Rio, Pantanal, Iguassu Falls, Salvador and the Amazon1 departures plannedBrazil is a huge country; only slightly smaller than the USA, it contains half of South America within its borders including a high proportion of the world's rainforest resources. Its inhabitants are noted more for their joie de vivre than for their modesty: "God made the world in six days; the seventh day he devoted to Rio" is the way they see things! We explore the sights and sounds of Rio before heading to the magnificent Iguassu Falls. Further inland to the Pantanal of Mato Grosso, the world's largest wetland area and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve - being very flat it is easy to spot many different mammals, reptiles and amphibians. From here we head to the Amazon near Manaus for exploration into the jungle by foot, boat and canoe from our ecolodge, before ending in the vibrant city of Salvador. In February 2006 and 2007 the trip has added interest in that it coincides with the unforgettable Rio Carnival.Itinerary Day 1 Start Rio; afternoon city tour including cable car to Sugar Loaf mountain. 2 Morning train tour through rainforest of Tijuca to Corcovado Mountain. Return to Pepino Beach; afternoon free to relax or for private exploration. 3 Fly to Foz do Iguacu; visit falls on Argentinian side. 4 Explore the majestic Iguassu Falls from the Brazilian side. Afternoon optional Macuco safari by boat. 5 Fly to Campo Grande; transfer to the Pantanal. 6 / 7 Explore the Pantanal by vehicle, horseback or on foot as we look for mammals, reptiles and countless tropical birds. 9 Fly to Manaus; boat trip deep into the Amazon. 10 / 11 Walking, boat trips, night canoeing, piranha fishing and visit to Indian house in the Amazon. 12 To Manaus; fly to the beautiful city of Salvador. 13 City tour including Modelo market. 14 Morning free; afternoon historical tour of city. 15 Fly to Rio; end Rio.
Accommodation & Meals: 7 nights 3 star hotels, 7 nights eco-lodges. All breakfasts, 3 lunches and 4 dinners included.
Mode of Travel: Travel by internal flight, minibus, canoe, boat, horse, cable car and on foot.
Group Size: Min. 8, max. 16, plus leader and appropriate local guides.