This 5-day tour exposes you to Rio de Janeiro's natural, historic, and modern splendours. Marvel at the Christ the Redeemer statue atop Corcovado Mountain, learn about Brazilian emperors at Petrópolis, take a scenic cruise on Guanabara Bay, and enjoy the view from the famous Sugarloaf Mountain.
Day 1: Arrival in Rio de Janeiro
Touch down in Rio de Janeiro, where you're greeted by your guide. Get transferred to your hotel and relax for the rest of the day.
Day 2: Corcovado Mountain & Christ the Redeemer
Drive from your hotel to Cosme Velho, a charming town at the base of Corcovado Mountain. Here, board an 1885 cogwheel train and enjoy a scenic journey up the mountain. At the top, marvel at the Christ the Redeemer statue, which is regarded as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Perched at 2,300 feet (690 m), you can also relish panoramic views of Rio from Corcovado's peak. After a train ride back down the mountain and a drive to your hotel, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy.
Day 3: Petrópolis Excursion
Make the drive out to Petrópolis, an imperial city that was once the summer residence of Brazilian emperors. Visit the Imperial Museum to see how the royalty lived and get a glimpse of the dazzling, diamond-studded imperial crown. Your guide tells you about the monarchs who ruled the country from 1815 to 1889 as you stroll through immaculate gardens.
Before returning to your hotel, visit the Cathedral of Petrópolis whose iconic spire reaches into the sky, and stop by the stunning Crystal Palace where Princess Isabel signed the Golden Law that abolished slavery in Brazil.
Day 4: Guanabara Bay Cruise
Head to Marina da Gloria pier, climb aboard a boat and then set off into the Guanabara Bay. The voyage gives you a look at the rounded peak of Sugarloaf Mountain and takes you under the Rio-Niteroi Bridge. Catch sight of the historic fortifications built to protect the city: the São João, Lajes, and Santa Cruz forts. Circle around the bay, pass the city of Niteroi, and relish panoramic views of Rio de Janeiro from the water.
Day 5: Sugarloaf Mountain & Airport Drop-Off
Start the morning with a scenic drive through city centre and Flamengo Park that ends at the base of Urca Hill, Sugarloaf Mountain's shorter neighbour. Hop aboard a cable car and ascend 720 feet (220 m) to a viewpoint on Urca, then up to Pau de Acucar on Sugarloaf Mountain. At 1,299 feet (396 m) over the harbour, look over Guanabara Bay, the Rio-Niteroi Bridge, and all of Rio de Janeiro buzzing below you. After taking in the sights, head back down the mountain and stop at your hotel before heading to the airport for your return flight.
