Rio, Lush Islands & Colonial Treasures

Breakfast at the hotel. It’s time to leave Paraty behind, your transfer will take you to the port of Angra, where you will connect with the ferry that will take you to Ilha Grande. Appreciate the magnificent scenery of mountains, jungle, cliffs, islands, bays and the deep blue ocean on board. After approximately 30 minutes, the ferry will arrive at the charming main town of Ilha Grande, Vila do Abraão. 

Stretching quietly along the coast, you can explore the island's beautiful main village with its picturesque church and palm trees after settling into your hotel. As cars are prohibited on the island, to preserve its natural beauty and tranquility, you will reach your hotel on foot. The rest of the day is free to explore the beautiful small beaches near Vila do Abraao, such as Praia Abraãozinho and Praia Crena, before watching the sunset over the Atlantic. Overnight stay in Ilha Grande.

Breakfast at the hotel. Today explore the incredible, unspoilt oceanic beach of Lopes Mendes. The astounding color of the Atlantic ocean contrasting with the sand will be a sight to behold. It has been featured many times in travel magazines as one of the 10 most beautiful beaches in Brazil! Arrive by boat to Praia do Pouso from where you will hike (for 30 minutes approx.) to get to the pristine beach. Enjoy a relaxed day sunbathing, swimming and lounging on the beach fringed with almond and palm trees. Overnight stay in Ilha Grande.

Note: We recommend bringing plenty of sunscreen, a towel, water and food.

Breakfast at the hotel. This morning, take the ferry back to Angra dos Reis where transportation will be waiting to take you to your hotel in Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro. Once you have settled into your hotel in Rio, why not wander into town to explore some favorite local spots. Stroll along the long boulevards by the beaches of Ipanema, Leblon and, of course Copacabana, while singing the song!

Along the way, you will find many huts selling freshly squeezed juices and refreshing coconuts while you continue to enjoy the breathtaking cityscape of Rio de Janeiro and discover why it's known as the ‘Marvelous City’! We recommend a our optional local food tasting and caipirinha experience* to make the most of your evening. Overnight stay in Rio de Janeiro.

*Optional local food tasting and caipirinha experience: This evening, your guide will pick you up from the hotel to teach you to eat and drink like a local! They will give you a taste of local life, street food and of course share a caipirinha together while telling you stories about this famous cocktail. A great experience you can’t miss!

Breakfast at the hotel. Today, embark on a fascinating tour of Rio de Janeiro! Beginning with Tijuca National Park, the largest urban forest in the world, ascend to the top of Corcovado Mountain where the statue of Christ the Redeemer stands. Enjoy the striking views of the forest below and city below, where the mountains of Rio plunge into the clear blue water. The view from Corcovado at the base of the 124-foot tall statue is simply breathtaking. 

Next, discover the heart of Rio's historic center, passing by old colonial buildings and charming cobblestone alleys. Then, head to the main sites of downtown Rio de Janeiro, such as the Sambadrome, the Selaron Stairs, the Cathedral and the Maracana Stadium (entrance fee not included). To continue getting to know this incredible city, we recommend an optional excursion to Sugarloaf Mountain*. Overnight stay in Rio de Janeiro.

* Optional Excursion to Sugar Loaf Mountain: Head for the neighborhood of Urca where one of the largest symbols of the city is located: Sugar Loaf Mountain. Travel to the top on a cable car and enjoy the spectacular views of Rio-Niterói Bridge and Corcovado Mountain. Look down on Copacabana beach, the Santa Cruz fortress and several beaches of Niterói and be amazed at the sheer beauty and diversity of the Rio skyline, and enjoy an amazing sunset.