Chapada Diamantina & Amazon Trek

Upon arrival, your private transfer will take you to your hotel. Salvador ties together the vibrant Portuguese and African history and cultures. Located on Brazil’s northeastern coast, Salvador da Bahia is considered the heartbeat and jewel of Brazil’s Afro-Brazilian heritage.

Tonight, prepare to be enchanted by the charisma and vivacity of Bahia’s nightlife in Salvador da Bahia. As the heart and crown jewel of Brazil’s Afro-Brazilian heritage, this city pulsates with cultural riches that remain vivid and vibrant. Your evening begins with a sumptuous dinner, but the Folkloric Show will truly ignite your senses.

A mesmerizing display of traditional dances from the region unfolds before you, including the rhythmic allure of Samba, the captivating Puxada de rede, the energetic Maculele, the graceful Capoeira, and the spiritual elegance of Orixa. These dances are a testament to the enduring spirit of Bahia’s cultural traditions. After this captivating performance, our transfer will whisk you back to your hotel, leaving you with lasting memories of a night filled with music, rhythm, and the soul of Bahia.

Meals (D)

The tour goes through the squares and narrow streets lined with Salvador’s characteristic colorful colonial buildings, to the Pelourinho. Situated at the heart of the city you’ll see the colorful, colonial charm of Salvador at its best and experience why the city is known as the Capital of Joy. Some of the highlights along the way include the Dique do Tororó where you can examine the Orixás sculptures created by the Bahian artist Tati Moreno, the popular Fonte Nova soccer stadium, a stop at the Mercado Modelo (craft market) where you can browse for souvenirs, and the ornate Nossa Senhora do Rosario dos Pretos Church.

Following your tour, we recommend going to the 236 feet tall Lacerda Elevator which connects the upper and lower city and enjoy exceptional views over Salvador’s bay.

Meals (B)

After breakfast, your private transfer will take you to the airport for your flight to Lençois!

Once you arrive in Lencois, you’ll be warmly welcomed and taken to your accommodation in this old diamond-mining town. Depending on the time of your arrival in Lencois and having settled into your accommodation, the rest of the day is free to explore at leisure. The town of Lencois is a joy to stroll through with its cobblestone streets, colorful colonial buildings, local cafes, and lively restaurants. Although Lencois is beautiful, the main draw and attraction of this region is the nearby Chapada Diamantina National Park where flat-topped mountains rise suddenly from the flat valleys below. Caves, waterfalls, idyllic rivers, and panoramic plateaus set the stage for some fantastic adventures in the following few days. If you have time today, you can start on your adventure by going on a short walk from the town center to the Serrano Falls where you can choose to have a quick swim before heading back to spend the evening relaxing.

Meals (B)

Embark on an exhilarating excursion through the captivating landscapes of Brazil, as we hike towards one of the country’s most breathtaking natural treasures. Our adventure begins in the enchanting Capão Valley, where we tackle a challenging 1.25-mile uphill trail that tests our endurance and rewards us with sweeping panoramic views.

As we forge ahead, the scenery unfolds before our eyes like a living canvas. Towering trees with intriguing shapes, vibrant streams that carve their way through the land, and imposing cliffs that command our attention—nature’s raw beauty is on full display.

But the true highlight lies ahead, as we reach the centerpiece of our journey: Cachoeira da Fumaca, aptly named the Smoke Waterfall. Plummeting from an astonishing height, this natural wonder commands our awe. The cascading water, caught by the wind, creates a misty spray that dances in the sunlight, casting vivid rainbows across the sky.

After taking in this awe-inspiring sight, we pause for a well-deserved picnic lunch, replenishing our energy amidst the tranquility of our surroundings. With revitalized spirits, we retrace our steps, taking one last moment to appreciate the natural wonders that have captivated us.

But the adventure isn’t over yet. Along the return path, we stumble upon a hidden gem—the secluded Riachinho waterfall. Here, we have the opportunity to cool off with a refreshing swim, immersing ourselves in the rejuvenating waters of this serene oasis.

As the day draws to a close, we carry with us the memories of a remarkable excursion—a testament to the breathtaking beauty of Brazil’s wilderness and the indescribable joy that comes from exploring the great outdoors.

Meals (B, L)

Experience a full-day group tour like no other as you embark on a journey from Lencóis to the mesmerizing Poco Encantado and Poco Azul. Departing in the morning, your adventure begins with a visit to the iconic Poco Encantado, a limestone cave boasting a breathtaking blue water pool. Witness the natural wonder as you gaze upon the crystal-clear water, revealing the depths of the cave some 197 feet below. Immerse yourself in the beauty of this underground oasis, taking in the astonishing view that nature has crafted over time.

Continuing your expedition, you’ll be led to the remarkable Poco Azul, another hidden gem concealed beneath the earth’s surface. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to dive into an exhilarating snorkeling adventure, exploring the captivating underwater realm of the cave’s crystal blue pool. As you glide through the water, you’ll uncover the secrets that lie beneath, a unique and awe-inspiring encounter with nature’s artistry.

After your aquatic escapades replenish your energy and savor the flavors of the region by indulging in a complimentary snack. With satisfied appetites and hearts full of wonder, you’ll then be treated to a return transfer to Lencóis, the perfect time to reflect on the day’s extraordinary experiences. This full-day excursion promises not only adventure and exploration but also a connection with the natural world that will leave an indelible mark on your memory.

Meals (B, BL)

Embark on one of the most cherished and traditional hikes in Lencois, a journey that promises unforgettable natural beauty and adventure. The excursion commences at 8:30 in the morning, as you set out on a captivating 7-kilometer mining trail that meanders alongside the enchanting Ribeirao River.

Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the refreshing waters of the Sossego waterfall, where you can cool off and savor the tranquility of this pristine oasis. As midday approaches, we’ll pause for a well-deserved lunch break, allowing you to refuel and savor a delicious meal amidst the splendid natural surroundings.

Our return journey to Lencois is equally captivating, featuring a visit to the remarkable Ribeirao do Meio. Here, you’ll discover a spacious pool that beckons with its crystal-clear waters and a thrilling natural rock slide that promises exhilarating moments of aquatic fun.

As the day draws to a close, we’ll make our way back to Lencois, with an expected return time of around 5 pm. This hike offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and the chance to connect with the untouched beauty of the Brazilian wilderness, leaving you with cherished memories of this captivating journey along the Ribeirao River.

Meals (B)

After breakfast, we transport you to the airport and your flight back to the sunny climes of Salvador and its beautiful beaches. This is a transition day, so you will be spending the night before making your way to the Amazon tomorrow!

Meals (B)

Today a private transfer will take you to the airport for your flight to Manaus.

The city of Manaus is in the heart of the Brazilian Amazon Rainforest and while flying in today, make sure to look out the window for your first unforgettable view of the green carpet of rainforest below. Depending on the time of your arrival and having settled into your accommodation in Manaus, the rest of your day is free to explore the city at the gateway to the Brazilian Amazon on your own. We recommend exploring the beautiful Amazonas Theater and Opera House and the lively Adolpho Lisboa Market where you can indulge in the sweet fruits of the Amazon. Tonight, head out to one of the local restaurants in Manaus where you can enjoy fresh and locally caught fish straight from the Amazon.

Meals (B)

Embark on a captivating half-day private City Tour, immersing yourself in the rich tapestry of Manaus’ cultural heritage and architectural marvels. The journey commences with a convenient pick-up from your hotel, where your transfer awaits to lead you along an 11-mile scenic route along the picturesque riverfront road of Ponta Negra. As you traverse this enchanting path, you’ll find yourself drawn to the floating port of Manaus, a captivating and truly unique experience that unveils the city’s maritime essence.

A pause at the Rio Negro Palace follows, offering a glimpse into history through its stately presence as an erstwhile governor’s official residence. This architectural gem stands as a testament to the opulent era of rubber, an emblem of the city’s bygone splendor. The next chapter of your exploration unfolds at the Indian Museum, where the vibrant narratives, customs, and traditions of the indigenous communities of the Brazilian Amazon come alive. Gain profound insights into their way of life, forging a deeper connection with the cultural mosaic that defines this region.

Continuing your sojourn, a visit to the Salesian Congregation awaits, further enriching your understanding of indigenous populations. Here, the intricacies of their habits and behaviors are unveiled, painting a vivid picture of their existence within the Amazonian landscape. A momentary pause at the Justice Palace offers a glimpse into the administrative fabric of the city before you arrive at the zenith of today’s journey – the Opera House.

Behold the grandeur of the Opera House, a majestic and resplendent marvel that took center stage in 1896. A symbol of Manaus’ affluence during the era of the rubber boom, this magnificent theater encapsulates the essence of the city’s past and its enduring cultural legacy. As you stand in awe of its opulence, you’ll find yourself transported to a bygone era of elegance and extravagance.

Concluding this enthralling expedition, your transfer gracefully escorts you back to your hotel in Manaus, ensuring your return with a treasure trove of memories and a profound appreciation for the city’s history, architecture, and indigenous heritage. This half-day City Tour is an intimate voyage into the heart of Manaus, a harmonious blend of past and present that promises to leave an indelible mark on your journey.

Meals (B)

AM: At 9:00 we pick you up from your hotel or the airport in an air-conditioned van, and drive to the riverside town of Novo Airão. We arrive here in the early afternoon and give you a briefing on Amazon’s biology, history, and the things you may see, along the way. After boarding the Jacaré-Açu, we start sailing through the spectacular Anavilhanas Archipelago while enjoying our first delicious lunch on board.

PM: In the afternoon, we take a ride on the motorized canoes through the islands and lagoons of the archipelago. This is an area rich in wildlife, and we hope to see two species of river dolphin, as well as multiple species of birds, such as herons, egrets, macaws, parrots, caciques, oropendolas, and jacamars. Once back on the boat, we set sail to Madadá Observatory, a spectacular lookout over the Rio Negro, with basic bungalow facilities in the middle of the jungle. After dinner onboard, you can choose if you want to spend the night in your cabin or a hammock at the Observatory.

Meals: (B, L, D)

AM: After breakfast, we make a three-hour round-trip hike through virgin rainforest to Madadá Caves, with our guides giving a mini jungle survival course, along the way. We then visit an Amazon farmhouse to learn about local customs, farming techniques, and crops. In the late morning, we have a chance to cool off with a dip in the Rio Negro.

PM: After lunch on board, we set sail for the Rio Negro State Park area and a chance to try our hand at piranha fishing before sunset. Once back on the boat we set sail to Sleepy Beach, on the Rio Jau, where we will anchor for the night and enjoy dinner and sit around a bonfire for a night of native folklore storytelling.

Meals: (B, L, D)

AM: This morning we sail to the Jaú National Park Ranger Station, and then along the Rio Jaú, a river of mirror-like waters, with likely sightings of aquatic mammals and birds. The Park consists of three major rivers – Unini to the North, Carabinani to the South, and Jau in the middle – along with countless smaller black water tributaries.

The water level varies drastically during the year and the igapó forest found near the waterways can be flooded for up to eight months of the year. This type of forest is tropical and humid, with as many as 200 species per hectare. In the rainy season, we moor the boat and take the canoes through the Park’s creeks, looking for families of Giant Otters. In the dry season, we explore the Rio Pauini, a tributary filled with boulders and waterfalls.

PM: On return to the Jacaré-Açu, we sail to the indigenous community of Aturia where we moor for the evening. After dark, we go looking for caiman and nocturnal animals in the canoes, using spotlights.

Meals: (B, L, D)

AM: This morning, after breakfast, we visit Aturia village, where we can learn more about traditional life in the Amazon. The children of the village are always extremely happy to interact with visitors, so be prepared to get involved in a game of soccer or swimming or some impromptu arts and crafts.

Later we will be visiting a giant tree around the community, a very old lady from the ancient forest, before we begin an aquatic trail with regional canoes, keeping a lookout for Bicoh Monkeys and other animals.

PM: Once back on the boat, we have lunch on board before we return to the IBAMA base and sail out of Jaú National Park.

Meals: (B, L, D)

AM: Today we continue sailing from Jaú to Novo Airão. On the way, we may have the chance to swim with Pink River Dolphins. A real highlight. Once back in Novo Airão, we take a city tour to see the ship-building, the craftsmanship, and other attractions of this Amazon River town.

PM: We have a farewell lunch at “Flor do Luar”, a floating restaurant in the Anavilhanas National Park. before taking the van back to Manaus, arriving mid-afternoon for your flight home.

Meals: (B, L)