Rio Carnival to Iguazú Falls: An Inspiring Expedition by Geoffrey Kent

Rio de Janeiro is the stage on which the annual Rio Carnival — the world’s greatest public celebration — is performed. Rio also offers renowned white-sand beaches, a delectable food scene and a lively atmosphere year-round. Arrive to a VIP welcome and transfer to Fasano Hotel Rio de Janeiro, where your room is ready for occupancy the moment you arrive. This evening, join Geoffrey Kent and your fellow guests for a welcome cocktail, followed by dinner in the hilltop district of Santa Teresa.

Brazil’s distinctive soccer culture is like no other in the world, centered around an exuberant style of play directly linked to capoeira — a fusion of martial arts and dance developed by Africans as a form of cultural resistance and now a celebrated facet of Brazilian culture. Set out this morning for an exclusive visit to the Maracanã Stadium to meet a professional soccer player, who joins you out on the pitch. Tonight, get in the Carnival mood ahead of the famous Copacabana Palace Magic Ball, the most exclusive and extravagant event of Rio Carnival. While men traditionally adhere to a formal black-tie dress code, women are encouraged to attend in either gala attire or extravagant costume. Stroll the red carpet and party with Brazil’s rich, famous and beautiful, thanks to your all-access passes.

Your morning is free to sleep in after last night’s festivities. This afternoon, see the iconic sites of Rio from a perspective few others experience. Skip the line for the train up Corcovado Mountain and instead board a private helicopter for a 360-degree view of Christ the Redeemer, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Land at Morro da Urca and ride a private cable car for exclusive access to the summit of Sugar Loaf Mountain, where a specially arranged sunset cocktail reception and dinner awaits set against sweeping views of Guanabara Bay and the city lights below.

This morning, hit the streets for a unique view of Rio’s Street Carnival. Our local experts take you to experience one of these diverse street events, which caters to all tastes in music and party styles. Then, drive to Samba City, where all major samba schools are located, for special access to one of the schools. Have lunch at one of the best traditional churrascaria restaurants in Rio, accompanied by spectacular views of the waterfront.In the evening, it’s time for the main event: the Samba School parade competition at the Sambódromo. Witness a dazzling procession of elaborate floats, whirling dancers and pounding drum corps from your private lounge reserved exclusively for your party that offers the very best in comfort and service. Dance the night away and marvel at the sights and sounds of the world’s greatest party with the utmost in VIP access.

After a final breakfast overlooking Ipanema, bid farewell to Rio and its Carnival spirit as you board your private charter flight to Iguazú Falls. In just over two hours, the pulse of the city gives way to the lush rainforest canopy surrounding one of the world’s great natural wonders. Drive to the iconic Belmond Hotel das Cataratas, the only hotel located inside the national park, which offers privileged access and uninterrupted views of the jungle.Comprising 275 cascades and straddling the border between Argentina and Brazil, Iguazú Falls is taller than Niagara Falls and twice as wide. An array of walking trails and footbridges allows travellers to get up close to the thundering falls while observing a lively menagerie of toucans, monkeys, coatimundis and butterflies.As evening descends, gather for a private outdoor barbecue and artisanal cachaça tasting under the southern stars.

This morning, depart for the Argentine side of the falls, where you meet a small train that takes you through the park. Stop at the very brink of the Devil’s Throat waterfall, the largest in the park and one of the most awe-inspiring natural spectacles you will ever see. A private lunch overlooking the cascades is the perfect capstone to your visit to the falls. This evening, embark on a different kind of journey: a culinary adventure guided by a celebrated local chef, sampling complex regional flavors served with inimitable Brazilian hospitality.

Experience Iguazú Falls from the Brazilian side, entering before regular visiting hours thanks to exclusive access secured for you by A&K. Descend along a canyon trail for panoramic views, and then board a glass elevator to a platform that offers a thrilling new vantage point. The adventure builds as you board a helicopter for a panoramic flight over Iguazú, gaining a rare aerial perspective of the massive horseshoe of water and mist. Back on the ground, continue with an exhilarating boat ride that takes you right up to the bottom of the falls to feel the true force of this natural wonder. Celebrate the journey with an elegant private cocktail and dinner event at the hotel, complete with live music, as you toast the end of a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

After a morning with time to relax, transfer privately to Foz do Iguaçu Airport for your departing homebound flight.