Brazil Icons: São Paulo to Rio

Look out from Christ the Redeemer, marvel at the crystal water on Ilha Grande & take a volleyball class on Ipanema Beach

What's Included

Accommodation in twin rooms
Max 14 travelers per group
Exclusively for people in their 30s & 40s
All activities mentioned on the itinerary
7 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners
Hand-picked 3-4 star hotels
Arrival airport transfer
Experienced Pack Leader with you throughout the trip

Flashpackers are required to produce proof of COVID-19 vaccination 30 days before departure OR proof of a negative test within 72 hours of their adventure starting. Flashpackers must also provide evidence that they have purchased travel insurance for the duration of their adventure. Remember, international flights aren't included and prices are based on sharing a twin room. If you'd like to upgrade to a single room, you can add this during the booking process or by contacting our Customer Experience team.

About your trip

Was there ever a more iconic pairing than São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro? We’ll wait…

Over eight days in two of the world’s most vibrant cities, you’ll tuck into chargrilled street food, marvel at kaleidoscopic graffiti art, and dance at a rhythmic samba club. You’ll even get to embrace the carioca way of life with a private beach volleyball lesson on Ipanema beach, coached by none other than local legend Pelé da Praia. And don’t worry, must-see sights – like Christ the Redeemer statue – are also on the agenda.

Beyond the city streets lies some of the most spectacular natural beauty in South America, so we’ll be heading there too. With the European-style town of Paraty as your base, you’ll hike through ancient rainforest, swim in secluded waterfalls and relax on a paradise island. Add to this your daily dose of ice-cold caipirinhas sipped with new friends and you’ll feel like a certified Brazilian.

Our Favorite Hotels

Here's a taste of the hotels we sometimes use on this adventure. The hotels you'll stay in for your departure will be shared with you one month before you go.

INNSiDE São Paulo Itaim

Expect slick, stylish rooms inside this contemporary hotel at the heart of Itaim Bibi financial district. Downstairs, the Bites Box restaurant serves up Brazilian dishes, like smokey feijoada (black bean and meat stew). Fitness fans will love the 24/7 gym, complete with an outdoor crossfit terrace.

Pousada do Ouro, Paraty

Behind the whitewashed walls and sunflower yellow windows, you’ll find a welcoming guesthouse, just eight minutes walk from Paraty’s beaches. Exposed wooden beams hint at its 18th century heritage. Cool off with a quick dip in the palm-flanked outdoor pool.

Arena Ipanema Hotel, Rio

You almost can’t get closer to the world-famous Ipanema Beach at this glistening, glass-fronted hotel. Inside, rooms come with pillow-top beds as standard. For the best Atlantic views, head to the rooftop pool; watch the sky turn blush pink with a frosty beer in hand.

Important Notes

Which airport should I fly in and out of? Plus airport code

Fly into São Paulo (GRU) and out of Rio de Janeiro Airport (GIG).

What time should my flight arrive (in time for the welcome meeting)?

The plan is to meet at around 5 pm on Day 1 of the adventure, so please book a flight that arrives before 3 pm if you can.

Are airport transfers included?

If you arrive on Day 1 of your adventure, or you book pre-tour accommodation with us, your airport arrival transfer will be included. If you book alternative pre-tour accommodation or are arriving by another mode of transport you must arrange your own arrival transfer.

Arrival transfers are private to Flash Pack and will be in groups depending on flight times. Sometimes this means waiting in the airport for a short while until other flights have arrived.

We don’t offer a departure transfer as Flashpackers leave at different times of the day and many stay for extra nights. However, your Pack Leader will offer you support with finding a local taxi.

Are tips included?

Tips are not included in this adventure. Your Pack Leader can advise on suitable amounts to tip local activity guides or services where appropriate, and we will provide a suggested tipping budget closer to your departure date. Please note that all tipping is optional and will depend on what you feel comfortable with.

How much should I budget per day for extras?

Approx USD 50 per day for extra meals and drinks.

Will the itinerary change?

Please be aware that the itinerary, activities and hotels are subject to change. These changes can happen with little notice due to availability, poor weather, seasonal changes, or other circumstances beyond our control. From time to time we may also make changes to your itinerary to try out new ideas and keep things fresh.

What are the Covid-19 requirements for visiting Brazil?

Due to the changeable nature of Covid-19 entry requirements, we strongly advise Flashpackers to consult the travel advice issued by your local consular services well in advance of your departure date. Some countries do still require travelers to comply with pre-arrival testing and/or vaccination requirements. Links to the key consular services can be found on our Safety page.

What other vaccinations and medication will I need?

We recommend checking with your local travel clinic six to eight weeks before your trip to see if any medications or vaccinations are required.

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