Grand Rail Tour of Brazil

Today, you’ll dive deep into the heart of Salvador da Bahia. Begin your exploration in Pelourinho, the historic centre and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stroll through its cobbled streets and admire the pastel-hued colonial mansions, ornate Baroque churches, and lively squares.

Continue on to the Barra Lighthouse, where sweeping views of the Bay of All Saints and the vast Atlantic Ocean await. Depending on timing and group interest, you may stop at Campo Grande, a culturally rich public square, or explore a lively commercial district where modern Salvador comes alive.

Today, you’ll visit the historic town of Cachoeira, known for its colonial architecture and links to the foundation of Brazil. You’ll be taken on a tour that includes candomblé temples, beautiful churches and colonial mansions.

After a traditional Brazilian lunch, head for the Dannemann Cigar Factory, where you’ll watch skilled artisans at work, hand-crafting cigars. On the way back to Salvador, you’ll stop at the Santo Amaro Market and taste some local produce.

Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast and morning in Salvador da Bahia. Later, transfer to the airport for your flight to Vitória, the capital of Espírito Santo. Nestled between the ocean and lush hills, Vitória offers a charming introduction to Brazil’s lesser-known treasures.

On arrival, embark on a panoramic city tour, including a visit to the Convent of Penha. Perched on a hilltop, the convent provides breathtaking views over the bay and cityscape.

Afterwards, check in at the Hotel Sheraton Vitória (or similar) for an overnight stay and enjoy the evening at your leisure. Why not explore a nearby beach or sample some of the region’s fresh seafood?

Today, board your first train in Vitória for a full-day journey to Belo Horizonte, travelling through some of Brazil’s most picturesque countryside. As the train winds through verdant landscapes, forested hills, and small rural communities, you’ll have ample time to relax and take in the scenery.

Upon arrival in Belo Horizonte, the capital of Minas Gerais, you’ll be transferred to the Holiday Inn Belo Horizonte (or similar) for an overnight stay.

Start your day exploring Belo Horizonte, a city known for its impressive architecture, vibrant culture, and mountainous setting. Later, travel through rolling countryside to the historic town of Ouro Preto, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Brazil’s finest examples of colonial architecture.

On arrival, enjoy a delicious lunch at a traditional Minas Gerais restaurant, known for its hearty, flavourful food. Afterwards, immerse yourself in Ouro Preto’s Baroque splendour—with its ornately decorated churches, preserved mansions, and cobbled streets steeped in history.

As evening falls, you’ll settle in for a 2-night stay at the Hotel Pousada do Arcanjo (or similar).

After breakfast, set out on a scenic journey through lush, rolling hills towards Mariana, one of Brazil’s oldest colonial towns and a key site in the country’s gold rush era. On arrival, enjoy a delicious lunch in the heart of this quaint village, soaking up the relaxed atmosphere and colonial architecture.

In the afternoon, descend into the region’s storied past with a guided visit to a historic gold mine. Discover what life was like during the Brazilian gold boom and gain a deeper understanding of the wealth, hardship, and heritage that shaped this part of the country. After your visit, return to Ouro Preto for a final night.

Today begins with a scenic drive through the countryside to the charming town of Tiradentes, known for its colonial architecture and mountain views. Your journey continues aboard a vintage steam train to São João del Rei, one of Brazil’s oldest railway towns. Visit the railway museum and the historic Rotunda, where you’ll gain insight into Brazil’s transportation heritage and industrial history.

Returning to Tiradentes, you’ll check in at the Pousada Mãe D’Água (or similar) before enjoying the remainder of the afternoon and evening at your leisure.

Bid farewell to the peaceful charm of Tiradentes as you begin your scenic journey to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil’s most iconic city—where samba beats, golden beaches, and towering peaks await.

As you travel through the shifting landscapes of Minas Gerais into the tropical energy of Rio, take in the changing scenery—from lush mountains and rural towns to the dramatic coastline of the City of Samba.

Upon arrival, check in for a 3-night stay at the Hotel Miramar (or similar) and prepare to explore the vibrant energy of Rio.

Begin your day on Rio’s world-famous beaches—Copacabana and Ipanema—where locals and visitors gather to enjoy sun, surf, and people-watching in quintessential Brazilian fashion.

Take a step back in time with a visit to the former Guanabara Palace, once the seat of royal and presidential power before venturing into the lush Tijuca Forest, one of the largest urban rainforests in the world, just minutes from the city centre.

Finally, ascend Sugarloaf Mountain by cable car. As you reach the summit, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Rio’s dramatic coastline, cityscape, and surrounding peaks—a truly unforgettable experience.

Enjoy a leisurely morning before heading to Santa Teresa, one of Rio’s most artistic neighbourhoods. Tucked away in the hills, this bohemian quarter is home to colonial mansions, winding streets and a vibrant cultural scene.

Savour lunch at a relaxed local eatery and then in the afternoon, discover the vibrant energy of downtown Rio, exploring historic buildings, bustling streets, and the colourful murals and street art that reflect the city’s lively spirit.

Catch an early flight to Curitiba, the capital of Paraná and a shining example of modern urban planning in Brazil.

With a local guide, explore Curitiba’s striking landmarks including the beautifully landscaped Tanguá Park, the iconic Oscar Niemeyer Museum, and the ornate Paço da Liberdade, an architectural gem blending neoclassical elegance with cultural purpose.

Enjoy a 2-night stay at the Radisson Curitiba Hotel (or similar)

Today, embark on one of Brazil’s most stunning train journeys aboard the Serra Verde Express, as you wind your way through the Serra do Mar mountains. The route offers awe-inspiring views of deep valleys, dense Atlantic Rainforest, and towering viaducts.

Arrive in Morretes, a charming riverside town with cobbled streets, colourful colonial houses, and a vibrant craft market. Wander at your leisure before sitting down to a traditional local lunch, often featuring barreado—a regional slow-cooked meat dish.

In the late afternoon, return to Curitiba by road for an evening at leisure.

Start your day with an early flight to Campinas, where you’ll board a historic museum train for a scenic ride to Jaguariúna. This nostalgic journey takes you through the diverse and picturesque countryside surrounding São Paulo, offering a unique glimpse into Brazil’s railway legacy.

The vintage train, once part of the state’s expansive coffee transport network, now offers a relaxed and charming way to explore the region’s rural landscapes and small-town culture.

In the evening, enjoy dinner at a traditional motorway restaurant—a local experience in itself—before arriving in the vibrant metropolis of São Paulo, where you’ll check in for a 3-night stay at the Qoya Hotel Sao Paulo (or similar).

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Venture just beyond São Paulo today to the atmospheric village of Paranapiacaba, nestled in the misty hills of the Atlantic Forest. Established in the 19th century to support Brazil’s pioneering railway operations, the village is a living monument to industrial innovation.

Explore the funicular railway system and wander through the village’s preserved technical installations, historic worker housing, and charming streets.

Return to São Paulo in the afternoon, with the evening at your leisure.

Today, delve into the dynamic spirit of São Paulo, South America’s largest and most cosmopolitan city. Begin your exploration with a tour through its diverse neighbourhoods, including Pacaembu, Paulista Avenue and Ibirapuera Park. Next, head into downtown São Paulo and pay a visit to the Pátio do Colégio, the city’s founding site.

Enjoy a last lunch at an upscale local restaurant before visiting Luz Station, a stunning 19th-century railway terminal, now home to the Pinacoteca do Estado—São Paulo’s renowned fine arts museum—and the adjacent Luz Park.

Return to your hotel in the evening for your final night in Brazil.

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your international flight home, bidding farewell to Brazil and the unforgettable memories you’ve made along the way.

Alternatively, extend your journey with an optional post-tour visit to the spectacular Iguaçu Falls, one of the most magnificent natural wonders in South America (call us for details).