Epic Brazil

Let us take you on an immersive journey through the natural beauty, cosmopolitan coastline and vibrancy of the Eastern coast of Brazil. With highly knowledgeable guides you will unearth the rich beauty of this region as you get under the skin of vibrant Salvador, the exhilarating streets of Rio, paradise beach town of colonial Paraty and the epic waterfalls of the Iguazú National Falls Park, soaking up the very best of Brazil’s green coast, with samba beats and cultural delights all the way.

Salvador, Itacare, Rio de Janeiro, Paraty, Foz do Iguaçu
15 nights private tour from $12,300 per person
Imagine Active Brazil
Journey highlights
  • Discover vibrant Salvador and the beautiful architecture of colonial Paraty, soaking up the very best of Brazil’s green coast on a captivating boat trip

  • Visit the iconic sights of Rio de Janeiro, including Sugar Loaf Mountain and the Christ the Redeemer statue, as well as the lower city of the Itapagipe Peninsula

  • Lose yourself in barefoot luxury at the luxe Txai Itacaré resort, with the lapping clear blue shore as your backdrop 

  • Be blown away by the scale and raw beauty of the Iguazú National Falls Park, staying at the luxurious Belmond Hotel

Our tailor made journeys include:
  • Your dedicated Travel Consultant who will take care of arrangements
  • Private international airport transfers in destination
  • Your own private, English-speaking local guides
  • Unique experiences, hand-picked by our Journeys team
  • Entrance to must-see local sites
  • Dedicated 24/7 team providing in-country support and guidance
  • Complimentary access to My Scott Dunn – industry-leading travel app providing pre-departure information and in-journey support

When to visit

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Best time to visit
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Temperatures in Bahia vary little from month to month and it's warm all year round, with average highs hovering around 30°C. April to July is the wettest season (though it can rain at any time) and June to September bring slightly cooler evenings.

Salvador goes mad during Carnaval (February or March depending on the year) - more than 2 million party-goers hit the streets for a colourful riot of dancing and drinking - expect prices to hike and availability to fall dramatically.

Itinerary

Fly to Salvador
Day 1-5

Itacare, Bahia, Brazil

After breakfast, transfer from Villa Bahia to the airport for your flight to Ilhéus. After your flight you will be met at the airport and transferred to the stunning Txai Itacaré Resort. Sink into relaxation while you enjoy all the simple pleasures of the beautiful Bahian coastline.

Spread across a hillside dotted with coconut groves, this environmentally responsible resort enjoys an impressive beachfront spot, built to blend seamlessly into the landscape. A charming hideaway of spacious bungalows and guestrooms, Txai Itacaré is infused with a rustic style and laidback luxe. The site includes a series of glittering pools, a hilltop spa, tennis courts, Bahia-style restaurants, choice of organized activities, a comfortable guest lounge and library. This dreamy spa aims to restore balance and wellbeing through a range of therapeutic rituals, massages, and yoga. Other leisure activities include relaxing on the beach, surfing the waves, hiking the beach trails, boat tours of local rivers, waterfalls and islands and guided local tours to Vila Rosa Farm, a local cocoa farm and factory for a chocolate tasting session. Your children will have a sensational time at the dedicated children’s pool and take part in activities such as painting, clay modelling, games and tree climbing.

Enjoy everything the resort has to offer over your four days here before you are transferred back to the airport for your onward journey to Rio de Janeiro.
Accommodation: Txai Resort ( 4 nights )
Day 5-8

Salvador, Bahia, Brazil

Welcome to Brazil! You will be met at the airport and driven to Villa Bahia Hotel where you will be staying for the next few nights. Feeling the authenticity of Salvador, Villa Bahia is a beautiful boutique hotel lovingly converted from two beautiful colonial mansions dating from the 17th and 18th centuries - perfectly placed to enjoy everything this vibrant city has to offer. Home to gorgeous, cobbled streets and churches, great food, capoeira and sizzling music.

After a relaxed first evening and taking time to settle into the lovely Villa Bahia, the following day you can enjoy a guided tour of the energetic and culturally alive city. With percussion being at the heart of Bahia you get to enjoy a percussion workshop. Your guide will take you to meet a famous local musician and learn how to play a variety of beats with a percussion workshop, where you will have the chance to try an array of instruments including the formidable berimbau, the main instrument of the capoeira. This is a great option for families, and for those who have a passion for learning about another culture through their main roots, such as music.

After the percussion workshop, you will embark on a fascinating historical city tour of Salvador. Firstly you will head to mouth of All Saints Bay as you weave towards Pelourinho via elegant tree-lined avenues, to the historical and cultural heart of Salvador. Your guide will take you to Municipal Square, by the towering Lacerda Elevator that connects the

Upper City and the Downtown, taking in the astonishing view of the bay.

You will have time to stroll in Pelourinho, or ‘Pelô’ as it is called by the locals, a neighbourhood preserved as part of UNESCO cultural heritage. Walk the narrow streets, admiring the sites, and sounds of this vibrant area, and its colonial architecture in Portuguese baroque style. The tour will include a visit to the São Francisco Church, and Pelourinho Square, the core of the old town, home to great craft shops, museums, restaurants, and bars, where you can spend some time mooching at the end of this beautiful tour. You may spot somewhere you fancy going for a delicious meal before your return to the hotel.

The following day you will be taken to visit FICA (the Portuguese translation for International Federation of Angolan Capoeira). This is the slower and subtler of the two forms of martial arts found in Brazil. To become a master on this art, it demands years of dedication to the finer details of it. Here we will meet with the capoeira group leaders, learn of the history and philosophy, try our hands on the instruments, and learn the basic movements.

You can then look forward to a panoramic Lower City tour, taking you to the quiet waters of the Itapagipe Peninsula where life moves at a slower pace than the bustling upper city. Fishermen fish from dug out canoes, locals collect shellfish at low tide, schooners lie at anchor, all protected by the famous Bonfim church, one of the most important churches of pilgrimage in Brazil and deeply influenced by the Candomblé beliefs. Your guide will then take you to the Montserrat district with its panoramic view of the city and then on to the Mercado Modelo, a thriving market for local goods, and souvenirs. Time to test your bargaining talents and find some local gems. You will then have the remainder of your day at leisure to soak up buzzing Salvador before you leave for the coast the following day.

Accommodation: Villa Bahia ( 3 nights )
Day 8-11

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Transfer from the resort for your flight to Rio de Janeiro. Once landed you will be greeted by your host and transferred to hotel Fasano Rio de Janero. Located on the beach in a sublime position to make the most of the lively city and large stretch of sandy coast. Take some time to refresh after your flight and spend the rest of the day at your leisure.

The following morning you will be taken on a fascinating tour of Rio. With great excitement, you will head to one of the world's most famous sites, the Christ the Redeemer statue. With its open arms blessing the whole city of Rio de Janeiro, the statue is exquisitely positioned on top of the 710-meter-high Corcovado (hunchback) Hill. You will be blown away by the vast views of the whole city spread below including Copacabana, Ipanema beaches, the Lagoon, Sugar Loaf Mountain, Guanabara Bay, and Niterói City. One you arrive back down to earth, the next stop on your tour will be Santa Teresa, a unique part of Rio located on the hills with old houses, and narrow streets. You can feel the art, music, and historical atmosphere come alive as you travel the area. Followed by a drive through Lapa, where you will visit the world-famous Selarón Stairs. The end of the day will finish on

a high with a cable car ride up Sugar Loaf Mountain, one of the city’s most famous landmarks.

The next day you will be treated to a wonderful guided market tour. Bursting with vibrant flavor and colors you will be led through a myriad of stalls, where your guide will highlight the local produce and the vendors will be more than happy for you to taste their various produce so you can really get a taste of this tantalizing cuisine. Taste a range of delicious street food, tasty bar snacks, amazing fruits, and juices, weird Amazonian dishes, Brazilian beers, cocktails, and plenty more. The tour isn't just about eating – as you walk around, your host will point out street art and other places of interest, he will tell you about the history of Rio, chat about life in the city today and give you insider tips on the best things to do in Rio. Choose s pot for dinner and soak up your final evening in this iconic Rio de Janeiro.
Accommodation: Fasano Rio de Janeiro ( 3 nights )
Day 11-14

Paraty, Southern Coast, Brazil

It is time to bid farewell to Rio and take your journey south to the tropical paradise of Paraty. Your transfer will take you to your hotel Casa Turquesa, a beautifully decorated two-storey 18th century historic house located in the colonial center of this charming town, bringing an extra slice luxury to your time in Paraty.  The hotel has an internal courtyard, with a garden and swimming pool equipped with jacuzzi, the perfect spot to unwind before your explorations the following day.

After a relaxing first night you will embark on a walking tour of Paraty. Your guide will point out the abundance of characterful architecture, its originality and historical relevance. You will be transported back in time as you take in the irregular sidewalks, thick decorated walls, colonial constructions with wrought iron balconies & freemasonry culture. Your guide will take you to some of the most important sights of the city such as the House of Culture, and the Matriz church. Spend the rest of the day exploring at your leisure, stop for coffee and a tasty restaurant for a delicious supper.

The following day head to the sparkling blue sea for a five-hour boat ride around the beautiful scenery and beaches of Paraty Bay. Made up of 65 islands the captain and your guide will take you to some of the most beautiful beaches and islands in the area, such as ‘Comprida’ Island, famous for being a natural aquarium full of exotic fish. Soak up the unique

vegetation as you explore the shoreline, with opportunities for swimming and snorkeling in these crystal-clear waters.

Enjoy your final evening in Paraty before you continue your journey inland to lush Foz do Iguaçu.

Accommodation: Casa Turquesa ( 3 nights )
Day 14-16

Iguaçu Falls, Brazil

Bid farewell to Paraty for your next flight onward to the vibrant Foz do Iguaçu. Once arrived, you will be greeted by your host and transferred to the Hotel das Cataratas, a Belmond Hotel. With a spellbinding location, the luxurious hotel is just a short stroll from the spectacular Iguazu Falls. With a swimming pool, tennis courts and gorgeous restaurants, you will be spilt with your downtime here.

Start your day with a beautiful breakfast before your walking tour of the Iguazú National Falls Park. Firstly, you will board a gas-propelled train which will take you to the upper falls circuit and the Devil’s Throat, the most impressive waterfall at Iguassu. A walkway rising 1100 meters high from the Iguassu River will lead to a magnificent panorama of the largest and most striking waterfall in the region. From this viewpoint, you will be so close to this spectacular site that you will feel the power and magic of this stunning complex of waterfalls. Explore the lower circuit of walkways and soak up even more of the striking views of the Iguassu River with its breathtaking falls, and landscapes.

If you have an adventurous streak, then be sure to join the Gran Aventura boat tour. You will be faced with whirlpool waves, and currents from the falls, a surefire way to get the adrenaline pumping. Over the border of the park in Argentina, you will jump on adapted large trucks ready and waiting to take you four miles into the humid subtropical forest to the banks of the Iguassu River. Board the waiting zodiac boats for a high-speed ride downstream from the falls. This will be a journey of pure excitement and fun, surrounded by the cliffs formed by waterfalls. With the sun out around you, rainbows are formed between the cliffs, creating a celestial gateway to paradise. A very special experience! Disembark the boat at the walkways to join the lower visitation circuit.

Return to the hotel for your final evening of luxurious relaxation, soak up the night sky with a drink in hand and the vast sky of the national park sparkling above you.

It’s time to say goodbye to the forest and transfer back to the airport for your onward journey home.

Accommodation: Hotel das Cataratas, A Belmond Hotel ( 2 nights )
Fly home from Porto Seguro
We design each itinerary around you, so this suggested itinerary is a starting point that we can tweak or transform into something completely bespoke to you.
Call us on 212 372 7009 to start planning your holiday.

Price Guide: (per person based on double occupancy and includes international flights)

Departing Price from*
  • Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
  • Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
  • Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
Deposit from * Enquire
December 2024 $12,900 $3,200 plan your trip
January 2025 $12,600 $3,200 plan your trip
February 2025 $12,300 $3,100 plan your trip
March 2025 $12,300 $3,100 plan your trip
April 2025 $12,300 $3,100 plan your trip
May 2025 $12,300 $3,100 plan your trip
June 2025 $12,300 $3,100 plan your trip
July 2025 $12,900 $3,200 plan your trip
August 2025 $12,900 $3,200 plan your trip
September 2025 $12,900 $3,200 plan your trip
October 2025 $12,900 $3,200 plan your trip
November 2025 $12,900 $3,200 plan your trip
  • December 2024
    Price from *
    • Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
    • Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
    • Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
    $12,900
    Deposit from*
    $3,200
  • January 2025
    Price from *
    • Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
    • Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
    • Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
    $12,600
    Deposit from*
    $3,200
  • February 2025
    Price from *
    • Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
    • Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
    • Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
    $12,300
    Deposit from*
    $3,100
  • March 2025
    Price from *
    • Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
    • Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
    • Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
    $12,300
    Deposit from*
    $3,100
  • April 2025
    Price from *
    • Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
    • Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
    • Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
    $12,300
    Deposit from*
    $3,100
  • May 2025
    Price from *
    • Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
    • Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
    • Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
    $12,300
    Deposit from*
    $3,100
  • June 2025
    Price from *
    • Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
    • Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
    • Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
    $12,300
    Deposit from*
    $3,100
  • July 2025
    Price from *
    • Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
    • Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
    • Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
    $12,900
    Deposit from*
    $3,200
  • August 2025
    Price from *
    • Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
    • Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
    • Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
    $12,900
    Deposit from*
    $3,200
  • September 2025
    Price from *
    • Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
    • Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
    • Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
    $12,900
    Deposit from*
    $3,200
  • October 2025
    Price from *
    • Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
    • Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
    • Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
    $12,900
    Deposit from*
    $3,200
  • November 2025
    Price from *
    • Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
    • Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
    • Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
    $12,900
    Deposit from*
    $3,200
  • plan your trip