Family Holiday to Brazil: Rio, Iguacu and the Beaches of Buzios

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel this morning, before heading out on a full day’s private tour of Copacabana. Considered one of Rio’s liveliest neighbourhoods, you’ll be guided through the characterful streets teeming with art galleries, artists’ studios and colourful markets. Take in the sweeping panoramic views over Copacabana Beach from the vantage point of Leme Fort, before your knowledgeable guide chooses an excellent spot for lunch. Of course, there’s plenty of time to swim and sunbathe at the beach too, before hopping in a private transfer back to the hotel. Enjoy the hotel amenities before refuelling with some Brazilian cuisine this evening, anyone fancy trying feijoada (bean stew) or churrasco (grilled meat)?

Rise and shine early this morning before heading out to experience what is arguably Rio’s most recognisable sight. Perched upon Mount Corcovado, you’ll find Christ the Redeemer statue. Hop in the Corcovado train and make your way up to this colossal 125ft-tall statue with a private guide, and you’ll be greeted with spectacular aerial views across the Bay of Rio and Sugarloaf Mountain. Capture this unforgettable moment with the family on your camera (silly poses only). Afterwards, head down to some of Rio’s most famous sandy beaches; Ipanema, Arpoador and Copacabana. Soak up the infectious energy of the neighbourhoods, sample enticing street food and enjoy the lively music (and dancers).

If you’d rather a slightly different excursion, we can arrange for you to skip the beaches and head to Tijuca Forest instead. Considered the world’s largest urban forest, take in the stunning views and explore the flora and fauna with an expert guide. A forest rich in hundreds of endemic plant species, and inhabited by monkeys, snakes and parrots, follow a trail that leads to one of Rio's most spectacular peaks: Pedra Bonita. At 2275ft the view of the city is breathtaking. Finish the day’s tour with a trip to Rio’s Botanical Garden, an ecological sanctuary in the heart of the metropolis. This tranquil oasis is home to diverse tropical birds, colourful flowers and lush plants, so enjoy some peace and quiet before heading back to the bustling city.

Today, you’ll be exploring Rio’s historic centre and the arty neighbourhood of Santa Teresa, accompanied by one of its inhabitants who will expertly guide you through the cobblestone alleyways. On the tour, you’ll past cultural attractions including the Sao Bento Monastery, Praca XV, the Church of Candelaria, the Imperial Palace and the Confeitaria Colombo tea room. In Santa Teresa, wander the cafes, artist studios and vintage shops, ending the tour with the impressive Lapa arches.

If your little ones’ legs aren’t too weary, there’s still so much to see of the city. Visit the Museu de Arte Moderna, built in 1960 by Alfonso Eduardo Reidy, for its perfect architecture, or observe trends in contemporary art at the Anita Schwartz Gallery. We also recommend exploring the Maracana Stadium and the huge concrete cone of Sao Sebastiao Cathedral. Sip on Amazonian fruit juice in the cool of a courtyard in Leblon after an exciting day of discovery.

This morning, savour a final breakfast at your hotel overlooking the ocean. It’s time to bid Rio farewell and hop in a private transfer to the airport for the next leg of your itinerary. You’ll catch a short flight (lasting around two hours) to Iguacu, arriving in the afternoon. A private driver will be waiting to take you to your hotel for the next two nights. You’ll be staying in a beautiful resort nestled in the heart of nature, in an intimate location near Iguacu Falls. Settle in for the rest of the day; the children can enjoy splashing around in the hotel’s gorgeous outdoor swimming pool while the parents lounge poolside (cocktail in hand).

It’s an early start this morning, but it’ll be well worth it, as you’ll be embarking on a private guided tour of Iguacu Falls, on the Argentinian side. Perched on the border of Brazil, Argentina and Paraguay, the Iguacu Falls are made up of 257 waterfalls stretching across nearly two miles. Regarded as one of the greatest natural wonders in the world, today, you’ll be getting up close and personal with its thundering cascades. Led by an expert guide, follow the winding wooden walkways to all the best viewpoints in the national park. Today’s adventure will last around five hours, after which you’re free to head back to the hotel for some relaxation time.

More spectacular views of Iguacu Falls await today, but this time, witnessed from Brazil. Make sure you've got your cameras at the ready to capture panoramic views over the Falls. Spend time marvelling at this force of nature, while keeping an eye out for the wildlife that call the surrounding subtropical rainforest home. Who will be the first to spot exotic birds, monkeys or South American coatis?

Head back to your hotel this afternoon, where you’ll be picked up and taken to the airport for a return flight to Rio. Upon arrival, you’ll be privately transferred to the beautiful seaside resort of Buzios, which is about a three-hour drive away. Arriving this evening, you’ll stay in an elegant boutique hotel for the next four nights, located in Buzios’ historic centre. A stone’s throw from the church of Sant’Ana and the beach, the whitewashed hotel with its blue shutters and glazed tiles are reminiscent of the Mediterranean, with a Brazilian twist. Hungry after a busy afternoon of travelling? Consult our Dossier for the best restaurants in the area for dinner, before hitting the hay.

An optional add-on today is a thrilling jeep safari through the jungle and a boat ride through the frothing waters of the Falls. The perfect chance to discover the rich flora and fauna of the rainforest and get closely acquainted with the hundreds of small waterfalls leading to the infamous Devil’s Throat Waterfall.

After an activity-packed itinerary so far, you’re treated to three days of well-earned rest and relaxation in Buzios to end your trip on a high. Refresh with dips in the hotel pools and wander among the lush vegetation of the grounds, or head to the serene west coast beaches for some serious sunbathing and swimming time (those tans aren’t going to catch themselves). Try your hand at fishing or discover the underwater world on a snorkelling trip (Joao Fernandinho and Joao Fernandes are the best beaches for this). And if you still fancy something a little more active, your hotel can arrange a variety of excursions and lessons out on the water, including diving, sailing, sea kayaking, surfing, windsurfing and kitesurfing. You’re spoilt for choice with boat rides, too, ranging from dinky fishing boats to motor cruises and fully crewed yachts. We recommend opting for a private boat tour to best explore the peninsula’s 23 powdery white beaches, natural caves and traditional fishing houses dotted along the shores. At the hotel, enjoy some rejuvenation at the tranquil spa, dine in the fantastic restaurant and catch some live music.