Rio de Janeiro and the Costa Verde with Air France and KLM

Cariocas (the locals from Rio) have a saying that God made the world in six days and on the seventh he created Rio. One of South America’s most beautiful cities, Rio is spoilt when it comes to natural beauty; golden sand beaches, mountains cloaked in rainforest, a natural lagoon - it’s easy to see why the residents of Rio are justifiably proud of their city. Then of course there’s the vibrant beach culture, zesty caipirinha cocktails, juicy picanha steaks and pulsating samba beats - it therefore comes as no surprise either that this evocative city is a number one highlight on any holiday to South America. Linger a little longer though and you’ll soon discover one of Brazil’s most beautiful stretches of coast. Easily accessible by road and just a couple of hours from Rio, the aptly named Green Coast or Costa Verde runs approximately 300km southwest towards São Paulo. This entire region is peppered with hidden pockets of paradise; idyllic bays, secluded beaches with warm azure water, islands swathed in lush Atlantic rainforest and includes one of the country’s most historic and well-preserved towns, Paraty.

When to go:
The optimum time to visit Rio and the Green Coast are during the months of April, May and June when it is mostly dry and temperatures vary between 20 – 30 degrees. June is slightly cooler than April as we head towards winter. The coolest months are in July and August however, the temperature rarely falls below 15 degrees. September marks the start of spring when the temperatures begin to pick up again. December and March are the peak summer months with temperatures reaching 40 degrees in Rio – it’s slightly cooler along the coast. Although it can rain all year round – after all it is a tropical country, the wettest weather tends to be in January through to March.

Getting there:
Two ways to arrive is with Air France via Paris or KLM via Amsterdam to Rio’s international airport Galião. Both airlines fly via Europe daily - Air France offers a day flight via Paris whilst KLM offers an overnight flight via Amsterdam.

Flying to most major cities in Latin America, Air France and KLM are one of our preferred partners.
See the map for their comprehensive flight network

Destinations in Latin America served by Air France and KLM

Get the inside track on how to see the best of Rio in two days and don’t miss our guide to free things to do in Rio.

Holidays to Rio and the Green Coast include:
Rio Carnival 2019, 9 days from £2,875pp
Brazil Emerald Coast, 9 days from £1,627pp
Trogon: Natural Brazil, 12 days from £2,615pp

Top Accommodation:
Belmond Copacabana Palace – Rio
Fasano – Angra dos Reis
Sagu Mini Resort – Ilha Grande
Casa Cairuçu – Paraty Bay