The Wonders of Brazil tour covers the most iconic sights of the Amazon rainforest, Rio de Janeiro and the Iguazu Falls. The tour combines Brazil's cinematic landscapes, kaleidoscopic culture, the head-spinning biodiversity, and constant expressions of joie de vivre in a carefully designed itinerary.
One of the world's wonders, the Amazon has fascinated travelers and dreamers since its discovery in 1542 by Francisco de Orellana. The 3,900 mile-long Amazon River and its tributaries is the last great wilderness of its kind. It contains over half the world's species of birds and thousands of species of mammals and plants. It is populated by the river people and tribes of Indians who crisscross this vast system of rivers, streams and canals in their wooden boats and canoes. This truly is a voyage of a lifetime, an unforgettable journey sailing the Earth's mightiest river into areas penetrated by only a privileged few. As the comfortable expedition ship docks along the river shore, experienced naturalists will take us into remote estuaries in the Amazon rainforest. We will explore the pristine wilderness areas teeming with wildlife and meet the indigenous people, and at the day's end, we'll enjoy the comforts of our floating hotel, wholesome meals prepared with fresh ingredients and naturalists' talks on flora and fauna of the Amazon.
Flanked by gorgeous mountains, white sand beaches and verdant rainforests, Rio de Janeiro enjoys one of the most spectacular settings of any metropolis in the world. As one of the world's most vibrant urban landscapes, nestled picturesquely between jungle and sea, the city is famous for its tropical mix of beach vibe, samba music, football fervor, and of course the Carnival. The residents of Rio, known as Cariocas, have perfected the art of living well: from the world-famous beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema to the scenic viewpoints of Corcovado and Sugar Loaf, the open-air cafes and neighborhood barbecues seduce the visitors, as much as they are enjoyed by locals. While we're staying at an oceanfront luxury hotel, we'll get a chance to experience the best of Rio: Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf Mountain, a colorful samba show, Tijuca Forest, and a churrascarias barbeque at a neighborhood cafe in Santa Teresa. There will also be time to relax and people-watch on the famous beaches.
Iguazu Falls redefine the idea of Mother Nature's power, and the torrent thundering over the edges of cliffs is one of the greatest spectacles on Earth. One of the planet's most awe-inspiring sights, the Iguazu Falls are simply breath-taking. The 275 falls are 2 miles wide and 260 feet high, which makes them wider than Victoria, higher than Niagara, and more beautiful than either. Neither words nor photographs do the falls justice; they must be seen and heard in person. The view at the precipice is hypnotizing. We will be experiencing the Iguazu Falls on a multi-sensory level: roaring falls, multiple rainbow arcs, drenching mist, and in the distance, parrots and hawks cruising over a deep, green jungle. Our experience will be enhanced by staying at the only hotel located inside the National Park which will allow us for appreciating the falls without the crowds, before and after the park closes.
