Go wild on safari in the vast wetlands of the Brazilian Pantanal, travelling by canoe, truck and horse-back to eyeball toothy alligators, giant guinea pigs, leggy storks and many other exotic species.
Ogle and explore one of the world’s most stupendous sets of waterfalls at Iguacú, where clouds of water crash from dizzying heights over a blood-red cliff in a lush, bird-filled tropical park.
Soar above Rio de Janeiro’s fabulous beaches in the most scenic cable-car on the continent, step inside the word-famous Maracanã football stadium, and join in the colourful street-life.
Unwind on the unspoilt island of Ilha Grande, with its history of pirates and prisons, exploring deserted coves and forest trails, based at a family-run pousada: take a trip by romantic schooner to visit hidden beaches and enjoy safe swimming.
We’ve been there
"Children love the Indiana Jones-style wildlife experience of the Pantanal, this pousada is a great place to combine adventure and relaxation (jump into the pool to cool off after the excursions). The guides are very knowledgeable and friendly." Annerys Hockley, Travel Consultant
A bit more time?
Extend your stay with a visit to the darkest Amazon, or go whale-watching down the coast of Southern Brazil.
Where do you sleep?
3 nights Iguacú (tourist class hotel with pool); 3 nights Pantanal at Pousada Do Rio Mutum; 3 nights Rio de Janeiro (modern well-appointed hotel on Copacabana beach); 3 nights Ilha Grande
What do you eat?
Brazil’s best known dish is the scrummy feijoada, a stew of black beans and pork served with rice. Fresh fish and steaks are delicious, and vegetarians can choose from the many pasta dishes and salads. The juice bars are fantastic, as are the ice cream parlours and there is a full range of fast food. The Pantanal lodge offers buffet-style meals with loads of choice.
Top Tip
Enjoy the fun of the continent's last, rickety open air tram service through one of Rio's oldest and most interesting 'villages', Santa Teresa, full of arty shops and friendly local eateries.
Did You Know?
The Maracanã Stadium, built for the 1950 World Cup, is the largest in the world, and can accommodate 170,000 fans. |