8-Day Rio de Janeiro and Ilha Grande Tour with Beaches and Bike Ride

• Welcome to Brazil! Please be prepared to meet in the lobby at 5:30 pm to depart for your welcome dinner. The dinner reservation time will be finalized closer to your trip date. If you plan on arriving today, we recommend flying into Aeropuerto Internacional de Galeão (GIG). Let's raise a glass together to an exciting trip ahead during your welcome dinner! Tonight's gathering will take place at a local restaurant, just a brief 15-minute transfer from the hotel. The evening promises a delightful set menu, offering a taste of the most authentic Brazilian flavors.

Please note that beverages are not included and can be purchased at the venue. Keep in mind that the menu is subject to change based on the confirmed restaurant.

MEAL: Dinner

ACCOMMODATION: Américas Copacabana, or similar

Overnight in Rio de Janeiro.

MEAL: Breakfast

Breakfast is included at the hotel. Windsor Excelsior Hotel provides a buffet-style breakfast with a diverse selection, including scrambled eggs, cold cuts, local pastries, yogurt, cereals, bread, jams, orange juice, and hot drinks. The specific offerings may vary depending on your confirmed hotel.

ACTIVITY: Corcovado Mountain & Christ Redeemer - 2 hours 30 min

• After enjoying breakfast, a quick 30-minute transfer will whisk you away to Corcovado Mountain, an iconic peak located in the heart of the Tijuca Forest National Park. This national park is one of the largest urban forests in the world, renowned for its lush rainforest, diverse wildlife, and stunning natural beauty.
• Upon arrival at the train station, you'll have access to restrooms before boarding the historic cog train for a scenic 25-minute journey to the summit. The train ride offers glimpses of the park's diverse flora and fauna, adding to the anticipation of reaching the summit.
• Upon disembarking from the train, a short staircase of about 50 steps will lead you to the base of the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue, standing at an impressive 98 feet tall with arms outstretched. From the viewing platform around the statue, you'll be mesmerized by panoramic views of Rio de Janeiro, including its famous beaches, mountains, and urban landscape. The views are especially breathtaking on clear days when the entire city stretches out below like a patchwork of buildings and greenery. You'll have ample time to explore the area around the statue, which includes a small chapel and gift shop. Be sure to capture plenty of photos to commemorate your visit.
• Afterward, you'll descend by train, and your vehicle will be waiting to transfer you to the vibrant Lapa neighborhood, known for its lively atmosphere and historic architecture.

ACTIVITY: Lapa Neighborhood & Selarón Steps

• After finishing your visit to Christ the Redeemer, a brief 35-minute transfer will take you to the vibrant Lapa neighborhood, known for its historic charm and lively atmosphere, and considered a cultural hotspot of the city.
• Upon arrival, you'll have some free time to explore the neighborhood and enjoy lunch at your leisure, with your local guide recommending the best restaurants or street food. Please note that the lunch break is about 45 minutes to maintain the flow of the tour and continue visiting the rest of the highlights.
• After lunch, you will take a leisurely stroll around Lapa to reach the iconic Selarón Steps, a colorful mosaic staircase created by the artist Jorge Selarón. The steps are a true work of art, with brightly colored tiles from around the world creating a visually stunning effect. The Selarón Steps have become a popular tourist attraction and are a great spot to take photos and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of Lapa.
• Your visit to Lapa concludes with a stop at the Arcos da Lapa (Lapa Arches), a series of 18th-century aqueducts that now serve as a popular meeting spot and landmark in the neighborhood.
• Afterward, a 40-minute transfer will take you back to your hotel, giving you the afternoon free to enjoy the beautiful beaches of Rio.

Be sure to wear comfortable footwear, a hat, sunscreen, and stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.

MEAL: Breakfast

Breakfast is included at the hotel. Windsor Excelsior Hotel provides a buffet-style breakfast with a diverse selection, including scrambled eggs, cold cuts, local pastries, yogurt, cereals, bread, jams, orange juice, and hot drinks. The specific offerings may vary depending on your confirmed hotel.

ACTIVITY: 2 hours - Beach Bike Tour

• After enjoying a hearty breakfast, gather with your local guide and fellow travelers in the hotel lobby. Today's plan is to embark on a biking tour along the iconic seaside bike path, starting right from the hotel doorstep. You'll be provided with a comfortable bike and helmet for this leisurely 3-mile ride. The biking activity takes place on flat terrain and lasts approximately 1.5 hours, with plenty of time to stop and admire the impressive beaches along the way.
• Your first stop will be at Arpoador Beach, where you can take advantage of the opportunity to visit Arpoador Rock, a popular viewing spot offering breathtaking ocean views.
• Continue your ride to the famous Ipanema Beach, known for its youthful and trendy crowd, with both locals and tourists enjoying the sun, surf, and sand.
• Finally, you'll pedal on to reach Leblon Beach, renowned for its laid-back and less crowded atmosphere. This will mark the end of your biking adventure, and a 20-minute vehicle transfer will take you back to Copacabana Beach, the closest beach to your hotel. Throughout the tour, you'll have the chance to immerse yourself in the beauty of Rio de Janeiro's beaches, experiencing the city's vibrant beach culture and stunning coastal scenery.

ACTIVITY: 4 hours - Copacabana Beach Day & Soccer Lesson

• Afterward, a short transfer will take you to Copacabana Beach, where you will enjoy a beach soccer lesson. Chairs, umbrellas, and snacks are also provided after your lesson. Remember to wear a swimsuit and bring a small backpack with water, a towel, sunscreen, and a change of clothes.

MEAL: Breakfast

Breakfast is included at the hotel. Windsor Excelsior Hotel provides a buffet-style breakfast with a diverse selection, including scrambled eggs, cold cuts, local pastries, yogurt, cereals, bread, jams, orange juice, and hot drinks. The specific offerings may vary depending on your confirmed hotel.

TRANSFER: 3 hours transfer from Rio de Janeiro to Ilha Grande

• Today, say goodbye to the bustling streets of Rio de Janeiro as you embark on a journey to the natural paradise of Ilha Grande. The day is dedicated to traveling from Rio to this stunning island. After enjoying your breakfast, it's time to pack your luggage and check out of the hotel. A private 2-hour vehicle transfer will then take you to Conceição de Jacareí.
• Upon arrival, there will be a short stop where you'll have the opportunity to use the bathrooms for an additional fee. Once everyone is ready, you will board a 30-minute public ferry to reach Ilha Grande. The ferry will take you to Abraão village, where you will walk for about 15 minutes to reach your pousada (hotel). Your luggage will be transferred separately by a luggage carrier. Plan to arrive at your hotel around midday. The rest of the day will be free for you to have lunch and explore the town and beaches at your leisure.
• Upon arrival at your hotel around midday, take some time to explore the charming village and discover a restaurant for a leisurely lunch. The afternoon is yours to enjoy, and you can explore the nearby beaches, including Praia Negra, a hidden gem waiting to be discovered on the island. Keep in mind that there are no cars on this island, so every place in town is within walking distance.

ACCOMMODATION: Pousada So Natureza Hotel, or similar

Overnight in Abrao, Ilha Grande.

For today's adventure, we recommend wearing comfortable shorts and walking shoes. Don't forget to bring a small backpack with your swimsuit, towel, water bottle, sunscreen, flip-flops, and all your other beach essentials.

MEAL: Breakfast

Breakfast is included at the hotel. Pousada So Natureza provides a buffet-style breakfast with a diverse selection, including scrambled eggs, cold cuts, local pastries, yogurt, cereals, bread, jams, orange juice, and hot drinks. The specific offerings may vary depending on your confirmed hotel.

ACTIVITY: 6 hours - Tour Praia de Lopes Mendes

• Today's tour will take you to Lopes Mendes Beach, renowned as one of the top 10 beaches in the world. After your breakfast, enjoy a leisurely 15-minute walk to Abraão pier, where a private boat will be waiting to take you on a scenic journey.
• A 50-minute boat ride will lead you to Pouso Beach, where you'll disembark and begin an easy 30-minute hike along a 0.6-mile trail through the rainforest. The trail features gentle slopes and captivating views, culminating in your arrival at the breathtaking Lopes Mendes Beach. Stretching 1.5 miles, Lopes Mendes Beach boasts fine white sand and crystal-clear waters. At one end, a small creek flows into the ocean, adding to the picturesque scenery. You'll also find a small chapel and a mosaic on a large buoy created by the artist Silvio Cavalheiro.
• For those seeking more adventure, a 20-minute hike leads to the beautiful and secluded Santo Antonio Beach. While at Lopes Mendes Beach, take in the beauty of the surroundings, perfect for both occasional swimmers and experienced surfers.

Please remember to bring water and snacks with you, as there are no kiosks on the beach. Snacks can be purchased in Abraão before the tour or at Pouso Beach, where the boat leaves you. The return time depends on the group's interests but is planned for around 2 pm. Please note that the boat has a maximum capacity of 15 travelers. If the group exceeds this number, it will be split into two boats for the journey.

MEAL: Breakfast

Breakfast is included at the hotel. Pousada So Natureza provides a buffet-style breakfast with a diverse selection, including scrambled eggs, cold cuts, local pastries, yogurt, cereals, bread, jams, orange juice, and hot drinks. The specific offerings may vary depending on your confirmed hotel.

• ACTIVITY: 6 hours
  You’ll get to soak in the stunning views of Brazil’s coastline, complete with sparkling crystal-clear waters, charming beaches, and lush tropical forests. It’s the perfect day to relax and enjoy the natural beauty all around you!
• Departing from Vila do Abraão, immerse yourself in the stunning beauty of Angra dos Reis’ islands. For today's adventure, we recommend wearing comfortable shorts and walking shoes. Don't forget to bring a small backpack with your swimsuit, towel, water bottle, sunscreen, flip-flops, and all your other beach essentials.
• Enjoy a full-day speedboat adventure and discover Dentista Beach, Botinas and Cataguases Islands. You will enjoy an exciting full-day speedboat adventure to the beautiful Paradise Islands in Angra dos Reis. Ilhas Botinas, in particular, offers an ideal spot for snorkeling among vibrant marine life.
• There is also an extra stop where you can enjoy delicious Brazilian cuisine, specializing in seafood. The meal at the restaurant is optional.
• As the adventure ends, return to the charming starting point in Vila do Abraão, where you can reminisce about your unforgettable experiences!

MEAL: Breakfast

Breakfast is included at the hotel. Pousada So Natureza provides a buffet-style breakfast with a diverse selection, including scrambled eggs, cold cuts, local pastries, yogurt, cereals, bread, jams, orange juice, and hot drinks. The specific offerings may vary depending on your confirmed hotel.

TRANSFER: 3 hours - Transfer from Ilha Grande to Rio de Janeiro

• It's time to bid farewell to the beauty and wilderness of Ilha Grande as you make your way back to vibrant Rio de Janeiro. After enjoying your breakfast, it's time to pack your luggage and check out of the hotel. A leisurely 15-minute walk will take you to Abraão Pier. Your luggage will be transferred separately by a luggage carrier. Once at the pier, board a 30-minute public ferry to reach Conceição de Jacareí.
• Upon arrival, there will be a short stop where you'll have the opportunity to use the bathrooms for an additional fee. From there, embark on a 2-hour vehicle drive to Rio de Janeiro.
• Plan to arrive at your hotel after midday. The rest of the day will be free for you to have lunch and explore the town and beaches at your leisure. Alternatively, you can join the optional tour to Sugar Loaf. This tour includes a cable car ascent to one of the best viewpoints in the city, offering breathtaking panoramic views.

MEAL: Dinner

• Later in the afternoon, a 25-minute transfer will take you to a local restaurant known for hosting Brazilian musician shows. Here, you'll have the opportunity to enjoy a delightful meal featuring traditional Brazilian cuisine. Your meal will include one main course, which you can choose from options such as meat, fish, or vegetarian dishes. Additionally, each person will be served a bottle of water and a Caipirinha cocktail, a classic Brazilian drink. Please note that any extra drinks beyond the included ones can be purchased at your own expense. Additionally, the menu options may vary based on the restaurant's availability and preferences.

• All good things must come to an end, but only until your next adventure! Enjoy a final breakfast and then make your own way onward. If departing directly from the hotel, we recommend flying out of Aeropuerto Internacional de Galeão (GIG).

MEAL: Breakfast

Breakfast is included at the hotel. Hotel Plaza Hotel provides a buffet-style breakfast with a diverse selection, including scrambled eggs, cold cuts, local pastries, yogurt, cereals, bread, jams, orange juice, and hot drinks. The specific offerings may vary depending on your confirmed hotel.