Welcome to Belem! Today there is an important group meeting at 18:00hrs please meet at the Hotel reception. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy Belem.Border information: If you are starting your trip in Belem, enter Brazil at Val De Cans Air port (IATA code BEL)
Today is yours to enjoy the port town of Belem, one of the first Portuguese settlements. Explore the historic centre which houses various museums and cathedrals and be sure to visit the Ver-o-Paso Market, considered the largest in South America, with its stalls scattered with Amazonian fish, baskets of Acai, herbs and crafts.
Our first drive brings us to the UNESCO world heritage site of Sao Luis, the only city of Brazil to be founded by the French. Depending upon the ferry we may choose instead to spend the night in neighbouring Alcântara.
Sao Luis is full of interesting museums, the historic centre houses beautiful, pastel coloured colonial mansions. You can take a boat trip to the more laid back town of Alcântara, you may spot the Scarlet ibis, or guaras on your way.
Today we will drive to the town of Barreirinhas, gateway to the Lencois Maranhenses National Park.
Today we will head out in motor boats through the Preguica River, to the protected area of Pequenos Lencois, along the way, we will visit a small fishing village, take a short walk & enjoy the views of the dunes and the Preguicas River.
Today we will enjoy another day in the Lencois Maranhenses NP. Seen from the sky, the meeting point of the Rio Parnaiba and the Atlantic Ocean looks like a giant puzzle, made up of 85 tiny islands.
Today we drive to the laid back beach town of Jericoacoara, or 'Jeri' as it's affectionately known. Access to Jericoacoara is only by 4WD through unpaved tracks through the dunes, making it a wonderfully hard to reach place.
Jericoacoara is a magical place to spend some time; wander the sandy lanes, enjoy the sunset with a caipirinha on the dunes whilst the locals practise their Capoeira, head out on a quad bike adventure to remote lagoons where you can take a dip, laze in a hammock and enjoy a seafood lunch. Jeri is also one of the prime spots for surfing, windsurfing and kite surfing!
Drive day to the pretty seaside town of Canoa Quebrada.
Huge pinkish sand dunes dominate the area of Canoa Quebrada, it's a fantastic spot to kick back and relax or for the more energetic, take an evening horseback ride along the beach or head out on a beach buggy. There's a laid back small town to explore too with lots of great cafes and bars.
Today we'll head south the the cool seaside town of Praia da Pipa.
We have a full day drive to the stunning colonial gem of Olinda, considered one of Brazil's most important historic sites.
Explore the beautiful town of Olinda, once known as 'small Lisbon' and the richest town in Brazil. Enjoy wandering the cobblestone streets, check out some of the exquisite churches and definitely make time for lunch at Alto de Se, to enjoy the views!
Today we head south along the coast, into the state of Bahia and to the town of Aracaju, where we can chill out in one of the town's seafront eateries, listen to some traditional forró music and enjoy the fresh crabs that the town is known for.
Today we complete the journey to the vibrant city of Salvador, known around the world for its Carnival festivities. Salvador is home to over 300 churches, the historic centre is recognised by UNESCO and full of interesting architecture, brightly coloured buildings and cobblestone streets. It's an excellent place to witness the African culture in music and dance and enjoy some delicious street food.
Today is the final day for passengers finishing their trip in Salvador. Please note there is no accommodation included on the trip tonight – please contact your Sales Agent if you are interested in booking an extra night of accommodation or if you would like to join the journey south to Rio de Janeiro.Border Information: if you are finishing your trip in Salvador, you will most likely exit Brazil at Deputado Luís Eduardo Magalhães International Airport (IATA code: SSA)