Brazil's Culture and History

Brazil has a fascinating history of European settlement that goes back over 500 years. The French, Dutch and particularly the Portuguese left their mark on the culture of the country, as their influence blended with, and in many cases replaced the indigenous cultures that had lived in the region for thousands of years before the arrival of the Europeans. Evident when visiting the many charming, renovated historical towns and city centers, much of Brazil's turbulent past has been preserved. This unforgettable journey through Brazil's colonial past reveals the astounding historical diversity of this country as well as the origins of its people.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1 - Welcome to Brazil (-)

Upon arrival at Rio de Janeiro's international airport you will be warmly welcomed by a Blue World Journeys representative and escorted to your hotel on Copacabana Beach by private car. You will have the rest of the day to enjoy at your leisure, exploring the area around your hotel. Copacabana is home to many great restaurants, bars and nightlife and is a great introduction to this great city.

This evening you will experience your first taste of Brazil's exotic culture during the Ginga Tropical show, which takes you on a musical journey through Brazilian culture with music and dance of the Amazon rainforest, the northeast's capoeira, forro and maculelê and the southern Gauchos of the pampas. The climax of the show is a production of the world famous Carnaval.

Day 2 - Rio de Janeiro Tour (B,L)

This morning you will be met by your guide and escorted on a private tour of the city. Beginning in the downtown area you will first visit the city's contemporary Metropolitan Cathedral, with it's huge stained glass windows and nearby Aterro de Flamenco, a peaceful park offering views over the city. Next you will visit the historic Urca neighborhood on the way to the iconic Sugar Loaf mountain, where you will ascend to the top by cable car to enjoy spectacular panoramic views over the city.

Following a lunch break, your tour will continue to Corcovado Mountain, home of the world-famous Cristo Redentor (Christ the Redeemer) statue and an even more incredible view of Rio.

You can either return to your hotel to enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure or take part in other optional tours including a fascinating favela (slum) tour, or for the more adventurous, hang-gliding or paragliding from a mountain, flying over the city and landing directly on the beach.

Day 3 - Rio Historic Tour (B)

This morning you will visit some of Rio's most impressive historical monuments, starting with the Monastery of São Bento, a UNESCO WorldHeritageSite and one of the finest examples of Brazilian Baroque and Rococo architecture. This monastery, with its somber façadeand magnificent paintings and carvings inside is still in operation, with traditional services held every Sunday with monks singing Gregorian chants. The next stop is the Church of Nossa Senhora da Candelária, dating from 1775 and the largest colonial era church in the city.

As a contrast, and dating from the late 19h century, the Centro Cultural do Banco do Brasil is a large domed building featuring a large display of photography and fine arts. After visiting the Imperial Palace, once the headquarters of the Portuguese government, the tour will conclude with a visit to the National Museum of Fine Arts where the world of Brazil's greatest artists can be viewed.

Day 4 - Guanabara Bay Boat Tour, drive to Paraty (B)

This morning you will be met at your hotel by your guide and escorted to the port to board a schooner for an unforgettable half day boat tour around Rio's coastline. You will have fabulous views of Rio, one of the world's most beautiful cities from your vantage point on deck. Passing the ruins of Forte São Teodósio and Forte SãoJoão, overlooking the entrance to Rio's bay you will learn about the Portuguese settlers who were the first to set up a trading post here.

This afternoon you will be escorted by private vehicle to the the town of Paraty. The drive along the coast is a scenic one and you will have the opportunity to stop along the way for some fresh coconut or sugar cane juice sold by vendors along the side of the road.

Paraty is a small, historic town set in a spectacular natural setting of secluded, tropical beaches, backed by lush rainforest covered, steep mountains. The historic center of town is a beautifully restored colonial living history museum and the architecture of the town makes it a true work of art.

Day 5 - Historic Paraty (B)

This morning you will be escorted on a walking tour of Paraty's historic center. Filled with history and legend, this walking tour introduces the colonial architecture of the late 17th century when the town became established as a port for gold shipments from the mining town of Minas Gerais.

The beautifully restored historical center combined with the spectacular setting of lush, rainforest covered mountainous slopes around town and a stunning tropical archipelago of islands surrounded by emerald colored waters makes this town a truly special place to visit.

This afternoon will be yours to explore the town at your leisure. A boat tour of the nearby islands can be easily arranged.

Day 6 - Paraty to OuroPreto (B)

This morning you will reverse the scenic drive you tool two days ago from Rio, returning to the city in time to catch your flight to Belo Horizonte, from where you will continue by private vehicle through the spectacular and remote mountain range of Serra do Espinhaço to the town of Ouro Preto.

This evening will be at your leisure to explore the delightful town center.

Day 7 - OuroPreto (B,L)

This town, formerly known as Vila Rica is named after the ‘black gold' that was discovered here in 1693 (alluvial gold mixed with iron ore). The town is home to the largest collection of Baroque architecture in the world. Here you will visit the Baroque masterpieces of the church of São Francisco de Assis, dating from 1771 and Nossa Senhora do Pilar, from 1730.

After lunch the tour continues to Mariana, a pleasant nearby mining town, which was once the administrative center of the gold mines of the region.

Day 8 - OuroPreto to Tiradentes (B,L)

This full day tour combines visits to 3 towns in the area - Congonhas, São João del Rei and Tiradentes. Congonhas is home to the greatest masterpiece of AntônioFrancisoLisbon - The TwelveProphets, located in the Basílica do Bom Jesus de Matosinhos. SãoJoão del Rei features a historical center that is home to some of the country's finest colonial churches and mansions, while Tiradentes is a stunningly beautiful village with a major collection of Baroque art and streets filled with quaint, colonial buildings that stand out against a backdrop of the Serra de São José mountains. The town is undeniably gorgeous and is home to a number of boutique hotels and antique stores.

Day 9 - Tiradentes to Recife (B)

This morning you will be met at your hotel by your guide and escorted to the nearby airport for your flight north to the city of Recife. Upon arrival your driver will meet you for the short drive to Olinda, a beautiful and historic city center sitting on a hill overlooking the neighboring city of Recife and the Atlantic Ocean.

Day 10 - Recife and Olinda (B,L)

This morning's tour begins with a drive along the ultra-modern seafront area of Boa Viagem before proceeding to old Recife. Rua do Bom Jesus is the main street in the historic center of Recife, where you will see the architectural style of this old Dutch settlement with buildings that are similar in appearance to many in Amsterdam. You will then visit the Jewish area of town, the site of the first synagogue in the Americas, before visiting the Law Courts, Governor's Palace and Golden Chapel.

Your tour then proceeds to Olinda, a beautiful colonial town and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here you will visit the Monastery of São Bento dating from 1582, which is lavishly decorated with intricate woodcarvings and gold. Before driving to the airport you will have the opportunity to stroll the delightful, cobblestoned streets of the city.

Day 11 - Recife to Salvador (B,D)

This morning you will be escorted to Recife's airport for your flight to Salvador, where you will check in to your centrally located hotel.

This evening you will experience a spectacular cultural show with dinner in a beautiful 18th century complex. As you delight in the unique cuisine of the region a folklore show will be performed presenting the Afro-Brazilian dance and culture of the area, including the fishermen's dance and the world famous Capoeira.

Day 12 - Salvador City Tour (B,L)

A private, guided historical walking tour of this colorful city is a great way to experience the magical energy of Salvador. The Pelourinho is the vibrant heart of the city's historical center and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985. It is a wonderful example of the region's colonial and slave history and filled with interesting sights, including numerous artist's studios, churches, cultural groups, shops, galleries, bars and restaurants.

From the Lacerda Elevator connecting the upper and lower city regions you will enjoy a panoramic view over All Saints Bay and the Modelo Market. There's plenty of time to browse the shops and galleries on today's tour, giving you a great insight into this fascinating city.

Evening will be at your leisure to enjoy the city's nightlife and dining.

Day 13 - Mystic Bahia (B)

The African slave trade of the 17th-19th centuries brought large numbers of Africans to northeast Brazil, mainly to work on the sugar plantations of the area. This influx of people had a huge influence on the culture of the region. After the end of the slave trade, most of the former slaves remained here, continuing their cultural and religious practices, giving this part of Brazil a unique cultural flavor.

This tour takes you in search of this Afro-Brazilian heritage, starting with a visit to the Orixá community at TororóDam, followed by the Terreiro IlêApo Ofonjá, where you can witness a Candomblé ceremony, unique to this part of the country. This evening will be yours to enjoy at your leisure.

Day 14 - Farewell to Brazil (B)

Today you will be escorted to Salvador's International airport for your flight home.

Hotels listed below are given as suggestions only to illustrate the standard of hotels used.

Rio De Janeiro - Luxury - Arena Copacabana

This four-star hotel is situated in the heart of Copacabana Beach. With 123 modern rooms it is a great choice for a luxury Rio hotel. The rooftop pool terrace and open air bar is a great place to enjoy a panoramic view of this world-famous beach. The recently refurbished, modern rooms feature flat-screen TVs, air-conditioning, minibar, soundproofed windows and laptop safes.

 

Rio De Janeiro - Deluxe - Belmond Copacabana Palace

This iconic hotel is one of Rio de Janeiro's most famous landmarks and one of the city's finest hotels. Opening in 1923, this historic hotel has beautifully decorated, stylish rooms featuring English antique furnishings and original artwork. All rooms have either city or beach views, and feature all the luxuries and services you would expect from a world-class five star, luxury hotel.

 

Paraty - Luxury - Pousada da Marquesa

This delightful colonial hotel is located in Paraty's historic center, just a 5-minute walk from the main square. The hotel offers stylishly modern, yet rustic style decor, and features several indoor and outdoor lounge areas around an inviting pool. The air conditioned rooms are all individually furnished and face either the courtyard or the tropical gardens.

 

Paraty - Deluxe - Pousada Literária de Paraty

This beautiful posada is located in the historic center of Paraty. Occupying a spectacularly restored colonial house, the hotel is an oasis of luxury and flawless service. Each of the 23 rooms features individual style and decor and are equipped with a king size bed, air conditioning and all amenities that one would expect from a Conde Nast Johansens award winner in 2015 for best small hotel.

 

OuroPreto - Luxury - Solar do Rosário (Superior Room)
OuroPreto - Deluxe - Solar do Rosário (Suite)

A spectacularly restored colonial mansion, the Solar do Rosário is a beautiful hotel located in the center of town. Occupying a colonial mansion dating from the 19th century, the hotel has 41 luxuriously furnished rooms and suites as well as two rooftop pools with panoramic views over the town and the mountains beyond. It is undoubtedly the finest hotel in town.

 

Tiradentes - Luxury - Solar da Ponte (Superior Room)
Tiradentes - Deluxe - Solar da Ponte (Suite)

This charming country estate offers its guests luxurious furnishings in beautifully decorated colonial style rooms and suites. Many feature four poster beds and allure equipped with air conditioning. The hotel has its own bakery and serves a fine afternoon tea with regional delicacies. A short walk from the town center, this is the perfect place to stay in Tiradentes.

 

Recife / Olinda - Luxury - Pousada do Amparo

This delightful hotel is housed in a fully restored 18th century mansion in the historic center of town. Preserving the colonial style of a bygone age, the individually furnished rooms were designed with a stylish architectural vision preserving the rustic style of the mansion. All rooms feature air conditioners and high quality furnishings.

 

Recife / Olinda - Deluxe - Sheraton Reserva do Paiva

This is the city's leading luxury beach hotel, featuring 298 contemporary, beautifully appointed guest rooms and suites. The hotel is surrounded by lush nature reserves and beautiful beaches. A large pool and leisure area is perfect for relaxing on one of the hotel's sun loungers in the shade of a gazebo, while the hotel's two restaurants offer modern Brazilian and International cuisine.

 

Salvador - Luxury - Casa do Amarelindo

A beautiful and intimate boutique hotel in a restored 16th century mansion in the heart of Pelourinho, the Casa do Amarelindo features high quality rooms, an excellent restaurant serving gastronomic local cuisine, two bars and two tropical patios. The individually furnished rooms feature comfortable beds, powerful showers in modern, fully equipped bathrooms. Some feature whirlpool baths and private balconies.

 

Salvador - Deluxe - Villa Bahia

Two magnificently restored 17th century mansions are home to the Villa Bahia. Located in the vibrant heart of the city's Pelourinho district, the hotel has an authentic colonial atmosphere, featuring a panoramic terrace, a refreshing plunge pool and two delightful garden terraces. Each of the 17 rooms is individually furnished reflecting a period in Bahia's history, some featuring private terraces overlooking the small square in front of the hotel.

 

Pricing

Price fromUS$5765 per person (Luxury Hotels), or US$6255 per person (Deluxe Hotels), for a private tour based on two people traveling in low season sharing a room.

Hotels listed on the Hotels Tab are given as suggestions only to illustrate the standard of hotels used.

Price Includes:

Hotels as described in the itinerary
Services of a Blue World Journeys representative while in Brazil
All transportation and tours as described in the itinerary in a private, air-conditioned vehicle with an English speaking driver/guide
Domestic flights Rio - Belo Horizonte/Tiradentes - Recife - Salvador
Sightseeing and entrance fees
Meals as described in the itinerary

Price Excludes:

International flights
Travel insurance
Meals other than those listed in the itinerary
Gratuities for guides and drivers
Sightseeing other than described in the itinerary
Additional room charges of a personal nature in hotels (eg: room service, laundry, phone calls, etc.)