Signature Brazil: Brazil at a glance
15 days from £4,375
Explore the tour day by day, from the highlights to the quieter moments in between. Here’s how each day unfolds and what to expect along the way.
Arrive in Rio de Janeiro, the most romantic, intriguing and beautiful city on the continent. However, as you’ll see on the drive into town it’s not uniformly beguiling: Brazil’s economic indicators have shown massive growth recently but the gulf between the rich and the poor is the greatest of all Latin American countries. Sumptuous apartments overlook the sparkling bays against the backdrop of half-built slum dwellings, favelas, which cling precariously to the hillsides.
The attractive, contemporary Porto Bay Rio International is ideally located on Copacabana’s beachfront with superb views across the coastline from the striking rooftop pool. Guestrooms are relatively spacious and most have sought-after ocean views and balconies, unusual in Rio.
Rooms without balconies have floor-to-ceiling windows and magnificent, dual-aspect views. Rooms also have air-con, cable TV, Wifi and ensuite bathrooms.
There is a 5th-floor restaurant with great beach views, plus a sauna, small gym, cafe and bar, while the highlight is undoubtedly the rooftop lounge bar and decked open-air pool area overlooking Copacabana’s golden sands.
There is probably no better place to appreciate Rio’s magnificent cityscape, bays and beaches than from atop the 710m high jungle clad Corcovado mountain, part of the urban Tijuca national park. The ascent is in itself memorable: the rack railway which goes almost to the summit has been here since the late 1800s, although since refurbished. Nowadays, an electric-powered cog-wheel train climbs steeply through the lush Tijuca rainforest, with its abundant flowers and fruit trees, to the steps (or elevators) below the iconic statue of Christ the Redeemer.
At 30m high, the statue was erected in the early 1930s, has since become part of Brazil’s cultural identity and been declared one of the new Wonders of the World. On clear and sunny days, Corcovado offers stunning views of the city of Rio, including the instantly recognisable Sugar Loaf mountain, Niteroi bridge, and the famous beaches. There’s plenty of time to take pictures but no amount of time is enough to totally take it all in. After exploring the viewpoints you’ll take the railway back down to the base before returning to your hotel.
The attractive, contemporary Porto Bay Rio International is ideally located on Copacabana’s beachfront with superb views across the coastline from the striking rooftop pool. Guestrooms are relatively spacious and most have sought-after ocean views and balconies, unusual in Rio.
Rooms without balconies have floor-to-ceiling windows and magnificent, dual-aspect views. Rooms also have air-con, cable TV, Wifi and ensuite bathrooms.
There is a 5th-floor restaurant with great beach views, plus a sauna, small gym, cafe and bar, while the highlight is undoubtedly the rooftop lounge bar and decked open-air pool area overlooking Copacabana’s golden sands.
You will be collected from your hotel for a guided excursion to Pão de Açucar (Sugar Loaf mountain). Take the cable-car up the twin domed granite rocks which protrude from the ocean. This is especially magical at sunset when the twinkling lights of the city are coming on and you can enjoy the magnificent views back over Copacabana beach, Botafogo Bay and into the lush mountains beyond.
The attractive, contemporary Porto Bay Rio International is ideally located on Copacabana’s beachfront with superb views across the coastline from the striking rooftop pool. Guestrooms are relatively spacious and most have sought-after ocean views and balconies, unusual in Rio.
Rooms without balconies have floor-to-ceiling windows and magnificent, dual-aspect views. Rooms also have air-con, cable TV, Wifi and ensuite bathrooms.
There is a 5th-floor restaurant with great beach views, plus a sauna, small gym, cafe and bar, while the highlight is undoubtedly the rooftop lounge bar and decked open-air pool area overlooking Copacabana’s golden sands.
It’s a 2hr flight to Foz do Iguaçú on the border with Argentina and Paraguay. You’ll be escorted to the Brazilian side of the Iguazú Falls which straddle the frontier protected in a subtropical national park. Here is a broad panoramic view of these colossal falls, and there are some excellent opportunities to photograph the full sweep of the water.
The Iguazú Falls constitute one of the most extraordinary natural phenomena in the world. A total of 275 falls thunder over a 60m high rust-coloured cliff surrounded by dense tropical forest. The U-shaped Devil’s Throat is the most dramatic sight, here the frothing water of the Iguazú river crashes over a 1.5km-wide precipice and columns of vapour are thrown skyward. Elsewhere the river flows decorously through the rainforest breaking up into dozens of smaller cascades. You can usually spot exotic birds perched in the foliage above the tumultuous waters.
Sanma has an excellent location within walking distance of Iguaçú Falls National Park, only 2km from the airport.
Set in its own small reserve, Sanma’s low-rise design, natural setting and extensive grounds makes it an appealing and relaxing base for exploring the falls and surrounding rainforest.
Compact guest rooms have a clean, minimalist style, well-equipped with the essentials, while larger family suites are also available.
The large outdoor swimming pool and terraced area has sunbeds, a hot tub, pool bar and tennis court. For dining and entertainment, the hotel also offers two restaurants and a piano bar.
There are woodland walks in the hotel grounds to the river, and the nearby Bird Park is worth visiting, an opportunity to walk through aviaries and observe a plethora of tropical birds.
Sanma is across the road from the heliport, near the international airport and the falls themselves are within a 15-minute drive.
Private guided tour of the Argentine side of the falls. A little natural gas-powered train transfers you to Cataratas Station where the Upper Walk begins. This sequence of causeways and passarelles links dozens of tiny basalt islands at the top of the sheer rock face, and the walkways cross the myriad of streams as they cascade over the lip of the precipice. The train then continues to a kilometre-long walkway leading across the river to the thunderous Garganta del Diablo, the Devil’s Throat. From this spectacular vantage point you can feel the incredible power of the water as it plummets into the vortex below.
There is an optional boat trip out to the base of the falls; it’s an exhilarating ride that takes you within touching distance of these thunderous cascades and your clothes and hair are soaked with the spray; it is a truly invigorating experience.
Sanma has an excellent location within walking distance of Iguaçú Falls National Park, only 2km from the airport.
Set in its own small reserve, Sanma’s low-rise design, natural setting and extensive grounds makes it an appealing and relaxing base for exploring the falls and surrounding rainforest.
Compact guest rooms have a clean, minimalist style, well-equipped with the essentials, while larger family suites are also available.
The large outdoor swimming pool and terraced area has sunbeds, a hot tub, pool bar and tennis court. For dining and entertainment, the hotel also offers two restaurants and a piano bar.
There are woodland walks in the hotel grounds to the river, and the nearby Bird Park is worth visiting, an opportunity to walk through aviaries and observe a plethora of tropical birds.
Sanma is across the road from the heliport, near the international airport and the falls themselves are within a 15-minute drive.
Transfer to the airport and fly north across almost the length of the country to Manaus, deep in the Amazon rainforest. The huge, dynamic city sits on the banks of the river where the tea-black waters of the Rio Negro make confluence with the brown, muddy waters of River Solimões to form the Amazon river proper.
It’s 1,000km from the sea, but is one of Brazil’s foremost ports, importing goods required for a growing metropolis (currently 2.5 million inhabitants) and exporting goods manufactured in the tax free zone. It is weird to see a clutch of skyscrapers penetrating the blanket of tropical forest.
Overnight at a hotel close to the Teatro Amazonas, Manaus’ famous opera house, built in 1896 almost entirely of materials imported from Europe. It remains a symbol of the rubber boom to this day.
Just a stone’s throw from Manaus downtown Opera House, Villa Amazonia is a converted colonial mansion and something of a haven in the city.
Its grandiose entrance, complete with ornate, lemon-tinted façade leads into a reception area combining original stone walls and a wood-panelled ceiling. This, along with the friendly service and collection of decorative antiques, cultivates a warm, homely atmosphere throughout.
Guest rooms continue the blend of modern and traditional, with marbled bathrooms and rainmaker showers complementing the classic style.
The in-house restaurant offers a tropical take on many familiar classics. Other standout features include an outdoor swimming pool and private garden, over which most rooms have a view.
There’s time this morning for a brief look around Manaus with a local guide, including entrance to the Teatro Amazonas (closed on Mondays). The central core – Sao Sebastiao – has a wealth of grand old architecture linked with the rubber boom era. Beyond, the city is an immense, often bewildering metropolis, whose fascinating markets serve as a reminder that you are in the heart of the Amazon rainforest.
This afternoon, travel by road and boat to your lodge, 30km from the city. It’s not an arduous journey, but the length of time it takes depends on the season. Brazilian jungle lodges are comfortable, ell equipped and they are eco-friendly, constructed to blend in with the natural environment. The food is fresh and scrumptious, and there is plenty of it, and you can relax in the bar area over a caipirinha cocktail and listen to the chorus of nocturnal birds and frogs.
Amazon Village Lodge has spacious thatched bungalows constructed from beautiful rosewood in lush Brazilian rainforest.
This purpose-built eco-lodge is 30km upstream from Manaus on the banks of the Puraqucuara, a small tributary of black water. It offers a taste of the jungle rather than an in-depth exploratory experience, reached from Manaus via motorised canoe.
In high water (April to August) some guests swim off the pier, and canoe trips through the flooded forest are particularly enchanting. Excursions also include guided jungle walks and nocturnal safaris.
Rooms each have a private veranda and hammock. There’s an off-grid feel here with battery-powered lighting creating a quiet and atmospheric feel. For many guests, the lack of Wifi is a welcome invitation to disconnect.
The lodge has a cosy bar, spacious sundeck and reception lounge with comfy sofas, as well as a large al-fresco restaurant serving a substantial buffet prepared with fresh local ingredients.
You’ll be invited to take part in a number of excursions both during the day and after dark. There are jungle walks following easy trails and you can take to the water in canoes or motor launches, on the lookout for wildlife expertly identified by your specialist guides. You’ll go piranha fishing and nocturnal caiman spotting by torchlight. You’ll learn about the lifestyle of the indigenous people and visit one of their communities: if the water is low and this is impossible by boat, they will come to you!
In the evenings you can enjoy the facilities of the bar to sit and discuss your experiences over a drink.You spend a total of three nights at the lodge, so there is plenty of time to enjoy different experiences and maybe spot monkeys, sloths, parrots, toucans, alligators, tarantula spiders, giant ants and much more. The number of plant and flower species is mindboggling too: you’ll be told about their traditional medicinal properties.
Amazon Village Lodge has spacious thatched bungalows constructed from beautiful rosewood in lush Brazilian rainforest.
This purpose-built eco-lodge is 30km upstream from Manaus on the banks of the Puraqucuara, a small tributary of black water. It offers a taste of the jungle rather than an in-depth exploratory experience, reached from Manaus via motorised canoe.
In high water (April to August) some guests swim off the pier, and canoe trips through the flooded forest are particularly enchanting. Excursions also include guided jungle walks and nocturnal safaris.
Rooms each have a private veranda and hammock. There’s an off-grid feel here with battery-powered lighting creating a quiet and atmospheric feel. For many guests, the lack of Wifi is a welcome invitation to disconnect.
The lodge has a cosy bar, spacious sundeck and reception lounge with comfy sofas, as well as a large al-fresco restaurant serving a substantial buffet prepared with fresh local ingredients.
Transfer back to Manaus and fly to Salvador, Bahia on the northeast coast. Transfer to your hotel.
Casa do Amarelindo is a top choice for visitors to Salvador, an enchanting colonial-style hotel. Décor is immaculately judged, balancing a sense of history with contemporary comfort and a splash of Brazilian colour.
The French-owned 19th century building is right in the middle of the action in the historic centre known as Pelourinho, with its vibrant jumble of pastel-coloured houses, cobbled streets and lively bars. Once inside, however, you enter a haven of quiet elegance.
There is a small selection of fully-equipped rooms and bathrooms come with spacious walk-in showers. Deluxe rooms have views over the bay and huge beds in which to cocoon yourself after a busy day’s exploration.
There is a very good restaurant serving predominantly local cuisine and perhaps the best passion fruit caipirinhas in Salvador. The excellent breakfast can be served on the main terrace. There is also a bar leading to a pretty little courtyard, gym, and small infinity pool with bay views.
The city of Salvador is the most exotic in the country, where the influence of Portuguese colonial architecture and culture blends with the African traditions imported by the slaves brought in to work on the plantations. The compact historic core has recently been renovated and is crammed full of colourful colonial mansions, churches and museums, all clustered around a large open space known as the pelourinho, which is the heart of the city.
You’ll have a private guided walking tour of this quarter, best discovered on foot. The area is enlivened with bars, shops and restaurants, and you can expect spontaneous eruptions of music at every turn. The local cuisine is very much a product of the region and its cultural mélange: you can try out any number of dishes at the many eateries in town.
Casa do Amarelindo is a top choice for visitors to Salvador, an enchanting colonial-style hotel. Décor is immaculately judged, balancing a sense of history with contemporary comfort and a splash of Brazilian colour.
The French-owned 19th century building is right in the middle of the action in the historic centre known as Pelourinho, with its vibrant jumble of pastel-coloured houses, cobbled streets and lively bars. Once inside, however, you enter a haven of quiet elegance.
There is a small selection of fully-equipped rooms and bathrooms come with spacious walk-in showers. Deluxe rooms have views over the bay and huge beds in which to cocoon yourself after a busy day’s exploration.
There is a very good restaurant serving predominantly local cuisine and perhaps the best passion fruit caipirinhas in Salvador. The excellent breakfast can be served on the main terrace. There is also a bar leading to a pretty little courtyard, gym, and small infinity pool with bay views.
One hour up the coast is Salvador’s most convenient beach escape, Praia do Forte. Thanks to its carefully managed conservation projects, Praia do Forte has developed over the decades into an established family-orientated resort without losing its Bahian character. It’s lively at weekends and holidays but miles of palm-lined sands mean there’s room for everyone.
Secluded by palms and lush foliage, Porto da Lua is one of the only properties in Praia do Forte located directly on the beach. The spacious guestrooms are cheerfully decorated with bright colours, tiled flooring and private terraces or balconies where you can swing in a hammock fanned by the cooling ocean breeze.
Rooms also have TVs, ceiling fans and wonderful views through the palms to the beach. There are several larger suites and apartments available.
There’s an airy, tropical feel throughout the building, setting the tone for unhurried days of relaxation. The hotel has a restaurant and bar with the option to dine outside overlooking the beach. Begin the day with fresh fruit and juices, and end with a cocktail and freshly-cooked seafood.
Days in Praia do Forte can be as relaxed as you wish, although there’s plenty to fill your time whether its beach-combing before breakfast, a visit to the Projeto Tamar turtle sanctuary, ecological reserve or nearby fortress. Nights are generally low-key here, busier on weekends and holidays but the main strip has plenty of eating options and there’s a family-orientated atmosphere. Optional whale-watching activities take place at Praia do Forte between August and October.
Secluded by palms and lush foliage, Porto da Lua is one of the only properties in Praia do Forte located directly on the beach. The spacious guestrooms are cheerfully decorated with bright colours, tiled flooring and private terraces or balconies where you can swing in a hammock fanned by the cooling ocean breeze.
Rooms also have TVs, ceiling fans and wonderful views through the palms to the beach. There are several larger suites and apartments available.
There’s an airy, tropical feel throughout the building, setting the tone for unhurried days of relaxation. The hotel has a restaurant and bar with the option to dine outside overlooking the beach. Begin the day with fresh fruit and juices, and end with a cocktail and freshly-cooked seafood.
It’s a 1-hour transfer to Salvador airport to connect with your onward flight (not included).
The places you’ll stay and explore on this tour. Here’s a closer look at each one and what makes it worth the trip.
Brazil - Rio de Janeiro
Waking up to your first view of Copacabana Beach is one of Brazil’s great travel moments, and Rio only builds from there. Granite peaks, rainforest-covered hills and golden sand meet a city that never quite sits still: samba spilling out of bars, football on the beach, Carnival taking over the streets once a year.
Brazil - The Brazilian Amazon
Home to the largest stretch of Amazon rainforest Brazil has within its borders, this is the world’s biggest tropical wilderness – mighty rivers, extraordinary wildlife and dense jungle combining to form one of the planet’s most remarkable environments. For anyone chasing genuine wilderness, Amazon adventure holidays don’t get more immersive than this.
Brazil - Iguazu Falls – Brazilian Side
Experience one of South America’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders, where immense waterfalls plunge through subtropical rainforest alive with birds, butterflies and other wildlife. The Brazilian side of Iguazú Falls offers sweeping panoramic views, exhilarating adventures and an unforgettable perspective on this extraordinary landscape.
Brazil - Salvador, Lencois and the beaches of Bahia
Afro-Brazilian culture, colonial architecture, tropical beaches and dramatic mountain landscapes combine in Bahia to create one of Brazil’s most vibrant and diverse regions. From the colourful streets of Salvador Brazil to the waterfalls of Chapada Diamantina and the palm-fringed beaches of the Bahian coast, these Bahia holidays capture Brazil at its most captivating.
This highlights holiday aims to show off the country at its best – Rio de Janeiro, a sensual city full of fun; Iguazú Falls, among the world’s most impressive cataracts; the wildlife jungles of the Amazon; Salvador, the pulsating African heart of the country; and the sweeping palm-fringed beaches of Praia do Forte.
Each region of Brazil has its own traditions, arts and music, its own culinary specialities and its own natural wonders. The varied landscapes and palm-shaded beaches are gorgeous, while the multifarious cultural influences of Brazil’s indigenous population, migrants from Europe, Portugal’s African colonies, Japan and the Lebanon, are everywhere to be seen on this holiday to the absolute top sights.
Kathryn Rhodes
All of our experts have lived or travelled extensively in Latin America, so you will receive unrivalled advice based on unique personal experiences.
The practical detail for this tour, all in one place. Transport, accommodation, what’s included and what to pack, so you know exactly what to expect before you go.
- Summary of Nights
15 days, 14 nights: Rio 3; Iguazú 2, Manaus 1, Amazon jungle 3; Salvador 2; Praia do Forte 3.
- Accommodation
This trip uses mid-range and upper mid-range accommodation that we think is great value, comfortable, well-located and which showcases a touch of local character. Properties vary in heritage from colonial style to resort-style lodges, but will all be well-equipped with rooms that have private bathrooms. Most accommodation is flexible and can be tailored to meet your specific preferences and requirements.
The jungle lodge has wooden thatched cabins with lighting (evenings only) and private bathroom, but no air-conditioning.
- Transport
3 domestic flights, and several road journeys under two hours. Connecting flights at the start and end of the holiday not included.
- Meals
Breakfast daily, full board at the Amazon lodge.
- Guides
Our local, trusted and carefully selected partners understand the expectations of our customers very well, and their staff and guides are consistently singled out for praise by clients on their return. On this holiday, you will be joined by different guides for each activity and or region, ensuring you benefit from specialised expertise and knowledge, often from someone local to the area.
- Optional Excursions
In addition to the excursions included in your holiday, our Travel Experts can suggest a range of additional optional excursions for days at leisure. We recommend booking these before you arrive in Latin America.
- Do I need a visa to visit Brazil?
British passport holders don’t need a visa for tourist visits of up to 90 days. Your passport should be valid for at least six months from the start of your trip. If you’re routing through the US, you’ll need an ESTA in advance. Always check the latest entry requirements before you travel, as rules can change.
- How do I get to Brazil from the UK?
British Airways flies direct from London Heathrow to both Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, taking around 11.5 hours to Rio. There are also connecting routes via Lisbon, Madrid and other European hubs. We arrange all flights and transfers, and can quote them separately based on your dates.
- What’s the best way to travel around Brazil?
The country’s size makes domestic flights the most practical way to cover long distances, with most routes connecting through São Paulo or Rio. Within regions, we arrange private transfers and guided excursions. In the Pantanal, travel is by 4×4 and boat from your lodge, and in the Amazon, river transport is part of the experience.
- What currency does Brazil use?
The official currency is the Brazilian real. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in cities and tourist areas, and ATMs are available in most towns, though some have withdrawal limits. Carry some cash for tips, smaller purchases and rural areas. We’ll advise on the latest currency situation before you travel.
- How long should I spend in Brazil?
Two weeks works well for a first trip, pairing Rio with Iguazú Falls and either the Amazon or the Pantanal. To go further and add Salvador, the northeast beaches or Fernando de Noronha, allow three weeks or more. We’ll help you build an itinerary that makes the most of your time.
- What language is spoken in Brazil?
Portuguese is the official language, and Brazil is the only Portuguese-speaking country in South America. English is spoken in hotels and tourist areas, less so beyond them, so a few words of Portuguese go a long way and are always warmly received.
- Is Brazil safe for travellers?
The tourist areas of Brazil are generally safe and well visited. As in any large city, take sensible precautions in Rio and São Paulo, keeping an eye on your surroundings, avoiding flashy valuables and using licensed taxis or ride apps. We plan every itinerary carefully with trusted local partners, and our Travel Experts will advise on anything specific to your route.
- What countries can I combine with Brazil?
Brazil pairs naturally with Argentina, taking in both sides of Iguazú Falls and adding Buenos Aires or Patagonia. Peru combines well for a broader South America itinerary, and Uruguay is an easy connection from the south. Our Travel Experts can design a multi-country trip around you.
Why choose Journey Latin America for your holiday
We’ve been planning trips to Central and South America for over 45 years, longer than any other UK specialist. Every holiday is built around you by a Travel Expert who has been to the places they recommend, with support from your first enquiry to the day you fly home.
Rosie embarked on a year-long backpacking trip across Latin America. She is excited to share her knowledge and experiences with others.
Finn discovered his passion for travel on an extensive 18-month trip to Latin America, experiencing the vibrant Carnaval in Rio, the end-of-the-world city of Ushuaia, trekking the Andes and volunteering on the Galápagos Islands.
Maggie visited Latin America on her first backpacking trip when she was 19. Since then, she has taken every opportunity to travel, and has managed to explore a lot of the region in subsequent trips.
Gary discovered what he had been missing with his first foray into the wilds of Latin America. In his role as Product Manager, he combines this personal obsession with years of industry experience to help ensure that travellers will fall for the region every bit as much as he has.
Things to do
We proudly offer the widest range of activities, excursions and one-of-a-kind experiences across all our destinations, tried and tested personally by our travel experts.
Reach the top of Sugar Loaf mountain to enjoy views over Copacabana and Christ the Redeemer over Botafogo Bay, especially glorious at sunset.
Upgrade your visit to Iguazú with a wildlife safari and open boat ride to the base of the falls.
Witness one of South America’s most captivating natural phenomena as the dark waters of the Rio Negro collide with the paler Solimões.
Amble through Salvador’s past on a walking tour of its well-preserved historic centre.
Enjoy a high-energy performance by the renowned Balé Folclórico da Bahia dance troupe in the heart of historic Salvador.
Explore the unique metropolis of Manaus, an Amazonian powerhouse with a fascinating past and plenty of architectural riches to show for it.
Accommodation
Browse our unrivalled portfolio of accommodation. Every option has been carefully chosen by our team of travel experts, so you can rest assured that you will relax in utter comfort
Villa Amazonia is a contemporary, upscale hotel with colonial features and good facilities in the centre of Manaus in the Brazilian Amazon.
This rustic Amazonian lodge offers a taste of the jungle within easy reach of Manaus.
Smart, modern hotel with glorious views and an ideal location on the Copacabana beachfront.
Papagaio
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