Best of Brazil: City Culture, Remote Beaches & Active Adventures - 21 Days

Highlights

• See Rio de Janeiro from a different view with a helicopter ride across the city
• Take a wild 4WD ride to the shifting dunes of Lençóis Maranhenses National Park
• Enjoy plenty of relaxed beach time as well as boat tours to tropical islands
• Say hello to curious capuchins while boating along the Rio Preguiças Circuit
• Participate in a captivating performance by Salvador's renowned percussion band

Brief Itinerary

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Rio de Janeiro, Explore

Welcome to Brazil! Your flight lands in Rio de Janeiro, or "Cidade Maravilhosa" (Marvelous City), a bustling metropolis known for its beaches, festive culture, and lively entertainment. Your driver will collect you from the airport and transfer you to your hotel, after which your afternoon is your own.

If you want to stretch your legs after the long flight, visit Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas, a gorgeous lagoon along the waterfront. Surrounded by lush greenery and bordered by upscale neighborhoods, the lake is a popular recreation spot for both locals and visitors. Stroll along the scenic paths, rent bikes, and cruise along the waterway, or rent a kitschy plastic swan-shaped paddle boat and set sail! The lagoon area features parks, playgrounds, and open spaces, making it an ideal spot to get active.

For beach time, check out world-famous Copacabana or Ipanema beaches. Copacabana, which stretches for 2.5 miles (4 km) along the southern coast, is lively, with plenty of amenities and many restaurants and bars. Ipanema is also quite popular, though less crowded than Copa. If you prefer something quieter, stroll through the Parque Lage, which has lakes, a castle tower, artificial caves, and many walking paths. Tonight, have dinner at a local restaurant, then relax at your hotel.

Day 2: Full-Day City Highlights Tour

Today's guided tour covers some of Rio's most celebrated landmarks. Meet your guide in the morning and head to the top of Mount Corcovado, home to Christ the Redeemer, a 98-foot (30 m) Art Deco statue of Jesus Christ overlooking the city. Commissioned by a local Catholic group in 1920, it was built to symbolize the welcoming spirit of Brazil. The statue took almost 10 years to complete, and it remains an iconic symbol of Brazil and Rio. Arrive at the summit of the 2,310-foot (704 m) Corcovado and the base of the statue, taking in panoramic views of the city and Guanabara Bay. 

Continue to the Metropolitan Cathedral, also called the Cathedral of St. Sebastian, unusual in that its architecture is based on Maya pyramids. Stop by the colorful Selaron staircase, built by Chilean artist Jorge Selaron and a great spot for photos, then head to the Urca neighborhood and the mouth of Guanabara Bay, where you'll hop on a cable car to Pão de Açúcar (Sugarloaf Mountain). This nearly 1,300-foot (396 m) peak unsurprisingly gets its name because it resembles a mound of sugar. At the top, you'll get a 360-degree view of the rainforest, beaches, and cityscape.

Make your way back down the mountain and to Maracanã stadium, the heart and soul of Brazilian soccer fans everywhere. Learn about the history of Brazilian fútbol, soaking in the echoes of historic matches and the vibrant energy of passionate fans as you marvel at the grandeur of an arena that has hosted World Cup finals and is a huge part of soccer history. Finish the day with a stroll by the Sambadrome, built specifically to host parades during Rio's annual Carnaval.

Day 3: Helicopter Over Rio, Tijuca Forest & Botanical Garden 

Get ready to take to the skies on a thrilling helicopter ride across the city! Meet your driver at your hotel and make your way to the helipad, where you'll greet your experienced, certified pilot and take off. See sites such as Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf Mountain, and the historic Fortaleza de Santa Cruz from a different perspective as you soar overhead, as well as the lagoons and beaches of Barra and São Conrado and the coast of Avenida Niemeyer. This 30-minute tour showcases Rio in a completely different way, and you'll have the opportunity for some amazing photos. 

This afternoon, get a dose of nature with a tour of Tijuca, Rio's urban rainforest. This immersive experience takes you deep into the forest, where you can discover the area's diverse flora and fauna. Several species of small animals call the park home, including squirrels, monkeys, porcupines, foxes, and armadillos. You're also likely to see some of the hundreds of different butterflies, birds, and reptiles that inhabit the area.

Continue to Jardim Botânico, a botanical garden that serves as a serene oasis within the city and is considered a living museum of botany. Explore the collection of over 7,000 species of tropical plants, bromeliads, orchids, and native Brazilian plants as your guide shares information about the history behind the different collections. Return to your hotel in time to seek out dinner or take a sunset stroll. 

Day 4: Full-Day Islands of Rio Boat Tour

See the islands around Rio, departing in the morning on a Saveiro schooner, a traditional island boat. Your destination is Itacuruçá, a town that sits on an island in the municipality of Mangarativa. Your scenic tour takes you across Sepetiba Bay and past the many scenic tropical islands dotting the surrounding ocean, with a chance to stop for a dip. You're also quite likely to see curious dolphins swimming near the boat, as well as turtles and stingrays. 

Arrive on the island in time for lunch, then take a walk around town, discovering the small shops and historic buildings. Swim in the bay or sunbathe on the gorgeous white sand beaches, then return to the schooner for transport back to Rio in the late afternoon. 

Day 5: Hiking Excursion to Pedra do Telégrafo 

This morning's adventure begins with a scenic drive to the entrance of the Pedra Branca State Park, a drive of about an hour and 15 minutes. Upon arrival, you and your expert guide will embark on a 2.2-mile (3.5 km) moderate hike up the Pedra do Telégrafo hilltop. As you ascend, your guide will share intriguing facts about the region's natural history and ecosystem, and you'll have time to pause and take in the many scenic lookouts along the trail—each offers its own special view of the landscape, with glimpses of Praia do Perigoso, Praia do Meio, and Grumari beaches. 

About halfway up, you'll reach the famous Pedra do Telégrafo viewpoint. Here, you can take a daring photo of the large, pointed stone that gives the illusion of hanging off a dramatic cliffside. Fear not, however, as this is actually an optical illusion—the ground is just a few feet below! This spot is one of the area's most popular attractions, and your guide will help you capture the perfect photo to remember this exhilarating experience.

Hike to the top, keeping your eyes peeled for wildlife and taking advantage of some truly amazing photo ops, then take time at the summit to enjoy the breathtaking surroundings and tranquility. Make your way down to the base, then drive back to the city for the evening. 

Day 6: Transfer to Búzios, Explore Beaches & the Orla Bardot Promenade

Your next destination is Búzios, a resort area just east of Rio de Janeiro with more than 20 magnificent beaches, crystal clear waters, and tropical vegetation. Your driver will collect you from your hotel in the morning for the scenic three-hour drive, and after you've checked in at your hotel, the rest of your day is free to see some of the sights around town.

If you're looking for a bite to eat, walk along the Rua das Pedras, a pedestrian route with plenty of shops and restaurants. Or, stroll the Orla Bardot promenade, a lovely oceanside walkway with excellent views of the sea and several statues created by sculptor Christina Motta, including likenesses of Brigitte Bardot and former Brazilian president Juscelino Kubitschek. You can also spend time on one of the many beaches here or enjoy downtime at your hotel. 

Day 7: Full-Day Boat Tour of Arraial do Cabo 

Today, you'll visit Arraial do Cabo, known for its white-sand beaches, offshore shipwreck dive sites, and mysterious caves. Depart from your hotel in the morning and head to the pier, where you'll hop onboard your boat and say hello to your captain.

Cruise across the turquoise waters, stopping to tour through the Gruta Azul (Blue Grotto), a cave with unusual rock formations and blue-hued water, and Pedra do Macaco (Monkey Rock), which, just as the name says, resembles a sitting monkey! End at Cabo Frio, where you'll find expansive dune-like beaches and clear waters. Have lunch, then return to Búzios in the late afternoon. 

Day 8: Return to Rio de Janeiro, Boteco Nightlife Fun

It's back to Rio today as you check out of your hotel and meet your driver for the three-hour drive. Arrive in the city and get settled at your hotel; then, if you'd like, enjoy an evening out with a biotech (casual-style bar) tour. Originally small general stores that served the community, the boteco has evolved into the backbone of Brazil's nightlife, ranging from tiny hole-in-the-wall establishments to expansive spaces with live music. 

Meet your guide and head to the lively Lapa neighborhood. Here, you'll visit several of the area's most authentic botecos, sip on a variety of Brazilian cocktails alongside live music, and embrace the joyful spirit of the Carioca (people local to Rio de Janeiro) culture. Delve into the rich history and culture of Rio as your guide explains the origins of the botecos, the stories behind the music, and the significance of the various cocktails on what is sure to be a memorable evening.

Day 9: Fly to Barreirinhas, Free Time

The next part of your travels takes you to Barreirinhas, gateway to Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, a protected 43-mile (70 km) stretch along Brazil's north Atlantic coast, known for its vast deserts and lush seasonal lagoons. After hotel checkout, take a private transfer to the airport for your flight. Arrive and meet your driver, who will transport you to your hotel. 

Located on the banks of the Preguicas River, this quiet town is the perfect place to unwind. You can spend the afternoon exploring local beaches, such as Cabure or Barro Vermelho, or stroll around town and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Have dinner at a traditional restaurant, then get a good night's rest before the adventure continues tomorrow.

Day 10: 4WD Tour of Lençóis Dunes & Lagoa Azul

Start your immersion into Lençóis Maranhenses National Park's incredible natural wonders with an exciting 4WD dune excursion. Connect with your driver at the hotel and depart, taking a ferry across the Preguicas River and traveling along off-road routes that traverse loose sandy trails and small rivers. Arrive at the Lagoa Azul circuit and continue on foot, stopping for a refreshing swim at one of the many lakes and lagoons. 

Continue to the village of Mata Fome, where you'll have lunch at a local restaurant, then hop back in the vehicle and drive another hour or so. Arrive at the dunes and take some time to hike around or climb a ladder installed here that takes you to one of the park's highest points—another great place for photos! Spend the rest of the afternoon swimming and relaxing at the lagoons before returning to your hotel just after sunset. 

Day 11: Boat Tour of the Preguiças River Circuit 

Today's adventure takes you out on the water as you depart with your guides to the Beira River, where you'll hop onboard a speedboat to tour the Rio Preguiças Circuit, an environmentally protected area that showcases the region's diverse landscapes. Travel past tall palm trees, juçara (açai berry), or carnaúba, as well as high and leafy mangroves, and visit communities located in the Pequenos Lençois area.

Stop at Vassouras and say hello to the many capuchin monkeys that live there, as well as Mandacaru, where you'll have a chance to visit the Preguiças Lighthouse. At 114 feet (35 m) high, the lighthouse offers excellent views of the Grandes Lençóis, Preguiças River, and Pequenos Lençóis.

The tour ends at Caburé, a pleasant spot on a peninsula between the Atlantic Ocean and the Preguiças River. You can rest on shore or swim, and there are several nice restaurants for lunch. After spending some time here, return to Barreirinhas, where the rest of your evening is free.

Day 12: Transfer to Parnaíba, Cruise the Parnaiba Delta 

Say goodbye to Barreirinhas and meet your driver for your transfer to Parnaiba, a coastal community in the state of Piauí. The drive takes about three hours, and upon arrival, you'll have time to get checked in at your hotel and regroup a bit before taking a private boat tour of the Parnaiba Delta. 

A driver will meet you and take you to the port, where you'll board your boat and head out. Nestled between the two states of Piauí and Maranhao, the Delta do Parnaíba is the only river in the two Americas to flow into the open sea and the third largest oceanic delta on the planet (after the Nile and the Mekong). 

Explore a veritable labyrinth of rivers and canals, passing multiple river islands, mangroves with bare roots, and thousands of palm trees. The river is also home to wildlife such as iguanas, monkeys, and the occasional caiman. Be sure to look up as you go, as the sky is often interrupted by the flight of tropical birds—kingfishers, orange-billed caracas, and green budgerigars, to name a few! Return to shore in the late afternoon and relax or explore more on your own. 

Day 13: Transfer to Jericoacoara via Jeri's Beaches & Dunes

Depart via a 4WD vehicle this morning for the three-hour drive to Jericoacoara, a beach town on the edge of Jericoacoara National Park. Your journey takes you along the pristine beaches of the extreme west of Ceará, passing through the fishing village of Camocim. Make a stop in Tatajuba, a beach area with vast sand dunes and swimmable lagoons, where you can take a dip and have lunch, then continue to Jericoacoara, where you'll get settled at your hotel for the evening. 

Day 14: Buggy Tour Through Eastern Jericoacoara

Get to know the coast of Ceará in a fun and exciting way as you meet your guides for a buggy tour of the dunes. You'll be picked up at your hotel and drive into Jericoacoara National Park, passing through a small forest called the Green Tunnel. Continue to Praia do Preá, a popular kitesurfing beach with incredibly clear waters, and cross the Caiçara Blue Hole, formed by seasonal heavy rains.

Depending on your preferences, visit either Buraco Azul or Lagun Beach, spend some time swimming and sunbathing at the beach, then head to Lagoa do Paraíso for lunch and to lounge in hammocks that sit directly on the water. End the day at Lagoa do Amâncio, freshwater lagoons with blue-green waters that form during the region's rainy season. Here, you can spend more time in the water, play in the dunes, and take more photos before returning to your hotel.

Day 15: Fly to Salvador, Free Afternoon in the City

You're off to Salvador, the capital of the northernmost state of Bahia. The city is one of the oldest in Brazil and is known for its tropical beaches, historic Portuguese architecture, and Baroque colonial churches. Check out of your hotel and take your private transfer to the airport for your flight, then arrive and meet your driver for transport to your Salvador hotel.

After check-in, step out and see some of the city. There are several museums worth visiting, such as the Museum of Modern Art of Bahia, which features exhibits on conservation, restoration, and museology, or the Palace of Arts, dedicated to the works of French sculptor Auguste Rodin. You can also visit some of the many shops and boutiques around the city, which offer one-of-a-kind handicrafts and souvenirs, or make your way to the Bay of All Saints to watch the boats come in and out. Tonight, check out some of Salvador's always-popular live music venues or enjoy dinner out.

Day 16: Salvador Sightseeing Tour

Discover more of Salvador with a morning historical tour. Meet your guide and start in the Barra neighborhood. You'll visit the Fort of Santo Antonio da Barra, constructed during the time of the Portuguese Empire to protect the entrance to the bay, and the Farol da Barra lighthouse, home to the Nautical Museum of Bahia, where you can see their collection of various historic items collected from submerged vessels. 

Continue to the Pelourinho district, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest existing collections of 17th and 18th-century colonial architecture in Latin America. Wander the streets and alleys of the city's Upper Town, making stops at the Jorge Amado House and Foundation, dedicated to the art and life of Brazilian writer Jorge Amado, and the Church of São Francisco, where you can take in its rich Baroque architecture. Finish at the Lacerda, a 236-foot (72 m) elevator, which has panoramic views of the Bay of All Saints, and ride down to Lower Town, the city's coastal area.

You can also consider a city tour that focuses on Salvadoran culture. Alongside your guide, you'll head to the Itapagipan peninsula, stopping at the Senhor do Bonfim church, a reference point of the Bahian faith and its importance to the people who live here. Visit the fishermen of Ribeira, where you can see various types of seafood and fish harvested from the bay, and spend time in a local favela (community) to learn about daily life. See the fort of Monte Serrar for a great view of the bay, then finish at a Salvadoran market, watching vendors hawk their wares and sampling local fruits and vegetables. 

Day 17: Day Trip to Praia Do Forte & Guarajuba Beach

Take a day trip to Praia do Forte, a Brazilian beach located in the district of the same name. You'll meet your guide early, driving along the famed Camino del Coco route and its beautiful coconut palms. Cross Avenida Oceánica, stopping at a few beaches along the way, and arrive at the Abaeté Lagoon, where you can stroll around the water. 

Arrive at Praia do Forte, one of northern Bahia's most popular destinations. There are more than 7 miles (12 km) of beaches, natural reef pools, and shady palm trees. You can also stroll through the village, shop for handicrafts, and, if you like, visit the TAMAR Project, an organization dedicated to the preservation and study of sea turtles.

Next up is Guarajuba Beach, a well-developed coastal complex with pristine beaches and serene waters. You'll have more beach time here, and if you're hungry, you can also visit a local restaurant for a traditional Bahian lunch. Return to Salvador late in the day, just in time to catch the sunset across the bay. 

Day 18: Catamaran to Morro de São Paulo, Sunset at Fort of Tapirandu

This morning, you'll catch a catamaran from Salvador to Tinharé Island and Morro de São Paulo, a small, car-free village known for its surf-friendly beaches, historic sites, and relaxed vibe. Check in at your accommodations and have lunch at a nearby restaurant, take a walk through town, or indulge in a spa treatment at your hotel before taking a sunset tour to Fortaleza de Tapirandu.

This historic monument, also known as the Forte de Morro de São Paulo, was built in the 17th century to protect against Dutch invasions. You'll walk through the fort with your guide, learning about its significance and hearing local stories and legends. Stroll along the adjacent pier and take in the sunset views, and if you're lucky, you may even see dolphins swimming by. Return to town and join Morro de São Paulo's lively nightlife scene, or get some rest at your hotel. 

Day 19: Kayak or Paddleboard Excursion to Ilha do Caitá

Take to the ocean with a visit to Morro's lesser-known Ilha do Caitá, a small island off the coast of Terceira Praia (Third Beach). You'll have the option to travel by kayak or standup paddleboard or even swim if you feel comfortable, journeying through crystal-clear waters packed with diverse marine life, including tropical fish, rays, and sea turtles. On the island, don water shoes to protect your feet from slippery reefs and sea urchins, and rent snorkel gear for an even closer look at the incredible underwater life. Head back to the mainland as the sun drops. 

Day 20: Catamaran to Salvador, Explore Salvador's Botecos

After hotel checkout today, meet your driver and take a catamaran back to Salvador. You'll have free time to get comfortable in your hotel or catch some sights you might have missed earlier. Then, this evening, see what Salvador's really all about with a night out in the town.

Visit Rio Vermelho, a buzzy district affectionately referred to by locals as Bairro Bohemia or the bohemian quarter. The district underwent a major urban refurbishment recently, bringing renewed energy to this traditional and much-loved neighborhood. The area is home to many bars, restaurants, and the famed Brazilian botecos, a key part of the district's charm.

Of course, drinks are always accompanied by the all-important petiscos (snacks), complemented by lively banter and conversation. The neighborhood is also home to three of the city's most famous and treasured baianas de acarajé selling the best of Bahian street food. Music completes the bairro's attractions with many bars providing local live music, ranging from traditional to contemporary. 

Day 21: Olodum Brazilian Music Experience, Depart

If you have time before your departure, enjoy a last lesson in Brazilian culture with a captivating performance by Salvador's renowned percussion band, Olodum. Taking place at Largo da Tieta, the group performs throughout the year with infectious beats and an energetic atmosphere. If you'd like a more hands-on experience, you can also try music percussion classes or workshops for beginners and learn the rhythms that pulse through the heart of Bahian and Brazilian culture.

Afterward, it's time to say farewell to beautiful Brazil. Your driver will collect you and transfer you to the airport for your flight at the appointed time. Safe travels home or to your next destination!

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