Discover Rio De Janeiro
Visit Rio all year but expect hotter and rainier weather November to April. Rio Carnival takes place in February.
With so much to see and do it is easy to spend four or five days exploring the city, enjoying the culture and immersing yourself in Rio's vibrant energy.
From the iconic Sugarloaf Mountain to the thrusting modernist buildings of the city’s skyline, with Christ the Redeemer rising serenely above on Corcovado, to the azure waters of Guanabara Bay, along with the hedonistic playground feel of the sun-kissed sands of Copacabana and Ipanema, Rio will bowl you over with sensations as persistent as the Atlantic waves breaking on its shores.
Rio is almost synonymous with the word ‘carnival’, and many come here to be submerged in a pulsating festival of joy that sees millions take to the street while revelling in the flamboyant costumes, floats, and sensuous samba dancing. Even outside carnival season, you’ll be able to see outfits and floats being constructed, and a visit to a samba school is not to be missed.
- Rio carnival is an astonishing spectacle of costumes, floats and a seething mass of humanity.
- Visit the world-famous beaches, including Copacabana and Ipanema. The beautiful people match the scenery.
- Rio is a place where you should get up high, perhaps on the Corcovado, the location of Christ the Redeemer.
- There are so many fascinating neighbourhoods to explore, many of which have excellent open markets.
- The nightlife of Rio is world-famous. You’ll party to the sounds of bossa nova, samba, and chorinho.
- The local cuisine is as perfect and as sunny as the Rio climate. Eating and drinking in this city is a joyous experience.
- Rio is a city crammed full of exhilarating and bold art and architecture.
For more than a century, the Copacabana Palace has been a fixture on Rio’s most vibrant and glorious beach. To stay in this graceful and glamorous hotel is to take part in the history of this amazing city.
Fasano Rio de Janeiro is a design icon with a superb position right by one of the world’s most desirable beaches. There’s no need to pinch yourself, the views are real.
This restored colonial coffee farm mansion has abundant stylish character and is the perfect counterpoint to the glitzy hotels on Rio’s beaches.
With just seven rooms and a history of personal involvement from four generations of the same family, this is a small-scale and elegant hotel with charm that matches the quality of its views.
If you want a high-quality experience in a superb location affording staggering views of Copacabana beach and its dramatic environs, then Miramar by Windsor is the place to stay.
Nature may have sculpted the dramatic granite hills and gorgeous sandy beaches of Rio de Janeiro, but humans are capable of making striking shapes too, such as the unmistakably bold Emiliano.
The birdlife in Brazil is especially impressive, with feathers reflecting every single colour of the rainbow. Whether you’re an amateur enthusiast or a serious birder, the Amazon Jungle is breathtaking in the variety of the species which live there. You’ll find the richest birding hotspots along with the very best birding guides in Latin America.
A simply enormous country, Brazil truly does have it all: vibrant wildlife, cosmopolitan cities and pristine wild landscapes. The Amazon Rainforest is Brazil’s most famous destination, and whilst this is undoubtedly an incredible place, there really is a lot more to see.
Think canoeing through mangrove forests, luxuriating on immaculate coastlines, exploring wetlands buzzing with wildlife, and visiting cities that burst with energy during carnival time. Here we collate our 10 favourite experiences.
Brazil is vast, known for its lively cities, heavenly beaches and glorious wildlife areas. We’ve put together a set of FAQs that cover the basic need-to-know tips when starting to plan your holiday. If you’d like more tailored advice, contact our Journeysmiths today and we’ll be happy to help.
Famed for its beautiful coastline and, of course, the Amazon Rainforest, Brazil is the Earth’s most biologically diverse country. Over 100,000 animal species are currently known, and with around 700 new ones discovered each year, this diversity is ever-increasing.
A trio of glorious wilderness areas - the lively, bustling Amazon Rainforest, The Pantanal’s labyrinth of pristine waterways and wetlands, and the vast, rolling savannah of the Cerrado - come together to make Brazil a hugely important conservation destination.
- Knowledge, Experience & Passion
Since 1990, we’ve been exploring our planet, discovering the world's finest properties and most reliable partners so that you too can experience the best of the wild world. - Logistical Expertise & Extraordinary Service
Our teams work together to take care of every last detail of your holiday, ensuring it runs like clockwork from beginning to end.
- Privacy and Discretion
Luxurious, remote properties and exclusive reserves in the wilderness guarantee maximum privacy, the essence of a Journeysmiths holiday. - Positive Impact
We ensure you are ‘Travelling Well’, with every journey we arrange benefitting the habitats, wildlife and people who live there in some way.
We are a boutique travel specialist. For over 25 years we have been creating luxury tailor-made holidays to megadiverse Latin America. Your time is precious and with a world to see, we understand the importance of getting it absolutely right for you, every time.We are a boutique travel specialist. For over 25 years we have been creating luxury tailor-made holidays to megadiverse Latin America. Your time is precious and with a world to see, we understand the importance of getting it absolutely right for you, every time.
If you’re seeking an active family holiday of natural wonders and vanilla sand beaches we recommend Costa Rica. Choose between Pacific and Caribbean beaches where turtles nest and the reefs abound with colourful fish. Rainforests cascade down mountainsides to the ocean.
Latin America offers some of the most unique and breathtaking accommodations, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in its diverse landscapes and cultures. These handpicked lodges and eco-retreats not only provide comfort but also embrace sustainability and local culture, offering an unforgettable escape.
Famed for its beautiful coastline and, of course, the Amazon Rainforest, Brazil is the Earth’s most biologically diverse country. Over 100,000 animal species are currently known, and with around 700 new ones discovered each year, this diversity is ever-increasing.
A trio of glorious wilderness areas - the lively, bustling Amazon Rainforest, The Pantanal’s labyrinth of pristine waterways and wetlands, and the vast, rolling savannah of the Cerrado - come together to make Brazil a hugely important conservation destination.
Brazil is vast, known for its lively cities, heavenly beaches and glorious wildlife areas. We’ve put together a set of FAQs that cover the basic need-to-know tips when starting to plan your holiday. If you’d like more tailored advice, contact our Journeysmiths today and we’ll be happy to help.
A simply enormous country, Brazil truly does have it all: vibrant wildlife, cosmopolitan cities and pristine wild landscapes. The Amazon Rainforest is Brazil’s most famous destination, and whilst this is undoubtedly an incredible place, there really is a lot more to see.
Think canoeing through mangrove forests, luxuriating on immaculate coastlines, exploring wetlands buzzing with wildlife, and visiting cities that burst with energy during carnival time. Here we collate our 10 favourite experiences.
We may use the term ‘travel trends’ but these destinations won't be crowded. Here we're showcasing the most stunning experiences to ignite your next Latin America holiday.
Each offers a unique blend of adventure and indulgence, so whether you're seeking a multi generational trip, a romantic couples getaway or a unique solo adventure, we have something special in store for everyone.
This experiential itinerary allows you to go deeper in some of Costa Rica's most spectacular regions. Embark on a hands-on conservation adventure, take to the ocean for a private yacht adventure, explore wildlife filled forests and contribute to the future of Costa Rica's sea turtle population.
We’ve created an exciting list of the most memorable things to do in the Galapagos Islands.
We’ve created an enticing list of the most memorable things to do in Ecuador.
To show you what’s possible, our Latin America travel experts have put together a list of their favourite Peruvian activities.
Are you feeling inspired to explore the oceans after watching Planet Earth Three?
We highlight the top ten must-do activities for your family to enjoy in Costa Rica.
If you’re looking for a place where you can embrace adventure, learn more about our planet’s incredible wildlife and truly connect to nature, Ecuador has it all.
We highlight the top ten must-do activities for your to enjoy in Costa Rica.
The birdlife in Brazil is especially impressive, with feathers reflecting every single colour of the rainbow. Whether you’re an amateur enthusiast or a serious birder, the Amazon Jungle is breathtaking in the variety of the species which live there. You’ll find the richest birding hotspots along with the very best birding guides in Latin America.
What kind of creatures actually live in the Amazon Basin, Colca Canyon, Lake Titicaca, and in the Sacred Valley of the Incas?
Everyone has heard of the Rio Carnival, which takes place each year just before Lent, but such festivities are by no means a Brazilian speciality. At Journeysmiths we have a particular sweet spot for the fiestas in Chile.
Treat your family to an extraordinary wildlife adventure holiday in the Galapagos and Ecuador. It’s a place you’ll likely visit just once so be sure to do it well. We have access to the finest yachts, lodges and expert guides. This way your family can visit remote islands in comfort and privacy encountering amazing wildlife.
If your young explorers are hungry for an adventure, look no further than Peru. The diverse landscapes range from the vibrant jungles of the Amazon Rainforest to the jagged peaks of the Andes Mountains. Needless to say, you’ll have the chance to experience the unique mountain top setting of mysterious Machu Picchu.
We’ve created a list of our favourite activities to give you an idea of what you can expect from a trip to Chile.
Set off on a captivating family adventure in Peru, where ancient wonders and vibrant culture await. From exploring the mystical Machu Picchu to navigating the Amazon rainforest, this itinerary promises unforgettable moments that will weave the rich tapestry of Peru into the fabric of your family's cherished memories.
Experience the unbelievable diversity of Chile, on an epic one month long adventure. From shimmering glaciers and aquamarine lakes, to jagged mountain peaks and mars-like deserts - immerse yourself in countless spectacular vistas, while enjoying the rich wildlife on offer.
Explore uncrowded, beautiful landscapes on a luxury holiday, journeying through Chile. The perfect destination for an unforgettable adventure, this volcano dotted country promises astounding wildlife, incredible scenery and memories lasting a lifetime.
Peru is the perfect place for an exhilarating adventure. Immerse yourself in thrilling activities, from trekking majestic peaks to exploring ancient ruins, for an adrenaline-fuelled experience.
Embark on an opulent Peruvian odyssey, indulging in breath taking landscapes, exclusive accommodations, and culturally immersive experiences.