La Paz To Rio de Janeiro Reverse
20 days - from $3545
An overland journey into the very heart of South America starting on the Atlantic coast in Rio de Janeiro, after the world famous Rio Carnivale, and ending in the lofty heights of La Paz – the world’s highest city.
Nothing quite compares with the Rio Carnivale. This is considered to be the world’s biggest party and even after you arrive in the tranquillity of the Atlantic rainforest 1500 kilometres south of Rio you will still be able to close your eyes and conjure up the sound and beat of samba. From Curitiba we take a train trip through the superb Atlantic rainforest and enjoy a beautiful, short trek along the Colonial Itupava Trail and visit world heritage listed Superagui National Park. Next stop is the mighty Iguazu Falls on the border with Argentina after which we turn to the northwest and make our way up into the heart of the continent. The beautiful town of Bonito is set in a pristine environment of rivers, forests and caves and is a centre for some great outdoor activities. Further on we explore the vast aquatic park that is the Pantanal. We cross the Bolivian border near Corumba and join the train travelling through frontier territory to Santa Cruz. Our next stop is Sucre, the political capital of La Paz and one of the country’s oldest and prettiest colonial cities. And finally we come to La Paz, nestled in a canyon high up in the Altiplano (high plains).
Highlights
- Check out La Paz (slowly)
- Chewing coca, Bolivia
- Eat llama in La Paz
- Sucre
- Witches’ Market, La Paz
- Beach out on Honey Island
- Catch the Serra Verde Express
- Choose your adventure in Bonito
- Christ on Corcovado, Rio
- Iguacu Falls
- Learn Samba in Rio
- Sip on cachaça cocktails in Rio
- Spot jaguars in the Pantanal
- Take in sunset atop Sugar Loaf Mountain
Itinerary:
Day 1: Rio de Janeiro2-3: Rio de Janeiro4-5: Paranagua & Honey Island6: Atlantic Rainforest7-8: Iguazu9-10: Bonito11-12: Pantanal13-14: Santa Cruz15-17: Potosi & Sucre18-19: La Paz20: La Paz
What's It Like?
Gecko's adventures offer authentic experiences and a genuine alternative to backpacking. Our trips are designed for younger travelers on a budget but do include the entrance fees to the ‘must see’ sights while not wasting your money on unnecessary frills. Itineraries utilize public transport and basic twin share accommodations in small locally owned hotels, the occasional multi-share, or simply floor space in a jungle or village hut. Many trips involve some physical activity, the occasional long traveling day and you will need to carry your own bags. On camping trips, meals are freshly prepared by our camp cook, but expect to put up and take down your tent, and assist with camp chores. On all trips we only use local tour leaders who are passionate about their homeland. This is travel, grassroots style - basic but rewarding.
Included: An experienced local leader in Brazil and Bolivia and there will be the services of local guides at some sites. All transport, accommodation, sightseeing and meals as indicated.
Not Included: International flights, arrival and departure transfers, departure and airport taxes, visas, all other meals, entrance to Sugarloaf, all optional tours or activities during free time, transfers outside of the tour program, travel insurance, tips and items of a personal nature.
Meals: 15 breakfasts
EquipmentIncluded: 30 Jul 10
Valid From: 31 Dec 69
Valid Until: 31 Dec 69
Notes: A reasonable level of fitness is beneficial for this holiday and you should be in good health. The trek along the Itupava Colonial Trail in Brazil is not particularly difficult; however you will be required to carry sufficient clothing and personal effects for three days until returning to Curitiba.
Starts/Ends: Rio de Janeiro to La Paz
Trip Reference: GSLRR
