Brazil’s Falls, Islands & Colonial Coast

Fly from the UK overnight to Brazil.

Arrive in Foz do Iguaçu and settle in for 2 nights at Sanma Hotel, a stylish boutique hotel surrounded by tropical gardens close to the entrance to Iguaçu National Park. With a pool, spa and peaceful setting, it’s a comfortable base for exploring the falls.

This afternoon, meet your guide and head into the Brazilian side of Iguaçu Falls. Follow the rainforest trail to a series of viewpoints, getting closer to the thundering cascades as the path leads towards the spectacular Devil’s Throat.

The following day, cross the border into Argentina for a full-day guided exploration and different perspective of the falls.

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Fly to São Paulo before travelling south by road to Paraty, a beautifully preserved colonial town nestled between the forested mountains and the sea. Stay for 3 nights at Pousada do Ouro, a characterful guesthouse in the heart of the historic centre, with Paraty’s cobbled streets and colourful colonial buildings right on your doorstep.

With your time free to explore, wander through the historic centre and browse the independent shops, galleries and cafés tucked into its old buildings. Maybe take a boat into the calm waters of Paraty Bay, visit secluded beaches and islands, or head into the surrounding rainforest to discover waterfalls and natural swimming pools. There’s plenty to do, but just as much reason to slow down and enjoy the atmosphere of this charming town.

Continue to Ilha Grande, a beautiful, largely car-free island where Atlantic rainforest meets a coastline of secluded beaches and clear waters, spending 4 nights at O Sítio Ilha Grande, a small, family-owned property on peaceful Abraãozinho Beach, surrounded by rainforest and just a short boat ride from the main village. With just nine suites, a beachfront leisure area, kayaks and stand-up paddleboards, it’s a relaxed and peaceful base from which to enjoy the island.

Your days here are free to enjoy Ilha Grande at your own pace. Walk through the rainforest to some of the island’s beautiful beaches, including the famous sands of Lopes Mendes, take to the water by kayak or SUP, or explore the bays and smaller islands by boat. You can also simply settle into the peaceful surroundings of O Sítio, with breakfast included and the beach right on your doorstep. It’s a chance to slow the pace and experience one of Brazil’s most appealing stretches of coastline without a packed schedule.

Call 01273 923100 to start planning your holiday

Travel on to Rio de Janeiro for 3 nights at Hotel Arpoador, right beside the beach between Ipanema and Copacabana. With the ocean on your doorstep and the lively neighbourhoods of Rio’s South Zone close by, it’s a relaxed base for discovering the city.

Spend a full day with your guide exploring two of Rio’s most famous landmarks. Ascend Corcovado to stand beneath Christ the Redeemer and enjoy sweeping views across the city, mountains and coastline, before continuing to Sugarloaf Mountain. Ride the cable car to the summit for panoramic views over Guanabara Bay, Rio’s beaches and the surrounding peaks.

With the rest of your time free, explore Rio at your own pace. Walk along Ipanema and Copacabana, discover the colourful streets of Santa Teresa, browse the shops and galleries of Ipanema or simply find a beachside spot to watch the city go by.

Enjoy a final leisurely morning in Rio before transferring to the airport for your flight back to the UK, bringing your journey from the waterfalls of Iguazú through Paraty and Ilha Grande to the vibrant streets and beaches of Rio to a close.

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