Hey friends! I want you to join me for an unforgettable 5-night stay in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil! We’ll dive into the city’s vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and infectious energy, staying close to the heart of Rio so we’re never far from the action.
I’ve handpicked some of my favorite experiences to share with you—from iconic landmarks to colorful streets of Little Africa, and the rhythm-filled nights of Lapa. We’ll explore historic gems, breathtaking viewpoints, and hidden spots that only locals know, all while leaving plenty of time for you to wander and soak up Rio your own way.
Get ready for a journey packed with sunsets on a private yacht, samba classes, delicious Brazilian cuisine, and the infectious rhythms of the city. This is your chance to experience Rio like never before—full of culture, flavor, adventure, and the vibrant soul of Brazil. I can’t wait to share this unforgettable adventure with you!
Spend 6 days/5 nights at Arena Leme Hotel, steps away from Copacabana beach embodying Rio's atmosphere.
Let our team greet and escort you from the airport to the hotel. Please arrive at Galeão International Airport on December 28th between 2–5 PM (local time) to ensure a smooth arrival.
Start each morning with complimentary breakfast of local flavors.
Experience Christ the Redeemer with included train tickets and private transport. Enjoy a guided visit, breathtaking views of Rio, and seamless, stress-free exploration of this iconic landmark.
Explore Rio’s flavors on a private food tour—tropical fruits, Brazilian snacks, Amazonian dishes, artisanal caipirinhas, and sweet treats in Lapa and Centro.
Discover the roots of Afro-Brazilian culture. Walk through the area known as Little Africa and learn about the traditions and history that shaped Rio’s identity.
Visit the iconic Selarón Steps, featured in Pharrell’s music video Beautiful, where over 2,000 vibrant tiles from around the world create a dazzling, ever-changing mosaic backdrop.
Experience Rio’s nightlife in Lapa with a fun samba class at the famous Rio Scenarium.
See Rio from the water on a private yacht cruise. Relax on board with music, stunning coastal views, and plenty of space to swim, socialize, and enjoy the unique atmosphere of the city from the sea.
Enjoy gourmet snacks and a selection of drinks, including alcoholic beverages, fully included during your private yacht experience.
Enjoy a first welcome dinner at the hotel as you settle into your Brazil accommodations
Say goodbye to Brazil with a finale Stakehouse dinner
Savor a delicious lunch in Little Africa, immersing yourself in the vibrant flavors and lively spirit of Rio’s rich African-Brazilian heritage.
Dine at the iconic Rio Scenarium, enjoying flavorful dishes and four hours of drinks in a lively, unforgettable Rio nightlife setting.
While we cannot provide flights, we will provide a round trip airport transportation service. Please plan to arrive at Rio Airport (GIG) between 2-5 PM and depart from Rio Airport (GIG) after 1PM.
We require that all guests purchase travel insurance as all payments are non-refundable and cancellations fees apply. We recommend World Nomads or SquareMouth.
Although the hotel offers daily breakfast, we encourage guests to immerse themselves in Rio's local restaurants for most lunches and dinners on the trip.
It is required that all US citizens have a travel visas to travel to Brazil. Please ensure you have completed your visa application before your arrival day from https://brazil.vfsevisa.com/
Day 1 | December 28th
Airport Arrivals
We’re kicking off this adventure in style. After landing at Rio de Janeiro–Galeão International Airport (GIG), collect your bags and make your way through arrivals before meeting your driver for a private transfer to the hotel. Sit back and enjoy the ride as you get your first glimpse of Rio—your home base for the days ahead.
Relax and Dinner at the hotel restaurant
To begin your time in Rio, we suggest gathering for a relaxed welcome dinner at the hotel restaurant—a perfect opportunity to meet your fellow travelers and ease into the experience ahead.
Day 2 | December 29th
Early Morning Pickup
Your day starts bright and early with a 7:00 AM pick-up from your hotel to make the most of Rio’s wonders. We recommend having a light breakfast before departure to fuel your adventure.
Morning – Christ the Redeemer & Selarón Steps
Experience the very best of Rio in just one morning! Stand in awe before the majestic Christ the Redeemer and capture the vibrant colors of the world-famous Selarón Steps.
With a bilingual guide and private air-conditioned transportation, your day is seamless, comfortable, and filled with unforgettable photo opportunities.
1:00 PM - Private Rio Culinary Experience
Discover Rio de Janeiro through an exclusive private food tour featuring a curated selection of the city’s most authentic flavors and hidden culinary gems.
Enjoy tropical fruit tastings and beloved Brazilian snacks, visit a unique Amazonian restaurant, and experience a traditional Brazilian-Portuguese meal in the vibrant neighborhood of Lapa. The journey continues with artisanal caipirinhas before concluding in Centro with local petiscos and a sweet treat to finish.
5:00-6:00 PM Return to Hotel
After the experience, return to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the evening at your own pace. Take the opportunity to relax, explore Rio’s vibrant nightlife, or enjoy dinner at one of the city’s many excellent restaurants. The night is yours to discover more of Rio as you wish.
Day 3 | December 30th
9:00 AM – Meet Your Guide at the Hotel
Start your day immersed in history and culture. Your bilingual guide, accredited by the Ministry of Tourism, will meet you at your hotel and take you on a fascinating journey through Little Africa, a vibrant part of Rio with deep cultural roots.
9:15 AM – Explore the Heart of Little Africa
Step into the streets that inspired the legendary artist and samba dancer Heitor dos Prazeres at the turn of the 20th century. Little Africa is more than a neighborhood—it’s a living tribute to African heritage in Rio. Discover historic buildings, bustling squares, and landmarks that shaped Brazilian music, dance, and cultural identity.
Learn how this area influenced samba schools, popular songs, and local stories, and see why the expression “Pequena África” became synonymous with Rio’s African legacy. Your guide will bring these stories to life, showing how the African presence left a lasting mark on the city and the nation.
11:00 AM – Lunch in Little Africa
After exploring, enjoy a flavorful lunch in the heart of Little Africa. Relish a starter, main dish, and dessert, all carefully prepared to highlight Brazilian flavors. (Beverages not included, but the meal will leave you fully satisfied!)
12:00 PM – End of Tour
Your private transportation will return you to your hotel, leaving you inspired and enriched by the sights, sounds, and history of one of Rio’s most culturally significant neighborhoods. Enjoy some free time and get ready for an energetic evening of samba and dining in Lapa.
7:30 PM – Samba Class at Rio Scenarium
Your private transportation and bilingual guide will pick you up for an evening in Lapa, the city’s vibrant nightlife hub. Start your night with a 1-hour private samba class at the iconic Rio Scenarium. Learn the moves, feel the rhythm, and dive into the energy that has made samba the soul of Brazil. Whether you’re a beginner or a dance enthusiast, this class will have you moving and smiling in no time.
9:00 PM – Dinner at Rio Scenarium
After dancing, sit down to a delicious dinner in the same historic venue. Your meal includes starter + main dish, offering a taste of authentic Brazilian cuisine in a lively, atmospheric setting.
Midnight – Return to Your Hotel
Your guide will ensure you safely return to your hotel by midnight. For the ladies, your guide can coordinate with the driver to call ahead and make sure everything runs smoothly.
Day 4 | December 31st
Morning Breakfast at Hotel
If you’re up early, head down to the hotel’s complimentary breakfast and fuel up for what's about to be an incredible day.
10AM – Meet Your Guide & Board the Yacht
Experience a new breathtaking perspective of Rio from the water! Your private, air-conditioned transportation will bring you to the marina, where your luxurious yacht awaits. A bilingual guide will accompany you, ensuring your journey is both comfortable and unforgettable.
Your yacht is designed for comfort and style, with spacious indoor and outdoor areas, a full kitchen, lounge, sun-drenched bow, and flybridge solarium. Onboard amenities include a DJ, barman, coolers with filtered ice, glassware, floating mats, noodles, and a barbecue grill. Food and beverages are included, so you can relax, indulge, and fully enjoy this unforgettable journey on the water.
After 4PM - Ring in the New Year, Rio Style
After your sailing experience, the evening is yours to celebrate the arrival of the New Year in Rio. Whether you choose a festive dinner, lively parties, or join the iconic celebrations along the beach, the city comes alive with music, fireworks, and an unforgettable atmosphere.
Day 5 | January 1st
6:30-10:00 AM: Morning Breakfast at Hotel
Taylor has shown you some of her favorite spots in Rio, but now it’s time to explore the city your way! First, fuel up with a delicious breakfast at the hotel’s complimentary breakfast (open 6:30 AM – 10:00 AM) to prepare for a day filled with adventure.
Free Day – Explore Rio at Your Own Pace
Today is all yours to enjoy Rio de Janeiro exactly the way you want. Lounge on the famous Copacabana or Ipanema beaches, wander the colorful streets of Santa Teresa, browse local markets, or discover hidden gems off the beaten path. Take this opportunity to immerse yourself in the city’s culture, flavors, and vibrant energy—your day, your adventure.
Day 6 | January 2nd
6:30-9:00 AM: Morning Breakfast at Hotel
It’s your final morning in Brazil, and while this week may have flown by, I hope it’s been unforgettable. Before heading out, take a moment to enjoy one last complimentary breakfast at the hotel and soak in the last bit of Rio's magic.
Meet at 10:00 AM at Hotel Lobby
A complimentary shuttle will take you to Rio de Janeiro–Galeão International Airport (GIG) for your return flight home.
