Rio de Janeiro Short Break

Bem-Vindos! Welcome to Brazil. There is nothing planned for the first day so relax and enjoy.

The locals like to say that 'God made the world in six days, the seventh he devoted to Rio'. In this heaving metropolis, set against the luminescent green of Guanabara Bay and surrounded by the slopes of Sugarloaf and Corcovado, it's hard not to be caught up in the passion of the city's residents (known as Cariocas).

The French were the first to settle here as they logged wood along the Brazilian coast, but they were soon driven out by the Portuguese, who built a fortified town named Sao Sebastiao do Rio de Janeiro and quickly amassed wealth during the gold rush of Minas Gerais. In the 19th century, the Portuguese monarchy fled from the threat of Napoleon in Europe and took up residence in Rio, where they built grand buildings that still stand today.

These days Rio is a fascinating and diverse city best known for its contrasting images of favelas (shanty towns) and the glitz and glamour of Carnaval.

This morning you will be picked up from your hotel to join a city tour to see the sights. From Corcovado Hill we drive the 4km up the mountainside through the world's largest urban national park to the iconic statue of Christ the Redeemer. Take in the sweeping, panoramic views before continuing the drive to the Maracana Stadium, passing the Sambadrome and Metropolitan Cathedral. Next are the famous arches of the Lapa neighbourhood and then on to Copacabana where we stop for lunch - a traditional Brazilian BBQ of course! After eating your fill, travel on to Sugarloaf Mountain and enjoy the views over the city. Then it's back down the mountain and returning to your hotel. The rest of the day and evening is free to spend as you wish. (B/L)

Today is a free day for you to relax on one of Rio’s famous beaches such as Ipanema or Copacabana, or explore the city further at your leisure. (B)

As there are no included activities today you are free to depart at any time. (B)