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A Dive into Brazil’s Culture and History

Minas Gerais is a state steeped in history. Its historic cities, preserved over centuries, are true treasures of colonial Brazil, where the richness of the past meets the charm of the present. For those looking to take a journey back in time, the historic cities of Minas Gerais are an unmissable destination.

Ouro Preto: The Jewel of Brazilian Baroque

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ouro Preto is the ultimate symbol of the opulence of the Gold Rush. Its cobblestone streets, baroque churches, and museums hold stories of a colonial Brazil filled with struggles and achievements. The Church of São Francisco de Assis, with its architecture and works by Aleijadinho, is a highlight of any visit. 

Tiradentes: Charm and Tradition

Small and cozy, Tiradentes enchants with its colonial charm and countryside atmosphere. The cobblestone streets, colorful houses, and irresistible local cuisine make this city a perfect destination for those seeking tranquility and culture. Largo das Forras and the Matriz Church of Santo Antônio are must-see spots, along with horse-drawn carriage rides and visits to local craft studios.

Image Credit: Douglas Mendes

São João del-Rei: Where History Meets the Present

São João del-Rei is a city where the old and the modern coexist harmoniously. Founded in 1704, the city preserves its rich historical and cultural heritage, highlighted by its baroque churches and colonial mansions. The Church of São Francisco de Assis, designed by Aleijadinho, is one of the most beautiful in the state. 

Image Credit: Halley Pacheco de Oliveira – Wikimedia Commons
Image Credit: Thais Andressa – Wikimedia Commons

Mariana: The First Capital of Minas Gerais

Mariana, the first city and capital of the state, is a place where history is present on every corner. Its colonial buildings, such as the Cathedral of the Sé and the Casa de Câmara e Cadeia, reflect the historical importance of the city. Mariana is also known for its gold mines, which can be explored through guided tours, offering a fascinating insight into colonial-era mining.

Image Credit: Gustavo Nacht
Image Credit: Raphael Gustavo Marques da Costa – Wikimedia Commons

Congonhas: The Legacy of Aleijadinho

Congonhas is famous for housing one of Aleijadinho’s greatest works: the Twelve Prophets, sculpted in soapstone, which adorn the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus de Matosinhos. The city, an important pilgrimage destination, is an impressive example of baroque sacred art and the religious devotion that marked colonial Brazil.

Image Credit: Halleypo – Wikimedia Commons

Visiting the historic cities of Minas Gerais is more than just a tourist trip; it is an immersion in Brazil’s culture and history. Each city, with its unique personality, offers an unforgettable experience, rich in learning and beauty. Get ready to be enchanted by the legacy of Minas Gerais, where every street, church, and square tells a fundamental part of Brazilian history.

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Discover the Wonders of Rio’s Beaches

Rio de Janeiro, affectionately known as the Marvelous City, is world famous for its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture and, above all, its iconic beaches. With an extensive coastline bathed by the Atlantic, Rio’s beaches offer a unique diversity of settings, from lively urban coves to quieter natural hideaways.

Rio’s beaches are real postcards, each with its own personality and charm. Copacabana, with its wave-lined promenade and lively atmosphere, is one of the most famous destinations in the world. Ipanema, eternalized by the famous song “Garota de Ipanema”, attracts visitors with its scenic beauty and relaxed vibe. Leblon, on the other hand, known for its sophistication, offers a more reserved and family-friendly atmosphere.

Copacabana Beach
Ipanema Beach

For lovers of water sports and adventure, the long Barra da Tijuca beach is a paradise with its clear waters and ideal conditions for surfing, kitesurfing and other sports. And for those seeking closer contact with nature, Prainha and Grumari, with their unspoiled landscapes and crystal-clear waters, are true ecological sanctuaries.

Barra da Tijuca Beach
Prainha Beach
Grumari Beach

Each beach in Rio de Janeiro tells a story, reflecting the diversity and cultural richness of the city. Whether you want to relax in the sun, play sports, enjoy a stunning sunset or simply be enchanted by the scenery, Rio’s beaches are unmissable destinations that offer unforgettable experiences for all visitors.

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Find out what to do in Rio de Janeiro in Winter

Rio de Janeiro, famous for its sunny beaches, has a lot to offer even during the winter months. Check out our tips on activities and attractions to make the most of the Marvelous City.

1. Stroll through the Botanical Garden

Rio de Janeiro’s Botanical Garden is an excellent option for a peaceful stroll. With a vast collection of native and exotic plants, lakes, fountains and greenhouses, the garden is a true oasis of peace in the middle of the city.

2. Visit the Museum of Tomorrow

Located in the revitalized Porto Maravilha region, the Museum of Tomorrow is an unmissable attraction. With its futuristic architecture and interactive exhibitions, the museum explores themes such as sustainability, technology and innovation, providing an educational and inspiring experience.

3. Tour of the Historic Center

Without the intense heat of summer, winter is a great time to explore the city’s historic center. Walking through the old streets, visiting the Confeitaria Colombo, seeing the churches and exploring the Real Gabinete Português de Leitura are some of the memorable attractions that reveal a piece of Rio’s history.

4. Sugarloaf Mountain

Although Rio’s winter is mild, the days are cooler and often with clear skies, perfect for enjoying the view of Sugarloaf Mountain. Taking the cable car and enjoying one of Rio’s most iconic landscapes, with breathtaking views of Guanabara Bay, Christ the Redeemer and the beaches of the South Zone, is a unique experience.

5. Corcovado

Visiting Corcovado, one of the most iconic tourist attractions in Rio de Janeiro, is a must-see attraction in any season of the year. Famous for housing the monumental statue of Christ the Redeemer, one of Brazil’s most recognized symbols, Corcovado offers stunning views of the city, including Guanabara Bay, Sugarloaf Mountain and the beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema. An unmissable opportunity for anyone who wants to explore the natural beauty of Rio de Janeiro.

6. Night at the Municipal Theater

An evening at Rio de Janeiro’s Municipal Theater is a cultural activity not to be missed. With a diverse program that includes operas, ballets and concerts, the theater offers high-quality shows in majestic surroundings. Taking a guided tour to learn more about the theater’s history and architecture is a great option.

7. Explore Santa Teresa

The charming neighborhood of Santa Teresa is ideal for a cultural stroll. With its winding streets, old houses and artists’ studios, the neighborhood offers a bohemian and welcoming atmosphere. Visiting the Ruins Park, the Chácara do Céu Museum and ending the day in one of the local bars or restaurants, enjoying the view of the sunset, should be part of the itinerary.

8. Beach day

Although winter isn’t the warmest season, sunny days still allow you to enjoy Rio’s beaches. The beaches are less crowded, offering a quieter environment in which to relax.

Contact us to enjoy the best of Rio’s winter! 

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A Breathtaking Beauty

A UNESCO Natural Heritage Site since 2001, due to its rich biodiversity and ecological importance, the Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park has breathtaking beauty.

Located in the Central Highlands of Brazil, just 230km from Brasília, the park is known for its spectacular waterfalls and unique geological formations, with landscapes shaped by quartz crystals, canyons and plateaus.

There are many trails that run through Chapada, with the Trilha dos Cânions e Cariocas being one of the main attractions. Passing through various types of vegetation in the Cerrado biome, the route with stunning scenery gives access to the Cânion II well and Cachoeira dos Cariocas, excellent for a refreshing swim after the walk.

Another interesting route is the Trilha dos Saltos, Carrossel and Corredeiras, where visitors pass through areas of old quartz crystal mining, reaching the viewpoint of Salto do Rio Preto, a waterfall with 100m of free fall, in addition to Cachoeira do Garimpão, with an 80 meter drop and a delicious river bath. Along the way, a complex of waterfalls, canyons and natural pools delight walkers.

Visiting the National Park at night is also a unique experience, making it possible to observe the constellations and planets, as well as the fauna belonging to the region.

Outside the park, an unmissable attraction is the Vale da Lua, a sequence of rapids with stones cut by the waters of the São Miguel River, forming a true visual spectacle.

Contact us and provide your customers with a deep connection with nature in this magical destination.

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One of the Most Fascinating Destinations on the Planet

One of the most fascinating and ecologically important destinations on the planet, the Amazon is an unforgettable journey.

Hiking through the dense vegetation, canoeing along the streams, piranha fishing, bird watching, nights under completely starry skies, visits to indigenous villages, swimming with pink dolphins, expeditions to the “meeting of the waters” and the chance to meet wild animals in their natural habitat are all unique experiences in the world’s largest tropical rainforest.

And to truly experience the magic of the region, lodging in regional jungle lodges provides an immersive and sustainable experience. 

Strategically located, often on the banks of rivers, they give direct access to the stunning biodiversity and soundtracks of the jungle, as well as contributing to the ecosystem and well-being of local communities.

Another exciting way to discover the beauty and diversity of the Amazon are cruises. 

Aboard comfortable vessels, travelers can observe an impressive variety of wildlife while enjoying breathtaking scenery. In addition to navigating the winding rivers, cruises also offer land and water excursions with specialized guides.

Contact us to create an exclusive itinerary to this stunning destination in the Amazon. 

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A breathtaking destination for nature lovers

The Pantanal – the world’s largest floodplain – is more than a tourist destination, it is a unique ecosystem that is home to an incredible wealth of wildlife and stunning landscapes.

Located in the heart of South America, covering part of the states of Mato Grosso and Mato Grosso do Sul in Brazil and extending into Bolivia and Paraguay, it has an area of approximately 195,000 square kilometers.

Governed by the water cycle, with two well-defined seasons – the dry season (April to October) and the rainy season (November to March), it is Brazil’s most preserved biome and is recognized by Unesco as a World Natural Heritage Site and Biosphere Reserve.

One of the best ways to explore the region is with specialized guides through safaris aboard 4×4 vehicles or on boat trips along the rivers and canals, where tourists can record unique moments of animals in their natural habitat.

One of the Pantanal’s main attractions is the magnificent jaguar, the largest land predator in the Americas. Watching this majestic feline, known for its beauty and strength, is a truly thrilling experience. As is the sight of alligators sunbathing or gliding silently through the calm waters in search of prey.

And, of course, we can’t forget the hyacinth macaws flying through the sky in colorful flocks, with their vibrant and eye-catching plumage, symbols of the exuberance of the Pantanal’s fauna.

In addition to the wildlife, the Pantanal offers a rich culture and warm hospitality. The famous Pantanal ranches offer visitors an authentic experience of life in the countryside, with activities such as horseback riding, fishing, hiking and Pantanal cuisine.

For the more adventurous, hiking through the forest, canoeing on the winding rivers, and spending the night admiring nocturnal animals and the starry sky with thousands of stars dotting the horizon are unforgettable moments.  In addition, the Pantanal is one of the best places in the world for birdwatching, making it one of the most exciting experiences in the region.

For nature lovers, the Pantanal is the perfect destination, offering a visual and sensory spectacle at every turn.

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Rota das Falésias

Exploring the Rota das Falésias is a unique experience, full of spectacular landscapes, lush beaches and a rich cultural heritage.

The route, which starts in Fortaleza – a lively city with a rich culture and beautiful beaches – can be done in a variety of ways, such as 4×4 vehicles or buggies. Next, the Historic Center and Beach Park are obligatory stops in Aquiraz, while trying rapadura – a typically northeastern sweet – is essential in Pindoretama.

Porto das Dunas beach at Aquiraz

Just 67km from the capital, Cascavel enchants everyone with Caponga Beach and Águas Belas, where the meeting of the river and the sea forms a truly paradisiacal landscape.

In Beberibe, the Labirinto do Morro Branco – a labyrinth formed by the erosion of the cliffs, as well as Praia das Fontes, the caves and natural pools, are witnesses to the beauty of this place.

“Morro Branco” Beach, Beberibe
“Morro Branco” Beach, Beberibe

The famous Canoa Quebrada beach in Aracati, known for its colorful cliffs and exciting leisure options, is the highlight of the route. In Icapuí, its beautiful, quiet beaches are great for relaxing.

Canoa Quebrada
Symbol of Canoa Quebrada

In Tibau, beaches surrounded by colorful cliffs enchant tourists, while in Grossos visitors have the opportunity to visit archaeological sites, rivers, salt pans, dunes, beautiful beaches and the work of the famous lace makers.

Following the itinerary, Areia Branca, known as the Land of Salt, offers paradisiacal beaches, while Mossoró, where the journey ends, is renowned for its thermal waters.

Please contact us so that we can tailor the itinerary to each client’s preferences and time available, providing a trip that will be remembered forever!

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Rio’s Most Glamorous Party for Carnival 2024

On February 10th, the radiant atmosphere of Rio de Janeiro’s carnival will be present in the dazzling halls of the city’s most iconic hotel, the Copacabana Palace, the Belmond Hotel.

The theme chosen for the 2024 Copacabana Palace Ball will be Extravangarde, an invitation to extravagance and the avant-garde, inspired by the main avant-garde artistic movements: Dadaism, Surrealism, Expressionism and Cubism.

Dadaism will be presented in different places of the hotel, revealing irreverence and lack of logic, while Expressionism will be highlighted in the renowned Golden Room lounge, with reference to Van Gogh in a totally immersive experience, with yellow and gold sunflowers.

The Surrealist Movement will take over the stunning halls, transporting all guests to a world of dreams and imagination, inspired by the works of René Magritte, and Cubism will be present through geometric and abstract shapes inspired by Picasso on the dance floor and in the external area of ​​the hotel.

The buffet is also worth highlighting, with the best of international and local cuisine, prepared by renowned Italian chef Nello Cassese, as well as the dress code, with black tie attire or luxury costumes, which invites everyone to be inspired by the ‘avant-garde extravagance ‘, praising the eccentric.

Certainly, a unique experience that will be marked in everyone’s history and memories.

Date: February 10, 2024

Opening hours: 10pm to 5am

Age rating: 18 years old

Dress code: Luxury costume or Black-tie

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Carnival in Rio de Janeiro 

Carnival in Rio de Janeiro is synonymous with joy and diversity. Several street blocks liven up the city center, passing by its historic buildings such as Palácio Tiradentes, the Metropolitan Cathedral, Cinelândia and the Municipal Theater.

Thousands of costumed revelers, coming from all over the world, have fun following the groups, the most popular being Orquestra Voadora, Cordão da Bola Preta, Bloco da Preta and Monobloco.

Orquestra Voadora enchants with its eclectic mix of musicians, including wind, percussion and other instruments, creating a vibrant and immersive sound; the Cordão da Bola Preta represents an important part of carnival culture, preserving the famous carnival marches; Bloco da Preta, led by singer Preta Gil, is known for its energetic performances, while Monobloco is contagious with its fusion of rhythms such as funk and samba.

Another neighborhood that attracts attention during the festive period is Santa Teresa, where several lively groups parade, the most popular being Bloco Carmelitas and Céu na Terra.

The Bloco Carmelitas is known for its irreverence, revelry and an urban legend that involves Carmelite nuns running away from a convent during Carnival to join the party; Céu na Terra is recognized for its mix of rhythms, with Afro-Brazilian cultural influences.

Whether in the center of Rio de Janeiro among historic buildings or going up and down the slopes of Santa Teresa, carnival in the wonderful city provides a contagious energy.Contact us to arrange a trip that will forever be remembered by your customers.

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The Greatest Show on Earth

Known as the Greatest Show on Earth, Rio de Janeiro Carnival is one of the most famous in the world, with its explosion of colors, rhythm and joy.

The majestic parades of the Samba Schools in Marquês de Sapucaí, where thousands of people, dancers and musicians perform with huge floats, dazzling costumes and impressive choreography, provide a unique experience.

In addition to the Samba Schools, numerous Street Blocks spread throughout the city attracting crowds of revelers who dance and sing, creating an atmosphere of contagious celebration in several postcards of Rio, such as the beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema.

Many dances also take place during this period, with the legendary Ball at the Copacabana Palace Hotel being the most iconic of all, where glamor and sophistication meet in luxury costumes and black tie.

Contact us and don’t miss the chance to be part of the Marvelous City Carnival! Book now and guarantee your customers an unforgettable party.

*In 2024, Carnival will take place on the 10th, 11th, 12th and 13th of February.