Brazil

Perhaps the most iconic of all Rio’s landmarks, Christ the Redeemer stands high atop Corcovado Mountain, soaring some 700 metres above the city. Board the cog railway for a steep ascent through dense rainforest to the summit of Corcovado Mountain. Here, at the feet of Christ the Redeemer, peer down on the breathtaking vista — the whole of Rio stretched out before you.

Get a bird’s-eye view of Rio de Janeiro by helicopter, including the spectacular granite peaks of both Sugar Loaf Mountain and Corcovado Mountain, its golden beaches, as well as an up-close view of the Christ the Redeemer statue. Alternatively, a flight over Iguassu Falls reveals the surrounding wild tropical forest and the immense river that meanders through it. Taller than Niagara Falls and twice as wide, Iguassu Falls straddles the border between Brazil and Argentina.

The Mardi Gras Carnaval is arguably Brazil’s greatest party and being absorbed by the energy is an true foot-moving experience. At other times of year you can still experience the flavour of Carnaval as you set out on a behind-the-scenes journey exploring the artistry of this vast event. Witness the construction and production process of the colourful floats and costumes.

Get a bird’s-eye view of Rio de Janeiro by helicopter, including the spectacular granite peaks of both Sugar Loaf Mountain and Corcovado Mountain, as well as an up-close view of the Christ the Redeemer statue, and panoramic views od Copacabana Beach and Guanabara Bay.

Uncover nature’s wonders on a journey into the Amazon Basin. Head to one of Brazil’s, and the world’s, greatest fluvial archipelago systems, Anavilhanas Ecological Station, a 100,000-hectare mosaic of dense forest and interlocking waterways listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. For something truly unique join our exclusive trip to stay with the remote Kayapo Indigenous community deep in the forest.

Brazil’s vast Pantanal comprises the largest continuous wetland on the planet. Here, jaguar and caiman preside over a wild aquatic kingdom, its boundaries ever shifting with the ebb and flow of the Paraguay River’s tributaries. Venture into the heart of this endless marshland to join a jaguar habituation team as they go about monitoring this near-threatened species.

With a spectacular setting, Paraty lures with its slow pace. Meander through the cobbled streets under shady mango trees, and lose yourself amongst the plethora of cosy cafés, bars and art galleries. Angra offers up crystal clear waters and secluded bays. Glide on a private schooner round the surrounding islands and beaches of rare isolated beauty.

Salvador offers the traveller a historic melting pot of cultures and African heritage with an incredible colonial background. Wander cobbled streets past pastel coloured buildings in Pelourinho, take in the energetic martial art inspired capoeira dancing, feel the beat of the Olodum drummers and bite into the creole flavours of a moqueca fish stew. This is the true soul of Brazil.