Family Adventures in Brazil: Rio, Foz do Iguaçu, Amazon Expedition & Salvador - 14 Days

Highlights

• Visit Rio's iconic Christ the Redeemer statue and see endless city views
• Discover the mighty waters of Iguaçu Falls on a splashy boat tour
• Hike through the jungles of the Amazon and fish for tasty piranha
• Say hello to crocodiles, panthers, and monkeys at Salvador Zoo & Botanical Park

Brief Itinerary

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Rio de Janeiro, Family Foodie Fun

Welcome to Brazil! Your flight lands in Rio de Janeiro, otherwise known as "Cidade Maravilhosa" (Marvelous City), a bustling metropolis with gorgeous beaches, festive culture, and lively entertainment. Your driver will collect you and your family from the airport and transfer you to your hotel. On the drive into the city, you'll catch views of Mount Corcovado's Christ the Redeemer statue and Sugarloaf Mountain, where cable cars transport visitors up its towering peak. 

After hotel check-in, start your family's trip with an immersion into Brazil's mouthwatering food culture. Meet your guide and head out to Rio's lively streets, stopping at local markets, restaurants, and street food vendors. Snack your way through the city as your guide shares information about the history of different neighborhoods and the traditions behind the food you try.

Sample traditional foods such as tapioca crepes, cheese bread, mandioca frito (cassava chips), or coxinha (chicken croquettes). The kids will no doubt love testing desserts such as brigadeiro (chocolates made from condensed milk), and amanteigado (butter cookies). The adults will also be able to try drinks such as the caipirinha, the country's national drink made with lime, and cachaça (fermented sugar cane). Afterward, return to your hotel or explore under your own steam. 

Day 2: Visit Christ the Redeemer & Sugarloaf Mountain, Maracanã Stadium Tour

Today's guided tour covers some of Rio's most celebrated landmarks. First, your family will head to the top of Mount Corcovado and visit Christ the Redeemer, a 98-foot (30 m) Art Deco statue of Jesus Christ overlooking the city. Commissioned by a local Catholic group in 1920, it was built to symbolize the welcoming spirit of Brazil. The statue took almost 10 years to complete, and it remains an iconic symbol of Brazil and Rio. Arrive at the top of the 2,310-foot (704 m) mountain and the base of the statue, taking in the panoramic city views and beaches of Guanabara Bay.

After descending Mount Corcovado, head to the Urca neighborhood. Here, you'll take a cable car up to Pão de Açúcar (Sugarloaf Mountain). This nearly 1,300-foot (396 m) mountain peak unsurprisingly gets its name because it resembles a mound of sugar. The kids will love the bird's-eye view as the car ascends, and at the top, you'll get a 360-degree view of the rainforest, beaches, cityscape, and local monuments.

Later this afternoon, cater to the soccer fans in your group with a tour of Maracanã stadium. Your local guide will take you through the stadium's historic halls, allowing you to explore its impressive architecture and the locker rooms—the kids can even walk onto the pitch itself! Learn all about the history of Brazilian futball, soaking in the echoes of historic matches and the vibrant energy of passionate fans as you marvel at the grandeur of an arena that has hosted World Cup finals and is a huge part of soccer history. After the tour, enjoy some downtime at your hotel. 

Day 3: Discover AquaRio Aquarium

Discover Brazil's astonishing underwater world this morning with a visit to AquaRio, Rio de Janeiro's Marine Aquarium. Encompassing nearly 280,000 square feet (26,000 sq m), the aquarium is considered one of the largest in South America. With a vast collection of marine life, it ticks all the boxes for a fun, educational experience. 

Let the kids dive into the interactive displays and carefully curated activities, including multiple tanks and enclosures, a sea tunnel, and more than 350 species on display. Visit the main tank, Tancão, to see the larger fish or the touch tank, which allows the little ones to interact with various species. You'll all learn more about the diversity of Brazil's underwater world and gain valuable insights into marine ecosystems and the ongoing conservation efforts, both within the country and worldwide. 

Day 4: Family Rainforest Hike in Floresta da Tijuca, Family Beach Time

Start your morning with a family-friendly hike through Floresta da Tijuca, Rio's urban rainforest. This immersive experience takes you deep into the forest, where you can discover the area's diverse flora and fauna. For added fun, consider incorporating a nature scavenger hunt to make the hike engaging and exciting for the whole family. Curious kids will be fascinated by tales of the rainforest's important ecosystems and their significance as you meander the lush trails and spot native wildlife. 

The rest of the day is all your own. You can slow down the pace with a visit to Jardim Botânico, a botanical garden that serves as a serene oasis within the bustling city. The kids can see the various gardens and stroll the shaded paths, while the whole family can learn more about the garden's diverse collections with a guided educational tour.

If the kids are clamoring for beach time, check out the world-famous Copacabana or Ipanema beaches. Copacabana, which stretches for 2.5 miles (4 km) along the southern coast, is a lively spot with plenty of amenities and a host of restaurants and bars. Ipanema, which is usually less crowded than Copa, is also popular. The waters here can be rough, so parents should be aware and not let children swim unattended. Families with very young children might also want to check out Leme Beach, which sits adjacent to Copabana and offers a quiet alternative to the busier main beaches.

Day 5: Fly to Foz do Iguaçu, Guided Tour of Iguaçu Falls (Brazilian Side)

This morning, check out of your Rio hotel and take a private transfer to the airport, where you'll catch a flight to your next destination, Foz do Iguaçu. Located in the state of Paraná, the city is a gateway to Iguazú Falls National Park, which spans both Argentina and Brazil. Upon arrival, meet your driver for a transfer to your hotel, where you'll drop your bags and head out with your guide to explore the incredible Iguazú Falls.

Today's focus is on the Brazilian side of the waterfall. Start at the visitor's center, where you'll board a bus into the park. Arrive at a footbridge and continue on foot through a subtropical rainforest while the kids keep their eyes peeled for wildlife, such as toucans or even jaguars. Soon, you'll arrive at the Garganta del Diablo (Devil's Throat) waterfall. This is the perfect place for photos, as the Brazilian side showcases a constant rainbow that floats above the water. You can visit the shopping area, grab a bite at the restaurant here, and then transfer back to your hotel for the evening. 

Day 6: Iguaçu Falls (Argentina Side), Guided Jungle Hike & Boat Tour to Falls

After breakfast, it's time to tour the Argentine side of Iguazú Falls. Gather the family and head to the park, boarding a train that takes you to the massive Devil's Throat waterfall. You'll have time to disembark and see the falls from a different view, taking in its incredible drop of more than 260 feet (80m) into mist-shrouded pools. Reboard the train and head to the next station, where you'll take a walking tour of about 2 miles (3 km) along wooded footpaths and walkways that bring you closer to the falls and provide a more complete view. 

End the day with a tour that combines lush jungle and crashing waterfalls—all the elements that make Iguaçu so special. With your guide, you and your family will enter the jungle through the Sendero Yacaratiá trail, riding in vehicles specifically designed for the terrain. You'll hear about the local species that live in the area and see different plants that your guide points out.

The 30-minute drive takes you to Porto Macuco, where everyone will stow away any personal items in waterproof bags, don life jackets, and hop aboard a boat. Cruise upriver through the canyons of the Río Paraná, then approach the base of Salto Tres Mosqueteros (Three Musketeers Falls). Feel the strength and energy of the water as the boat gets as close as it can to the second-largest drop in the falls, Salto San Martín. The kids are sure to be thrilled by the cascades, and you're all likely to get wet, so dress accordingly! Afterward, return to the park entrance and head back to town.

Day 7: Visit Parque das Aves Bird Sanctuary, Fly to Manaus

Spend the morning at Parque das Aves, a 40-acre (16 ha) bird sanctuary. The sanctuary provides care to over 143 different species, with five immersive aviaries housing more than 1,000 birds. See toucans and curassows up close, visit the parakeet nursery, and let the kids experience a flock of 100 macaws flying directly over their heads! The park also has resident butterflies, caimans, anacondas, and alligators.

Depart the sanctuary and head back to your hotel to check out, then transfer to the airport to catch a flight to Manaus. Located in northwestern Brazil, on the banks of the Río Negro, Manaus is considered the primary departure point for expeditions into the Amazon Rainforest. Your jungle adventures begin tomorrow, so rest at your hotel tonight or take the family out for a stroll around town. 

Day 8: Transfer to the Amazon, Juma Tower & Canoeing, Nocturnal Animal Excursion 

Welcome to the jungle! Check out of your hotel and meet your driver for a scenic three-hour drive that takes you deep into the Amazon rainforest—your family's home for the next few days. You'll be heading to the Juma region and staying at Juma Amazon Lodge, an eco-friendly hotel designed to be fully integrated into the remote forest. Along the way, your driver will stop at the Meeting of the Waters, where the Río Solimões and Río Negro meet. This junction point between the rivers runs side by side for quite a distance without actually mixing, ultimately joining to form the great Amazon River.

Continue to Juma Lodge, and upon arrival, check-in and get settled in your rooms. Then, visit the Juma Observation Tower. At more than 100 feet high (31m), the tower offers incredible views of the area. Your guide will share information about the hotel and its sustainable practices as your family enjoys the incredible jungle landscapes. Afterward, the lodge will provide seedlings of native trees for planting, making everyone aware of the importance of preserving the forest.

If you'd like to get out on the water, consider a canoe tour of the igarapés (Amazonian creeks) and the igapós (flooded forest), only accessible by paddle canoes. See birds and other wildlife, and let the kids try their hand at paddling so the adults can relax to the sounds of the forest. Speaking of forests, later tonight, take an evening wildlife expedition. This two-hour tour takes you into the forest at night—the best time to see the region's nocturnal animals. Your guide will stop at various points along the way, using a flashlight to aid in the search as your family spots animals such as frogs, owls, anteaters, and more.

Day 9: Sunrise Bird Watching, Educational Jungle Hike, Piranha Fishing

There's nothing quite like a sunrise in the Amazon, and this morning, you and your family will get a chance to experience it firsthand. Depart with your guide in the early hours, watching the sky change color, and the birds awaken. The kids can spot different tropical birds with the binoculars provided, and photographers in the family can get some great shots! 

This afternoon, enjoy an educational jungle walk accompanied by an expert guide who will introduce you to the flora and fauna of the area. Learn about the uses of the plants that grow here and which ones are edible or medicinal. Spot monkeys and birds in the trees as your guide shares information about their daily habits and see how this essential ecosystem functions. The guides are also careful to use different paths during the walks to avoid damaging the forest with overuse.

Later, take an exciting fishing excursion to a nearby river, where instead of bass or catfish, you'll be angling for the carnivorous piranha! Meet your guide, and after a safety briefing, head out on the water, dropping your lines in the areas where the piranhas like to hide. While it's true that these fish do like to bite, there's no risk to you or the little ones, as your guide will be handling any piranha you reel in. Visitors might also be surprised to know that this isn't mere sport fishing—piranhas are a regional delicacy and the star ingredient in the local soup, caldo de piranha.

Day 10: Jungle Trek & Picnic, Meet Local Residents & Learn About Amazonian Culture

Learn more about local life in the Amazon today, starting with a family jungle hike that takes you deep into the rainforest. Your guide will accompany you along dense trails, sharing stories about the region's history and culture as you go. Stop in a beautiful resting spot for lunch, where you'll feast on regional food cooked over a fire. Then, rest for a bit in hammocks, just as local rainforest dwellers do! 

Return to Juma in time for a visit with an Amazonian local and learn about the traditional medicinal plants that have long been used to treat various illnesses. You'll also learn about the production of manioc flour, one of the region's primary exports and economic drivers. End the day with an informal presentation at the lodge, where a local guide will share stories of everyday life in the Amazon and interesting cultural tidbits. The kids will be fascinated with the tales of myths and legends surrounding the rainforest.

Day 11: Floating Pirarucu Fish Feeding, Transfer Back to Manaus

Say goodbye to the Amazon as you depart Juma and return to Manaus. Your driver will collect you in the morning for the 3.5-hour drive, stopping at an area called the Floating Piarucu along the way. The Pirarucu, or Arapaim, is a freshwater fish that can grow to nearly 9 feet (3 m) in length and up to 440 lbs (200 kg). The kids can feed these giant creatures, appreciating their size and strength. 

Arrive back in Manaus and check in at your hotel, then step out to see more of the city and explore its family-friendly parks—perfect if the kids need to let off steam after the drive. Start with a visit to Parque Cidade da Criança, which has playground equipment, miniature houses, and activities for the little ones. Or, head to Parque Estadual Sumaúma, a small preserve with more than 80 species of birds and various small mammals.

Museum buffs might want to visit the Teatro Amazonas Museum, a historic opera house dating back to the 1800s and an excellent example of Renaissance Revival architecture, or Museu da Amazonia (MUSA), a gorgeous reserve and botanical garden with themed exhibits, activities, and animal nurseries. Tonight, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant or hit up some of the shops for souvenirs. 

Day 12: Fly to Salvador, Salvador Zoo & Botanical Park

You're off to Salvador today, the capital of the northernmost state of Bahia. The city, one of the oldest in Brazil, is known for its tropical beaches, historic Portuguese architecture, and Baroque colonial churches. In the morning, check out of your hotel and take a private transfer to the airport for the 5.5-hour flight. Arrive and check-in at your hotel, then meet your guide for a private tour of the Salvador Zoo & Botanical Park. 

Located on the hillsides of the Onida district, near lively promenades and the Atlantic coast, this is a fantastic way to spend the day introducing the little ones to South America's incredible fauna and flora. The park focuses on preserving and showcasing life from the Brazilian rainforests and the surrounding state of Bahia, especially the last remaining areas of the Atlantic forest.

Accompanied by your guide, you and the kids can see crocodiles, panthers, exotic monkeys, ostriches, parrots, and more as you learn about Brazil's conservation efforts. The zoo also features a mix of sub-Saharan African creatures like hippos and zebras and more familiar faces like peacocks and flamingoes. If there's time at the end of the day, you can also explore the adjacent Museu de História Natural, which tells the stories of animal and human life in this corner of Brazil through collections of reclaimed bones and skeletons.

Day 13: Guided Sightseeing Tour of Salvador

Discover more of lively Salvador on a guided city tour. Meet your guide and start in the city's Upper Town, wandering the streets and alleys of the famed Pelourinho historic district, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and home to one of the largest existing collections of 17th and 18th-century colonial architecture in Latin America.

Stop by the Church of São Francisco, where the family can take in its rich Baroque architecture, then continue to Lower Town, the city's coastal area. Both towns are linked by the Lacerda, a 236-foot (72 m) elevator that will thrill adults and kids alike. Stroll through Lower Town, visiting sites such as the Mercado Modelo, a traditional craft center, and the Church of Senhor do Bonfim, the city's most well-known Catholic church. After the tour, return to your hotel or explore more on your own.

Day 14: Dinosaur Lagoon Visit, Depart Salvador

If you have time before your departure, take the kids to Lagoa dos Dinossauros (the Dinosaur Lagoon), located in the Stiep neighborhood. See life-sized replicas of dinosaurs, which roar to life through presence-detecting sensors, making for a fun and interactive experience. In addition to the giant roaring dinosaurs, the lagoon, which sits in a lush urban park filled with native Atlantic forest vegetation, is also home to fish, chameleons, marmosets, and even mud daubers.

Afterward, it's time to bid farewell to beautiful Brazil. Your private driver will pick you up from your hotel and take you to the airport for your departing flight. Safe travels home or to your next destination!

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