Amazon Rainforest and Beaches of Brazil

Manaus is the gateway to the beauty and nature of the Brazilian Amazon. Known as the “Heart of the Amazon,” the city welcomes jungle explorers. Explore the stunning European architecture dating to the rubber boom of the late 19th century when Manaus became a major and important city in Brazil. Admire the mighty Rio Negro (Black River) and Solimões River as they join to form the Amazon River at the Meeting of the Waters.

An Amazon Cruise takes you into the heart of the Amazon rainforest with unparalleled biodiversity. Go exploring in one of the world’s largest rainforests finding unmatched natural beauty.

) During your cruise explore the Rio Negro and Amazon Rivers. Experienced naturalists guide you on this epic adventure. On day one depart from Manaus in the afternoon and head north up the Rio Negro. On day two travel through the Anavilhanas Archipelago disembarking for different excursions through the rainforest. Day three starts back down the Rio Negro, stopping along the way for excursions into the jungle. On day four view the meeting of the Rio Negro and Amazon River with their different color waters side by side without mixing for several kilometers. Finally, on day five return to Manaus in the morning.

Manaus is the gateway to the beauty and nature of the Brazilian Amazon. Known as the “Heart of the Amazon,” the city welcomes jungle explorers. Explore the stunning European architecture dating to the rubber boom of the late 19th century when Manaus became a major and important city in Brazil. Admire the mighty Rio Negro (Black River) and Solimões River as they join to form the Amazon River at the Meeting of the Waters.

The brilliant coastal jewel of San Salvador da Bahia has many firsts attached to it. Established in the mid-16th Century by the Portuguese, it was one of the first colonial cities of the New World and the first Brazilian capital. Salvador was also the first slave port in the Americas. This vibrant city continues to hold on to its rich cultural heritage with its colonial architecture and pulsating African spirit. Find its rhythm in the earthy drumbeats that are played out daily on the streets, as delicious aromas of local kitchens fill the air. This beautiful city’s living, breathing Afro-Brazilian culture is ubiquitous – it is to be found in the music and arts, food and spirituality pervading Salvador. Grand churches with rich gold work and popular processions for African gods and mystical ceremonies are to be found co-existing together. The spicy fragrance of okra, shrimp and deliciously fresh Bahia seafood melded with Afro-Brazilian rhythms and dances that are entirely its own, set San Salvador da Bahia distinctly apart from the crowd.

Discover the fascinating history of this pulsating city on this half day tour. One of the oldest colonial cities to be established in the Americas, Salvador traces its roots to the 16th century Portuguese fortress of São Salvador da Bahia de Todos os Santos. Enjoy a walk along the bay before making your way down tree-lined avenues to reach Pelourinho. It is not surprising that the spectacular and well-preserved colonial architecture surrounding this city center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take a turn around this magnificent town square, admiring all its grand old colonial buildings. Stop by the glorious São Francisco Church, with its extravagant gold leaf baroque designs, before heading to the Largo do Pelourinho, at the heart of this old neighbourhood. (Half Day; Private Activity & Transfers; Fitness Level: Easy; Please bring comfortable walking shoes. Please note that on Sundays, this tour is available only in the morning).

Praia do Forte is a pretty little Brazilian beach town just north of San Salvador, along a coconut and mango grove lined road. Part of the colorful Bahia region, this is a popular seaside tourist destination with sustainable ecological projects. Praia do Forte boasts rich natural history with endangered sea turtles, humpback whales and a host of exotic birds attracted by its extensive coastline and delicate wetland forests. Visit the national reserve which has been working for the preservation of turtles that regularly visit the beaches of Praia do Forte to lay eggs. A charming little church, castle ruins, and beachfront walkways add to its picturesque beauty. The sea, lagoon and pantanal or reserved forest area offer tourists a plethora of kayaking, canoeing and hiking opportunities as well. The little town is also a bird lovers paradise, with opportunities of spotting parakeets, kingfishers, cormorants and kites every day.

Rio de Janiero's famous icons include Copacabana, Sugar Loaf, Samba, Ipanema, Caipirinha cocktails, beach culture and of course the magnificent subtropical rainforests. Brimming with vitality and life, there has never been a better time to explore the beauty and energy of Brazil's unofficial capital.