Soul, Samba and Sea: Journey to Heart of Brazil

With a rich Afro-Brazilian heritage, Salvador, the capital of Bahia, is a vibrant city where African and South American cultures blend. Salvador served as Brazil's first capital from 1549 to 1763, and its UNESCO-listed historic centre, Pelourinho, bursts with cobblestone streets and colourful colonial buildings. Jorge Amado, a beloved literary figure, is celebrated at his former home, now the museum A Casa do Rio Vermelho.

Itacaré, a charming coastal town in southern Bahia, has miles of pristine white sand beaches luring surfers and bodyboarders. The town's laidback charm is evident in its vibrant cobblestone streets which resonate with lively Afro-Brazilian beats pouring from local bars, complemented by the rhythmic movements of capoeira dancers showcasing their martial art skills. Artisan shops and eateries serving up diverse cuisines complete the scene.

Trancoso, a tiny beach town, once a quaint fishing village near Praia do Espelho on Bahia's south coast, has transformed into a boho chic destination. Amid the lush Atlantic rainforest, eco-friendly pousadas and bohemian hotels now line its pristine beaches offering an idyllic retreat to relax and embrace the natural beauty of Brazil's northeastern coast surrounded by local flora and fauna.

The Abrolhos Archipelago, comprises five islands within the Abrolhos Marine National Park, off Bahia. Only one island, Siriba, is open to visitors, offering rich biodiversity, extensive coral reefs and serving as a humpback whale breeding ground. It's also a habitat for leatherback and loggerhead sea turtles, as well as threatened bird species, such as masked and brown boobies, frigatebirds, red-billed tropicbirds, sooty terns and brown noddies.

Known as the St. Tropez of Brazil, this fashionable resort town attracts Rio's wealthy with its 23 breathtaking beaches tucked into coves along the coastline. Once a quaint fishing village, it now boasts fancy shops, boutiques, excellent restaurants and a European vibe. Don't miss trying some of the signature caipirinha cocktails!

Pulsating with energy, Rio de Janeiro wows with sensational beaches and a dazzling mountain backdrop cloaked in tropical forest. A cable car glides up Sugarloaf Mountain, while a cog train heads to Corcovado's peak and the towering Christ statue overlooking the city. Copacabana and Ipanema are perfect for lounging on the sand and people-watching. No visit is complete without a caipirinha cocktail amid Rio's lively bars with a carnival vibe.

Itineraries are subject to change.