Brazil Holidays
Cosmopolitan cities, natural wonders & colonial heritage
12 Night Itinerary from £3,663
Tamboril Tour
An introduction to the Highlights of Brazil on a journey to modern, cosmopolitan Rio de Janeiro, the magnificent Iguassu Waterfalls, the Amazon rainforest and Salvador colonial history.
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Tour Route
- Rio de Janeiro - 3 Nights
- Iguassu Falls - 2 Nights
- Manaus - 1 Night
- Amazon Lodge - 3 Nights
- Salvador da Bahia - 3 Nights
Travel Highlights
- Explore Rio de Janeiro, including Christ the Redeemer statue for superb views
- Choose from a huge range of excursions to discover authentic Rio
- Stand in awe at Latin America's greatest waterfall - The Iguassu Falls
- Venture into the Amazon rainforest and stay in a comfortable jungle lodge
- Enjoy daily rainforest excursions in search of nature and local communities
- Discover the colonial heritage of Salvador and its Afro-Portuguese traditions
- Choose to extend your stay at the idyllic Praia do Forte
This itinerary can be tailored to your preferences by our specialist advisors, who can provide a guaranteed price based on your choice of route, duration, flights, hotels, transport and excursions.
Tour Itinerary

Rio de Janeiro - 3 Nights
Day 1 - Fly to Rio de Janeiro
Day 2 - Tour of Rio de Janeiro
Day 3 - Day at Leisure in Rio de Janeiro
- Full Description
- Accommodation
Saturday, 09 December 2023
Fly to Rio de Janeiro
Take the daytime flight from the UK to Rio de Janeiro, arriving the same day. Our guide will meet you at the airport and transfer you to your chosen hotel for a 3 night stay. On arrival, your guide will take you on a walk to introduce you to the area surroundings your hotel so that you can get your bearings. This short introduction to Rio (up to one hour) will help with your orientation.
Sunday, 10 December 2023
In-depth Tour of Rio de Janeiro
We begin our tour by visiting the famous Statue of Christ the Redeemer on Corcovado Mountain where you can admire spectacular 360° views of the city, tropical forest, granite peaks and bay. From here we visit the bohemian district of Santa Teresa, once home to the rich and famous it's now occupied by galleries, writers, musicians and artists. Our journey continues into the city centre for lunch at one of Rio's oldest coffee shops, after which you visit the Cathedral and the historical district to admire the strong colonial architecture and charming atmosphere.
Optional Excursions
- Rio's Three Ecosystems
- Rio de Janeiro History tour
- Botanical Gardens & Sugar Loaf Mountain
- Art and Culture of Rio de Janeiro
- Petropolis
Monday, 11 December 2023
At Leisure in Rio de Janeiro
Today you have the flexibility to pursue your own interests and relax. Why not visit the Botanical Gardens and Sugar Loaf Mountain or visit the Royal Palaces to discover the imperial history of Rio.
Ipanema Inn Hotel
Rio de Janeiro - Tourist Hotel
The Ipanema Inn has a wonderful location in the trendy residential district of Ipanema with numerous shops, bars and restaurant and only 300 meters from the beach.
All the rooms have private facilities, free WiFi, air conditioning, cable TV and minibar. Some have private balconies. The restaurant and bar serve Brazilian specialties and exotic local drinks.

Santa Teresa Hotel
Rio de Janeiro - Deluxe Boutique
The Hotel Santa Teresa is located at the heart of the historic Santa Teresa District on a hill in the centre of the city and also famous for the tram "bonde" that winds up way through the streets. The hotel is under government trust for historic preservation of the City of Rio de Janeiro and is surrounded by gardens with trees, patios and terraces. Offering sophisticated decoration introducing you to the history and origins of Brazil.
It has 44 personalised rooms all with private facilities. More than half of the rooms have balconies with panoramic views over the Guanabara Bay, the Teresópolis Mountains and Christ the Redeemer. There is also a restaurant, swimming pool and spa. A taxi is required to travel into the city, although there are some very good restaurants, art galleries, boutique shops and museums in Santa Teresa.

Copacabana Palace
Rio de Janeiro - Deluxe Hotel
This grand, European-style hotel is a listed building with 226 rooms, a large swimming pool, fitness centre and sauna, rooftop tennis court, shops, business centre, piano bar and three of Rio's finest elegant restaurants.
All the rooms are large and spacious, decorated in a classic elegant style, fully air-conditioned with cable TV, electronic safe deposit box, voice mail, 24-hour room service, mini bar and complimentary WiFi. The separate Tower Annexe building is set back from the street and overlooking the pool, where all the rooms are suites with balconies.


Iguassu Falls - 2 Nights
Day 4 - Travel to Iguassu Falls
Day 5 - Guided Tour (Brazil & Argentinian sides)
- Full Description
- Accommodation
Tuesday, 12 December 2023
Travel to Iguassu Falls
Fly to Iguassu and transfer to your hotel for a 2 night stay. Depending on your budget, choose to stay in Iguassu Town, a friendly place with lots of restaurants and relaxed atmosphere. Or stay at the only hotel overlooking the Iguassu Falls, the iconic Hotel Das Cataratas, a wonderful luxury resort hotel with beautiful gardens and trails directly to the falls you can explore at your own leisure when you arrive.
The magnificent Iguassu Waterfalls thunder over a wide curve of the Iguassu river set on the border between Brazil and Argentina. The spectacle of the Falls is one of South America's most extraordinary sights; vast torrents of water flow over a myriad of small and large cascades over a length of 2.5 kilometres.
Wednesday, 13 December 2023
Tour of Iguassu Falls (Brazilian & Argentinian Sides)
Your Veloso Tour guide will escort you on the best trails and walkways to get the best possible photography and to experience the thunder of this natural wonder close up. We will first explore the Brazilian side of the falls, offering spectacular panoramic views and the opportunity to see a variety of wildlife. Then cross over the border into Argentina to see the falls from another perspective, where you will have a closer view of the individual falls in their lush tropical setting, abundant in wildlife, especially butterflies. You can walk right out to the roaring Devil's Throat Waterfall along walkways that afford breathtaking views. This side of the falls is definitely well worth the visit. An invigorating and memorable day awaits.
San Martin
Iguassu Falls - Tourist Resort
Situated by the main entrance to the Iguassu National Park, this hotel provides good access to the airport and the waterfalls. Surrounded by lush vegetation a number walking trails are available to guests. The hotel has a spa, gym, large swimming pool and restaurant making for a comfortable stay.
All rooms are air-conditioned, with television, minibar, telephone FREE Wi-FI and safe.

Bourbon Cataratas Resort
Iguassu Falls - First Hotel
The Bourbon has a spacious area, excellent facilities, a swimming pool, tennis courts, a health club and two restaurants. It is located on the road between the town and the Iguassu Falls and the best hotel outside the National Park area. There are 300 rooms all with air-conditioning, able TV and bathroom.

Hotel das Cataratas
Iguassu Falls - Luxury Hotel
The iconic Belmond Hotel das Cataratas is the only hotel located overlooking the Iguassu Falls within the National Park. Restored to its original 1950s charm, the hotel’s hacienda-style exterior is matched by its warm, inviting interior design. The Hotel das Cataratas is a very special place to stay.
Public areas include a large swimming pool, the Ipe Grill, Itaipa Restarurant, Bar Taroba, shops, fitness centre, tennis courts and a beautiful spa.
The elegantly furnished rooms are either junior suites (35m2) or Cataratas suites (65m2). All are air-conditioned, with private bathroom, living room, minibar, TV and luxury toiletries.
The hotel has extensive and beautiful gardens, from where you can walk directly to the falls at your leisure. There are several activities available including helicopter rides over the falls, guided walks in the early morning, during the day or at night and birdwatching tours. For the more adventurous, white water rafting is great fun.
The rates are on a room and breakfast basis.


Manaus - 1 Night
Day 6 - Manaus
- Full Description
- Accommodation
Thursday, 14 December 2023
Manaus
Early morning flight to Manaus. In the afternoon enjoy a tour of Manaus including a visit to the Municipal Market where you can see the exotic fruit and freshwater fish of the Amazon rainforest. We stop by the port to view the bustling activity and the variety of goods and people travelling by local boat in all directions to heart of the Amazon. One of the tour's highlights is a visit to the colonial Manaus Opera House, the Teatro Amazonas, built in 1896 almost exclusively using materials shipped over from Europe when Manaus was at the height of the rubber production boom.
Millennium Hotel
Manaus - First Hotel
Located between the two main avenues of the city, Manaus Hotels Millennium is within the Millennium Shopping Centre offering several leisure, gastronomy and entertainment options. There are more than 100 stores and 8 cinemas.
Public areas include the Sax Restaurant themed on New Orleans with its piano bar dedicated to jazz and regional music. The cuisine offers a delicious grilled rib of tambaqui in addition to international dishes. The hotel also has a rooftop pool, gym, sauna, rooftop jacuzzi and a spa - plus great views over the city of Manaus.
There are 127 spacious apartments (25m²) each with private bathroom, balcony, desk, armchair, Wi-Fi internet, LCD cable TV, microwave, minibar and safe.
The rates are on a bed and breakfast basis.

Villa Amazonia Hotel
Manaus - First Hotel
The Villa Amazonia Hotel is located in the historic centre of Manaus, just a few steps from the Amazon Opera House. The façade, reception and restaurant preserve the design of a restored historic mansion that dates back to the golden rubber age.
The hotel has 30 spacious, air-conditioned rooms—all facing an indoor garden and a natural stone pool. Each has a modern and sophisticated design, and include a private bathroom with bathtub, balcony, special linen and luxury amenities.
The Fitz Carraldo Bistro offers a contemporaneous menu, blending international classic dishes with the exotic Amazonian culinary.
There is also a fully equipped gym room overlooking a hidden garden, a real gem in the heart of Manaus.


Amazon Lodge - 3 Nights
Day 7 - Travel to remote Amazon Lodge
Day 8 - Rainforest excursions and walks
Day 9 - Local Amazon community and night tour
- Full Description
- Accommodation
Friday, 15 December 2023
Travel to Remote Amazon Lodge
Depart Manaus in the morning by car to the river port at Ceasa and continue by speedboat to the village of Careiro da Varzea, passing where the Negro and Solimões Rivers meet. After a stop at a fruit market, travel by boat passing many lakes and creeks, and have an opportunity to see water lilies with their enormous floating leaves, as well as native villages and communities. Arrive at the Amazon Turtle Lodge around lunchtime for a 3 night stay on a full board basis including all excursions. Later in the afternoon, take a motorised canoe trip to explore the myriad of islands and waterways with pristine, virgin rainforest.
Saturday, 16 December 2023
Rainforest and wildlife excursion
Enjoy an early morning excursion to see the sunrise and birds, a wonderful experience in the forest. Later we go on a jungle trek where you learn local skills with our experienced guides, who will demonstrate how to use vines as ropes, tree climbing and how to find food and water. You will also learn about the fauna and biodiversity of the rain forest. After lunch at the lodge, go canoeing to discover and observe more Amazonia birds and wildlife. In the evening, there is nothing quite to compare with watching the beautiful glow of the moon and hear the sounds of the creatures wandering around in the jungle.
Sunday, 17 December 2023
Local community visit and night tour
In the morning, we visit a native caboclo's house to learn about their customs and culture and rubber and cassava plantations. At lunch taste some of the foods seen in the local houses (fruits, vegetables, spices, herbs). We return to the river to try our hand at piranha fishing, the most well known of the species endemic to the rivers of South America. After dinner at the lodge, we travel by canoe for a night wildlife watching excursion where we might spot an alligator. Your guide will catch it with their bare hands - you will have opportunity to take photos and touch the tough, slippery scales of the skin.
Turtle Lodge
Amazon Lodges - Tourist Lodge
Located three hours from Manaus, the lodge, built in local wooden style with thatched roofs, consists of one main building with sitting room and a dining area on the first floor with open sides for a panoramic view of the forest and river. There are five bungalows with two rooms each, all with private facilities, netting two rooms each, all with private facilities, netting and a veranda overlooking the river. Includes daily guided excursions in the rain forest, local families and caiman spotting at night.

Anavilhanas Jungle Lodge
Amazon Lodges - First Lodge
Anavilhanas Jungle Lodge offers a unique and cozy experience in the heart of the Brazilian Amazon Rainforest.
Located in the Anavilhanas Archipelago about 3 hours by road from Manaus (or you can fly), the lodge offers a wide variety of included activities and tours exploring the Amazon rainforest on foot our by canoe included depending on your length of stay in the Amazon and tailored to your interests.
All rooms are equipped reading chair, 32-inch LCD HD TV, cable channels, mini bar, safe, AC, bathroom with a spacious shower stall, hair dryer, premium amenities. There is also a hammock in the balcony to admire the forest.
Whether in the infinity pool overlooking the Anavilhanas Archipelago, in the Floating Bar at the Rio Negro, you will enjoy every part of the Brazilian Amazon with the care of the lodge’s staff.
All packages include breakfast, lunch, afternoon snack and dinner. The menu is composed of regional and international dishes, made with fresh ingredients purchased from local suppliers.


Salvador da Bahia - 3 Nights
Day 10 - Travel to Salvador da Bahia
Day 11 - Tour of Salvador
Day 12 - Day at Leisure in Salvador
Day 13 - Return flight - or extend your stay in Praia do Forte
Day 14 - Arrive in UK
- Full Description
- Accommodation
Monday, 18 December 2023
Return to Manaus and introduction to Salvador da Bahia
This morning we will depart the lodge by canoe to observe fresh-water pink and grey dolphins in small channels (Igarapés), flooded forest areas (Igapós) and in the rivers and lakes, just paddling and hearing the sounds of jungle. Transfer back to Manaus arriving in the afternoon for a flight to Salvador da Bahia.
Salvador is at the heart of Brazilian identity with roots in Portuguese colonial history, blending with African music and customs. The old centre of Salvador, the Pelourinho, was restored and became a UNESCO World heritage Site with wonderful cobbled streets, colonial architecture and churches. On arrival, our guide will meet you at the airport and transfer you to your chosen hotel for a 3 night stay. Your guide will also take you on a short walk to introduce you to the area surrounding your hotel so that you can get your bearings on arrival and gain a feel of the city life, people and culture.
Tuesday, 19 December 2023
Tour of Colonial & African Heritage in Salvador
Salvador is the core, unique Brazilian Identity, felt by all Brazilians, whatever their descendance - We take a guided journey through the cobbled streets of Salvador, lined with splendid colonial houses, which stand as a reminder of a bygone era when Salvador was at the height of its glory in the 18th century. We explore the upper and lower parts of the city, we visit the numerous churches, squares, fortifications and symbols of Salvador's rich diversity of faiths and cultures, as we immerse ourselves into the heart of Brazil's colonial roots from Portuguese and African influences. "Orixas" are the fascinating deities brought by African slaves, that influence so much, the music, art, naive paintings and literature of Salvador's rich culture. Learn the mysteries of Condomble and Capoeira which are also unique elements of Salvador's African heritage
Wednesday, 20 December 2023
At Leisure in Salvador
Today you have the flexibility to pursue your own interests and relax. There is much to see in Salvador, with excellent museums, art galleries and stunning beaches. Suggested optional excursions include: visit the Old City of Cachoeira in the "Reconcavo Bahiano" or take a cruise of the Bay and Island of Itaparica. Your Veloso Tours guide will ensure you get the most from your stay.
Thursday, 21 December 2023
Return flight home
Transfer to the airport for your overnight flight back to the UK.
Or extend your holiday to stay at a beautiful tropical beach resort in Praia do Forte or Morro Sao Paulo
Friday, 22 December 2023
Arrive in the UK
Arrive in the UK
Monte Pascoal
Salvador da Bahia - Tourist Hotel
Located in a modern buildings close to the lighthouse at Barra, shops and restaurants. All 77 rooms are fully equiped and it has a restaurant serving Brazilian cuisine and a pool.

Villa Bahia
Salvador da Bahia - First Hotel
The hotel is located in the heart of Salvador's historical centre and colonial architecture, close to Pelourinho, the Church of Sao Francisco and the main square. It is a converted historic building with 17 spacious bedrooms with sofas, table, wardrobe, air conditioning, TV, minibar, hair dryer, large private bathrooms and shower. Some rooms have a four poster bed, others a double bed with a net and others two single beds.
The character decoration recalls the most important moments in the history of the Portuguese explorers, of the African and Asian trade exchanges, of the sea routes, closely tied to the spice trade.
The common areas recall the genius of the great Portuguese navigators, of Pedro Alvarez Cabral, who in 1500 discovered Brazil; of Magellan, of Vasco de Gama sailing to Africa and India; and of the advances made in seafaring that made it possible for them to bring different worlds closer to each other.
The gourmet restaurant with Bahia gourmet cuisine is excellent and there is a sitting room, swimming pool, cosy patio with tables, chairs and plants and a spa with wonderful, exotic massage. The restaurant and bar evoke the theme of the Spice Route. The spa invites you to discover beauty care and relaxation inspired by the knowledge Guarani Indians have passed down for generations to each other.

Price Guidelines
Season | Low Season | High Season | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
Travel Dates | Feb-Jun, Sep-Nov | Jul-Aug, Dec-Jan | ||
Room Arrangement | Tourist | First | Tourist | First |
Multiple Travellers - Twin Room | £3,663 | £4,023 | £3,728 | £4,077 |
Single Traveller - Own Room | £4,738 | £5,350 | £4,976 | £5,801 |
Prices are a guideline and per person. Please request a quote for Special Events, Christmas, New Year's Eve & Easter.
What's Included
- 14 days / 12 nights
- International flights (1 overnight)
- Excursions in English with expert guides
- Accommodation as per itinerary
- Breakfast and meals as per itinerary
- Transfers to and from airports
- Transport throughout the itinerary
- All Internal flights
- Exclusive list of restaurant suggestions
- Price excludes the extension
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