RIO DE JANEIRO EXPRESS & FORTALEZA
Basics of Brazil is a tour designed to let you experience the very best this incredible country has to offer.
Activities
Day 1 – Rio de Janeiro.
Arrival in Rio and transfer to the hotel. Check-in starts at 2:00–3:00 PM. Accommodation. Free evening.
Day 2 – Rio de Janeiro. (B, L)
Full Day SUGARLOAF & CORCOVADO WITH TICKETS + PANORAMIC CITY TOUR AND LUNCH (Private or Regular Service with Spanish-speaking Guide – Duration: 8 hours)
We will first board the train to reach Christ the Redeemer. During this scenic 20-minute train ride, we will pass through the lush tropical forest to reach the top of Corcovado. Named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Christ the Redeemer offers an observation deck with privileged views of Rio de Janeiro.
After descending back to sea level, we will begin visiting the city's most iconic landmarks. We will pass by Maracanã Stadium (outside) and the Sambadrome. Then, we’ll visit the Metropolitan Cathedral and head to Sugarloaf Mountain.
Standing 396 meters above sea level, Sugarloaf offers an inspiring and unforgettable experience. The cable car ride starts at Praia Vermelha station, goes up to Morro da Urca, and finally reaches Sugarloaf Mountain. The two-stage cable car offers breathtaking views at any time of day. Enjoy the lush Atlantic Forest, mountain shapes, beautiful architecture, city center, main beaches, the impressive Tijuca Massif, and Corcovado with the Christ the Redeemer statue; Guanabara Bay with Botafogo Cove; and in the distance, the Serra do Mar mountain range with the iconic “Dedo de Deus” peak. A panoramic drive through the famous Copacabana Beach is also included. Lunch is included.
Day 3 – Rio de Janeiro. (B)
Half-Day HISTORIC RIO TOUR (Private or Regular Service with Spanish-speaking Guide – Duration: 4 hours)
We will explore the bohemian neighborhood of Santa Teresa, a charming and bucolic area in Rio de Janeiro. The visit includes the Ruins Park (closed on Mondays), a public park and art gallery built around the ruins of a mansion.
Next, we will walk down the colorful Selarón Steps, one of Rio’s most famous landmarks, reaching the Lapa neighborhood – the hub of Rio’s traditional nightlife.
We will continue with a walk through the Passeio Público, the oldest public park in South America, leading to Cinelândia, a vibrant area filled with bars, restaurants, and cultural attractions. The last stop is the iconic Confeitaria Colombo (closed on Sundays), a regular member of every list of the “world’s must-visit cafés.”
Day 4 – Rio de Janeiro. (B) / Fortaleza
Check-out and transfer to the airport for your flight to Fortaleza. Arrival in Fortaleza. Check-in starts at 2:00–3:00 PM. Accommodation. Free evening.
Day 5 – Fortaleza. (B)
Half-Day HISTORICAL CITY TOUR IN FORTALEZA (Private Daily or Regular Service – Spanish-speaking Guide – Duration: 3 hours)
This city tour invites you to discover the history and charm of the beautiful city of Fortaleza. The Portuguese were the first non-native settlers of Ceará and, after disputes with the Dutch over Fort Schooneborch, they founded the small village that would officially become Fortaleza de Nossa Senhora da Assunção on April 13, 1726.
Today, Fortaleza is Brazil’s fifth-largest city with a population of over 2.2 million. On this tour, you’ll experience the full spectrum of the city – from the old to the modern.
You’ll see beautifully preserved historic buildings including the Metropolitan Cathedral, Central Market, President Castelo Branco Mausoleum, Martyrs’ Square, Tourism Center, Iracema Statue, Meireles Beach with its famous handicraft fair, Mucuripe’s Raft Harbor, and the popular "Praia do Futuro" beach.
Day 6 – Fortaleza (B)
Full-Day: CANOA QUEBRADA (Private Daily Service – Spanish-speaking Guide – Duration: 8 hours)
Located 167 km from Fortaleza, Canoa Quebrada is considered one of the most exotic, paradisiacal, rustic, and untouched beaches on the Ceará coast. Discovered by travelers from across Brazil and abroad, it attracts visitors in search of mystical and lively places.
Canoa (as the locals call it) has a main street with all the local infrastructure – inns, bars, and restaurants – humorously nicknamed “Broadway.”
Descending the cliffs to the beach, you’ll find many beach huts (small seaside restaurants) serving a variety of seafood dishes. Optional activities include a buggy ride over the dunes or a ride on a traditional raft. Canoa Quebrada beach is symbolized by the iconic crescent moon and star.
Day 7 – Fortaleza. (B)
Free day. Check our service list for optional excursions.
Day 8 – Fortaleza. (B)
Check-out and transfer to Fortaleza Airport at the scheduled time. End of our services.












