Tour: Brazil Explorer

This two week itinerary follows the coast from Rio de Janeiro to Salvador, Olinda and Natal. Each of these cities has important traces from the colonial era and access to very diverse beaches. An extension to the Amazon, the Pantanal or to the Iguassu Falls can easily be arranged.

Our journey starts in Rio de Janeiro, With excursions to Sugarloaf Mountain and to the Statue of Christ on Corcovado. Copacabana and Ipanema are Rio's most famous beaches.

Some 750 miles up the coast from Rio is Salvador de Bahia, a surprising amalgam of sea, samba and African influences in a Portuguese colonial setting. The Pelourinho historical heart of Salvador has been beautifully restored over the last decade. We recommend an excursion across to the island of Itaparica. The flight from Salvador to Recife takes just 1hour and 15 minutes and on arrival you will be met and driven to your hotel in Olinda.

Olinda was founded in 1537 and is home to some important churches, convents and monasteries dating from the C16th. There are also a number of museums which are worth visiting. One of the best beaches is at Porto de Galinhas, about an hour's drive from Recife. If you have a few extra days you may like to spend them here. The beaches and towering sand dunes are the main attraction of Natal. We transfer you to beach front accommodation at Ponte Negra, 6 miles South of the city for three relaxing days until you return to Rio de Janeiro.

Last Updated: Tuesday May 13 2008