The Brazil Experience

Rio de Janeiro

There aren’t very many places in the world where you can feel the vibe of a real carnival, go to the top of a mountain to see a World Wonder, and be amazed by the lush landscapes in one of the best beach-life experiences in the world.

Join us on our 7-day exploration to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. We will experience the country’s culture on the days preceding Carnival, in a way that goes beyond everything you’ve been told about this festivity and this gem in South America. You can’t call yourself a bougie traveler until you have experienced the out-of-this-world energetic vibe of Copacabana and its legendary beaches. Check out our client photos at #UITALBrazil.

Do you hear that? That’s the sound of samba music and dancing Cariocas announcing the parade is about to start. Brazil has the largest population of Africans from the diaspora, and these African and Portuguese influences pour into the food, the culture, and the vibe. The soundtrack of drums and the festival energy will touch your soul and keep you moving during the entire experience.

And you didn’t come snatched for anything! The pics you will snap of your melanin poppin’ drinking a Caipirinha while viewing the sunset over Sugarloaf mountain, or eating fresh watermelon and roasted cheese on Copacabana Beach will be enough to shut down the gram, for sure!

Whether you are soaking in the vibes of Brazil, learning about history and culture, enjoying a sunbath on the Beach, or taking in the breathtaking views of the city – the energy and the music will make you feel blessed to experience the true beauty of Rio.

The samba rhythm, a deep dive into Brazilian culture, new friends, and award-winning restaurants await you on your Up in the Air Life journey to Brazil.

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Here's your trip at a glance.

WHERE YOU'LL GO

From enjoying one of the best beach services in the world to visiting must-see world-wonder Christ the Redeemer, this trip offers a wide variety of scenery (and selfie) options. You'll also visit Sugarloaf mountain, the Selaron steps, take in samba rehearsals, and a lose yourself in the incredible Street Graffiti Art section at Maua square.

WHAT YOU'LL DO

This trip is your chance to be classy, bougie, and a little ratchet. From high-end and local dining, where you'll taste the best beef in the world, to soaking in the vibes of Carnival Bloco parties while you learn to dance from the locals, you will experience the spectrum of Brazil's multifaceted culture on this once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

WHERE YOU'LL STAY

Our accommodation is over the top. Right in front of Copacabana beach, enjoy your champagne brunch at the hotel with magnificent views from the pool. Walking around the hotel is pretty much on fire: only the very best awaits you.

Explore the day-by-day itinerary.

THIS TRIP IS FOR YOU, IF:

THIS TRIP IS NOT FOR YOU, IF:

Day 1

Arrive in style in Rio (RIG). Our private Up in the Air Life drivers will whisk you away to your luxury beachfront hotel in Rio De Janeiro.

After your long flight, it’s time to unwind after you check in to take a swim, grab an acai or caipirinha in Lapa, and explore Rio’s most iconic beach neighborhood. At nightfall, we’ll get dinner together at a Michelin-starred restaurant with the city’s best views, having a gastronomic experience in nature.

Later we’ll gather for a true Carioca night with a visit to the infamous Selaron steps in Lapa, following a private tour at Lapa at night. Explore Rio’s greatest nightlife district for Brazilian food, live music, and dancing!

Day 2

Locals meet their friends at the beach in Brazil by letting them know which numbered post they are seated near, and the location of our post is one of the most popular. Join us to spot swimmers along with bodybuilders, guys, and gals playing pickup soccer or volleyball and samba performers while you sunbathe in the warm South American sun. We’ll recommend spa treatments to indulge yourself if you want to skip the shared beach time.

Tonight we’ll have an early dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant for pan-Asian fusion cuisine mixed with local flavors.

At nightfall, prepare to experience an authentic Brazilian Samba School where you’ll feel a strong connection with Africa.

Day 3

After replenishing yourself with a delicious breakfast, the day will start with a visit to Pedra Do Sal for the Samba Street Party in an area referred to as Little Africa to indulge in fine music and strong caipirinhas. Preach!

We’ll head back to the hotel’s Infamous brunch that includes a spread fit for a King and Queen and unlimited bubbly.

In the afternoon, we will explore Rio De Janeiro’s local hippie market to buy arts and crafts, where the city’s authentic artisans show off their work.

To enjoy another side of Rio’s Carnival as we make our way to the most famous Black Brazilian Street Bloco Party in Rio for an evening of music, dancing, flirting and socializing with Cariocas in one of Rio’s most beautiful parks until late.

Day 4

After lots of action-packed fun so far, so today we’re going to up the vibe! Sign up for an optional tour to discover the behind-the-scenes of the greatest Carnaval in the world! Have a unique and authentic experience exploring the backstage, costume making, the secrets, the people working, and the preparations for the parade!

After lunch on your own, we’ll visit Praca Maua for the amazing Street Art & Mural Outdoor Exhibition. There you will see cool murals and vibrant street art with a backdrop of magnificent beaches. Did someone say selfie time?

For sunset, we’ll head to Sugarloaf Mountain, a world heritage site by Unesco, and grab a cocktail while we soak up the city’s most breathtaking views.

Day 5

Today we’ll take your Up in the Air Life experience sky-high. After a sumptuous breakfast at our luxurious hotel, get ready to be dazzled by World-Wonder, Christ the Redeemer. We’ll snag a ticket aboard the red-hued tram to Corcovado in the Tijuca Forest National Park to get there.

After our last lunch together, we’ll explore the beauty of the beautiful Parque Lage, a public park in the city with a beautiful green-toned pool where you can snap your most Instagram-worthy pics!

Day 6

Relaxation awaits as you take a day to rest and recharge those batteries. It’s the perfect time to reflect, get breakfast in bed or by the pool at your leisure, catch up with people you’ve met in Rio, or connect with the others on your trip. With the beach & boutique shopping steps away, our location is the perfect time to soak in more Rio vibes.

Your intimate farewell dinner will be at our favorite cooking school with a quintessential Carioca.

We’ll start with a signature Brazilian cocktail, then be schooled on making a Carioca meal from scratch.

Day 7

Rise and shine for an optional self-guided tour or visit your favorite shops. Ask your tour leader for recommendations!

Private drivers will sadly whisk you away to the airport (RIG) where you’ll begin your journey home.

Our trip to Brazil was fantastic. Up in the Air Life puts a tremendous amount of thought into every detail of the trip, from getting to and from the airport, to getting around town, to the best places to eat. Tony and Rasheed are top-notch onsite staff and our local guide was amazing. Combine all of that with an amazing hotel and incredible weather for exploring or just laying on Copacabana Beach. Not only did we did we have a fun and relaxing vacation, we came home with a new appreciation and love for the people and culture in Rio--we'll definitely be back, and look forward to seeing new places with Up in the Air Life!

George Jackson

I had a good time and was able to carve out my own vacation on my Birthday.I enjoyed myself immensely and had no regrets about going out of the country on my own with Up in the Air Life.The staff was knowledgeable and nurturing. I felt safe the entire time. My roommate was awesome too!

Shiesha Oliver-Wachira

YOU CAN ALWAYS EXPECT TO:

Connect with amazing people.

We provide the opportunity to make friendships with people who share your worldview and won't ask why you wear a bonnet to sleep.

Experience attentive and authentic hospitality.

Not only is the staff of Up in the Air Life dedicated to making sure your trip is flawlessly executed, but we are also intentional about choosing locales and vendors who celebrate Black travelers.

Be pampered with only the best.

There is no need to take a break from your baller lifestyle when you travel with us. Our lodging, excursions, and dining are pure luxury.

Feel safe and secure.

Our experienced American guides and well-maintained local relationships mean that you will have peace of mind when you travel with us.

Say "goodbye" to FOMO.

Our trips are anything but basic. While we make sure you see well-known main attractions, we also develop itineraries that will give you unique stories to share with your friends back home.

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