Rio is an extraordinary city which has long been one of our favourite cities. It is a place full of energy and the city's incomparable setting of beaches, ocean and mountains, watched over by the iconic Statue of Christ atop Corcovado Mountain, is unforgettable. Copacabana and Ipanema are probably the most famous beaches in South America and the views from the cable car up to Sugarloaf Mountain are incredible. There are some great restaurants, excellent clubs and plenty of places to explore, including the dense Atlantic rainforest of Tijuca, the botanical gardens and the bohemian neighbourhood of Santa Teresa.
Smaller beach resorts
Along the coast both north and south of the city lie smaller beach resorts to relax in when you tire of the hustle and bustle of city life with Ilha Grande and Paraty to the south and Buzios to the north.
The Rio Carnival
Of course there is also the Rio Carnival, the most famous carnival of all. It takes place every February just before Ash Wednesday. The Brazilians celebrate with drums, singing and dancing in the street in an explosion of colour, music and lavish and outrageous costumes. We can arrange tickets to the Sambadrome where the best Samba schools parade, the highlight of any carnival experience.
Sarah Frankish
Travel Specialist
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Passionate travel experts
- We've been leading wildlife travel since our first South Africa tours over 25 years ago
- Our Travel Specialists have lived in their specialist area for years
- We work with local guides to immerse you deeper in our diverse range of experiences
Personal & tailor-made
- You'll speak to your own expert who'll share their first-hand knowledge
- We'll make your itinerary seamless with 24/7 emergency contact available
- Your Travel Specialist will listen to ensure you have the best chance of seeing the wildlife you love
Responsible by nature
- We take care to actively contribute to the conservation of environments we visit
- For select countries, we make a charitable donation on your behalf when you make your booking
- We've partnered with conservation experts and NGOs to curate responsible tours
For the latest travel advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office check www.gov.uk/travelaware
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