Rio & Santa Catarina Eco Adventure, Brazil By Private Car New! Rio de Janeiro, Florianópolis, Garopaba, Rio do Rastro Mountains 9 Days / 8 Nights Daily Arrivals in Rio de Janeiro ItineraryPrices & Accomodations

Highlights:

• Ascend to the top of Corcovado Mountain, now one of the Seven Wonders of the World
• Relax at the Tropical Beaches of Santa Catarina State
• Thrilling White Water Rafting (Category II & III)
• Unforgettable encounter with Right Whales and their Calves! (July through October)
• Jeep or Horseback Ride in the Evergreen Canyons of the Rio do Rastro Mountains!

Tour Includes:

• Airfare from Rio de Janeiro to Florianópolis
• Accommodations in Superior First Class Hotels/Lodges
• Meals per Itinerary
• Transfers and Sightseeing per Itinerary by Private Car
• Locally Hosted by Private English-Speaking Guides
• Hotel Taxes & Service Charges
• Deluxe Flight Bag and Document Kit
• USTOA $1 Million Travelers Assistance Program

ItineraryDAY 1: Rio de Janeiro Arrive in Rio, nestled between the mountains and the sea. The very sound of its name evokes images of sun, fun and rhythm of the sensuous samba. Few places on earth can match the hospitality, natural charm and excitement of this city. That’s why many Brazilians call Rio the “Cidade Maravilhosa”—the marvelous city. Transfer to your hotel; remainder of the day at leisure.


DAY 2: Rio de Janeiro Morning arrival at the base of Corcovado Mountain, now one of the new New Seven Wonders of the World; take a short train ride to the summit. Here, 2,400 feet above the city, stands one of South America’s most famous landmarks, the 125-foot statue of “Christ the Redeemer.” The panorama of the city below is testament to why most visitors consider Rio one of the most spectacular and beautiful cities in the world. (B) DAY 3: Rio de Janeiro / Florianópolis Morning flight to Florianópolis, capital of the State of Santa Catarina. This surprisingly modern city, with its rich culture and history is located on Santa Catarina Island. Upon arrival, visit the city’s center including Cathedral Square and Plaza 15th of November. Time to stroll in the covered Mercado Público (Public Market), at the heart of the historic center. Next, drive to Santo Antônio de Lisboa, one of the oldest villages on the Island, still preserving the traditions of a fishing village community amongst centuries-old buildings. Continue to Jurerê International, for lunch at a charming local restaurant. Leisure time at the magnificent beach. (B.L)DAY 4: Florianópolis / Rafting /GaropabaDepart for Santo Amaro da Imperatriz for an exciting rafting experience (Category II & III) in the Cubatão do Sul River. Enjoy lunch at an authentic old cachaçaria (Brazilian rum mill). Then head to Praia do Rosa for overnight. (B.L.D)



DAY 5: Garopaba (Whale Watching) Meeting the biologists of the “Right Whale Institute” for a brief explanation about the Right Whale. Then, a boat ride takes you to find the Whales and their recently born Calves (July to October). You’ll be escorted by specially trained personnel and biologists from the Right Whale Institute. Very few places in the world offer such a close encounter with these gentle giant creatures and their newborn calves. (B.D)

Note: The Right Whales are present in the area from July through October. During other periods, this tour will be replaced by the Dolphin Watching Tour, described in Day 6.DAY 6: Garopaba Day at leisure. Enjoy swimming, surfing lessons or just relax. Optional tours will be offered to the town of Laguna or to participate in the Dolphin Watch tour.

Optional tour to historic Laguna, where the Tordesilhas Treaty, separating the Portuguese and Spanish Colonies, was signed. Visit to the Anita Garibaldi Museum takes you back to a passionate past. Today’s highlight is the sight of the playful dolphins at Molhes da Barra. For over 400 years, generations of wild dolphins have been assisting the local fishermen, in gathering fish straight to their nets. (B.L)

DAY 7: Garopaba / Rio do Rastro Mountains (Evergreen Canyons) Drive to the breathtaking Rio do Rastro Road, passing by the striking natural sight of the incomparable Evergreen Canyon. Upon arrival at the Rio do Rastro Eco Resort, enjoy horseback riding or embark on a jeep tour along the thrilling canyons and the Araucaria’s forests. On Saturday nights, local music and Gaucho’s entertainment with be provided. (B.D)


DAY 8: Rio do Rastro Mountains / FlorianópolisMorning at leisure to enjoy many activities at the hotel. After lunch, return to Florianópolis. Stop at the Vila Francioni Winery to savor the wonderful wines, and at Urubici and Rancho Queimado, where you can purchase handicrafts. (B.L)

Note: Some activities at the lodge may be operated in small groups. DAY 9: Depart Florianópolis Transfer to the airport for your homebound flight or your next adventure in Brazil & South America! (B)

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Land & Domestic Air Prices Per Person*

Daily Arrivals:	Twin	Triple	Single
2008: Mar 1– Dec 15	$3562	$3070	$4573
2009: Mar 1 – Dec 15	$3913	$3384	$5137

Please call us for International Airfares in Economy or Business Class.

* Prices are not valid during Carnival in Brazil, and are based on a minimum of 2 persons traveling together. Per person traveling alone please add $1390. Please add $12 domestic Airport Taxes. U.S. Passport holders are required to issue a visa to Brazil; Fees and handling are not included.
For January & February departures please inquire.Accomodations

City / Hotel	Nights	Superior First Class
Rio	2	Excelsior Copacabana (Superior Ocean View room)
Florianópolis	2	Majestic Palace
Garopaba	3	Vida Sol e Mar (Ocean View)
Rio do Rastro Mountains	1	Rio do Rastro Eco Resort

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