Brazil Holidays
Exotic cities, Iguassu Falls & an Amazon River Cruise
Varzea Tour - 13 Night Itinerary
Experience Brazil's most vibrant cities, admire the stunning Iguassu Falls and venture deep into the pristine Amazon Rainforest on a four night expedition cruise
Select your Preferred Departure Date OR Default to Today's Date
Tour Route
- Rio de Janeiro - 3 Nights
- Iguassu Falls - 2 Nights
- Manaus - 1 Night
- Amazon River Expedition Cruise - 4 Nights
- Salvador da Bahia - 3 Nights
Travel Highlights
- Enjoy a panoramic tour around Brazil's vibrant cities and magnificent landscapes
- Experience Rio de Janeiro and its iconic beaches and sights, visiting Christ the Redeemer
- Choose from a huge range of excursions and tours to get to know Rio de Janeiro
- Be awed by Latin America's greatest waterfall at Iguassu Falls
- Venture deep into the pristine Amazon Rainforest on a four night expedition cruise
- Enjoy daily excursions in search of nature, birds and mammals
- Discover the colonial heritage of Salvador and its Afro-Portuguese traditions
This itinerary can be tailored to your preferences by our specialist advisors, who can provide a guaranteed price based on your choice of departure date, route, duration, flights, cabin, hotels, transport and excursions.
Tour Itinerary
Rio de Janeiro - 3 Nights
Day 1 - Fly to Rio de Janeiro
Day 2 - Christ the Redeemer and Corcovado
Day 3 - At leisure in Rio
- Full Description
- Accommodation
Saturday, 14 December 2024
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. Your guide will also take you on a walk to introduce you to the area surroundings your hotel so that you can get acquainted with your local area.
Sunday, 15 December 2024
Christ the Redeemer and Corcovado
Enjoy a half day tour to see 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.
Monday, 16 December 2024
At leisure in Rio
Today you have the flexibility to pursue your own interests and relax. Why not visit the Botanical Gardens and Sugar Loaf Mountain, the Royal Palaces to discover the imperial history of Rio or bohemian district of Santa Teresa, once home to the rich and famous but now occupied by galleries, writers, musicians and artists. Our guide can arrange a wide variety of optional excursions to suit your requirements.
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.
PortoBay Rio Hotel
Rio de Janeiro - First Hotel
Located on the famous Copacabana beach, the PortoBay Hotel Rio is well situated close to the main tourist attractions, shopping and leisure centres.
The hotel has a roof-top bar offering outdoor snacks and poolside drinks, an outdoor swimming pool, sun terrace, fitness centre, sauna and private beach service. Plus, the hotel has it's own restaurant offering fine international cuisine.
The hotel has 117 modern air-conditioned 'fresh' looking rooms with balconies and side views of the beach and ocean, cable TV, mini bar, safe box, telephone, free WiFi access, radio and bathrooms equipped with shower and some with bathtub.
Iguassu Falls - 2 Nights
Day 4 - Travel to Iguassu Falls
Day 5 - Guided Tour (Brazil & Argentinian sides)
- Full Description
- Accommodation
Tuesday, 17 December 2024
Travel to Iguassu Falls
Fly to Iguassu and transfer to your chosen hotel for a 2 night stay. Choose from hotels in Iguassu town, on the road leading to the falls or if you want to stay in the only hotel directly overlooking the falls stay at the iconic Hotel das Cataratas with its magnificent gardens (a perfect choice for honeymooners). Our experts can guide you on which hotel is right for you. 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, 18 December 2024
Tour of Iguassu Falls (Brazilian and Argentinian sides) of Iguassu Falls (Brazilian and Argentinian sides)
Today enjoy guided excursions on both the Brazilian and Argentinian sides of the Falls. Our guides will take you to the foot of the Devil's Throat waterfall offering spectacular panoramic views and the opportunity to see a variety of wildlife. We 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. Only on the Argentine side 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.
Recanto Park
Iguassu Falls - Tourist Hotel
Located outside the town of Iguassu and well outside the National Parkarea, this hotel is excellent value, with 295 fully equipped modern rooms with wooden floors, a restaurant, bar and spacious leisure area with a large swimming pool.
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 - Fly to Manaus
- Full Description
- Accommodation
Thursday, 19 December 2024
Fly to Manaus
Transfer to the airport and fly to Manaus for a 1-night stay.
Lord Manaus Hotel
Manaus - Tourist Hotel
Located in downtown Manaus this hotel offers recently refurbished rooms, all equipped with air conditioning, TV and mini bar. The hotel has its own restaurant and provides easy access to other restaurants, bars and shops of the commercial district.
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.
Juma Opera Hotel
Manaus - Luxury Hotel
An exclusive, luxury, boutique hotel occupying historical mansions in front of the imposing Teatro Amazonas.
The Juma Opera hotel has 41 spacious air conditioned rooms, some with a courtyard view and others with views of the theatre. All rooms have king-size beds and private bathroom with shower or bathtub. The centuries-old architecture has been painstakingly updated to offer unique and exclusive rooms.
Public areas include a bar, gym, spa and rooftop swimming pool. The Opera Restaurant is located under an impressive dome made of iron and glass. Enjoy fish, meat and hints of indigenous cuisine that complement the varied international menu.
In addition to the imposing internal structure, the restaurant has a very pleasant terrace, ideal for drinks with a stunning view of the Amazonas Theatre in front.
The rates include breakfast.
Amazon River Expedition Cruise - 4 Nights
Day 7-10 - Tucano Amazon River Cruise
- Full Description
Friday, 20 December 2024
Embark the Tucano Amazon Riverboat
Early morning flight to Manaus and transfer to the M/V Tucano for a four night expedition cruise on a full board basis including all excursions. We set sail in the afternoon northbound on the Rio Negro River.
Purpose-built to reach seldom-visited parts of the Amazon, the M/V Tucano is our preferred cruise vessel in the Amazon rainforest. It is styled on the classic steam riverboats of yesteryear and offers guests plenty of space to spread out, with a large observation deck to soak in the rainforest vistas.
All cabins have plenty of large windows, air conditioning and private bathrooms. They are elegantly decorated, with stylish wood panelling and offer completely comfort and privacy in both single and double rooms. A variety of delicious Brazilian meals are served, with fresh fruit, vegetables and Amazon fruit juices on offer.
During the course of the cruise, you will explore three different habitats; two types of flooded forests; varzea and igapó, the former being milky coffee in colour and the later a darker variation, with wildlife and plantlife varying greatly between the two. Plus terre firme, higher land above the flood line, with solid ground and a more defined rainforest structure.
Saturday, 21 December 2024
Anavilhanas Archipelago
Today we explore the Anavilhanas Archipelago, with excursions into the rainforest during the day and caiman spotting at night.
Sunday, 22 December 2024
Rio Negro
Exploring the Rio Negro, taking canoe trips on the narrow, flooded creeks and streams in the company of expert local guides.
Monday, 23 December 2024
Meeting of the Waters
Sail towards Manuas, where we experience the meeting of the two great rivers, the Amazon and Rio Negro at the ‘Meeting of the Waters’. We overnight in Manaus.
Salvador da Bahia - 3 Nights
Day 11 - Travel to Salvador da Bahia
Day 12 - Tour of Salvador
Day 13 - Day at leisure in Salvador
Day 14 - Return overnight flight
Day 15 - Arrive in the UK
- Full Description
- Accommodation
Tuesday, 24 December 2024
Salvador da Bahia
Disembark after breakfast and fly to Salvador, where we stay for 3 nights.
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 cobbled streets, colonial architecture and churches. Our guide will take you on a short walk to introduce you to the area surroundings your hotel so that you can get your bearings upon arrival and gain a feel of the city life, the people and the culture. This short introduction (one hour) is done with your arrival transfer after checking in at your hotel.
Wednesday, 25 December 2024
City tour of Salvador
Enjoy a guided journey through the cobbled streets lined of Salvador, 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.
Thursday, 26 December 2024
At leisure in Salvador
Today you have the flexibility to pursue your own interests and relax. Suggested excursions include: a visit the Old City of Cachoeira in the "Reconcavo Bahiano" or perhaps a cruise of the Bay and Island of Itaparica. Spending the day on one of Salvador's fabulous beaches is also a wonderful way to end your journey.
Friday, 27 December 2024
Return flight back home
Transfer to Salvador airport for an overnight flight back to the UK.
Saturday, 28 December 2024
Arrive in the UK
Arrive in the UK in the morning.
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.
Casa do Amarelindo
Salvador da Bahia - Tourist Hotel
Located in the old Pelourinho area, the hotel has the warm, colourful decoration of Bahia and with 10 comfortable rooms with ceiling fan and air conditioning, bath, CD and DVD player, free WiFi, hair dryer, safe and satellite TV. Breakfast can be taken all day by the pool, the panoramic terrace or the restaurant.
Fasano
Salvador da Bahia - Deluxe Hotel
Located at Castro Alves Square, Salvador's Historic Centre, the deluxe Fasano Hotel has an unparalleled view of the Todos os Santos Bay.
The air-conditioned rooms have king-size beds, Egyptian cotton sheets, spacious living room, television and marble bathroom. Most rooms have sea views.
Italian cuisine is served in the restaurant. Other public areas include a stunning rooftop swimming pool, Spa and fitness centre.
Price Guidelines
Season | Low Season | High Season | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
Travel Dates | Rest of the year | 19 JUL - 15 AUG, 14 - 23 DEC | ||
Room Arrangement | Tourist | First | Tourist | First |
Multiple Travellers - Twin Room | £4,800 | £4,853 | £4,866 | £4,908 |
Multiple Travellers - Own Room | £6,214 | £6,388 | £6,567 | £6,438 |
Prices are a guideline per person, for travel within the next year and booking early and are subject to availability. Please see below what is included and request a detailed quotation with a guaranteed price for your specific departure date and for Special Events, Summer, Christmas, New Year's Eve & Easter.
What's Included
- 15 Days / 13 Nights
- International flights (1 overnight)
- Four night Tucano Amazon Expedition Cruise on a full board basis
- 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 flight
- Exclusive list of restaurant suggestions
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