Family-Friendly Brazil: Historic Cities, Natural Wonders & White-Sand Beaches - 14 Days

Highlights

• See Avenida Paulista and the modern architecture of the Art Museum of São Paulo
• Visit three countries at once at Foz do Iguaçu's Three Borders Landmark
• Defy gravity on the Free Jump trampoline at Jump'n Joy Fun Park
• Enjoy a green oasis and the occasional curious monkey at Jardim Botânico

Brief Itinerary

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in São Paulo, Guided tour of Avenida Paulista

Welcome to Brazil! Your flight lands in São Paulo, a bustling metropolis known for its incredible architecture and rich culture. Upon arrival, your private driver will collect your family from the airport and transport you to your hotel for check-in. Once you've had a chance to relax and regroup, start your immersion right away, embarking on a guided tour of Avenida Paulista, the city's famous 2-mile (2.8 km) long street that connects the "old city" to the "modern city" and is known as a hub for the arts.

Meet your guide and start with a visit to the Moreira Salles Institute, a glistening glass-fronted building that showcases the work of photographers from around the world. Continue along the avenue and see the modern architecture of the Art Museum of São Paulo, sure to impress older kids with its clean lines and bright colors, then make your way to Trianon Park, a green oasis that resembles an English garden.

Stop at the Gastronomic Fair, where you can try traditional Brazilian dishes, and visit the Itaú Cultural Institute's collection of Brazilian lithographs, paintings, and maps. Stroll the gardens of Casa das Rosas, which houses Brazil's first library, and end at the Japan House, which has exhibits that include fashion, robotics, and Japanese history. Tonight, have dinner at one of the city's many kid-friendly restaurants. Consider Greek-inspired Le Burger or El Tranvia, a steakhouse with an outdoor playground for the little ones. 

Day 2: Personalized Family-Focused City Tour 

Enjoy a slower-paced city tour today, focusing on the areas the kids might find most interesting. After breakfast, meet your guide and start with a walk through Beco do Batman, an area in the Vila Madalena neighborhood that is a visual treat, with colorful street art at every turn and lots of shops and vendors. After spending some time here, continue to some of the other child-friendly city sites, all curated by your guide and based on your family's individual interests. 

Budding scientists might like the Instituto Butantan, a prominent biological research center in the Butantã neighborhood. If you have any young soccer fans, you won't want to miss the Museu do Futebol (Football Museum), where you can learn about Brazil's deep ties to this worldwide sport.

Visit Parque Estadual Cândido Portinari and ride on the Ferris wheel, or stroll through the greenery of Parque do Ibirapuera, which has quiet, tree-shaded paths and lovely ponds. The tour ends at the torii gates of Liberdade, São Paulo's Japantown. This is a great family place for dinner, with options that include sushi bars, ramen shops, yakisoba noodle stands, and both Chinese and Korean restaurants. You can also hit up some of their local shops for fun souvenirs such as kimonos and other artisan goods. 

Day 3: Fly to Foz do Iguaçu, Visit Parque das Aves Bird Sanctuary

After breakfast, check out of your hotel and take a private transfer to the airport, where you'll catch a flight to your next destination, Foz do Iguaçu. Located in the state of Paraná, the city is a gateway to Iguazú Falls National Park, which spans both Argentina and Brazil. Arrive and take your private transfer to your hotel, then meet up with your guide for an avian adventure at the Parque das Aves bird sanctuary. 

This 40-acre (16 ha) reserve and research center is the largest bird park in Latin America, caring for more than 143 different species and offering five immersive aviaries. Your family will see toucans and curassows up close, visit the parakeet nursery, and let the kids experience a flock of 100 macaws flying directly over their heads! The park also has resident butterflies, caimans, anacondas, and alligators.

Tonight, delight the smallest family members with dinner at one of Foz's kid-friendly restaurants. There's Blessed Bar and Restaurant, which has a kids' play area and an exceptional menu for the adults, or Via Morello, a pasta shop with an outdoor park. You can also cater to the carnivores at Park Foz, which serves prime wagyu and angus meats, or try Jardim Panorama Rafain Chopp, where you'll find a playground with slides, tunnels, and a ball pit. 

Day 4: Guided Tour of Iguaçu Falls (Brazilian Side), Three Borders Landmark 

Spend today exploring Iguazú Falls National Park, starting with a visit to the Brazilian side of the waterfall. The tour begins at the visitor's center, where you'll board a bus into the park. Arrive and walk on the footbridges over the cliffs of the Río Iguazú, which takes you through a subtropical rainforest—make sure the kids keep their eyes peeled for wildlife, such as monkeys, toucans, or even jaguars!

After a 1.25-mile (2 km) hike, you'll reach a panoramic view encompassing nearly all of the 275 cascades that make up Iguaçu Falls. Visit the shopping area or grab a bite at the restaurant before returning to the park entrance and transferring back to your hotel.

Later, visit three countries at once at the Three Borders Landmark, otherwise known as the Triple Frontier, a tri-border area for Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay. The three countries all meet at the mouth of the Río Iguazú, with a walkway and views over the river and information on each country's proximity. Take in the views of the borders and learn about the geography and history that binds these nations, and be sure to get some photos of this unusual phenomenon. There's also a family-friendly restaurant here and a children's play area. 

Day 5: Guided Tour & Hike to Iguaçu Falls (Argentine Side)

It's time to tour the Argentine side of Iguazú Falls. Gather up the family and head to the park, where you can spend some time at the visitor's center and see their exhibits on the importance of biodiversity within the subtropical jungle. Then, board a train that takes you to the massive Devil's Throat waterfall. You'll have time to disembark and see the falls from a different view, taking in the drop of more than 260 feet (80 m) into mist-shrouded pools.

Reboard the train and head to the next station, where you and the kids will take a walking tour of about 2 miles (3 km) along wooded footpaths and walkways that bring you closer to the falls and provide a more complete view. You'll also see the distant shores of Isla San Martin (San Martin Island). After the tour, return to your accommodations and relax, or explore more of Foz do Iguaçu on your own. 

Day 6: Return Flight to São Paulo, Free Afternoon to Explore

You're back in São Paulo today, as you check out of your hotel and take a private transfer to the airport for your flight. Upon arrival, you'll check in at your hotel and then the rest of your day is free to explore under your own steam and see some of the sights you may have missed earlier.

Walk through the Centro Histórico (Historic Center), where you can visit the Catedral de São Paulo. Older kids will appreciate the neo-Gothic architecture, and the massive marble interior with its colorful stained-glass windows will intrigue the little ones. You can also see the Mosteiro de São Bento (St Benedict's Monastery) or the towering Martinelli Building, Brazil's first skyscraper. Have dinner at a local restaurant, then return to your hotel for some downtime this evening. 

Day 7: Guarulhos' Jump'n Joy Fun Park

It's all about the kids today as you visit Jump 'n Joy amusement park! Located in the Guarulhos district, this indoor park features over 20 play areas and attractions. You and your family can defy gravity on the Free Jump Trampoline, show off your hoop skills at the Basketball Springboard, or take some adrenaline-fueled spins on the Radical Giro. 

The park also includes a Ninja Circuit obstacle course, where the older kids can let off steam battling giant Q-Tips and fly on a mega sled while the whole family will enjoy the fun and refreshing foam pool. There's even a mini soccer field where you and the little ones can show off your competitive skills. Afterward, take the kids back to the hotel, where they're sure to sleep well after an action-packed day.

Day 8: Transfer to Paraty, Guided Walking Tour

Check out your São Paulo hotel this morning and meet your driver for the four-hour journey to Paraty. This beautifully preserved colonial town is located along Brazil's southeastern coast, backed by the imposing Bocaino Mountains. Arrive and settle at your hotel, then take the family on a guided walking tour.

Paraty was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2019, and the reasons why are immediately evident as your local guide accompanies you along the town's charming streets and impressive architecture. Walk the cobbled streets in the historic center, where you'll find striking, brightly-colored 17th-century buildings. For more information on the region's history, stop in at the Casa da Cultura. Paraty is also known for its gastronomy, so after your tour, check out the many local cafés and restaurants, most of which have options that will please both adults and kids.

Day 9: Morning at Trindade Beaches, Jeep tour of Serra da Bocaina National Park

Start the day with some beach time. Meet your private driver for the quick 18-mile (30 km) drive to Trinidade, a seaside collection of beaches with endless green landscapes and pristine white sands. While the sea in these areas can sometimes be rough, the shores are generally quiet and a perfect family escape. Let the kids build sand castles and look for shells, then have lunch at a nearby beach bar before returning to town. 

This afternoon, discover the jungles of Paraty with a private Jeep tour. Meet your guide at your hotel and drive deep into Serra da Bocaina National Park, passing by beautiful forest greenery and arriving at Pinga Waterfalls. Here, you'll be able to visit the local Cachaça (fermented sugar cane juice) distilleries, and the adults will have a chance to taste a few delicious aged varieties. Afterward, you'll continue along the Caminho do Ouro (Gold Path) to Toboga Falls. At this scenic waterfall, young daredevils can take a thrilling ride down its natural waterslides.

See Poço do Tarzan (Tarzan's Pit), a natural pool formed between the rocks of the falls, and Pedra Branca (White Stones) Waterfall, then end the day at Engenho D'Ouro restaurant, where the whole family can feast on regional dishes amid the sounds of the falls and surrounding jungle. Return to your hotel and rest up for tomorrow's adventures.

Day 10: Transfer to Rio de Janeiro, Self-Guided City Discovery

The final leg of your family travels takes you to Rio de Janeiro. Otherwise known as "Cidade Maravilhosa" (Marvelous City), this bustling metropolis is known for its beaches, festive culture, and lively entertainment. Your driver will collect you from your hotel in Paraty for the four-hour scenic drive and drop you off at your hotel in Rio in the afternoon. Once you've checked in, let everyone stretch their legs after the long drive with self-guided sightseeing around town.

Rio is known for its beautiful parks, and today is the perfect opportunity to see some of them. Visit Parque Lage, which has lakes, a castle tower, artificial caves, and a playground with swings and slides. There are also tons of walking paths here, and if the kids look up, they're likely to see tamarins and capuchin monkeys in the trees. You can also spend some time at Parque dos Patins, located in the Lagoa district, where you can rent bikes or even tour around on ATVs. Lago is also home to Parque Municipal Catacumba, a scenic park with sculptures and plenty of shady spots.

Later tonight, check out some of Rio's top family restaurants, where the adults can enjoy local cuisine and the kids can be entertained. There's Toca da Traíra, with its kids' play area and aquarium, or Coimbra Galeto, which has a children's gallery and bounce house. If the little ones want a familiar meal, try Fagulha Grill and Pizza for all-you-can-eat pizza, or visit Maya Café, which has sandwiches, regional dishes, and delectable desserts.

Day 11: Visit Jardim Botânico, Family Beach Fun

Slow down the pace this morning with a visit to Jardim Botânico, a botanical garden that serves as a serene oasis within the bustling city. Considered the oldest botanical garden in Brazil, it serves as an important research institute and is a UNESCO biosphere reserve. The kids can see the various gardens and stroll the shaded paths, and the whole family can learn more about the garden's diverse collections with a guided educational tour. The garden also has a play area, orchid garden, Japanese garden, and wildlife such as birds and monkeys. 

If the kids are clamoring for beach time, check out the world-famous Copacabana or Ipanema beaches. Copacabana, which stretches for 2.5 miles (4 km) along the southern coast, is a lively spot with plenty of amenities and a host of restaurants and bars. Ipanema, which is usually less crowded than Copa, is also quite popular. The waters here can be rough, so parents should be aware and not let children swim unattended. Families with smaller children might also want to visit Leblon Beach, which includes a play area, Baixo Bebê, with climbing structures and sand toys.

Day 12: Visit Christ the Redeemer, Selaron Staircase & Sugarloaf Mountain 

Today's guided tour covers some of Rio's most celebrated landmarks. First, your family will head to the top of Mount Corcovado and visit 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, and you'll be met with panoramic views of the city and Guanabara Bay.

From here, stop at the colorful Selaron staircase built by Chilean artist Jorge Selaron. The little ones can count the colored tiles or look for particular tiles while their parents take memorable souvenir photos. From here, head to the Urca neighborhood and the mouth of Guanabara Bay, where you'll hop in a cable car up to Pão de Açúcar (Sugarloaf Mountain).

This nearly 1,300-foot (396 m) mountain peak unsurprisingly gets its name because it resembles a mound of sugar. The kids will love the bird's-eye view as the car ascends, and at the top, you'll get a 360-degree view of the rainforest, beaches, cityscape, and local monuments. Spend some time at the park here, Parque Bondinho, where older kids can explore the trail around the mountain to see the landscapes from different angles.

Day 13: Discover AquaRio Aquarium

Discover Brazil's incredible underwater world with a visit to AquaRio, Rio de Janeiro's Marine Aquarium. Encompassing nearly 280,000 square feet (26,000 sq m), the aquarium is considered one of the largest in South America, with a vast collection of marine life. Families seeking a perfect amalgamation of fun and knowledge will find this destination to be an ideal choice.

Let the kids dive into the interactive displays and carefully curated activities, including multiple tanks and enclosures, a sea tunnel, and more than 350 species on display. Visit the main tank to see the larger fish or the touch tank, which allows the little ones to interact with various species. You'll all learn more about the diversity of Brazil's underwater world and gain valuable insights into marine ecosystems and the country's ongoing conservation efforts.

Day 14: Visit Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas, Depart Rio 

Make the most of your last morning in Rio with a visit to Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas, a lagoon along the waterfront. Surrounded by 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 kitsch plastic swan-shaped paddle boat and let the kids steer the way! The lagoon area features parks, playgrounds, and open spaces, making it an ideal destination for all ages.

If you haven't already, stop by Parque dos Patins, where you'll find a kids' zone with ergonomic toys and activities such as skating, bungee jumping, trampolining, and skateboarding. Or head to Parque das Figueiras, which has a playground, bike paths, and walking trails. There are also skate parks in the area, shopping, and multiple sports courts catering to volleyball, basketball, tennis, and, of course, football.

Afterward, it's time to bid farewell to Brazil. Your private driver will pick you up from your hotel and take you to the airport for your departing flight. Safe travels home or to your next destination!