Expedition Details

Experience some of Brazil's most legendary sights, from the roaring falls of Iguaçu to the summit of Sugarloaf Mountain. Approach Iguaçu Falls from both the Brazilian and the Argentinean sides, and delve into the Pantanal, the world's largest wetlands area. Then stay on Copacabana Beach and immerse yourself in Brazilian culture during two days in Rio de Janeiro.

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Trip Highlights

• Witness the power of Iguaçu Falls close up on a boat ride into the spray.
• Spot spectacled caimans, tapirs, monkeys, and colorful birds on hikes in Iguaçu National Park and the Pantanal—both UNESCO World Heritage sites.
• Explore the Pantanal on a full-day canoe excursion, and enjoy a Brazilian-style barbecue on the riverbank.
• Take in incredible views of Rio de Janeiro from the base of the iconic "Christ the Redeemer" statue.

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Itinerary - 10 Days

Days 1 & 2 — U.S./Iguaçu National Park, Brazil

Depart on an overnight flight to Foz do Iguaçu, located on Brazil's southern border with Argentina. Settle into our colonial-style hotel, the only hotel located within Brazil's Iguaçu National Park. Take advantage of a free afternoon to relax in the tropical gardens or by the pool, or go on a short walk for a first glimpse of splendid Iguaçu Falls—a UNESCO World Heritage site. Meet the group for a welcome dinner this evening.
Hotel das Cataratas (D)

Day 3 — Iguaçu Falls

Tumbling as far as 269 feet in a series of 275 cascades that stretch more than a mile and a half in the forests of Brazil and Argentina, Iguaçu Falls is one of the world's most magnificent natural phenomena. Spend the morning on the Argentinean side of the falls, hiking to various viewing platforms for different perspectives of this incredible display of thundering water. Then approach the falls from the river, gliding into the glittering mists aboard the Gran Aventura, a motorized rubber boat. After lunch, return to the hotel and enjoy an afternoon at leisure.
Hotel das Cataratas (B,L)

Day 4 — Iguaçu Falls/Cuiabá/Pantanal

This morning, fly to Cuiabá, the gateway to the northern Pantanal, a World Heritage site. Considered the world's largest wetlands area, the Pantanal covers approximately 57,900 square miles in the upper Paraguay River Basin. The region teems with wildlife—harboring an estimated 100 mammal species, 250 fish species, 80 reptile species, and 700 species of birds. Upon arrival, journey to our eco-lodge within the sanctuary and explore the area on your own this afternoon. After dinner, join a guide for a stargazing walk to view the constellations of the southern hemisphere.
Araras Eco Lodge (B,L,D)

Day 5 — Pantanal

Head deep into the wetlands on horseback and discover the rare native flora and fauna. Keep your eye out for brightly plumed hyacinth macaws, tapirs, monkeys, and perhaps an elusive jaguar. Or you may choose to set out on a photo safari by jeep. Return to the lodge for lunch before an afternoon hike in a different part of the reserve. If you wish, venture out with a guide after dinner to spot nocturnal creatures such as caimans and capybaras.
Araras Eco Lodge (B,L,D)

Day 6 — Pantanal

This morning, travel overland to the banks of the Clarinho River and embark on a full-day guided canoe excursion. Spot aquatic wildlife including giant river otters and a wide spectrum of water birds—from ibises to spoonbills. Conditions permitting, cast a fishing line to catch (and release) the piranhas that swim in these waters. Stop for a picnic lunch of churrasco, or Brazilian barbecue, along the banks of the river. Gather for dinner at the lodge tonight.
Araras Eco Lodge (B,L,D)

Day 7 — Pantanal/Cuiabá/Rio de Janeiro

Awaken early for a hike at sunrise, when the wildlife is active. After breakfast, transfer to Cuiabá for our flight to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil's capital until 1960. Set among jagged hills on an island-dotted bay and lined with the legendary beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema, Rio is known for its vibrant festivals, music, and dance. Settle into our hotel, located on Copacabana Beach. During a free evening, discover a local restaurant and perhaps take in a live bossa nova or samba show.
Copacabana Palace (B)

Day 8 — Rio de Janeiro

The morning begins with a visit to Sugarloaf Mountain. Ascend to the summit by a two-stage cable car and admire spectacular views of the city and Guanabara Bay. Next, set out on a walking tour of the historic city center. Enjoy lunch on your own and an afternoon at leisure to explore Rio. Alternatively, take an optional excursion to a local favela—or shantytown—to meet residents at a women's cooperative; visit local music and dance centers; and watch a demonstration of capoeira, Brazil's graceful martial art. Gather tonight for a private music and dance performance before a festive farewell dinner at the city's best churrascaria, or steak house.
Copacabana Palace (B,D)

Days 9 & 10 — Rio de Janeiro/U.S.

Board a cogwheel train and ascend Corcovado Mountain to the base of the iconic "Christ the Redeemer" statue. From this magnificent perch, take in a 360-degree view of Rio. Later, drive by the lagoon to view some of Rio's most famous beaches—São Conrado, Leblon, and Ipanema. Enjoy lunch on your own before transferring to the airport for your flight home, arriving the following day.
(B)

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Optional Extension

• Salvador - Post-Trip Extension, 5 Days

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