RIO DE JANEIRO EXPRESS, IGUAZU, PANTANAL & AMAZON LODGES
Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey through Brazil, a country of vibrant culture and unparalleled natural beauty. Start in the iconic city of Rio de Janeiro, home to breathtaking beaches and world-famous landmarks. Continue to the majestic Iguazu Falls, one of the most impressive natural wonders of the world. Explore the Pantanal, the largest tropical wetland on the planet, teeming with wildlife. Finally, immerse yourself in the heart of the Amazon Rainforest, where adventure, biodiversity, and mystery await. This itinerary combines culture, nature, and unforgettable experiences for travelers seeking the very best of Brazil.
Activities
Day 1 – Rio de Janeiro
Arrival in Rio and transfer to the hotel.
Check-in begins at 2:00–3:00 pm. Accommodation. Free evening.
Day 2 – Rio de Janeiro (B, L)
Full Day: Sugar Loaf & Corcovado with entrances + Panoramic City Tour & Lunch (Private or Regular Service with Spanish-speaking guide, Duration: 8 hours).
We will first board the train that takes us to Christ the Redeemer. During the 20-minute ride, enjoy the experience of crossing through the lush rainforest before reaching the top of Corcovado. Named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, the Christ the Redeemer viewpoint offers a privileged view of Rio de Janeiro.
Back at sea level, the tour continues with visits to major landmarks such as Maracanã Stadium (outside) and the Sambadrome. We will also visit the Metropolitan Cathedral before heading to Sugar Loaf. At 396 meters above sea level, Sugar Loaf offers a truly memorable experience. The cable car ride begins at Praia Vermelha, ascends to Morro da Urca, and continues to Sugar Loaf Mountain. Connected by two cable lines, it provides breathtaking views at any time of day.
Along the way, admire the exuberant Atlantic Forest, the city’s main beaches such as Copacabana, the Tijuca Massif, Guanabara Bay with Botafogo Cove, and in the background, the “God’s Finger” peak. A panoramic city tour along the beaches is included. Lunch is included.
Day 3 – Rio de Janeiro (B)
Half Day: Historic Rio (Private or Regular Service with Spanish-speaking guide, Duration: 4 hours).
Visit the bohemian neighborhood of Santa Teresa, a bucolic area in Rio de Janeiro. Explore the Parque das Ruínas (closed on Mondays), a public park and art gallery built around the ruins of a mansion. Continue to the colorful Selarón Steps, one of Rio’s iconic landmarks, and head to the lively district of Lapa, known for its traditional nightlife.
Take a stroll through the Passeio Público, the oldest public park in South America, to reach Cinelândia, a bustling area full of bars, restaurants, and cultural attractions. End the tour at the historic Confeitaria Colombo (closed on Sundays), a world-renowned café that consistently ranks among the “must-visit cafés” globally.
Day 4 – Rio de Janeiro (B) / Iguazu
Check-out, transfer to the airport for flight to Foz do Iguaçu.
Arrival and transfer to the hotel.
Check-in begins at 2:00–3:00 pm. Accommodation. Free evening.
Day 5 – Iguazu (B)
Full Day: Brazilian Side of Iguazu Falls + Macuco Safari with entrances (Private or Regular Service with Spanish-speaking guide, Duration: 6 hours).
Start your visit at the Visitors Center before heading to one of the most popular activities: the Macuco Safari. Located inside the Iguazu National Park, this excursion offers a true adventure beneath the falls. The experience includes a ride through the forest in an open electric vehicle, an optional short hike, and finally, a thrilling boat ride that approaches the mighty waterfalls.
While only 25% of the falls are on the Brazilian side, it offers the best panoramic views of the remaining 75% located in Argentina. Walk the 950-meter trail for a close-up view of more than 275 individual cascades and the awe-inspiring Devil’s Throat. A panoramic elevator and a visit to the Porto Canoas food court and souvenir shop complete the day.
Day 6 – Iguazu (B)
Full Day: Argentine Side of Iguazu Falls with entrances (Private or Regular Service with Spanish-speaking guide, Duration: 8 hours).
Cross the border to Argentina (passport/visa required) and board the ecological train to Garganta del Diablo (Devil’s Throat), the largest and most impressive of all falls. Explore the Lower Circuit for closer views of smaller waterfalls, and the Upper Circuit for panoramic views extending to San Martín Island and parts of the Brazilian side.
Day 7 – Iguazu (B) / Cuiabá / Pantanal (L, D)
Check-out, transfer to the airport, and flight to Cuiabá.
Reception at the airport and transfer along the Transpantaneira Highway, a true photographic safari with wildlife observation stops along the way. Arrival at Araras Eco Lodge, welcome, and introduction walk. Climb the 12-meter Garça Observation Tower for sunset views. After dinner, enjoy a night walk to discover the nocturnal life of the Pantanal.
Day 8 – Pantanal (B, L, D)
After breakfast, canoe trip on the Clarinho River. Explore riverbanks, search for giant otters, and try your luck fishing for piranhas. A riverside barbecue lunch is prepared, followed by a hammock rest. In the afternoon, climb the 25-meter Bugio Tower for panoramic views of the Pantanal. After dinner, a nocturnal safari by truck in search of wildlife.
Day 9 – Pantanal / Cuiabá / Manaus (B, L)
Morning walk to appreciate the sunrise in the Pantanal. After breakfast, transfer back to Cuiabá with photo stops. Flight to Manaus. Arrival, transfer to hotel, and free evening.
Day 10 – Manaus (B) / Amazon (L, D)
Pick-up at the airport and transfer to your selected Amazon Lodge. Welcome drink and presentation of activities for the following days. Lunch and dinner included.
Day 11 & 12 – Amazon (B, L, D)
Daily activities included, organized by each lodge according to its own program.
Day 13 – Amazon (B) / Manaus
heck-out and transfer to Manaus airport according to lodge schedule. End of services.
Extra nights and tours in Manaus available for added comfort depending on flight schedules.












