After that you’ll all thrill to the power of the Iguazú Falls, which crash over cliffs through rainforest populated by toucans and monkeys: but you won’t just look, you’ll explore close up by boat and on foot, and probably get very wet.

From there, it’s a flight northwards to Bahia, Brazil’s most African-influenced state. Salvador, the capital, has a different vibe from Rio, with a colourful culture reflecting the heritage of the African slaves brought over to work on the plantations. Spot ladies with big smiles selling tropical fruits and young people showing off their skills at the martial art dance capoeira in the street, accompanied by the beat of an African drum which dominates the region’s distinctive musical style. Head inland to Lençois in the remote tableland of Chapada Diamantina, stroll among waterfalls and blue pools, drinking in amazing mountain views. End up at one of the glorious palm-shaded beaches for which the state is justly famous.