Brazil – Rio & Samba

Day 1 - ZAGREB – SÃO PAULO

Meeting in Zagreb and departure for Brazil on an international flight with a layover to the largest country in South America. From the very beginning, the journey brings the feeling of stepping into a completely different world. During the overnight flight to São Paulo, we slowly leave Europe behind and enter the atmosphere of adventure that awaits us in the days ahead.

Evening arrival in Sao Paulo, the largest city in South America and an urban beast that immediately reveals just how intense Brazil can be. Overnight.

Day 2 - SÃO PAULO – Entering the Chaos

Breakfast. São Paulo, the largest city in South America and an urban beast that immediately reveals just how intense Brazil truly is. It is a day dedicated to discovering the vibrant chaos of São Paulo.

We slowly immerse ourselves in a city that does not try to be beautiful in the conventional sense. São Paulo is raw, immense, chaotic and incredibly alive—a place where millions of people, cultures and contrasts collide every single day. It is precisely this energy that makes it one of the most fascinating cities in the world.

We begin by exploring the modern face of Brazil along Avenida Paulista, the beating heart of the city’s financial and cultural life. From there, we continue to Vila Madalena and the legendary Batman Alley, the epicentre of São Paulo’s street art and creative scene. Here, we go beyond simply admiring the murals as we take part in an exclusive graffiti workshop led by local artists. Through colours, spray paint and stories of urban expression, we experience São Paulo as a city that speaks through its walls, its rhythm and its rebellious creative spirit.

Our journey continues through lively local markets, rooftop bars and neighbourhoods shaped by Japanese, Portuguese, Italian and Latin American influences. São Paulo is not a city to be seen—it is a city to be experienced through its sounds, flavours, aromas, street art and the people who bring it to life. We could end the day with our first caipirinha, our first true taste of Brazil, and an evening in a city that quite literally never stops moving. Overnight.

Day 3 - SÃO PAULO – Atlantic Rainforest & Paranapiacaba

Breakfast. Today is yours to experience São Paulo at your own pace. You may continue exploring the city’s countless neighbourhoods, visit one of its renowned museums, enjoy a leisurely coffee in one of its trendy cafés or simply soak up the atmosphere of South America’s largest metropolis. Every corner of São Paulo offers something different, making even an unplanned day an adventure of its own.

For those looking to escape the city’s fast pace, we offer an optional full-day excursion to the enchanting village of Paranapiacaba, hidden deep within Brazil’s lush Atlantic Rainforest. Originally built by the British in the 19th century as part of an ambitious railway connecting São Paulo with the Atlantic coast, this atmospheric village feels frozen in time. Surrounded by mist-covered forests, charming colonial houses and historic railway buildings, Paranapiacaba offers a fascinating glimpse into a little-known chapter of Brazil’s industrial heritage.

As we wander through its quiet streets, we discover how British engineering and Brazilian nature came together in one of the country’s most unique settlements. Along the way, we enjoy spectacular viewpoints over the surrounding rainforest, explore scenic walking trails and breathe in the fresh mountain air far removed from the intensity of the city. The Atlantic Rainforest is one of the world’s oldest and most biodiverse ecosystems, home to countless endemic plant and animal species found nowhere else on Earth.

In the late afternoon, we return to São Paulo, where the evening is free to relax, enjoy one final caipirinha or prepare for the next chapter of our Brazilian adventure. Overnight.

Day 4 - SÃO PAULO – RIO DE JANEIRO

Breakfast. Enjoy a relaxed morning before we leave behind the immense skyline of São Paulo and continue towards Brazil’s most iconic destination. In the afternoon, we board our domestic flight to Rio de Janeiro, a city where lush mountains plunge into the Atlantic Ocean and everyday life unfolds against one of the world’s most spectacular natural backdrops.

As we descend towards Rio, breathtaking views of the coastline, Guanabara Bay and the city’s distinctive granite peaks welcome us to the place many consider the very soul of Brazil. Upon arrival, we transfer to our hotel near Copacabana or Ipanema, where the rest of the evening is free to settle in and enjoy your first impressions of this extraordinary city.

Whether you choose to take your first stroll along the famous beachfront promenade, sip a refreshing caipirinha overlooking the ocean or simply watch the sunset as locals gather to play football, volleyball and enjoy the warm Atlantic breeze, it quickly becomes clear that Rio is unlike anywhere else in the world. This is only the beginning of our journey through a city that effortlessly combines spectacular nature, vibrant culture and an infectious passion for life. Overnight.

Day 5 - RIO CLASSICS – A City Straight Out of the Movies

Breakfast. Today we discover Rio’s most iconic side. We visit the famous Christ the Redeemer statue, offering one of the most recognizable views in the world – a moment many have dreamed about for years.

We continue towards the colorful neighborhood of Santa Teresa, known for its colonial streets, artistic atmosphere, and bohemian spirit that makes it one of Rio’s most unique districts. We walk through picturesque streets filled with galleries, murals, and local ateliers, all the way to the famous Selarón Steps: one of the city’s most photographed symbols, covered in thousands of colorful ceramic tiles from around the world.

Towards sunset, we take the cable car up Sugarloaf Mountain, where a spectacular sunset awaits us above the ocean and the city skyline. In the evening, we head out for our first real samba nights – no tourist shows, just the authentic local rhythm and energy of Rio. Overnight stay.

Day 6 - RIO DE JANEIRO – The Soul of Brazil – Optional Adrenaline Adventure

Breakfast. Today is yours to experience Rio de Janeiro in whichever way suits you best. You may spend the day relaxing on the legendary beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema, enjoying fresh coconut water beneath the Brazilian sun, taking your first swim in the Atlantic Ocean or simply soaking up the city’s unique atmosphere while strolling along its famous beachfront promenade.

For those eager to explore further, Rio offers countless possibilities. Visit local cafés, discover charming neighbourhoods, browse colourful markets or simply embrace the relaxed lifestyle that has made this city famous around the world. In Rio, some of the most memorable moments come from doing absolutely nothing at all.

For an additional supplement, adventure seekers may choose one of Rio’s most iconic experiences: a tandem hang gliding or paragliding flight above the city. Launching from the lush hills of Tijuca National Park, we glide high above tropical rainforest, dramatic granite cliffs and the sparkling Atlantic Ocean before gently landing on São Conrado Beach. With breathtaking views of Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf Mountain and Rio’s world-famous coastline unfolding beneath us, this is widely regarded as one of the most spectacular urban flights anywhere on the planet.

Whether you choose an adrenaline-filled adventure or a relaxing day by the ocean, today is all about experiencing Rio in your own way before discovering its iconic landmarks tomorrow. Overnight.

Day 7 - REAL RIO – Favela & Samba

Breakfast. Today we step into the real Rio, the Rio that exists beyond postcards and tourist clichés. In smaller groups and accompanied by local guides, we visit one of the city’s favelas, where conversations, everyday scenes and personal stories reveal a completely different perspective of life in Rio. We are not here to observe poverty, but to better understand the complexity of Brazil, the strength of community, and the way art, music and solidarity emerge from neighbourhoods with their own rhythm and identity. Encounters with local artists, young people and social projects give this day a depth rarely experienced through classic tourism.

For a supplement, you may choose to upgrade your experience with the Vidigal Impact Experience—an inspiring journey into one of Rio de Janeiro’s most vibrant communities. More than a traditional favela tour, this immersive experience offers a genuine opportunity to connect with local leaders, community projects and the people shaping Vidigal’s future. Guided by residents, we explore the neighbourhood through visits to impactful social initiatives and discover how entrepreneurship, creativity and community spirit are transforming everyday life. Along the way, we gain a deeper understanding of Vidigal’s culture while engaging directly with those driving positive change. The experience also includes two interactive cultural workshops, which may feature capoeira, percussion, passinho (Brazilian street dance), jiu-jitsu or yoga, depending on availability. Rather than simply observing, you become part of the community through music, movement and authentic cultural exchange (basic Favela tour included).

Day 8 - RIO – Freedom & Sunset

Breakfast. Today is all about experiencing Rio at your own pace and discovering the city in whichever way feels right in the moment. Some may spend the morning on the legendary beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema with fresh coconut water and Atlantic waves, while others may try surfing or rent a bike to ride along Rio’s endless oceanfront promenade. For those wanting to dive deeper into Brazilian life, the possibilities are almost endless: from football matches and museums to exploring neighbourhoods, local bars and hidden corners of the city. Rio is one of the rare places in the world that works equally well as an adrenaline-filled adventure and as a destination for complete relaxation. Overnight stay.

For a supplement, you may join us for one of the most memorable experiences of the journey: a sunset sailing cruise beneath Rio de Janeiro’s iconic skyline. As the afternoon slowly fades into evening, we set sail across the waters of Guanabara Bay while the city is bathed in warm golden light. From the deck, we enjoy breathtaking views of Sugarloaf Mountain, Christ the Redeemer and Rio’s spectacular coastline from a perspective few ever experience. With music playing softly, a refreshing ocean breeze and the gentle rhythm of the waves, the atmosphere is simply unforgettable. As daylight gives way to the glittering lights of the city, Rio reveals yet another side of its unmistakable charm. Experiences like this are the reason so many travellers find themselves returning to Rio time and time again. After the cruise, we return to the hotel.

Day 9 - RIO – PARATY

Breakfast. We leave behind the rhythm of the big city and travel along Brazil’s spectacular Atlantic coastline towards Paraty, one of Brazil’s most beautiful colonial towns. A place that feels like a blend of Portuguese history and lush tropical jungle. Stone streets, whitewashed facades with colourful window frames, seaside churches and rich greenery create a unique sense of calm and romance. Unlike the intensity of Rio, Paraty captivates visitors with its slower pace and the kind of atmosphere best experienced simply by wandering without a plan.

The afternoon and evening are yours to enjoy at your own pace, exploring the charming colonial streets lined with boutique galleries, artisan shops, cosy cafés and lively bars. It is the perfect opportunity to enjoy one last caipirinha, pick up a few souvenirs or simply soak in the relaxed atmosphere before returning home.

Together, we will also take a guided walking tour through Paraty’s beautifully preserved historic centre, where centuries of history come alive along its cobblestone streets. The experience concludes with a tasting of cachaça, Brazil’s iconic sugarcane spirit, offering the perfect toast to an unforgettable journey. Overnight.

Day 10 - PARATY – Optional Tropical Expedition

Breakfast. Today is free for exploring, enjoying the sea or just lying in the sun. If you are in for an adventure, you may join tropical expedition around the bay.

For a supplement, you may join us on a full-day boat excursion through the spectacular Paraty Bay, accompanied by a private bilingual guide. Surrounded by hundreds of lush tropical islands, emerald-green waters and secluded beaches, we discover one of Brazil’s most beautiful stretches of coastline from the sea.

Throughout the day, our boat makes several stops at idyllic bays and hidden beaches, where there is time to swim, snorkel or simply relax while taking in the breathtaking scenery. Crystal-clear waters, untouched nature and the peaceful rhythm of the bay create the perfect escape from everyday life.

As we cruise between islands and picturesque coves, our guide shares fascinating stories about the region’s history, marine life and local traditions, offering a deeper insight into this unique corner of Brazil.

This relaxing day on the water is the perfect way to experience the natural beauty that has made Paraty one of Brazil’s most treasured coastal destinations. Overnight.

Day 11 - PARATY – Jeep Tour

Breakfast. Another day by the sea. For additional supplement, those looking for more activities may join the jeep tour.

An exciting jeep tour through the lush Atlantic Rainforest, one of the world’s richest and most biodiverse ecosystems.

Travelling along scenic jungle trails, we discover hidden corners of the region that remain untouched by mass tourism. Along the way, we stop at beautiful, secluded waterfalls, where you can take a refreshing swim in crystal-clear natural pools or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings of the rainforest.

The journey continues with a visit to a traditional cachaça distillery, where Brazil’s famous sugarcane spirit has been produced for generations. We learn about the traditional distillation process, discover the history behind this iconic drink and enjoy a tasting of different locally produced cachaças, each with its own distinctive character.

Combining adventure, nature and local culture, this excursion offers a completely different perspective on the Paraty region and is the perfect complement to exploring its colonial streets. Overnight.

Day 12 - PARATY – SÃO PAULO

Breakfast. After breakfast we leave the coast behind and begin our journey back towards São Paulo. Along the way to the airport, we enjoy our final glimpses of tropical landscapes, the ocean and the chaotic energy of a country that has completely drawn us into its rhythm over the past days. It is time to reflect on the memories, photographs and moments that transformed Brazil into something far greater than an ordinary trip.

As we board our flight and take off above the landscapes of Brazil, the endless Atlantic Ocean and the vast South American continent stretch out beneath us. Only then do we fully realise the beauty, energy and passion of this part of the world. Something truly unforgettable. Overnight flight.

Day 13 - SÃO PAULO – ZAGREB

Continuation of the journey back to Zagreb. Behind us remain days filled with rhythm, tropical islands, samba, ocean views and experiences that make Brazil unlike anywhere else in the world. Until next time!