Colours of the Tropical South
Itinerary
Days 1-3 – Catch your breath at Devil’s Throat
Your holiday starts with a flight to tropical Foz do Iguazu. The next few days are all about experiencing South America’s largest and most spectacular waterfalls: Iguazu Falls. What a way to start a Brazil trip! You’ll be staying in a comfortable, resort-style hotel with a tropical vibe, that’s located close to the Iguazu National Park.
The next day you’ll experience the mighty Iguazu Falls from both the Argentinian and Brazilian sides, as each offers a different perspective of the landscape and the waterfalls. The Brazilians are known for saying: ‘Argentina may have the falls, but we have the view!’ You’ll be accompanied with a private English-speaking guide, allowing you to ask questions along the way and experience the falls in your own time.
Days 3-5 – Curitiba, Scenic train to Morretes
Today you’ll be transferred to the airport in time to catch the short flight to Curitiba. Curitiba is one of the greenest and cleanest cities in Brazil, and is an ideal base for a couple of nights.
The next day you will take the train from Curitiba to Morretes, which is considered one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world. Opened in 1885, the single-track 70km line was a great challenge for engineers at the time. The railway winds along green mountain slopes and through tropical forest, passing through tunnels and over countless bridges. From the train you have a view over the jungle of the Serra do Mar and the mountains to the Atlantic Ocean. Your destination is the well preserved colonial town of Morretes, where you will have time to explore before returning to Curitiba by car.
Days 5 & 6 – Take the bus to Sao Paulo
The following day, you will take the bus to São Paulo. It’s a comfortable 6 hour trip, with plenty of legroom, luggage space, and air conditioning. Sao Paulo is Brazil’s largest city and, as well as being a convenient transport hub, offers a vibrant cultural scene, great restaurants and interesting museums. You’ll be staying at a centrally located hotel, just for the night before heading towards the coast…
Days 6 – 9 – The colonial town of Paraty
Today, you’ll join other travellers for the transfer to the colonial town of Paraty. The scenic drive along the lush green coast makes the time fly, and after about five hours, you’ll arrive at your charming pousada on the outskirts of the historic centre. This former gold town, surrounded by hills and forests, has a relaxed atmosphere and plenty of places to eat and drink around its cobbled and car-free streets. The Portuguese colonial buildings have been beautifully preserved, and there is evidence of the town’s former glories all around as you stroll through.
During your stay in Paraty, we’ll arrange a leisurely sailing trip aboard a schooner. Relax onboard as you sail past densely forested islands and secluded white, sandy beaches. You’ll stop off at several different locations so that you can explore, laze on the beach or snorkel in the crystal-clear sea.
Days 9 – 12 – Escape to Ilha Grande
Time for some R&R as you head to Ilha Grande, which is a picturesque two hour ferry crossing from Angra dos Reis. The island has a chequered history full of pirates and prisoners, but is now an oasis of tropical calm. Arriving in the main town, you’ll make your own way to your comfortable pousada a short walk away, and soon find yourself settling into the pace of island life.
On your second day we’ll arrange tickets for a boat which will take you to another side of the island, dropping you off just a short walk away from one of Brazil’s best beaches – Lopes Mendes. You’ll have the day here to relax on the sand and swim in the clear blue water, before heading back to town in time for some early evening Caipirinhas.
Days 12 – 14 – Revelling in Rio
This morning, you’ll reluctantly return to the mainland, where a driver will be waiting to take you on the two hour journey to Rio de Janeiro. Rio needs no introduction! This world famous city boasts sandy beaches, fantastic food, and a vibrant atmosphere. You’ll be staying in a comfortable hotel right by Copacabana Beach. During your time in Rio you’ll have 4 hours booked in with a car and private English-speaking guide. This is a great way to tick off some of the city’s best sites, as well as picking up some local insider tips on making the most of your free time in Rio. There is no set schedule, although your guide will have plenty of suggestions if you’re not sure what to do. After two nights in Rio, it’s time to head home and we’ll arrange a transfer to take you to the airport.
Accommodation
