Brasil!

Emerald green mountains tumbling into a translucent sea, colorful towns with colonial architecture, white-sand beaches, dolphin-filled bays, and even a fjord—the dazzling stretch of Brazil’s Atlantic Coast from Sao Paulo to Rio de Janeiro is one of this country’s most spectacular regions. Our adventure is an active discovery of Brazil’s vibrant cultural and natural wonders. We witness traditional lifestyles in remote fishing villages, paddle kayaks along secluded beaches, hike to hidden waterfalls, explore the stunning colonial city of Paraty, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and succumb to the enticing charms of Rio—samba dancing included! Our post-trip extension brings us to the celebrated world of the Pantanal, renowned for its fabulous birdlife and exotic wildlife.

Itinerary at a Glance

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Days 1-3
Sao Paulo / Picinguaba

After meeting in Sao Paulo, we head to Picinguaba, a fishing village set on a beautiful bay on Brazil’s verdant Atlantic Coast. From here we explore the mangroves of the Atlantic Coastal Rainforest, with its endangered species and stunning birds, and hike through lost villages along the coast. At a quilombo, an old slave settlement, we witness traditional dances and savor a lunch of feijoada.

Days 4-6
Saco do Mamangua / Paraty

Boarding ocean kayaks (no previous experience necessary), we paddle the Saco do Mamangua fjord to our lodge nestled in the rainforest, the perfect spot to enjoy a caipirinha on the deck overlooking the fjord. After enjoying a coffee with a local boat builder, we paddle to a spot where a secret trail leads to a lovely waterfall (bring your swimsuit!). A short journey by boat across a bay where dolphins leap brings us to the vibrant colonial town of Paraty. Our explorations here reveal myriad waterfalls, traces of Brazil’s historic gold trail, the wonderful flora of the Serra da Bocaina, and the charms of enchanting Paraty, where brightly colored boats bob in the harbor.

Days 7-9
Rio de Janeiro

In fascinating Rio, our base is in the historic Santa Teresa district, haunt of writers and artists. We visit Sugar Loaf Mountain and the statue of Christ the Redeemer, set high atop Corcovado Mountain, and stroll the beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema. Depart on Day 9, or join our Pantanal Extension.

For a more complete description, Download Full Trip Brochure

What the Trip is Like

This trip is rated Level 3, moderate, according to our trip rating system. It features cultural and natural history explorations, sightseeing with day walks, and sea kayaking. No previous sea kayaking experience is required, but you should be comfortable on and in the water. None of the activities described in this itinerary are considered difficult, but for your own enjoyment of the trip, we recommend that you make a special effort to be in good physical condition. Throughout the trip, we enjoy accommodations varying from charming pousadas (small local hotels) to a 5-star accommodation in Rio de Janeiro.

Explanation of Trip Levels