Inspiring Vacations Tours Worth Dreaming About

This morning after breakfast, you’ll meet your local guide who will welcome you and brief you on the next couple days. Then we’ll embark on a full day tour of Rio de Janeiro to see the city’s famous landmarks, like Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf Mountain.We’ll take a scenic drive from Copacabana Beach, continuing along Botafogo Beach and passing the imposing Guanabara Palace on the way to Corcovado Hill. At the top we’ll find the greatest national icon, Christ the Redeemer, standing tall over the city with arms outstretched. This giant Art Deco statue was recently named as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. The panoramic views of the city are lovely from up here, 709 metres at the summit.We’ll then continue on to the district of Urca and the world-famous rocky peak of Sugarloaf Mountain, where you’ll board the first cable car to the top of Urca Hill, enjoying spectacular views of Guanabara Bay.A second cable car takes you on to Sugarloaf, with 360-degree views of the city and surroundings. Sugarloaf Mountain towers over the harbour, 400 metres above the mouth of Guanabara Bay.Afterwards, we’ll pass through the famous beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema en route to a traditional Brazilian lunch at a local churrascaria, an all-you-can-eat barbeque.After lunch, we’ll visit the Maracanã Stadium, home of Bellini’s statue and the Hall of Fame. Brazilians also love their football (soccer) and this is their biggest stadium. Entrance to the stadium is not included. And there will be a stop at the Sambadrome, the stadium for the city’s main Carnival parade.As we pass through the city’s historic centre, you’ll have a chance to see the Lapa Arches. Built in the middle of the 18th century, this aqueduct is an impressive example of colonial architecture and engineering. We’ll also make a quick stop to see the colourful Selaron Stairs, an amazing urban work of art by the late Jorge Selaron. These steps are decorated with more than 2,000 brightly coloured tiles and mirrors.We’ll return to the hotel along Aterro de Flamengo (Flamengo Park), passing by the Monument to the Dead of World War II and the beaches of Flamengo and Botafogo.Tonight will be another night at your leisure to soak up the nightlife of Rio.Inspiring HighlightsChrist the RedeemerSugarloaf MountainCopacabana BeachChurrascaria LunchMaracanã StadiumSelaron StairsPlease note: Maintenance work is taking place at Christ the Redeemer until the end of May 2027, and the escalators are currently out of service. Your visit will proceed as normal to the second level of Alto Corcovado using the lifts and stairs, however from this point you will need to take the stairs to reach the Christ the Redeemer platform. Please be prepared for some additional walking and stair climbing. To allow enough time, departure from your hotel will be around 7:00 am, so we recommend arranging an early breakfast (most hotels begin serving from approximately 6:00 am). Your guide will explain the arrangements on the day.