Rio de Janeiro & Angra dos Reis (Bay of Kings)
8 days / 7 nights
Overview
This is a perfect trip that combines Rio de Janeiro’s highlights, beautiful beaches and untouched nature of the Brazilian coastline. This exciting journey includes charming colonial towns nestled amid the Emerald Coast's nature reserves, clear blue seas, hidden beaches and pristine island sanctuaries. After visiting Rio de Janeiro’s major attractions, continue your trip to the coastal resort of Angra dos Reis and explore “Ilha Grande”, an archipelago comprised of 365 nearby islands surrounding by crystal-clear waters and forest vegetation. Shipwrecks, coral reefs and an exuberant marine fauna are part of the itinerary for those looking forward to diving into the blue-green waters. The journey continues to colonial town of Paraty, attractive for its colorful Portuguese colonial buildings, cobblestone streets and beautiful churches from the 16th century. From the rhythm of Rio, to the islands of Angra dos Reis and the pristine preservation of Paraty, this eclectic 8-day journey of style and surprise taps into the heart and soul of Brazil like none other.
Memorable Moments
- Immerse yourself in the historic heart of Rio and follow your guide through its alleyways to see its colonial buildings;
- Ride the cable car to Sugarloaf Mountain and gain a glimpse behind the scenes of Rio’s lively annual carnival;
- Swim and sail around Brazil's enticing Costa Verde (Green Coast);
- Enjoy a speedboat tour and explore the paradisiacal beaches of Ilha Grande;
- Snorkel with diverse marine life on Botinas Island and Cataguás Island;
- Relax on the bright white sands of Praia do Dentista and Praia de Piedade;
- Enjoy an unforgettable al fresco dining experience.
Itinerary at a glance
Day 1 – Rio de Janeiro – Welcome to Brazil!
Day 2 – Rio de Janeiro – Rio Essentials
Day 3 – From Rio de Janeiro to Angra dos Reis
Day 4 – Angra dos Reis – A Day in the Archipelago
Day 5 – Paraty – Island Hopping
Day 6 – Ilha Grande on Speedboat
Day 7 – Angra dos Reis
Day 8 – Rio de Janeiro – Departure
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Full Itinerary
Upon arrival at Rio de Janeiro International Airport, meet your English-speaking guide who will transfer you to your hotel. After check in, explore and enjoy Rio de Janeiro at your leisure.
Accommodations: Copacabana Palace
This day trip provides a comprehensive tour of the most famous tourist attractions in Rio. Visit the famous statue of Christ the Redeemer – probably the most well-known symbol of Rio, and one of the 7 Wonders of the World. Afterwards walk through the bohemian and picturesque Santa Teresa neighborhood and stop for lunch in one of the greatest restaurants of the area. Continue to the historic center of Rio and visit Praça Quinze de Novembre (November 15 Square), where coronations of Brazilian emperors used to be held; then continue to the Imperial Palace and the cultural center. The tour also includes Uruguaiana street, Carioca square and St Sebastian cathedral, an icon of modernist architecture. At the end of the day, visit the Sugarloaf Mountain – one of the best view points to watch the sunset in Rio.
Meals: Breakfast.
Accommodations: Copacabana Palace
Following breakfast, meet your driver and be transferred to the airport to board your flight to Angra dos Reis. Upon arrival at Angra dos Reis airport, meet your driver and be transferred to your hotel. Check in at FASANO hotel.
Have the rest of the day at leisure.
Meals: Breakfast.
Accommodations: Fasano Hotel
Cruise around Angra dos Reis’s paradise islands and visit five of them, renowned for lush rainforest trails and water brimming with marine life, and stop to swim and snorkel to your heart’s content. Relax on Praia do Dentista and Botinas Island, home to biodiverse marine species. Plus, the boat’s cool box means you can bring your own drinks and snacks for no extra charge.
Meals: Breakfast.
Accommodations: Fasano Hotel
This morning, set out on a Paraty speedboat tour to explore the charming colonial town of Paraty.
Visit the pretty historical center, a grid of whitewashed buildings with doorways and window frames in vivid greens, blues, yellows, and reds. Explore and learn about the building of Paraty and the role it played in Brazilian history. At the arranged time, return to Angra dos Reis and have the evening at leisure.
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch.
Accommodations: Fasano Hotel
Explore one of the most exuberant stretches of Brazil’s coast by speed boat. Discover the many secrets of Ilha Grande, whether at the sea or inland, always surrounded by pristine nature and crystal-clear waters.
Set sail for about 1 hour towards the western tip of Ilha Grande, to the white-sand beaches of Provetá and Ilha dos Meros – perfect spots for snorkeling and scuba diving. Return to Angra dos Reis late in the afternoon, with an amazing sunset as a backdrop.
Meals: Breakfast.
Accommodations: Fasano Hotel
Try your hand at snorkeling or stand up paddle boarding around these fascinating isles. In the afternoon, explore the surrounding towns and villages, keeping an eye out for local handicrafts and artwork.
*For the more active traveler, the bay waters are good for water sports. There is a range of light to heavy treks on some of the islands and treks often lead to refreshing waterfalls on the way and a great beach at the end of it.
Conclude your incredible trip with a private chef-prepared meal. Raise a glass to the memories made and visit again soon!
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner.
Accommodations: Fasano Hotel
Customize This Journey
Choose additional countries and destinations, change property selections, add activities, tours, and more. With Ideas South America, the choice is yours – just ask your travel expert!
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FAQ
April to May and October to November are the best times to visit Rio de Janeiro. The city is not as crowded and the temperatures are slightly cooler than during the summer. Bear in mind that summer in Rio de Janeiro usually comes with very high temperatures, humidity and some summer storms. However, the city’s most notable events — including New Year’s Eve and Carnival — take place during Brazil’s summer which lasts from December through March.
Rio de Janeiro is largely safe. But just like many large cities, there are neighborhoods you should avoid visiting. We do not recommend visiting a favela, even on a guided tour, and stick to Zona Sul (or Rio’s South Zone) which is made up of safer (and more popular) beachfront neighborhoods like Copacabana, Ipanema, Leblon, and Botafogo. The best way to get around Rio is with our local guide who will show you Rio’s cultural gems and will help you explore Rio de Janeiro with peace of mind.
Domestic travel is not restricted, but some conditions may apply
- Face masks are recommended
- There is a social distancing requirement of 1 metre
- Observe COVID-19 safety rules
Brazil’s visa policy is based upon reciprocity, which means that if Brazilian citizens don’t need a visa to enter your home country, you don’t need a visa to enter Brazil. However, citizens of Australia, Canada, Japan, and the U.S. are currently exceptions to this rule and do not need a visa to visit Brazil. You will simply need a valid passport. Contact the nearest Brazilian Embassy or Consulate for advice and consular assistance before booking your trip.
If you’re up-to-date on your standard vaccinations, then you’re all set. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention strongly recommends, that travelers get a yellow fever vaccination before traveling to Brazil. But proof of this vaccination is not required for entry into the country.
If you are planning to travel during peak season (mid-December through end of February) or visit Brazil during Carnival, we strongly recommend to book your trip 12-15 months in advance. If you are planning to travel during mid-season you can start booking 8-6 months in advance. As soon as you know when you want to go, contact us and we will help you with the planning and booking process.
Wi-Fi is available in your hotel in Rio de Janeiro and in your resort in Angra dos Reis. A common challenge among travelers while travelling is finding a café with both great coffee and reliable wi-fi. If you’re looking for wi-fi in Rio de Janeiro, look no further than local cafés. Also, Angra dos Reis has many free hotspots to connect with internet as well.
Definitely. Brazil is a family friendly country that offers activities and attractions that all ages can enjoy, especially in contact with nature. It is full of family-friendly hotels and plenty of interactive activities geared for children. Brazil also offers an abundance of beaches and wildlife viewing opportunities for families to enjoy together.
Brazil is considered the most LGBTQ friendly destination in South America. Rio de Janeiro being one of the best destinations in the world for LGBTQ travelers with plenty of LGBTQ restaurants, beach clubs and nightlife to enjoy.
Tour rates do not include international flights. We find that it is usually less expensive for travelers to book these separately, and this also allows you the flexibility to choose the schedule and routing that is most convenient for you. Alternatively, we can help you arrange these flights.
Yes. We publish special offers periodically throughout the year. Check out our Offers page for the latest offers and on-going discounts.
Yes. You are required to have full travel insurance cover. We strongly recommend a comprehensive travel insurance policy that also includes trip cancellation and other travel mishaps (e.g. flight cancellations or delays, trip interruption, theft or loss of luggage and personal effects).
