Brazil: Rainforests to Rio

Arrive in Iguazu Falls, where you are met and transferred to your hotel, the only one located within the Brazilian National Park. Explore the Brazilian side of the falls, walking a winding trail through the tropical rainforest. Join your Tour Director and travelling companions for a welcome dinner this evening.

After a morning at leisure, explore the Argentinian side of Iguazu Falls. Board a train shuttle to Cataratas Station, and from there walk paths that lead along and above the spectacular 275 cascades. See beautiful flowers, ferns, tropical plants, butterflies and exotic birds on your way to the train that takes you to Devil’s Throat. Continue onto a catwalk that extends 1,200 yards over the lush tropical basin of Devil’s Gorge.

This afternoon, fly to Rio de Janeiro. On arrival, you are taken to your hotel, located in front of famous Copacabana Beach. Later, enjoy dinner at cozy, stylish La Fiducia Restaurant.

Travel to the heights of Corcovado (“Hunchback”) Mountain for a spectacular glimpse of the city. Crowning Corcovado at 2,400 feet above sea level is the majestic statue of Christ the Redeemer. Rio is literally sliced down the middle by the impressive Tijuca Mountains, making it possible to go to the beach in the morning and enjoy the chill of the rainforest, natural pools and waterfalls in the afternoon. Embark on an excursion through the rainforest in open-air Jeeps along the Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas lagoon and past the Jardim Botânico, finally stopping at the Vista Chinesa in Tijuca National Park for wonderful views. See the park’s Mayrink Chapel, boasting beautiful murals. From there you can hike one of the many trails and admire the rich variety of fauna and flora.

Visit Santa Teresa, a picturesque neighborhood that still retains its colonial ambience. Nicknamed “Montmartre Carioca” after the famous district of Paris, it is known for the large number of artists who live here. After lunch, learn the steps of the samba and how to move to the rhythm. During the “beat out,” try Brazilian cachaca, a popular liquor similar to rum. Afterward, ascend Sugarloaf Mountain, another iconic feature of the Rio skyline. Take the glass-sided cable car to the top to enjoy a cocktail at sunset.

Board a flight to Brasília, a creation of mid-century politicians and architects designed to draw Brazilians away from their much-loved coastal cities. From above, Brasília looks like a jet plane with a central avenue of government buildings intersected by a boomerang of residential streets; its “fuselage” is lined with spectacular — and controversial — modern architecture. On an introductory tour, view Oscar Niemeyer’s gleaming architectural masterpieces, several of which grace the city. Niemeyer, a native of Brazil who lived to be 104, was one of the key figures in the development of modern architecture.

Fly to Manaus and embark on a tour of the city’s highlights. This afternoon, board Iberostar ‘Grand Amazon’ to begin your unforgettable cruise along the Amazon River. This evening, meet the officers and crew at the captain’s welcome party, followed by dinner and live music in the ship’s Kuarup restaurant.

Spend two days in the incredible environs of the Amazon River. Listen to the sounds of parrots and monkeys, and take in the fragrant aroma and warm, misty atmosphere of the tropical rainforest. Watch for anacondas just skimming the river surface or try fishing for piranha. As you enjoy the comfort of your floating hotel, consider going on a photo safari in the Rio Manacapuru region or a boat excursion through Igarapes and Igapos. When the ship reaches Lake Rei, try your hand at piranha fishing or birding, or just relax on the deck and watch life on the Amazon pass by. Gather tonight for a special farewell dinner.

Disembark and transfer to Manaus to board your flight home.