RIO DE JANEIRO EXPRESS WITH THE IMPERIAL ROUTE AND THE HISTORIC & BAROQUE CITIES IN MINAS
This 8-day journey combines the energy of Rio de Janeiro with the elegance of Brazil’s Imperial and baroque past. Start with breathtaking views from Christ the Redeemer and Sugar Loaf, then immerse yourself in Rio’s vibrant culture and historic landmarks. Continue to Petrópolis, the former summer retreat of the Brazilian monarchy, before traveling through the charming colonial towns of Tiradentes and São João Del Rei. Explore the artistic and cultural heritage of Mariana and the UNESCO World Heritage city of Ouro Preto, known for its gold-adorned churches and cobblestone streets. Conclude in Belo Horizonte, carrying with you a complete experience that blends history, architecture, art, and unforgettable Brazilian landscapes.
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
Full Day: SUGAR LOAF & CORCOVADO WITH ENTRANCES & PANORAMIC CITY TOUR + LUNCH (Private or Regular Service with Spanish-speaking guide, Duration: 8 hours).
We will take the train to the top of Corcovado, crossing the Atlantic rainforest for about 20 minutes to reach the famous Christ the Redeemer statue, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. From its lookout, enjoy breathtaking views of Rio. Back at sea level, visit landmarks such as Maracanã Stadium (outside), the Sambadrome, and the Metropolitan Cathedral. Continue to Sugar Loaf Mountain, reached by cable car from Praia Vermelha through Morro da Urca, up to 396m above sea level. From here, admire spectacular landscapes: the Atlantic rainforest, Guanabara Bay, Copacabana Beach, the Tijuca Massif, and the iconic Christ the Redeemer. Lunch included.
Day 3 – Rio de Janeiro (B)
Half Day: HISTORIC RIO (Private or Regular Service with Spanish-speaking guide, Duration: 4 hours).
Explore the bohemian neighborhood of Santa Teresa, visit Parque das Ruínas (closed on Mondays), and walk the colorful Selarón Steps. Arrive at Lapa, Rio’s traditional nightlife district, then continue to Passeio Público (South America’s oldest public park) and Cinelândia, a lively cultural hub. Final stop at the iconic Confeitaria Colombo (closed on Sundays).
Day 4 – Rio de Janeiro (B) / Petrópolis (L) / Tiradentes (345 km – 5h drive + tour stop)
Half Day: PETRÓPOLIS TOUR WITH ENTRANCES & LUNCH (Duration: 4 hours).
Check-out and departure to the Imperial City of Petrópolis, nestled in the Serra dos Órgãos mountains. Visit the Imperial Museum, once the Austrian-style palace of Emperor Pedro II, featuring treasures such as the Imperial Crown adorned with 600+ diamonds. Continue to São Pedro de Alcântara Cathedral and the Crystal Palace, imported from France as a gift to Princess Isabel. Lunch included (drinks not included). Afterward, transfer to Tiradentes. Arrival and accommodation. Free evening.
Day 5 – Tiradentes (B) / São João Del Rei / Tiradentes (15 km each way)
Full Day: SÃO JOÃO DEL REI & TIRADENTES WITH ENTRANCES (Duration: 8 hours).
Discover São João Del Rei’s historic center with its charming streets, churches, monuments, and museums. Known as the “City of Bells,” it offers rich history and traditions. Later, explore Tiradentes, one of Minas Gerais’ most charming towns, with boutique inns, fine dining, artisan shops, and the magnificent Church of Saint Anthony, one of Aleijadinho’s last projects. The town also hosts world-class gastronomy and film festivals. Return to hotel. Free evening.
Day 6 – Tiradentes (B) / Mariana / Ouro Preto (160 km – 3h drive + tour stop)
Full Day: OURO PRETO & MARIANA WITH ENTRANCES (Duration: 8 hours).
After breakfast, visit Mariana’s main baroque attractions: churches decorated by Mestre Ataíde, sacred art museums, and historic landmarks. Continue to Ouro Preto, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its cobblestone streets, gold-adorned churches, and colonial architecture. Walking tour through its main highlights. Arrival at hotel, check-in, accommodation. Free evening.
Day 7 – Ouro Preto (B) / Congonhas / Belo Horizonte (135 km – 2h30 drive + tour stop)
Half Day: CONGONHAS TOUR WITH ENTRANCES (Duration: 4 hours).
Check-out and transfer to Belo Horizonte with a stop in Congonhas. Visit Aleijadinho’s “Twelve Prophets” sculptures in soapstone and the UNESCO-listed Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Matosinhos. Arrival in Belo Horizonte. Check-in starts at 2:00–3:00 pm. Accommodation. Free evening.
Day 8 – Belo Horizonte (B)
Check-out and transfer to Belo Horizonte airport. End of services.
