Days 1-5
Depart on an overnight flight to Rio de Janeiro. On arrival our guide will take you on a short introductory orientation walk of the surrounding streets and beachfront. Next morning you have a full day guided tour to the statue of Christ the Redeemer perched high on Corcovado mountain for dramatic views over the city, the lagoon, the sweep of Guanabara Bay and its beaches. You visit the colonial centre, Sambadromo, the cathedral and enjoy a cablecar ride to Sugarloaf for sunset as dusk falls and the city lights come on. Following days free to explore the art galleries and museums, discover the music, cuisine, shopping and lifestyle of Rio de Janeiro. Contact us for further suggestions. (B)

Day 6-7
Morning flight to Salvador da Bahia. The exotic cuisine, people and culture reflect the influences of colonial history, also seen in the music, painting and literature. Full day guided tour to explore the markets, churches and squares of the Pelourinho district, World Heritage Site, whose cobbled streets are a centre for galleries, shops and cafés. (B)

Days 8-12
Transfer to Praia do Forte Tivoli EcoResort (B,D) or Pousada in the Village (B), to experience an idylic tropical community on the seafront. Enjoy walking along miles of empty beach, sunbathing, sailing and watersports. Explore the small fishing village with an old church, pedestrian streets, a variety of shops and the turtle conservation project.

Day 13
Transfer to Salvador airport for your return flight, arriving home the following day (Day 14).

Optional - Iguassu Falls

Days 6-7
Morning flight from Rio to Iguassu Falls for two nights at Hotel das Cataratas, overlooking the thundering waterfalls, surrounded by tropical rainforest. Tour to visit the Argentinian side for walks among the miryad of islands and trails (B).

Days 8
Continue the tour with the flight to Salvador.