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Escorted Tours

Brazil's Rio, Amazon and Beaches


Route:
  • UK
  • Rio de Janeiro
  • Manaus
  • The Amazon
  • Buzios
  • Rio de Janeiro
  • UK
Tour Pace:

11 DAYS from €3695pp

Tour Highlights
  • Captivating city tour of Rio de Janeiro including the Christ the Redeemer Statue
  • Exhilarating cable car journey to the summit of Sugarloaf Mountain
  • Witness the mighty Amazon Rainforest's flourishing flora and fauna on a nature hike
  • Embark on a cruise to discover the Meeting of the Waters where the Negro and Solimoes rivers distinctively meet.
  • Journey to the picturesque coastal resort of Buzios and relax on one of its many golden sandy beaches.

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Brazil's Rio, Amazon and Beaches

Discover one of the world's most captivating destinations, an incredible mix of vibrant cities, golden beaches and verdant rainforests. Get a panoramic view of Rio from the iconic Christ the Redeemer Statue, cruise along the mighty Amazon River and immerse yourself in the rainforest's legendary biodiversity. Finally, treat yourself to some relaxation time on the picture-perfect beaches of Buzios.

Tour Itinerary

1
UK to Rio de Janeiro

Depart London on your scheduled flight direct to Rio de Janeiro. On arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel

2
Rio de Janeiro

A samba rhythm lies at Rio de Janeiro's core and peppers the country's most emblematic landmarks and natural lights, it is no wonder that this city has become the soul of Brazil. After breakfast, embark on a full day's sightseeing tour beginning at a traditional street fair, colourfully lined with fragrant fresh produce. Sample an array of exotic fruit, including tropical guava, acai and juicy pineapple. Next, take the scenic route to the imposing Corcovado Mountain. Travel past the 'Heart of Rio' at Rodrigo de Freitas lagoon, where towering mountainsides and grazing wildlife form a charming backdrop to this picturesque lake. Reaching the foot of Corcovado mountain, board the funicular railway through verdant forestlands along the steep ascent to the summit, soaring to 2,300 feet above sea level. Gaze in awe at the breath-taking vistas overlooking downtown Rio, Copacabana beach and Sugarloaf Mountain, and stand in the shadows of the monumental Christ the Redeemer statue. Next, take an exhilarating trip on a glass-walled cable car to Sugarloaf Mountain, witnessing stunning 360-degree views over the 'Marvellous City'. Standing out against the undulating landscape due to its distinctive resemblance to a refined sugar loaf, soak in the sights and sounds of Rio from a different perspective at this iconic landmark and feel a fresh breeze sweep across your face before descending to level ground. Continue to explore the city with photo stops at the lavish twentieth-century Municipal Theatre, home to the Rio Opera, Orchestra and National Ballet and later, visit Rio Cathedral, a distinctive, contemporary pyramid structure, famed for its evocative crucifix shaped skylight.

  • Breakfast
3
Rio de Janeiro

Spend a day at leisure to explore Rio's spectacular landscapes and pristine golden beaches at your own pace. Perhaps discover the city's lively atmosphere from the buzzing streets, or mingle with locals on Ipanema beach, delighting in the carefree ambience which radiates throughout the city.

  • Breakfast
4
Rio de Janeiro to Manaus to the Amazon

Enjoy another full day in Rio at leisure then, this evening, transfer to Rio airport and board your flight to Manaus, the Amazon's largest city. Journey to the Amazon Eco Park Jungle Lodge, a secluded resort positioned on the peaceful Taruma river banks; boasting a natural pool, private beach and bounteous forestland.

  • Breakfast
5
The Amazon

A nature-lovers paradise, join two exploration excursions today, starting with a nature hike throughout the Amazon rainforest's dense woodland. Listen out to the tuneful whistle of birds hiding in the treetops above and learn about the bio-diverse region's flourishing flora and fauna. Along the route's plentiful creeks and clear streams, keep an eye out for tasty edible fruits, before returning to the lodge for lunch. Embark on an entertaining fishing tour this afternoon from the safety of a paddleboat or motorised canoe; after listening to your guide's helpful tips, with any luck, you may catch an elusive Piranha! Return to the lodge this evening for a delicious evening meal set amidst tranquil surroundings. Please note that some activities may vary due to seasonal changes

  • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
6
The Amazon

Early this morning, board a traditional double-decker boat and gently cruise towards the Meeting of the Waters. Caused by a significant difference in temperature and speed of the water, witness the astonishing natural phenomenon where the Negro and Solimoes rivers meet. Sail along the rugged line distinctively separates the black, deep waters of the Negro river and light brown Solimoes river, which dramatically running alongside each other for an impressive 12 kilometres. Glide towards Manaus' city centre where the ship will cruise past the renaissance-style Amazonas Theatre where its characteristic dome, adorned with 36,000 tiles in the colours of Brazil's National flag, proudly stands out against the edge of the waterside. Heading onwards to the Amazon's industrial seafaring core at the Port of Manaus, make sure to look out for traditional stilt houses along the winding course; constructed primarily of resilient wood which withstands the harsh effects of the river, these unique, historic houses perch in the shadows of swaying trees lining the embankment.

  • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
7
The Amazon to Manaus to Buzios

Enjoy a full final day at leisure by the Amazon, basking in the natural splendour that oozes from this peaceful retreat, before returning after dinner to Manaus' airport for your overnight flight to Rio de Janeiro.

  • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
8
Buzios

Arriving at Rio in the morning, embark on a scenic drive to the quaint seaside resort of Buzios. A former sleepy fishing village, this picturesque peninsular has in recent times become a must-see when in Brazil. Once you have arrived, enjoy a day at leisure to explore one of the most attractive areas in the country. Relax and unwind under the beaming sun at one of Buzios 17 beautiful beaches, lounging on the golden sands and taking a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear turquoise waters, or perhaps witness the peninsula's rustic charm with a stroll along its narrow, cobbled avenues, lined with quaint boutiques and chic restaurants.

  • Breakfast
9
Buzios

Enjoy another day to either relax or to explore this beautiful region at your own pace.

  • Breakfast
10
Buzios

Enjoy another day to either relax or to explore this beautiful region at your own pace.

  • Breakfast
11
Buzios to Rio de Janeiro to the UK

Savour Buzios' blissful charm at leisure this morning before returning to Rio de Janeiro by coach later this afternoon. Transfer to Rio airport for your return flight to the UK or onto your chosen extension.

  • Breakfast

Your Meals

Breakfast is always a western style and served in the hotel each morning. Lunch and Dinner (when included) will be taken in local restaurants or at your accommodation. A variety of restaurants are visited giving you the chance to experience a range of dishes and flavours.

Important Information

Visas

A visa is not required for your trip to Brazil. Further advice should be sought from the applicable tourist authority for other nationalities and for general queries. We strongly advise you check your destinations' Tourist Board or Embassy for the most up-to-date guidelines regarding passport validity.

Insurance

We strongly recommend that you and all members of your party are suitably insured as soon as you book your holiday. It is a condition of booking that you must have suitable travel insurance. It is important that you purchase travel insurance that suitably covers your participation in whatever activities you may undertake at the time that you make your booking. To assist you with this, we have arranged travel insurance in partnership with Holiday Extras. To arrange your travel insurance with Holiday Extras, please call 0800 781 4237 and quote 'WK830' for preferential rates. Please ensure you provide us with the name of your insurer, policy number and their 24-hour emergency contact number as soon as possible. Mercury Holidays will not be liable for any costs incurred by you due to your failure to take out suitable travel insurance from the date of booking.

Payment

If booking more than 10 weeks before departure a deposit of €300pp will need to be paid at the time of booking with the full amount payable at 10 weeks prior to departure. The deposit applies to adults and children. If you are within 10 weeks of travel then the full balance of the holiday will be payable.

Flight Information

You will fly direct from London Heathrow to Rio de Janeiro with British Airways.
You will depart from London Heathrow Terminal 5. For international flight timings for each departure, please see grid below.
Each passenger is entitled to 23kg of hold luggage plus 1 item of hand luggage not exceeding 56cm x 35cm x 22cm in size and one personal item (such as a handbag or laptop case) not exceeding 43cm x 22cm x 25cm. Weight restrictions will be finalised on your final documentation. Should you wish to take additional luggage you will need to pay extra at check-in. Check-in should be at least 3 hours before departure.
IMPORTANT: Please note that final flight details will be confirmed on your final documentation which will be sent to you approximately 10 days before departure. A printed E-ticket is no longer required at check-in, all you need to do is present your passport to the staff at the desk and your boarding pass will be given to you.

Health and Vaccinations

It is your responsibility to check any health and vaccination requirements applicable to your booked arrangements. We can only provide general information about this. Health and hygiene facilities and disease risks vary from country to country. You should take health advice about your own needs as early as possible and in good time before your departure. Sources of information include; www.fco.gov.uk, www.travelhealthpro.org.uk, www.hpa.org.uk, your General Practitioner or a specialist clinic.

Physical Accessibility

This tour is accessible to most people with a good level of fitness and normal mobility. It involves climbing steep stairs and getting on and off coaches. This tour is not suitable for anyone with walking difficulties.

Group Size

The minimum number of travellers in your group will be 10, and the maximum will be 40. If in the unlikely event there are less than 10 people booked on your tour date, we will endeavour to reduce any disruption to your holiday and try to operate your tour with lower passenger numbers. If we are not able to operate your departure date, then you may be asked to change to a different date and a full refund will be made available to you should this alternative not be suitable.

Tour Guide

This is a fully escorted tour meaning that you will be met by a local guide in each of the cities that you visit, ensuring that you have first-hand knowledge at all times.

Currency Information

The currency in Brazil is the Brazilian Real, known as BRL. However, US Dollars are also widely used and recommended throughout both countries and are exchangeable at official outlets. Cash machines are available in all the major cities to withdraw money in the local currency.

Personal Expenses

You will need to take money with you to cover any personal purchases such as souvenirs, laundry, any meals not included in the itinerary as well as drinks and any additional snacks; Approximately £500-£600 per person will be sufficient for the duration of the tour. It is a good idea to try and maintain a supply of small notes and change in the local currency for tipping or small purchases. Please note a room tax is applicable at your hotels in Brazil and is to be paid to directly to the hotel.
It is customary to tip both your driver and guide and is at your discretion. We would recommend approximately £2.00 ($3.00) per person per day in total. This will be collected at the end of your day and can be paid in both local currency and US dollars.

Tour Dates & Prices

Depart UKArrive UKPrice
2023 Dates
29 Sep 202309 Oct 2023€3695.00
2024 Dates

What to expect

Fact File
Currency

Brazilian Real

Average Flying time

13 Hours

Spoken languages

Portuguese

What to pack
  • Sunglasses, Sunscreen and hat in summer
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Camera and charger
  • A plug adaptor (current is 110V and requires a three-prong adaptor)
  • Antibacterial hand gel
  • Binoculars
  • Personal first aid kit
  • Small day pack for excursions
  • Waterproof, lightweight jacket
  • Lightweight clothing
  • Sweater and jacket for the cooler months
Customer Rating:
10/10
Ian Smith
11th Dec 2019

All hotels excellent although Buzios was quite a walk from town centre

  • Value for money
Tour Map
Brazil's Rio, Amazon and Beaches Route Map
Extensions
  • Brazil
    Buzios 2 night Extension

    2 nights from €380pp

    View
  • Brazil
    Buzios Beach Stay

    4 nights from €447pp

    View
  • Argentina
    Iguazu Falls

    4 nights from €1164pp

    View
Here to help

Hotels & Accommodation

Extensions

Buzios 2 night Extension
Tour Route
  • UK
  • Rio de Janeiro
  • Manaus
  • The Amazon
  • Buzios
  • UK

Located a little over 100 miles from Rio de Janeiro, this former fishing village draws both local and international visitors for its expanses of sparkling, emerald water, more than 17 white sand beaches and picturesque cobbled streets and waterfront, which have earned it the well-deserved title of 'Brazil's St. Tropez'.

2 nights
from €380pp
View Tour + Extension
View Tour + Extension
Buzios Beach Stay
Tour Route
  • UK
  • Rio de Janeiro
  • Manaus
  • The Amazon
  • Buzios
  • UK

Located a little over 100 miles from Rio de Janeiro, this former fishing village draws both local and international visitors for its expanses of sparkling, emerald water, more than 17 white sand beaches and picturesque cobbled streets and waterfront, which have earned it the well-deserved title of 'Brazil's St. Tropez'.

4 nights
from €447pp
View Tour + Extension
View Tour + Extension
Iguazu Falls
Tour Route
  • UK
  • Rio de Janeiro
  • Manaus
  • The Amazon
  • Buzios
  • Rio de Janeiro
  • Iguazu
  • Rio de Janeiro
  • UK

Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984, Iguazu National Park is home to incredible waterfalls with water falling from an average height of 70 metres. Explore the routes of the Upper Circuit, Lower Circuit and Devil's Throat. These various trails allow you to get closer to some of the smaller waterfalls as well as enjoy stunning panoramic views at the top of these majestic falls.

4 nights
from €1164pp
View Tour + Extension
View Tour + Extension