WONDERS OF BRAZIL

A full day tour is on today’s exhilarating agenda. Head to Cosme Velho Station and board a cog train for the scenic ride through Tijuca Forest up Corcovado Mountain to view the towering statue of Christ the Redeemer. Descend by train and head past Rio’s world-famous beaches, then board a cable car for a two-staged ascent up Sugar Loaf Mountain. Next it’s on to Guanabara Bay and Flamengo Park. Visit the downtown area, stop at Confeitaria Colombo restaurant opened in 1894, and then head to Sambadrome the site of Rio’s famous Carnival parade. (B)

Take time to delve into the magic and mystique of this enchanting city at your own pace with a day at leisure or opt to join in one of the many optional tours available. Rio is situated on a 15-mile-strip of land, wedged between mountains and sea. There are some thirty miles separating downtown Flamengo from far-flung Recreio, bordered on one side by the blue sea and on the other by verdant hills. In between it’s brimming with a lively lifestyle, history, and culture to keep you enthused and enthralled at every turn. (B)

Transfer to the airport for your flight to Iguassu. Check-in to your hotel and get ready for unforgettable moments with an afternoon visit of the Brazilian side of the falls. Head up to the boardwalks located at the edge of the cliffs of the Iguassu River. Enjoy the vista of San Martín Island, Devil’s Throat from the observation deck, and the waterfalls of Bossetti, San Martín, and Three Musketeers. Take an elevator to go up to the road and board the coach for your drive back to the hotel. (B)

After breakfast, depart for the Argentinean side of the falls. Enjoy crossing the Tancredo Neves Bridge over the Iguassu River, which forms the border between Argentina & Brazil. On the Argentine side, you will take in the views of many of the area’s 275 waterfalls that fall from an average altitude of 230 feet. Here you will experience the Inferior Circuit, the downriver falls, the Superior Circuit, and up-river cascades, and then take the Ecological Jungle Train to the most impressive observation point of the falls – The Devil’s Throat. (B)

In the morning leave Iguassu and take a flight to Salvador. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel and check-in. Salvador, Bahia was the first capital of colonial Brazil from 1549 until 1763 and one of the oldest colonial cities in the New World. It is known as being the most African city in the Americas due to the strong African roots and traditions found in its cuisine, religion, music and arts. If you like history, culture, beach and a laid-back environment, Salvador is a perfect place for you to enjoy! (B)

Learn about the history and contrasts of Salvador today. Start at the modern neighborhood of Barra and head towards the historic section of Pelourinho, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its well preserved or restored colonial architecture. Here you will view the buildings that take you back to the beginnings of this vibrant city. Stop at the São Francisco Church, a symbol of baroque style, and finish at the Pelourinho Square, the heart of this neighborhood. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure to explore Salvador like a local. (B,L)

This morning enjoy breakfast at your hotel and get ready to take home the CARIOCA state of mind! Transfer to the airport for your return flight. (B)