We're extremely excited to introduce to you the next step in our overseas trips...Brazil
From the canyons and Atlantic Forest in the South to the pristine beaches, culture and tradition of the North, Brazil has so much more than carnivals and football. This country offers a wide variety of experiences with Ecotourism and has conservation at its heart.
Brazil’s culture is a melting pot of ethnicities, everywhere we will go we will find descendants from all over the world living in harmony and creating a unique way of life which is always full of happiness!
Sunshine for days, biodiversity, vibrant culture and traditions and an intense contact with nature – lets go experience Brazil!
Looking forward to meeting you.
Rhiane, BGH Founder x
Highlights
Rio
The city is world renowned for its majestic mountains, lush green forests and the sparkling Atlantic Ocean which bathes its internationally famous beaches. Rio has some of the most spectacular scenery of anywhere on the planet.
Ilha Grande
This coastal destination is one of the most breath-taking in Brazil. A peaceful and heavenly place where we will commune with nature. The island boasts the best-preserved area of Brazil’s Atlantic Forest – one of the richest ecosystems in the world, with a biodiversity that includes endangered species such as howler monkeys!
Salvador
Is celebrated for its joy and enormous cultural wealth. In the city the past and present live in perfect harmony with a strong African heritage, one of the key pillars of Brazilian culture. This culture is alive in the music, religion, gastronomy, crafts, and people of Salvador. Delve deep into Brazil’s cultural roots.
Key Information
Location: Brazil, South America
Accommodation: 10 days and 9 nights at multiple accommodations.
Date: 23rd September 2024 to 2nd October 2024.
Trip type: Culture, Hiking, History
Style & Culture Experience
We don't just want to visit Brazil, we want to experience Brazil in an immersive trip. The itinerary is designed to have space for us to engage with all we are seeing, feeling and learning. Brazil is not only rich but a unique culture with very friendly people, always ready to share, teach and learn from visitors. With such amazing landscapes, we will have endless possibilities to admire and explore the outdoor world.
Brazil offers some of the most impactful and motivating human experiences with biodiversity on the planet, inspiring travellers and local communities. We will savour in their cultural diversity and gain insight and knowledge, spontaneously and enjoyably.
Itinerary
Day 1 -23rd September
Welcome to Brazil
Upon arrival at Rio’s Galeão–Antonio Carlos Jobim International Airport our local team will welcome you through customs. Please aim to arrive in the morning as we will begin our adventures with a tour in the afternoon - a Favela Tour at Morro de Babilonia.
We will begin our tour with spectacular views of the beaches of Leme and Copacabana and the statue of Christ the Redeemer. We will be led by an English-speaking guide from the local community who will show us around while sharing the way of life and structure of the Favelas.
We will learn about the lives of its residents, the political and social aspects behind the development of the Favelas in Rio de Janeiro. The tour includes a donation to the Morro de Babilônia Cooperative who are responsible for reforesting and social actions within the community.
This will be an eye-opening dive into the life of the Favelas, its history and culture.
Accommodation: Hotel Windsor Martinique
Day 2 - 24th September
Heart of the City
After breakfast we head out for a jam-packed day of the best Rio has to offer!
The city is famous for its annual flamboyant Carnival and Samba Parade. We’ll learn about the origins of the carnival and how its costumes, floats and atmosphere are created. We will visit different areas of the city and take in spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean, surrounding mountains and the top of Morro de Urca which stands at 220 metres. We may come across some of the area’s monkeys and birds along the way.
From Morro de Urca we will take the cable-car lift to the Sugar Loaf Hill summit, at 396 metres, where we will enjoy unparalleled 360-degree views of the surrounding areas and a unique sunset.
In the evening we’ll embark on a night tour of Rio where we will visit some typical venues with live music, experiencing the joy and fun of Rio’s nightlife. During the tour we will visit traditional bars, outdoor samba parties and clubs playing samba and forró; where locals go to dance the night away.
Accommodation: Hotel Windsor Martinique
Day 3 - 25th September
Tijuca Forest and Santa Marta Favela
In the morning, we will hike to the top of Pedra Bonita (696m), one of the most stunning summits of Rio de Janeiro. We will be treated to a unique view of the Pedra de Gávea, a majestic flat rock that is the biggest monolith next to the ocean in the world.
The trail winds through the Tijuca Rainforest National Park, one of the largest urban forests in the world, which covers more the 40 square kilometres. Keep an eye out for toucans, coatis and monkeys while learning about the history of Rio and the Tijuca Forest which includes coffee farms and reforestation efforts.
Hike Duration: 4-5hrs
Hiking Trail: 3.5km
Difficulty Level: Easy
In the afternoon we will visit the Santa Marta Favela. This favela is famous for being the location of many movies and music videos, Michael Jackson, Madonna, Alicia Keys and "Fast and Furious".We will walk the streets of the community while experiencing what life is like in this unique favela. Our tour includes a donation to the Residents' Association and the Community Garden Project.
Accommodation: Hotel Windsor Martinique
Day 4 - 26th September
Rio de Janeiro to Ilha Grande
After breakfast we will take a private transfer from Rio de Janeiro to our next location, Ilha Grande, this transfer will take around 3 hours.
Our luggage will be transferred to our hotel and as the sun sets, we will head out for a once in a lifetime experience.
We will take our traditional Polynesian canoes out to explore the waters around the island.
Paddling through these waters as the day ends, we will see gorgeous beaches, lush forests on shore and we may even observe the bioluminescence plankton which glows as it is touched.
Accommodation: Recreio de Praia
Day 5 - 27th September
Hiking on Ilha Grande
Today we will go hiking! We begin our journey from Abraão village, from there we walk along the beach before continuing up into the jungle trail which undulates through the green tropical wonderland and eventually leads us to Lopes Mendes beach.
This beach is without a doubt one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. It's fine white sand and clear water captivates all who visit, and it may just be very difficult to leave! The waves on the beach allow the perfect balance for both swimmers and experienced surfers. The beach is 2.4km long with a small creek at one end, a chapel and beautiful mosaic artwork created by Silvio Cavalheiro, on a large buoy that broke loose from a ship.
Hike Duration: 6 hrs. approx.
Hiking Trail: 12 km round-trip
Difficulty Level: Medium to Difficult
Max. Elevation: 200 m
Accommodation: Recreio de Praia
Day 6 - 28th September
Two Rivers Walk
Today we hike inland through the forest to discover the flora and fauna of the region.
We will visit Poco do Soldado waterfall and see unforgettable views of the island, its bay, and the village of Abraao.
We will be accompanied by an English-speaking guide.
Hiking Duration: 5 hrs. Approx.
Hike Trail: 16km round trip.
Difficulty Level: Medium to Difficult.
Max. Elevation: +320m / -320m
Accommodation: Recreio de Praia
Day 7 - 29th September
Ilha Grande to Salvador via Rio de Janeiro
After breakfast we take our private transfer from Ilha Grande to Rio de Janeiro by speedboat and private vehicle – this will take approximately 3hrs.
We will then take an internal flight (3hrs45) from Rio airport to Salvador where we will transfer to our hotel.
Day 8 - 30th September
Itaparica Island
Today we will embark on an adventure across the Bay of All Saints to explore Itaparica Island, a vibrant community enjoying life!
We will visit the Tereré Quilombo, an old quilombo settlement founded by people of African origin. Residents will guide us through a local orchard where we will have the opportunity to taste delicious fruits and spices.We will visit Candomblé Yard and hear about the traditions of this Afro-Brazilian religion.
Enjoy a delicious lunch while listening to some upbeat berimbau music before heading off on a historic walking tour through Itaparica’s centre.
Visit SOMAR Social Project Headquarters – an association that supports local children and youngsters. The centre offers sailing, stand-up paddle boarding, swimming and rowing. Anyone keen to give it a go?
Our final stop of the day is to a water spring “Fonte da Bica” or ’fountain of life’. The water has some medicinal properties, and the natives claim that the fountain is rejuvenating.
To end the day enjoy a beautiful sunset over the bay on our return to Salvador.
Accommodation: Pousada da Mangueira
Day 9 - 1st October
Explore Afro-Brazilian Culture
After breakfast we will dive deeper into Afro-Brazilian culture and religion. First, we will visit a Babalorixá priest to understand a bit more about this unique religion and have a direct interaction with Candomblé.
We will then meet a Capoeira Master, and with some luck have the chance to watch a practice by the students. We will be able to learn some peculiarities of this traditional martial art that combines elements of dance, acrobatics, and music and incorporates characteristics of Brazil and Bahia.
After our Capoeira experience we will take public transportation and head to the largest and most traditional fair of Salvador and neighbouring cities, the São Joaquim Fair. Exotic and unique, it is the perfect event to interact with locals, enjoy the spices and secrets of the local culture, and explore the great variety of stands dedicated to Afro-Brazilian culture.
Once we have soaked up all the sights and smells of the fair we will visit the Lacerda Elevator and take the lift to the Historical Centre.
Accommodation: Pousada da Mangueira
Day 10 - 2nd October
Farewell
After breakfast we will bid farewell to our adventures in Brazil and head to the airport in Salvador (transfer takes approximately 25 minutes.) and fly back to Rio, before heading home or onto another adventure.
What’s included
Accommodation - Twin Share Bases - Single Supplement Available
Transportation - All transportation as outlined in the itinerary.
Excursions and visits - All trips, excursions & visits as outlined in the itinerary.
Airport transfers - Airport pick up & drop off.
Internal Flight - Return flights from Rio to Salvador.
Meals - All meals as outlined in the itinerary. Breakfasts & Dinners.
Entrance Fees - National Park admissions
Guides - 24 Hours Guide Support
What’s NOT included
Flights - International
Additional excursions - Any extra trips, visits or activities NOT outlined in the itinerary.
Additional meals - Lunches & any extra food, meals or snacks NOT outlined in the itinerary.
Alcoholic beverages - Alcoholic drinks & extra beverages NOT outlined in the itinerary.
Tips & Personal expenses - Personal spending money & money for tips.
Travel insurance. - Travel insurance is compulsory for this trip.
Visa - Any personal visa which may be required for this trip.
Additional Accommodation - Any additional nights you're staying in Brazil
Additional Transfers - Transfers outside the dates of the trip.
