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Party and nightlife
Relax
Nature and adventure
City and cultures
Monuments and history
Physical effort
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Itinerary

Ready to live your best life between swaying palms, pulsating parties, and pure paradise? Begin in São Paulo, the country’s thriving cultural powerhouse, where sleek skyscrapers blend with colorful street art and buzzing nightlife. From there, set off to the charming colonial town of Paraty, wandering its cobblestone streets, sipping freshly brewed Brazilian coffee, and marvelling at vibrant historic façades.

Next, unwind on the unspoiled shores of Ilha Grande, where crystal-clear waters beckon you to swim among tropical fish and hike through emerald-green jungles alive with exotic wildlife. Feel the gentle ocean breeze as you lounge on golden sands, savour traditional feijoada by the sea, and watch breathtaking sunsets over the Atlantic horizon.

And then—Rio de Janeiro. As the rhythm of samba fills every street and the city prepares to explode in colour, you’ll immerse yourself in the world-renowned Rio Carnival. Dance alongside dazzling samba schools, don feathered headdresses, and join the street parties that transform neighbourhoods like Lapa and Santa Teresa into a nonstop festival. Marvel at the spectacle of elaborate floats, glittering costumes, and infectious energy that make the Carnival an absolute bucket-list event.

You'll conquer Sugarloaf's heights, sip caipirinhas on the sand, and lose yourself in samba-fuelled nights. This is Brazil in its rawest, most vibrant form—with the Rio Carnival as a breathtaking finale.

A map showing a travel route from Sao Paulo to Rio de Janeiro, with start and end points marked.

São Paulo Welcome

Our adventure begins in the vibrant metropolis of São Paulo. After checking into our hotel and freshening up, we’ll officially kick off the tour at 5 PM with a welcome meeting to get to know our group and Group Leader. Then it’s time to dive into the city’s buzzing nightlife or grab our first caipirinha together! This is just the beginning, and the energy is already electric.

Exploring São Paulo & Night Bus to Paraty

We spend the day getting to know the real São Paulo. From the colorful murals of Beco do Batman to the bustling Avenida Paulista, we’ll explore the city's coolest corners. Expect a deep dive into local culture, art, and the tastiest street food. As the sun sets, we hop on our night bus and head toward the coast—next stop: Paraty, where colonial charm and crystal-clear waters await.

Beach Vibes & Boat Adventures

Good morning, paradise!

We arrive in Paraty, one of Brazil’s most picturesque towns. Cobbled streets, colorful buildings, and a laid-back vibe make it feel like time stands still here. But we’re not staying still for long—today we set sail on a schooner boat tour around the bay, stopping at hidden beaches and snorkeling spots. Think tropical vibes, turquoise water, and sunshine for days. In the evening, we stroll the town’s lantern-lit streets and soak it all in.

This is Beach Life

After a relaxed breakfast, we travel to Angra dos Reis and catch the ferry to our next destination: Ilha Grande. This car-free island is a natural wonderland full of lush jungle, sandy beaches, and ocean adventures. Once we arrive, we settle into our pousada and head straight to the beach. The rest of the day is all about slowing down and soaking up the island vibes. Sunset views and island breezes are guaranteed.

Sun, Sea & Chill

Today, we set off on a boat tour to some of Ilha Grande’s most stunning spots. We'll visit Lagoa Verde, Lagoa Azul and some amazing beaches around Ilha Grande. Expect turquoise seas, white sands, and plenty of time for relaxing. Don’t forget your sunscreen and waterproof camera!

An aerial view of a coastal city illuminated at dusk, with a bay full of boats and mountains silhouetted in the background.

Sunrise Trek & Travel to Rio de Janeiro

Wake up early for an optional hike through lush forest trails to Praia Lopes Mendes, a picture-perfect beach often ranked among the best in the world. In the afternoon, we make our way to Rio de Janeiro by boat and van. Once we arrive, we settle into our hotel in this vibrant city where samba, surf, and sunsets rule.

The Christ the Redeemer statue stands on a mountain peak overlooking a coastal city, Sugarloaf Mountain, and a bay filled with boats.

Christ the Redeemer & Sugarloaf Magic

We kick off our time in Rio with a visit to two of its most legendary landmarks: Christ the Redeemer Statue and Sugarloaf Mountain. These must-see sights offer unforgettable views over the city’s mountains, beaches, and favelas. Cameras ready—this is one of the most awe-inspiring days of the trip.

We get swept away by the party!

We are so ready to get swept up in Rio Carnival: it is the most famous in the world and every year millions of travellers come here to see it with their own eyes! The festive air reaches every neighbourhood of the city, the so-called blocos, which are an integral part of the celebrations. The locals in these neighbourhoods keep the tradition alive, taking to the streets and parading in costume, dancing and playing the music they compose themselves. One thing is certain: sequins, extravagant make-up and bright colours are welcome here, so it's your chance to be bold!

An elevated view of a nighttime parade with a large group of performers in elaborate yellow costumes and headdresses.

The most beautiful show in all of Brazil!

The party never ends in Rio: Carnival is lived and celebrated all day and all night, so let's get ready for another day of partying - caipirinha in hand! Today is even more special because we are off to the Sambodromo to admire the parade of Brazil's most important samba schools: the floats are breathtaking and the dancers incredible and engaging!

A WeRoad group trip stands silhouetted by a lake, watching the sunset behind mountains and a city.

Relaxation or more partying?

Today is Mardi Gras, the last day of Carnival celebrations, and the city is still partying. After the two days just gone, we can decide whether to continue dancing to samba rhythms in the streets of Rio, or to take it easy and spend some time on the beach - Copacabana is a strong draw! Of course, it's not every day you get to be in Brazil during the days of carnival, so even if we spend the day enjoying the sun and the sea... tonight we go out to celebrate some more! After the farewell dinner, let's enjoy the last night of Carnival and join the party!

Check out and goodbye

Hard to believe after all these incredible memories, however, unfortunately we have reached the end of our journey: it was full of emotions and moments we will never forget. Say goodbye to our fellow travellers. Until the next WeRoad adventure!

What's included

  • 9 nights accommodation in shared rooms with a private bathroom

  • All breakfasts

  • Admission to the Sambodromo to witness one of the world's most unique events: the Rio Carnival

  • Private transfer from Sao Paolo Hotel to Sao Paolo Bus Terminal

  • Overnight bus from Sao Paolo to Paraty

  • Medical and baggage insurance - (coverage limits by destination country/region - €10,000 Italy, €20,000 Europe, €30,000 World, €50,000 USA/Canada)

What's not included

Roundtrip flight to/from destination
  • Food and beverages when not specified
  • Tourism taxes for Ilha Grande - approx. USD22

  • All the extras you'll be able to fit in your backpack
  • Anything not mentioned in the "What's included" section

Optional activities

Please see below extra optional activities that you can experience during your trip. Your Group Leader will be happy to assist with organizing these activities for the group. Availability may vary depending on location and group preferences.

Please note these activities are provided by third party suppliers and liability rests exclusively with these third party suppliers.

  • Tijuca Hiking Tour - approx. USD69

  • Pedra Bonita Hiking Tour - approx. USD69

  • Dois Irmaos Hill Ride + Favela Tour - approx. USD69

  • Pedra da Gavea tour - approx. USD82

Additional info

Learn more about accommodation, transport, and other useful travel information.
  • Typical hostels, hotels, apartments

  • Local vehicles where possible and private transfers for less traveled routes

  • Passport

    Please note: you need to upload a copy of your passport into your MyWeRoad account at least 45 days before departure. If you book to depart within the next 45 days or less, you need to upload a copy of your passport immediately after you have made your booking.

    This information is essential to securing the booking of your trip and all the services included.

  • Info on private roomsShow all details

Why WeRoad

  • Small groups, on average 11 people

  • Move or change your trip for free up to 31 days before departure

  • Book with $ 0. Pay the $ 100 deposit only once the trip is confirmed

The Group Leaders

Our Group Leaders are chosen because they’re people just like you: passionate travelers who share the experience authentically, while having the skills to take care of the organisation, and help you get the most out of every moment of the trip.

Find your flight

For this trip, we recommend arriving and departing from these airports.

ArrivalSão Paulo (SAO)
ReturnRio de Janeiro (RIO)
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WeRoadX

This is a WeRoadX

A trip designed and created entirely by an experienced WeRoad Travel Group Leader.

This is a trip designed and created entirely by an experienced WeRoad Travel Group Leader. They organise the whole trip: from defining the itinerary to selecting accommodation and on-site experiences. On the WeRoad website you can book the trip and manage it in MyWeRoad, just like any other WeRoad.

FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions

About this trip

About WeRoad

About Brazil

From
$ 3,571
Book with $ 100
Free trip change
Interest-free installments