Best of Brazil

Best of Brazil

1,296 Views
8 Days From

$1035

$828

Best of Brazil

8 Days Starting and ending in Rio de Janeiro

Visiting: Rio de Janeiro, Paraty, Paraty – Ilha Grande, Ilha Grande

Tour operator:

Intrepid Travel

Tour code:

GGBR

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 16

Physical rating:

Low

Age range:

15-99

Tour operated in:

English

Interests:

Beach Tours

From: $1035 $828 (USD) Operator discount: -$207 -20%

NB: Prices correct on 22-Feb-2025 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Sun, sand and plenty of samba – see some of Brazil’s hottest highlights all packed together in an eight-day adventure. Start the party in Rio de Janeiro, where Copacabana, Ipanema and Christ the Redeemer all vie for your attention. Travel to the cobbled streets of Paraty, then cruise to the pristine Ilha Grande – an island where lush green rainforests meet untouched sandy beaches. You’ll have local knowledge to guide your way and plenty of time to explore at your own pace, and when it comes to free time in Brazil, all you need to know is the word ‘praia’ – beach.

Highlights

  • Let loose and samba the night away in Rio de Janeiro – South America’s party capital. Arriving in this bustling metropolis is the perfect way to start your Brazilian adventure.

  • Party down with the locals in the streets of colonial Paraty, where Portugal meets Brazil, jungle meets sea and your adventure dials up a notch.

  • After seeing its virgin rainforests, blue lagoons and splendid beaches, you’d never imagine that Ilha Grande had such a treacherous pirate history. This is true natural beauty, Brazilian style.

  • You’ll have plenty of time to choose your own adventure at Ilha Grande with two full days on the island. So if hiking, boating, kayaking or lazing on a beach is your thing, we’ve got you covered.

  • With some of Brazil's biggest icons, including Christ the Redeemer, Ipanema Beach and Sugarloaf Mountain all at your fingertips, why not consider extending your stay in colourful Rio?

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Rio De Janeiro

Location: Rio de Janeiro

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Bem-vindo! Welcome to Brazil. Your experience begins at 1 pm today with an optional leader-led orientation walk around Rio. In the evening, there will be an important meeting at 6 pm where you’ll talk through the details of your Brazilian adventure. Rio locals like to say that 'God made the world in six days, the seventh he devoted to Rio'. In this heaving metropolis, set against Guanabara Bay and surrounded by the slopes of Sugarloaf and Corcovado, it's hard not to be caught up in the passion of the city's residents, known as Cariocas. Known for both the glitz and glamour of Carnaval and the contrasting image of the favelas, Rio is a fascinating and diverse centre of all things colour. Tonight, after your briefing, why not keep the introductions going with an optional welcome dinner with your group.

Included Activities:
-Rio de Janeiro - Orientation Walk

Day 2-3: Paraty

Location: Paraty

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel

This morning, take a shared transfer from Rio to Paraty (approximately 4 .5 hours). The remainder of today and rest of tomorrow are yours to explore Paraty. Admire the architecture as you wander along the town’s cobbled, pedestrian-only streets, which become partly covered in seawater at high tide. You might prefer to explore the rainforest trails in the surrounding national park, which is rich in wildlife and waterfalls. Otherwise, a boat trip on the island-studded bay for scenic views along the coast could be on the cards, or join an excursion to the nearby village of Trindade, which boasts some of Brazil’s best beaches. The best thing is you get to decide.

Optional Activities:
-Paraty - Boat trip
-Paraty - Trindade excursion

Day 4: Paraty – Ilha Grande

Location: Paraty – Ilha Grande

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today, jump on a shared transfer to Angra followed by a ferry to the island getaway of Ilha Grande, taking approximately 5 hours, in total. This paradise of pristine beaches and rainforest has been largely untouched by development. Previously a pirate's lair, a leper colony and a prison for violent criminals, the island has a fascinating history to uncover. The ruins of the prison can still be seen today. Once you’ve arrived and got your bearings, head to the beach – it’s calling your name.

Day 5-6: Ilha Grande

Location: Ilha Grande

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Rise and shine in paradise, ready to enjoy two full free days exploring Ilha Grande. Wander along rainforest trails to beautiful and remote beaches – Lopes Mendes and Aventureiro Beach are two of the best. You could book yourself in on an optional boat trip out to the Blue Lagoon, beach-hopping through Ilha Grande Bay along the way. There are plenty of opportunities to stop for fresh seafood, and to swim and snorkel in the clear water. Or just plonk yourself on the beach with a good book and laze the day away. In the evening, why not meet up with some of your travel pals and relax with a caipirinha at a restaurant or bar in Vila do Abraao – the island’s main town.

Optional Activities:
-Ilha Grande - Boat trip to the Blue Lagoon
-Hike to Lopes Mendes beach - Free

Day 7: Rio De Janeiro

Location: Rio de Janeiro

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Bid farewell to this slice of heaven as you board a boat to the small port of Mangaratiba today, and from here, take a minivan back to Rio de Janeiro. The total journey should take about 3.5 hours, so you should be back in Rio in the early to mid-afternoon. The rest of the day is free to explore the city or simply hit up Copacabana and relax. Tonight, get together with your travel crew for a night of food, drinks and some samba – speak to your local leader who’ll have some great recommendations for what to do tonight.

Optional Activities:
-Rio de Janeiro - Sugarloaf Mountain 3 (Admission Fee)
-Rio de Janeiro - Botanical Gardens admission fee
-Rio de Janeiro - Santa Teresa tramcar
-Rio de Janeiro - Maracana football game (schedule dependent)
-Rio de Janeiro - Christ the Redeemer (entrance)

Day 8: Rio De Janeiro

Location: Rio de Janeiro

Meals Included: Breakfast

With no activities planned for today, you are free to leave the accommodation at any time, provided you comply with the hotel’s internal check-out policies. That doesn’t mean your adventure has to come to an end! If you would like to continue soaking up the sun in Rio, we’ll be happy to book additional accommodation (subject to availability).

Optional Activities:
-Rio de Janeiro - Total Rio Tour Combo 1: Santa Teresa, Corcovado, Christ & Copacobana

What's Included

What's Not Included

  • Tipping and Gratuities

  • International Travel

Included Activities

  • Rio de Janeiro - Orientation Walk

Transport

  • Boat , Ferry , Private vehicle , Public bus , Taxi , Van

Accommodation

  • The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline only and may change. On some occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our preferred accommodation. In these cases, we will use a similar standard of accommodation.
  • Throughout the trip, we request that our properties prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However, this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination or on some trips, have use of shared day rooms until all rooms are available.

Important Information

  • 1.A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights of your trip and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information
  • 2.This trip starts with an Orientation Walk on Day 1 at 1 pm.
  • 3.Full passport details are required at the time of booking in order to purchase tickets to certain sites. Additionally on certain trips it's needed to book bus, train or flight tickets. Delays in providing this information may result in booking fees or changes to your itinerary.

Mode of Transport

  • Boat , Ferry , Private vehicle , Public bus , Taxi , Van

Check out our Q&As

  • Is this trip right for you

    At certain times of year temperatures can be high in Brazil, but don’t let the heat keep you from exploring! Just make sure you use sun protection, wear layers to combat the heat, and drink plenty of water.

    While the crew will do their best to follow the itinerary, variations may occur due to weather or local conditions. A sense of humour and flexibility will ensure you have a fun, relaxing trip through this beautiful part of the world, no matter what happens.

    We've sourced our accommodation very carefully and picked the best possible accommodations in line with the Intrepid style of travel, but please note that service and accommodation in Brazil may differ from standards at home.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Intrepid Travel has been taking travellers around the world for over 30 years

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Since 2002, The Intrepid Foundation has supported over 130 organisations across the world. We’re creating positive impact through the joy of travel, community and connection.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Over 50% of traveller travel solo with Intrepid. You can choose to share a room with another solo travelle of the same sex for no additional charge, or choose to pay a single supplement if you’d like your own room. Please request this when booking, and we will secure you a single supplement wherever possible. Please note, if you are booking a last-minute trip, it may be harder for us to secure a single room

Reviews of this operator

Maroochy Dazza (Google Reviewer)  

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LivvyGrace 4 (Google Reviewer)  

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I have just come back home after doing Intrepid's 10-day Vietnam Express Northbound tour. What a SUPERB tour. We saw lots and did lots, it was jam-packed full of sights and activities. Our tour leader, Tam, was the best ever. Very knowledgeable, organised and lots of fun too. The other 10 people on the group were all lovely. The places we visited were very interesting. We even visited local homes and ate just like the local people do. I highly recommend Intrepid to anyone considering touring a new country. This was my 5th tour with them and they have consistently been fantastic.

Jack Edwards (Google Reviewer)  

I have travelled with Intrepid...

03-Jun-2024

I have travelled with Intrepid a number of times now and can't recommend them enough. The trips are always exciting, full of history and immersive in the culture and environment. The office staff are great too and always happy to help with any questions you might have. Everywhere I have gone with the company has been different but the guides and itinerary have always been excellent and full of knowledge and passion for their country. Add in the social responsibility angle the company has and it top quality ethical practice and you can't go wrong

Jo Clayton (Google Reviewer)  

I recently went on an...

15-Mar-2024

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Lisa Hosking (Google Reviewer)  

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Just got back from Southern India and I have to say our guide was great! Greeted by Sebi’s lovely smile each morning. His knowledge was great and his interpersonal skills were amazing! Managed the group well and took great care of us all! Thank you!

D' ARTICULATE (Google Reviewer)  

They offer some great deals...

11-Jan-2025

They offer some great deals and group travel itineraries without the flights but will include them if needed by the traveller ; leaving one to choose a more personal holiday stance or exploration & time schedule too. Neat!

1 Select your preferred date

Sunday - Sunday

Mar 30, 2025 - Apr 06, 2025
$1100 $1045 (USD)

Operator discount: -$55 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

Apr 06, 2025 - Apr 13, 2025
$1085 $922 (USD)

Operator discount: -$163 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

Apr 13, 2025 - Apr 20, 2025
$1035 $828 (USD)

Operator discount: -$207 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

Apr 27, 2025 - May 04, 2025
$1045 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

May 11, 2025 - May 18, 2025
$1050 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

May 25, 2025 - Jun 01, 2025
$1035 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

Jun 15, 2025 - Jun 22, 2025
$1045 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

Jun 29, 2025 - Jul 06, 2025
$1035 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

Jul 20, 2025 - Jul 27, 2025
$1035 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

Aug 10, 2025 - Aug 17, 2025
$1035 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

Aug 24, 2025 - Aug 31, 2025
$1035 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

Sep 07, 2025 - Sep 14, 2025
$1090 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

Sep 14, 2025 - Sep 21, 2025
$1045 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

Sep 21, 2025 - Sep 28, 2025
$1075 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

Sep 28, 2025 - Oct 05, 2025
$1075 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

Oct 12, 2025 - Oct 19, 2025
$1145 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

Oct 19, 2025 - Oct 26, 2025
$1075 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

Oct 26, 2025 - Nov 02, 2025
$1075 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

Nov 02, 2025 - Nov 09, 2025
$1115 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

Nov 16, 2025 - Nov 23, 2025
$1120 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

Nov 23, 2025 - Nov 30, 2025
$1115 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

Nov 30, 2025 - Dec 07, 2025
$1115 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

Dec 07, 2025 - Dec 14, 2025
$1115 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

Dec 14, 2025 - Dec 21, 2025
$1115 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

Dec 21, 2025 - Dec 28, 2025
$1125 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

Jan 11, 2026 - Jan 18, 2026
$1145 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

Jan 18, 2026 - Jan 25, 2026
$1170 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

Jan 25, 2026 - Feb 01, 2026
$1145 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

Feb 01, 2026 - Feb 08, 2026
$1050 (USD)

Tuesday - Tuesday

Feb 24, 2026 - Mar 03, 2026
$1050 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

Mar 01, 2026 - Mar 08, 2026
$1050 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

Mar 08, 2026 - Mar 15, 2026
$1050 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

Mar 22, 2026 - Mar 29, 2026
$1145 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

Apr 05, 2026 - Apr 12, 2026
$1100 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

Apr 12, 2026 - Apr 19, 2026
$1100 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

Apr 19, 2026 - Apr 26, 2026
$1050 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

May 03, 2026 - May 10, 2026
$1050 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

May 10, 2026 - May 17, 2026
$1100 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

May 24, 2026 - May 31, 2026
$1100 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

Jun 14, 2026 - Jun 21, 2026
$1100 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

Jun 28, 2026 - Jul 05, 2026
$1100 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

Jul 05, 2026 - Jul 12, 2026
$1050 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

Jul 19, 2026 - Jul 26, 2026
$1100 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

Aug 09, 2026 - Aug 16, 2026
$1100 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

Aug 23, 2026 - Aug 30, 2026
$1100 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

Sep 06, 2026 - Sep 13, 2026
$1145 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

Sep 13, 2026 - Sep 20, 2026
$1145 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

Sep 27, 2026 - Oct 04, 2026
$1145 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

Oct 04, 2026 - Oct 11, 2026
$1050 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

Oct 11, 2026 - Oct 18, 2026
$1190 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

Oct 25, 2026 - Nov 01, 2026
$1190 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

Nov 01, 2026 - Nov 08, 2026
$1190 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

Nov 08, 2026 - Nov 15, 2026
$1190 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

Nov 15, 2026 - Nov 22, 2026
$1050 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

Nov 22, 2026 - Nov 29, 2026
$1190 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

Nov 29, 2026 - Dec 06, 2026
$1190 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

Dec 06, 2026 - Dec 13, 2026
$1190 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

Dec 13, 2026 - Dec 20, 2026
$1190 (USD)

Wednesday - Wednesday

Dec 16, 2026 - Dec 23, 2026
$1050 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

Jan 17, 2027 - Jan 24, 2027
$1050 (USD)

Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    Intrepid Travel allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 56 days before the start of the tour.

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Intrepid Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform intrepid travel, 56 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Intrepid Travel requires a minimum deposit of 400 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 56 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of intrepid travel charges.

    Up to 56 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 55 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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