Experience Overview
Sun, sand and plenty of samba – see some of Brazil’s hottest highlights all packed together in an eight-day adventure. Start the party in Rio de Janeiro, where Copacabana, Ipanema and Christ the Redeemer all vie for your attention. Travel to the cobbled streets of Paraty, then cruise to the pristine Ilha Grande – an island where lush green rainforests meet untouched sandy beaches. You’ll have local knowledge to guide your way and plenty of time to explore at your own pace, and when it comes to free time in Brazil, all you need to know is the word ‘praia’ – beach.
Highlights
- Let loose and samba the night away in Rio de Janeiro – South America’s party capital. Arriving in this bustling metropolis is the perfect way to start your Brazilian adventure.
- Party down with the locals in the streets of colonial Paraty, where Portugal meets Brazil, jungle meets sea and your adventure dials up a notch.
- After seeing its virgin rainforests, blue lagoons and splendid beaches, you’d never imagine that Ilha Grande had such a treacherous pirate history. This is true natural beauty, Brazilian style.
- You’ll have plenty of time to choose your own adventure at Ilha Grande with two full days on the island. So if hiking, boating, kayaking or lazing on a beach is your thing, we’ve got you covered.
- With some of Brazil's biggest icons, including Christ the Redeemer, Ipanema Beach and Sugarloaf Mountain all at your fingertips, why not consider extending your stay in colourful Rio?
Trip Details
Product Code: 1849
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Basic
Transport: Boat,Ferry,Private vehicle,Public bus,Taxi,Van
Guide Language: English
Supplier Code: GGBR
Starts: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Finishes: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Duration: 8 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical rating: Light
Includes
Meals: Breakfasts (4),Accommodation: Hotel (7 nts)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD 1116 (CAD 140 /day)
Itinerary
Bem-vindo! Welcome to Brazil. Your experience begins at 1 pm today with an optional leader-led orientation walk around Rio. In the evening, there will be an important meeting at 6 pm where you’ll talk through the details of your Brazilian adventure. Rio locals like to say that 'God made the world in six days, the seventh he devoted to Rio'. In this heaving metropolis, set against Guanabara Bay and surrounded by the slopes of Sugarloaf and Corcovado, it's hard not to be caught up in the passion of the city's residents, known as Cariocas. Known for both the glitz and glamour of Carnaval and the contrasting image of the favelas, Rio is a fascinating and diverse centre of all things colour. Tonight, after your briefing, why not keep the introductions going with an optional welcome dinner with your group.
Included Activities:
- Rio de Janeiro - Orientation Walk
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning, take a shared transfer from Rio to Paraty (approximately 4 .5 hours). The remainder of today and rest of tomorrow are yours to explore Paraty. Admire the architecture as you wander along the town’s cobbled, pedestrian-only streets, which become partly covered in seawater at high tide. You might prefer to explore the rainforest trails in the surrounding national park, which is rich in wildlife and waterfalls. Otherwise, a boat trip on the island-studded bay for scenic views along the coast could be on the cards, or join an excursion to the nearby village of Trindade, which boasts some of Brazil’s best beaches. The best thing is you get to decide.
Optional Activities:
- Paraty - Boat trip (220 BRL)
- Paraty - Trindade excursion (120 BRL)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 2)
Today, jump on a shared transfer to Angra followed by a ferry to the island getaway of Ilha Grande, taking approximately 5 hours, in total. This paradise of pristine beaches and rainforest has been largely untouched by development. Previously a pirate's lair, a leper colony and a prison for violent criminals, the island has a fascinating history to uncover. The ruins of the prison can still be seen today. Once you’ve arrived and got your bearings, head to the beach – it’s calling your name.
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Rise and shine in paradise, ready to enjoy two full free days exploring Ilha Grande. Wander along rainforest trails to beautiful and remote beaches – Lopes Mendes and Aventureiro Beach are two of the best. You could book yourself in on an optional boat trip out to the Blue Lagoon, beach-hopping through Ilha Grande Bay along the way. There are plenty of opportunities to stop for fresh seafood, and to swim and snorkel in the clear water. Or just plonk yourself on the beach with a good book and laze the day away. In the evening, why not meet up with some of your travel pals and relax with a caipirinha at a restaurant or bar in Vila do Abraao – the island’s main town.
Optional Activities:
- Ilha Grande - Boat trip to the Blue Lagoon (220 BRL)
- Hike to Lopes Mendes beach - Free
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 2)
Bid farewell to this slice of heaven as you board a boat to the small port of Mangaratiba today, and from here, take a minivan back to Rio de Janeiro. The total journey should take about 3.5 hours, so you should be back in Rio in the early to mid-afternoon. The rest of the day is free to explore the city or simply hit up Copacabana and relax. Tonight, get together with your travel crew for a night of food, drinks and some samba – speak to your local leader who’ll have some great recommendations for what to do tonight.
Optional Activities:
- Rio de Janeiro - Sugarloaf Mountain 3 (Admission Fee) (160 BRL)
- Rio de Janeiro - Botanical Gardens admission fee (67 BRL)
- Rio de Janeiro - Santa Teresa tramcar (20 BRL)
- Rio de Janeiro - Maracana football game (schedule dependent) (400 BRL)
- Rio de Janeiro - Christ the Redeemer (entrance) (82 BRL)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
With no activities planned for today, you are free to leave the accommodation at any time, provided you comply with the hotel’s internal check-out policies. That doesn’t mean your adventure has to come to an end! If you would like to continue soaking up the sun in Rio, we’ll be happy to book additional accommodation (subject to availability).
Optional Activities:
- Rio de Janeiro - Total Rio Tour Combo 1: Santa Teresa, Corcovado, Christ & Copacobana (149 USD)
Tour Operator
Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.
In Business Since 1989
Reviews
Meagan - Traveled, December 2023
I highly recommend this trip! Our tour guide (Luma) was amazing and Brazil was incredible. The accommodations were not the best but other than that, I loved it all. Wonderful fellow passengers as well!!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/11/2023
Giambattista - Traveled, December 2023
My experience in Brazil with Intrepid was totally wonderful!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/11/2023
Renate - Traveled, December 2023
Excellent tour and lots of fun with our tourguide Luma. I loved the Samba night & Samba Rehearsal Show.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/11/2023
Susan - Traveled, November 2023
Highly recommend Best of Brazil. I was enchanted by each place we visited. The itinerary provided a good combination of culture and nature. Guilherme is an excellent guide.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/29/2023
Shaneen - Traveled, October 2023
Super satisfied with Intrepid ! Helpful and organized x will definitely travel with them again :) happy traveller right here
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/09/2023
Daniel - Traveled, October 2023
Great tour, and G was an excellent guide. One thing that could improve the tour is taking the speed boats to ilha grande instead of the ferry as you do spend quite a lot of the tour travelling from place to place
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/19/2023
Jordan - Traveled, September 2023
My tour guide Gus was super helpful and an excellent guide all round! I got to see multiple parts of Brazil in such a short space of time which was perfect for me! I would suggest booking an extra day or 2 on either end of the trip in order to see more of Rio, as you only have a short time there on this trip. But still overall a great experience.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/27/2023
Sara-Jane - Traveled, September 2023
This was a fabulous tour, with lots of amazing things packed into a very small space of time. Gus was an epic tour guide and I loved every moment of the trip.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/24/2023
Joanne - Traveled, September 2023
This short trip seemed longer due to the amount we did/saw in 8 days. A truly worthwhile taste of Brazil that has left me wanting more. Made extra special by our leader Gus who ensured a great balance of fun, food, organisation and local/cultural experiences. An excellent trip to add to another South America destination or alone with a few days in Rio added on - you need at least 3 full days to see it all.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/27/2023
Giambattista - Traveled, December 2023
My experience in Brazil with Intrepid was totally wonderful!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/11/2023
Lorenzo - Traveled, December 2023
It has been the first time I join to an Intrepid trip and was amazing. The guide was so careful and nice, the group perfectly matched. I hope I can travel with Intrepid soon!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/11/2023
Sophie - Traveled, September 2023
Best of Brazil was a great introduction to this beautiful country, and our fantastic guide Nathaly made the experience all the better - highly recommend the trip!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/14/2023
Deborah - Traveled, August 2023
I would highly recommend doing the whole 51 days is the South American tour. It was full of variety and interest. I’ve been travelling the world and have done many tours and this one comes out on top.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/10/2023
Antoine - Traveled, August 2023
Our tour guide Luma was AMAZING!!! Having all the accomodations planned and bought for me was one part but having Luma with us made all the difference. She brought us to local places to go dancing and went out with us until the late hours of the night and it made the entire experience so great, I was there alone I would've never had these experiences. Also during the trip I lost my hoodie on a boat and Luma within one phone call was able to arrange to have it brought back to our hotel. What would've normally been a nightmare before was so easily resolved. Luma is such a great person and I have no idea how much she makes but she deserves a raise!! At first I wasn't sure if paying extra for being in a group setting with a tour guide was worth it vs booking alone but it was 100% worth it. I wish I could go on an other trip in Brazil with Luma as a our tour guide!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/02/2023
Erran - Traveled, August 2023
This has to be one of the best trips I have been on and even more so with our amazing leader Luma. This trip has shown the beauty of Brazil in every aspect and I have left pining for more. For those who join this tour, you will have an unforgettable time. Enjoy every aspect of the Brazilian culture and explore every location, you won't be disappointed.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/04/2023
Allan - Traveled, April 2023
Best of Brazil by Intrepid travel- Our family had never been on a group tour before and were a bit apprehensive. Now we can't wait till our next one! We visited Rio, the colonial town of Paraty and Isla Grande island. Eight unforgettable days led by our wonderful guide Luciano.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/05/2023
Jill - Traveled, July 2023
This trip to Brazil was my first with Intrepid and it did not disappoint. Luma was an absolutely extraordinary guide, and she made sure that were well-informed about everything, be it activities, day trips, hiking routes, etc., etc. I learned so much for her and had a wonderful time. I highly recommend this trip.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/20/2023
Stefan - Traveled, July 2023
A wonderful introduction to Brazil for a first-time traveler to the country, made possible by our fantastic Intrepid leader Luma. The destinations, activities, food, culture, sights and company were all excellent. I found the itinerary to be just right – not too little or too much time at each place. Recommended!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/23/2023
Anna - Traveled, July 2023
I would recommend this trip to anyone, we got a real taste of the culture, food, music and language of Brazil from our amazing and knowledgable leader! All of our optional activities were excellent and enhanced our trip.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/21/2023
Robert - Traveled, May 2023
Excellent, well organised trip. Our tour guide Luma did a great job and was very helpful and informative. We began the tour by travelling to Paraty from Rio by coach. Very historic, quiet village. The historic streets and buildings are definitely the highlight of this place. Not the best accommodation. The next destination was the beautiful island of Illha Grande. I would recommend the optional boat tours for both places. Then it’s back to Rio for one night. Overall, this is a great trip if you want to experience the best beaches of Brazil, but there isn’t much time in Rio, so if you want to see more iconic sights of Rio, I would recommend booking a few more days there either before or after the tour.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/16/2023
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