zCultures of Brazil

Check in to the enchanting Villa Bahia, a deluxe boutique hotel set in two splendidly restored Colonial-era mansions in the heart of the Old City.

This morning’s private city tour showcases the fascinating history of Salvador, Brazil’s first capital from 1549 to 1763. See the famous Barra Lighthouse, perched at the spot where the Atlantic Ocean meets the waters of All Saints Bay. Then drive along elegant tree-lined avenues to Pelourinho for a guided walking tour through the charming narrow streets of the Old City. Graced with fine buildings in pastel shades and handsome town squares, this is the largest collection of intact Colonial architecture in South America! Your sightseeing also includes the esteemed gallery of Pierre Verger’s mid 19th-century photography and Sao Francisco with its exuberant gold-leafed Baroque interior.  Meals B

Day 3 – Life, Art & Culture in Salvador
Personalize your exploration of Salvador and delve into the region’s rich African heritage and vibrant contemporary arts scene with your choice of a guided half-day tour:

+ Vida Baiana - Look into Bahian Life: This fascinating tour begins in the historic Lower City and offers an authentic look into local Bahian life. Walk through the pleasant residential district of Barra and then on to the city’s main lake to see the unusual Floating Statues of the Orixas. After exploring the busting Sao Joaquim Market, stop by the city’s most famous ice cream parlor where a wide variety of flavors include traditional vanilla and chocolate as well as exotic options like corn, Caipirinha and exotic tropical fruits. Then visit the famous Bonfim Church before heading up to the Mont Serrat district for lovely views of the city and bay.
+ Art Galleries of Salvador: Like other great sea ports around the world, Salvador through the ages has witnessed a wide range of influences from different regions across the globe including Africa, Europe the Far East and other countries of Latin America. Our exclusive half-day walking tour will explore the impact of these historic influences on Salvador’s vibrant visual arts scene. You’ll explore several art galleries carefully chosen to reflect a variety of different media, styles and artists.
+ Arte Consciente Community Development Project: Experience a completely different facet of Salvador, one rarely glimpsed by other visitors. This half-day tour takes you to Saramandaia, an impoverished community in Salvador, to meet with four pioneering young men who founded Arte Consciente, an innovative grassroots social development project which uses the visual arts, boxing, music and circus arts to help and empower community residents.
+ Art in Public Spaces: Designed to showcase the art and daily life of historic Salvador, this private tour begins with the Orixás of the Candomblé Pantheon: Here along the shores of the city’s main lake, you’ll marvel at the extraordinary metal sculptures of Tati Moreno rising from the calm lake waters and sheltered in the cool shade of banyan trees along the water’s edge. Then explore the charming Itapagipe Peninsula, where fishermen and other local residents go about their daily life as they have for generations. Visit the famous Bonfim Church before heading up to the Mont Serrat district for panoramic views panoramic views over the city and bay.

Meals B

This morning’s included flight brings you into the southeastern state of Minas Gerais. Upon arrival, your personal car and guide will take you to Inhotim for a privately guided tour through this spectacular 5,000-acre complex of lush botanical gardens and more than two dozen dazzling pavilions devoted to contemporary art. Continue on to Ouro Preto and check in to the intimate Solar do Rosario Hotel, situated in a beautifully restored 19th-century home. Meals B

Fueled by the incredible wealth of the gold rush that began here in 1698, Ouro Preto grew rapidly into a grand city filled with extravagant Baroque architecture, much of which has been splendidly preserved. Indeed, many consider Ouro Preto to be the most fully intact Colonial-era town of the 18th century! Your tour of this beautiful city showcases its magnificent architecture and also includes the handsome Church of St. Francis and the unique Museum of Mineralogy. Meals B

Depart your hotel this morning and visit the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Congonhas c, a spectacular Baroque basilica built in the 18th century and adorned with a magnificent Rococo interior of Italian inspiration. Its outdoor stairway decorated with statues of the prophets and seven chapels illustrating the Stations of the Cross are considered masterpieces of Baroque art. Continue to Belo Horizonte for a city tour including Liberty Square and the bustling Central Market. Then transfer to the airport for your included flight to Rio. Upon arrival, you’ll be met and escorted by private car to the Copacabana Palace, a luxury landmark with a privileged location overlooking world-famous Copacabana Beach.  Meals B

This morning’s private city tour begins atop Mt. Corcovado c with its lush Carioca landscapes nestled between mountain and sea, magnificent views over the city and bay, and the towering statue of Christ the Redeemer. Then to complement your in-depth week-long exploration of Brazil’s history, we’ve designed your special city tour to also include the historic, lesser-visited landmarks of downtown including the Metropolitan Cathedral, Opera House and November 15 Square. End your touring on a high note with lunch at Confeitaria Colombo, a popular Rio icon with an expansive buffet, fabulous painted ceilings and a piano player to entertain you and your fellow diners! Return to your hotel and enjoy the balance of your afternoon and evening at leisure.  Meals B,L

This entire day is yours to enjoy as you wish. Meals B

Your tour with us ends this morning after breakfast.  Meals B