What you'll do on day 2
- After a delicious tropical breakfast at the hotel, you’ll set out on an excursion to see the world-famous Christ the Redeemer statue atop Corcovado Mountain. A specially designed train will take you from the mountain’s base along a winding path through the magical Tijuca Forest, where you might spot some of Rio’s charming tropical inhabitants such as toucans, monkeys, and armadillos.
- At the summit of Corcovado, 700 meters above sea level, proudly stands the iconic 38-meter-tall statue of Christ the Redeemer — a symbol recognized around the globe. Yet it’s not just the statue that will take your breath away — from this height, you’ll enjoy a stunning panoramic view of the entire city: the vast expanse of Guanabara Bay, the Maracanã Stadium, the Sugarloaf Mountain, Copacabana, Ipanema, and Gávea Mountain — all laid out before you.
- Lunch will be served at a local restaurant.
- Next, you’ll continue to the historic center of the city. Visit the Arches of Lapa, built in 1732 as an aqueduct that once carried water from the Carioca River to the city center, and the famous Selarón Steps, covered in vibrant mosaics collected from all over the world. You’ll see the Municipal Theater, designed by top European artists and inspired by the Paris Opera House, and finally, the unique Rio Cathedral, which can accommodate up to 20,000 people.
- You will also visit the Samba City, a specially designed complex of warehouses used by Rio’s most famous samba schools for building and storing the elaborate parade floats and costumes. Your guide will reveal secrets usually seen only during Carnival — the process of designing and constructing the floats and costumes. Step into the colorful exhibition hall to learn about the history of samba and Carnival through images and videos. Immerse yourself in the festive spirit by trying on an authentic Carnival costume for photos, learn the basic samba steps with an expert, and finish your tour by tasting the “flavor of samba” — a classic Brazilian caipirinha cocktail.
- Dinner at the hotel