Rio Escapes

Day 1: Arrive Rio de Janeiro

Rio…the very sound of it evokes images of sun, fun and rhythm of the sensuous Samba. Welcome to one of the most spectacular cities on our planet. Flanked by gorgeous mountains, white-sand beaches and verdant rainforests fronting deep blue sea, Rio occupies one of the most spectacular settings of any metropolis in the world. With the seductive sounds of sambato the world-famous beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema; the restaurants and open-air cafes, the cariocas (residents of Rio) live for the moment without a care in the world. This idea of paradise has enchanted visitors for centuries. Meeting services upon arrival and transfer to your hotel.

This afternoon on is free to get acquainted with “Cidade Maravilhosa” (Marvelous City). Rio offers world-class hotels, restaurants, shopping, and varied active sports. Beaches are an integral part of the Rio’s envied lifestyle, highlighted by two of the world’s most famous -- Copacabana and Ipanema. The marvelous city’s pulsating nightlife ranks among the best in the world.
Overnight at your Rio de Janeiro hotel.

Day 2: Rio de Janeiro (Half-day Corcovado Excursion)

This morning we drive through the fashionable Lagoa District to the base of Corcovado Mountain for a short train ride to the summit. Here, at 2,400 feet above the city stands one of South America's most famous landmarks, the 125-foot statue of "Christ the Redeemer", one of the new Seven Wonders of the World. The panorama of the city below is testament to why most visitors consider Rio to be one of the most spectacular and beautiful cities in the world. On a clear day a 360 degree panorama view covering the entire city, the beaches, the forest, mountains, Maracana (soccer) Stadium, Rio Niteroi Bridge, Botanic Garden and more. Balance of day at leisure.
Overnight at your Rio de Janeiro hotel. (B)

Day 3: Rio de Janeiro (Half-day City & sugarloaf Excursion)

This morning we drive along Copacabana and Ipanema, two of the world's most famous beaches as we make our way to Rio’s downtown to see and visit the highlights of the city including Praça Mauá, where Brazil's first skyscraper was developed; we visit Rio's ultramodern Cathedral, traffic permitting, we also stop in front of the Teatro Municipal. Next we drive to the Sambódromo. Completed in 1984, it is approx a mile long, custom-built to host Rio’s Carnival samba parades. We head back towards the beaches with a stop at Urca where we board the cable cars to ascend to the top of Sugar Loaf Mountain - 1,200 feet of sheer rock overlooking Guanabara Bay for a breathtaking view of the beaches. Balance of day at leisure.

Today is Sunday, an opportunity to visit Rio's Sunday Hippie Fair, a lively street market set up on a large square on Ipanema. If you are looking for a place to find your quintessential souvenir of your visit to Brazil, this is an excellent place to try. Frequented by locals and tourists alike the fair boasts a selection of contemporary Brazilian art, leather goods, knickknacks, jewelry, handmade instruments and live music. You may do this on your own or ask us to arrange the visit with a guide and driver.
Overnight at your Rio de Janeiro hotel. (B)

Day 4: Rio de Janeiro (Rio by night, Dinner & Show)

Today is free for more sunbathing, or to continue exploring “Cidade Maravilhosa” (Marvelous City), at your own pace. Rio offers world-class restaurants, shopping, and varied active sports. Beaches are an integral part of the Rio’s envied lifestyle, highlighted by two of the world’s most famous -- Copacabana and Ipanema.

This evening a special treat as we set out for the Rio by night Tour. First stop for dinner at one of Rio’s best restaurants, followed by a Brazilian Extravaganza show at Plataforma where you will be treated to the contagious rhythms of the Brazilian samba with the percussion instruments unique to Brazil. The show consists of lavishly and colorfully costumed dancers and musicians presenting the richness of the nation's musical and cultural heritage. The grand finale displays some of the dazzling costumes used in the Carnival parade.
Overnight at your Rio de Janeiro hotel. (B,D)

Day 5: Rio de Janeiro

Another day to explore this magical city on your own or opt for an optional tour.

Optional Botanical Gardens Tour: Rio de Janeiro’s Botanical Garden is a true ecological sanctuary, one of the ten most important in the entire world. Declared a biosphere reserve by UNESCO, the park boasts some of the rarest species of plants from Brazil and other countries. The most popular exhibit in the park is the huge royal palms dating back to the period of King John VI. The greenhouse with bromeliads, orchids and other blossoms are also something you will not want to miss. Stroll around the Amazon section of the park and you will see rare species of flora from the Brazilian Amazon. Overnight at your Rio de Janeiro hotel. (B)

Day 6: Depart Rio de Janeiro

Your last day in paradise for last minute shopping or more people watching at the beach.
Tonight transfer to the airport for the overnight flight home. (B)

Remarks

Special rates apply over Carnival, New Year's, and certain holidays. Please inquire.

US Citizens require Brazilian Visa. Other citizens, please inquire.

This package may be extended, or combined with other programs. Please inquire.