BRAZIL

DAY 1: RIO DE JANEIRO

A valid passport is required for all American or Canadian citizens, including children, intending to visit Brazil. It is recommended that your passport be valid for at least six months beyond the date of your expected departure from the country. There have been cases where citizens were refused entry for not having the six-month validity. In addition, all Americans & Canadians are required to have a valid Brazilian Visa prior to their arrival in Brazil, and the visa must be used within 90 days of issuance. Otherwise, they will be refused entry into the country. Please ensure that you apply for your Brazilian visa at least 20 business days in advance of your trip. Processing times vary based on the number of visa applications that are in process at that specific embassy or consulate at any given time.

For your added comfort, you will have an English-speaking guide waiting for you outside of customs with a sign with your name on it. Your representative will help you to co-ordinate meeting up with your private driver and accompany you to your accommodation.

Enjoy the convenience of an early check-in at your hotel.

Transfer by car to Cosme Velho district where visitors will take a train up to the Corcovado Mountain, through the Tijuca Forest. On the top, there is a fantastic panoramic view of Rio de Janeiro in addition to the famous Christ Statue. Before return to the hotel, visit São Conrado to observe the famous hang gliders flying over the beach.

Accommodation: Arena Leme Hotel

Arena Leme offers nice beachfront accommodation in Rio de Janeiro's Leme district. The hotel has an outdoor pool and sauna; guests can enjoy a meal at the restaurant and/or have refreshing drinks at the bar. The rooms are fitted with a flat-screen TV, cable channels, safety deposit box, AM/FM alarm clock, air conditioning, internet, wi-fi, hairdryer and a telephone. There is a 24-hour front desk, concierge and room services. Also, guests can exercise in the fitness center or enjoy the choices of nightlife, beach walks and nature. Sugar Loaf is 3.2 km from Arena Leme, while Copacabana Beach is 850 metres from the property. The nearest airport is Santos Dumont Airport, 5 km from the property. 

DAY 2: RIO DE JANEIRO

This tour combines the historical highlights of downtown Rio with the modern attractions in the Porto Maravilha area, including the Olympic Boulevard. Beginning your tour in the Cinelãndia area, you will see the Municipal Theater, National Library, and the Fine Arts Museum. Transitioning from the historic sites of Rio to the newly developed Port area via the new VLT light rail system you will visit Mauá Square and here learn about the history of Rio Port and tour through new attractions, including the Olympic Boulevard and the famous Graffiti Murals by Eduardo Kobra. A quick visit to Rio’s Art Museum (MAR) will provide a panoramic view of Porto Maravilha. Next, visit Rio’s newest feature, the Museum of Tomorrow, which blends science and design to focus on sustainable cities. Return walking along the Orla Conde to the Square of November 15th (Praça XV) which provides an excellent view of the Guanabara Bay. From here you can see the ferry station, the Imperial Palace, and the Tiradentes monument. You will enjoy lunch (included) at the famous Cafeteria Colombo restaurant, a historic attraction popular with locals since opening in early 1900s. Toward the end your tour, walk back to Carioca Square in the heart of the city where you will be met by your driver for a private transfer to your hotel.

Accommodation: Arena Leme Hotel

DAY 3: RIO DE JANEIRO

Spend some time to soak up the sights, sounds and sun in spectacular Rio de Janeiro! In this vibrant city of culture and entertainment, there is no shortage of fun-filled activities to pack into your day. Have a drink in one of the many fantastic bars and cafes in Santa Teresa, Lapa or Centro barrio; a few of the city’s trendiest and most lively districts. Of course, no trip to Rio is complete without a leisurely afternoon on the shimmering beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema. Cozy up under an umbrella with a delicious drink in hand and relax under the warm sun with the sounds of breaking waves and happy locals come and go. In Rio, the only thing you’ll want for is more hours in day!

Experience Rio at night on this outing to the Rio Scenarium. A stand-out show house unique to the nightlife scene in Rio de Janeiro, and located in the most bohemian neighborhood of the city, the Lapa, the Rio Scenarium is a favorite haunt for locals and tourists alike. Encouraging the preservation of the old houses in the neighborhood, and intending to spread and rescue the musical traditions unique to Rio through its art programs, the Rio Scenarium is a truly unique establishment that has a welcoming and exciting ambiance like few other places. For guests seeking an experience that features traditional Brazilian music, the Rio Scenarium cannot be missed.

DAY 4: RIO DE JANEIRO

While the white sand beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema are well-known the world over (and as a result are consistently busy), the lesser known beaches of Barra de Guaratiba offer a calmer opportunity to enjoy Brazil’s incredible waterfront. Today, break away from the hustle and bustle of downtown Rio de Janeiro and explore this shimmering coastline, swim in the warm azure waters, and practice stand up paddle-boarding during a one-hour private lesson. Lunch at Bira de Guaratiba, an award-winning casual restaurant specializing in seafood, is also included (drinks are not included, purchased on-site). Following lunch you will enjoy a few more leisurely hours to discover Rio’s hidden beaches before being returned to your hotel in Rio de Janeiro.

Accommodation: Arena Leme Hotel

DAY 5: RIO DE JANEIRO

The tour begins at the beach of Ipanema, immortalized by the music of Tom Jobim, Girl from Ipanema. You will ride the bike path and arrive at Jardim de Alah (Allah´s Garden), where there is a channel that connects the Lagoon to the sea and separates the beaches of Ipanema and Leblon. The channel leads to Rodrigo de Freita´s Lagoon, surrounded by the neighborhoods of Rio (Lagoa, Ipanema, Leblon, Gávea and Jardim Botânico), framed by mountains and embraced by the Christ Redeemer. Rodrigo de Freita´s Lagoon impresses by its sunset and the gold reflex on the silent waters. Ride the Lagoon bike path, passing by 3 parks, featuring some of the best-equipped areas of entertainment of the city. Pass by Vasco da Gama Nautical Headquarters and the main headquarters of Flamengo, the most popular football club in Brazil. The biking tour will end at Arpoador, where you can enjoy the beautiful sunset.

Accommodation: Arena Leme Hotel

DAY 6: RIO DE JANEIRO

Enjoy the day in comfort and without the hassle of managing your luggage. Today, a late hotel check-out has been arranged ahead of late-night flight.

Meet your personal driver and guide for an airport transfer in Rio de Janeiro.

Accommodation: Depart (Int`l Airport) (standard)

Depart from International Airport. End of itinerary.