Amazon & the Heart of Brazil

28 Nights - from $1647

Brazil is a vast country, with a huge amount to offer the traveller, and on this trip we'll get right to its heart. Rio is our starting point, soaking up the energy and vitality of this exciting city before we head inland to the old colonial city of Ouro Preto. From Central Brazil we head into the wilds, going on safari in the wetlands of the Pantanal and visiting the ranches of the Mato Grosso. We travel into the Amazon Jungle on a boat trip that takes us up remote tributaries of this mighty river, staying in villages en route and finally ending in Manaus.

This is not your everyday journey, a fantastic trip that takes you deep into the heart of Brazil. From the incredible beaches and sights of Rio, we travel inland into the hills. To the homes of gold and quartz miners, to areas of stunning landscape that few visit and even less have time to explore. The Brazilian wetlands and rivers feature highly in this itinerary and exploration can find you on foot, on a horse or paddling a canoe. Searching for anaconda, looking for caiman or watching dolphins, turtles or hundreds of bird species. Whichever form of adventure it may be it is going to be a good one, if not a bit wet at times. Travelling the vast waterways of the Amazon in traditional houseboats and ferries is an experience that you will never forget. From slinging up your hammock to paddling a canoe, this is the best way to get to the heart of Brazil.

Itinerary:

Nights 1 - 4: Brazil Time to explore unique colonial Ouro Preto and its architectural heritage Discover the vibrant city of Rio de Janeiro Nights 5 -10: Central Brazil 2 full days to explore and hike the remote and beautiful Chapada Dos Veadeiros National Park Overland to the futuristic city of Brasilia Nights 11 - 16: Wildlands & Wetlands 2 day safari exploring the backwaters and ranches of the Brazilian Pantanal Journey through the heart of Brazil to the Pantanal Nights 17 - 23: Southern Amazon Overland to Puerto Velho to start our Amazon jungle adventure 4 day local river journey along the Rio Madeira between Puerto Velho and Manaus Nights 24 - 28: River Amazon Explore the unique jungle city of Manaus and its colourful markets Discover the wildlife and local cultures of the Amazon jungle Return to Manaus 3 day excursion into the jungle from Manaus

Optional Extras

• Head underground into the gold mines of Ouro Preto
• Guided tour of the impressive Teatro Amazones in Manaus
• Guided tour of Manaus, the jungle city

Accommodation: Campsites, wildcamps, hammocks, hostels/hotels(55% camping, 45% hotels)
Meals: All food is covered by the kitty while camping.
Vehicles: Overland expedition vehicle, Amazon houseboats and ferries
Crew and Guides: 2 crew, local guides as necessary
Notes: Kitty does not cover food while staying in hotels and hostels.
Reverse Itinerary: trips that run in reverse are specified with an 'R' in the dates and prices table below.