Classic Brazil

Cross the Brazilian Border and start the tour in Foz de Iguazú National Park, one of the largest nature reserves in Brazil. Take a leisurely stroll along the path on the Brazilian side of the falls for panoramic frontal views of San Martin Island and the imposing Bozzeti, Two Sisters, San Martin and the Three Musketeers waterfalls, located on the other side of the border. The path leads to the viewing platform with an astonishing view of Devil’s Throat, the most impressive fall. Permanent rainbows above the falls add an aura of magic and beauty to this wonderful landscape.

Entrance fee to National Park included. Lunch not included. Return to hotel.

Parque das Aves comprises 16.5 hectares of lush Atlantic Rainforest, home to thousands of birds from hundreds of species from all four corners of Brazil and other parts of the world, many of them endangered. Immerse into aviaries to feel the beat of wings from vibrant macaws or look up-close into the eyes of a toucan. There is plenty to feel and enjoy from the work of this institution to preserve the region’s fauna and flora, caring for birds no longer in condition to live in their natural habitat, and providing an environment where they can survive.

Rio de Janeiro is a city blessed with beautiful views, impressive mountains, and lush Atlantic rainforest. The highlight of this tour is a visit to Rio de Janeiro’s iconic monument, the statue of Christ the Redeemer, on top of Corcovado Mountain (2,300 feet above sea level). Drive through the residential neighborhood of Laranjeiras and quaint Cosme Velho, lined with lovely 19th-century mansions, to the Corcovado train station. Board a cogwheel train for a 15-minute ride through the Tijuca Forest National Park, the largest urban forest in the world with more than 8,000 acres of Atlantic rainforest in the heart of Rio de Janeiro. At the hilltop enjoy 360º views of the city of Rio de Janeiro. The return itinerary leads through the Rebouças Tunnel and along the Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon, a heart-shaped body of water lined with luxury apartment buildings and gracious mansions, set against the backdrop of the Tijuca Forest. Return to the hotel.

Lunch is not included.

Tour duration: 4 hours.

The Carioca skyline soars 1,300 feet above the city. Here is the Sugar Loaf Mountain, where you will be taken on this tour. Starting at the hotel, you will drive along famous beaches, such as Leblon, Ipanema, Copacabana, and Leme, reaching Praia Vermelha or Red Beach, in the Urca district. There, a cable car ascent is made in two stages toward the top of the Sugar Loaf Mountain. It will take you three minutes to reach the first stage, the Urca mountain, where the gardens and sightseeing view will invite you to enjoy this midway stop before proceeding to the peak. Arriving at it, the crescent of the Atlantic Ocean beaches comes fully into view and you will be amazed and certain of the city’s beauty. The return trip will be through Flamengo Park and there will also be a stop at the famous New Cathedral downtown. Return to the hotel.

Tour duration: 4 hours.