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Brazil:
 Travel Itineraries-
1- 2011 Carnival Program- Rio de Janeiro- 6 Days/5 Nights
2- New Year's-Rio de Janeiro: The World's Greatest Celebration
3- Buenos Aires-Iguazu Falls-Rio- 9 Days/8 Nights
4- Buzios Extension-4 Days/3 Nights
5- Rio-Paraty-Iguazu Falls-10 Days/9 Nights
6- Salvador do Bahia - 4 Days/3 Nights
7- Fortaleza Extension - 4 Days/3 Nights
Brazil is quite a diverse country, as it has everything from the jungles of the Amazon to the amazing beaches of Rio de Janeiro and the far north. Brazil is a country where you can absorb all of the amazing culture, dance, music, and traditions that the fun loving Brazilians are renown for. From the famous Carnivalfestival in March to the many other vibrant celebrations throughout the year, Brazil will raise the rhythm and passion to your life.
Travel Itineraries:
2011 Carnival Program- Rio de Janeiro
Day 1 – Friday, February 11
- Early arrival in Rio.
Carnival approaches and it’s time to be in Rio to feel the rhythm!
From the airport, you will have to a half day city tour, which  includes Rio’s highlights and Carnival attractions. A Costume designer will show you her atelier and you will see how they build the incredible costumes that are used for the Carnival Parade. Followed by this will be a short historical tour to downtown Rio. This tour will show you the mixture of historic buildings overshadowed by high rise office buildings. The historical centre of Rio houses an impressive complex of Colonial & Baroque architecture, including the Royal Palace, the National Historical Museum, the Candelaria Church and the monastery of Sao Bento (considered by some to be the city's richest historical building).
- Transfer to Hotel.
- Dinner on your own.
Day 2: Saturday, February 12
- After breakfast you will be picked up at your hotel and depart for the Sugarloaf Mountain. You will go up by cable car and be able to appreciate the fantastic views of the Guanabara Bay, Copacabana Beach, and much more.
- Return to your hotel.
- Lunch is on your own.
This afternoon you will have the first opportunity of practicing what you have learned about the samba dance. Get ready and let's go down to the Carlinhos de Jesus street block. Carlinhos de Jesus has owned a dance house since 1992. As a Carnival fan, he created this street block. You don’t have to be an experienced dancer to take part, just feel the music and move your body. Each traveler will receive a Carnival kit containing a t-shirt from the street block and 2 tickets to the subway.
- Return to the hotel.
- Dinner is on your own.
- Overnight at the hotel.
Day 3: Sunday, February 13 
- After breakfast, morning visit to the Corcovado Mountain to see Christ the Redeemer Statue and enjoy the fabulous views of the city.
- Return to the hotel & enjoy the afternoon
We will then depart for an excellent dinner at a typical Brazilian steakhouse, followed by a visit to the Samba School stadium (not the parade itself). We will also see the Samba parade and watch the schools line up before the show begins. Now's your chance to see all the costumes and floats together for the first time, even before the TV cameras do! We will be permitted to really get behind the scenes and take backstage photos.
- Return to the hotel.
- Change your clothes and by midnight we will pick you up at the hotel and take
to a Carnival ball. Rio offers a selection of Carnival balls, which you should
not miss!
- Return by taxi (on your own) and overnight at the hotel.
Day 4: Monday, February 14
- Breakfast
- Enjoy waking up late or rising early to enjoy the beautiful Copacabana &
Ipanema Beaches.
- Lunch is on your own. 
- Return to the hotel.
- Dinner is on your own.
Optional: Night departure to the Samba School parade. It's time to see what
makes Carnival in Rio so well known!
- Return to the hotel in regular transfers.
Day 5: Tuesday, February 15
- Breakfast
- The day is yours to enjoy. We'd be happy to offer suggestions or arrange a
specific tour for you.
In the afternoon, feel like a real native and enjoy the most famous and traditional street bands of the Ipanema district (walking distance from the hotel).
- Dinner and night is on your own. 
- Overnight at the hotel.
Day 6: Wednesday, February 16
- Ash Wednesday... don’t be sad!
You can come back next year!
- Breakfast will be served at the
hotel restaurant.
- Morning suggestion: relax, but
explore some more!
- Noon checkout at the hotel.
* If your flight is leaving later today, then you can ask reception to store your
luggage and do some shopping (as most of the shops open after lunch).
- Transfer from your hotel to the airport.
Trip Pricing:
* Prices are per person in Double occupancy
PREMIUM
Sofitel Rio, 5 Night Package:
- Single Deluxe Ocean Front- Request pricing
- Double Deluxe Ocean Front- Request pricing
GOOD VALUE
Copa Sul, 5 Nights
- Single Std - Available upon request
- Double Std - $2,057 usd/person
BUDGET
South American, 5 Nights
- Single Std - Available upon request
- Double Std - $1,892 usd/person (Double Ocupancy)
Carnival ticket at the Sambodrome for the parade are included in the above prices.
IMPORTANT NOTES:
* Prices are in USD and per person per ticket per day.
* Tickets are guaranteed only upon non-refundable full pre-payment.
* Tickets are individual and valid for one day only.
* Sector 9 is in the tourist sector with numbered seats and bilingual staff.
* Frisas/ Box - Sector 9 - six seats in each box, which may also be purchased in
couples (minimum 2 passengers).
* Rates are based on the Brazilian Reais. Due to this and to the fluctuating
exchange rate, these are the approximate rates and are subject to alteration.
* Roundtrip transfers to the Sambodromo are on a shuttle bus.
* The Parade starts at 9pm and ends around 7am.
INCLUDED:
- Cable car entrance fee for Sugarloaf Mountain during the city tour of Rio
- Entrance fee for Corcovado train during city tour of Rio
(Entrance fees are under the control of the respective municipal government
and are based on actual amounts. Changes without previous notice on these
amounts may occur and can therefore not be guaranteed if the booking is not
paid in full upon reservation.
-Entrance tickets and transfers to the Sambodromo
-Room tax
NOT INCLUDED:
- City tax, airfares,
airport taxes, meals (if not mentioned) and drinks during meal, tips, early
check-in and late check-out at hotels, or any other item not mentioned on the
program.
Parade Pricing (Optional, but Included in Above Pricing):
- SUNDAY OR MONDAY GRANDSTANDS USD$ 458
- FEB 13 or FEB 14, 2010 BOX/FRISAS Request pricing
- Roundtrip trf to the Parade SIB p/ pax p/ day USD$ 63
- From there, lunch stop (optional) at one of Rio's most traditional restaurants
and tea rooms, Casa Colombo. After lunch depart by subway to a Samba
Lesson! Samba is the spirit and soul of Brazilian music and dance. The
fascinating rhythms and bodily expressions make-up the Samba dance (one
of the most popular ballroom dances). The simple steps and distinctive music
makes the Samba very easy to learn. Come and learn a few dance moves!
2011 New Year’s-Rio de Janeiro: The World's Greatest Celebration
New Year’s Eve – from Leme to Copacabana Fort
No one celebrates the New Year like the Cariocas (native people from Rio de Janeiro). This unique event blends Afro cults- Macumba and Candomblé
- With fireworks and music into an all-night party that keeps Copacabana vibrating from dusk on December 31 to dawn on January 1.
The people, mostly dressed in white, coming from the four corners of the world, bid farewell to the year that is ending and toast the arrival of the new year. People from all social classes, side by side, everyone together, in peace. Groups of devotees all dressed in white moves across the sands to prepare their offerings, mainly candles and flowers, to the sea goddess, Iemanjá. All the people, regardless of religion or race, take part in these celebrations, tossing flowers into the waves, bearing their wishes for the year ahead.
Hotels, bar and restaurants along the entire beachfront from Leme to Copacabana offer a wide variety of party options, many with gourmet menus & tropical buffets.
- When everything seems like it can’t get any better, it does! At midnight, the largest fireworks show in the world takes place, lasting 18-minutes, illuminating the beauty of Copacabana Beach in various colors. The sky along the entire length of the beach bursts into color, making it difficult to know which way to look. The pyrotechnic display culminates in the traditional waterfall of light cascading from the top of the Hotel Méridien. Stages are erected the length of the beach, at which live musical performances take place. It is undoubtedly the greatest open-air party in the world. Two million people united by the incomparable spirit of Rio greet each other, even if they are strangers, and walk in the direction of the shore to make their offerings. Each one in his/her own private ritual, the New Year has arrived!
Trip Itinerary:
Day 1:
- Arrival; transfer to your hotel
A guide will be waiting at the airport to assist you and a car will take you to your hotel, in the meantime the guide can give you tips about any main sights of the city you may want to visit.
- Short city tour
Rio was made for Tourism. Most attractions are very close to each other and we will show you as much of this marvelous city as possible.
- Sugar Loaf Mountain Visit (Pao do Azucar)
Sugar Loaf is the symbol of Rio. The view from there is very impressive, as the cable car trip is in two stages: the first goes to Urca Hill, 220 meters high, and then up to the top of Sugar Loaf (396 m). This can be visited in about 2 hours.
- Meal At Marius Degustare Restaurant
Churrascaria Marius, the famous BBQ place, became so popular that it can be considered today a touristic landmark.
What was good is even better now. On top of its fantastic decoration and excellent location in front of the beach, they have improved and extended the range of services. Everyone thoroughly enjoys the tender Picanha meat and the buffet offers a variety of tasty dishes, from oyster to salads to shrimp and more. You can’t call it a "real Churrascaria" anymore, but it can easily be named "the best all-you-can-eat-restaurant in the world".
- Overnight at hotel of choice
Day 2: 
- Breakfast at hotel
- At Leisure
• OPTIONS: Beach, swimming pool, shopping, massage at hotel
- Sugestions For Day Activities
* Special Interest Adventure: Hang Gliding From Pedra Bonita
Hang gliding tandem flights have become one of the favorite activities by tourists who come looking for excitement and fun. For your safety, we work with the best pilots, who have over 15 years of experience and are certified by the Brazilian Hang Gliding Association. Make your dream of flying come true.
* Special Interest Adventure: Surf Lessons
California's not the only hot surfing spot in the world. Rio has a number of good spots to catch waves. The waves may not be as big as in Hawaii, but the water is certainly warmer than Vancouver Island in British Columbia. So come and learn with the Cariocas how to ride the waves!
The closest surfing beaach to the main part of Rio is Arpoador Beach in Ipanema. Here, waves are between 1 and 3 meters (3-10 ft.)
Cultural Highlight: Santa Teresa and Art Craft Shopping
You will fall in love with this picturesque part of Rio, which offers stunning views across the bay. Its narrow streets are lined by double-story town homes with picturesque gardens, interspersed with cultural centers, studios and restaurants. Pé de Boi is one of the most complete popular art stores in all of Brazil and is so interesting, it could double as a folklore museum. Definitely worth a visit!
Wellness: A Day At A Spa
• Would you like a massage? Just about everyone knows the basic function of a massage is to help the body heal itself and to increase health and well being.
• Doesn't matter if it's rainy or sunny, no one should miss this opportunity to relax. You can choose from 5 kinds of massages:
1) Swedish
2) Shiatsu
3) Ayurvedic,
4) Shirodhara
5) Relaxing.
* Also available are the Colon and Hot Stones treatments.
Favela Tour
An interesting experience is to visit a real slum (Favela), of Rio. Lots of clichés will be put aside when we visit surprising sites. We will watch the daily lives of this community and visit local homes. We walk through the small streets, watch the local commerce and understand how the Samba dance begins in many of theses areas.
Cultural Highlight: Rio Social Project
Born out of desire to counteract the violent drug industry, the ONG was designed to add value and disseminate black culture. This newspaper primarily targeted young people interested in reggae, soul, and hip-hop, and other musical genres. The group soon thereafter opened its first Núcleo Comunitário de Cultura (“Culture Community Center”), offering its workshops in dance, percussion, garbage recycling, soccer and Capoeira. Their idea was to offer a cultural and artistic education for adolescents, living in slums. By providing local youth with more opportunities of strengthening their heritage, we hope to provide a viable path away from entanglement in the prevalent drug trade.
Cultural Highlight: Botanical Garden
Considered one of the most important botanical gardens in the world, it is known as a living museum, containing over 8 thousand species of plants, among these are the outstanding imperial palms, the Brazilian Pau-Brasil, and many other native plants. A stroll through the park will also reveal a rich historic and cultural heritage in buildings, such as the old gunpowder factory, the old portal of the Academia de Belas Artes, and the Empress’ Mansion, which houses the National School of Tropical Botanic (the first of its kind in Latin America).
Cultural Highlight: Walking Tour In Historical Centre
The drive from the southern part of Rio towards the Center is quite spectacular with views of Sugar Loaf and the Guanabara Bay.
The historical center of Rio houses an impressive complex of colonial Baroque architecture, including the Royal Palace, the National Historical Museum, the Candelaria Church, and the monastery of Sao Bento (which is considered by some to be the city's richest historical building).
The tour will take you to Praca XV de Novembro (named after the date of the proclamation of the republic). Built in 1743, the palace was first used as the home of the Viceroys of Brazil, down Avenida Rio Branco, the city's main street, which is crowded with city workers during the week, to the Municipal Theater, a two-thirds replica of the Paris Opera- inaugurated in 1909. From here, you will continue to the modern Roman Catholic Cathedral, a huge cone-shaped structure, which is meant to demonstrate the channeling of human energies to the heavens. It is probably best appreciated from the inside, as four enormous stained glass windows illuminate rainbows of light into the towering interior.
Dance Class
Instantly become a local and learn a few dance moves. In no time you will master some moves and be ready to take a few spins on the dance floor.
Dinner & Dancing At Rio Scenarium
The Rio Scenarium is probably the most beautiful bar in Rio. Located in a renovated warehouse on the edge of Lapa, this antiques store turned restaurant-bar, is one of the places with the best musical program that attracts all kind of people, no matter of age and race. You will spend a wonderful night listening to Brazilian music at its best and mingling with the wonderful locals! The house is part of the renewed bohemian scene of Lavradio Street and houses a bar, live music, and a disco.
- Including Entrance Fee and one drink. Closed Sundays and Mondays.
- Overnight at hotel of choice
Day 3:
- Breakfast at hotel
Corcovado - Christ Statue (Visited By Train Through A Tropical Forest)
Rio de Janeiro spreads out in a magnificent panorama during the day, glittering and magical after dark and always protected by Christ the Redeemer Statue. He welcomes visitors and residents, with his arms wide open. The panoramic view is truly incredible.
- Free Afternoon For Relaxing or Seeing Some More
Beaches/Sights
Revillon - New Year's Party
• It's well known that Brazilians know how to party and New Year's Eve in Rio, or Reveillon, is one of the biggest events of the year. The main party along Copacabana beach hosts several music stages, fireworks and dancing.
• The parties on Copacabana Beach are enormous. During the day hundreds of people come to the seafront to pay homage to the Afro-Brazilian orixá, or goddess, Iemanjá, placing offerings in the sea. Music is played throughout the day, but it really kicks off around 7pm when live acts and DJs start up the sound systems on the stages.
• The stages are set up over a 4km stretch and at midnight a spectacular firework display blasts out the old year and toasts the new one. This is only the beginning, however, as people dance into the night.
• There are festive balls and parties at all the major hotels along the beach. The hotels stay open all night, serving champagne breakfasts from around 3am on January 1st.
• One word of advice: you should go dressed in white, a religious tradition that is well entrenched. If you don't, you will stand out like a sore thumb.
- Overnight at hotel of choice
Day 4:
- Breakfast at hotel
- At Leisure
OPTIONS: Beach, swimming pool, shopping, massage at your hotel.
- Departure Transfer to the Airport
- At Airport: Check In and Flight To Next Destination
Hotel Suggestions For New Year's Package:
- Windsor Palace Hotel: $1,762 usd/person (double occupancy)
- Excelsior Copacabana: $2,157 usd/person (double occupnacy)
- Sofitel Rio de Janeiro: $3,246 usd/person (double accupancy)
Included in Trip Package:
* Private transfer from/to hotel, in air conditioning transportation with local guide
assistance
* Regular tour to Corcovado and Sugar Loaf with the train ticket; dinner at
Marius Restaurant and Rio Scenarium.
* Accommodation: 4 nights in standard rooms with breakfast.
* New Years Dinner at hotel.
Not Included in Trip Package:
* Air ticket and airport taxes
* Beverages during meals
* Room Tax
* Lunch and dinner that are not mentioned
* Personal expenses
* Gratuities
* New Year's Eve dinner
* Any other service not mentioned in the program above
* Additional excursions
Buenos Aires-Iguazu Falls-Rio- 9 Days/8 Nights + Buzios Extension
BUENOS AIRES
Buenos Aires is the capital and largest city of Argentina, located on the southern shore of the Río de la Plata. The city is home to an incomparable array of theaters and other traditional venues. Buenos Aires's museums are also a piece of work, many of which are a beautiful neoclassical structure with hidden treasures inside. Once in Buenos Aires, you cannot miss a walk through the neighborhoods of Palermo, Recoleta, La Boca, and San Telmo. You'll have several great meals, enjoy shopping, and take in breathtakingly beautiful sites. Buenos Aires is a city that never sleeps. With tango as the main draw, Buenos Aires says, "let me entertain you." Numerous show palaces, from simple to fancy, offer excellent Tango performances. Here, you will find a city rich in cultural excitement, shopping at bargain prices, entertainment and excellent food.
Day 1: Buenos Aires
- Arrival & transfer to the hotel
Upon arrival in Buenos Aires , clear customs at the airport, welcome and transfer to the hotel.
Your guide will assist you with the check-in at your hotel.
- Tango show & dinner (drinks included)-
Optional
The Tango is part of the typical music of Buenos Aires. This tour will be to enjoy a special “Porteña” (local Buenos Aires residents) music night at one of the excellent tango places, where typical songs and dances are performed.
- Overnight at hotel
Day 2: Buenos Aires
Half Day City Tour of Buenos Aires
In the morning a panoramic sightseeing tour to the Plaza de Mayo, the Government House, the Cathedral, Columbus Square, La Boca district, San Martín Square, Santa Fé Avenue, Recoleta Cemetery, Grand Bourg Square, Palermo Chico district, polo grounds, Palermo horse race track, Palermo Park, rose garden, Libertador Avenue, Congress Hall, 9 de Julio Avenue, and the famous Colon Opera House. (Entrance not included)
- Afternoon at leisure
- Overnight at hotel
Day 3: Buenos Aires
Full day Gaucha fiesta with lunch (drinks included) - Optional
It’s a unique opportunity for learning about the Argentine Gaucho, his traditional music and dances, and participating in a real Gaucho festival. The party is held at a beautiful country residence, an old ranch in the outskirts of Buenos Aires. Here, you will be welcomed by the host family, and will be offered some typical Argentinean specialties, such as “Empanadas” (meat pastry) and excellent Argentine wines. There will be time to ride horses and walk around, admiring the Argentinean “pampas” (countryside). Afterwards, lunch will be served, with a complete Argentinean Asado (BBQ), including chorizo (sausages), steaks, salads, desserts and coffee. After the meal, a folkloric musical will take place, followed by Argentinean songs and dances.
- Overnight at hotel 
Day 4: Buenos Aires-Iguazu Falls
- Transfer to the domestic airport
- Flight from Buenos Aires to the city of Iguazu
FOZ DO IGUAÇU
Iguaçu Falls are truly spectacular! The falls are the second-most-visited place in South America. Set in a magnificent subtropical rain forest, the Iguaçu River plunges and crashes in a series of tiered falls. The 275 falls are over three kilometers wide and 80 meters high, which make them wider than Victoria, higher than Niagra, and more beautiful than both. Neither words nor photographs do them justice, they must be seen and heard. Whether viewed from land, air or water (and you can do all three on this trip), the Iguaçu Falls are sensational. The Falls were a holy burial place for the Tupi-Guarani and Paraguas people, thousands of years before they were “discovered” by Europeans. In 1986, the international commission of UNESCO declared the region a World Heritage site. You may very well see variations in the spelling of the name of the falls. In Brazil, it is Iguaçu; in Argentina, Iguazú; in Paraguay, Iguaçu and in U.S., Iguassu.
* Please note: Bring sturdy walking shoes and rain gear.
- Arrival & transfer to the hotel
- Overnight at hotel
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Day 5: Iguazu Falls (Brazil)
Half Day Excursion To the Brazilian Side of the Falls
This tour will leave everyone speechless (and a bit wet!). After taking
photographs of the breathtaking panoramic views from the observation deck, a
guide will lead the group along a walkway to almost within touching distance of
the falls.
The falls are formed by the Iguassu River which originates in Curitiba, the capital of Parana state, and continues 1,320 km from east to west, winding its way through the state. It is 2,700 square meters, with a water volume of approximately 400 m/sec during the dry summer and 10,000 m/sec during the rainy season.
You will be picked up at your hotel (except for Hotel das Cataratas Eco Resort) in Brazil and driven back at the end of the tour. There is also an elevator for those wishing to see and photograph the falls from the top.
- Overnight at hotel  
Day 6: Rio de Janeiro
- Transfer to airport
- Flight to Rio
RIO DE JANEIRO
Rio is blessed with a wonderful natural setting, wedged between mountains, with distinct peaks, among those are Sugarloaf and Corcovado. Corcovado has the famous statue of Christ on top and the crystal blue sea below. Underneath lies a colourful state of mind, the Carioca people (Rio's natives are known as this), with almost 8 million locals who samba their way, relaxed and high-spirited, through life.
- Arrival & transfer to hotel
- Overnight at hotel 
Day 7: Rio de Janeiro
Half Day Sugarloaf Mountain Excursion
Sugarloaf Mountain, located in the Urca district, which is just outside the neighboorhoods of Botafogo and Copacabana. The cable car trip is in two stages: the first goes to Urca Hill, 220 metres high and then a short walk to the other side leads you to the second station for the next part of the ride, up to the top of Sugarloaf itself. The top of Sugarloaf, 396 metres high, has been landscaped and includes several scenic pathways through the lush jungle vegetation. Sugarloaf Mountain can be visited in about two hours.
- Dinner at a Carniceria (Brazilian
steakhouse)
Day 8: Rio de Janeiro
- Day of Leisure
- Overnight at hotel
Day 9: Rio & Buzios Extension
- Transfer to airport for going home
or
- Transfer to Buzios
Trip Pricing:
PREMIUM
BUE - Panamericano Buenos Aires
IGU - Bourbon Cataratas
RIO - Rio Othon Palace
- Single Std - $2,465 usd/person
- Double Std - $1,475 usd/person (double occupancy)
GOOD VALUE
BUE - Howard Johnson Recoleta 
IGU - Continental Inn
RIO - Olinda Othon
- Single Std - $1,715 usd/person
- Double Std - $1,078 usd/person (double occupancy)
BUDGET
BUE - Hotel de Las Luces
IGU - Bristol Carima Hotel
RIO - Augustos Copacabana
- Single Std - $1,403 usd/person
- Double Std - $910 usd/person (double occupancy)
Optional Tour: Buzios
 
Buzios Extension
Buzios is located about 180 km to the east of Rio de Janeiro. It is on a peninsula extending into the Atlantic ocean and is home to 23 beautiful beaches. The beaches vary greatly from rough to gentle, busy to tranquil and warm to cool. Today, Buzios is the meeting point for upper class Brazilian vacationers, as well as many foreign tourists. During the day, the town is deserted as everyone heads for the many beaches to show off their suntanned bodies or eat the delicious seafood that abounds. After the sun goes down, the town sparkles as everyone meets up for tropical cocktails, including the famous "Capirhina" drink.
The evening begins at ten and goes till dawn, when the innumerable streetbars & discos close their doors. Buzios is famous for its beaches, as it is very close to Rio de Janeiro and very much sought after by tourists at the end of the year for the new years eve celebrations. This coastal region stretches along the northern part of the state and is marked by astounding contrasts of luxury and simplicity, colonial and modern, wide variety of cuisines, different types of boats and ways of life. The most traditional activity in this region is salt mining, which is practised along the whole fluminense coast and features windmills as its symbol. Fishing villages are also closely linked to the region, giving the area a rustic appearance. The main tourist attractions of the region are the resorts of Buzios, Cabo Frio, Arraial do Cabo, Rio das Ostras, Marica and Saquarema. Originally a fishing village, the present municipality of Buzios, with an area of 95 Km2, was until recently part of the district of Cabo Frio.
- Arrival & transfer to hotel
- Overnight at hotel
Day 10: Buzios
- Breakfast
- Visit the beautiful beaches in the area (dune buggy rental is an option)
- Overnight at hotel
Day 11: Buzios
- Breakfast
- Snorkle, scuba dive or learn how to surf (extra costs)
- Overnight at hotel
Day 12: Buzios
- Breakfast 
- Transfer to the
airport
OPTIONAL TOURS:
Full Day Tour To Arraial do Cabo With Lunch
Around 9:00 a.m. you will be picked up at your hotel and driven 45 minutes to Arraial do Cabo.
On this journey you will discover these wonderfull places:
*The salt hills of Cabo Frio;
*The dunes of Arraial do Cabo;
*The Grande beach;
*The Prainha; and
*Anjos beach.
At 10:00 a.m. you will embark on a delightful 3 hour boat tour (sorry, this is not Gilligan's Island!), sailing, seeing beaches and islands of increadible beauty, while you are served soda, crackers and spring water.
First place to be discovered is the Gruta Azul (Blue Grot), a place where the rocks reflect the ocean color. Here, we will make a brief stop here for a swim and a snack at Farol Island.
At 1:00 p.m. you will disembark in the village at Arraial do Cabo and ride to Cabo Frio. A buffet lunch will be served at the Grill House. Right after lunch we will depart for a city tour through Cabo Frio, visiting Forte Beach, Itajuru's Channel and São Benedito's old downtown. Return to your hotel in Buzios around 4:30 p.m.
Half Day Catamaran Tour– Optional
Embark at Porto Veleiro Pier for a Catamaran tour that sails by 12 beaches & 4 islands, with 3 stops for scuba diving. The Catamaran has a glass floor which is perfect for sea life observation.
Details:
Ossos Beach, Azeda Beach, Azedinha Beach, Joao Fernandes Beach (1st stop), Joao Fernandinho Beach, Branca Island, Feia Island (2nd stop), Rasa Island, Manguinhos Beach, Tartaruga Beach, Tartaruguinha Beach (3rd stop), Virgens Beach, Amores Beach, Canto Beach, Caboclo's Island, Orla Bardot, Armação Beach.
DIVE EXPERIENCE – Optional
The area around Buzios is fantastic for diving - a great varity of sealife can be explored from the islands. Don't loose this oportunity of having a diving lesson at João Fernandinho beach, you will be delighted!
Trip Pricing: 
Good Value
Byblos Pousada + Transfers from/to Rio
- Single Std - $658 usd/person
- Double Std - $264 usd/person (double occupancy)
Premium
Vila D'Este Pousada+ Transfers from/to Rio
- Single Std - $817 usd/person
- Double Std - $474 usd/person
Optional Tours
F/D Tour Arraial do Cabo + Lunch (SIB) – $136 usd/person
H/D Catamaran Tour (SIB) - $45 usd/person
Dive Experience (SIB) - USD $117 usd/person
INCLUDED:
* Cable car fee for Sugar Loaf during city tour in Rio de Janeiro
* Entrance fee at National Park at the Brazilian side of the falls in Iguassu
(Entrance fees are under the control of the respective municipal government
and are based on actual amounts. Changes without previous notice on these
amounts may occur and can therefore not be guaranteed if the booking is not
paid in full upon reserving this trip. It will be adjusted in your final invoice
immediately after our advice of increase.
* Room tax
NOT INCLUDED:
* City tax, airfares, airport taxes, meals (if not mentioned) and drinks
during meal (unless mentioned), tips, early check-in and late check-out at
hotels, or any other item not mentioned on the program. Please be aware that
many Brazilian cities do have Room tax (or city tax) wich is notmandatory. It is
not included in our hotel daily rates and it will be charged to the passenger
directly at the hotel checkout.
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Rio-Paraty-Iguazu Falls-10 Days
Day 1: RIO DE JANEIRO
Rio is blessed with a wonderful natural
setting, wedged between mountains,
with several distinct peaks. Among
these are Sugarloaf and Corcovado.
Corcovado has the famous statue of Christ on top and the crystal blue sea below. Underneath lies a colourful state of mind, the Carioca people (Rio's natives are known as this), with almost 8 million locals who samba their way, relaxed and high-spirited, through life.
- Arrival & transfer to the hotel
- Overnight at the hotel
Day 2: Rio de Janeiro
Half Day Excursion To Sugarloaf Mountain
Sugarloaf Mountain, located in the Urca district, which is just outside the neighboorhoods of Botafogo and Copacabana. The cable car trip is in two stages: the first goes to Urca Hill, 220 metres high and then a short walk to the other side leads you to the second station for the next part of the ride, up to the top of Sugarloaf itself. The top of Sugarloaf, 396 metres high, has been landscaped and includes several scenic pathways through the lush jungle vegetation. Sugarloaf Mountain can be visited in approximately two hours.
- Overnight at the hotel
Day 3: Rio de Janeiro
Half Day Excursion To Corcovado
Your guide will pick you up at the hotel and transfer you to the Cosme Velho railroad station, crossing over to the traditional residential district of that same name. Here, you will disembark and take a cogwheel train up the 710 meters to the statue of Christ. To reach the top of Corcovado Hill, the train crosses one of the largest urban forests in the world, the Tijuca. The Tijuca Forest is located in the heart of Rio de Janeiro and it separates the southern and north sections of the city. This 20-minute ride gives you just enough time to prepare yourself mentally for what is waiting at the top. In the meantime, enjoy the lush scenery and take in some of that fresh mountain air of the Tijuca Forest. But keep your eyes open: every so often you can catch glimpses of Rio way below. Finally at the top of several flights of steps you are beneath the almost 40-metre tall statue of Christ with the whole of Rio at your feet. The entire city spreads out in a magnificent panorama during the day, glittering and magical after dark and always protected by Christ, the Redeemer, who blesses visitors and residents from above. The spectacle of all the visitors and the utter beauty is truly incredible.
Nightime Samba Show- Optional
Nightime in Rio is a great meeting point for people and the music makes your heart beat faster, as the show gets ready to begin. After dinner, you will be taken to the main stage, where a show of Samba and Folklore music with Brazilians dancers will preform. Here, you will feel the energy that makes up Carnival, it is an enchantment that touches everyone.
- Overnight at the hotel
Day 4: Rio de Janeiro
- Day of relaxing & plenty of great nightlife
- Overnight at the hotel
Day 5: Rio de Janeiro-Paraty
-Transfer to
Paraty
PARATY
Declared a historical monument by Unesco, Paraty is a small colonial town, surrounded by forested hills. Paraty was originally inhabited by the Guianas Indians, but in the early part of the 16th century the Portuguese started settling here. During the years that followed, with the discovery of the gold in Minas Gerais, it gradually became a busy and important port. Miners and supplies left for the gold mines and gold was shipped to Europe. As a result, the small town prospered and many of the churches that can still be seen today were built at this time. There was so much wealth in Paraty, that in 1711 Captain Francisco do Amaral Gurgel sailed from Paraty to save Rio de Janeiro from a threatening French siege and handed over a 1000 crates of sugar, 200 head of cattle and 610,000 gold cruzados.
However, the town´s glory was short-lived and in the 1720s, a new road was built from Rio to Minas Gerais (cutting off Paraty completely). It was only in the 19th century that the local economy was revived with the coffee boom and today, with tourists.
- Overnight in a nice Bed & Breakfast
Day 6: Paraty
Walking City Tour
Inhabited since 1650, Paraty has remained fundamentally unaltered since its heyday, as a staging post for the eighteenth-century trade of Brazilian gold, passing from Minas Gerais to Portugal. Paraty remained off the beaten track, quietly functioning, but intact. Nowadays, UNESCO considers Paraty to represent one of the world's most important examples of colonial architecture and the entire city has been elevated to the status of a national monument. The town centre was one of Brazil's first planned urban projects and its narrow cobbled streets, off limits to motorized vehicles, is bordered by houses built around courtyards, adorned with brightly coloured flowers and alive with hummingbirds. The cobblestones of the streets are arranged in channels to drain off water and allow the sea to enter and wash the streets at high tides.
- This will be a walking tour. The guide will pick you up at your hotel in Paraty and return with you at the end of the tour.
- Overnight at the pousada
Day 7: Paraty 
Full Day Schooner Cruise With Lunch
Boat and fishing trips are the region's stock in trade and a tour of the local islands is an unforgettable experience. Just imagine a paradise island in an idyllic setting, with crystal clear waters and white sanded beaches - this is where we will take you. You will visit some of the many beautiful & secluded beaches, where you can splash about in the sea, snorkle, sunbathe and get something to eat or drink in the small bar. Here, you can be guaranteed a relaxing, enjoyable day! Alternatively, for those staying in Paraty, you can talk to a local fisherman who will take you where you want to go in a smaller fishing boat.
- Overnight at the pousada 
Day 8: Paraty-Iguazu Falls
- Transfer from Paraty to Sao
Paulo Airport
- Flight to Iguazu
FOZ DO IGUAÇU
Iguaçu Falls are truly spectacular! The falls are the second-most-visited place in South America. Set in a magnificent subtropical rain forest, the Iguaçu River plunges and crashes in a series of tiered falls. The 275 falls are over three kilometers wide and 80 meters high, which make them wider than Victoria, higher than Niagra, and more beautiful than both. Neither words nor photographs do them justice, they must be seen and heard. Whether viewed from land, air or water (and you can do all three on this trip), the Iguaçu Falls are sensational. The Falls were a holy burial place for the Tupi-Guarani and Paraguas people, thousands of years before they were “discovered” by Europeans. In 1986, the international commission of UNESCO declared the region a World Heritage site. You may very well see variations in the spelling of the name of the falls. In Brazil, it is Iguaçu; in Argentina, Iguazú; in Paraguay, Iguaçu and in U.S., Iguassu.
Please note: Bring sturdy walking shoes and rain gear.
- Arrival & transfer to hotel
- Overnight at the hotel
Day 9: Iguazu Falls (Argentina Side) 
Half Day Argentina Iguazu Falls Tour
You will be picked up at your hotel, in Brazil, and depart for Puerto Iguazú in Argentina. You will reach the Visitors Center of the Iguazú National Park (Argentina side) and walk approximately 400m to the central train station. The train has a capacity of 240 passengers and leaves to the Devil's Throat station every 30 minutes (from 8h30 till 17h00).
Iguazú Falls are located between Brazil and Argentina, inside the Iguazú National Park. It was created in 1939 and has around 67,000 hectares. The falls represent the main tourist attraction of Puerto Iguazú. There are two kinds of strolls next to the falls: the upper and the lower one. The upper one takes about 30 minutes and it is 700m long, from where you can see the San Martin island on the Brazilian side. The lower one is 1,300m long, lasts about 1 to 2 hours and is from where you can have a nice view from the Devil's throat (Garganta do Diabo), another falls on the Brazilian side.
Strolls along the Yguazú River And Devil’s Throat: over the falls, through an Yguazú river affluent, one can get by train to Puerto Canoas, situated 4 Km from the Visitors Center in the Yguazú National Park. From this point there is a new footbridge with 1,100 meters long that leads to the heart of the Devil’s Throat. The walk tour over to the top of Devil’s Throat it’s about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Gran Aventure Boat Safari -
Optional
IMPORTANT: These tour rates are available only for those also buying a tour to the Brazilian side of the falls (if you are staying in a different hotel).
The big adventure begins at the Macuco Safari entrance gates, located at kilometer 25 of the Cataratas Highway, inside the Iguassu National Park, beginning in open jeep-towed wagons (this allows for an unobstructed view of the scenery along the trail). During the stretch of three kilometers through the jungle, multi-lingual guides point out examples of the flora and fauna of the Park. Orchids, palm trees, bromeliads, centenaria trees, as well as wild animals that occasionally cross the trail are pointed out by the guides.
The hike: the second stage, a stretch of 600 meters (optional), is a hike on a trail that leads to a waterfall named "Macuco Falls". The waterfall - perfect for a refreshing dip on days of intense heat - spills down from a height of approximately 20 meters. Access is via a stairway carved into the ancient rock. The last stop is the Macuco Safari docks on the Brazilian side of the Iguassu River.
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In the water, inflatable bi-motor boats, constructed to withstand the rigors of the excursion, are secure and efficient vessels. Before beginning our journey, passengers receive life-vests and plastic containers in which to protect photographic and filming equipment. From here, the boat travels up-river, passing the canyon facing the rapids at a speed that permits the appreciation of the scenery. Rocks, animals and a lot of greenery completes the scenery until the base of the Falls is reached, next to the "great horseshoe" know as the "Devil's Throat".
Waterfall shower - rainbows, blue sky, mist and water in profusion, punctuate the spectacle that at as its high-point is the area known as "The Three Musketeers". There the captain manuvers the boat in order to get close enough to provide everyone with a quick and refreshing shower.
-Overnight at hotel
Day 10:
- HALF DAY BRAZILIAN FALLS TOUR
This tour will leave everyone speechless (and a bit wet!). After taking
photographs of the breathtaking panoramic views from the observation deck, a guide will lead the group along a walkway to within almost touching distance of the falls.
The falls are formed by the Iguassu River, which begins in Curitiba, the capital of Parana state, and continues 1,320 km from east to west, winding its way through the state. The river is 2,700 square meters wide and with a water volume of approximately 400 meters/second during the dry summer and 10,000 meters/second during the rainy season.
You will be picked up at your hotel (except for Hotel das Cataratas Eco Resort) in Brazil and driven back at the end of the tour. There is also an elevator for those wishing to see and photograph the falls from the top.
Trip Pricing
- Single Rooms-$2,253/person
- Double Rooms-$1,594/person
* Includes all hotels, breakfasts, transfers from/to the airport, and all excursions except for Samba show & Gran Aventura Boat Safari .
Salvador do Bahia-4 Days/3 Nights 
Chapada Diamantina Trekking Package-
Day 1:
SALVADOR
It is affectionately said that "when Bahians are not actually participating in a festival they are rehearsing for one." The people of Bahia, a fusion of Africans, Native Americans and Europeans, are always looking for a good time. Now imagine this with colonial architecture and marvellous beaches...they call it "the land of happiness".
- Departure transfer from Salvador to Lencois in regular bus
- Transfer Lencois bus station to hotel
- Overnight at hotel
Day 2:
TREKKING LENÇOIS TO CAPÃO VALLEY
- 6 to 7 hours walking passing by the old troopers trail.
- The trail covers the old diamond mines and next it follows the Ribeirão River. Stop for a river bath and to have a snack.
Next, we take a walk by the slopes of the monumental Morrão. We will cross the Riachinho River, where a Jeep will be waiting for us to take us to the Capão Valley. We will check-in to a Charm Lodge (Interpretative Trail in English). Your baggage will be transferd to Capão by car.
- Overnight at a beautiful lodge
Day 3:
CACHOEIRA DA FUMAÇA (SMOKE FALLS). HIKING.
- Transfer by car to the trailhead, which leads to the biggest waterfall in Brazil
and the second tallest in the world, at 380 meters height.
- This region shelters rich bromelias, orchids and cactus flora.
In times of Dry Spell, from May to September, the waterfall stays almost with
no water and the wind blows the droplets, forming the famous “Smoke”.
- 4 hours of walking & taking a relaxing bath at Riachinho Waterfall
- Return to Caeté-Açu Village late afternoon.
- Overnight at the lodge
Day 4:
- Transfer To Palmeiras At 11:00 A.M.; bus to Salvador At 12:00
P.M.
TRIP PRICING:
- Double Rooms- $723 usd/person
- Single Rooms- $775 usd/person
INCLUDED:
- Transfer from Salvador to Lencois in regular bus
- Transfer from the Lencois bus station to our 4-star hotel
- 1 Night lodging accommodations in a 4-star hotel
- Trekking with bilingual guide and snack + Transfer to our great lodge
on the 2nd day of the trip
- 1 Night of lodging accommodations at the lodge
- Hiking from Cachoeira to Fumaca (Smoke Falls-highest waterfall in
Brazil & the second tallest in the world!) with bilingual guide, snack,
& transfers on the 3rd day of the trip
- 1 Additional night of lodging accommodations at the lodge
- Transfer on the 4th Day of the trip from Capão-Palmeiras, then bus
to Salvador
NOT INCLUDED:
- Dinners
- Beverages of any sort
- Gratuities
- Entertainment
- Additional excursions
- Taxis, trains, other public transportation (except for above
mentioned long distance buses)
Fortaleza Extension-4 Days/3 Nights
Day 1: .jpg)
FORTALEZA
The city of Fortaleza was founded in 1810 and is today the fifth largest town in Brazil in terms of number of population. It is an important tourist centre. Its beaches are very popular among both Brazilian and foreign tourists. The attractions of the city include the Museum of Popular Art and Culture, which is situated in the same building as the headquarters of EMCETUR (Empresa Cearense de Turismo), formerly the local prison, where there are also more than a hundred small shops that sell arts and crafts of the region; the Central Market, with more than 600 stalls with great variety of articles, from arts and crafts, embroidery and hammocks to medicinal herbs and items for domestic use; the Jose de Alencar Theatre, with its art nouveau ironwork, built in 1910 and restored in 1991; the Historical and Anthropological Museum of Ceara; the Museum of Art of the Federal University of Ceara; and the Centre for the Preservation of the Railway.
- Arrival transfer to a 4-star hotel
- Overnight at the hotel
Day 2:
- Departure from Fortaleza to
Mandau Beach
Departure from Fortaleza at 8 a.m. to an off road seashore course starting from Cumbuco beach. Visit to several beaches, among them, Cumbuco, with stop for sand ski and photographs, Paracuru and Lagoinha, one of the most beautiful Ceará postcards, where we stop for lunch (not included), which may eventually be at the Flecheiras Beach due to the end of the day tide. At the end of the afternoon, we shall visit the Mundaú "rendeiras" (female lacemakers) to witness their ancestral craftsman techniques, and following to watch the sunset in the dunes. Overnight at Pousada das Marés.
- Overnight at a lovely bed & breakfast .jpg)
Day 2:
- Departure from Mandaru to
Jericoacoara
Departure for Jericoacoara traveling through secondary roads, deserted beaches, and fishermen villages, being presented to a little of the peaceful life of the "sertanejo" (inlander native). You will visit, among others, the beaches of Baleia, Caetanos and Icaraizinho. Arrival in Jericoacoara at the end of the afternoon.
- Overnight at another wonderful bed & breakfast
Day 3:
JERICOACOARA
Jeep ride to Blue and Paradise Lagoons, with its crystal waters, going back to Jeri at the end of the afternoon to watch the sunset spectacle into the sea, seen from the top of the large dune, tourists meeting place.
- Overnight at the bed & breakfast
Day 4:
Departure transfer to Fortaleza
At 12 o’clock we return to Fortaleza via regular road, and leave the passenger at the hotel or at the airport, according to the choice. The trip back takes approximately 5 hours.
TRIP PRICING:
- Double Rooms- $1,820 usd/person
- Single Rooms- Request pricing
INCLUDED:
- Transfer from the Fortaleza Airport to the Brasil Tropical Residence Hotel
- 3 nights hotel accommodation with breakfast at 3-4 star properties
- 1 day of off-road adventure from Fortaleza to Mandau Beach with sand-
dune skiing
- 1 day jeep tour from Mandaru to Jericoacoara, visiting several beaches &
fishing villages along the way
- 1 day jeep ride to the Blue & Paradise Lagoons
- Transfer from Jericoacoara to Fortaleza Airport
NOT INCLUDED:
- Room tax/city tax (charged at check out-is a small
amount)
- Airfares & airport taxes
- Lunches & dinners
- Beverages (both alcoholic and non-alcoholic)
- Gratuities
- Taxis, trains, other public transportation
- Entertainment or additional excursions/activities
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