Deep into the Amazon
[special
roundtrips]
The North or Amazonia is the largest
region of Brazil and also the largest
area of tropical rainforest in the
world, having become a worldwide synonym
of biodiversity. This exotic roundtrip
takes the tourist from the exotic towns
and floodplains at mouth of the great
Amazon River to deep into the remote
heart of the vast Amazon Jungle,
reaching destinations that are never
part of a Brazil roundtrip.
DAY 1 | BELÉM
Arrival at the airport, meet and greet
with our local bilingual guide and
transfer in a private air-conditioned
vehicle to the hotel. Overnight at
selected hotel.
DAY 2 | BELÉM
This day begins with a tour, which
starts out before sunrise and heads for
the Ilha do Papagaio (“Parrot Island”),
thus named because of the great number
of parrots and other species that gather
there to rest. As the sun appears,
thousands of parrots and other birds
leave the island for the mainland in an
unforgettable spectacle. After
witnessing this extraordinary
phenomenon, the tour continues through
the narrow creeks by motorised canoe,
during which the visitor encounters a
large variety of plant and animal
species.Another interesting feature is
the passing boat traffic carrying
caboclos - the inhabitants of the
region, who cross the river with goods
and to be sold in the city markets. For
lunch you can try some typical regional
dishes at a local restaurant (optional).
In the early afternoon you go on and
start a half day city tour. The capital
of Pará State and chief port of the
lower Amazon River, on the equator,
Belém do Pará was founded in 1615 by the
Portuguese, the city owing its
commercial importance to the opening of
the Amazon to foreign trade in the late
19th century.In many ways, Belém's
colonial architecture reflects the 17th
century architecture of Lisbon that was
a source of inspiration for the main
housing projects of the time, with
ubiquitous Portuguese ceramic tiles, or
azulejos. The tour includes visits to
the Ver-o-Peso (“Check-the-Weight”)
market, the Basílica de Nossa Senhora de
Nazaré, the Museu Emílio Goeldi and the
Museu de Arte Sacra - Brazil’s finest
museum of religious art. Stretching
along the waterfront, the Ver-o-Peso
market offers a curious combination of
fishmongers, vegetable stalls and items
for witchcraft (Macumba). On sale are
peculiar medicinal herbs derived from
rainforest plants and roots, cures for
uncommon ailments, such as crocodile
teeth, bottled snakes and three-toed
sloths, and amulets to ward off the evil
eye. The Basílica de Nossa Senhora de
Nazaré was built in 1909 on the site
where the humble rancher Plácido found
the image of Our Lady of Nazaré. In
Roman architectural style inspired in
the Basilica of St Paul in Rome and
lined with fine marble, the elaborate
altarpiece frames a tiny statue of the
Virgin. The facade has a mural depicting
the arrival of the Portuguese in Brazil,
whilst the basement contains a museum of
votive offerings. Founded in 1866, the
Emílio Goeldi Museum is a botanical,
zoological and anthropological park with
more than 2,000 species of plants and
trees, numerous Amazonian animals and
birds and an aquarium containing rare
species. This internationally renowned
museum is the oldest and most important
research institute in the Amazon. The
tour also includes visits to the Palácio
Lauro Sodré (State Museum), the former
Governor’s House; the Palácio Antônio
Lemos (Art Museum), a former palace; the
Forte do Presépio, known today as Forte
do Castelo and the Metropolitan
Cathedral, or Igreja da Sé. After this
spectacular day you can relax at your
hotel. Overnight at selected hotel. B.
DAY 3 | BELÉM / ILHA DO MARAJÓ
Pick-up at hotel in Belém and transfer
to the river port of Belém to board the
regular passenger boat to the Island of
Marajó at 06:30. Arrival at the pier of
Foz do Camará and transfer by minibus or
car to the ferry crossing of Beiradão,
where a motorized canoe is waiting for
the boat trip about 1 hour up the Camará
river to the cattle ranch Fazenda Nossa
Senhora do Carmo. Welcome juice with
home-made cakes. After check-in, a tour
through the natural grasslands on
horseback or tame water buffalo,
accompanied by Marajó cowboys, leading
to woods and ponds where wildlife can be
observed: capibaras, anacondas, wild
pigs and birds. After lunch and a short
siesta in hammocks on the veranda, a
tour by motorized canoe enters the
mangrove creeks and branches of the
Camará River to spot birds, alligators,
monkeys and sloth. After dinner,
flashlights can be used to spot
alligators on the banks of the river
near the house beneath the tropical
night sky Overnight at Fazenda Nossa
Senhora Do Carmo. B, L, D.
DAY 4 | ILHA DO MARAJÓ
After a buffet-style breakfast, another
type of excursion is offered in search
of hidden wildlife: in the dry season
(September to January) by “Rural”, a
classic multipurpose vehicle, on a
safari-like ride across the grasslands,
in the wet period (February to August)
by small canoe up the Camará River.
After lunch (try the buffalo meat and
home-made buffalo cheese), a motorised
canoe and short jungle walk will bring
visitors to an archaeological site of
the mysteriously vanished Marajoara
indian tribe, where fine examples of
their famous pottery can be found. The
rest of the afternoon is free to have a
swim, sunbath and a drink, observing the
spectacular Marajó sunset. Dinner and
overnight. B, L, D.
DAY 5 | ILHA DE MARAJÓ / BELÉM
After breakfast, another ride through
the natural grasslands in search of
wildlife. After lunch, a motorised canoe
will bring the visitors back to Beiradão,
where a vehicle is waiting for the
30-minute ride to the pier of Foz do
Câmara. Here a regular passenger boat
leaves for the port of Belém, from where
tourists have a transfer to their hotel,
arriving around 18:00. Overnight at
selected hotel. B, L.
DAY 6 | BELÉM / MANAUS
After breakfast private transfer to the
airport for the direct morning flight to
Manaus. Arrival at the airport in
Manaus. Pick-up and transfer to the
Amazon Rainforest Adventure Station, a
diferential lodge for those, who wish to
discover the Amazon off the main routes.
Situated in the primary rainforest and
more distant away from Manaus than other
lodges, the visitor will join more
wildlife and untouched rainforest.
DAY 6 – 9 | 4D/3N AMAZON RAINFOREST
ADVENTURE STATION (PRIVATE)
The Amazon Rainforest Adventure Station,
formerly Amazon Floating Lodge, is
located near the south bank of the
Amazon River on the Paraná do Mamori
River, up the Rio Juma, approximately 4
hours from Manaus. The lodge has a
unique floating structure. It consists
of a central open-air swimming module
and 12 apartments (2 with air
conditioning and 10 with fan), all with
mosquito screens, 2 single beds, 3
central showers, 3 central toilets and a
veranda with hammocks. Total capacity
for 24 travelers in double rooms. The
lodge has a bar, restaurant and
recreation area with a swimming terrace
to sunbath, read or relax in the midst
of nature. Nearby was recently built a
45m high tower, with a panorama view
over the forest canopy.
The Sapopema package includes
accomodation on full board basis, return
transfers airport / hotel / lodge,
observation from canopy tower, canoe
orientation tours, jungle hikes, fishing
trip, visit to local native ‘caboclo’
community and the meeting of the waters.
DAY 9 | AMAZON RAINFOREST ADVENTURE
STATION / MANAUS
After breakfast transfer back to Manaus
and drop-off at the selected hotel. The
afternoon can be joined for a half day
city tour. This tour includes a visit to
the Amazon Opera House, Country Market,
Floating Harbor & The Indian Museum,
observing each attraction schedules.
Overnight at selected hotel.
DAY 10 | MANAUS / TEFÉ
Pick-up for a private transfer to the
airport for the flight to your next
destination the Uacari Floating Lodge
near Tefé. Located on the banks of the
Solimões River in the remote heart of
the Amazon basin, Tefé is one of the
oldest towns in the state of Amazonas,
dating from 1686. As it is completely
surrounded by the vast Amazon forest and
lies some 663km from Manaus, this town
of 70,000 people can be reached only by
boat or plane. The Uakari Floating Lodge
offers the unique possibility of
experiencing from inside the largest
reserve of flooded rainforest in the
world, Mamirauá (1.124.000 ha). The
Mamirauá Sustainable Development
Reserve, located at the north bank of
the Rio Solimões (Amazon River), is only
accessible from the river town of Tefé.
Accomodation is on full board basis.
DAY 10 – 13 | TEFÉ (4D/3N PACKAGE
DEPARTURE ONLY ON FRIDAYS)
Day 1
– Pick-up at airport (Tefé) for a ride
to the river port of Tefé, where a
regional boat is waiting for the 2½-hour
trip to the UakariFloating Lodge, during
which some wildlife, such as dolphins,
can already be observed. A local guide
and a scientific guide will accompany
the visitor on a walk or canoe trip,
depending on the season, through the
flooded forest. Traditional knowledge
will be complemented by scientific
observation. Back at the lodge, before
dinner, the guide will explain the
importance of this reserve and the
projects that are being undertaken,
subsidized by the Brazilian government,
private companies and the Wildlife
Conservation Society. Dinner and
overnight. B, D
Day 2
– Breakfast. Visit to one of the local
communities, where one of the
inhabitants will show the visitors
around and give information about their
way of life. Lunch. At 15:30, a tour in
small canoes to observe wildlife. After
dinner, a walking tour to spot animals
like spiders, opossums and other night
animals. Overnight. B, L, D
Day 3
– Breakfast. Jungle hike through an area
where a variety of monkeys can usually
be seen, even some uakaris. Possibility
of fishing for piranhas. Lunch. At
15:30, a visit by motorized canoe to
Mamirauá Lake in search of fresh water
dolphins, hoatzins and, after sunset,
alligators. Dinner at 20:00. Whenever
possible, scientists working at the
reserve, are invited to inform the
visitors about their research programs.
Overnight. B, L, D
Day 4
– To enjoy your last morning at the
Reserve, it is planned a trip by canoe
at 06:30am. After the breakfast you are
be ready to return to Tefé in 1½ hours
by speedboat, where you catch the flight
back to Manaus. B
DAY 13 | MANAUS
After arrival in the early afternoon in
Manaus a private transfer will take you
from the airport to the hotel. Rest of
the day is free for leisure. Overnight
at selected hotel. B
DAY 14 | MANAUS
Transfer to the airport for flight to
next destination or to São Paulo / Rio
de Janeiro, where you will wait for your
international return flight. B
INCLUDED:
3 nights Belém at selected hotel.
2 nights Ilha do Marajó at selected
hotel.
3 nights Amazon Rainforest Adventure
Station.
2 nights Manaus at selected hotel.
3 nights at Uacari Floating Lodge
Transfers as specified in
air-conditioned vehicles and boats.
All excursions and packages listed above
with English speaking guides.
Breakfast plus all meals as specified.
Hotel taxes and service charges.
NOT INCLUDED:
All domestic and long haul flights,
airport taxes etc.
All meals and excursions not listed
above
Excursions not listed above;
The itinerary is available with
different category hotels and are
selected on basis of customer
preference.
Due to the vastness of the country, the
best way to visit Brazil is by using a
"Visit Brazil Air Pass" which allows you
to fly between cities.
PLEASE NOTE: This itinerary program is
presented as LAND ONLY (no airfare is
included). All tour programs are subject
to your acceptance of our Terms and
Conditions on reservation. Please review
Terms & Conditions
Southern
Highlights
[special roundtrips]
This unforgettable two-week roundtrip
reveals some of Southeast Brazil’s most
famous natural wonders: from crossing
the majestic Serra do Mar mountain range
by train to rafting beneath one of the
world’s largest and most impressive
cataracts: the iguassu Falls. The
tourist will also be shown some of
Brazil’s best kept natural secrets: the
deep Itaimbezinho canyon and the
historical coastal town of Paraty with
its archipelagos of densely forested
islands, crystal-clear waters and
secluded white, sandy beaches.
IGUASSU FALLS
iguassu means “great river” in the
indigenous Guarani language and there
could hardly be a more fitting name.
After rising in the Brazilian highlands
near Curitiba, the iguassu river runs
westward on a 1,100km journey, receiving
some 30 tributaries on its course to the
plateau where, just before merging with
the great Paraná river, it plunges
thunderously over an 80m high cliff in
virgin forest. The iguassu falls are the
most spectacular in South America. A
total of 275 falls cascade over a
precipice that is 3km wide, sending up
an endless wall of spray laced with
rainbows. iguassu is also the meeting
point of three countries: Brazil,
Argentina and Paraguay. Straddling the
iguassu River, the twin National Parks
of Foz do iguassu were set up to
preserve the region’s precious
rainforest environment.
DAY 1 | IGUASSU FALLS
On arrival at the airport,
meet-and-greet with our local bilingual
guide and transfer in private
air-conditioned vehicle to the hotel.
Depending on the time of arrival, an
afternoon visit to the Argentinean side
of the iguassu Falls may be possible.
The excursion offers lovely views over
the iguassu Canyon on the way to the
National Park. The upper walkways are
visited, allowing a birds-eye view of
the falls and adjoining rainforest. A
highlight of this trip is a visit to a
suspended platform at the edge of The
Devil’s Throat. Overnight at selected
hotel.
DAY 2 | IGUASSU FALLS
Morning visit to the Brazilian side of
the iguassu Falls: The excursion begins
at the iguassu National Park Visitors’
Centre with a drive through the park’s
lush sub-tropical vegetation. Near the
falls, visitors leave the vehicle and
proceed on foot along a trail that leads
into the canyon and a spectacular
panoramic viewpoint over the falls. The
awe-inspiring trip along a walkway,
which takes visitors right into the
Devil's Throat, leads to a glass
elevator which transports them up the
cliff-face for a view of the upper
falls. The iguassu National Park makes
up the most significant remnant of
rainforest in the southern cone, which
together with the Falls has been
declared a National Heritage site by
UNESCO. In the afternoon, white
water-rafting below the iguassu Falls
(optional): The adventure takes visitors
to the bank of the River iguassu on
foot, a specially-equipped motorboat
then taking visitors to the falls. It’s
a thrilling sensation, bringing the
adventurous tourist close to the
thundering waters. As the boat
negotiates the rough waters and
penetrates the mist of the falls,
passengers should be prepared to get
wet. Overnight at selected hotel.
DAY 3 | IGUASSU FALLS
Full-day tour of the ruins of the Jesuit
missions: This excursion takes tourists
250 kilometres from the iguassu Falls to
the region of “The Missions”, the scene
of a fascinating but tragic episode in
history retold in a film of the same
name. The road into the region winds
through the picturesque Argentine
countryside of tea plantations and
exceptionally well preserved subtropical
rainforest, an open-cast gemstone mine
being visited en route. It was in this
region that, during the 17th century,
the Jesuits founded the Guarani
Republic, an ill-fated experiment in
creating a utopian society in South
America. Tragically, the brutal policies
of colonial Spain and Portugal condemned
the Guarani Republic to destruction,
many lives being lost. A visit will be
made to the ruins of San Ignacio, which
are among the most well preserved of
this period, retaining their baroque
features and innumerable stone
sculptures. An ageing ghost town of
communal houses, churches and buildings
overgrown by the jungle stands in mute
testimony to the grandeur of the Guarani
dream. In the evening will be the option
to participate at a dinner and musical
show that combines Broadway with
folklore and typical dances,
demonstrating the exuberant culture of
Argentina, Brazil and Paraguay.
Overnight at selected hotel.
DAY 04 | IGUASSU FALLS - PORTO ALEGRE (
ITAIMBEZINHO CANYON)
In the morning, there is a visit to the
Bird Park (optional), which is located
at the entrance of the iguassu National
Park and is fully integrated with its
natural surroundings. The enclosures
house more than 900 birds and 150
species. During the walk in the
beautiful Mata Atlantica (Atlantic
Rainforest) the visitor has the
opportunity to interact with many
spectacular native and exotic bird
species, some of which are endangered.
Toucans swoop low over tourists
wandering along the special paths and,
besides the different bird species,
snakes, caimans, marmosets and beautiful
butterflies can be seen. Afternoon
transfer along a scenic route to the
airport for the short flight to Porto
Alegre. Meet and greet with a local
guide and drop-off at the hotel. In the
evening, a dazzling night tour of Porto
Alegre, the restaurants, bars and shows
offering many ways of enjoying this
vibrant city. After a panoramic view of
Porto Alegre’s night skyline, a generous
grill dinner and folklore show entertain
tourists. Overnight at selected hotel.
PORTO ALEGRE & ITAIMBEZINHO CANYON
Porto Alegre, Brazil's sixth largest
city is the country's main political and
commercial centre south of São Paulo.
Porto Alegre is the capital of Rio
Grande do Sul, the southernmost state of
Brazil, bordering on Uruguay and
Argentina, with which it shares several
cultural features. Creeping along the
eastern border of Rio Grande do Sul and
Santa Catarina, the majestic
Itaimbezinho canyon is one of Brazil's
largest and most impressive canyons. The
canyon's lush vegetation and rugged
scenery is protected deep in the heart
of the Aparados da Serra National Park (PNAS).
A towering plateau sits as a giant
trophy on the state’s eastern boundary
and its imposing cliffs plunge into
abysses of densely forested canyons and
lowlands. The name "Aparados da Serra"
means “rugged transition between the
high grassland plateau region and the
coastal plain region”.
DAY 05 | PORTO ALEGRE (ITAIMBEZINHO
CANYON)
Full-day excursion to the Itaimbezinho
canyon in the Aparados da Serra National
Park: The excursion to this challenging
but spectacularly beautiful
geomorphologic region starts from Porto
Alegre and passes through the town of
Taguara, winding up onto the high Campos
de Serra Plateau, where the tourist is
rewarded with a spectacular panoramic
view over the Itaimbezinho canyon. Along
the way, the tour stops at various
viewpoints and sites of interest. A stop
is also made for a typical "Gaucho
lunch" in São Francisco de Paulo. After
lunch, the excursion continues for an
afternoon sightseeing tour and [easy]
hikes along trails through the majestic
landscape of the National Park before
returning to Porto Alegre. Overnight at
selected hotel.
DAY 06 | PORTO ALEGRE
Full-day tour of Gramado and Canela
(optional): Gramado is a small tourist
town in the mountainous Germanic region
known as the Serra Gaúcha, in Rio Grande
do Sul. The majority of the town’s
population is German-Brazilian. Famous
for its hydrangeas, chocolate factory
and occasional snow, Gramado and its
nearby sister city Canela are definitely
two towns well worth a visit. In Gramado,
the highlights include the Knorr Park -
one of Gramado's wealthier
neighbourhoods - and the Black Lake.
Visitors will have plenty of
opportunities to buy crafts and
Gramado's main product - chocolate. From
here, the tour proceeds to Canela,
another major tourist attraction located
high up in the Gaúcha mountain range.
Having become popular for its
neighbouring Parque do Caracol nature
reserve and waterfalls, Canela offers
excellent opportunities for ecotourism
and adventure tourism such as climbing
and whitewater rafting. In Canela
itself, the main tourist attractions
include Lourdes Church. Overnight at
hotel.
DAY 07 | PORTO ALEGRE / CURITIBA
Check-out of hotel and transfer for the
short flight to Curitiba. Arrival and
transfer to hotel. The rest of the
afternoon is free for leisure. In the
evening, a city tour combined with a
dinner in Santa Felicidade. A night tour
is perhaps one of the best ways to
explore this dynamic city, combining a
range of the cultural and historical
highlights with a spectacular dinner.
Over the past 65 years, Curitiba has
grown rapidly from a town with a
population of 140,000 to a vibrant city
of more than 1½ million residents.
Modernisation has managed to keep pace
with this fast population growth, whilst
at the same time preserving the city’s
historical heritage. The tour starts
with a visit to the brightly lit
Botanical Gardens and then proceeds to
the Ópera de Arame, decorated with
peculiar metallic structures
characteristic of Curitiba's modern
architecture. One of the most attractive
parks in town is certainly Parque Tanguá,
decorated with colourful flower gardens,
cascades and illuminated ponds and
fountains. After a brief stop at
Brazil's first university (The Federal
University of Paraná), the tour heads
for Santa Felicidade, the old Italian
quarter 8km from the city centre, famous
for its fine food, grill restaurants and
delicious wines. Dinner will be served
at one of these quality restaurants,
visitors returning to their hotels
through cobbled streets lined by
Curitiba's historical buildings.
Overnight at selected hotel.
DAY 08 | CURITIBA
A train takes tourists safely up into
the Serra do Mar for an unforgettable
2½-hour journey over mountain passes,
across valleys and through tunnels to
Morretes. After a short tour of this
small town, the excursion continues by
bus through the vast Serra do Mar
Mountain range to the city of Antonina,
where the historical centre, municipal
theatre and Pilar Church are among the
sites visited. From this privileged
location, tourists are rewarded with
panoramic views of the impressive
Antonina bay. The bus then returns to
Morretes for a "Barreado" lunch (a
traditional coastal dish with fish,
shrimp and banana rum). The return trip
to Curitiba crosses the Serra da
Graciosa, another rugged mountain range
that has been officially declared an
environmental protection area. Overnight
at hotel in Curitiba.
DAY 09 | CURITIBA
A full-day guided excursion to the
Itajaí Valley (optional) leaves Curitiba
for a scenic drive to Joinville, founded
in 1852 and known as the city of
princes, having been home to Prince
François Ferdinand Phillipe, Prince of
Joinville and son of Louis Phillipe,
King of France. Although German
influences have since prevailed, it is
to this diverse colonial history that
Joinville owes its historical and
cultural wealth. A visit is also made to
Expoville to see the São Francisco
Xavier Church, the Immigration Museum,
Palmeiras Street and the city centre.
The excursion’s next stop is Blumenau,
also colonised by Germans and famous for
its festivities and tradition in crystal
jewellery and ornaments. Highlights
include the PROEB Events Pavilion (the
venue for the annual beer festival) and
the Church of Saint Paul the Apostle,
lunch being served at one of a choice of
excellent restaurants in the district.
Balneário Camboríu, the next attraction,
is the largest tourist resort on the
southern coastal plains. This region,
also known as the Pearl of The South,
has several beauty spots such as the
"Morro do Cristo Luz" and a score of
magnificent beaches. Located at the
mouth of the Itajaí-Açu River, the city
of Portuária is the gateway to the
climax of the tour: the Itajaí valley.
Amongst the sites visited in Portuária
are the port of Itajaí and the
Santíssimo Sacramento Church. Overnight
at hotel.
DAY 10 | CURITIBA / PARATY
Morning transfer to the airport for the
short flight to São Paulo, where
visitors are picked up at the airport
for the long but very scenic drive along
the coast to the historical town of
Paraty. Late afternoon arrival at the
hotel, with an evening free for leisure
after the long trip. Overnight at
selected hotel.
DAY 11 | PARATY
After breakfast, visitors are picked up
from the hotel and taken to the harbour
to board a large schooner, which sets
sail and heads to an archipelago of
densely forested islands, crystal-clear
waters and secluded white beaches.
Having arrived at this paradise, the
schooner makes three one-hour stops for
sunbathing, swimming and snorkelling in
the emerald-green waters. Amongst the
islands visited are Comprida, Algodão,
Cotia and Praia Vermelha. Late afternoon
arrival back at the port. Overnight at
hotel.
DAY | PARATY / RIO DE JANEIRO
Morning at leisure in Paraty or on the
beach. In the afternoon, transfer to Rio
de Janeiro along the Costa Verde or
Green Coast, a fitting name for this
spectacular region where the
forest-covered mountains of Serra do Mar
march down to the sea, forming numerous
bays and islands. The largest is Ilha
Grande, a tropical paradise once
favoured by pirates and abounding with
exotic wildlife, hidden beaches and the
ruins of an old prison. After a late
afternoon arrival and check-in, there
will be some free time to relax around
the hotel and beachfront following the
long journey. In the evening, there will
be a delicious grill dinner, followed by
a fantastic show with authentic samba to
folklore and rhythms such as capoeira,
lambada and even a taste of Carnival
with samba school drummers and dancers
in lavish costume presenting the best of
Brazil in alluring, glittering shows
(optional). Overnight at selected hotel
in Rio.
RIO DE JANEIRO
With a dreamlike beauty that exceeds
even the greatest of expectations, Rio
is a city that has to be seen to be
believed. From its two famed peaks, the
Sugar Loaf and Corcovado Mountain, atop
which stands the statue of Christ the
Redeemer with outstretched arms, Rio de
Janeiro is truly “The Wondrous City”,
her spectacular landforms embracing
sandy beaches, glittering bays, fine
residential districts and towering
forest-covered mountains. The landscape
is so dramatic that even the largest
areas of modern high-rise are still
dwarfed by the overwhelming grandeur of
numerous peaks and the largest urban
tropical forest in the world, itself a
monument to environmental preservation.
DAY 13 | RIO DE JANEIRO
Designed for those who have a full day
available and wish to visit both of
Rio’s main attractions, this tour is
basically a combination of the City Tour
with The Sugarloaf plus Corcovado with
Maracanã Stadium and the Sambódromo. The
first stage of the tour takes in a
number of sites of interest in downtown
Rio de Janeiro, namely the contemporary
Metropolitan Cathedral, with its vast
stained-glass windows and Aterro do
Flamengo, a calm, spacious park with
lawns and blossoming trees, offering
lovely views of Rio and The Sugarloaf.
The tour then proceeds through the old
Urca neighborhood towards the Sugarloaf,
where a cable-car starts the steep,
exhilarating 215m climb up Morro da Urca.
From here, the cable-car travels high
above the rugged, vegetated terrain to
the Sugarloaf’s 395m summit. Visitors
can enjoy wonderful panoramic views over
Rio de Janeiro from the top, sunsets
being particularly spectacular. Perched
atop the Corcovado (Hunchback) Mountain
at an altitude of 710m, the statue of
Christ the Redeemer is certainly one of
the world's best-known and most-visited
monuments. Clad with a soapstone mosaic,
the statue is also one of Rio's finest
Art Nouveau monuments and at night
becomes a shining landmark visible from
all over the city. From the top there
are breathtaking views of Copacabana,
Ipanema, Leblon, the Botanical Gardens,
Jockey Club and Rodrigo Freitas Lagoon.
A rack railway takes the visitor up to
the foot of the statue, the train
leaving the Cosme Velho district and
climbing the steep slopes of Tijuca
Forest. Located around the base of
Corcovado and with many springs and
waterfalls, this dense forest was
proclaimed a National Park in the early
sixties. After descending, the tour
stops at Mário Filho Stadium, known
worldwide as Maracanã, and the
Sambódromo, designed by Oscar Niemeyer
and the stage for the largest and most
flamboyant carnival celebrations in
Brazil. The tour includes a delicious
lunch at a steak house. Overnight at
hotel.
DAY 14 | BACK HOME
Depending on the flight departure time,
there will be some free time in Rio de
Janeiro. Transfer to Rio de Janeiro
Airport for the flight back home.
INCLUDED:
iguassu Falls 3 nights at selected
hotel.
Porto Alegre (Itaimbezinho Canyon) 3
nights at selected hotel
Curitiba 3 nights at selected hotel
Paraty 2 nights at selected hotel
Rio de Janeiro 2 nights at selected
hotel
Transfers as specified in
air-conditioned vehicles.
All excursions and packages listed above
with English-speaking guides
Breakfast plus all meals as specified.
Hotel taxes and service charges.
NOT INCLUDED:
All domestic and long-haul flights,
airport taxes etc.
All meals and excursions not listed
above
The itinerary is available with
different categories of hotel selected
on the basis of customer preference.
Bird Watching
[special roundtrips]
Combining Brazil’s natural and cultural
highlights with an active bird watching
program, this unforgettable roundtrip
will inspire amateur and highly
experienced bird enthusiasts alike.
Toucans, macaws and the majestic Tuiuiu
stork are just some of Brazil’s
strikingly colourful bird species
awaiting the enthusiast.
DAY 1 | RIO DE JANEIRO
Arrival in Rio.
Airport meet and greet, followed by
guided transfer to the hotel. Overnight
at selected hotel.
DAY 2 | RIO DE JANEIRO
Designed for those who have a full day
available and wish to visit two of Rio’s
main attractions, this tour includes
both Sugarloaf and Mountain. The first
stage of the tour takes in a number of
sites of interest in downtown Rio de
Janeiro, namely the contemporary
Metropolitan Cathedral, with its vast
stained-glass windows and Aterro do
Flamengo, a calm, spacious park with
lawns and blossoming trees, offering
lovely views of Rio and The Sugarloaf.
The tour then proceeds through the old
Urca neighborhood towards the Sugarloaf,
where a cable-car starts the steep,
exhilarating 215m climb up Morro da Urca.
From here, the cable-car travels high
above the rugged, vegetated terrain to
the Sugarloaf’s 395m summit. Visitors
can enjoy wonderful panoramic views over
Rio de Janeiro from the top, sunsets
being particularly spectacular. After a
lunch, the tour continues on to the
Corcovado. Perched atop the Corcovado
(Hunchback) Mountain at an altitude of
710m, the statue of Christ the Redeemer
is certainly one of the world's
best-known and most-visited monuments.
Clad with a soapstone mosaic, the statue
is also one of Rio's finest Art Nouveau
monuments and at night becomes a shining
landmark visible from all over the city.
From the top there are breathtaking
views of Copacabana, Ipanema, Leblon,
the Botanical Gardens, Jockey Club and
Rodrigo Freitas Lagoon. A rack railway
takes the visitor up to the foot of the
statue, the train leaving the Cosme
Velho district and climbing the steep
slopes of Tijuca Forest. Located around
the base of Corcovado and with many
springs and waterfalls, this dense
forest was proclaimed a National Park in
the early sixties. Overnight at selected
hotel.
DAY 3 | ITATIAIA
Pick-up at the hotel and departure to
the Itatiaia National Park, located in
the southwestern part of Rio de Janeiro
State, between the borders with São
Paulo and Minas Gerais States in the
Mantiqueira Mountain range, 175 km from
Rio de Janeiro and 250 km from São
Paulo. The park was founded in 1937 and
is the oldest Serra dos Orgaos /Itatiaia
national park in Brazil, covering an
area of 137 square kilometres. The park
comprises beautiful springs, creeks,
waterfalls, primary forest and at least
1,200 species of animal life including
birds, mammals and reptiles. The area is
excellent for climbing, with peaks such
as the Pico das Agulhas Negras, the
highest in Rio de Janeiro state
(2,787m), and the Pico da Prateleira
(2,540), trekking along numerous trails
and birdwatching. It is said that, at a
certain point, with clear weather, it is
possible to see the cities of Rio de
Janeiro and São Paulo at the same time.
Please note that the temperatures can be
fairly low, especially in the winter
months. Overnight at selected hotel.
DAY 4 | ITATIAIA
Full day trekking and bird watching on
the lower trails of the park, joining
the biome Mata Atlântica, characterized
for its big biologic diversity and high
endemic degrees. Bird watching, crystal
waterfalls and an observation platform
are the principal attractions. A
trekking to the peak of “Três Picos”
(1.662 meters) will be done. Depending
on visitors’ preferences and physical
fitness, the expert guide can help
choose from a variety of trails.
Overnight at selected hotel.
DAY 5 | CUIABÁ
Morning transfer to airport for flight
to Cuiabá, gateway to the Pantanal.
Arrival and transfer to the hotel.
Overnight at selected hotel.
DAY 6 - 12 | PANTANAL(we
have selected the Araras lodge and
Ecolodge Park as examples)
Pick-up from hotel and transfer to the
Pantanal for 4 nights at Araras lodge
followed by 2 nights in Park Ecolodge.
Mato Grosso, with its three ecosystems,
concentrates an enormous variety of
birds. With an excellent structure of
access and support, with a body of
specialized guides equipped with
telescopes, birdsong recorders and field
guide books, the state thus offers the
ideal environments for guided bird
watching. The pantanal is a vast wetland
area in western Brazil, which cuts
across the states of Mato Grosso and
Mato Grosso do Sul (as well as western
Brazil and northeastern Paraguay), is
one of the world's great wildlife
reserves. Because of the veldt-like open
land, it is also the best place to see
wildlife in Brazil. 650 species of
birds, among which are storks (including
the stately Tuiuiu or Jabiru stork),
egrets, herons, coots, ducks and ibises,
can be observed in the region. Animal
life is represented by, among other
species, alligators, jaguar, otters,
emus, boa constrictors and monkeys. The
lodges offer rooms with ceiling fans,
mosquito nets, private facilities with
hot and cold water. The lodges also have
a bar, swimming pool and a tree-top
lookout. The lodges provide excellent
structure of access and support, with a
body of specialized guides equipped with
telescopes, birdsong recorders,
fieldbooks and vehicles for daily bird
watching excursions. All meals included.
DAY 12 - 19 | ALTA FLORESTA(we
have selected the Cristalino Jungle
Lodge as example)
Transfer to airport for flight to the
Cristalino Jungle lodge in the southern
reaches of the Amazon Rainforest, one of
the most rewarding destinations for
watching the Amazon’s birds with more
than 570 species, many of which endemic
to the region, others yet to be
described. The package includes 2 nights
at Floresta Amazônica hotel and 5 nights
at Cristalino lodge in VIP bungalows.
Alta Floresta is considered by many
ornithologists as one of the most
diverse destinations for bird watching
in the entire Amazon. With a bird list
of 570+ species and new species found
every year, the region of Alta Floresta
and Cristalino River Basin have been
visited by leading ornithologists and
birders from all over the world. First
visited by Ted Parker and Mort and
Phyllis Isler in 1989, the region has
attracted the visits of Dr. Yürgen
Haffer, Dr. Robert Ridgley, Guy Tudor,
Dr. Kevin Zimmer, and Bret Whitney to
mention a few. Due to the barrier effect
of rivers like the Madera, Xingu and
Teles Pires which inhibit the dispersion
of some species, the Cristalino Reserve
has a high incidence of endemism.
Differing soil types from the drainages
of the " White water" Rio Teles Pires
and the "Black water" Rio Cristalino
enhance the overall diversity of flora
and fauna. Clients can choose from a set
of trails with different habitats, go by
boat on the river in search of
Red-throated Piping Guan, Razor-billed
and Bare-faced Curassow or they can
relax in the Lodge clearing where many
species of toucan, macaw, parrots,
cotinga, barbet, trogon, and other
frugivores visit the Cecropia trees for
their tasty fruit. In addition to the
Cristalino Lodge, the Hotel Floresta
Amazonica, which is located in a 100
acre fragment of primary forest in the
center of the city of Alta Floresta, has
unique attractions not to be missed.
Visitors often spend a night at the
Hotel upon arrival and before departure
home. Endemics such as Crimson-bellied
Parakeet, Black-girdled Barbet and
Cryptic Forest Falcon as well as
rarities such as Rufous-necked and
Collared Puffbird are all found within 5
minutes walk of the breakfast buffet.
All meals included.
DAY 19 | RIO DE JANEIRO
After lunch transport from the Floresta
Amazônica Hotel to the airport for
flight to Rio de Janeiro. Arrival at
airport in Rio, meet and greet and
transfer to the hotel. Overnight at
selected hotel.
DAY 20 | RIO DE JANEIRO
Day for leisure in Rio de Janeiro.
Overnight at selected hotel.
DAY 21 | RIO DE JANEIRO
After breakfast transfer to the airport
for return flight to Europe.
INCLUDED:
Rio de Janeiro 2 nights at selected
hotel
Itatiaia 2 nights at selected hotel
Cuiabá 1 night at selected hotel
Pantanal 6 nights at selected lodge
Alta Floresta 7 nights at selected lodge
Rio de Janeiro 2 nights at selected
lodge
Transfers as specified in
air-conditioned vehicles
All excursions and packages listed above
with English-speaking guides
Hotel taxes and service charges
Breakfast plus all meals as specified.
NOT INCLUDED:
All domestic and long-haul flights,
airport taxes etc.
All meals and excursions not listed
above
The itinerary is available with
different categories of hotel selected
on the basis of customer preference.
Due to the vastness of the country, the
best way to visit Brazil is by using a
"Visit Brazil Air Pass" which allows you
to fly between cities.
PLEASE NOTE: This itinerary program is
presented as LAND ONLY (no airfare is
included). All tour programs are subject
to your acceptance of our Terms and
Conditions on reservation. Please review
Terms & Conditions
The Best of Wildlife in the Amazon &
Pantanal
[special roundtrips]
This itinerary presents the most
beautiful secrets of wildlife in the
Amazon and Pantanal, a perfect
comination of the best, tropical flora
and fauna in Brazil and Southamerica has
to offer. The tour is possible without
being obligated to travel as backpacker
and to use, in quality and reliability
limited, public transportation on road
and water.
DAY 1 | MANAUS
Arrival in Manaus and transfer to the
hotel. Time to relax after the long
flights. In the afternoon you can visit
the Amazon Opera House. We can also
offer an optional half day city tour.
Overnight at Tropical Manaus Eco Resort.
DAY 2 | MANAUS / ANAVILHANAS LODGE
In the morning you will be picked up for
your first wildlife destination – the
Anavilhanas Lodge.
DAY 2 - 6 | ANAVILHANAS LODGE 5D/4N
About 150 km northwest of Manaus, the
Rio Negro riversystem widens out to a
staggering 20km from bank to bank,
between which appears a hidden paradise
of over 400 islands, each adorned with a
thick rainforest canopy and seasonal
river beaches. Together they form the
Anavilhanas archipelago, one of the
Amazon’s richest biodiversity hotspots,
which provides shelter for countless
numbers of birds, tree-dwelling animals
and aquatic wildlife, the most
remarkable of which is the pink river
dolphin.
Day 1-08:00
Pick-up from hotel in Manaus, crossing
the Rio Negro and transfer to lodge in
air-conditioned van. Arrival, welcome
drink, accommodation and introduction to
the lodge. After lunch, a tour of the
Anavilhanas archipelago in a regional
boat. Dinner and evening
alligator-spotting tour. Overnight.
Day 2-
07:00 Breakfast. Morning forest walk,
returning to the lodge for lunch.
Afternoon visit to see the pink river
dolphins and go piranha fishing. Dinner
and evening lecture about the region,
its environment & people.
Day 3-Early
morning boat tour to see the sunrise and
awakening of the forest. Return to lodge
for breakfast. Visit to arts & craft
shop at Novo Airão. Lunch. Afternoon
visit to the caboclos community village
Tiririca. Dinner and evening free to
enjoy the pool, library, games area, or
simply relax in a hammock on your
private veranda.
Day 4-Free
time, optional archery course. Lunch.
Afternoon canoe trip through flooded
forest ecosystems and visit to the sandy
river beaches of the Rio Negro. Dinner.
Day 5-Breakfast.
Morning transfer back to the airport of
Manaus. Drop-off at about 11:30.
DAY 6 | MANAUS / CUIABÁ
From Manaus you take a flight to your
next destination – Cuiabá. After arrival
at the airport in Cuiabá transfer to the
hotel Amazon Plaza. Overnight.
DAY 7 - 11 | TRANSPANTANEIRA JAGUAR
PACKAGE 5D/4N
DAY 01-Reception
at the hotel and immediate departure to
the Pantanal on paved road to Poconé
gateway to the Pantanal Matogrossense.
Continuation along Transpantaneira
dirt-road, with ample opportunity to
observe the rich fauna and flora the
region has to offer. Arrival and
accommodation in the Puma Lodge.
DAY 02-After
breakfast, ecological trek in the nearby
area, with the opportunity to observe
the local fauna and flora. Return to
lodge for lunch. After lunch, departure
to Porto Jofre for a boat trip with the
possibility to see jaguars alongside the
river. During return by Transpantaneira
nocturnal observation of animals, return
to lodge, dinner and overnight stay.
DAY 03-Breakfast,
after tour in the Transpantaneira with
departure to Rio Claro lodge. Arrival,
accommodation and lunch. Afternoon tour
with motorized canoe. Return to lodge
and dinner and overnight stay.
DAY 04-Breakfast,
horseback ride, lunch, afternoon
ecological trek in the nearby area,
return to dinner and overnight stay.
DAY 05
Breakfast return to Cuiabá Airport in
time to connection with departure
flight.
DAY 11 | RIO CLARO / CUIABÁ / ALTA
FLORESTA / CRISTALINO JUNGLE LODGE
After arrival at the airport from Cuiabá
flight to Alta Floresta.
DAY 11 -14 | CRISTALINO JUNGLE LODGE
(ALTA FLORESTA) 4D/3N
Pick-up at the airport from Alta
Floresta and a 1.5 hour transfer by car
and a 1.5 hour boat ride will take you
to this hidden lodge in the middle of a
private rainforest reserve, alowing
visitors to have a great immersion in
this ecosystem. The pristine Cristalino
River, with clean and beautiful water,
lies just in front of the lodge. This
region is recognized as an important
area of the Amazon in terms of
biodiversity. It is a destination for
nature lovers of all types, offering
activities for people who want to see
wildlife in its natural habitat. There
are three types of programs offered by
the lodge:
BIRDWATCHING
Cristalino is a premier destination for
bird lovers with a multitude of
opportunities for observing,
photographing, and learning about the
amazing Southern Amazon Birds.
ECOTOURISM
These programs are designed for nature
lovers seeking a memorable experience in
the Amazon. Participants will learn
about the wildlife—including mammals,
trees, butterflies, reptiles and
flowers—and its importance.
BUTTERFLY OBSERVATION
These programs are focused on observing
the vast number of butterflies and
skippers that inhabit this region. The
activities in each of these programs may
include: hiking, canoeing, swimming,
boat trips, tree house, canopy tower,
rappel & rope course, camping.
DAY 14 | CRISTALINO JUNGLE LODGE / ALTA
FLORESTA
Transfer back to Alta Floresta for
return flight to Cuiabá, where you can
spend one more night or take the next
flight to São Paulo. End of the tour.
INCLUDED:
1 night Manaus at Tropical Manaus Eco
Resort.
B
4 nights Anavilhanas Lodge. FAP
1 night Cuiabá at hotel Amazon Plaza.
B
4 nights Transpantaneira Jaguar Package
(2N Puma Loge, 2N Rio Claro).
FAP
3 nights Cristalino Jungle Lodge. FAP
Transfers as specified in
air-conditioned vehicles and boats.
All excursions and packages listed above
with English speaking guides.
Breakfast plus all meals as specified.
Hotel taxes and service charges.
NOT INCLUDED:
All domestic and long haul flights,
airport taxes etc.
All meals and excursions not listed
above
The itinerary is available with
different category hotels and are
selected on basis of customer
preference.
PLEASE NOTE: This itinerary program is
presented as LAND ONLY (no airfare is
included). All tour programs are subject
to your acceptance of our Terms and
Conditions on reservation. Please review
Terms & Conditions
|
