Inspiration for your own tailor-made trip
Rio de Janeiro - Iguacu - Salvador de Bahia
100% customisable for you
After landing in Rio, transfer your home for three nights high up in the district of Santa Teresa. You'll be close to the trendy places of Lapa and Botafogo, ten minutes from Corcovado and a mere 15 minutes from Copacabana and Ipanema. Before giving in to the beach attractions, we suggest you follow the flow and soak in your surroundings. You've also got a guided bike tour today, so grab your helmets and prepare to see the sights.
Today, get ready for a private guided tour of Santa Teresa's art scene and the art of living in Urca. The Santa Teresa district is full of surprises, among which are beautiful views and artists' workshops that open their doors to you. In this part of Rio, time seems to have stopped in the middle of the 20th century. Then head for Urca, one of Rio's oldest districts. This little gem, sandwiched between Copacabana and Botafogo Bay, is a friendly and peaceful district. Many of the Cariocas (Rio dwellers) who inhabit the area have lived there for a very long time. Passing through its flowery alleyways and up to the slopes of Sugarloaf Mountain, take time to explore this village within the city.
In the evenings, Rio comes alive with samba and dance music at the trendy waterfront bars of Leblon, while Botafogo’s alternative neighbourhood pulses with rock, electro, and hip-hop beats, and Lapa’s iconic samba clubs echo with rhythm. Explore this side of Rio alongside a private guide, discovering all of the city's trendiest hotspots.
Earlier in the day, you might have wandered through vibrant markets, visited the MAC (Museum of Contemporary Art), explored contemporary art at the Anita Schwartz gallery, caught a local Fluminense football match at a bar or savoured traditional churrasco (grilled meat) and feijoada (black bean stew).
This morning, you'll transfer to the airport and fly to Iguacu Falls. The next two nights will be spent near the entrance to the Falls National Park on the border of three countries: Brazil, Argentina and Paraguay. On either side of the falls, wooden or iron walkways safely lead you to the heart of these curtains of water and clouds of spray.
The day after arriving, you'll discover this spectacle by bike. It's an original way to explore, offering spectacular views of the waterfalls and jungle beyond.
Prepare to transfer to the airport for your flight to Salvador, where you'll stay at Villa Bahia, a hotel crafted from two colonial-era houses that have been transformed into a serene and sophisticated retreat. The rooms reflect the spread of Portuguese culture across the globe, while still retaining a distinctly Brazilian essence. The hotel's comfort is enhanced by its admirable commitment to sustainability. At the restaurant, the chef masterfully blends French and Brazilian flavours. Two charming courtyards provide a perfect setting for a coffee or a caipirinha, while the pool offers a luxurious escape in this neighbourhood. On the terrace, enjoy a drink or snack while taking in the stunning view of the old town’s rooftops and bell towers. With an imaginative approach and impeccable service, this hotel ensures a memorable stay.
Discover Salvador's districts alongside a private guide today. The historic Pelourinho district, with its vibrant colonial houses, lies in the upper part of the city. In the Lower Town or Cidade Baixa, you can admire the Transfiguration Cathedral, and colonial-era buildings and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the small bars in the Ribeira neighbourhood. Deeply African at heart, Salvador’s multicultural soul is best explored by wandering through its different districts, especially those on the Itapagipe Peninsula, including Bonfim, Ribeira, Montserrat and Pedra Furada. Don’t miss a visit to Feira Sao Joaquim, the city’s largest market, where locals shop for fresh fruits, vegetables and tropical flowers. Continue your tour with a visit to Bonfim Church, a beautiful fusion of religious and popular traditions, where you’ll tie the iconic coloured ‘Senhor Do Bonfim’ bracelet and make three wishes. End the day at the colonial fort of Monte Serrat, where you can watch the sunset over the bay while sipping a caipirinha. On the way, stop by the charming fishing district of Pedra Furada.
It's sadly time to head back home. Transfer to Rio before hopping on the final flight home.
Everything in this itinerary is entirely customisable, down to the smallest details. Here are some more suggestions of what could be included
Each of our trips is entirely tailor-made with originality, quality and cultural immersion in mind. Our team of destination specialists will craft itineraries based on your tastes, using their first-hand knowledge and the help of our in-country team of Concierges and guides. All trips are accompanied by a wide range of additional services, including a 24-hour helpline, the Original Travel app, fast-track airport services and much more.
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Our team of destination experts will get to know you and your unique requirements for your holiday
We work with you to build an ultra-personalised holiday itinerary with your choice of accommodation, experiences and activities
All of our holidays include little extras designed to make a big difference to your trip, from fast-tracking you through airport check-in and security to our network of local Concierges
