Iguazu, Gold Rush and Beaches

This private full day tour takes you to the two major landmarks of Rio, in fact of Brazil: Corcovado and Sugarloaf Mountain. Begin the tour by riding the cog-wheel train up Corcovado Mountain to reach the spectacular view at the summit. Marvel at the Christ the Redeemer statue, built at the top of the mountain and gaze down on the entire city of Rio de Janeiro. Next visit the famous Sugarloaf Mountain, reaching the top by cable car. From your view at the top look out on the glittering waters of the Atlantic Ocean and the beautiful beaches below. (08:00-16:00, Private Activity, Lunch not included)

Take this opportunity to pick up some sizzling culinary skills from a cooking class in Rio. The class utilises ingredients easily available back home at almost any supermarket. Discover the rich heritage of Brazilian flavors, enriched by indigenous, African and Portuguese influences. Pick up the basics of typical Brazilian meals such as the delicious feijoada or meat stew with black beans, served with rice, oranges, farofa (toasted cassava flour) and greens. The deliciously creamy Bahian moqueca served over rice with a side of farofa is also on the menu. This traditional seafood dish is cooked with fish and shrimps in a spicy coconut milk stew. Finish off your Brazilian feast with brigadeiro, Brazil’s very own chocolate dessert or the fresh guava and cheese dessert, better known as Cuajada con Mealo. (Half Day; Time of Day: Afternoon; Duration: 4 hrs; Shared Activity; Private Transfer; Mon to Fri: classes at 4:00pm, Sat: class at 11:00am).

Enhance your visit to the Brazilian side of Iguazu Waterfalls with an exciting and scenic helicopter ride. Fly over the river taking in the stunning might of the Devil’s Throat Waterfall and the beauty spread out below you. Keep your camera at the ready whilst breathing in this unique experience. This ten minute soul-enriching adventure guarantees lifetime memories. (Duration 10 minutes, Group Activity, Maximum 7 people, Combined with the Visit to the Brazilian Side of Iguazu Waterfalls Activity)

Gain a deep perspective of the breathtaking waterfalls, recently named one of the seven natural wonders of the world. Three sets of trails and walkways allow you to explore the natural beauty of the falls and the surrounding jungle as you walk through the national park. On the lower circuit take in a view of the falls from below, feeling part of the natural surroundings, and sensing their great magnitude. The upper circuit takes you above the falls where you get a different perspective of the same waterfalls you just saw on the lower circuit. And no visit to Iguazu is complete without viewing the Devil’s Throat Falls, where you stand just feet from the thundering cascades of water tumbling to depths below. (09:00 to 15:00. Private Activity)

On this half day tour, take in the incredible panoramic view of Iguazu Waterfalls. From the amazing vantage points in Brazil, marvel at the sheer beauty and amazing magnitude of this natural wonder. (Duration 4 hours, if you have a preference for timing, please tell your travel consultant at the time of booking, otherwise our team will schedule the tour at the best available time. Private Activity)

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. Arriving in Tiradentes, soak in the Serra de São José mountain surrounds, and enjoy this retreat named after the local dentist turned national hero, Joaquim Jose da Silva Xavier. Famous for its artisans and craftspeople, get a glimpse of the town from the main shaded square, replete with gilded churches, renovated houses, and carved fountains, which feature baroque colonial architecture.

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 left its mark on Brazil’s cultural history. Visit museums that showcase local craftworks and the finest examples of the country’s baroque art. Next, head to São João del Rei, a former mining region, and now a bustling university town steeped in religious traditions. As you walk around 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 replete with regional dishes, and get a taste of Mineira cuisine. Enroute, stop by the town of Congonhas that was influenced by Brazil’s Gold Rush. Visit the Basilica do Senor Bom Jesus do Matosinhos perched on a hilltop, and enjoy panoramic vistas of its beautiful surroundings. Admire 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, which also houses six other chapels, browse the gilded interiors adorned with various soapstone sculptures, depicting scenes from the scriptures. As evening falls, continue onwards to Ouro Preto, which is part of Brazil’s Circuit of Gold. The following day, as you navigate Ouro Preto’s picturesque mountainous city through its steep winding streets, admire its skyline dotted with numerous ornate churches. Laze about, as you indulge in a spot of people watching at the central cobbled plaza and soak in the architectural attractions, museums, and the Old Town. Later, enroute Mariana, visit the Passagem Mine – Brazil’s oldest, and the world’s largest public mine, and gain valuable insight into the region’s rich mining history. Here, you can ride a mine cart, and also take a dip in an underground lake. After lunch, continue to Mariana, nestled amid rolling hills, and enjoy its baroque colonial architecture, which features art nouveau, wrought iron accents. Pass by renovated 18th century buildings with their boutiques and art studios. In the main square, marvel at well-preserved churches, which showcase themes of sensual romanticism through Aleijadinho’s elaborate carvings. You can also visit museums of music and sacred art collections, plus experience weekend organ concerts! On your final day, depart for Belo Horizonte. (Private Activities & Transfers; Fitness level: Moderate)

Relish a hearty breakfast before you set off to explore the many stunning beaches that this picturesque island has to offer. Take your pick of two different yet interesting options to make the most of your stay on this gorgeous slice of paradise. Start early as you hop into a boat taxi and speed away to the small but beautiful Pouso Beach. Hike across the soft sand of the beach as you wind your way along the easy trail to Lopes Mendes Beach in this self-guided tour. Alternatively, you can get off to a leisurely start and head to Lagoa Azul for a day of underwater fun in another self-guided activity. Step into the boat and relax as it speeds toward a vantage snorkeling spot between two islands. Get up close with the exotic marine life in the clear water before heading on to historical Praia da Freguesia de Santana. Explore the two beaches and Santana Church dating back to the 18th century. (Two self-guided day trips with Portuguese speaking assistance; Meals are not included; Fitness Level: Easy; Please bring along drinking water and food on the day trips.)