Overview
Our program brings you the best of both worlds: the consistency you rely on and the flexibility your group needs.
Bring your class to discover the vibrant culture of Brazil on this journey from São Paulo to Rio de Janeiro. Your students will discover the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Paraty, hike through a stunning portion of the rainforest near Trindade, and relax on one of the world’s most famous beaches at Lopes Mendes. Your group will also ascend Sugarloaf Mountain, take a samba class, and join a local soccer squad for a friendly game on a sunny Rio beach.
Itinerary
Day 1
Overnight flight to Brazil (São Paulo)
Day 2
Arrive in São Paulo
Meet your Tour Director
Your 24-hour Tour Director will meet you at the airport and remain with your group until your final airport departure.
São Paulo guided sightseeing tour
São Paulo, Brazil’s vibrant financial centre, is one of the most populous cities in the world and a hub of culture and architecture. Its iconic landmarks include the neo-Gothic Cathedral of São Paulo, the colonial-style Pátio do Colégio where Jesuit priests founded the city in 1554, the 1929 Martinelli skyscraper, and Oscar Niemeyer’s curvy Edifício Copan. You’ll also visit Luz Station, a striking example of 19th-century railway architecture, and the ornate Municipal Theater, a centre for classical music and opera. São Paulo ranks eighth globally for the number of high-rise buildings, reflecting its dynamic and modern skyline.
Day 3
Travel to Paraty via Cunha
Lavender fields of Cunha visit
Paraty city walk
The city of Paraty, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is located halfway between São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro. Most of its charming historic downtown dates back to the 18th century, though its origins trace to its founding in 1531. The pedestrian-friendly streets invite exploration of its coastal and mountain scenery, or a journey inland to the lush Atlantic rainforest.
Day 4
Trindade excursion
Travel to paradise by way of Trindade, a coastal village just outside Paraty. Hike through part of the Atlantic Rainforest and discover stunning beaches and scenic beauty. Stop at Cepilho Beach, a surfer’s paradise, visit heart-shaped Meio Beach, and from Caixa D’Aço Beach, explore nearby natural pools that are perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
Day 5
Travel to Ilha Grande by boat
Free time at the beach
Day 6
Lopes Mendes excursion
Enjoy a rewarding and scenic hike along part of the island as you follow the T10 trail toward Lopes Mendes Beach, passing by Palmas, Mangues, and Pouso Beach. Lopes Mendes is considered one of the most stunning beaches in the world, with fine white sand and crystal-clear waters that captivate all who visit. The beach is ideal for both swimming and surfing. Discover hidden treasures like a small creek that flows into the ocean and a chapel featuring a mosaic by Silvio Cavalheiro.
Day 7
Travel to Rio de Janeiro by boat
Rio de Janeiro guided sightseeing tour
Theatro Municipal, Paço Imperial, Praca XV de Novembro, Cathedral Metropolitana, Corcovado Mountain ascent via cogwheel train
Play soccer with a local team
Soccer or football is an integral part of Brazil's national identity. Connect with a team of local enthusiasts to play a game on the beach.
Day 8
Corcovado Mountain ascent via cogwheel train
Experience Rio’s most spectacular landmark up close. Ride a Swiss-made cogwheel train up Corcovado ("hunchback") Mountain, passing through the lush Tijuca National Forest. At the summit, marvel at the statue of Christ the Redeemer, which gazes out over the city. The views are breathtaking, and the statue itself is impressive, standing nearly 100 feet tall and weighing over 1,000 tons.
Sugarloaf Mountain ascent
Jump in what may be your most spectacular glass-elevator ride ever. Sugarloaf Mountain (named because it resembles the ceramic mold used to refine sugar cane) rises up from the intersection of Guanabara Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. You'll take a glass-sided cable car up the peak, where you'll find amazing views of the entire city and beyond.
Samba dance class
Brazilian folklore evening
Indulge in the flavors, sounds, and sights of traditional Brazilian culture, from samba dancing to capoeira martial arts.
Day 9
Return home
TourFlex: Your Experience, Your Way
With TourFlex, available for tours departing October 2027 or later, you get the flexibility to shape an itinerary that's as unique as your group. Dial your trip up or down for more choice, more control, and more unforgettable hands-on moments, all while getting the right experience at the right value. Available options vary by program and destination.
Explore Your Way
- Add experiences like theatre tickets or unique excursions
- Swap activities for ones that better serve your group
- Extend the learning through go-aheads or stay-behinds
Go Your Way
- Choose the most accessible departure airport for your group
- Opt for 2-, 3-, or 4-star hotels that are centrally located or a convenient ride to major itinerary attractions
Dine Your Way
- Opt for pre-selected meals or encourage exploration by dining on your own
- Enjoy 2-3 course, culturally representative meals or opt for 3-course, authentic dinners at local restaurants
Already Included
WorldStrides Tour Director: A dynamic destination expert who makes learning come to life by leading your group's activities and discussions.
Transportation to & from your destination
Hotel accommodations
Daily meals, with options varying by program (ask your Program Consultant for details)
Admissions to top attractions (details in itinerary)
Guided sightseeing tours & city walks (details in itinerary)
Tips for local guides and drivers (excluding full-day bus drivers and Tour Director)
WorldAssist staff members available 24/7/365 should your group need extra help
Free academic credit for eligible Ontario-based students. Ask your Program Consultant for details.
Scenes from Brazil
Health & Safety
Additional health and safety measures may be available within your respective destination. Refer to your program-specific materials for complete details.
Financial Assistance
Financial Assistance
Through the WorldStrides Canada Financial Assistance Program (FAP), we provide travel grants to elementary and secondary school facing financial hardship. These grants, which can be up to $250 for coach tours and up to $1,000 for flight tours, are designed to make our programs more accessible to students from all backgrounds. Interested families are encouraged to speak with their school to learn more about our confidential application process.
Payment Plans
Monthly Automated Plan
Enroll with a deposit of $99 plus the cost of your travel protection plan (if included). We’ll automatically debit the rest of your tour fee from your chequing account in equal monthly payments, with the final payment due 35 days before you travel.
Please note: If two consecutive payments are declined, your account will be moved to the 4-Step Manual Plan.
4-Step Manual Plan
Manage your payments manually with a $249 initial payment plus your travel protection plan costs (if included). You’ll then make three more payments at key milestones as your departure date approaches. The final balance is due 65 days before your trip.
Please note: Payments on this plan are not automatically deducted and must be made manually.
Fundraising Tools
We are committed to helping you make your educational travel dreams a reality. We offer a comprehensive Fundraising Guide packed with creative ideas, tips, and resources to help you and your students reach your fundraising goals. From setting a timeline to brainstorming innovative campaigns, our guide provides a structured approach to make fundraising a fun and engaging experience for everyone involved.