Brazil's Coastal Gems: Rio de Janeiro, Foz do Iguaçu, Natal & Praia de Pipa - 15 Days

You'll see Copacabana Beach with the silhouette of Two Brothers Mountain. Take in the picturesque views of Guanabara Bay, Niterói, and Rio's central neighborhoods under the watchful eye of the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue. After descending Sugarloaf Mountain by cable car, head to Rio's historic Old Town. You'll discover the city's captivating colonial architecture here and visit churches such as the Candelária. Stroll through the charming, cobbled streets, admiring the vibrant colors that contrast sharply with Ipanema's sun-soaked, whitewashed streets.

This afternoon, you'll discover the vibrant and colorful world of Carnival in Rio. Meet your guide in the hotel lobby for a trip to Cidade do Samba (Samba City), where the various Samba schools create their choreography in preparation for Carnival. Your guide will introduce you to the Pimpolhos project, a social initiative that empowers the community through dance, production, music, and arts education. Learn the history of samba music, dance, and Carnival parades as you explore the workshops and warehouses of Samba City.

You'll have a chance to try on costumes and learn a few percussion and samba moves to embrace the Carnival spirit fully. Your hard work on the dance floor will be rewarded with a refreshing welcome caipirinha.

Next, you'll stop for an hour-long hike that promises to be a feast for the senses. You'll spot wildlife, including sloths, monkeys, birds, and vibrant butterflies. Witness panoramic views of iconic Rio landmarks such as Copacabana, Ipanema, and the shimmering Guanabara Bay from Vista Chinesa, also known as the Chinese View. From there, you'll head to the crystal-clear cascades of Cachoeira dos Macacos. Enjoy the sight of the glistening water cascading amid lush greenery. You'll also pass by the waterfalls of Cascatinha before finishing your hike.

Your trip through Petropolis, one of Brazil's most historic towns, begins with a scenic 37-mile (60 km) drive from Rio. Nestled in the mountains, this charming town is steeped in Brazilian history, dating back to 1830, when Pedro II purchased it as a summer retreat for his daughter. The town's European influence is evident in the beautiful German-style architecture you'll witness. Visit the Royal Palace, now a museum housing an extensive collection of royal furniture and personal items belonging to the Brazilian royal family.

Next, visit the town's Gothic Cathedral, the final resting place for several prominent figures in Brazilian history. The day concludes with free time to discover the city with its mountainous backdrop. You'll have ample opportunities to capture memorable photos, purchase gifts, or relax and reflect on the rich history you've experienced.

Today your guide will be waiting to take you on a scenic one-hour drive to the Pedra Branca State Park entrance. This is where you'll embark on a 2.2-mile (3.5 km) moderate hike up to the Pedra do Telégrafo hilltop. Along the way, your guide will share intriguing facts about the region's natural history and ecosystem. You can stop at some of the many scenic lookouts dotting the trail as you climb. Catch sight of the majestic mountains of Pedra Branca State Park and, in the distance, the Tijuca National Park.

At the halfway point, you'll reach the Pedra do Telégrafo viewpoint. Finally, at the top, you'll enjoy the stunning landscapes of Morro de Guaratiba before descending and returning to your hotel for some free time. 

Embark on a four-hour educational adventure to Itaipu Dam, the world's largest operational hydroelectric power plant near Foz do Iguaçu. Your knowledgeable local guide will provide insights into this architectural marvel, its environmental impact, the history of its construction, and its significance for the people of Paraguay and Brazil. This informative excursion is perfect for those interested in engineering, sustainability, and modern infrastructure. Your tour begins at the Visitor Center, where you'll watch a 10-minute video recounting the fascinating history of the dam's construction.

Following the video, hop aboard a bus for an engaging guided tour around the reservoir's perimeter, with three stops to admire the panoramic views. Stand at the dam's edge for a dizzying perspective on this massive structure and feel the power of the water rushing below. As you continue the route, you'll explore the lush natural surroundings and scenery within the Itaipu Touristic Complex. Marvel at the lush vegetation and keep an eye out for local wildlife as you traverse the area.

You'll better appreciate the delicate balance between engineering and nature while learning about the environmental measures to protect this vital ecosystem. The final highlight of your tour is the captivating view of Itaipu Lake, a serene and picturesque sight to conclude your excursion. Afterward, a bus will take you back to your hotel. From there, you'll be transferred to the airport to catch a flight to Natal, where you'll stay for two nights.

Experience a thrilling buggy ride along the beaches of Natal this morning. This exciting journey will take you through some of Brazil's most spectacular coastal landscapes, offering a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Your journey begins as you meet your experienced buggy driver and guide, who'll ensure your safety and comfort throughout the ride. Once settled, you'll set off on a thrilling journey along the coast, taking in the breathtaking beauty of Natal's diverse beaches.

Feel the wind blow through your hair and the sun warm your skin as the buggy zips along the soft sand, offering unparalleled views of the sparkling ocean and lush surrounding vegetation. As you ride along, your guide will share fascinating stories and insights about the local landscape, history, and culture, making this an educational and engaging experience. Along the way, you'll stop at some of the area's most picturesque and lesser-known beaches, offering a unique opportunity to explore hidden gems and take in fantastic panoramas.

You'll also visit charming local villages and interact with the friendly residents. As your exhilarating buggy ride comes to an end, you'll head back to your starting point, with a new appreciation for the natural beauty and vibrant culture of Natal. 

Embark on an exciting and scenic adventure along the Rota das Falésias, the gateway to Pipa via the southern coast. The excursion involves cycling along the rugged cliffs, passing through sandy beaches, and discovering the local history and wildlife. Your journey begins by cycling along the Falésias, a rocky terrain with patches of sand that offer an enjoyable ride. Feel the constant breeze and bask in the bright sunshine as you pedal through this windswept landscape. If the tides are low, you can cycle along the hard sand of Minas Beach, a 10-mile (6 km) stretch of deserted coastline.

Minas Beach is a primary nesting site for sea turtles, managed by the Tamar Project. Stop for a refreshing swim in the natural pools and take a dip in the Rio Catú, immersing yourself in the pristine environment. Take a moment to appreciate the beauty and serenity of this secluded area and learn about the efforts to protect its precious marine life.

After 10 miles (6 km) of cycling, you'll reach the charming village of Sibaúma, inhabited by fishing communities. The town is comprised of the descendants of enslaved people who sought refuge in the region during the slavery era. As you explore Sibaúma, engage with the locals and learn about their fascinating culture. Discover the traditions passed down through generations and gain a deeper understanding of the struggles and triumphs that have shaped this vibrant community.