The Brazilian Amazon and Iguazu
Wildlife and waterfalls in Brazil
Fly into Rio de Janeiro and spend a day exploring its beaches, mountains and culture, before travelling inland to Iguazu Falls. View these incredible waterfalls from both the Brazilian and Argentinian sides, exploring the paths that take you over the waterfall’s edge or sailing on a boat underneath them. From here, head deep into the Amazon basin to explore the rainforest’s wildlife, indigenous communities and ecosystem.
Key information
| Destinations | Rio de Janeiro, Brazilian Amazon, Iguassu Falls |
|---|---|
| Activity | Nature & Wildlife, Culture |
| Physical Level | Easy |
 Season |
January - December |
Suggested itinerary
Explore colourful Rio de Janeiro
Day 1–4 in Rio de Janeiro
Is there another city on earth that can match Rio's beauty? Mountain peaks, lush forests, beautiful beaches and playful inhabitants make Rio a must-see on any Brazilian itinerary. From the famous beaches of Copacabana to edgy Botofago, Rio is the perfect bookend to a Brazil trip.
Spend several days exploring Brazil’s bustling coastal city — and home to the world’s biggest carnival. Visit the city’s famed beaches and diverse neighbourhoods, as well as the urban rainforest of Tijuca Forest. Ride the rack railway up Corcovado Mountain to see up-close the 30m-high statue of Christ the Redeemer — perhaps one of the most recognisable icons of Brazil. Then drive through Santa Teresa neighborhood to explore the area’s history and beautiful 19th and early 20th century mansions.
Don't miss
Visit Rio’s vibrant beaches
The 4km-long Copacabana beach is one of the city’s most popular, offering a vibrant and bustling atmosphere. For a less touristy experience try some of the lesser-celebrated beaches, including Barra da Tijuca Beach and Joatinga Beach.
Climb Sugarloaf Mountain
Take a relaxed cable car ride up to the top of Sugarloaf Mountain for panoramic views of Guanabana Bay, Corcovado Mountain, Santa Cruz Fortress and Rio-Niteroi Bridge.
Witness thundering Iguazu Falls
Day 5–6 in Iguassu Falls
The mighty Iguazu Falls are actually a chain of 275 smaller waterfalls, forming an awe-inspiring semi-circle of water and noise. Lying between Argentina and Brazil, the falls are an awesome sight on their own, but both sides offer excellent wildlife watching.
Explore Manaus’ concrete jungle
Day 7 in Manaus
Steamy, sultry Manaus is the entry point to the Brazilian Amazon and a huge port city, despite being more than 1,500km from the sea. This jungle is more concrete than rainforest but serves as a place to stock up on supplies before heading into the wild. If you do hang around, look out for the city’s street markets, full of fascinating jungle fruits.
Head into the wild of the Brazilian Amazon
Day 8–10 in Brazilian Amazon
The Amazon rainforest is the world's most important ecosystem, home to pristine rainforest, indigenous communities and an abundance of wildlife. Head here for remote jungle experiences, ecolodges and the chance to see piranhas, river dolphins and monkeys.
Don't miss
Go piranha fishing on the Amazon
The razor-toothed piranha is one of the Amazon’s most distinctive animals. Found throughout the Amazon, the piranha is relatively easy to catch and can be eaten, though most return the fish to the water.
Where to stay
Classic
Mirador Rio Copacabana Hotel
Situated just 700 yards from Copacabana Beach, Mirador Rio offers guests comfortable rooms, a buffet breakfast, restaurant serving local and international cuisine, sauna and fitness centre and an outdoor swimming pool boasting panoramic views of Rio de Janeiro.
Deluxe
Miramar Hotel by Windsor
Located opposite Copacabana Beach, the Miramar Hotel by Windsor features luxurious accommodation in the heart of one of Rio's most popular neighbourhoods. Guests can enjoy the outdoor green granite pool with panoramic views of the coast, fully-equipped gym, rooftop bar and restaurant.
Deluxe
Belmond Hotel das Cataratas
Overlooking the spectacular Iguazu Falls in Iguazu National Park, the Belmond Hotel das Cataratas offers guests visiting the famous waterfalls a combination of traditional Portuguese-style accommodation and luxurious, modern facilities. Guests can enjoy the tennis courts, evening entertainment, outdoor pool and grill restaurant serving Brazilian and international cuisine.
Deluxe
Anavilhanas Jungle Lodge
Nestled in the heart of the Brazilian Amazon, the stylish Anavilhanas Jungle Lodge offers 16 spacious cottages built on suspended wooden structures and surrounded by jungle. The lodge boasts an outdoor swimming pool, restaurant serving a blend of international and amazonian cuisine and a comfortable living room for guests to relax in.
Book this itinerary
This route booked with one of our specialist tour operators would cost from $1,831pp. Pricing varies by accommodation class, and can be tailored to suit your budget.
Pricing is typically inclusive of hotels, transfers, meals, and all guided excursions and activities.
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