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The Ultimate Tropical Adventure in Brazil

9 nights
Easy

A perfect intro to Brazil’s Costa Verde: hike jungled mountains in Paraty, bask on Ilha Grande’s idyllic beaches and samba in Rio de Janeiro

What's Included?

Activities & Certified Guides

All itinerary activities with expert, local, English-speaking guides

Accommodation

3 nights in a city hotel and 6 nights in locally-run guesthouses

Meals

All breakfasts, 5 lunches and 5 dinners

Transfers

To and from the airport and everything in between

Equipment & Permits

All your kayaking equipment, plus all park permits

Small Like-minded Groups

Solo-friendly by design, join our small n’ sociable groups of up to 12 like-minded, active and outdoorsy people
From

excluding flights
From

excluding flights

What's it like?

Rio de Janeiro aerial view
View of the beach of Praia do Sono in Paraty, Brazil
The colourful streets of Paraty in Brazil.
Kayaks on a tropical beach backed by palm trees in Paraty, Brazil
Hikers on the trail to Ponta Negra in Brazil
The pool at Pousada Paraty, Brazil
Footballers silhouetted on the beach in Rio de Janeiro at sunset
Jungle and waterfalls along the Gold Trail Paraty
Paraty, Brazil.
Sunset views from Pao Acucar (Sugarloaf Mountain) in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Hike through lush Atlantic rainforest on Brazil's idyllic Costa Verde to reach deserted sandy bays, hidden waterfalls, and remote fishing villages

Swim crystal clear waters, explore adventurous forest trails and venture to the incredible Lopes Mendes beach on the island paradise of Ilha Grande

Tread historic trails and wander colourful cobbled streets in UNESCO-listed Paraty, kayaking to tropical islands and wildlife-rich mangroves in its protected bay

Catch sunset from the top of Sugarloaf Mountain, sip caipirinhas on Ipanema Beach and vibe to the rhythm of the samba in Rio’s best live music bars

Key Information

Day 1

Touch down in Rio de Janeiro

Aerial view of Copacabana Beach in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Welcome to Brazil! On arrival in Rio de Janeiro, meet your driver and head to your hotel in the heart of Copacabana. On the way catch your first glimpses of the Cidade Maravilhosa (the 'Marvellous City'), with its iconic sights coming into view. If you arrive on an early morning flight, you'll be able to check-in early, giving you a chance to recover from the long flight. In the afternoon, meet your guide and fellow travellers for a scenic walk along the famous Ipanema or Copacabana beaches – the perfect opportunity to soak up Rio’s vibrant atmosphere. Savour your first coconut water or a refreshing caipirinha while watching the sunset and as evening falls, immerse yourself in Brazilian cuisine with your first taste of the local flavours. Although you'll depart the city tomorrow morning, don’t worry – you'll return to Rio to see more on Day 8. If you decide to arrive a few days earlier, you can take the opportunity to visit some of the city's must-see landmarks not covered in this itinerary, such as the Christ the Redeemer statue.

Day 2

To the Atlantic Forest, and colourful buildings of Paraty

Waterfalls along the Gold Trail in Paraty

Hiking

2hrs · 5km · 50m up · 150m down

Swimming

1hr

Driving

4hrs

This morning, leave the hectic buzz of Rio behind and embark on a four-hour drive along Brazil's stunning Costa Verde, with jungle-covered mountains on one side and the sparkling blue Bay of Angra dos Reis on the other, dotted with tropical islands. After checking in to your hotel in Paraty and grabbing lunch, get ready to immerse yourself in the area's rich history and pristine nature. Hit the 18th-century Gold Trail, which once connected Paraty to the gold mines of Minas Gerais, to hike a small section. You'll head mainly downhill through the lush forest, stopping at waterfalls for refreshing swims or sliding down the natural rock formations. Off the trail, visit a traditional distillery to see how cachaça is made. Enjoy a tasting session and learn about Paraty’s role in the development of Brazil’s national cocktail, the Caipirinha. This evening, stroll through Paraty’s cobbled streets, lined with colourful houses, and soak up the charm of one of Brazil’s best-preserved colonial towns, with plenty of cosy restaurants to choose from for dinner.

Day 3

Trek along Brazil's pristine Costa Verde

Ponta Negra Trek, Brazil

Hiking

2hrs · 7km · 200 up · 200 down

Swimming

2hrs

This morning, you’ll embark on an unforgettable two-day trek along some of the most pristine and secluded beaches on Brazil’s Costa Verde. You can leave your main luggage safely in Paraty (where you'll return for one final night tomorrow), bringing only your daypack with essentials and a change of clothes. After a short road transfer to the trailhead, you’ll begin hiking through the lush Atlantic Forest, making your way along the stunning coastline. Along the route, you’ll explore and swim at beaches like Sono, Antigos, and Antiguinhos – each with its own charm and beauty. Your destination for the night is the fishing village of Ponta Negra, a place where time seems to stand still. Located at the edge of the jungle in the remote Juatinga Peninsula Eco Reserve, Ponta Negra is surrounded by untouched forest, and the local Caiçara community continues their traditional way of life, living off the sea. Spend the afternoon relaxing, getting to know the locals and indulging in the village’s delicious fresh seafood. Later, bed down in simple but cosy cottages.

Day 4

Hike to the natural infinity pool at Saco Bravo waterfall

A man diving into the turquoise waters backed by forest in Paraty, Brazil.

Hiking

4hrs · 8km · 560 up · 560 down

Boat Ride

30mins

Spending the night in Ponta Negra means that with an early start, you can reach the stunning waterfall at Saco Bravo and enjoy it before the boat trippers arrive. Begin by hitting the forest trails again, eyes peeled for parrots, spider monkeys and other exotic wildlife along the way. After a couple of hours hiking, arrive at the incredible Saco Bravo Waterfall, the undisputed highlight of the trek. This unique, natural infinity pool set in the rocky coast overlooks the sea, and is a photogenic masterpiece. Of course, you'll have time to cool off with a dip, and soak in this beautiful spot over a picnic. Hiking back to Ponta Negra, you'll then hop on a quick taxi-boat back to Laranjeiras, where your adventure began yesterday, and transfer by road back to Paraty. You'll be back in town by the afternoon, leaving you time to unwind at the comfortable hotel. The evening is yours to explore more of Paraty’s renowned restaurants, boutiques and music bars, which stay open late.

Day 5

Kayak the bay of Paraty and escape to Ilha Grande

Kayakers paddling through mangroves near Paraty in Brazil

Kayaking

3hrs

Driving

2hrs

Boat Ride

30mins

Stunningly beautiful, Paraty’s bay is best explored from the water. So today, you’ll enjoy a leisurely guided kayak adventure, venturing to tropical islands and deserted sandy beaches. The route will depend on sea conditions and weather, but will always begin with a safety briefing, where your experienced guide will show you the ropes. After hitting the warm, flat waters, you’ll take in panoramic views of Paraty and the coastal mountains. Stops typically include Malvão Island, known for its crystal-clear waters ideal for optional snorkelling, and some off-grid beaches favoured by locals – away from the crowds. Keep an eye out for jumping fish, turtles and dolphins, and conclude with a paddle through the mangroves, observing the wildlife up close before returning to the mainland. After a quick lunch, you'll transfer to Angra dos Reis to catch the public boat to Ilha Grande, a divine car-free island with incredible hiking trails and beaches. Your base for the next three nights is Abraão, the island’s main village, where you'll check in to your cosy guesthouse, surrounded by tropical beauty and complete with hammocks for relaxation.

Day 6

Hike to Lopes Mendes, one of Brazil's top beaches

Lopes Mendes beach in Ilha Grande.

Hiking

2.5hrs · 7km · 330m up · 330m down

Boat Ride

30mins

This morning you'll set off on a relatively short but adventurous hike through the vibrant jungles and pristine beaches of Ilha Grande. Leaving Abraão, the trail begins to climb steeply, but your efforts are rewarded with breathtaking views over the bay. As you progress, lush landscapes unfold, with the path weaving through dense vegetation – the terrain can often be muddy and dotted with rocks and tree roots, demanding some careful footing. Along the way, make some rest stops in three stunning beaches, each offering a unique slice of paradise: Palmas Beach, Mangues Beach and Pouso Beach. Finally, you will arrive at Praia Lopes Mendes, one Brazil's crown jewels. The soft, white sands and glistening waves are perfect for a cool swim or some well deserved relaxation after your hike. You'll head back to Abraão by boat this afternoon, with the evening free for you to enjoy one of the restaurants in the village with your fellow travellers.

Day 7

Hike to the secluded beach paradise of Dois Rios

The pristine sands of Dois Rios Beach on Ilha Grande in Brazil

Hiking

4-5hrs · 15km · 670 up · 350 down

It's your final day on this island paradise as you'll be heading back to buzzy Rio tomorrow. So, make the most of it and enjoy a final day hike, following a trail that winds through the Atlantic Forest across hilly ridges before descending to the stunning Praia de Dois Rio, a secluded beach nestled between two steep mountains. Home to a maximum-security prison between 1904 and 1994, today the site and beach offer a peaceful retreat where nature has reclaimed much of what was once a village. The beach (the name of which translates to Two Rivers Beach) is framed by two freshwater rivers with cool, pristine waters which are perfect for a refreshing swim. You will also have time to explore the Museu do Carcere (Prison Museum), which offers insight into the infamous history of the prison, before hiking back to Abraão.

Day 8

Back to Rio for Sugar Loaf views

Views from Sugarloaf Mountain in Rio de Janeiro, with the cable car in the foreground

Hiking

1hr · 4km · 260 up · 0 down

Driving

4hrs

Boat Ride

30mins

You'll leave Ilha Grande this morning, catching the first a boat back to mainland followed by a four-hour transfer back to Rio de Janeiro. This coastal city is blessed with some breathtaking natural beauty, nestled between lush, green mountains and the sparkling Atlantic Ocean, and this afternoon you'll explore one of its most iconic landmarks: Sugarloaf Mountain. This tall, pointed, isolated peak is a key feature of Rio de Janeiro's world-famous skyline. You'll start with a short hike from Praia Vermelha beach – admire the stunning panoramic views of Rio and keep your eyes open for local wildlife, such as toucans and monkeys. Continue on to the summit of Morro da Urca, where you are free to soak in the views from the observation decks and relax over a drink, before boarding the cable car to Sugarloaf's peak, which towers 395m above sea level. From the top, breathtaking views of Rio await, with the sunset providing an especially unforgettable experience. You'll then return to your hotel in Copacabana for some much-needed rest.

Day 9

Pedra Bonita views and samba time

Carnival costume in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Hiking

1.5hrs · 3km · 370 up · 370 down

This morning you'll drive to the world’s largest urban forest, Tijuca National Park, for a short but steep 45-minute hike to the peak of Pedra Bonita (693m). Located just outside Rio, it offers breathtaking views of the city. Next, discover the magic behind Rio's famous Carnival as you visit the warehouse of one of the city's leading samba schools. See how elaborate floats and costumes are made, learn about Carnival's history, and try on costumes while sipping a caipirinha. You'll also learn about Pimpolhos da Grande Rio, a youth organization which promotes social inclusion through art, culture, and Carnival. Tonight, it's time to Immerse yourself in Rio’s vibrant nightlife to celebrate the end of this incredible Brazilian adventure. Your guide will take you to some popular local spots – with live Brazilian music from samba to forró, you’ll dance the night away in rustic bars or outdoor parties alongside Cariocas, with a diverse scene famed for welcoming the LGBT+ community.

Day 10

Goodbye Brazil!

Brazil surf boards.

Your trip comes to an end after breakfast. Your adventure in Rio de Janeiro and the wild hikes along the Costa Verde are likely to stay in your memory for a long time, hopefully inspiring you to return to Brazil for more adventures in the future. If you're not ready to leave just yet, you can also choose to extend this tour to visit other parts of the country independently such as iconic Iguaçu Falls, the jaguar sanctuaries of Pantanal, or the Amazon, all easily accessible with direct flights from Rio. Feel free to contact your host for further tips and suggestions.

The Area

map

Logistics

Starts

Galeão International Airport, Rio de Janeiro

Arrive by 15:00 on Day 1

Ends

Galeão International Airport, Rio de Janeiro

Any time on Day 10

Transfers

Two arrival transfers are included on Day 1 at set times (usually one in the morning and one early afternoon), provided you have shared your arrival flight details in advance with the host. Most international flights land in Rio in the early hours, so an early check-in is included on Day 1 if you join the early airport transfer. Your adventure begins around 16:00 on Day 1, when your guide will meet you in the hotel lobby for a welcome briefing then take you out on an orientation walk along Copacabana and Ipanema beaches, where you'll also enjoy your first welcome dinner.

On the final day of the trip, two set group transfers will depart from your hotel in Rio to the airport, usually in the morning and afternoon to meet your flight times. If the arranged transfer timings do not work for you, you can always opt to travel from and to the airport by taxi (approximately $20-25 one way) or by private transfer. Please see the Optional Extras section for further details.

Full joining instructions and exeact timings will be shared closer to the departure.

Travel options

There are direct flights to Rio de Janeiro from London (usually scheduled daily with British Airways), as well as alternative indirect routes via Europe, with direct connections from Lisbon, Madrid and Amsterdam. Direct flights are also available from the US from Houston, Atlanta, Miami and New York.

Day 1

Hotel · Twin share

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Day 2

Guesthouse · Twin share

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Day 3

Cottage · Twin share

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Day 4

Guesthouse · Twin share

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Day 5

Guesthouse · Twin share

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Day 6

Guesthouse · Twin share

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Day 7

Guesthouse · Twin share

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Day 8

Hotel · Twin share

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Day 9

Hotel · Twin share

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Day 10

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

What is the food like?

Typical Brazilian dish of lobster moqueca.

While many of the meals during the trip are included, we've also factored in a few days where lunches or dinners are not included to give you the opportunity to explore the best local restaurants according to your taste. Brazilian cuisine is a vibrant fusion of indigenous, African, Portuguese, and immigrant influences, and key dishes include the national dish of feijoada (a rich black bean stew typically served with rice, collard greens, and farofa) and moqueca (a flavourful fish stew made with coconut milk, palm oil, and spices). Pão de queijo are also worth trying (small, chewy cheese breads made from cassava flour) as well the popular street food coxinha (a fried dough filled with shredded chicken). For dessert, the chocolatey condensed milk treat known as brigadeiro, is a must. Given its coastal location, seafood is central to the regional cuisine of the Costa Verde. Dishes like peixe grelhado (grilled fish) and caldeirada de frutos do mar (seafood stew) are popular, often featuring freshly caught fish, shrimp, and shellfish. As for drinks, the Caipirinha (made with cachaça, lime, and sugar), is a refreshing favourite.

Vegetarian and vegan diets can be catered for, but please be aware that in much of South America, very few popular dishes are vegetarian or fully plant-based. This means that options for these dietary requirements may be more limited. Please just request this on your passenger info form.

What is the accommodation like?

Room at Copa Sul hotel
Rio de Janeiro

You'll spend the first night plus the final two nights of the trip at the comfortable, modern and locally owned Copa Sul Hotel, sitting just one block away from Copacabana Beach and within walking distance of the iconic Ipanema Beach, with plenty of bars, restaurants and amenities within easy reach. You'll stay in bright rooms on a twin-share basis. Combining wooden furnishings with splashes of colour, the rooms are equipped with air conditioning, cable TV, a minibar and a private bathroom.

The Pousada do Principe in Paraty, Brazil
Paraty

You'll stay at the charming Pousada do Príncipe for two nights in Paraty, on a twin-share basis. This historic building was originally home to Príncipe D. João Henrique de Orleans e Bragança, great-grandfather to Princesa Isabel who famously signed to abolish slavery in 1888, and is still owned by descendants of the family. Brightly painted shutters and atmospheric photographs adorn the hotel's comfortable rooms, which have modern amenities such as air conditioning, TVs, ensuite bathrooms and minibars. A refreshing pool and terrace is surrounded by leafy, tropical plants in the property's ample grounds. The bar offers a range of aperitifs, and the in-house restaurant serves snacks as well as local and Asian dishes. Paraty's historic centre is just a three-minute walk away, perfect for evening exploration.

Cottage in Ponta Negra village, Brazil
Ponta Negra

Spend one night in secluded Ponta Negra – one of the most beautiful and best-preserved beaches in Brazil, only reachable by hiking trail or boat. Tucked away in the lush Juatinga Ecological Reserve, the charming caiçara village is home to a fishing community of approximately 160 people of indigenous, African and European heritage. This magical place is surrounded by intensely green mountains which plunge into the crystal-clear sea, punctuated by pristine waterfalls. Spending the night there will be a unique chance to immerse yourself in the traditional way of life, learning about the fishing practices, craftsmanship and traditions that have been passed down from generation to generation. You'll be accommodated in simple but cosy little cottages, with hot showers and electricity to recharge phones. A truly authentic seaside retreat!

Portal Das Borbas, Ilha Grande
Ilha Grande

On Ilha Grande you'll spend three nights at the charming Pousada Portal dos Borbas. Nestled amidst the island's tropical beauty, it has a lush garden brimming with lush flowers and inviting hammocks. Inside, the vibrancy continues with 14 colourful twin-share rooms, each offering an open veranda. The property is conveniently located just a short stroll from Abraão Beach, the heart of Vila do Abraão, close to numerous restaurants.

Upgrades

For solo travellers looking for their own space, a private room can be booked for an extra charge, see Optional Extras for the price and request this at the time of booking. Please note that due to the limited size of some of the properties used, availability is restricted.

This trip has been rated as Easy

This trip is designed for anyone with a sense of adventure and an interest in combining wild hikes with beach time and cultural immersion in Rio de Janeiro and along the stunning Costa Verde, considered by many to be the most beautiful coastline in Brazil. Although the trip is overall graded as Easy, please note that you'll be active for three to six hours each day (hiking, exploring, swimming or kayaking) so a good level of fitness is recommended to enjoy the trip.

The trip includes a mix of easy and moderate hikes along stunning jungle and coastal trails, where you'll often be immersed in dense forests filled with vibrant fauna and flora. The terrain can be be uneven or slippery at times and although the distances do not seem big, there are short but steep sections which will get your heart pumping, especially in hot or humid conditions. Overall, you should be comfortable hiking an average of 3-4 hours each day; the pace, however, will be leisurely with plenty of stops to take in the views, swim at stunning wild beaches or take a dip at refreshing waterfalls.

While in Paraty, you'll also have a half-day kayaking excursion included. Your experienced guide will give paddling and safety instructions before you set out on the warm, calm waters of the bay. For your safety and comfort you'll be using stable double kayaks with rudders – specifically designed to go further with less effort. No previous kayaking experience is necessary and beginners are welcome, but you must be comfortable being in the water.

Overall, this itinerary is designed to maximise your experience in Brazil, with a fast-paced schedule which includes a few early starts and busy days but also plenty of relaxation time to enjoy the wonderful beaches. You’ll have the opportunity to explore a variety of sights and activities, ensuring you make the most of your time in each location. While some of the days may be packed, each moment is curated to provide you with unforgettable memories and a rich understanding of the local culture and landscape.

What if i need to skip an activity?

If you prefer to opt out from any of the activities, it's absolutely fine – just let your guide know. You can enjoy some extra leisure time in the towns, villages or in Rio, or wait for the group somewhere close by.

What will I need to carry?

Your larger bag suitable for all your belongings will be transported for you throughout the trip by vehicle. You'll only need a small rucksack (25-30L) to carry personal items during each day of activity. During your two-day trek to Saco Bravo, you can leave your main luggage at the hotel in Paraty and hike with just your overnight kit, including essential items such as a torch, insect repellent, flip flops, light jacket or jumper, rain gear, an evening change of clothes and sleepwear. Please note that in Ilha Grande you're required to carry your luggage from the ferry port to your accommodation (approximately 5 minutes' walk), so luggage with wheels is recommended. Alternatively, you can arrange a porterage service for a small fee, payable locally.

Rio, the Costa Verde and Ilha Grande can be visited throughout the year; however, this trip has been scheduled to run during Brazil's drier winter season, between May and November, when temperatures are milder and with less rain. There are also fewer crowds than during the summer months of December to March. Between May and November you are most likely to experience good weather with pleasant average temperatures that fall between 20°C and 26°C – perfect for outdoor activities. Evenings can sometimes be cooler, so bringing some layers is recommended.

This trip is brand new

We’re still waiting to collect any reviews from other travellers on this trip. However, all our hosts go through an extensive vetting process to ensure that your adventure is awesome.

Enjoy 12.5% Off Outdoor Gear

In need of a few more items? All bookings receive a 12.5% discount to use at Cotswold Outdoor, Snow + Rock and Runner's Need.

What's included?

  • All your kayaking equipment, including safety jackets and dry bags

What do I need to bring?

BAGS

  • Soft overnight duffel bag or rucksack (with wheels preferred)
  • Daypack (25-30 litres)
  • Waterproof liner or drybags for your daypack

CLOTHES

  • Waterproof jacket
  • Light jacket or jumper for the evenings
  • Lightweight trousers/shorts/skirts
  • T-shirts
  • Underwear and socks
  • Swimwear
  • Sunglasses
  • Sunhat
  • Sleepwear
  • Light hiking or trail shoes or trainers with sturdy soles
  • Sandals or flip flops

OTHER

  • Universal travel plug adapter
  • Power bank or solar charger
  • Passports (and visas)
  • Travel insurance documents
  • Ear plugs
  • Insect repellent
  • Suncream
  • Personal first-aid kit (inc. blister treatment)
  • Personal items (biodegradable toiletries, sanitary wear etc)
  • Quick-dry towel
  • Alcohol hand-gel
  • Headtorch or torch
  • Reusable water bottle x1 litre (or x2)
  • Biodegradable wet-wipes
  • Energy bars and snacks - read our article on Best Hiking Snacks
  • Water purification tablets/treatment system
*Requests for optional extras can be made after booking on your “My Bookings” page

Additional night in Rio at Copa Sul Hotel - Double Room

Payable Before Departure

Additional night in Rio at Copa Sul Hotel - Double Room

Per Night

Additional night in Rio at Copa Sul Hotel - Single Room

Payable Before Departure

Additional night in Rio at Copa Sul Hotel - Single Room

Per Night

Optional Private Room Upgrade

Payable Before Departure

Optional Private Room Upgrade

Private Arrival Transfer Rio International Airport - Copacabana Hotel (1-2 pax per vehicle)

Payable Before Departure

Private Arrival Transfer Rio International Airport - Copacabana Hotel (1-2 pax per vehicle)

Private Departure Transfer Copacabana Hotel - Rio International Airport (1-2 pax per vehicle)

Payable Before Departure

Private Departure Transfer Copacabana Hotel - Rio International Airport (1-2 pax per vehicle)

We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre programme, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity.

What's the number?
It works out on average at 137kg of CO2 emissions per person, including all local transport, accommodation, food, activities, guides, staff and office operations.

The only thing it doesn’t include right now is flights and travel to the destination. We do make an overall estimate across all our customers separately, but as we don’t book flights, have customers from all corners of the world, and no way of reliably knowing their travel plans, we simply can’t include an individual number in the figure on display here. We’ve got a goal to fix that, so that when you book, there is a way to measure and mitigate the carbon emitted by your flight too.

But what does the number mean?
Yep, hard to picture eh? To give you an idea:

  • Driving 1000miles/1609km would be approx. 281kg of CO2 in an average car (or 140.5kg per person if there was 2 of you in it).
  • A return economy class flight London - New York would be approx. 1,619kg (1.66 tonnes) per person.
  • 10 trees in a temperate forest are estimated to remove approx. 250kg of CO2 from the air in a period of 5-10 years.

What are we doing about it?
Our trips are relatively low-carbon by design, and we're working with all our hosts to develop long term carbon reduction plans. We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre programme, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity, ensuring the protection of the reserve and its wildlife.

Want to know more?
Amazingly, no international travel company has ever publicly published their carbon measurements before, as far as we know. We believe that must change, quickly. So we’re openly sharing the method we used in the hope that other companies will be able to more easily follow suit and build on what we've done so far. You'll find it all here.

Should external factors (such as severe weather conditions) cause alterations to what is possible, then the ordering of the above itinerary and/or the duration of the activities in each location may have to change. The local host will endeavour to ensure that any replacement activities are of a similar style. The kayak tour on the flat waters of the bay of Paraty usually stops at one or two secluded beaches and includes some paddling through a mangrove area on the way back, providing the tide is high enough. The route may change depending on the daily weather/tide on the day.

A certified, English-speaking main guide will be with the group throughout the trip and will join all activities. In addition, you'll be joined by an additional expert local guide during some of the hikes, plus a specialist state registered, English-speaking kayak instructor with American Canoe Association (ACA) training on Day 5.

Yes, you can leave any excess luggage you don't need during the trip safely stored at the hotel in Rio de Janeiro, where you'll return for the final two nights of the trip.

Although Rio de Janeiro has historically had a bad reputation regarding safety, it is actually a safe and enjoyable destination for visitors if you remain vigilant and take sensible precautions. Your guide will be with you during all the included activities, but if you decide to head out independently during your free time, we suggest you stick to traveller-friendly areas and always keep an eye on your personal belongings. Avoid wandering into favelas or walking in poorly lit areas at night. In busy areas like Ipanema, Copacabana and near key landmarks there is generally a strong police presence, which improves safety. Overall, it's recommended to not display wealth – avoid carrying flashy jewellery, expensive electronics, or large amounts of cash in public. Make sure you use only registered taxis or ride-sharing apps like Uber. Your guide will give you further advice on where to go and which areas to avoid during your stay.

The tap water in Brazil is not always friendly on the stomach for those who haven't been in Latin America for a while. There is usually purified water in each of the accommodation which you can use to fill up each morning, so be sure to pack a reusable water bottle or two.

You'll be paddling in stable, double sea kayaks with rudders that are specifically designed to go further with less effort. A safety jacket and a dry bag are also provided.

This trip visits locations where daytime temperatures can be extremely high during the times of year when this trip operates. High humidity and limited access to shade can also be factors, and warm temperatures can continue into the nighttime, which additionally influence the body’s ability to cool down. Personal care should be taken to keep cool as best possible in the conditions, such as wearing appropriate clothing and proper hydration. Very high temperatures can impair an individual’s physical abilities to perform an activity that they may otherwise be able to do competently at cooler temperatures. People may experience symptoms associated with dehydration and Heat Stroke. Your guide(s) are trained to mitigate the risks associated with high temperatures, by carefully managing the intensity of the activity, and to provide the appropriate support response should someone feel ill during the trip. Should you experience health issues during your trip you should inform your guide immediately so the proper care can be provided.

Marta Marinelli, raised in Italy’s serene Prosecco Hills, dreamt of global adventures, inspired by her father's travel stories. Her passion evolved into a career, backed by a decade of studies including degrees in international tourism and destination management. She’s worked in the adventure travel sector since 2012, living in Italy, the UK, and now sunny Portugal.

Over twenty years, Marta has explored over 60 countries, visiting remote areas like Ghana, Rwanda, Sao Tome and Principe, Haiti and Nepal’s Upper Mustang region. As a Senior Adventure Expansion Manager at Much Better Adventures, she focuses on creating life-changing experiences, ranging from multi-activity adventures, challenging treks to ultimate adventures in iconic places. She loves the challenge of finding the best local adventure hosts around the world, collaborating on adventures that offer genuine immersion, pushing beyond the beaten path and working on exclusive itineraries that challenge your comfort zone.

What makes her tick? Enabling people to live adventure-rich lives while positively impacting and empowering local communities around the world, generating sustainable opportunities for both the host, guides, community, and the environment.

Sure can! Over 70% of our travellers travel solo, it’s a great way to meet like-minded people.

Our team of Adventure Hunters co-create exclusive adventures which are run by highly vetted, specialist hosts. The trip is run by our trusted host partner in the destination. We only work with independent, local, in-destination experts who know the very best places to explore and how to stay safe. Read more information about the local teams we partner with. You’ll be introduced to the host straight after making a booking via the Much Better Adventures platform.

Much Better Adventures refer to the UK Government’s official travel advice when designing trips and monitoring trip operations. We recommend that all customers are familiar with the practical information provided on the Government’s FCDO website, where current travel advice can be found by searching for the applicable destination(s).

For customers joining this trip from other international destinations – please also read the official travel advice applicable to your country of residence/origin, as this may differ.

Our recommended travel insurance provider is Campbell Irvine.

Travel insurance is compulsory for all of our adventures and you are required to provide your policy information before departing.

Your insurance should include adequate protection for overseas medical treatment, evacuation/repatriation, your baggage and equipment and the specific activities involved on your adventure. We also strongly recommend it includes cancellation and curtailment insurance, should you be unable to join your trip for specific reasons such as illness.

We fully endorse Campbell Irvine as their insurance offers all of the above, so get in touch with them or call on 020 7938 1734 to get your insurance sorted. We suggest that you book travel insurance as soon as you book your adventure, just to cover you for any last-minute life changes. We know you’re an active lot and injuries do happen!

We recommend checking out the country-specific information and also talking to a travel nurse.

We automatically convert prices from the local currency that a host receives to your chosen currency. We update our exchange rates on a daily basis so this does mean that prices displayed on the site are subject to currency fluctuations, which is why you may see them change over time.

If you wish to change the currency you pay in, head to the bottom of the page.

All of our group adventures are specially designed for adults to enjoy (18+) as we want these adventures to bring together outdoorsy people who are truly like-minded. Children can be accommodated on some private departures.

You're always in good company on one of our adventures.

Our trips are typically made up of a mixture of solo travellers and small groups of 2 or 3 friends, with most in their 30s-50s.

Our sociable adventures are solo-friendly by design and naturally attract outdoorsy people with a shared mindset; a love for adventure, a desire to push themselves and meet awesome, like-minded people along the way.

It’s this camaraderie that has so often turned a great adventure into a life-changing one.

Don't just take our word for it:

  • 95% of people rate the group dynamics on our trips 5/5
  • 90% of people recommend joining a trip to make new friends
  • 75% of people have met people on our trips that they would now consider friends

See here for more info about the Much Better Adventures tribe.

Interested in a more exclusive experience? Opt for a 'Private Group' through the dates and prices tab to book this adventure for just you and your chosen companions.

We've got your back

Guaranteed to run

All our trips are now guaranteed to run. Once you’ve booked your spot you can immediately make your travel arrangements, no uncertainty, no hanging about (excludes 'request to book' departures). Full details

Flexible payments

Secure your spot with the minimum deposit and pay off the remaining balance in as many instalments as you like, with no interest or fees. Full details

Happiness Guarantee

We’re so confident you’ll have an amazing time we’ll put our money on it. Full details

Full financial protection

To give you complete peace of mind we’re backed by ABTOT, ABTA and ATOL memberships. Full details

Tried & Trusted

We’re rated ‘Excellent’ on Trustpilot with over 1000 verified trip reviews averaging 4.8/5.

Connect before you go

You'll be invited to join a WhatsApp group to get to know each other before your big adventure together. Full details

DEPARTURE DATES

May 2025

Friday 9th May 2025

to Sunday 18th May 2025
Guaranteed to run
New Trip Offer - Next 2 spots available at 5% off
Illustration of a group of people kayaking

Go private and split the bill with ease.

Forget complex logistics, we've taken care of all the details to ensure a hassle-free get together. All of the adventure, none of the faff.

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