...Trip idea
The Beauty of Brazil
Uncover the beauty of Brazil on a trip that will inspire and mesmerise you in equal turns through its mighty jungles, thundering waterfalls, tropical islands, verdant coastline and vibrant cities.
AMAZON IMMERSION
Start your adventure in Brazil with a bang – heading directly to the Amazon rainforest – the world’s largest tropical rainforest, known for its incredible biodiversity, extraordinary wildlife, swirling rivers and off-grid experiences. You will fly to Sao Paulo, connecting onto Alta Floresta landing you directly in the heart of the Amazon.
Spending few days here at a jungle lodge, you’ll have the chance to immerse yourself in the rainforest in a variety of ways. On one morning, you might rise at dawn to watch the sun flood light onto the waterways of the river on a kayak or climb the observation tower to observe the wildlife in the Amazon canopy come to life as the sun rises. On land walk the forest by day and night, each experience bringing different aspects of this ancient forest to life such as foraging medicinal herbs, admiring huge tree buttresses, spotting the white-whiskered spider monkey and jewel-like flashes of rare birds.
STAY: Cristalino Lodge
Located in the midst of Brazil’s Amazon Rainforest, fly directly to Cristalino Lodge via Alta Floresta airport with a 90-minute transfer to the sustainably built Amazonian eco-sanctuary. Located on the banks of the River Cristalino, the lodge is backed by over 10,000-hectares of pristine forest, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the untamed glory of the Amazon through responsibly curated experiences. Bungalows crafted from renewable materials are a calm sanctuary after a day’s exploring in the wild with outdoor bathrooms, verandas with hammocks and high thread count linens.
THUNDERING FALLS
Fly from one natural wonder to another as you travel back to Manaus before taking an internal flight south to the mighty Iguazu Falls to witness this astonishing feat of nature with your own eyes.
Straddling the border between Brazil and Argentina, few can fail to be impressed by the cascading sheet of water that defines Iguazu, bordered by deep jungle. There are numerous ways in which to take in the scenery. Wander the wooden walkways to a series of viewpoints; take a speedboat ride to the base of the falls, surging through cauldrons of frothing white water to the Devil’s Throat, or rise above it all on a helicopter flight which offers unrivalled views of the falls from the air. After three magical days here, travel back to Sao Paulo for the next part of your journey.
STAY: BELMOND DAS CATARATAS
Located within the Iguassu National Park, Belmond das Cataratas is just a short stroll from the sensational waterfalls giving you exclusive access from dawn to dusk. The hotel itself is the ideal place to relax, the Portuguese-colonial architecture creates breezy verandas to enjoy excellent service under giant sun-tropical palms.
PEACEFUL PARATY
From Iguazu Falls, fly back to Sao Paulo and continue by road on a two-hour drive to the UNESCO town of Paraty, a small colonial settlement characterised by cobbled streets, colourful houses, baroque churches and a historic centre, backed by dense jungle and opening out onto a series of stunning beach coves.
Located on Brazil’s Green Coast, Paraty is perfect to explore on foot, discovering the multitude of galleries and artisan shops that make this creative town so unique. But one of the best ways to experience Paraty is by boat – as it has over 65 islands and hundreds of beautiful beaches with crystal clear water. We’ll arrange a private boat cruise by schooner to discover tiny, exquisite islands, encircled by sandy beaches, with tropical jungle at their heart, with plenty of time for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkelling.
STAY: POUSADA LITERARIA
Tucked in Paraty’s colonial old town, Pousada Literária is a chic literary sanctuary. The beautifully restored mansion seamlessly blends colonial charm with modern amenities, rustic beams with vibrant design of geometric patterns and bold fabrics, and indulgent comforts. There are 28 suites and villas boasting king-sized beds with 600-thread-count linens, a serene pool, and a spa. The hotel is themed around literature, with a curated library and film collection nodding to Paraty’s book festival, and you’ll discover a wonderful collection of books in your rooms. Farm-to-table Caiçara cuisine makes staying in as tempting as exploring the cobbled streets, and the opportunity to breakfast by the pool adds to the allure.
RIO REVEALED
Welcome to one of South America’s most archetypal, dynamic and exciting cities: Rio! Facing the Atlantic Ocean, Rio de Janeiro is known for gorgeous beaches – Ipanema and Copacabana – and its iconic beacon – the 38-metre statue of Christ the Redeemer that presides over the vibrant landscapes.
With two days in Rio, you’ll have time to dip into the best of this intoxicating city – get your bearings by ascending the cog train through Rio’s forest to reach Corcovado mountain and admire Christ the Redeemer’s outstretched arms and dizzying views of the city. Another incredible viewpoint is from Sugarloaf Mountain, a smooth granite pinnacle accessed by cable car. You’ll also want to get among Rio’s fun-loving residents – either on the beach, promenade and samba clubs. Take a guided tour of arty Santa Theresa district lined with belle époque mansions and art galleries. Allow us to arrange the cherry on the cake – a scenic helicopter ride over Rio and its surrounds.
STAY: EMILIANO
On Copacabana’s golden sweep, overlooking its historic military fort, stands Emiliano Rio. This sleek ode to Brazilian modernism boasts massive retractable panels on its exterior, giving the property an ever-changing appearance. Its sculptural façade opens to light-filled, minimalist yet intimate rooms. Marble bathrooms and indulgent beds create a sense of comfort, while vibrancy is added by woven fabric-adorned floors and walls. A rooftop infinity pool offers sunbeds that overlook the ocean, blending seamlessly into the Atlantic. Emile Restaurant sits against a backdrop of a rising wall of vegetation, and it prioritises sustainability and fresh ingredients, like farofas and tropical fruits, which add striking flavours to your meal. The Santapele Spa offers refined relaxation, wrapped in discreet, attentive service.
BEACH RETREAT
From Rio, head northeast by road for a couple of hours and come to the lovely beach village of Armação dos Búzios. Made famous by Brigitte Bardot in the 60s, Búzios is a charming place to spend a few days, wandering cobbled streets visiting shops and seafood restaurants. There are also a series of gorgeous sandy bays for sunbathing, snorkelling and boat trips.
Ever since Bardot hit the beach here in the 60s with her Brazilian boyfriend, the chic town has had a certain cachet with a litany of other famous faces following her footsteps. Today it feels sophisticated, with a boho ambience making it the perfect spot for beachy bliss, balmy evenings out and the ideal spot for you to relax and think back on your Brazilian adventure from jungles and beaches, waterfalls and cities.
STAY: CASAS BRANCAS
Decorated in subtle Mediterranean style, Casas Brancas is a beautiful beachside bolthole, overlooking the Bay of Armação in the small village of Búzios. One of the first hotels to open when tourists discovered this natural enclave, Casa Brancas is perfectly located by the beach and also close by to shops and restaurants. The Suites have wonderful sea views with spacious, greenery encased terraces that make it incredibly easy to relax at the end of your tour of Brazil.
Stephanie Carthy
Personal Travel Designer
01488 689700 stephanie.carthy@baileyrobinson.com Read Stephanie’s profile
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