Brazil's Iconic Cities & Lush Forest: Iguacu, Brasilia, Rio & the Atlantic Forest

Included in the itinerary - 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 them, surprising views and workshops of artists who 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 an intimate 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 take in this village within the city, sometimes accompanied by cheeky young urchins.

In the evenings, Rio celebrates with samba and dance music in the trendy waterfront bars of Leblon; rock, electro or hip-hop bars in Botafogo's trendy alternative neighbourhood and Lapa's iconic samba clubs. Earlier in the day you may have strolled through the markets; enjoyed a visit to the MAC (Museu de Arte Contemporanea); bought a bikini at Bumbum; contemplated contemporary art trends at the Anita Schwartz gallery, followed a Fluminense (the local club) football match in a bar; admired the Maracana Stadium and Sao Sebastiao Cathedral, Rio's twin temples; indulged in churrasco (grilled meat) and feijoada (black bean and eat stew). You will have experienced the delicious rhythms of one of the most enchanting cities in the world.
Already included in the itinerary: 'Rio by night', a discovery of the latest places to celebrate, accompanied by a local.

Transfer to the airport and flight to Iguacu Falls. Transfer and two nights' accommodation near the entrance to the Falls National Park on the border of three countries: Brazil, Argentina and Paraguay, one of the planet's natural wonders. 257 cataracts spread over one-and-three-quarter-miles, partly in Brazil and partly in Argentina. 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. Your hotel has ring-side seats.
Already included in the itinerary: the next day discover this deafening spectacle, this time by bike. It's an original way to explore, offering spectacular views of the waterfalls and jungle beyond.

Transfer to the airport and flight to Salvador. Transfer and three-nights' accommodation in the Pelourinho. Villa Bahia was created from two colonial period houses turned into a hotel of discreet sophistication. The rooms are a reminder of the dispersion of Portuguese culture around the world. While each remains fully Brazilian. The hotel's comfort is also thanks to the effects of an admirable sustainability ethos. In the restaurant, the chef brilliantly practices a cuisine that brings together two sides of the Atlantic, France and Brazil. Two cool patios allow you to relax while sipping a coffee or a caipirinha. You can fully unwind in the pool, a luxury in this district. On the terrace you can enjoy a drink or snack, but there is also a delightful panorama of the rooftops and bell towers of the old town. An imaginative approach and attentive service are the watchwords in this hotel...

Sao Salvador da Bahia de Todos os Santos, founded in 1549, was the first capital of what was to become Brazil. The historic Pelourinho districy with its colourful houses is in the upper parts of the city. In the Lower Town of Cidade Baixa, you can admire the Transfiguration Cathedral, the official buildings of the colonial period, the sunsets and the small bars of the old quarter of Ribeira. African at heart, multicultural Salvador is best discovered though exploring the different districts. Those of the Itapagipe Peninsula in particular. Bonfim, Ribeira, Montserrat and Pedra Furada. Head to the feira Sao Joaquim, El Salvador's biggest market. This is the place to see Bahia inhabitants go about their business: buying local fruits and vegetables, but also tropical flowers. The 'Bahia pilgrimage' continues with Bonfim Church, a perfect example of an amalgam of religious religious beliefs and popular traditions. It is important to make three wishes when tying the famous coloured 'Senhor Do Bonfim' bracelet to one's wrist. Then head for the colonial fort of Monte Serrat, to see the sun setting across the bay while sipping a caipirinha. On the way, a favourite stopping place is the charming fishing district of Pedra Furada.
Already included in the itinerary: a half-day tour of the districts, accompanied by a guide.