Brazil & Iguazu Highlights - Tour Rio de Janeiro to Iguazu Falls

Welcome to Rio; it's the first day of your South America trip! Check in at the hotel and take some time to explore if you arrived with time to spare. Meet up with the group in the hotel foyer this evening before taking a walk to a nearby restaurant to enjoy an authentic Brazilian welcome dinner with all-you-can-eat Feijoada! This flavourful combination of stewed meat and beans is Brazil’s national dish. Get ready for a delicious and unforgettable first night on tour!

Set out on a full-day tour of Rio de Janeiro with a local guide! First, travel via tram up to the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue! Drink in the breathtaking sea, mountain and city views from the top. Enjoy some free time to grab lunch before visiting the Metropolitan Cathedral of Saint Sebastian. This modern building features a unique modern architectural style meant to symbolise the Mayan pyramids. Then, visit the vibrant Lapa neighbourhood and walk up the colourful Selarón Steps to take some memorable pictures. Finally, see the Maracanã Stadium and where the legendary Carnival takes place as you drive back to the hotel. Tonight is free to spend as you wish.

Wave Rio goodbye as the tour continues down Brazil's Costa Verde (Green Coast). Soak up exquisite views of the ocean and surrounding jungles! Arrive in Paraty, a beautiful resort town which is known for its cobbled streets and romantic 17th-century houses. Check in at the hotel and then set off on an orientation walking tour with your tour leader which includes a visit to the UNESCO-listed historic centre! Tonight is a free evening to enjoy the local vibe in Paraty.

Settle into a free day in Paraty. There is a highly-recommended optional island tour which sets sail on a schooner boat! Enjoy lunch on board and swim in the waters of four stunning beaches surrounding Paraty. Alternatively, choose to explore solo. Head into the steep valleys or mountains that surround Paraty to do some hiking. Or, head to the beach for some time in the sun. Paraty forms part of the Serra da Bocaina National Park so natural beauty abounds! The town itself also features wonderful architecture and cultural destinations. Get ready to be mesmerised!

This morning, leave Paraty behind and travel to São Paulo. Head to the airport and hop aboard an included flight to the beautiful Brazilian city of Foz do Iguaçu! Look forward to spending the next four nights in this region which is home to one of the world’s most spectacular natural wonders. After a busy day of travelling, enjoy an included, authentic, all-you-can-eat Brazilian BBQ dinner at a local home along with drinks, music and dancing!

After breakfast, meet up with an expert local guide and head to the Iguazu Falls (sometimes spelled Iguazú) inside Brazil’s Iguaçu National Park. This massive waterfall system is the largest in the world. Follow your guide to the best vantage points, or follow the pathways to the foot of the falls if you wish. This afternoon offers an exciting optional excursion which is ideal for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts. Join the Birds of Brazil excursion to visit a renowned bird sanctuary which is home to colourful creatures such as macaws, toucans and butterflies! Later, return to the hotel and be sure to grab some rest - tomorrow is another exciting day!

There are a variety of excursions available in Foz do Iguaçu today! Choose to embark on a guided tour of the Argentinean side of the falls, enjoy a boat ride and views of the Salto Tres Mosqueteros (The Three Musketeers) and the awe-inspiring Devil’s Throat waterfalls! Please note, this optional activity is weather-dependent and may be moved to another day if weather conditions are poor. Your tour leader will keep you informed should this be the case. Tonight, the world-famous Rafain show and dinner experience is on offer. This is your opportunity to immerse yourself in Latin American dance, music and cuisine!

Take another day to explore the Iguazu Falls region at your own pace. You could admire the falls or visit the local bird park. Today also offers a day trip to Paraguay. Cross the bridge over Paraná River to enter Ciudad del Este in Paraguay. Browse local shops and markets, encounter the Monday Waterfalls, and visit the Itaipú Dam - the world's most expansive hydroelectric power plant. Please note that this optional excursion may also be rescheduled if weather conditions are poor. Ask your tour leader for more information. Tonight is free to spend as you wish. Why not get together with your fellow travellers for one last dinner?

The Rio to Iguazu tour comes to an end after breakfast in Foz do Iguaçu this morning. If you would like to extend your stay in Foz do Iguaçu after the tour, please contact us to confirm the hotel. By this point, you will have enjoyed 10 incredible days exploring the very best of Brazil. A true delight!