Day 1: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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Arrival Airport: Antonio Carlos Jobim International Airport (GIG)

Welcome to Rio de Janeiro! The exotic mix of beach and mountains, colonial neighborhoods and modern style, together with the vibrant sound of Samba everywhere, are the reasons Rio is described as one of the most beautiful cities in the world.

Upon arrival, you'll proceed to the hotel and check in. You'll spend the evening relaxing or, if you're ready to begin exploring, finding your way around Rio and trying some authentic Brazilian dishes.

Accommodation: The Backpacker Cat Hostel or similar

Day 2: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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After a delicious breakfast at the hotel, we will start our busy day full of adventure! Our first stop is Corcovado. Corcovado is among the 'musts' of any visit to Rio. The 2,326-foot (709-meter) humpbacked Corcovado is famous for the majestic statue of Christ the Redeemer located at the top. The Corcovado Hill, together with D. Martha Belvedere, is a mandatory stop in Rio for the beauty of the sightseeing from both locations. From the Corcovado, we can see the beaches of Copacabana, Ipanema, and Leblon, as well as the Rodrigo Freitas Lagoon and the Botanical Garden. From the D. Marta belvedere, the main attractions are the Maracana stadium, Guanabara Bay, and the Sugar Loaf.

After a delicious lunch, you will have the rest of the afternoon to explore on your own, or you can add on a visit to Tijuca Forest. Walk in a forest trail up to the Cascatinha Falls and take in the breathtaking views. We will return to the hotel and have the remainder of the day to explore.

Accommodation: The Backpacker Cat Hostel or similar

Day 3: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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We will embark on an exciting day exploring more of Rio De Janeiro. Today we will be picked up from our hotel to enjoy the other side of wonderful Rio. The tour begins with a city panoramic view through downtown Rio, passing by the Sambadrome and the Metropolitan Cathedral. Get to know the traditional Cinelândia square with historical buildings, the Municipal Theater, the National Library, and the National Museum of Fine Arts. By taking the Aterro do Flamengo, we will be taken to the neighborhood of Urca where the Sugar Loaf is located, one of the largest symbols of the city.

We will spend the rest of the afternoon at leisure, soaking in the sun's rays at the beach or relaxing poolside at the hotel.

Accommodation: The Backpacker Cat Hostel or similar

Day 4: Rio de Janeiro - Foz do Iguacu, Brazil
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Enjoy one last delicious breakfast at your hostel before preparing for our next destination, Iguazu Falls.

Departure Airport: Antonio Carlos Jobim International Airport (GIG)

Arrival Airport: Cataratas del Iguazú International Airport (IGR)

Foz do Iguaçu is a small town that serves as the gate to visit the impressive Iguazu Falls (which have been recently declared as one of the New Seven Natural Wonders!), making it a must-visit destination. Our local hiking guide will meet us upon arrival at our hotel to provide a map and a brief welcome orientation of the area.

Accommodation: Concept Design Hostel or similar

Day 5: Iguazu Falls, Argentina
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After breakfast, we will depart on a full-day tour to the Argentine side of the Iguazu Falls, where we will have intimate views of this unforgettable section of the Iguazu River. An experienced guide will show us the hidden gems of this unique national park and will take us off the beaten path to show us the best views.

Enjoy free time in the afternoon to take a boat ride out to truly experience the falls or continue exploring the many trails. This day will be a real adventure, full of thrills and spills, and is an absolute must for the adventurer at heart.

Accommodation: Concept Design Hostel or similar

Day 6: Iguazu Falls, Brazil
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After breakfast, we will depart on a tour of the Brazilian side of the Iguazu Falls, where we will enjoy vast panoramic views and take in the Falls in their entirety.

Enjoy free time in the afternoon to continue exploring the many trails. We will spend the afternoon exploring the trails and the beauty of this region. After a wonderful day, we will make our way back to our hotel and relax back at our hotel.

Concept Design Hostel or similar

Day 7: Iguazu Falls, Brazil - USA
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After breakfast, you'll pack your bags and check out. Transfer from the hotel to the airport is not included and needs to be arranged on your own, unless you would prefer we set up the transfer for you. If so, you will be met at the hostel lobby by your driver.

Optional Extension to Paraguay

Departure Airport: Cataratas del Iguazú International Airport (IGR)

+ What vaccinations should I get before my trip?

It's important that you receive the most accurate and up-to-date travel health information before departing for South America. The only one qualified to provide you with this advice is your family physician or a specialist from a Travel Health clinic. We can provide some general guidance on what websites to check, but these websites are no substitute for a personal consultation with a qualified medical professional.

+ Can you help arrange my travel visas?

If you are an American traveler joining this trip, you will not need a visa to visit Brazil (or Argentina). If you are a citizen of another country, please use VisaHQ to verify the visa requirements for your travel plans.

In any case, please verify that your passport will have at least six months' remaining validity throughout your entire stay in South America.

+ Do your tours include international airfare?

Travelers arrive from all over the world to begin our tours, and it is not possible to include international airfare in our prices. We would be happy to help you arrange flights. Just ask for an air quote when making your booking.

+ What should I pack for my trip to Brazil?

Great question! We've actually put together a packing guide to Brazil. We recommend that you refer to this article when packing (and we also recommend that you begin packing several days before you depart for Brazil, in case you need extra time to gather or purchase your belongings).

+ I'm a solo traveler — will I be charged a single supplement?

We are happy to accommodate single travelers! Please note that we will add a single supplement charge to your trip cost. We look forward to putting together your dream trip!