On the trail of the jaguar: Rio, Iguazu & northern Pantanal
From Christ the Redeemer to the roaring waters of the Pantanal, three Brazilian ecosystems in a single journey.
Duration
11 days
From
€3,145/pers.
Ideal seasons
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Style
Guided tour
Comfort
Charm & Character
Travelers
Couple, Solo, With friends
The spirit of travel
Dive into the heart of authentic Brésil, where vibrant cities and wild nature meet for an unforgettable adventure. Start with Rio de Janeiro, a legendary city where you will discover the grand panoramas of the Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf Mountain, before wandering through the colorful streets of Santa Teresa and exploring Rio's historic center. Continue your journey with a breathtaking natural spectacle at the Iguazu Falls, a biodiversity gem where more than 270 majestic waterfalls will enchant you. Then, head to the Pantanal, a true sanctuary for nature lovers, where caimans, capybaras, jaguars and macaws can be observed during boat safaris, hikes and horseback excursions. Finally, end your Brazilian adventure on a high note with one last night in Rio, immersed in the enchanting world of samba.
Between urban exploration, natural wonders and unforgettable encounters with wildlife, this circuit promises you a journey rich in emotions and discoveries, at the heart of the Brazilian soul.
The stages of your journey
Highlights
Day-by-day itinerary
Welcome to Brésil!
Upon your arrival at Rio de Janeiro airport, a local representative will be present to welcome you and transfer you directly to your hotel. Once settled in your room, enjoy your first evening of adventure as you wish!
Rio de Janeiro, with its fascinating blend of beaches and mountains, colonial neighborhoods and modernity, as well as the enchanting rhythms of samba, is recognized as one of the most beautiful cities in the world, featured in the book "A Thousand Places to See Before You Die".
If your flight lands early in the morning, it is possible to organize a visit from the first day. Don't forget to book in advance to make the most of your stay.
Discovery of Rio de Janeiro: Corcovado, Maracanã and historic center
Continue your day with your guide to the Christ the Redeemer. Enjoy a pleasant minibus ride along the Paineiras road, winding through the Corcovado mountains. Be amazed by the majesty of the Christ statue and find the best angle to capture this iconic pose. Appreciate the breathtaking views of the city before returning to your hotel.
The rest of the afternoon is free to explore at your own pace.
Suggestion: For a truly memorable experience, consider a 30-minute helicopter tour over Rio de Janeiro! Remember to book your flight in advance.
Next, you will make a stop in front of the mythical Maracanã stadium (exterior visit), a place steeped in history that hosted the World Cup finals in 1950 and 2014. You will learn more about its importance in Brazilian football. Then, head to the Sambodrome, an iconic venue where the spectacular Rio Carnival parades take place every year.
Next, you will have the opportunity to explore the historic center of Rio, offering a captivating glimpse of the history of this Brazilian metropolis. You will pass by the world-renowned Selarón Steps, the Carioca Aqueduct in the Lapa district, as well as the majestic Rio de Janeiro Cathedral.
The afternoon will be free to enjoy as you wish.
Optional: for an additional fee, a visit inside Maracanã stadium is available. Remember to book in advance.
Suggestions: Experience authentic Brazilian culture by dining at one of the city's best churrascarias, Carretão do Lido, where you will savor delicious Brazilian grilled meats.
After dinner, let yourself be enchanted by the Ginga tropical show, a vibrant journey through Brazilian culture featuring dances such as samba, lambada and bossa nova, live percussion and a stunning demonstration of capoeira, this rhythmic and acrobatic Brazilian martial art.
Book in advance to guarantee your place at this unforgettable show!
Day accompanied by an English-speaking guide
Ascent of Sugarloaf Mountain and Immersion in Santa Teresa
Today, dive into the fascinating world of Rio de Janeiro by discovering the famous Sugarloaf Mountain and the historic neighborhood of Santa Teresa.
After a delicious breakfast, your guide will welcome you to begin a day full of emotions in the heart of this Brazilian metropolis. You will use two elevators from the Urca neighborhood to reach the Morro de Pão de Açúcar, an emblematic granite block of Rio, which takes its name from the indigenous "pau-NH-acuga", meaning high and pointed mountain. This name evolved to become "Pão de Açúcar", or sugarloaf in Portuguese. The 360° panoramic view from the summit, reaching 395 m above sea level, is breathtaking, offering a panorama of golden beaches, lush tropical forest and a bustling city.
Next, explore the Santa Teresa neighborhood. Located in the heart of Rio, this neighborhood is attracting more and more visitors thanks to its natural and architectural attractions, its viewpoints, its cultural centers, its studios, its galleries, its restaurants, its bars and its hotels. Not forgetting its famous carnival parades, Santa Teresa offers a leisure alternative full of serenity in the middle of the metropolis.
The afternoon is free to explore at your own pace.
Suggestion: For a memorable experience, consider flying over the city of Rio de Janeiro by helicopter for 30 minutes! Be sure to book your flight in advance.
Day accompanied by an English-speaking guide
At Iguazu Falls
Rio de Janeiro → Foz do Iguaçu
Today, embark on a flight to Foz do Iguaçu and prepare yourself for an unforgettable experience.
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at your hotel. Then, get ready to be amazed by the Iguazu Falls, one of the greatest natural wonders of the world, featuring over 270 impressive cascades. After visiting the visitor center, continue your exploration towards the magnificent falls. Enjoy a one-kilometer walk, where the surrounding beauty will captivate you. This trail offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the falls, as well as an up-close perspective of the famous Devil's Gorge cascade.
Your adventure will end at the top of Iguazu Falls, accessible by stairs or a panoramic elevator. Then, follow the walkway to the Porto Canoas space, offering a stunning view over the Iguazu River.
After this immersion in the power of the falls, head to the Foz do Iguaçu Bird Park, a tropical sanctuary home to over 150 species of exotic birds. Take a walk through giant aviaries, where you can admire up close macaws, parrots, toucans and many other fascinating species. This center is internationally recognized for its commitment to the protection and rehabilitation of birds from the Brazilian Atlantic forest.
Adventure option: For an adrenaline rush, board a speedboat for a close approach to the cascades, an immersive experience in the heart of the roaring waters (advance booking required).
Day accompanied by an English-speaking guide
Exploration day at Iguazu Falls - Argentine side
Upon your arrival, you will have the opportunity to discover the falls on the Argentine side. This impressive site is home to more than 275 cascades that plunge into the depths over a distance of 2.7 km. Accompanied by an English-speaking guide, you will take a small train that will take you to the most spectacular viewpoint, the « Garganta del Diablo ». At 80 meters high, the powerful masses of water fall before you, offering a monumental aquatic spectacle. The roar of the falls, the mist rising in spirals and the force of nature will leave you with unforgettable memories. Throughout the catwalks, several viewpoints will allow you to admire varied perspectives of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
As an option, you have the possibility to book in advance a speedboat excursion to get as close as possible to the falls.
Recommended: Live a memorable experience by flying over the majestic Iguazu falls in a helicopter offering a breathtaking panoramic view! Considered one of the seven natural wonders of the planet, Iguazu Falls are among the most sought-after destinations in Brasil, and you will quickly understand why. To appreciate their splendor, nothing beats a helicopter flight. During this 10-minute flight, you will enjoy an unobstructed view of Iguazu National Park and its famous cascades from the air. You will also have the opportunity to admire the Garganta del Diablo (Devil's Gorge) from a unique angle. If contemplating this 80-meter fall from the ground is already impressive, imagine the perspective from the sky. This experience will leave you speechless! Remember to book your flight in advance.
Day accompanied by an English-speaking guide
Adventure on the Transpantaneira
Foz do Iguaçu → UeSo Pantanal Lodge
From the airport, we head towards Poconé, the starting point of the famous Transpantaneira. The unpaved road takes us to the Pantanal Lodge pousada. Along the way, we have the opportunity to observe various animals, including caimans, capybaras and tuiuiús.
Upon arrival at the pousada, lunch will be served depending on arrival time, followed by a short rest.
In the late afternoon, we will set out to explore one of our trails, hoping to spot other animal species, before enjoying dinner at the pousada.
After the meal, those who wish can participate in a night hike in search of animals. Don't forget to bring your flashlight!
Please note that the excursion program may vary depending on the season, water level and weather conditions, resulting in a different order of activities compared to the initial itinerary. The exact times of the excursions will be confirmed by the pousada staff.
Practical tips: It is recommended to bring comfortable shoes and sandals, a swimsuit, sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen, light clothing (prefer light colors to avoid insects and heat), a waterproof poncho, an insect repellent, as well as cash for additional expenses (credit cards may not be accepted).
Recommendations: Don't forget to bring binoculars, a flashlight and a camera to capture your experience.
Day accompanied by an English-speaking guide
Hiking & horseback riding in the Pantanal
This morning, at 5:00 AM, we will begin with a dawn walk to admire the sunrise, an unmissable natural spectacle.
After a hearty breakfast, we will embark on an equestrian activity, accessible even to beginners! Back at the pousada, we will enjoy lunch. The afternoon will be dedicated to a boat ride on the Rio Novo or Rio Claro. With a bit of luck, we might spot families of ariyas or anta, as well as a variety of fascinating birds.
Day accompanied by an English-speaking guide
Immersion in the Pantanal
After breakfast, we will start a new walk on one of our trails, hoping to spot more animals.
After lunch, you will have free time to swim in the pool or relax.
In the afternoon, we will go out on a trail again, looking for monkeys, particularly silver monkeys and howler monkeys.
We will then return to the lodge for dinner. For those who wish, a night excursion will also be organized.
At the Heart of Nature
UeSo Pantanal Lodge → Porto Jofre
From 5:00 AM, we will start our day with a coffee. Then, we will head towards Porto Jofre, located 107 km from the end of the Transpantaneira. Along the way, we will have the opportunity to observe numerous alligators, capybaras and a variety of birds.
We will take a break to enjoy a picnic breakfast.
Porto Jofre → UeSo Pantanal Lodge
At Porto Jofre, embark on a 5-hour boat excursion in the Cerrado, aboard simple boats. You will have the chance to admire the pristine nature of the Cuiabá, Tres Irmãos, São Lourenço and Piquiri rivers, while being in the jaguar territory, thus offering great opportunities to spot this majestic predator.
A picnic lunch will be taken on board before heading back to the lodge in late afternoon.
A Last Evening to the Rhythms of Samba
UeSo Pantanal Lodge → Rio de Janeiro
After breakfast, transfer to Cuiabá airport for your flight to Rio.
For your last evening, we recommend attending a samba show or even taking a samba class! Don't worry if you're not an experienced dancer, as you're in the most relaxed and pleasant place in the world. As the locals say: "O mais importante é curtir da experiência!" (the main thing is to enjoy the experience!)
See you soon in Brésil!
Today marks the end of your adventure in Brésil. Although your stay is coming to an end, you will leave with unforgettable memories and enriching experiences.
After leaving your hotel, a transfer is arranged to take you to the airport for your departure flight.
Price per person
Indicative price per person, based on double room. Each trip is customized according to your preferences.
This trip can be tailored to your preferences
This itinerary provides an excellent foundation for discovery, but it can be fully customized. Our local advisors build each trip tailored to your budget, dates and preferences.
Not included
- International flights
- Optional activities & during free days
- Personal expenses & tips
- Meals not mentioned in the programme
- Insurance
Included
- Domestic flights with 23 kg of baggage
- The transfers mentioned in the program
- English-speaking or Portuguese-speaking guide service
- The accommodations and meals mentioned
- Entry fees to the sites mentioned in the program
- The excursions and activities mentioned in the programs
Practical Information
Registration is considered firm and final after payment of a deposit of 30% of the total price and acceptance of the specific terms of sale.
The balance must be paid no later than 45 days before the departure date.
See our specific terms of sale for full details.
In the event of cancellation by the traveller, the following fees apply:
- Plus de 60 jours avant le départ : 40 % du prix total (acompte retenu)
- Entre 60 et 30 jours avant le départ : 50 % du prix total
- Moins de 30 jours avant le départ : 100 % du prix total
We strongly recommend taking out cancellation insurance. See our specific terms of sale for full details.
The information below concerns travelers who are nationals of the European Economic Area (EEA), Switzerland and Canada traveling to Brazil for a tourist stay. Entry rules may change, so we recommend verifying information with official authorities before your departure.
Passport
To enter Brazil, your passport must be valid for the entire duration of your stay and have at least one blank page for immigration stamps.
The document must be in good condition (no damaged, torn or altered pages).
Tourist stay without visa
Nationals of the European Economic Area and Switzerland benefit from visa exemption for tourist stays.
This exemption allows a stay of up to 90 days upon entry to the territory, limited to 180 days per 12-month period. No extension is generally granted beyond this duration without an appropriate visa.
Canadian nationals also benefit from visa exemption for tourist stays, under the same duration conditions.
Authorities may request:
an exit ticket from the territory (return or onward flight),
proof of sufficient financial resources for the duration of your stay,
an accommodation address in Brazil.
Health and vaccinations
No vaccine is mandatory to enter Brazil from the EEA, Switzerland or Canada. However, certain vaccinations are strongly recommended:
yellow fever is recommended for travelers going to Amazonian regions or certain at-risk areas; an international vaccination certificate may be required upon entry if you are arriving from at-risk countries,
vaccinations against hepatitis A, hepatitis B and typhoid are also advised depending on your itinerary.
It is recommended to consult a doctor or international vaccination center before your departure.
Traveling with children
Minors must hold their own valid passport covering the duration of the stay.
When a minor travels without one of their parents or without both parents, a notarized parental authorization may be required by Brazilian authorities upon entry or exit from the territory. This requirement also applies to children of Brazilian nationality. It is advisable to inquire with the Brazilian embassy before departure.
Other nationalities
Entry conditions may vary depending on nationality. Travelers concerned should inquire with the Brazilian embassy or consulate in their country of residence.
To participate in our trips, it is strongly recommended to be insured for repatriation assistance and medical expenses abroad.
Your local agency encourages you to review the specific policy developed with our partner CHAPKA ASSURANCES and AXA ASSISTANCE.
To subscribe to insurance, learn about coverage and rates, follow the link below.
CAP EXPLORER: The complete insurance solution designed for a worry-free trip!
Choose the plan that best suits you:
Explorer'Multirisque
Explorer'Annulation
Explorer'Assistance
Explorer' Complémentaire Carte Bancaire
Specific to our trips, we strongly recommend subscribing to them.
If you choose to subscribe to one of these plans, the policy detailing all coverage and claim declaration procedures is available on the insurer's website.
Your local agency will be aware of it, but only the participant is responsible for complying with claim declaration procedures. The participant must therefore keep this policy with them throughout their trip.
Chapka — Cap Explorer
Our insurance partnerTravel with peace of mind with our partner Chapka. Cancellation, repatriation, medical expenses, baggage… All the coverage for a worry-free trip.
Travel with peace of mind — I'll handle the insuranceFrequently asked questions
To enter Brazil, you must have a valid passport for at least 6 months after your entry date. A visa may be required depending on your nationality. You may be eligible for visa exemption for a tourist stay, with the possibility of extending it locally. Length of stay varies depending on your nationality. Before booking your trip, verify the entry requirements applicable to your nationality with the Brazilian consular authorities in your country of residence.
Go to the My Trips section to find all your projects.
You can send a message to your host directly from the Tea Lounge.
For a tailor-made quality trip, budget between 170 and 280 euros per day and per person, including accommodation, meals, internal transportation and English-speaking guide. International flights (800-1,300 euros round trip) are additional. Brazil is vast: distances require domestic flights.
Your documents are accessible in the Documents tab of your trip.
Absolutely. We adapt each itinerary to match traveler profiles. For families, we prioritize relaxed paces, family-friendly accommodations, fun and educational activities, and comfortable private transfers. Our local English-speaking guides know how to capture children's attention with age-appropriate anecdotes.
It's simple. You exchange with our local team to define your wishes, budget and dates. You receive a detailed itinerary proposal within 48 hours. You adjust every detail together until it's perfect. You confirm and travel with peace of mind. Your local agency remains available 7 days a week throughout your entire trip.
In case of emergency, contact your local agency immediately.
Payment is generally made in two installments.
Our agency is part of the Nomadays network, registered in France. You benefit from APST (Association Professionnelle de Solidarité du Tourisme) guarantee which covers 100% of your funds. Secure payment, repatriation insurance included, and English-speaking assistance 24/7 on the ground throughout your stay.
Let's talk about your adventure — Rio de Janeiro Southeast
Brazilian Experience Designer, based in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Brazil is never told just one way. Every traveler comes with their own desires, and my role is to find the thread that connects the landscapes, encounters, and experiences that match them.
— Daria
