Eat, Play, Learn

Start your day by heading to Sugarloaf Mountain with your private guide, one of Rio’s most celebrated landmark. Fast-track your way to the top, where panoramic views of Rio, its golden beaches, and the Atlantic Ocean stretch before you. Afterward, prepare for an exhilarating helicopter ride around the Christ the Redeemer statue: standing tall above the lush Tijuca Forest, take in awe-inspiring views of one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. The rest of your day is yours to enjoy Rio at leisure, or relax back at the hotel. Overnight: Copacabana Palace

This morning, immerse yourself in Rio’s festive spirit with behind-the-scenes access at a samba school. Discover the art and passion that goes into creating the costumes, floats, and choreography that make Carnival such a spectacle. Later, take a guided walk through historic downtown Rio, where colonial architecture meets the vibrancy of modern-day Brazil. End the day with an exploration of cultural treasures, from the Confeitaria Colombo to the Teatro Municipal. Overnight: Copacabana Palace

Set sail on a private yacht for a morning cruise along Guanabara Bay. Take in the views of Rio’s skyline, the now familiar Sugarloaf Mountain, and islands in the distance. Enjoy lunch in the stylish Ipanema neighborhood, known for its vibrant beach culture and high-end dining. In the afternoon, visit the Vidigal favela and get to know the Batucavidi Project, a local initiative that teaches samba to the youth. Learn the basics of this traditional Afro-Brazilian rhythm as you connect with the community. Overnight: Copacabana Palace

Depart Rio in the morning for Paraty by private transfer, or upgrade to a helicopter if that's more your style. Take in your first views of the colonial-era architecture in this town, nestled between the mountains and the sea. Upon arrival, check into the charming Pousada Literaria, a boutique hotel in the heart of Paraty’s historic center. After settling in, take a guided walk around the Portuguese-colonial district. Stroll through cobblestone streets, past 18th-century churches, and whitewashed buildings adorned with colorful doors. Wrap up the day with a visit to a local distillery for a cachaça tasting, and learn about the sugarcane-spirit that has been a part of Brazilian culture for centuries. Overnight: Pousada Literaria

Venture into the lush rainforest surrounding Fazenda Bananal, a sustainable farm and conservation project near Paraty. Take part in a foraging experience, guided by a local expert who will introduce you to the edible treasures hidden within Brazil’s rainforests. Gather wild fruits, nuts, and herbs while learning about their role in local culinary traditions. Get hands-on at a cooking demonstration using the ingredients you’ve collected, before relaxing for the evening in the tranquil surroundings of your hotel. Overnight: Pousada Literaria

Embark on a private beach-hopping adventure aboard a traditional wooden sailboat. Cruise along Paraty’s stunning coastline, stopping at secluded beaches accessible only by boat. Relax on the soft sands, swim in crystal-clear waters, and enjoy a gourmet picnic lunch on board, to a backdrop of emerald sea and lush hillsides. Return to Paraty in the late afternoon, with the evening at leisure. Overnight: Pousada Literaria

After a scenic drive (or take a helicopter transfer) from Paraty to São Paulo, check into the Rosewood São Paulo, an architectural marvel right in the heart of the city. In the evening, savor one of São Paulo’s finest culinary experiences with dinner at DOM, the 2-star Michelin restaurant led by chef Alex Atala. This gastronomic journey is an exploration of Brazilian ingredients, where the flavors of the Amazon are transformed into elevated dishes. Expect a dining experience that will tantalize your palate and introduce you to Brazil’s rich biodiversity through food. Overnight: Rosewood São Paulo

Dive into São Paulo’s rich art and architectural heritage with a private guide. Study some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, including the Pinacoteca do Estado, one of Brazil’s most important art museums, and the contemporary masterpieces along Avenida Paulista. Admire the architectural genius of Oscar Niemeyer and the fusion of colonial and modern influences throughout the city, perhaps with a visit the open-air street art of Beco do Batman. The afternoon is at your leisure to explore São Paulo’s vibrant neighborhoods or relax at the hotel. Overnight: Rosewood São Paulo

Enjoy a private transfer to the airport for your flight to the city of Salvador, the heart of Bahia state. Upon arrival, a private driver will take you to Fasano Salvador, a luxurious boutique hotel with sweeping ocean views. After settling in, dive into Salvador’s rich cultural history with a guided walk around Pelourinho, the UNESCO-listed historic district known for its brightly colored colonial architecture and vibrant Afro-Brazilian culture. Stroll through cobblestone streets, visit the famous São Francisco Church, and learn about the city’s role as the center of Brazil’s African heritage. In the evening, relax with a delicious Bahian dinner at a local restaurant before retiring to your room at Fasano. Overnight: Fasano Salvador

Visit the home studio of Giba for a hands-on percussion workshop, where you can enjoy an energizing jam session using Brazilian beat instruments, such as the atabaque, surdo, and berimbau. In the afternoon, embark on a culinary journey through Bahia’s rich food culture. Start at the bustling São Joaquim Market, where you’ll pick up fresh ingredients for the Chef’s Table. Learn how to prepare moqueca, a traditional Bahian seafood stew rich in coconut milk, palm oil, and spices; a fusion of African, Portuguese, and Indigenous flavors that define Bahian cuisine. For your final evening in Salvador, enjoy a performance by the Bahia Folkloric Ballet at Miguel Santana Theatre. The dance troupe showcases traditional Afro-Brazilian dance, drumming, and folklore in a dynamic show that encapsulates the energy and soul of Bahia. Overnight: Fasano Salvador

It's time to say farewell. Take a private transfer to the airport for your onward journey, leaving you with some wonderful memories of Brazil’s rich culture, from Rio’s vibrant streets to Salvador’s heartfelt traditions.