Brazil
From the APE-cache to the Wild Pantanal to Iguazu Falls and Rio de Janeiro
17 days | Independent self-drive tour with domestic flights
Discover the incredible diversity of Brazil on an adventurous journey through spectacular natural landscapes, extraordinary wildlife habitats and vibrant cities. From the lush Atlantic rainforest of Parque Estadual Intervales to the vast wetlands of the Pantanal, the breathtaking Iguazu Falls and the world-famous beaches of Rio de Janeiro.
Nature takes centre stage on this journey. Search for wildlife, explore hidden gems, stay in unique accommodations and experience authentic Brazilian culture. Geocaching also has a special place on this itinerary, including a visit to one of the world's rare Project APE geocaches.
A varied and unforgettable adventure for travellers who love nature, wildlife, exploration and extraordinary experiences.
Travel Itinerary
Day 1 | Departure for Brazil
Depart from Brussels for São Paulo, with a connecting flight along the way. After an overnight flight, you arrive in Brazil the following morning, ready to begin an unforgettable adventure.
Days 2-3 | Parque Estadual Intervales: Rainforest and Geocaching
Upon arrival in São Paulo, collect your rental car and drive to Parque Estadual Intervales, a beautiful protected nature reserve in the Atlantic rainforest.
This lesser-known corner of Brazil is home to remarkable biodiversity, with dense forests, waterfalls, caves and countless bird species. Enjoy scenic hikes and discover the fascinating natural surroundings with local guides.
For geocachers, Intervales is an absolute highlight. The park is home to one of the few remaining Project APE geocaches in the world, a very special cache with a unique place in geocaching history.
Even without geocaching, Intervales is a wonderful destination for nature lovers who enjoy exploring beyond the usual tourist routes.
Accommodation: 2 nights in Parque Estadual Intervales.
Day 4 | From São Paulo to Campo Grande
Leave the rainforest behind and drive back to São Paulo, where you return your rental car and take a domestic flight to Campo Grande.
This city is the gateway to the southern Pantanal, one of the largest tropical wetlands in the world.
After arrival, spend the night in a comfortable hotel before continuing your adventure the following day.
Accommodation: 1 night in Campo Grande.
Day 5 | Into the Pantanal: Surrounded by Nature
After breakfast, collect another rental car and head towards the Pantanal.
Along the way, the scenery gradually changes as you travel through the vast landscapes of the Brazilian countryside. Your destination is a charming ecolodge, beautifully situated in the heart of nature.
The Pantanal is famous for its extraordinary wildlife. Thanks to its open landscapes and extensive waterways, this region offers excellent opportunities for observing animals in their natural habitat.
After arrival, relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. The coming days will be entirely dedicated to nature and adventure.
Accommodation: 4 nights at Refúgio da Ilha Ecolodge or similar.
Days 6-8 | Wildlife and Adventure in the Pantanal
Three full days to explore the incredible natural beauty of the Pantanal.
During guided excursions, search for the many animals that inhabit this extraordinary ecosystem. Capybaras, caimans, giant otters, toucans and colourful macaws are among the species you may encounter. With a little luck, you might spot some rarer wildlife too.
Depending on the season and the activities offered by the lodge, you can enjoy boat trips, nature walks, horseback riding or other outdoor adventures.
Birdwatchers will also find plenty to enjoy. The Pantanal is a true paradise for anyone who loves observing and photographing wildlife.
Between excursions, take time to relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of your lodge, surrounded by nature.
These days will undoubtedly be among the highlights of your Brazilian adventure.
Day 9 | From the Pantanal to Dourados
After breakfast, say goodbye to the Pantanal and continue your journey through the Brazilian countryside.
The route takes you past vast landscapes, agricultural areas and small towns, offering a glimpse into everyday life away from the country's better-known tourist destinations.
Spend the night in Dourados, a convenient stop on the way to Iguazu Falls.
Accommodation: 1 night in Dourados.
Day 10 | Towards the Spectacular Iguazu Falls
Today, continue to Foz do Iguaçu, located near the meeting point of Brazil, Argentina and Paraguay.
Here, one of South America's most spectacular natural wonders awaits: Iguazu Falls.
Hundreds of waterfalls cascade over a stretch of almost three kilometres, surrounded by lush subtropical rainforest.
After arrival, check into your hotel and enjoy the tropical surroundings.
Accommodation: 3 nights in Foz do Iguaçu.
Day 11 | Discovering the Brazilian Side of Iguazu Falls
Today, visit the Brazilian side of Iguazu National Park.
Follow scenic walking trails and viewing platforms offering breathtaking panoramic views of the waterfalls. From the Brazilian side, you can admire the sheer scale and beauty of this extraordinary natural wonder.
The absolute highlight is the Garganta do Diabo, or Devil's Throat, where enormous volumes of water plunge into the gorge with incredible force.
For those seeking even more adventure, an optional boat trip offers the chance to experience the waterfalls from up close.
The surrounding rainforest is equally fascinating, with opportunities to spot coatis, colourful birds and butterflies along the way.
Day 12 | Exploring the Argentine Side of Iguazu Falls
Today, cross the border into Argentina to experience the waterfalls from a completely different perspective.
On the Argentine side, an extensive network of trails and walkways takes you alongside, above and between the waterfalls.
Here, you can experience the incredible power of the water from remarkably close range. Different walking circuits lead to spectacular viewpoints surrounded by lush tropical vegetation.
The Brazilian and Argentine sides complement each other perfectly. While the Brazilian side offers magnificent panoramic views, the Argentine side allows you to experience the waterfalls from much closer.
An unforgettable encounter with one of nature's greatest wonders!
Day 13 | From Iguazu to Rio de Janeiro
After breakfast, drive to Foz do Iguaçu Airport, where you return your rental car.
A domestic flight takes you to Rio de Janeiro, one of South America's most famous and beautiful cities.
Rio enjoys a spectacular setting between green mountains, tropical rainforest and the Atlantic Ocean. The city is known for its lively atmosphere, beautiful beaches and iconic landmarks.
Upon arrival, transfer to your accommodation, preferably in the vibrant neighbourhoods of Ipanema or Copacabana.
Enjoy your first walk along the beach and soak up the relaxed Brazilian atmosphere.
Accommodation: 3 nights in Rio de Janeiro.
Day 14 | Rio de Janeiro: Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf Mountain
Today, discover some of Rio de Janeiro's most famous attractions.
A visit to the impressive Christ the Redeemer statue on Corcovado Mountain is an absolute must. From here, enjoy fantastic views over the city, its beaches and the surrounding mountains.
Sugarloaf Mountain is another highlight. Take the cable car to the summit and admire the spectacular panorama over Guanabara Bay.
Along the way, discover Rio's unique setting, where dramatic natural landscapes and vibrant city life come together.
End the day with a delicious dinner at one of the city's many inviting restaurants.
Day 15 | Rio de Janeiro: Colourful Neighbourhoods and Famous Beaches
Today, you have plenty of time to explore Rio at your own pace.
Wander through the colourful Santa Teresa neighbourhood, admire the famous Selarón Steps or discover the city's historic centre.
Nature lovers may prefer an excursion to Tijuca National Park, an extensive tropical rainforest located within the city.
Of course, no visit to Rio would be complete without spending some time at the world-famous beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema.
For geocachers, Rio also offers plenty of opportunities to discover the city in a different way, often leading to interesting places that might otherwise go unnoticed.
A wonderful conclusion to this varied journey through Brazil.
Days 16-17 | Return Journey to Belgium
Depending on your flight schedule, enjoy one final walk or a relaxing morning in Rio de Janeiro.
Transfer to the airport for your return flight to Europe, arriving in Belgium on day 17.
An unforgettable journey filled with spectacular nature, extraordinary wildlife, adventurous discoveries and vibrant Brazilian culture comes to an end.
Highlights of This Journey
Explore the pristine Atlantic rainforest of Parque Estadual Intervales.
Visit one of the world's rare Project APE geocaches.
Spend four nights surrounded by nature in the southern Pantanal.
Search for capybaras, caimans, giant otters and colourful birds during guided wildlife excursions.
Admire the spectacular Iguazu Falls from both the Brazilian and Argentine sides.
Discover Rio de Janeiro, including Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf Mountain and its famous beaches.
Combine nature, wildlife, culture and geocaching in one unforgettable adventure.
Practical Information
Duration: 17 days / 14 nights
Travel style: Independent tailor-made tour
Transport: Rental cars and domestic flights
Accommodation: Comfortable hotels, small-scale lodges and an ecolodge
Best time to travel: May to September, particularly suitable for wildlife viewing in the Pantanal
Travel themes: Nature, wildlife, adventure, culture and geocaching
Departure dates: On request
Price: On request, depending on travel dates, accommodation and personal preferences
A Journey Tailored to You
This itinerary is inspired by a journey we experienced ourselves, during which we discovered some of Brazil's most beautiful and extraordinary places.
Would you like to spend more time in the Pantanal, explore additional nature reserves, extend your stay in Rio de Janeiro or include special geocaches along the way? We would be happy to adapt the itinerary to your personal interests and wishes.
At Palarunca Travel, we believe that the most memorable travel experiences often happen when you venture beyond the classic tourist highlights.
Let this journey inspire you and discover the incredible diversity of Brazil with us!
Palarunca Travel: Travel is our passion, discovering our second nature.