In the morning you will head on a tour of Rio. Downtown is the business heart of Rio; it is a part of the city where colonial Rio meets modern skyscrapers. Passing along Rio Branco Avenue, you will see Candelaria Church, which was built in the late 18th century and only completed in 1898. The headquarters of major Brazilian banks and commercial enterprises are also located on this avenue. You will also see the Opera House (Teatro Municipal) and Carioca Square, the Church of Santo Antonio built in the 17th century as well as the contrast of the modern buildings such as Petrobras and the Cathedral. You will see Rio's aqueduct built in the 18th century and these days connects the downtown to the Santa Teresa district, an old residential area. Afterwards, you will drive through Flamengo Park to one of the highlights of Rio. From the park, you can see the famous Sugar Loaf Mountain, this famous mountain is reached by cable car 1,200 feet high (not included). From the top of Sugar Loaf Mountain, you can look down on Rio and discover one of the most spectacular views in the world. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure – the following optional tour can be booked.
Overnight in Rio de Janeiro
Optional: Half Day Jeep Tour Tijuca Forest
One thing that makes Rio so beautiful is the lush green everywhere. The Tijuca Rainforest, plays a large role in keeping the city green and protecting its water sources. Home to hundreds of species of plants and wildlife, waterfalls, trails, vistas and more, spending a few hours in this jungle refreshes and reinvigorates with ease. You'll visit waterfalls, the famous Vista Chinesa, take an easy trail, and learn about the history of this immense urban forest (perhaps the largest in the world), which was reclaimed from farm land in the 19th century.
TO BRING: Camera, sunglasses, hat, water, comfortable shoes, layered clothes appropriate for the weather.
**bathing suit & towel if you plan to take a dip in the waterfall**
Optional: HD Corcovado Tour
Depart from the hotel to visit the Christ Statue, elected as one of the seven modern wonders of the world. The statue sits 2,300 ft. above sea level, atop Corcovado Hill. Following a scenic drive along the Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon, we will arrive at the foot of the hill, where we embark on a small train which climbs the beautiful mountainside. Upon reaching the top, visitors will experience a panoramic view of Rio de Janeiro and discover why it is known as the “Marvelous City”!
