Luxury Brazil: beaches, culture & boutique stays

Guarulhos Airport - Sao Paulo

Tag 1: São Paulo

Transfer from São Paulo International Airport (GRU) to your hotel
Car Transfer: Upon arrival in São Paulo, you will be met at the airport by a friendly driver, and transferred by private service to your hotel. Estimated transfer length: 1 hour
Private transfer in luxury sedan with English speaking driver.

Sao Paulo - Vila Madalena

Tag 2: São Paulo

São Paulo no Prato Tour
Excursion: This tour takes guests to a different neighbourhood for each edition, in order for the traveller to explore the best the city has to offer in gastronomy and history combined. Your guide is an historian and chef, who will teach you the city's history through its people and its food.
In the morning, you'll visit the Pinheiros neighborhood with chef and historian, Thabata Nader. The tour will take you to the Thomie Ohtake institute, where you'll learn of the city's famed architect, and visit the exhibit on display on the day of. You'll then walk to the region's Municipal Market, which has gone through a transformation in recent years with the help of the ATA Institute (run by chef Alex Atala, of D.O.M. and Dalva & Dito fame). There, you'll get a lesson on the country's and season's produce, with Thabata and local vendors.

Vila Madalena's Urban Art & Culture Tour
Excursion: Take to the hills of the bohemian Vila Madalena neighbourhood, one of the most well-loved and recognisable areas of Sao Paulo. Learn about how this region was populated by artists in the 70s and 80s and has thus grown into one of the city's trendiest and quirkiest places for tourists and locals alike. Shop at the locally run boutiques, peruse some of the small art galleries, stop for coffee at Lá da Venda, or taste artisanal cheese at the Queijaria (cheese shop). Finally, to get a real sense of the art-fuelled atmosphere that infiltrates these streets, wander the graffiti art 'open air gallery' - the street art here is impressive and gives the area its personality.
This tour will be taken after lunch. For lunch, you'll have the option to have lunch in the neighborhood on your own, or we can book you a table at Tuju (Michelin Star), in Vila Madalena, where you'll have a three course lunch with seasonal menu.

Downtown São Paulo

Tag 3: São Paulo

Morning around the city
Excursion: This morning, take an enriching half day tour of the city, which will be solely based upon your specific interests. For the foodies, discover a whole world of Brazilian cuisine from local markets to renowned restaurants. If you’re a history buff, São Paulo has a dynamic past which can be traced through architecture and museums. The more artistically inclined can enjoy the city’s engaging alternative arts culture. And of course, despite it’s concrete jungle reputation, nature excursions are also available. As always, you can combine some of these in alignment with your curiosity and our local experts are on hand to help you decide.
Our suggestion here is the "Prédios de São Paulo" tour. Visit the city centre in the morning, on a walking tour with an architect and an art historian, to learn about the city's buildings, and the history behind the city centre's urban planning, dating back to the 16th century. Afterwards, visit Avenida Psulista, and have lunch at the Japan House's Junji Sakamoto restaurant, followed by visits to the exhibits and a drive down Av. Paulista before heading back to the hotel for a free afternoon.

Congonhas Airport - Iguaçu Airport - Iguaçu Falls

Tag 4: Foz do Iguaçu

Transfer from your hotel to São Paulo Congonhas Airport (CGH)
Car Transfer: Transfer to the city's domestic airport. Estimated journey time - 20 minutes.
Suggested flight LATAM 3251, leaving at 09:05 AM, arriving in Iguaçu at 10:38 AM.

Visit Iguaçu Falls - Brazilian Side
Excursion: The epic Iguaçu Falls are a sight to behold. Feast your eyes on the thundering torrents and breathe in the fresh mist of the water as you stand awe-struck on the Brazilian side of the falls. Not for no reason is it considered one of the greatest natural spectacles in the world: the falls are shared by the Iguazú National Park (Argentina) and Iguaçu National Park (Brazil) and make up the largest waterfall system on the planet. With 275 drops of varying heights, you will notice its distinctive stairway formation. The Brazilian side offers a wealth of walkways and viewpoints to lead you straight to the core of nature itself, alongside spectacular panoramic views. Walk along the edge of these waterfalls as the spray engulfs you, and feel even closer to Brazil’s natural splendour.
Lunch with view of falls included at Porto Canoas.

Admire Birdlife at Parque das Aves
Excursion: Enjoy a tour to this international revered bird wildlife conservation centre. Parque das Aves contains 16 hectares of Atlantic Rainforest and is home to more than 1,400 birds, more than 50% of which are rescued from trafficking, and has about 150 different species. You can get very close to many species of bird, including toucans, macaws, scarlet ibises, flamingos, Black-fronted Piping-guans, Alagoas Curassows and parrots. The walkway is around 1.5 km long and surrounded by the magical, lush Atlantic Rainforest. You'll learn about different species that are common in Brazil and the region, as well as the organization's work to preserve those that are endangered and trafficked. To relax take a break in the park restaurant with an exclusive view to the Flamingos Lake.
Here, we'd book you a "Backstage Experience" tour - you'll get a private, backstage tour of the facility, with the chance to see how the animals are taken care of and fed, if at the appropriate feeding time.

Iguaçu Falls - Iguazú Falls

Tag 5: Foz do Iguaçu - Iguazú Falls

Helicopter Tour over Iguaçu Falls
Excursion: If you're prepared for a once in a lifetime experience, don your ear protectors and take flight - with a fantastic helicopter tour over Iguaçu Falls. 'Iguacu' translates to 'big water', and it's easy to see why. These stunning falls cascade noisily into the abyss in a breathtaking staircase formation, are truly spectacular, and one of the most memorable natural spectacles one can witness. Admiring the falls from high above allows you a unique and exclusive view of the falls that you're sure to always remember.
10 minute tour over the falls.

Visit the Iguazú Falls - Argentine Side
Excursion: Having marvelled at the falls from one perspective, be further dazzled by them from another in an entirely different country: Argentina. Be exhilarated by possibly the most dramatic section of the falls: Garganta del Diablo, or the Devil’s Throat. As you tread along the walkway, prepare to be swallowed up whole by it’s cacophonous surge, and don’t forget to bring a waterproof as you’ll be a lot closer to the splash. This edge provides an almost aerial view of the waterfalls earth-shattering depths. Make sure your camera has waterproof protection if you wish to capture this. Given Iguazú National Park is notably larger than it’s Brazilian neighbour, there are even more opportunities for you to be roused by your heavenly surroundings. Peruse the options offered here, such as a jeep tour through the jungle or a boat tour into the falls from below. If you wish to take on the park alone, there are copious trails which lead to hidden spots and unique views. This tour is usually a full day - Arriving at the park at around 08-08:30, and leaving at around 16:00.
Tour includes Gran Aventura boat ride.

Iguaçu Airport - Rio De Janeiro

Tag 6: Rio de Janeiro

Transfer from your hotel to Foz do Iguaçu Airport (IGU).
Car Transfer: You will be collected from your hotel and transferred to Iguaçu Airport with plenty of time for your onward flight. Estimated travel time: 25 minutes


Flight from Foz do Iguaçu (IGU) to Rio de Janeiro (SDU)
Scheduled flight Transfer: Flight from Foz do Iguaçu to Rio de Janeiro Santos Dumont airport. Flight time is approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes.
Suggested flight is LATAM 3186 at 12:50 arriving in Rio de Janeiro 14:45

Sailing Tour in Rio de Janeiro's Guanabara Bay
Excursion: Take a break from exploring the city with a sailing tour in the Guanabara Bay at either 11 am or 3 pm (we would recommend the latter time). You'll have an experienced, English speaking skipper on board for the entire tour to point out Rio's spectacular sites. From the boat, you can relish panoramic views of Rio, the statue of Christ the Redeemer atop Corcovado Hill and get right up close to Sugarloaf mountain. You also pass by the city of Niteroi, connected to Rio by the Rio-Niteroi Bridge, where you can marvel at majestic, historic forts, São João, Lajes, and Santa Cruz. INCLUDES: includes light snacks, water, and a refreshing welcome drink on board. NOT INCLUDED: transfers. TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours
After check in and getting settled, head to the marina for a private sunset sail.

Downtown Rio De Janeiro - Sugarloaf Mountain

Tag 7: Rio de Janeiro

Rio's Downtown Tour: Christ the Redeemer and History of the City
Shared Excursion: This morning, pay a visit to the iconic statue overlooking Rio - Christ the Redeemer. An unmistakable presence, Christ the Redeemer is classified as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. The statue’s distinctive Art Deco aesthetic serves as a reminder of Rio’s rich religious and cultural history, and rises an impressive 32m into the sky. Afterwards, stop off in Rio's historic district. Learn more about the colonial period and slave trade, as well as the city's current renovations for local communities.
Towards the end of this tour, stop for lunch (not included). We recommend the "Laguiole" in the region you'll be visiting.

Cachaça Stroll in Historic Rio
Excursion: This is a prime opportunity to delve into true carioca culture. The social spirit of Rio’s centre is infectious, with many locals sitting and chatting over cachaça. This famed national drink is made from distilled sugar cane juice, and puts fire into Brazil’s national cocktail, the caipirinha! Be sure to sample a few of these on your trip. As you twist around Rio’s street corners, you will explore the traditional bars which offer up a delectable array of cachaça variations. Dip into them, sip away at them and learn how to drink like a local. TOUR LENGTH: approximate 3 hours. INCLUDES: English-Speaking Guide + Cachaça Tasting
*Optional, for clients who don't drink: Coffee Experience.

Sugarloaf, Pão de Açúcar - Afternoon Tour
Excursion: The Sugarloaf mountain is an unmistakable feature in Rio’s landscape. From dawn to dusk, its magnificent peak guarantees unparalleled 360 degree views of the city. As the sun goes down and a colourful hue is cast over Rio, gaze at the sandy fringes of Copacabana beach as they stretch out into the Atlantic and spot 'Cristo Redentor' (Christ the Redeemer) standing prominent on Mount Corcovado. The sunset vistas are arguably the most breathtaking. The first stage of the ascent will take you from Praia Vermelha to Morro da Urca by cable car. These cable-ways were originally made of wood and designed by the renowned engineer Augusto Ferreira Ramos in 1908, who did much to develop Rio’s built landscape. As you rise above the hustle and bustle of the city, the tranquillity of the mountains takes over, offering a new way of glimpsing Brazil’s vivid surroundings. Includes: Private transfer, private English speaking guide, and tickets to attraction.

Rio De Janeiro - Culture, Nature & Beaches

Tag 8: Rio de Janeiro

Free Day in Rio de Janeiro - Culture, Nature & Beaches
Excursion: Today is free for you to explore Rio de Janeiro- a city bursting with colour, culture and cachaça. Of course, there are the legendary sights: Christ the Redeemer stands tall on Mount Corcovado, the peak of the Sugarloaf guarantees jaw-dropping 360-degree views of the city and the mosaics of the Selarón steps will make you feel part of Brazil’s renowned artistic community. For the nature-seekers, Jardim Botânico is widely revered for its iconic avenue of Royal Palm trees, radiant orchid farm and distinctive architecture. Nearby is the majestic lake, Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas. Amble around it, paddle over it, or station yourself on its banks as you drink in its tranquil atmosphere or a lakeside Caipirinha. When it comes to the perfect beach spot, you’re spoilt for choice in Rio. From the vogue shores of Copacabana to the secluded bays of Prainha, it may be a struggle to pick one yourself, so our local expert is on hand with first-hand knowledge of where best to go. Of course, if the prospect of a free day is a little overwhelming, our local experts are on hand with tips, suggestions and unique tours to give you a bit more structure. These may include samba dance classes, hikes, sailing trips and more.

Morro Da Babilônia

Tag 9: Rio de Janeiro

Morro da Babilônia Tour & Gastronomy
Excursion: Located right across from Sugarloaf Mountain are two favela communities, Babilônia and Morro do Chapéu Mangueira, as well as an environmental protection area, and the APA dos Morros da Babilônia e São João. Here is where the community organization presents incredile entrepreneurial endeavors, through the "Favela Orgânica", a project born in 2011, under the leadership of Regina Tchelly, a local community member, whose objective has been to teach her neighbors about how to best make use of their food. She does this by teaching conscious consumption, alternative gastronomy, homemade composting, and how to create gardens in small spaces. The Favela Orgânica has taken its workshops to different parts of Brazil and the world, and continues to be a great example and source of inspiration for the sustainable development of urban communities in Rio de Janeiro.Today, you'll take a tour to visit this project, after a short hike, with stunning views of the Marvelous City. You'll also get the chance to prepare and treat yourself to an organic and vegetarian meal with the founder of the Favela Orgânica project.

Galeão Airport - Florianópolis Airport - Ponta Dos Ganchos

Tag 10: Florianópolis

Transfer from your hotel to Galeão Airport (GIG).
Car Transfer: Transfer from your hotel to the airport. Estimated travel time: 30 minutes to one hour, depending on traffic and hotel neighborhood.


Flight from Rio de Janeiro (GIG) to Florianópolis (FLN)
Scheduled flight Transfer: Flight from Rio to the capital of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis' international airport.
Suggested flight is LATAM 3413 leaving at 08:45 AM, arriving in Florianópolis at 10:17 AM.

Transfer from Florianópolis Airport (FLN) to your hotel
Car Transfer: Transfer from international airport to your hotel in the city or surrounding villages.

Florianópolis

Tag 11: Florianópolis

Florianópolis City Tour
Excursion: Visit the Magical Island for the day. Florianopolis is the capital of Santa Catarina and possesses some of the most stunning beaches in Brazil. Here, you have the option to do an historic walking tour, architecture tour, or one of the various nature, hiking and beach tours we offer in the city.

Florianópolis

Tag 12: Florianópolis

Free Day in Florianópolis
Excursion: Enjoy this free day to explore the city of Florianopolis, recline on one of the gorgeous beaches in the area, or use the opportunity to rest easy at your hotel. Generally the beaches at the north of Florianopolis are the most popular with tourists while there are others in the east, such as Joaquina, Mole and Moçambique that are fantastic for surfing, often drawing a younger crowd. Heading south; Campeche, Armação and Morro das Pedras are beautiful and also great for surfing.

Florianópolis

Tag 13: Florianópolis

Second free day in Florianópolis.
Excursion: Use this second day on the gorgeous island of Florianopolis however you wish. Perhaps hit the local stores to pick up some souvenirs of your stay, take advantage of your hotel facilities, or go for a stroll, relax at a coffee shop and simply watch the world go by.

Florianópolis - Florianópolis Airport - Guarulhos Airport

Tag 14:

Transfer from your hotel to Florianópolis Airport (FLN)
Car Transfer: Transfer from your accommodation on the island or surrounding villages to the international airport in Florianópolis.


Flight from Florianópolis (FLN) to São Paulo (GRU)
Scheduled flight Transfer: Flight from Florianópolis' international airport to São Paulo.
Suggested flight LATAM 3184 at 14:42 arriving in São Paulo at 15:55.