Ports of Call
Rio de Janeiro Package - Rio City & Parati (6D/5N)

Rio De Janeiro, Brazil
When one thinks of Rio de Janeiro, the images that instantly spring to mind are of beautiful beaches with gorgeous suntanned bodies, carnival and soccer (Brazilian football), to list but a few. These are all an integral part of Rio's exuberant culture and help to make this state one of the most exciting and interesting places to visit in Brazil. Rio has to be one of the most beautiful cities in the world and is blessed with stunning natural aspects and a year-round pleasant climate. Uniquely situated on a narrow strip of land between the green mountains and the deep blue sea it is surrounded by granite based mountains, coves and white sand beaches. The most famous landmark is the Pao de Acucar (Sugar Loaf), which has wonderful views of the city, the bay, and the Corcovado (the statue of Christ).

Paraty, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
This colonial jewel in the State of Rio de Janeiro was founded in 1660, and in the 18th century gained fame and wealth as a result of the discovery of gold and diamonds in the neighboring state of Minas Gerais. The precious stones were transported by land to Paraty and from there either on to Rio or by ship to Portugal. For more than a century, Paraty flourished and its citizens prospered. Opulent mansions and large estates attested to the wealth of its residents. After Brazil declared independence in 1822, the export of gold to Portugal ceased and Paraty lost its strategic position and was forgotten. Its colonial heritage was consequently preserved and this beautiful colonial city was declared a national monument by UNESCO in 1966. Today Paraty's architectural charm combined with an array of fine restaurants, bars, handicraft shops, boutiques and art galleries attract visitors from all over the world. In addition to its cultural marvels, Paraty has many natural beauties including beaches with pirate coves, waterfalls, national parks and numerous islands dotted along the coast.