Discover The Far Reaches of Brazil

Your journey begins in Manaus, the gateway to the Amazon. With nonstop flights from the United States, reaching this historic city is very convenient. Upon arrival, settle into Villa Amazonia, a charming boutique hotel that combines comfort with a touch of the region’s colonial past.

Hit the ground running with a fascinating tour of the Meeting of the Waters. Here the dark Rio Negro and the sandy-hued Solimões River flow side by side without mixing, marking the true beginning of the Amazon River. Venture deeper into the flooded forest to witness the colossal Victoria Amazonica water lilies, a botanical marvel, and learn about their unique ecosystem. Stop at a fish reserve to observe the mighty pirarucu, the "giant fish of the Amazon," which can grow up to ten feet long. As you take in these natural wonders, you’ll also notice the steady hum of ferries and cargo barges along the riverfront. Manaus, the largest city in the Amazon, serves as a crucial port, supplying this vast and untamed waterway.

Back in the center of town, just across the street from Villa Amazonia, visit the iconic Amazon Theatre. A stunning opera house built during the late 19th century that was financed by the wealth generated from the Amazon rubber boom. Showcasing the region's economic prosperity at the time.

Today leave the city and civilization behind as the real adventure begins as you embark on an unforgettable adventure into the Amazon. Your destination is Anavilhanas Jungle Lodge. A luxurious all-inclusive eco-lodge nestled in the heart of the Brazilian Amazon, offering an immersive yet refined rainforest experience.

Anavilhanas is conveniently located a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Manaus. Crossing the only major bridge across the Amazon basin, and through the jungle (pun intended) to the Lodge. Complimentary roundtrip ground transfers are included with your stay in Manaus. However, if you want a more dramatic journey, for an extra charge, you can opt to take a scenic seaplane ride over the sprawling jungle and winding rivers. Offering a breathtaking aerial perspective of this vast ecosystem before landing in the Anavilhanas Archipelago.

Checking in to Anavilhanas Jungle Lodge is a highly personalized experience. In the beautiful open-air lounge, one of the resident guides — locals who have spent their lives in the Amazon and possess unparalleled firsthand knowledge of its wonders — will sit down with you to discuss your interests and craft a tailored itinerary for your immersive rainforest adventure. Their deep connection to the region ensures that every excursion is both authentic and enriching. Offering a rare insight into the Amazon’s hidden gems and untold stories.

Over the next few days, you will venture into the wild on guided excursions. Including canoeing through flooded forests, observing exotic wildlife such as pink river dolphins and sloths, fishing for piranhas and experiencing night safaris under the dense canopy. Enjoy cultural exchanges with local communities, learn survival skills from the expert guides and relish the tranquility of the jungle while unwinding in a hammock or by the pool.

Each excursion departs from the dockhouse, where a fleet of watercraft awaits to transport you on your chosen adventure. Upon returning, you’ll be welcomed back at the adjacent floating river bar with refreshing cold juices, fresh towels and a warm greeting from the staff. Stand-up paddle boards are available for those who wish to explore the serene river at their own pace. While the more adventurous may take a revitalizing plunge into the river — an experience to check off the bucket list.

Between excursions and meals, unwind in the private hammock on your porch, take a refreshing dip in one of the two infinity pools overlooking the river or indulge in a soothing treatment at the lodge’s tranquil massage room.

For those who wish to stay active, a well-air-conditioned gym provides a comfortable space to exercise while surrounded by the sights and sounds of the jungle. Dining at the lodge is a relaxed and personalized experience — there are no set meal times. Your dedicated table remains yours throughout your stay, and the attentive staff will quickly learn your preferences. Ensuring every meal is thoughtfully tailored to your tastes and dietary needs.

A typical day at Anavilhanas Jungle Lodge begins with a sunrise boat excursion. Where you can witness the jungle awakening with the calls of howler monkeys, river otters and the sight of exotic birds taking flight. After a delicious breakfast featuring fresh Amazonian fruits and regional delicacies, set out on a guided trek through the rainforest. Learning about the unique flora and fauna. Keep to the path in front of you as your guide will safely point out tarantulas, carpenter ants and demonstrate how Indigenous people live as one with the Amazon forest.

Lunch is served back at the lodge, offering gourmet Brazilian cuisine with fresh, locally sourced provisions. The afternoon might include a canoe trip through the flooded igapó forests, where you can spot caimans, anacondas and vibrant macaws.

After dinner, embark on a night safari to experience the jungle’s nocturnal life. Typically very well-camouflaged during the day, animals such as sloths and snakes are easily spotted when their eyes are illuminated by a flashlight. Return to the lodge for a nightcap and to swap safari stories with other guests and marvel at the star-filled Amazonian sky.

For guests staying four or more nights, an exclusive highlight is the Expedition on a Regional Boat. Spend an entire day floating down the Rio Negro aboard a traditional two-story wooden Amazonian vessel. Soak in the stunning scenery, enjoy refreshing swims in the river and unwind in a hammock as the boat drifts along. A delicious lunch of barbecued fish, prepared in the authentic local style, adds to the immersive experience. Making this a truly unforgettable way to connect with the Amazon’s natural beauty and tranquility.

After five unforgettable days in the Amazon, you’ll bid farewell to the lodge staff and reflect on your journey as you travel back to Manaus. From there, catch a flight to Brazil’s far eastern coast. Arriving in Recife for a night of urban exploration before venturing even further east the next day to the pristine paradise of Fernando de Noronha.

In Recife, check into your comfortable hotel and take the opportunity to explore the city’s vibrant arts scene, historic architecture and lively music. Don’t miss Olinda, the UNESCO-listed town that boasts colorful colonial houses, baroque churches and charming cobblestone streets. Once a thriving hub for Portuguese seafarers and sugar barons, Olinda’s history is deeply tied to Brazil’s colonial maritime trade. With its elevated vantage points offering stunning views of the Atlantic — once watched over by explorers and merchants navigating these historic waters.

If of interest, visit the Ricardo Brennand Institute, one of South America's top-rated museums. A place that defies easy description, this remarkable cultural complex could be compared to a fusion of the Tower of London, the Louvre, Versailles and the Rodin Museum. Showcasing an extensive collection of European and Brazilian art, weaponry and historical artifacts. It offers a truly one-of-a-kind experience.

After exploring its vast halls, enjoy a traditional Brazilian meal before resting up for your flight the next morning.

The final leg of your journey takes you to the breathtaking paradise of Fernando de Noronha. A UNESCO-listed island renowned for its crystal-clear waters, dramatic coastlines and thriving marine life. With a strong commitment to environmental preservation, the island strictly limits visitor numbers, bans jet planes and requires travelers to pay an Environmental Preservation Tax (TPA) for each day of their stay. As your prop plane approaches, you’ll get a stunning first glimpse of this wild, untouched haven. For the best view, sit on the left side of the plane to witness the iconic Morro Dois Irmãos rising majestically from the sea upon landing.

Upon arrival at the cutest little airport (it even has a tiny priority pass lounge), rent a 4x4 vehicle to explore the island’s rugged dirt tracks. This will give you the freedom to discover its hidden gems at your own pace. There are no major hotel brands on the island, which further adds to the charm of mystic of the island. Spend four nights in a charming boutique pousada. A small, intimate guesthouse known for its warm hospitality and local character. Here you’ll wake up to breathtaking ocean views and the soothing sounds of tropical birds.

This wilderness, which makes the island so appealing, is 70% of the archipelago is designated as the Fernando de Noronha Marine National Park. Access to certain areas requires the purchase of a special park entrance ticket.

On your first day, make sure you head to the park's offices (ICMBio Centre) to pre-reserve timed entries and guided hikes through the park. Rangers will be on hand to advise you on what’s available during your stay, and what they recommend based on your interests. One of the most rewarding guided treks in the park is Encruzilhada das Trilhas do Farol e Capim Açu. A challenging route leading to dramatic cliffs and breathtaking ocean views. Another unforgettable option is Ponta da Atalaia. Where a guided hike brings you to natural tidal pools teeming with marine life, a snorkeling paradise when conditions are right.

The true magic of Fernando de Noronha lies in the freedom to explore independently, embracing the island’s unmarked roads, hidden establishments and untouched natural beauty. With only a handful of roads crisscrossing the island, you’ll quickly get your bearings as you bounce down dirt paths leading to breathtaking beaches. Each secluded stretch of sand offers a reward at the end. Whether it’s a pristine bay, dramatic cliffs or a full-service beach bar where you can sip a caipirinha with your toes in the sand, a quintessential Brazilian experience.

A must-visit is Baía do Sancho, consistently ranked among the world’s top ten beaches. To reach this secluded paradise, head to PIC Golfinho Sancho, the park's visitor center that serves as the gateway to the eastern part of the island. Access to Baía do Sancho beach is not for the faint of heart. The adventure begins with a descent down a vertical metal ladder through a narrow rock crevice. Opening up to soft golden sand and crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Don’t worry, you can also get a great view of the bay and beach from the elevated pathway in the park, which offers scenic vistas of the coastline.

For another incredible coastal view, head down the path to see Baía dos Porcos, a striking beach framed by volcanic rock formations. You can admire it from the panoramic viewing platform at PIC Golfinho Sancho or access it at low tide via a short trek from neighboring Praia da Cacimba do Padre. Park staff will be on hand at the start of the hike to hand out hard hats — which are required due to the risk of falling rocks. A small price to pay for witnessing one of the most stunning landscapes on the island. Peer into the tide pools scattered along the shore, where vibrant tropical fish and marine life create mesmerizing little "natural aquariums" right at your feet.

Some would consider Fernando de Noronha the Galapagos of the Atlantic. While on island, take advantage of the snorkeling and diving opportunities, boasting some of the clearest waters and most vibrant marine life in Brazil. Snorkel alongside sea turtles, rays and colorful fish, or take a boat trip to explore hidden coves and spot pods of dolphins playing in the waves. For certified divers, the underwater world here is unparalleled. With shipwrecks, caves and coral reefs offering thrilling encounters with reef sharks, moray eels and tropical fish.

Each evening, as the sky transforms into hues of orange and pink, make it a tradition to watch the sunset from a different beach. Praia do Boldró is a popular gathering spot. Here, visitors sit atop the cliffs with drinks in hand, applauding as the sun dips below the horizon. Whether you choose a lively beach bar setting or a secluded stretch of sand, the nightly spectacle is a reminder of why Fernando de Noronha is one of the most breathtaking destinations in the world.