Brazil Uncovered

Get under the skin of Brazil's rich culture on this journey through its colonial heartland, stopping at picturesque Paraty on the verdant emerald coast and vibrant Rio de Janeiro before discovering the cobbled streets of Tiradentes and Ouro Preto. End in Salvador, the home of Afro-Brazilian culture for a final hit of culture.

1. Fly to Rio de Janeiro

2. Days 1-4: Paraty

   Unwind after your international flight in the Portuguese influenced seaside town of Paraty, a charming UNESCO World Heritage Site, where the streets are pedestrianised and the buildings beautifully preserved. Meander along cobbled streets, pop into boutique shops and art galleries, and enjoy long alfresco lunches and romantic candlelit dinners in hidden overgrown courtyards. Head out by boat to explore the surrounding islands with their gorgeous beaches and clear waters teeming with tropical fish perfect for snorkelling. Get into the spirit of things by visiting local Cachaça distilleries and sample Brazil's signature drink which was first created in Paraty.

   Accommodation: Pousada Porto Imperial (3 nights)

3. Days 4-7: Rio de Janeiro

   You will then be driven back to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil's (if not the world’s) most iconic city. During your time in Rio, take a tour through the rainforest to visit the famous statue of Christ the Redeemer, admire the city from a bird’s eye view and visit Santa Teresa, Rio’s oldest, most Bohemian and characterful quarter.

   With your hotel perfectly located between the beaches of Ipanema and Copacabana you’ll have plenty of time to explore at your own leisure. Be sure to do as the locals do, while away a lazy afternoon at one of the pavement cafes overlooking the ocean, sipping on an ice-cold beer whilst people watching.

   Accommodation: Arena Ipanema (3 nights)

4. Days 7-8: Tiradentes, Minas Gerais, Brazil

   Transfer overland to Tiradentes, a small colonial town set in the heart of Minas Gerais, stopping on route at Petropolis (known as the Imperial City) to admire its unique architecture. Tiradentes is the perfect blend of impressive colonial architecture and natural beauty. Visit baroque churches filled with gold and ornate art, wander between charming and picturesque buildings and take in a spectacular mountainous landscape backdrop.

   During your stay you can take a fascinating city tour, while away the afternoon popping into antique shops or if you’ve still got some energy take a hike through the mountains.

   Accommodation: Solar da Ponte (1 night)

5. Days 8-10: Minas Gerais

   Back on the road, you’ll be transferred to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ouro Preto, which is a labyrinth of narrow, winding cobbled streets, beautiful cathedrals and ostentatious baroque architecture. To explore the highlights of this colonial gem, we suggest a guided city tour and spend the rest of your time at leisure, exploring the streets of this wonderful city. Before leaving you’ll visit the impressive botanical gardens of Inhotim, one of the largest outdoor art centres in Latin America, which contains huge sculptures and interactive installations.

   Accommodation: Solar do Rosario (2 nights)

6. Days 10-13: Salvador

   You’ll need to catch a flight to reach your final destination, Salvador da Bahia, the home of Afro-Brazilian culture which comes alive with the sound of beating drums and dancing as evening falls. A guided historical tour of the city will give you a fascinating insight into the region’s rich and diverse culture and the mysterious religious traditions of Candomblé.

   Salvador is surrounded by beautiful beaches which can be visited over the next few days, or take a boat trip to nearby islands and soak in the views of Salvador from the water. In the evening watch the magical sunset with a zesty Caipirinha at one of the lively bars and make sure you try a moqueca, a hearty seafood stew famous in these parts.

   Accommodation: Casa do Amarelindo (3 nights)

7. Fly home from Salvador

   Make the most of your final morning before transferring to the airport to connect with your flight home.

Paraty, Rio de Janeiro, Tiradentes, Ouro Preto, Salvador