to include the spectacular water lagoons of Lençóis Maranhenses.

How do I get from one destination to another during the trip?

This trip involves a combination of different modes of transportation. Due to the long distances in Brazil, you’ll take domestic flights (such as to Foz do Iguaçu, Cuiabá, and Salvador). We’ll arrange a rental car for the trip between Rio de Janeiro, Ilha Grande, and Paraty. Cars aren’t allowed on Ilha Grande itself, so you’ll get around there on foot or by boat. For the other parts of the trip, we’ll organize transfers.

How demanding is this tour?

The trip is of moderate intensity in terms of the number of destinations you’ll visit over the course of three weeks. Once you’re there, you decide for yourself how fast-paced your trip will be, allowing you to make it more relaxed or more intense. There’s plenty of time for relaxation everywhere!

Will I visit both the Brazilian and Argentine sides of the Iguazu Falls?

Please note that you will be staying on the Brazilian side and that a local excursion is not (yet) included. We definitely recommend visiting both sides, and if you’d like, we’d be happy to arrange this tour for you. Both sides offer a unique experience.

Can I customize or extend this tour?

Absolutely! The itinerary can be customized entirely to your liking. For example, you can extend your trip with relaxing days at the beach in the charming coastal towns of Arraial d’Ajda or Trancoso in Bahia, or take a trip to Lençóis Maranhenses during the right season. And besides, it’s always an option to stay longer or shorter at any given destination.

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Your Dream Trip, Worry-Free

A trip that truly suits you starts with listening to your wishes and travel dreams. Together, we’ll map out your ideal route, filled with special places and memorable experiences. We’ll take care of all the practical details, from flights to excursions. Sounds good, right?

Travander is affiliated with Personal Touch Travel, a member of ANVR and SGR.

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