1. Rio de Janeiro: Private Full-Day Highlights Tour
Visit Rio's top attractions on this exclusive private tour. Get picked up at your accommodation by your professional, English-speaking guide and your adventure starts by visiting Christ the Redeemer. Travel through a rainforest to reach it and then, after a photo at the awe-inspiring statue, head to visit the Maracanã Stadium, the main site of the 2014 FIFA World Cup and 2016 Rio Olympics. Stop at the Sambadrome where Rio’s Carnival competition takes place, and learn from your guide about Brazilian Carnival culture. Continue the tour through the historic center of Rio and stop at Colombo Bakery, open since 1894. It still preserves its Art Nouveau décor (food and drinks available to purchase), and is closed on Sundays. Next, visit The Metropolitan Cathedral of Rio de Janeiro, a masterpiece of modern art that takes influence from Mayan pyramids. Drive past the bohemian Lapa district, where the monumental aqueduct was built in the mid 18th century to transport water from the Carioca River to the city center. Stop and explore the Selaron Staircase – 215 colorful steps, one of the most fascinating and original staircases in the world. Conclude your trip visiting the Sugarloaf mountain, taking the cable car from Urca hill up to the top. This unique rock formation also offers a fun way to reach its summit, enjoying views out over Rio and its surroundings. At the end of your tour, enjoy comfortable transportation back to your accommodation.