Discover the very best of South America's natural and man-made wonders in style
Personalised journeys from start to finish
Every trip helps support Conservation
Every detail taken care of
Itinerary highlights
- Delve deep into the secrets and scenery of Peru's Sacred Valley
- Enjoy a private tour of magnificent Machu Picchu
- Enjoy a thrilling boat trip at Iguassu Falls
- Visit the iconic Christ the Redeemer on Corcovado Mountain
- Take a cable car to the top of Sugarloaf Mountain
What's included
- Private tours of Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley, Cusco, Iguassu Falls and Rio de Janeiro
- Luxury train to Machu Picchu
- Iguassu Falls Gran Aventura boat trip
- Luxury accommodation throughout
- Meet and greet airport service
- Full support from your Travel Designer and Concierge before, during and after your trip
At a glance
This 12-day trip trip takes you to some of South America’s most iconic sights, from Peru’s ancient citadels and sweeping valleys to the crashing waterfalls and epic capital of Brazil.
Your adventure starts in Peru’s beautiful Sacred Valley, an area rich in history and communities living the same way they have been for centuries. You’ll visit Ollantaytambo Fortress, clinging to the sides of the mountains, as well as the salt terraces of Maras and the Inca ruins of Moray.
From here you’ll catch the train to Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. The Lost Incan City is one of South America’s most evocative sights and your expert guide will bring it to life on a private tour. After spending a night in your luxury lodge, you’ll enjoy some time by yourself to explore before catching the train to Cusco where you’ll have two days to discover this beautiful colonial city.
It’s then onto Brazil, starting with two days exploring the mighty Iguassu Falls. With 275 falls cascading over almost three kilometres of the Parana River, this is an incredible sight and you’ll have the chance to explore both the Brazilian and Argentinian side, getting right up close and feeling the spray on a boat trip.
The final stop of your epic adventure is one of the greatest cities of them all, Rio de Janeiro. This incredible city has an energy that is undeniably contagious, and you’ll spend your time visiting the likes of the Christ the Redeemer, the historic centre and heading to the top of Sugarloaf mountain for one of the best views over the city, hills and beaches.
Example trip itinerary
The Sacred Valley
Transfer
Meet and greet at Lima airport
Flight
Flight from Lima to Cusco
Transfer
Private transfer to your hotel in the Sacred Valley
Accommodation in The Sacred Valley
Sacred Valley
Overview
This is without doubt one of the most comfortable and luxurious places to stay in the Sacred Valley. Set in a beautiful spot by the Urubamba river the hotel is close to the Incan fortress of Ollantaytambo. The construction and design of the 22 rooms is in keeping with the rustic surrounds of this historic location with extensive use of natural materials, yet never compromising on luxury.
The hotel has a good restaurant and a high quality 230 square metre spa in which to relax after a day exploring the area. There are also two very spacious and well-appointed villas suitable for families or groups of friends travelling together.
→ Find out moreSacred Valley
Highlights
- 43 casitas
- Relais & Chateaux Restaurant
- Adjoining ranch and stables
- Birdwatching
- Cooking classes
- Andean weaving
- Pottery workshops
- Mountain bike tours and trekking
- Visits to sites around the Sacred Valley
- Kayaking
Overview
Set among beautiful gardens in the magnificent location of the Sacred Valley, Sol y Luna is a charming and comfortable hotel with wonderfully relaxing amenities. Your bungalow, or ‘casita’, is designed with Andean touches and stylish interiors and boasts gorgeous views of the surrounding landscape. Spend your days exploring the Sacred Valley of the Incas where you can partake in exciting activities such as horse riding, bird watching and para-gliding.
Back at Sol y Luna the indulgent spa, sauna and pool is a peaceful place for you to unwind, while the dining consists of a number of Relais & Chateaux member restaurants: Killa Wasi, where Peruvian and European cuisine is served and Wayra, a separate restaurant set in the hotel’s Wayra ranch where Andean cuisine pays homage to the wealth of natural ingredients cultivated in the Sacred Valley since the time of the Incas. There is also a bar, Chicha Wasi, where you can enjoy authentic pisco sours.
The hotel is also recognised for its community initiatives, particularly in education. After 10 years of working with different schools and programs, Sol y Luna opened the Sol y Luna Intercultural School, providing educational services to a number of local students. The hotel recently started another initiative, Sol y Luna Home, which provides a safe home for children without a family or who are victims of violence.
→ Find out moreSacred Valley
Overview
Tucked away in one of the Sacred Valley’s most secluded haciendas, next to the tiny village of Urquillos and close to many of the area’s most important Inca settlements, explora Valle Sagrado is the wonderful hub from which to explore this incredible region of Peru.
Carefully built within an ancient corn plantation set on Inca terraces, 50 rooms – six of which are suites – drink in views of the surrounding fields and mountains. Each is modern in its simplicity and thoroughly comfortable.
There is an outdoor swimming pool, with hot tubs, massage room, steam rooms and saunas all set within a carefully preserved colonial building, Pumacahua House. A communal dining room, bar, library and living area sit at the heart of the property.
Guests stay here on a three night all inclusive basis, discovering the area with a selection of over 20 exploration activities. These include a range of hikes to colonial towns, snowcapped mountains, high altitude lagoons and Inca archaeological sites, half and full day mountain bike rides and tours to Cusco, Machu Picchu, or more off-the-beaten track locations.
→ Find out moreSpend your time relaxing and exploring the incredible scenery of the Sacred Valley. It's a great place to experience the culture of Peru and the landscape is breathtaking.
Visit the Inca fortress town of Ollantaytambo. The site was built just as the Spaniards arrived and is one of the most important if not visible vestiges of how the Incas inhabited and functioned in their cities making it a fascinating place to explore. There is a fortress at the top of the hill (and quite a few steps) which is particularly interesting to investigate for the techniques the Incas used in its construction.
Explore the fascinating and beautiful sites of Maras and Moray. Maras is an open system of terraces that has been used for centuries to harvest salt from a stream of mineral rich water that comes from within the mountain. Moray is an ancient system of Inca terraces which they used to acclimatise new plants to the high altitude environment.
Transfer
Private transfer to Ollanta Station
Transfer
Train to Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu
Trains to Machu Picchu
Luxury train journeys in Peru
Highlights
- Dining and bar car
- Observation car
- Multiple carriages to relax
- Brunch and dinner served
- Relax and be transported
Overview
Named after the first American to discover the Incan hilltop citadel in 1911 and owned by Orient Express, the Hiram Bingham is a world-class luxury train. Travellers on the train are driven to Poroy station just outside Cusco to board the exclusive blue and gold painted carriages and for just over three hours you are resplendently transported to Aguacalientes, the town beneath the ruins.
Aboard, the 1920s Pullman carriages reflect the opulence of the locomotive era bedecked in polished brass, wood panels and rich, comfy seating. There is also a period observation car at the rear.
Brunch on the outward journey and dinner on your return are included. These are taken in the elegant dining car replete with white-linen tablecloths, clinking crystal, and you are looked after by the smartest team of waiters. Whilst feasting on fine Peruvian cuisine the steamy forest scenery unfolds right in front of you and there’s a great bar car that often has live music on the return leg, or you can just simply relax into a snug armchair in one of the carriages.
Escorted to the Lost City of the Incas there is a small-group guided tour included, but for those who would like a more exclusive visit we can easily arrange a private one for you.
→ Find out moreLuxury train journeys in Peru
Highlights
- Sit back and take in the views
- Toilet facilities
- Comfortable leather seats
- Snack service
Overview
The Vistadome train takes you to the magnificent ancient Incan citadel of Machu Picchu in superb modern comfort.
As per its name, the train has wide glass windows built into the roof and sides of the carriages so you really do get to see the rich Peruvian countryside rushing by. Large leather seats, air conditioning, heating, and good service reflects all the contemporary efficiency and standards of Peru Rail too.
If you’re looking immerse in the surroundings this is a unique way to connect with the scenery en-route to Machu Picchu.
Traditional snack food is provided on board made using local ingredients for an experience of the Andean cuisine. On the return trip you can also watch live traditional dance performances, inspired from the ancient cultures of this region.
→ Find out moreYour private guide will take you on a comprehensive tour of the Machu Picchu citadel, really bringing it to life by detailing the history, significance and myths surrounding it as well as taking you to the hidden corners and best viewpoints. After your tour, you'll descend to Aguas Calientes for a delicious lunch at the rustically elegant Inkaterra hotel, before an afternoon at leisure. You can explore the areas around Machu Picchu or carry on exploring the ruins.
Return in the evening to overnight at your chosen hotel in the Machu Picchu area.
Accommodation in Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu
Highlights
- Restaurant, bar & cafe
- Visit the Machu Picchu Citadel
- Nature walks
- Tea plantation
- Bird watching
- Hiking
Overview
The hotel consists of several whitewashed cottages in an Andean village located in the heart of Aguas Calientes, part of the historical Machu Picchu attraction.
Tea time and evening nature shows are offered each day, and the hotel has a spa and yoga facility. The spacious rooms all have a fireplace and thick, handmade alpaca wool blankets cover each bed making it a perfect place for simple relaxing before and after your Machu Picchu excursion.
Inkaterra is a leader in ecotourism and sustainable development in Peru. They have a commitment to research, and sharing knowledge about biodiversity and culture with the world through authentic travel experiences. Because of this, they have been granted the First International Certificate in Sustainable Tourism given by Control Union Green Choice and the Sustainable Tourism Standard Conservation Award. They are also Rainforest Alliance verified and there is no single-use plastic at the property. It does not stop there, as of 2021 Inkaterra has been acknowledged by the United Nations as the World’s First Climate-Positive Hotel Brand
→ Find out moreThe impact of your stay:
- Recognised as the world’s first Climate Positive hotel brand by Green Initiative, endorsed by the United Nations, Inkaterra collaborated with AJE Group, Machu Picchu Town Hall, and the National Park Service to make Machu Picchu the first carbon-neutral international destination. This commitment aims to cut carbon emissions by 45% by 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, aligning with the United Nations Paris Agreement goals.
- Funded by tourism, the hotel actively restores a 4-hectare area damaged by livestock, nurturing native flora and encouraging the return of fauna. Partnering with Cornell University, the hotel monitors bird inventories, recording 294 species, including the Andean cock-of-the-rock, Andean motmot, Golden-headed quetzal, and 18 hummingbird species. Additionally, they’ve identified 372 orchid species, discovering 26 new orchid species previously unknown to science.
- Through their non-profit Inkaterra Association, the hotel conducts practical conservation workshops for school children. These engaging sessions, blending knowledge with fun through games, exhibitions, crafts, and experiments, serve as a crucial tool to raise environmental awareness among children. The aim is to foster their role as environmental ambassadors within their homes.
Machu Picchu
Highlights
- 31 rooms
- Two restaurants & afternoon tea
- Massage
- Privately guided tours of Machu Picchu
Overview
The only accommodation located inside of Machu Picchu, The Sanctuary Lodge offers stunning views from many of the rooms and the hotel is within walking distance of the Incan ruins. The gorgeous garden is a wonderful place to have breakfast or a cocktail in the evening while relishing in the peace of the surroundings. Given the location, space is at an economy so the standard rooms are not overly spacious. However, this is a small price to pay for such a stunning location. All meals are included in the cost.
→ Find out moreMachu Picchu
Overview
An excellent option in the Machu Picchu area, the Sumaq is located outside of the town of Aguas Calientes on a stretch of the Urubamba river.
60 rooms and suites are decorated to a clean modern finish with flourishes and details inspired by the Inca citadel, with views of the river and mountains.
One of the real highlights here is the restaurant, by our reckoning one of the best in the Machu Picchu area.
Aside from visiting the famous citadel above, you can partake in Peruvian cooking classes, witness traditional ceremonies and shamanic rituals, and head out on hikes through the lush valley in search of unique species of flora and fauna.
→ Find out moreYou have the morning free to explore the famous site on your own.
Transfer
Train from Machu Picchu
Trains from Machu Picchu
Luxury train journeys in Peru
Highlights
- Dining and bar car
- Observation car
- Multiple carriages to relax
- Brunch and dinner served
- Relax and be transported
Overview
Named after the first American to discover the Incan hilltop citadel in 1911 and owned by Orient Express, the Hiram Bingham is a world-class luxury train. Travellers on the train are driven to Poroy station just outside Cusco to board the exclusive blue and gold painted carriages and for just over three hours you are resplendently transported to Aguacalientes, the town beneath the ruins.
Aboard, the 1920s Pullman carriages reflect the opulence of the locomotive era bedecked in polished brass, wood panels and rich, comfy seating. There is also a period observation car at the rear.
Brunch on the outward journey and dinner on your return are included. These are taken in the elegant dining car replete with white-linen tablecloths, clinking crystal, and you are looked after by the smartest team of waiters. Whilst feasting on fine Peruvian cuisine the steamy forest scenery unfolds right in front of you and there’s a great bar car that often has live music on the return leg, or you can just simply relax into a snug armchair in one of the carriages.
Escorted to the Lost City of the Incas there is a small-group guided tour included, but for those who would like a more exclusive visit we can easily arrange a private one for you.
→ Find out moreLuxury train journeys in Peru
Highlights
- Sit back and take in the views
- Toilet facilities
- Comfortable leather seats
- Snack service
Overview
The Vistadome train takes you to the magnificent ancient Incan citadel of Machu Picchu in superb modern comfort.
As per its name, the train has wide glass windows built into the roof and sides of the carriages so you really do get to see the rich Peruvian countryside rushing by. Large leather seats, air conditioning, heating, and good service reflects all the contemporary efficiency and standards of Peru Rail too.
If you’re looking immerse in the surroundings this is a unique way to connect with the scenery en-route to Machu Picchu.
Traditional snack food is provided on board made using local ingredients for an experience of the Andean cuisine. On the return trip you can also watch live traditional dance performances, inspired from the ancient cultures of this region.
→ Find out moreTransfer
Private transfer from Ollanta Station to your hotel in Cusco
Cusco
Accommodation in Cusco
Cusco
Highlights
- 55 oxygen-enriched suites with Cusquenian art and furniture
- Cloistered gardens with tranquil fountains and pretty patios
- A restaurant with a menu of signature dishes and Peruvian flavours
Overview
Palacio Nazarenas, a meticulously restored palace and convent, offers a harmonious blend of modern luxury and Cusco’s rich history. This exclusive boutique in Cusco is an urban sanctuary which features just 55 suites, each enriched with oxygen and equipped with a private bar stocked with fresh, locally sourced ingredients for crafting personalised drinks.
The charm of Palacio Nazarenas is revealed in its exquisite details. Once a nunnery, the property showcases floral accents and Cusquenian hand-crafted artistry throughout. The hotel also boasts an outdoor heated pool, nestled amidst cloistered gardens, Incan stone walls, tranquil fountains, and picturesque patios.
Experience the flavors of the Andes at Mauka, the vibrant restaurant led by renowned chef Pía León, celebrated as one of Peru’s brightest culinary talents. Her innovative approach highlights the local biodiversity of Cusco while honoring the cultural heritage of the Peruvian Andes. Mauka’s menu reintegrates ancestral crops, seeds and traditions into gourmet dining, offering a captivating journey through Peru’s historic ecosystems. In a relaxed yet refined setting, savor signature dishes crafted with care, creativity, and irresistible flavours.
The hotel is located within easy distance of city highlights like Plaza de Armas and Sacsayhuamán, and is ideally situated for exploring Cusco.
→ Find out moreCusco
Overview
Cusco’s most famous and prestigious hotel, Monasterio is a beautifully restored monastery in the heart of town just steps away from the main plaza, finest restaurants and best museums. Built around Incan foundations, adorned with antique Spanish design, the hotel is an important historical landmark and is protected by the National Institute of Culture.
The 126 unique rooms offer a great mix of elegance and comfort, ranging from cozy quarters to expansive suite. The hotel also goes the extra mile in terms of guests’ comfort with the provision of some oxygen enriched bedrooms to help acclimatize to the high altitude.
There are two restaurants – Illariy in the cloisters opening out over the leafy courtyard where you’ll find delicious breakfasts and light lunches, and El Tupay which serves fine international cuisine created from local ingredients, often accompanied by opera. The relaxed lobby bar is the place to sip pisco sours after a day exploring.
→ Find out moreCusco
Overview
This luxury boutique hotel is located right in the center of Cusco surrounded by cobblestone streets, museums and next door to Plaza Las Nazarenas. This really is the premier property in Cusco and a real delight to stay at.
La Casona is a beauitfully and carefully restored colonial manor house from the 16th century with modern luxuries. With only eleven suites surrounding a courtyard, the atmosphere is very private and charming.
Each room is furnished with period antiques and has a fireplace and heated floors. Other hotel amenities include a library, restaurant, lounge, spa, butler services and Peruvian cooking classes.
→ Find out moreEnjoy this beautiful city and UNESCO World Heritage site. You'll have our list of recommendations as well as private guides on hand to enjoy the best of this beautiful city. We can arrange a number of private, interest-led tours to booking fine restaurants for you. Your personal travel designer will be able to recommend activities that are most suitable to your interests.
Your local expert guide will collect you from your hotel for a private tour of the city, starting out at the Santo Domingo convent monastery. This former colonial monastery was previously the Koricancha Temple, one of the most important temples devoted to the worship of the sun. According to the chronicles, it was covered in gold leaf and filled with golden representations of nature. Your next stop will be the Plaza de Armas and the Cathedral.
You will be driven by private vehicle to the countryside just outside Cusco to visit some of the remarkable Inca ruins in the area such as the cult centre of Sacsayhuaman, the temple and amphitheatre of Kenko, and the Red Fortress of Puca Pucara.
Transfer
Private transfer to Cusco airport
Flight
Flight from Cusco to Lima
Flight
Flight from Lima to Iguassu
Transfer
Private transfer to your hotel near Iguassu Falls
Iguassu Falls
Accommodation in Iguassu Falls
Iguazu Falls
Overview
The Melia Iguazu is the only hotel within the grounds of the national park on the Argentinean side of the Falls.
It has 169 modern rooms of a good standard – some of which feature views of the falls – which are only a short walk away.
There are a wide range of dining facilities, with the ‘Garganta del Diablo’ restaurant one of the best in the area, as well as swimming pools, spa and a gym.
→ Find out moreIguazu Falls
Highlights
- Expansive villas that open up to the surrounding rainforest
- Private guides and vehicles for unmatched flexibility
- Savour local flavours at the main lodge's restaurant
- Embark on tours to the falls
- Explore Iguazu with archaeological experiences
Overview
On the banks of a serene river, just 15 minutes away from the legendary Iguazu waterfalls, lies Awasi Iguazu, a distinguished member of Relais & Châteaux.
Discover a collection of 13 expansive villas and one master villa, each elevated on stilts and thoughtfully scattered throughout the lush jungle to ensure unparalleled privacy. Each villa features its own plunge pool, outdoor shower and private terrace, whilst the master villa goes a step further, boasting and additional bedroom and bathroom.
The villas are also paired with a private guide and a 4WD vehicle, allowing you to explore the region at your own pace. Collaborating with esteemed biologists, Awasi Iguazu offers a range of curated excursions that extend far beyond the falls. Whether you wish to visit the waterfalls, delve into archaeological wonders, trek through verdant jungles, go bird watching, or embark on a boat ride culminating in a sunset picnic, the choice is yours.
After a day of exploration, unwind at the main lodge’s inviting bar, where you can savour a refreshing drink before indulging in leisurely, sumptuous meals at the restaurant. Here, a farm-to-table philosophy and local flavors take centre stage.
→ Find out moreIguassu Falls
Overview
Actually inside the national park on the Brazilian side, this luxury property is ideally located. Walking out from the lobby one can hear the thunder of the falls and the hotel is surrounded by lush tropical rainforest.
The hotel has been recently refurbished throughout to a high standard and in keeping with the colonial mansion style of the hotel’s original design.
The hotel has large rooms with high ceilings, hard wood flooring and period style furniture. There is a large pool area in the rear to relax at with a drink after a day exploring the falls.
→ Find out moreEnjoy this stunning natural wonder of the world. Most of our clients choose our full day private tour of the Falls with one of our expert guides, however we do offer variations on this to include boat safaris or hikes through the surrounding national park.
Your guide will pick you up from your hotel and bring you by private vehicle to the entrance of the park on the Argentinian side. You'll then be taking the rest of the tour mainly on foot, exploring the various wooden walkways that lead through the national park and close to the many chutes of the falls.
One of the most spectacular sites of the falls is the Devil's Throat' which sees the largest flow of water. In order to visit the Devil’s Throat, you must board a train at the Main Station or at the Cataratas Station, close to the Upper Circuit. For those who love trekking there is the one-kilometre-long Sendero Verde (Green Trail) that connects the Visitors Centre to the Cataratas Station and to the Upper Circuit.
Once you are at Devil’s Throat Station, you will walk for just over a kilometre on a flat catwalk built over the Upper Iguassu River. This catwalk crosses several islands. Once you get to the end of the catwalks, you will be surprised by a strategic lookout point resting on the side.
Head up the river in a specially-prepared boat that brings you to the base of Iguassu Falls where you'll be able to admire and feel them up close. Whirlpools, waves and currents provoked by the Falls make this an unmissable part of any visit to the park.
Your guide will bring you to the starting point where large trucks specially adapted to this tour will take you and other visitors to explore six kilometres of subtropical forest. From here you will board special high-powered Zodiac boats that will take you, at high speed, to enjoy one of the most unforgettable experiences in the region: direct contact with the mighty Falls. After this incredible trip, you will get off the boat at the base of the Falls, onto a catwalk that connects to the lower visitation circuit of the Falls.
Transfer
Private transfer to Iguassu airport
Flight
Flight from Iguassu to Rio de Janeiro
Transfer
Private transfer to your hotel in Rio de Janeiro
Rio de Janeiro
Accommodation in Rio de Janeiro
Rio de Janeiro
Overview
An iconic hotel for an iconic city, the Copacabana Palace is synonymous with Rio de Janeiro and is very much a destination in itself.
The rooms, facilities and service here are truly first class and you will feel very special lounging in the beautiful pool area, which is one of the most elegant in all the city.
The hotel is a short distance from the more fashionable districts (Copacabana no longer being the top of the pile) and you may find yourself making a short taxi ride to the best restaurants, bars and beaches.
Service at the Copacabana Palace is the best in the city.
→ Find out moreRio de Janeiro
Overview
The Fasano Rio is the most stylish hotel in Rio. Set on Ipanema beach front and designed by Phillipe Starck, this is a stunning property. The Fasano brings an air of understated cool and luxury that has been somewhat lacking in some of the other beach-front hotels in Rio.
The rooms are immaculately decorated with a combination of period pieces, original artwork and chic-modern style. We recommend the Deluxe sea view category or above. Each has a private balcony with views out to sea and king size beds with Egyptian cotton sheets and goose down pillows. For that extra touch of luxury and pampering, there is also butler service.
The facilities include an excellent bar, perhaps the city’s best seafood restaurant and a stunning rooftop infinity pool.
→ Find out moreRio de Janeiro
Overview
Emiliano Rio enjoys one of the city’s most coveted locations, right on Copacabana Beach. It is contemporary and cool, and embodies everything that is so wonderful about this South American city.
There are 90 suites and apartments, many of which have balconies and beautiful ocean views. Decor is simple and elegant, the light bright colour scheme perfect for enhancing the blue skies and golden sands that surround the hotel.
Emile Restaurant specialises in carioca cuisine, using local, small scale producers to showcase the best of the city. Sip a cocktail at the Emile Bar then head up to the rooftop for light, healthy bites and a dip in the beautiful swimming pool that looks out over Copacabana.
There is an incredible spa located on the 11th floor offering a range of revitalising treatments as well as space to simply uwind and relax.
→ Find out moreRio de Janeiro
Overview
More of a boutique home than a traditional hotel, Vila Santa Teresa is beautiful property on the secluded private estate of the Monteiro de Carvalho family with incredible views over Rio’s Sugarloaf Mountain, cityscape and glistening Guanabara Bay below.
The mansion is a 1970s modernist house sat surrounded by peaceful gardens that are enveloped by the Atlantic Forest.
There are seven unique en suite bedrooms with garden or city views. Each is airy, spacious and decorated with a laid back Brazilian take on clean modernism with carefully chosen antiques and art pieces.
Downstairs there are open plan living rooms, a dining room, library, cellar bar and basement lounge, with a kitchen serving up breakfast and a lunch and dinner menu of of Carioca classics. Outside, the swimming pool and terrace make the most of the priceless views and there is also a tennis court.
→ Find out moreSpending your days in the heady 'Marvellous City' you can explore and enjoy Rio at your leisure. You'll have a full set of recommendations and advice from us on how to really make the most of the city.
Christ the Redeemer statue is Rio’s most famous attraction with his arms stretched out, he looks to be blessing the entire city. At 710 metres above the centre on the Corcovado Hill, the statue is surrounded by wide, open terraces from where you get unbeatable vistas of the city's impressive littoral, the southern neighbourhoods of Copacabana and Ipanema, the Lagoon, the Sugar Loaf and the town of Niterói.
The faded grandeur of this part of the city, often referred to as the Montmartre of Rio, set into the hills close to the centre of town, still retains a rich cultural atmosphere of art, music and history. Mansions line the narrow streets struggling with the encroaching vegetation and incline, and is still home to many painters cafes and artists studios. You can stop for a drink or lunch at one of the many charming restaurants, bistros and cafes that populate Santa Teresa’s lively streets. Your guide will also take you to the Ruins Park, a cultural centre in the remains of a 19th century house which has a Belvedere that commands some of the best views over Rio.
Your guide will escort you through the narrow 19th century streets at your required pace, stopping at the magnificent Baroque churches and the ruins of the old port from where most of Brazil’s gold left for its long journey to Europe. You will also see many other culturally interesting and historical attractions that illustrate the city’s rich and varied heritage.
This massive granite rock, 396 metres tall, is one of the city’s most emblematic landmarks, adorning many a postcard. You will take the cable car with your guide from the Guanabara Bay entrance in the Urca district. At the zenith the view of Rio and its neighbourhoods sprawled over bays, coves, and appearing from dense green hillsides is unrivalled and quite spectacular.
Transfer
Private transfer to Rio's international airport
We design private journeys for people who wish to go beyond the typical and experiencing something truly special. Our amazing team of travel designers, concierges and local guides work together to create unique journeys that get deep under the skin of where you’re visiting.