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Awesome Brazil Holidays

Best of Rio

4.8

132 Rreviews

Start: 

Rio de Janeiro

End:

Rio de Janeiro

Duration

8 Days / 7 Nights

Tour Code:

RIO10026

Physical rating:

Easy going

Group Size:

2 to 16

Minimun age:

15 Years Old

Style:

BASIC

Theme:

DISCOVER

Ideal for:

Leisure Travel, Easy-Going Pace, Friends Getaway, Informal Travel, Small Group Travel, Soft Adventure, Tropical Escape, Nature & Landscapes, Sun & Sea, Outdoor Experiences, Local Atmosphere, Sunset Experiences, Brazilian Culture, Colonial Heritage, Urban Icons, Historic Towns, Couples & Friends, First-Time Brazil Visitors

From

USD

$872

Small groups options

Download 

Best of Rio: Rio de Janeiro, Paraty & Ilha Grande

Designed for curious, social, and experience-driven travelers, the Best of Rio is an 8-day journey that captures the rhythm, color, and freedom of Brazil’s most exciting destinations. From iconic city views and buzzing nightlife to laid-back beach towns and tropical island escapes, this itinerary delivers the perfect mix of adventure, culture, and downtime.

Start in Rio de Janeiro, a city that lives outdoors and never slows down. Take in bucket-list sights like Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf Mountain, relax on the legendary beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema, and dive into local life in Lapa, Rio’s historic and bohemian heart. By day, explore street art, markets, and cultural landmarks; by night, experience samba, live music, rooftop bars, and one of South America’s most vibrant nightlife scenes.

Continue along the scenic Costa Verde to Paraty, a colorful colonial town where history meets nature. Wander cobblestone streets, discover hidden cafés and bars, and choose from optional adventures such as island-hopping, waterfall visits, or beach days. Paraty’s relaxed vibe and creative energy make it a favorite stop for travelers looking to slow down without switching off.

End your journey on Ilha Grande, a car-free tropical island known for clear blue water, jungle trails, and unforgettable beaches. Spend your days swimming, snorkeling, hiking to viewpoints, or simply enjoying the island lifestyle with new friends. It’s the perfect place to disconnect, recharge, and wrap up the trip on a high note.

With a balance of guided experiences and free time, the Best of Rio tour is ideal for travelers in their 20s and 30s who want more than sightseeing—those looking to connect with local culture, meet like-minded people, and experience Brazil at its most authentic and unforgettable.

Why you'll love this trip

  • Take in iconic views from Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf Mountain, then unwind on Copacabana and Ipanema, where the city’s energy flows seamlessly into sun, sea, and social beach culture.

  • Lapa the most bohemian neighborhood, where colonial landmarks, street art, samba beats, live music, and buzzing bars create unforgettable nights and local experiences.

  • Paraty - Stroll through colorful cobblestone streets, discover art studios, cafés, and bars, and enjoy a town where history, culture, and slow travel come together effortlessly.


  • Choose from island-hopping, hidden beaches, waterfalls, and rainforest trails—perfect for travelers who want adventure by day and relaxed evenings by night.

This itinerary is valid for departures from 01 January 2026 to 31 December 2026.

Image by Luiza Braun

Important Notice for All Participants

Pack light and choose soft, easily handled luggage, as transfers to Ilha Grande are by boat and accommodations are often reached on foot. Use a waterproof or dry bag for essentials such as documents, electronics, and swimwear, since luggage may be exposed to sea spray during crossings. Comfortable walking shoes, sandals with good grip, and quick-drying clothing will greatly enhance your experience on the island.

Itinerary

  • Depending on your arrival flight at Galeão International Airport (GIG) or Santos Dumont Airport (SDU), you will transfer to your hotel. After check-in and some time to freshen up, begin your introduction to Rio with a relaxed walk along the iconic Copacabana beachfront, taking in the atmosphere of one of the world’s most famous urban beaches. Continue south toward Ipanema, passing local cafés, kiosks, and lively street scenes. In the late afternoon, head to Arpoador Rock to watch the sunset over the Atlantic, with views stretching from Ipanema Beach to the Dois Irmãos mountains. Conclude the day with a casual dinner in Ipanema or Leblon, enjoying contemporary Brazilian cuisine before returning to your hotel for a restful night.Conclude the day with a casual dinner in Ipanema or Leblon, enjoying contemporary Brazilian cuisine, or in Lapa, where a wider selection of traditional restaurants and bars offers more affordable dining options, before returning to your hotel for a restful night.

  • Begin the day with an early departure to Corcovado Mountain to visit Christ the Redeemer, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. From the summit, enjoy panoramic views over Guanabara Bay, Sugarloaf Mountain, and Rio’s beaches. After descending, continue to the bohemian neighborhood of Santa Teresa, known for its colonial houses, art studios, and quiet streets. Walk through the area and visit the iconic Selarón Steps, a vibrant mosaic staircase connecting Santa Teresa to Lapa.

    Enjoy lunch in Santa Teresa or in nearby Lapa, where traditional Brazilian restaurants and casual eateries are abundant. In the afternoon, head to Sugarloaf Mountain, taking the cable car first to Morro da Urca and then to the summit of Sugarloaf. Time your visit for late afternoon to experience sunset, when the city and coastline are bathed in golden light. In the evening, return to your hotel or, if desired, explore Lapa’s nightlife with live samba or choro music to conclude the day.

  • After breakfast, dedicate the morning to exploring a different side of Rio by choosing between nature or culture, depending on your interests. For a nature-focused experience, head into Tijuca National Forest (Optional), the largest urban rainforest in the world, for a guided walk or light hike. Highlights may include the Vista Chinesa viewpoint, scenic trails, and waterfalls surrounded by lush Atlantic Forest. This option offers a refreshing contrast to the city’s beaches and landmarks. In the afternoon, return to the coast for time at Leblon Beach or Ipanema Beach, where you can relax, swim, or simply observe daily life in Rio. The evening is at leisure, ideal for a farewell dinner in one of Rio’s contemporary restaurants or a relaxed beachfront meal before returning to your hotel.

  • After breakfast, check out from your hotel in Rio de Janeiro and begin the scenic transfer south along the Costa Verde toward Paraty. The journey takes approximately four to five hours by private transfer or intercity bus, passing stretches of Atlantic Forest, mountains, and coastal views. Upon arrival in Paraty, check in to your pousada, ideally located within or near the historic center.

    In the afternoon, explore Paraty’s UNESCO-listed historic center on foot. Walk along its cobblestone streets, admire the well-preserved colonial architecture, and visit landmarks such as the Church of Santa Rita, Nossa Senhora do Rosário, and the waterfront promenade. Spend time browsing local artisan shops and small galleries, or enjoy a coffee at a traditional café.

    As the day winds down, enjoy dinner in one of Paraty’s charming restaurants, many of which specialize in seafood and regional dishes. Take an evening stroll through the softly lit old town before returning to your pousada for the night.

  • After breakfast, depart Paraty and travel south to the port of Angra dos Reis or Conceição de Jacareí, depending on your transfer arrangements. The drive takes approximately one to two hours. Upon arrival at the pier, board a shared or private boat for the crossing to Ilha Grande, with the journey lasting between 30 and 90 minutes.

    Arrive at Vila do Abraão, the island’s main village, and check in to your hotel or pousada. After settling in, enjoy a relaxed lunch by the beach. In the afternoon, begin exploring the island with an easy walk or short hike to nearby beaches such as Praia da Preta or Praia do Abraãozinho, or simply unwind on Abraão Beach and swim in the clear waters.

    As evening approaches, return to Vila do Abraão to watch the sunset from the waterfront. Conclude the day with dinner at a local restaurant, enjoying fresh seafood and a laid-back island atmosphere before resting for the night.

  • From Day 6 to Day 7, your stay on Ilha Grande focuses on experiencing the island’s natural beauty at a relaxed pace, combining time on the water, iconic beaches, before a smooth return to Rio de Janeiro.

    On Day 6, you explore Ilha Grande by sea with a full-day boat tour (optional), visiting highlights such as Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Verde, renowned for their clear waters and snorkeling opportunities. The day includes several beach stops, swimming, and lunch at a seaside location, before returning to Vila do Abraão in the late afternoon for a free evening.

    Day 7 is dedicated to enjoying the island’s most famous beaches or simply unwinding. The main highlight is Lopes Mendes Beach (optional), reached by boat and a short hike or by a longer trail, offering pristine white sand and strong surf. Alternatively, this day can be kept flexible for shorter hikes, nearby beaches, kayaking, or snorkeling, allowing you to tailor the experience to your energy level.


  • On Day 8, after breakfast, you depart Ilha Grande by morning boat to the mainland and continue onward to Rio de Janeiro by road transfer. This day serves as a travel and buffer day, ensuring a comfortable return for onward flights or an additional night in the city.

Inclusions

Destinations

Rio de Janeiro > Paraty > Ilha Grande

Meals

7 day Breakfast Included

Transport

All transfers from Airport to Hotel and connecting transfers from Rio to Paraty, Paraty  to Ilha Grande and return to Rio from Ilha Grande.

Accommodation

7 Nights in 3 Star Hotels across the destinations included in the Tour.

Activities Included

The activities included in this tour:

  • Rio Orientation Tour 

  • Corcovado Tour


Not Included

Not Included in this Tour

  • International and domestic flights

  • Meals and beverages not specifically mentioned in the itinerary

  • Optional excursions, activities, and tours not listed as included

  • Any costs arising from itinerary changes due to weather, force majeure, or personal reasons

Basic Travel Insurance Included

This tour includes basic travel insurance for the duration of the program, providing essential coverage for medical emergencies and emergency assistance during the tour dates. Coverage is limited and subject to the terms, conditions, and exclusions established by the insurance provider. Travelers are strongly advised to review the policy details and consider purchasing additional insurance to ensure broader coverage.

Travel with peace of mind — basic travel insurance is included in your tour.

Good to know

Diseño de artículos esenciales de viaje

Before travel - Documentation

  • Valid passport / With more 6 months validity / + 6 blank pages

  • Travel Insurance with medical repatriation coverage

  • Bring cash (local currency) — Limited ATM in Ilha Grande.

Luggage type

  • Expedition back (backpack style) with water-resistant compartiment or water-resistant bag for electronic devices

  • Small backpack with rain cover for on top expeditions

Clothing

  • Pack light, breathable clothing suitable for a tropical climate, including comfortable walking shoes or sandals for city tours and cobblestone streets, as well as sturdy footwear for hikes on Ilha Grande. Bring swimwear, a light cover-up, and a quick-dry towel for beach and boat days. A lightweight rain jacket or poncho is recommended.

Footwear

  • Sport shoes or hiking boots in good shape

  • Lodge shoes such as sandals or flip flops

Accesories & Personal essentials

  • Proper polarized sunglasses, hat and face sunscreen cream

It is recommended to carry a small personal first-aid kit including basic items such as adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, motion-sickness medication, insect repellent, sunscreen, and any personal prescription medications. This is especially useful for beach days, boat excursions, and hikes, where access to pharmacies or medical facilities may be limited

Important Notice – Booking Periods and Group Dates

The booking periods listed under the group section reflect the scheduled departure dates for the Ilha Grande tour. Additional private or special group departures may be arranged upon request and will be confirmed once availability is secured.

Please note that special group departures require a minimum of TWO (2) participants for the tour to operate. If the minimum number is not reached, alternative dates or options will be discussed in advance.

Next departure months from January to December 2026

Booking Conditions

8 DAYS

Accommodation Details

TWIN SHARING ROOM

LAST MINUTE DEAL

USD

$1,089

USD

$872

Per adult in a twin share room

Request your own room from $320

View room details

Dates and prices

Starting

Ending

Prices from

Weekly Departures 

Prices can change anytime

Image by Shot by Cerqueira
Image by Marcos Paulo Prado

This tour runs with weekly departures, so you can jump in whenever it fits your plans. There’s no need to match specific flight dates or fixed schedules—just pick the week that works best for you and go. It’s an easy, flexible way to travel, perfect if you’re building your trip as you go and want the freedom to keep things spontaneous.

January

Sunday 04 Jan 2026                 Sunday 11 Jan 2026                     USD $ 872

Sunday 11 Jan 2026                 Sunday 18 Jan 2026                     USD $ 872

Sunday 18 Jan 2026                 Sunday 25 Jan 2026                     USD $ 872

Sunday 25 Jan 2026                 Sunday 31 Jan 2026                     USD $ 872

February

Sunday 01 Feb 2026                 Sunday 08 Feb 2026                     USD $ 872

Sunday 08 Feb 2026                 Sunday 15 Feb 2026                     USD $ 872

Sunday 15 Feb 2026                 Sunday 22 Feb 2026                     USD $ 872

Sunday 22 Feb 2026                 Sunday 01 Mar 2026                     USD $ 872

March

Sunday 01 Mar 2026                 Sunday 08 Mar 2026                     USD $ 872

Sunday 08 Mar 2026                 Sunday 15 Mar 2026                     USD $ 872

Sunday 15 Mar 2026                 Sunday 22 Mar 2026                     USD $ 872

Sunday 22 Mar 2026                 Sunday 29 Mar 2026                     USD $ 872

Sunday 29 Mar 2026                 Sunday 05 Apr 2026                      USD $ 872

Sunday 05 Apr 2026                 Sunday 12 Apr 2026                     USD $ 872

Sunday 12 Apr 2026                 Sunday 19 Apr 2026                     USD $ 872

Sunday 19 Apr 2026                 Sunday 26 Apr 2026                     USD $ 872

Sunday 26 Apr 2026                 Sunday 03 May 2026                    USD $ 872

April

May

Sunday 03 May 2026                Sunday 10 May 2026                   USD $ 872

Sunday 10 May 2026                Sunday 17 May 2026                   USD $ 872

Sunday 17 May 2026                Sunday 24 May 2026                   USD $ 872

Sunday 24 May 2026                Sunday 31 May 2026                   USD $ 872

June

Sunday 31 May 2026                Sunday 07 Jun 2026                   USD $ 872

Sunday 07 Jun 2026                 Sunday 14 Jun 2026                   USD $ 872

Sunday 14 Jun 2026                 Sunday 21Jun 2026                    USD $ 872

Sunday 21 Jun 2026                 Sunday 28 Jun 2026                   USD $ 872

Sunday 28 Jun 2026                 Sunday 05 Jul 2026                    USD $ 872

July

Sunday 05 Jul 2026                 Sunday 12 Jul 2026                    USD $ 872

Sunday 12 Jul 2026                 Sunday 19 Jul 2026                     USD $ 872

Sunday 19 Jul 2026                 Sunday 26 Jul 2026                     USD $ 872

Sunday 26 Jul 2026                 Sunday 02 Aug 2026                    USD $ 872

August

Sunday 02 Aug 2026               Sunday 09 Aug 2026                   USD $ 872

Sunday 09 Aug 2026               Sunday 16 Aug 2026                   USD $ 872

Sunday 16 Aug 2026               Sunday 23 Aug 2026                    USD $ 872

Sunday 23 Aug 2026               Sunday 30 Aug 2026                    USD $ 872

September

Sunday 30 Aug 2026               Sunday 06 Sep 2026                   USD $ 872

Sunday 06 Sep 2026               Sunday 13 Sep 2026                   USD $ 872

Sunday 13 Sep 2026               Sunday 20 Sep 2026                   USD $ 872

Sunday 20 Sep 2026               Sunday 27 Sep 2026                    USD $ 872

Sunday 27 Sep 2026               Sunday 04 Oct 2026                    USD $ 872

October

Sunday 04 Oct 2026               Sunday 11 Oct 2026                   USD $ 872

Sunday 11 Oct2026                Sunday 18 Oct 2026                    USD $ 872

Sunday 18 Oct 2026               Sunday 25 Oct 2026                    USD $ 872

Sunday 25 Oct 2026               Sunday 01 Nov 2026                    USD $ 872

November

Sunday 01 Nov 2026              Sunday 08 Nov 2026                   USD $ 872

Sunday 08 Nov 2026              Sunday 15 Nov 2026                    USD $ 872

Sunday 15 Nov 2026              Sunday 22 Nov 2026                    USD $ 872

Sunday 22 Nov 2026              Sunday 29 Nov 2026                    USD $ 872

December

Sunday 29 Nov 2026              Sunday 06 Dec 2026                   USD $ 872

Sunday 06 Dec 2026              Sunday 13 Dec 2026                    USD $ 872

Sunday 13 Dec 2026              Sunday 20 Dec 2026                    USD $ 872

Sunday 20 Dec 2026              Sunday 27 Dec 2026                    USD $ 872

Sunday 27 Dec 2026              Sunday 03 Jan 2027                     USD $ 872

Brazil tour reviews

4.6 . 1120 reviews

BEST OF SALVADOR

Xavier

Traveled September 2026 

I travelled with my friend and that was the first time that I booked a tour for 10 days in Malaysia Borneo with a travel agency. I normally travel with my partner and we book and organise everything by ourselves. I was positively impressed how amazing this tour was. Our tour guide Jeffrey did an amazing job.

BEST OF SALVADOR

Xavier

Traveled September 2026 

I travelled with my friend and that was the first time that I booked a tour for 10 days in Malaysia Borneo with a travel agency. I normally travel with my partner and we book and organise everything by ourselves. I was positively impressed how amazing this tour was. Our tour guide Jeffrey did an amazing job.

BEST OF SALVADOR

Xavier

Traveled September 2026 

I travelled with my friend and that was the first time that I booked a tour for 10 days in Malaysia Borneo with a travel agency. I normally travel with my partner and we book and organise everything by ourselves. I was positively impressed how amazing this tour was. Our tour guide Jeffrey did an amazing job.

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