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Available: 7+ spaces

Secure your place on this trip with $350 deposit. Final payment due 60 days before departure.

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      • Hotels: Standard Class

      • 06/21/2025 - 06/29/2025

      • Max Participants: 16

      • 9 Days / 8 Nights

      Overview

      This 9-day adventure offers the perfect combination of natural beauty and cosmopolitan culture. Travel from the tango palaces of Buenos Aires to the samba pulse of Rio de Janeiro, and discover spectacular wilderness in between. See thundering Iguazu Falls from both Argentina and Brazil. Then continue to the coast and soak in the sun on Ilha Grande’s beaches and colonial culture in Paraty. Visit South America with us, all while earning professional development credit with other educators.

      A map of the tour begins in Buenos Aires, with a flight from there to Puerto Iguazu (in Argentina) at Iguassu Falls. Then there is a flight from Foz do Iguaçu (in Brazil) to São Paulo. The tour continues to Paraty and Ilha Grande, before ending in Rio de Janeiro.
      What's Included:
      • Admission and visit to both the Argentine and Brazilian sides of Iguazú Falls
      • Internal flights
      • G Adventures Tour Leader throughout
      • 8 breakfasts – allow $420-550 USD for meals not included
      • Hotels (9 nts)
      • All transport between destinations and to/from included activities by plane, shared van, and ferry
      What's Not Included:
      • International air travel
      • Incidentals
      • Travel health and cancellation insurance
      • Applicable visas
      • Tips or gratuities
      • Airport taxes
      • Beverages
      • Meals not mentioned in itinerary
      • Optional tours and admissions
      • Airport transfers

      Itinerary Download PDF

      Day 1: Buenos Aires Arrive in Buenos Aires at any time. Meet your group for a welcome meeting around 6:00 or 7:00 p.m.

      You may arrive in Buenos Aires at any time today. The main airport is Buenos Aires's Ezeiza International Airport (EZE), but Jorge Newbery Airfield (AEP) is also used by some South American airlines. Known as the Paris of the Americas, Buenos Aires is one of South America's greatest cities and is full of life. We strongly recommend arriving at least a day or two early to explore the city. This will also give you a cushion to avoid any disruption to your trip due to flight delays or cancellations. We can book extra hotel nights for you in Buenos Aires before the trip. Please note that check-in at the hotel is usually around 2:00-3:00 p.m. There are no planned activities until an intro meeting around 6:00 or 7:00 p.m., usually in the hotel lobby. Check for a sign or ask at the reception desk about the exact time and location of the group meeting. Please make every effort to arrive in time for this meeting. If you are delayed and will arrive late, please inform us. Your tour leader will then leave you a message at the front desk informing you of where and when to meet up tomorrow. After the meeting, you might choose to have dinner at a nearby restaurant with your traveling companions and your tour leader to get to know one another further. The capital city of Argentina, Buenos Aires is the ultimate cosmopolitan city. Travelers find that it has more in common with the cities of Europe than the rest of South America. Roughly one-third of Argentina’s 45 million citizens live in greater Buenos Aires, and the Porteños are justifiably proud of their home. During colonial days, Buenos Aires was the seat of the Viceroy of La Plata. The heart of the city is the Plaza de Mayo, which has been almost completely rebuilt since the turn of the century. The Plaza features many notable sites worth a visit, including the historic Cabildo (Town Hall), where the Independence movement was first planned; the Casa Rosada (Government Palace); and the Metropolitan Cathedral of Buenos Aires, where San Martín, the father of Argentine independence, is buried. The city is comprised of a number of distinct neighborhoods, some of which have become top tourist draws. For many, the highlight of their time in the capital is a visit to San Telmo for the weekend antiques market and street artists’ displays. La Boca was originally settled by the successive waves of immigrants that contributed to the capital’s unique character. Its brightly colored walls and buildings draw Porteños and tourists alike. Posh Recoleta, with its cafés, museums, and cemetery, is a pleasant place to spend an afternoon. When you are done exploring, settle your weary feet and enjoy a drink in one of the many sidewalk cafés and restaurants, and you will begin to understand the contemplative Argentine way of life. Try the succulent bifé and parrilladas, two forms of renowned Argentinian beef. If you have time, visit the districts of La Boca, Recoleta, and San Telmo, or catch a tango show at one of the many famous tanguerías. Wander the pedestrian walkways and see some dancing in the streets.

      After a morning flight from Buenos Aires, our visit to Brazil begins with the magnificent Foz do Iguaçu, or Iguazú Falls, which converge at the borders of Brazil, Paraguay, and Argentina. Originally “discovered” in 1541 by the Spaniard Juan Alvar Nuñez, he named the falls Saltos de Santa María. The name we use today means “great waters” in the Tupi-Guarani tongue. The Falls are protected by two National Parks – one in Brazil and another in Argentina. Tours utilize trails and catwalks adapted to the landscape of the area, and walking is easy for all ages. The torrential Iguazú River crosses the State of Paraná in Southern Brazil from East to West. A few kilometers before its junction with the Paraná River, one of the most splendorous natural beauties of the world, Iguazú Falls, takes shape. Over 2.7 kilometers long and an average flow of 1,750 cubic meters per second, this wonder is located in a very special place. The contrast between the green of the vegetation and the dark color of the basalt rocks with whirring waters plunging from a 72-meter-high cliff is magical. At Iguassu, there are 275 falls in all, spread over a 3-km area, some over 80 m (262.4 ft) in height, making these cataracts wider than Victoria Falls and higher than Niagara! It should come as no surprise that UNESCO declared the region a World Heritage site in 1986. To see the falls properly, you need to view them from both the Brazilian and the Argentinean sides. The Brazilian side offers the grand overview and the Argentinean side provides a closer look. Today, we visit the Brazilian side of the Falls to get a panoramic view of one of the world's largest and most impressive waterfalls. Approximate travel time: 1.5 hrs by plane; 1.5-2 hrs by private vehicle. Meals included: Breakfast

      Spend the whole day on the Argentina side of Iguazú Falls, exploring the paths over the Falls or experiencing the UNESCO World Heritage site from a boat tour. Tours utilize trails and catwalks adapted to the landscape of the area, and walking is easy for all ages; guided tours of the complex are available several times a day. See our list of some possible optional activities at the falls toward the bottom of this page. Meals included: Breakfast

      This morning we fly to São Paulo and continue by van to Paraty, a quaint colonial town on the coast renowned for its architecture. Opt to visit the cachaça distilleries or take a boat into the bay to explore the nearby islands and beaches. Paraty is a lovely colonial town. Sitting on Brazil's southeastern coast, it lies on the border of Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo states, and it is popular among those who want to get away from it all – Brazilians and visitors alike. Considered one of the world's most important examples of Portuguese colonial architecture by UNESCO, the historic center is a well-preserved national historic monument. Today, the center is closed to vehicles as a means of preserving its laid-back colonial ambiance. During high tide, the Portuguese cobblestone streets are partly flooded by seawater, adding to the fairy tale atmosphere. In the 1700's, when the mines of Minas Gerais were pouring out gold, the perfect bay of Paraty was a busy port, the second most important in Brazil during the "Golden Century." The best pinga or cachaça (sugar cane liquor) of Brazil was produced here, and the name "Paraty" became synonymous with the liquor. Later, coffee was brought from the valley of Paraiba to be shipped to Portugal, sparking another economic boom. In 1888, with the end of the slavery, Paraty became almost forgotten in time, and a large exodus left only a population of around 600, a considerable drop from the 16,000 when the town was in its prime. In 1954, a road was opened linking the town to the inland through the valley of Paraiba, but it was not until 1973-1975, with the opening of the highway BR-101, that Paraty's rebirth as a tourist town began. It was declared a national monument in 1966. Paraty's bay, Baia Carioca, is filled with over 65 tropical islands and dozens of beaches, each offering something different, and all covered with vegetation that remains lush and colorful year-round. The water of the Baia is always the right temperature for swimming, diving, and snorkeling. The national parks that encircle the town are filled with trails, wildlife, and waterfalls. Hiking or horseback riding, for the sports-minded, or a jeep or van tour are both excellent ways to appreciate this natural wilderness. Approximate travel time: 1.5 hrs. by plane (Iguaçu to São Paulo); 5-6 hrs. by shared van (São Paulo to Paraty). Meals included: Breakfast

      Enjoy a free day to explore Paraty. Optional activities include a Caipirinha boat trip, kayaking, and horseback riding. See our list of more possible optional activities toward the bottom of this page. Meals included: Breakfast

      This morning, we have a short, scenic drive along the coast to Angra dos Reis, where we board the ferry to Ilha Grande, home to some of Brazil's most beautiful beaches. Enjoy free time to soak up the sun, snorkel, hike, and cruise to various beaches, not to mention feast on fresh seafood and sip caipirinhas in the plaza in the evenings. Ilha Grande truly defines what we imagine when thinking of a tropical beach paradise. Cars on the island are limited to essential services only (fire, ambulance, etc.), it is largely undeveloped, and there are many hiking trails leading to deserted white sand beaches. Once a favored hangout for pirates, slave traders, and, up until the late 20th century, a political prison. Now, Ilha Grande is a pristine remnant of Brazil’s Atlantic rainforest. The flora and fauna on Ilha Grande, a Nacional Patrimony protected area, are extremely diverse. The state park was created in 1971 and encompasses 4,500 hectares of wilderness. Mountain range, coastal, mangrove, and prairie vegetation are all found here, along with an astonishing collection of bird life, including parrots, woodpeckers, Brazilian thrushes, and saracuras. There are also different kinds of monkeys, squirrels, armadillos, pacas, hedgehogs, and snakes, as well as endangered species such as the Alouatta Fusca, more commonly known as the Bugio monkey. Approximate travel time: 2 hrs by shared van (Paraty to Angra dos Reis); 1.5 hrs by ferry (Angra dos Reis to Ilha Grande). Meals included: Breakfast

      Today, we enjoy a free day on Ilha Grande. You might consider hiking Pico Do Papagalo or Lopez Mendez, going snorkeling, or relaxing on the beach. There's plenty to see and do on Ilha Grande—see our list of some possible optional activities toward the bottom of this page. Meals included: Breakfast

      Leaving the port after returning from Ilha Grande, we travel north along a dramatic road up the coast through superb scenery before rounding the cliffs at Vidigal, where we get our first glimpse of one of the most memorable cities in the world: Brazil’s ocean-side jewel, Rio de Janeiro. "God made the world in 6 days, the seventh he devoted to Rio," so say the Cariocas, residents of this beautiful city. This is a densely packed metropolis of over 9 million inhabitants, whose economic foundations lie in the cultivation of sugar cane and gold mining. Referred to as the “cidade maravilhosa” (Marvellous City), few cities enjoy such a dramatic setting as Rio. Brilliant, white beaches at Copacabana and Ipanema, the deep blue waters of the Atlantic, the luminescent green of Guanabara Bay, and the bare blue slopes of Pão de Açúcar (Sugarloaf Mountain) combine to make Rio unique. Standing over it all, atop Corcovado (Hunchback), is the huge statue of Christ the Redeemer, the best place from which to appreciate the city. Superb panoramic views of the city and area can also be found from the top of Pão de Açúcar, which can be reached by cable car. Head to some of the famous beaches and prepare yourself for an experience unlike anything else on Earth. Although the Portuguese first sailed and entered the bay, it was the French who first established a settlement in the area, logging Brazilian wood along the coast. Their first permanent settlement lasted a brief 5 years, when they were attacked and driven from the area by the encroaching Portuguese. A series of skirmishes ensued, with the Tomaio people allied with the French against the Portuguese. In 1567, the Portuguese began construction of a fortified town to repel invaders, naming it São Sebastião do Rio de Janeiro. Amassing wealth with the gold rush of Minas Gerais, in the early 18th century, Rio became Brazil’s most important city and a great temptation to the French who, in 1710, waged war against the Portuguese, at one point holding the city for a sizeable ransom in gold. Again in the 19th century, under threat of Napoleon’s invasion, what remained of the Portuguese monarchy fled to Brazil where they set up court in grand style. Many of today’s older structures date from this period. The gold rush was followed by a coffee boom in the mid-1800's and the wealth generated led to the city’s initial modernization. Replacing Salvador de Bahía as the colonial capital in 1763, the city remained the capital until 1960, when it was replaced by Brasilia. Today, the city is a magnet for tourists who come to walk the beaches of Ipanema and Copacabana and generally partake in the Carioca zest for life. Many ascend Pão de Açúcar, whose image is nearly synonymous with Rio and Carnival. Modern Rio is perhaps best known for the contrasting images offered by the favelhas (also spelled favelas; shanty towns), and the glitz and glamour preferred by the Samba schools and their Carnival celebrations. Rio is definitely a tale of two cities: the city is divided into a Zona Norte (North Zone) and a Zona Sul (South Zone) by the Serra da Carioca, steep mountains that are part of the Parque Nacional da Tijuca. These mountains descend to the edge of the city center, where the two zones meet. The upper and middle classes reside in the Zona Sul, the lower class in the Zona Norte. Favelas cover steep hillsides on both sides of town. Rocinha, Brazil's largest favela, is in Gávea, one of Rio's richest neighborhoods. Most industry is in the Zona Norte, as is most of the pollution. The ocean and beaches are in the Zona Sul. Approximate travel time: 1.5 hrs by ferry (Ilha Grande to Agra dos Reis); 3.5 hrs by shared van (Agra dos Reis to Rio de Janeiro). Meals included: Breakfast

      There are no planned activities today, so you may depart Rio de Janeiro at any time. The nearest airport is Rio's Galeão International Airport (GIG). If you wish to extend your stay in Rio de Janeiro, consider booking post-tour accommodation with us. Please note that check-out time from the hotel is usually mid-morning, but luggage storage services are available at the reception desk. Want more adventure? Book two or more GEEO programs in the same school year and receive a discount! GEEO will give you 10% off the lesser-value program(s) (up to three programs per year). If you would like to extend your time abroad but don't see another GEEO program that interests you, let us know. We can help you find a trip from our partner tour's much larger catalog. Their tours are open to the general public and not designed specifically for educators, but we can still offer you and your travel companions a discounted educator price on any of their tours, and you would still receive GEEO's fast and attentive customer service. Meals included: Breakfast

      Details

      Frequently Asked Questions
      Please read our general FAQs, where you can find essential information that applies to all of our programs.
      Resources to Learn & Teach about Argentina and Brazil
      Visit our recommended reading page to see the list of books GEEO recommends reading before your program (this is not required reading). We also have lesson plans and Pinterest boards that may be useful for you as you learn about your destination and prepare to bring lessons back to your classroom.
      Terms and Conditions
      It is very important to review our Terms and Conditions before signing up for a GEEO program.
      GEEO Program Confirmation Process
      We require a minimum of 6 participants for most GEEO programs. We officially confirm that a program will run once at least 8 people have signed up, which provides a margin for individual cancellations. Nearly all GEEO programs ultimately meet this enrollment quota, and in the rare event that a program does not meet the minimum requirement and GEEO cancels the program, we will work with you to find a suitable alternative or provide a refund of your deposit if you prefer. We encourage you to sign up for any program that interests you, and we will notify the entire group once 6 people are booked and again once 8 people are booked. We always emphasize the importance of exercising caution when making non-refundable travel arrangements, especially given the unpredictable nature of travel. For example, we typically recommend booking flights with flexible change/cancellation policies.
      Cancellation Policy
      All cancellations must be submitted to GEEO in writing by emailing your request for cancellation to travel@geeo.org. If you do not receive a confirmation that we have received your cancellation request, please call us at 1-877-600-0105.
      • If you cancel 60 days or more prior to the start of your program, all your program fee payments will be refunded excluding your $350 deposit, which is kept on file for future use and never expires.
      • If you cancel between 30 and 59 days prior to the start of your program, you will receive a 50% refund and your deposit will be kept on file for future use and will never expire.
      • If you cancel within 30 days prior to the start of your program, you will receive no refund, but your deposit will be kept on file for future use and will never expire.
      Group Leader Description
      All GEEO/G Adventures group trips are accompanied by one of G Adventure’s group leaders, which they refer to as Chief Experience Officers (CEOs). The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are traveling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues, and introduce you to our local friends. Our itineraries often have plenty of free time to explore on your own. While not being guides in the traditional sense, you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious, and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting – we think it’s the best of both worlds.
      Fitness Level
      This trip includes light walking and hiking that is suitable for most fitness levels. In the cities, you can split apart from the group to go at your own pace.
      Single Travelers
      Half of GEEO’s participants travel by themselves, so please don’t worry if you do not have a travel companion for your trip. Our program fee is for one traveler in double-occupancy accommodation, and GEEO can find you a roommate of the same gender if you do not have a travel companion. Most of our programs have a “My Own Room” option, also known as a “Single Supplement,” which is an extra fee that you can pay to have a room to yourself. You will only incur an additional charge if you specifically request a single room. To see the price for the “My Own Room” option, please find your program on our extra services page. If you want to room alone, please email travel@geeo.org to request a single room.
      Joining Instructions
      Day 1 is an arrival day, and no activities have been planned. Upon arrival to the city on Day 1, or earlier if you have booked pre-accommodation with us, please make your way to the joining hotel. Please note: Check-in time will be in the afternoon. Once you arrive at the hotel, look for a note at reception from your tour leader. This note will give the details of your Welcome Meeting on Day 1, usually between 6:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m., during which you will get a chance to meet your tour leader and other travelers, as well as learn more about how the tour will run. If you don’t see a note, please ask reception for details. If you miss the Welcome Meeting, your tour leader will leave a note at reception for you with any information you may need and with instructions for the next morning. The main international airport in Buenos Aires is officially known as Ministro Pistarini International Airport, but it is commonly referred to Ezeiza International Airport. It is located 22 miles outside the city (about 40 minutes by taxi). A taxi to the city center costs approximately $45 USD and can be arranged from the official taxi counters located inside the airport. If you have paid in advance for an arrival transfer, a G Adventures representative will be at the airport to meet you. If for any reason you are not met at the airport, please call our local support line. If you are unable to make contact for whatever reason, please make your way to the joining point hotel via taxi.
      Emergency Contacts
      Should you need to contact G Adventures during a situation of dire need, it is best to first call their local G Adventures office. If for any reason you do not receive an immediate answer, please leave a detailed message and contact information so they may return your call and assist you as soon as possible. EMERGENCY CONTACT NUMBERS G Adventures Office Lima, Peru. During office hours (Weekdays, 9-6pm Local Time): +51 1 241 1650 After hours Emergency number: +51 99 758 2712 (WhatsApp available) If you are unable for any reason to contact G Adventures’ local office, please call their their Toronto office: Toll free from North America: 1 888 800 4100, Outside North America: +1 416 260 0999
      Packing List
      Please read this article on GEEO’s blog for our staff’s suggestions on the best gear to pack for your upcoming travels. You must be prepared to carry your own bags and be comfortable carrying them up and down stairs, on and off transportation, and to hotels. As a rule, we try not to have to walk more than 15-20 minutes with your bags, which is why we recommend keeping the weight of your bags between 22-30 lb. Most travelers carry a backpack or rolling bag of small to medium size. No XXL bags please! A daypack is also essential for carrying everyday items. Space is limited on transportation, so there is a limit of one main piece of luggage per person plus a daypack per person. Please note: Aerolineas Argentinas allows one piece of luggage that weighs up to 15 kg on internal flights. For every extra kilo, the airline will charge $10 per kg at the time of check-in. Suggested Checklist
      • Fleece top or a packable jacket
      • Light windproof/waterproof jacket
      • Sun hat
      • Small towel and swimwear
      • Personal clothing for cool to warm weather – we recommend packing 7-8 days of outfits so you only have to do laundry once
      • One pair of long pants – it will be chilly in Buenos Aires
      • Daypack
      • Sturdy walking shoes
      • Sport sandals or flip-flops
      • Sunblock
      • Sunglasses
      • Watch or alarm clock
      • Small flashlight
      • Toiletries – your hotels will have soap and shampoo
      • Camera
      • First-aid kit including lip salve, aspirin, bandaids, anti-histamine, Dramamine, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, electrolyte powder, insect repellent, extra prescription drugs you may be taking
      Optional Checklist
      • Travel pillow
      • Money belt
      • Phone/tablet for internet – most hotels have WiFi
      • Chargers for electronics as well converters/adapters, if needed
      • AirTags or Tile trackers
      • Packing cubes
      • Earplugs
      • Snacks – packing a few granola bars is a good idea; you can also buy snacks when you get there, so don’t go crazy
      • Ziplock bags
      • Reading/writing material
      • Hand sanitizer/baby wipes
      Document Checklist
      • Passport (with photocopies)
      • Travel insurance (with photocopies)
      • Airline tickets (with photocopies)
      • EUR/USD cash
      • Credit or debit card (see personal spending money)
      • G Adventures vouchers, pre-departure information, and dossier
      • Any entry visas or vaccination certificates required
      • GEEO Classroom action plans for your group – this is sent 10-30 days before departure
      Laundry
      Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels for a charge. You can also use a local laundromat, if necessary.
      Passports and Visas
      All GEEO programs require the participant to have a valid passport. Please see our general FAQ for information on obtaining a passport. As with all of our trips, we try to provide the most accurate information we can, but governments sometimes change visa rules. It is your responsibility to double check the information we provide below by searching here. Argentina U.S. citizens do not need a visa to travel to Argentina. Non-American participants should check with their government to find out if they need a visa or need to pay a reciprocity fee. Brazil U.S. citizens and some other nationalities need a tourist visa ($160) to travel to Brazil. To learn about the visa process, please visit this page. This trip crosses the border between Argentina and Brazil at Paso Iguazu, which lies between the cities of Puerto Iguazú (Argentina) and Foz do Iguaçu (Brazil).
      Money Exchange
      The currencies used in Argentina and Brazil the Argentine Peso (ARS) and the Brazilian Real (BRL). As currency exchange rates fluctuate, we ask that you refer to the following website for daily exchange rates: www.xe.com. We recommend that you obtain cash from ATMs while traveling; they will dispense the local currency. We do, however, recommend that you bring at least $200 USD in cash for emergency use or in case you have trouble with the ATMs. Major credit cards are accepted in most shops, but you may be charged an international transaction fee; ask your financial institution about their international fees. Please note that if you are carrying U.S. dollars, the bills should be in good condition (i.e., not torn, wrinkled, or marked on in any way) and dated recently.
      Tipping
      It is customary in Latin America to tip service providers such as waiters, at approximately 10%, depending on the service. Tipping is an expected, though not compulsory, component of this program and an expression of satisfaction with the people who assist you on your trip. Tipping is also one of the most direct ways that you can have a positive economic impact within the local community. Although it may not be customary to you, it is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels. There will be opportunities during the trip to tip your local guides or drivers. You may do this individually, or your tour leader may offer to collect the money and give a tip on behalf of the group. Recommendations for tipping local guides and drivers range from $5–10 EUR per person per day, depending on the quality and length of the service. Ask your tour leader for specific recommendations based on the circumstances and expectations. Also, at the end of your program, if you felt your G Adventures tour leader did an outstanding job, a tip would be appreciated. The amount is entirely your personal preference, but as a guideline, $20-25 USD per person per week would be appropriate.
      Vaccinations
      GEEO cannot provide any medical advice, so it is very important to consult your doctor or a travel clinic about which vaccinations you will need for your trip. We recommend contacting Passport Health, which has travel clinics located throughout the United States. You can also check the CDC's recommended vaccinations for your destination. Please take this seriously!
      Flights
      We find the best prices for flights are often available around 90 days before departure, but of course this varies greatly from route to route and year to year. You should wait until this trip is confirmed before you book non-refundable flights. GEEO and G Adventures bear no responsibility for any flights purchased before the trip is confirmed. This program begins in Buenos Aires and ends in Rio de Janeiro. Please double-check our itinerary for the date by which you must arrive in Buenos Aires. You may want to arrive in Europe one or more days early in case you have flight disruptions. You can arrive at any time you choose, but try to make it in time for our 6:00 p.m. Welcome Meeting on Day 1. You can depart Rio de Janeiro any time on the final day of the program.
      Plugs and Converters
      There are two components to provide external power to your device: adapters and transformers (also called electrical converters). The adapter is for your device's plug, adapting the prongs on a standard U.S. two- to three-pronged power cord to fit the local outlets. The transformer/converter changes the local voltage to the voltage used in the U.S. Brazil and Argentina both use 220V European type C plugs. (Standard U.S. electrical outlets are 120V.) Most new devices, including phones and laptops, are made to work with the different voltage rates, but some devices, like hair dryers, may only work on the U.S. standard of 120V. Check your device's plug or manual to see what voltage range it requires. Most transformer blocks will have an “Input” line that defines its voltage capacity; for example, “Input: 100-240V” means that it will work with voltages between 100V to 240V. If your device can’t handle the higher voltage, you’ll need to purchase a transformer/converter. You can find world transformers/converters online or at many retail stores in the travel section. Please note: Brazil technically uses a type "N" plug, which is similar to a European-style type C plug except with a third prong in the middle. Type C plugs, however, work just as well in Brazil, are easier to procure, and can be used in more places around the world.
      Expectations
      Before you decide to travel with GEEO, it is important that you read all of the information about the program you are considering. Remember, our programs are quite adventurous.
      • The purpose of the accommodation is to provide a safe, well-located place for you to sleep. Sometimes you will be pleasantly surprised, but do not expect luxury as we are trying to keep these trips as inexpensive as possible.
      • We use a mix of transportation that gets our guests from location to location safely. The transportation will often be an adventure in itself.
      • You must be able to easily carry or roll your luggage, so do not over-pack.
      • Please make sure you have thoroughly read the itinerary and can handle the group activities.
      • We recommend always carrying snacks with you. Meals can sometimes be far apart.
      • Please make sure you understand the role of your tour leader on this trip as they are not the traditional “guide” you may be expecting. While our trips are educational, they aren’t study/lecture trips. We want you to learn through exploring, and much of your experience will be based on how active you choose to be in acquiring knowledge and interacting with locals.
      Hopefully this is the kind of adventure you are interested in!
      Itinerary Disclaimer
      While it is our intention to adhere to the routes described on our website, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable, to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable. The information on our website is a general guide to the tour and region, and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances.
      Weather
      June is the beginning of winter in the Southern Hemisphere. In Buenos Aires, the temperatures should be in the low 60s or high 50s during the day and low 50s or high 40s at night. Brazil will be warmer, with daytime temperatures in the 60s and 70s.

      Costs

      Please keep in mind that this trip offers some free time to pursue activities that interest you. Make sure you look over all of the optional activities and note these additional costs when deciding whether you can afford this program. The prices below are rough estimates for budgeting your trip.
      Tour Company Fee
      See our price in the top right corner
      Optional Activities
      $200-400 USD
      International Airfare from the United States
      Approximately $800-1,350 USD If you require assistance in booking your international airfare, we would be happy to help you.
      Airport Transfers
      Varies depending on whether you take public transport or taxis. Anywhere from $30 to $80.
      Insurance
      $79-200 USD Please note: It is mandatory for all of our travelers to have Emergency Medical insurance that covers both emergency evacuation and repatriation to the sum of $200,000 USD. We also strongly recommend purchasing cancellation insurance as an add-on.
      Tipping
      We recommend $25 USD for your G Adventures tour leader, plus another $40–50 to tip drivers and other guides during your optional activities.
      Meals Not Listed in the Itinerary
      $420-550 USD
      Laundry, Drinks, Phone Calls, etc.
      Make sure you budget for these types of expenses
      Vaccines
      Variable. Please consult your doctor.
      Souvenirs
      Variable; at your personal discretion.
      Non-Educator Donation
      $100 USD (suggested donation) This is only for non-educator guests traveling with an educator on a GEEO trip. Educators and retired educators should not make this donation.

      Optional Activities

      Most optional activities are booked and paid for locally in the local currency. You do not have to decide in advance which activities you would like to sign up for. The prices listed are based on the latest information we have received from our participants and G Adventures. They are not guaranteed to be accurate. Please feel free to use them as a guide for budgeting your trip.
      Buenos Aires
      Bike Tour: $35 USD per person; email travel@geeo.org to pre-book Experience this vibrant city cruising around on a bicycle with a local Argentine. Bike, helmet, knowledgeable tour guide, they've got it all taken care of, just come along for the ride and take in the many historical sights on offer. Discover Plaza de Mayo, San Telmo, colorful Caminito, and the working class neighborhoods where Tango was born. Please note the bike tour begins at 10 a.m. We advise booking a pre-night in order to arrive on time for this pre-sold optional activity. If you choose to arrive the day of the bike tour, please ensure your flight lands no later than 8 a.m. to ensure enough time to make it to the meeting point (Carlos Pellegrini 1233). Teatro Colón Tour: $25 USD per person Explore this stunning opera house on a guided tour and find out why it is voted one of the best acoustic venues in the world. La Boca Neighborhood Visit: $10 USD per person Visit La Boca to soak in the vibrancy of the barrio’s brightly colored buildings and El Caminito (a cobblestone street lined with artist studios that is often used as an impromptu setting for tango performances). Or, if lucky, catch a match at the fabled La Bombonera, the home stadium of the Boca Juniors’ fútbol club (the crowd's excitement is electric!). City Tour: Price varies Enjoy a guided tour exploring beautiful, vibrant Buenos Aires. Be introduced to historic sites and districts, including Plaza de Mayo where Eva Peron's famed balcony presides over the square. See La Boca and San Telmo's colourful street life, painted houses, and the famed Recoleta Cemetery.
      Foz do Iguaçu
      Iguazú Falls Boat Tour, 1-2 hrs.: $75 USD per person Enter the jungle from the “Sendero Yacaratía” and enjoy the panoramic view. Board motorboats that pass through the Lower Canyon of the Iguazú River and continue to the falls for a view up close. Iguazú Helicopter Ride: $130 USD per person Fly above the roaring cascades of Iguazú Falls on a memorable helicopter ride to get a unique view and mind-blowing photo opportunities. Sit back in the comfortable seats, enjoy the ride, and let the experienced pilot guide you over the immense falls. Iguazú Falls Bird Park Visit: 120 BRL per person Grab a camera and get up close and personal with macaws, parrots, parakeets, and 150 other species of birds. Located on the Brazilian side of Iguazú Falls, the bird park is on 12 acres of native subtropical forest. Enter a huge aviary to see the birds free from cages and nets. Check out other exhibits to view butterflies, alligators, and snakes (boas and anacondas).
      Paraty
      Cachaça Distillery Visit: 160 BRL per person Tour a cachaça distillery where sugarcane juice is used to create the most popular distilled spirit in Brazil. If it tastes familiar, that's because it's the main ingredient in a Caipirinha, the country’s national cocktail. Often called “Brazilian rum,” cachaça is so popular it is produced by 40,000 micro-companies across the country. The blend from Paraty is sweet and salty; taste the sea as you sip this local liquid. Paraty Boat Tour: $25 USD per person; email travel@geeo.org to pre-book Home to hundreds of pristine islands and idyllic white sand beaches, it doesn't get much better than the Costa Verde. Cruise up the coast with a caipirinha in one hand and your camera in the other. Stop along the way to swim in the crystal clear waters or catch a few rays. Snorkeling equipment is provided for those wanting a peek at what is under the water's surface. Kayaking, 1-6 hrs.: 90 BRL per person See Paraty from a whole other level—sea level! Check out the spectacular views of the old town and the coastal mountain range, and explore otherwise inaccessible mangroves. Horseback Riding, 3-6 hrs.: 390 BRL per person Throw on some long pants, grab the reins, and hop up on a well-trained horse. Trail ride through the Atlantic rainforest in the mountains around Paraty. Cross rivers and follow trails lined with tropical trees. Reach a lookout where you can see the village and the water below. Stop at a waterfall and jump in! Let the rushing water massage your muscles, then hop back on the horses and gallop home. 4×4 Tour, 6-7.5 hrs.: 150 BRL per person Hop in the back of a jeep and hang on for this tropical tour. Enter the Serra da Bocaina National Park, visit waterfalls (great for photos and swimming), and step back in time along the Gold Trail road, constructed by African slaves to transport gold mined inland and transported to Paraty port bound for Portugal. Diving: Variable Brazil is a diver’s paradise. Its waters include a rich variety of fish, mammals, kelp, and coral. Spot brilliantly colored fish accented against the white sand ocean floor. Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, sea turtles, and nurse sharks. Paraty boasts at least ten locations recommended for SCUBA diving. Explore the waters off islands with exotic names—Cocos, Meros, Deserta—and add an unforgettable underwater adventure to your list of most memorable moments. Trindade Day Trip: 20 BRL per person Located about 15 miles away from Paraty is the small beach town of Trindade. Walk along the sandy beach, play in the water, and opt to go surfing.
      Ilha Grande
      Snorkeling Ilha Grande: Variable Rent a mask and snorkel, pull on some fins, and get set to enter the underwater world of colorful tropical fish, shells, and all things seaworthy. Hotspots include the Blue Lagoon, Green Lagoon, and Abraãzinho Beach. Luxuriate in the warm salt water, look down, and (in some cases) see to a depth of 50 ft. Hike to Pico do Papagaio, 6-7 hrs.: 150 BRL per person Enjoy a guided hike from Abraão to Pico do Papagaio, soaking in the scenery along the way. It will take roughly 4 hours to hike up and about 2 hours to hike back down. The panoramic views from the top are well worth the effort. Lopez Mendez Hike, 2.5-4 hrs.: Free Grab your bathing suit, slip on your walking shoes, and take the hike from Abraão to the beautiful beach of Lopes Mendes. Follow a well-marked trail up and down, through forest and past other beaches. Eat jackfruit picked along the way and drink water from a natural spring. Listen to howler monkeys. After 2.5-3 hrs, arrive at the stunning Lopes Mendes beach, where the white powder sand squeaks underfoot and the rolling green hills provide a stunning contrast to the turquoise water. Ilha Grande Boat Excursion, 4-5 hrs.: 130 BRL per person From the main village of Vila do Abraão, take a boat tour to some of the best beaches around the island. See tropical fish and cool off in the salt spray of the turquoise waters. Stop to swim and snorkel, and pinch yourself for being lucky enough to partake in this piece of tropical paradise. Enjoy the scenery while drinking a caipirinha, Brazil's national drink. Ilha Grande Diving: Variable Explore one of the world’s largest concentrations of underwater shipwrecks, many lost during pirate battles in the 16th-18th centuries in the waters off Ilha Grande. Dive to see the Pinguino cargo ship as well as the remains of a helicopter near Laja do Mataríz. Discover massive underwater caves, swim with schools of tropical fish, and admire the colors of coral reefs in the warm salt water where visibility varies from 20-70 ft.
      Rio de Janeiro
      Rio City Tour: 340 BRL per person There’s so much to see and do in this vibrant city pulsing with passion, music, and the waves of the sea. Take a city tour and visit some of Rio’s hot spots. Visit the art deco statue of Cristo Redentor (Christ the Redeemer) atop Corcovado Mountain, the colorful Lapa Steps, and the Rio Cathedral. Ride a cable car to the top of Sugarloaf Mountain and marvel at the magnificent views of the bay, city, and beaches beyond. Hang Gliding: 980 BRL per person Glide like a bird on this exhilarating and inspiring air adventure. Get all the guidance you need to go airborne with your instructor, and take to the skies for an unbeatable experience and amazing views of this incredibly picturesque city. Careful, you may become addicted to the freedom of flying! Football (Soccer) Game: 100-500 BRL per person If it's a game day, catch a football match to watch the local cheers for their team and join in the celebrations yourself.