Essential Rio Tour

4 Days

From $ 549

About this SAAT Travel tour: Essential Rio

Rio de Janeiro is without a doubt one of the must-see destinations in South America. The vibrancy of the city’s world-renowned fiestas, along with the stunning skyline and the thriving beach-culture, make it one of the most varied and exciting cities in the world. On the Essential Rio tour you’ll see all the highlights, including visits to Tijuca Forest and Corcovado and trekking up Sugarloaf Mountain for spectacular views of Rio’s sparkling bays, forest covered mountains and the iconic ‘Christ the Redeemer’ statue. You’ll also have plenty of time to hit the late-night Samba bars of Lapa, soak up the sun on Copacabana Beach and watch the sun set over Ipanema.

Day 1
Touchdown in the Marvelous City

Rio de Janeiro
Upon touchdown in Rio you will be welcomed by one of our representatives and shown to your hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to spend either relaxing at your hotel or heading out to explore the nearby beaches, boulevards and boutiques. Ask your specialist for recommendations of interesting places to visit. Sunset in Rio is spectacular and the best place to experience it is with the locals on one of Rio's many beaches. As the sun sets and the mountains begin to cast long shadows over sea and sand under a stunning pink and golden sky, order yourself a caipirinha, sit back and enjoy the show.

Day 2
Tijuca Forest & Corcovado

Rio de Janeiro
After breakfast you'll begin your day with a trip through Tijuca, the largest urban forest in the world, which covers the mountains overlooking the city in a blanket of deep green. You'll then continue on to the top of Corcovado, the 710m mountain that is home to the iconic statue of 'Christ the Redeemer'. From here the views of Guanabara Bay, Sugarloaf Mountain, the beaches and the Atlantic Ocean are breath-taking. You'll then return to your hotel and have the afternoon and evening free to enjoy the beaches, and perhaps head out to the dancing district of Lapa for a little Samba and a caipirinha or three. (Meals - B)

Day 3
Sugarloaf Hike

Rio de Janeiro
The dramatic Sugarloaf Mountain is a well-known Rio landmark. Today, instead of standing in line to ride the aerial cable car with dozens of others, you will have the unique experience of reaching the summit on foot. Starting with a stroll along the beautiful shoreline to warm up, you'll begin a 300m hike to the stunning Sugarloaf summit. From the top the views over Guanabara Bay, Copacabana Beach and up to Corcovado are about as spectacular as you can get. This tour can be extended to a full-day adventure, either kayaking to an island five miles from Sugarloaf or rock-climbing and rappelling. Note: Those not up for the hike can opt to take the cable car to Sugarloaf's summit. (Meals - B)

Day 4
Farewell to Rio

Rio de Janeiro
Depending on the time of your flight you may have time to enjoy a morning on the beach and one last farewell lunch before heading to the airport. Conveniently, international flights often leave Rio de Janeiro in the evening. Whatever the case may be, your guide will pick you up for your transfer to the airport in good time for check-in. (Meals - B)