Itinerary Summary

Day	Place	Highlights	Hotel Options
1 - 4	Rio de Janeiro	Sugarloaf Mountain, Corcovado National Park, Christ The Redeemer	PortoBay, Hilton Rio de Janeiro Copacabana
4 - 5	Belo Horizonte	Art & Architecture, Shopping & Nightlife, Hiking	Bourbon Belo Horizonte, Fasano Belo Horizonte
5 - 6	Tiradentes	Colonial Architecture, Atlantic Forests, Festivals	Mae D’Agua, Solar da Ponte
6 - 7	Ouro Preto	Colonial Heritage, Brazilian Baroque Architecture, Specialty Museums	Pousada Minas Gerais, Hotel Pousada do Arcanjo
7 - 8	Belo Horizonte	Art & Architecture, Shopping & Nightlife, Hiking	Bourbon Belo Horizonte, Fasano Belo Horizonte
8 - 10	Recife	Colonial Heritage, Glamorous Beach, Culture & Carnivals	Atlante Plaza Hotel, Atlante Plaza Hotel
10 - 14	Fernando de Noronha	Beaches & Ecological Sanctuaries, Sustainable Tourism, Island-hopping	Pousada da Praia, Triboju
14 - 14	Rio de Janeiro	Sugarloaf Mountain, Corcovado National Park, Christ The Redeemer

Itinerary Details

Day 1 - 4

International Arrival

Transfer to your hotel

Rio de Janeiro

3 Nights

Rio de Janiero’s famous icons include Copacabana, Sugar Loaf, Samba, Ipanema, Caipirinha cocktails, beach culture and of course the magnificent subtropical rainforests.

Aerial view of Rio de Janeiro with Christ Redeemer and Corcovado Mountain, Brazil, South America

Included Activities

Private Tour of Secrets of old Rio
On this half-day walking city tour, you will gain a deep insight into the rich history of Rio de Janeiro. Visit the historic center of the city with its many monuments and spectacular buildings reflecting Rio’s history as Brazil’s capital city for almost 300 years. See the Paço Imperial, built during colonial times to serve as a residence for the Portuguese governors of Brazil, the first cathedral in the city and Cinelandia Square, so named for the many cinemas that once surrounded this plaza. (Duration: 4 hrs; Walking Tour; Private Activity)

Half Day Corcovado Tour (Cogwheel Train)
This tour takes you via cog-wheeled train to Rio’s most important highlight – ‘Corcovado’, crowned by the magnificent statue of Christ the Redeemer. Enjoy from atop some breathtaking views of the world’s most beautiful city. (Duration: 4 hrs; Private Activity)

Half Day Sugar Loaf Tour (Cable Car)
This half day tour starts in downtown Rio and takes you to Praia Vermelha to travel via cable car to the world famous Sugarloaf Mountain. After soaking in the bird’s eye view of the city and the ocean, you will not be able to resist whistling the tune – Girl from Ipanema as you wonder about nature’s fascinating artistry. (Duration: 4 hrs; Private Activity)

Half Day Visit to Botanical Garden in Rio de Janeiro
On this half-day city tour, you will visit the Botanical Garden, constructed in 1808 by Portuguese King João VI to grow spices such as nutmeg, pepper and cinnamon. Now with over 6,000 different plant species admire the diversity of Brazilian fauna. (Duration: 4 hrs; Private Activity)

Hotel Options

PortoBay – Opt 1

Room	Port Superior
Meals	Breakfast
Style	International

Hilton Rio de Janeiro Copacabana – Opt 2

Room	Windsor Atlantica - Superior
Meals	Breakfast
Style	International

Day 4 - 5

Transfer to the airport with Portuguese-speaking chauffeur

Board your flight from Rio de Janeiro to Belo Horizonte (Duration: 1 hr)

Transfer from Belo Horizonte Airport to your hotel with a guide

Belo Horizonte

1 Night

Belo Horizonte (Beautiful Horizon, or Beagá), the capital of the state of Minas Gerais lies on the western slope of the Espinhaco Mountains and is built on several hills.

a view of a city with a mountain in the background

Included Activities

Parks, Paintings, and Premises of Pampulha
Marvel at the modern Brazilian architecture of Pampulha – a fascinating neighborhood in Belo Horizonte, characterized by magnificently designed structures that are now cultural treasures! Soak up the picturesque surrounds of Pampulha’s artificial lagoon in the heart of the city, fringed by contemporary buildings courtesy Oscar Niemeyer, who took inspiration from the contours of the human body and the mountain silhouettes around. Admire the botanical gardens by Burle Marx, paintings by Portinari, and projects by a bunch of avant-garde artists that adorn these spaces. Soak up highlights such as the Pampulha Modern Ensemble complex, which includes a casino turned art museum, the St Francis of Assisi Church with its abstract facade, a ballroom, and a yacht club, all enhancing the urban landscape. Unwind by the vibrant waterfront, and drop by the famous Mineirão soccer stadium after. End your tour with a stroll in the free-form parks across town frequented by Brazilian beavers, while you nibble on local homemade cheese bread. (Half Day; Time: Morning; Duration: 3 hrs; Private Activity & Transfer; Fitness level: Moderate; This tour is unavailable on Mondays.)

Hotel Options

Bourbon Belo Horizonte – Opt 1

Room	Standard Room
Meals	Room Only
Style	International

Fasano Belo Horizonte – Opt 2

Room	Superior Room
Meals	Room only
Style	International

Day 5 - 6

Private transfer from Belo Horizonte to Tiradentes with English-speaking guide (192 km, 3 hrs)

Tiradentes

1 Night

Tiradentes is a picturesque and historic Brazilian town nestled amid the Serra de São José mountains in Minas Gerais. Named after a local dentist, and carrying the gold rush legacy, Tiradentes is now a retreat for artisans and craftspeople.

a building with a mountain in the background

Included Activities

Best of Minas Gerais Part 1/2
On the first day, begin your tour from Belo Horizonte – the delightful capital of Minas Gerais, and head toward the picturesque and historic Brazilian town of Tiradentes. Enroute, stop by Congonhas, another town that was influenced by Brazil’s Gold Rush. Visiting the Basilica do Senor Bom Jesus do Matosinhos, perched on a hilltop, and enjoy panoramic vistas of its beautiful surroundings. Marvel at this showstopper landmark that is known for life-size statues of 12 prophets from the Bible, created by the renowned Brazilian artist Aleijadinho. As you explore this complex that also houses six other chapels, browse the gilded interiors adorned with various soapstone sculptures, depicting scenes from the scriptures. Next, head to São João del Rei, a former mining region, and now a bustling university town steeped in religious traditions. Ambling about the historical center, see churches, monuments, fountains and colonial mansions flaunting baroque architecture. You could also witness the centuries-old tradition of the ringing of church bells. Savor a buffet lunch of regional dishes, getting a taste of Mineira cuisine. Post a hearty meal, head to Tiradentes, nestled amid the Serra de São José mountain surrounds. Known for its role in the independence revolution thanks to local dentist Joaquim Jose da Silva Xavier, Tiradentes has left its mark on Brazil’s cultural history. During the weekend, you can experience traveling on the vintage Maria Fumaça train that runs along the romantic route between São João del Rei and Tiradentes.

Hotel Options

Mae D’Agua – Opt 1

Room	Standard Plus
Meals	Room only
Style	Boutique

Solar da Ponte – Opt 2

Room	Standard
Meals	Room only
Style	Boutique

Day 6 - 7

Private transfer from Tiradentes to Ouro Preto with English-speaking guide (160 km, 2.5 hrs)

Ouro Preto

1 Night

Ouro Preto is a 17th century colonial city framed by the Serra do Espinhaço mountains in Minas Gerais. Famous for creating one of the biggest gold rushes of humanity, and Brazil’s independence movement, this is now a lively university town.

a large white building with Ouro Preto in the background

Included Activities

Best of Minas Gerais Part 2/2
Explore Tiradentes, nestled amid the Serra de São José mountain surrounds. Known for its role in the independence revolution thanks to local dentist Joaquim Jose da Silva Xavier, Tiradentes has made a mark in Brazil’s cultural history. Visit a couple of museums that showcase local craftworks, and the finest examples of the country’s baroque art. After a typical Mineira lunch, continue to Mariana, nestled amid rolling hills, and enjoy its baroque colonial architecture that features art nouveau wrought iron accents. Pass by renovated 18th century buildings that house boutiques and art studios. In the main square, marvel at well-preserved churches that showcase themes of sensual romanticism through Aleijadinho’s elaborate carvings. You can also browse museums of music and sacred art collections, plus experience weekend organ concerts! The following day, navigating Ouro Preto’s picturesque mountainous city through steep winding streets, admire its skyline dotted with numerous ornate churches. Laze about people watching at the central cobbled plaza and soak in the architectural attractions, museums, and the Old Town. By late afternoon, depart for Belo Horizonte. (2 Full Days; Private Activity & Transfer; Fitness level: Moderate; Churches and museums are closed on Mondays)

Hotel Options

Pousada Minas Gerais – Opt 1

Room	Superior
Meals	Room Only
Style	Boutique

Hotel Pousada do Arcanjo – Opt 2

Room	Superior
Meals	Room only
Style	Boutique

Day 7 - 8

Private transfer from Ouro Preto to Belo Horizonte with English-speaking guide (186 km, 3 hrs)

Belo Horizonte

1 Night

Belo Horizonte (Beautiful Horizon, or Beagá), the capital of the state of Minas Gerais lies on the western slope of the Espinhaco Mountains and is built on several hills.

Hotel Options

Bourbon Belo Horizonte – Opt 1

Room	Standard Room
Meals	Room only
Style	International

Fasano Belo Horizonte – Opt 2

Room	Superior Room
Meals	Room only
Style	International

Day 8 - 10

Transfer to the airport with Portuguese-speaking chauffeur

Board your flight from Belo Horizonte to Recife (Duration: 3.3 hrs)

Transfer from Recife Airport to your hotel with a guide

Recife

2 Nights

The glamorous Brazilian coastal city of Recife gets its name from the magnificent coral reefs lining the turquoise and topaz shaded ocean.

Included Activities

Recife by Starlight
Savor the beauty of Recife, bathed in the colors of the night. Your tour will begin at Boa Viagem, the most lively beach in northeastern Brazil. The beach is magnificently lit-up at night, setting the tone for its lively nightlife. Let your hair down at the many beachfront cafes, restaurants and hotels in the upscale waterfront area. Enjoy the cool and crisp breeze of the ocean as you continue downtown to bridges on the Capibaribe and Beberibe rivers, decked in neon-colored lights. Gaze upon Recife, illuminated by thousands of city lights, making for a spectacular view. (Half Day; Duration: 4 hrs)

Highlights of Recife and Olinda
Take a day to explore the gorgeous city of Recife, which is replete with interesting attractions and panoramic beaches with coconut huts, sea green waters and natural pools. Enroute, take breaks at scenic José Estelita Pier, the 17th century Five Point Fortress , the atmospheric ancient district of Recife, and the fascinating Park of Sculptures by Francisco Brennand located on the pier of the harbor. You will then travel to the island of St. Antonio, and stop at Republic Square to admire the Palace of Princess Fields. Marvel at the Theatre of Santa Isabel, the Court of Justice, and the gorgeous Golden Chapel just next door. Afterwards, journey to Olinda, the very first capital of Pernambuco, a city decreed as a ‘Cultural and Natural Heritage of Mankind’ site by UNESCO. Wander through charming streets built with irregular stones and lined with colorful houses, and visit ancient churches, the monastery of St. Benedict, the Misericórdia Square and the Cathedral, immersing yourself in the historical beauty of the region. (Full day; Duration: 8 hrs)

Hotel Options

Atlante Plaza Hotel – Opt 1

Room	Standard
Meals	Room only
Style	International

Atlante Plaza Hotel – Opt 2

Room	Executive
Meals	Room only
Style	International

Day 10 - 14

Transfer to the airport with a Portuguese-speaking chauffeur

Board your flight from Recife to Fernando de Noronha (Flight duration: 1.1 hr)

Transfer from Fernando de Noronha Airport to your hotel with a guide

Fernando de Noronha

4 Nights

The Fernando de Noronha Archipelago is composed of twenty islands covering an area of 26 square km. The main island, with a size of 17 square km and with 545 km of beautiful coastline, is the only inhabited island, and has a population of 3,000 people.

an island in the middle of a body of water

Included Activities

Exploratory Tour of Fernando de Noronha
Head out from your hotel on this exciting all day exploration of the island. Settle into a comfortable 4×4 vehicle as you make your way across the length and breadth of the isle. Savor the gorgeous natural beauty of this tropical paradise as you drive past scenic vistas. Stretch your legs on the white sandy beaches you visit and dive in for a refreshing swim in the Atlantic Ocean. You can enjoy snorkeling in spots known for their rich marine life. Peek at your reflection in the crystal clear water of the beautiful natural pools you encounter. Relish a leisurely lunch at a restaurant of your choice before resuming your tour. Soak in the historic ambiance at famous landmarks and savor stunning views of the island and the bay from vantage lookout points. For the perfect ending to a great day, view the beautiful sunset before returning to your hotel. (Full Day; Duration: 8 hrs; Fitness Level: Easy. Lunch not included. Please wear comfortable shoes and bring along cap, sunscreen, and diving or snorkeling equipment -available for rent-).

Hike to Mirante dos Golfinhos Viewpoint
Start early in the morning as you set off on your hike to the top of Mirante dos Golfinhos. Walk for about a mile (1.5 km) along the Dolphin Trail to reach the vantage lookout point. Rest a while as you drink in the scenic beauty of the picturesque bay and its numerous rocky formations. Apart from the breathtaking vistas, the early morning hours are a good time to spot the dolphins that inhabit these waters. If you are lucky, you will get to see these docile mammals frolic in the water as they show off their acrobatic skills. Enjoy the views to your heart’s content before starting on the walk back. (Half Day; Fixed Time: Yes; Time of Day: 0500; Duration: 2 hrs; Fitness Level: Easy.)

Hotel Options

Pousada da Praia – Opt 1

Room	Standard Ocean View Ground Floor
Meals	Room only
Style	Boutique

Triboju – Opt 2

Room	Deluxe Suite
Meals	Room only
Style	Boutique

Day 14 - 14

Transfer to airport with Portuguese-speaking chauffeur

Board your flight from Fernando de Noronha to Rio de Janeiro via Recife (Duration: 5 hrs)

Rio de Janeiro

0 Nights

Rio de Janiero’s famous icons include Copacabana, Sugar Loaf, Samba, Ipanema, Caipirinha cocktails, beach culture and of course the magnificent subtropical rainforests.

International Departure

Price & Inclusions

Option 1 From $ 7,460 /person
Option 2 From $ 8,955 /person

Prices are in USD and exclude international flights. This trip price is based on low season rates for accommodation and other applicable services, and may change depending on availability, currency fluctuations and number of people traveling together. For high season prices, please contact us with your exact travel dates and preferences.

Price Includes

Accommodation and meals, as specified in the itinerary
Activities and excursions, as specified in the itinerary
Transportation services, as specified in the itinerary
Your Trip Coordinator: a 24/7 point of contact supporting you during your trip
Carbon emissions offsetting for your trip

Not Included

Entrance fees and meals, unless mentioned in the itinerary description
Tips and personal expenses
Visa and tourism fees
Travel, health, and cancellation insurance
International airfare

Colonial Brazil and Fernando de Noronha

Itinerary Summary

Ideal For

Itinerary Details

Rio de Janeiro

Belo Horizonte

Tiradentes

Ouro Preto

Belo Horizonte

Recife

Fernando de Noronha

Rio de Janeiro

Price & Inclusions

Price Includes

Not Included