FESTIVAL
BRAZIL: RIO CARNIVAL
MEMORABLE MOMENTS
• Cruise high in a cable car to Experience the
Sugar Loaf Mountain world-renowned
• Join the party at an authentic Carnival Parade at
neighborhood Blocos, or block party the Sambadrome
• Jump into an electrifying Carnival
percussion workshop
• Explore the Tijuca Forest via
an open-air jeep
• Hop a train to tour Cristo Redentor
(Christ the Redeemer) statue
TRIP AT A GLANCE FESTIVAL
7 Days / 6 Nights
PHYSICAL DEMAND
Moderate
GROUP SIZE
Average 6, Maximum 16
LODGING
Standard
RIO DE JANEIRO BRAZIL: RIO CARNIVAL
DAY 1 - Explore the tropical Tijuca Forest via
an open-air jeep OUR PURPOSE
DAY 2 - Hop aboard a cogwheel train to Often called Cidade Maravilhosa (The Marvelous City) Rio de Janeiro
reach the Christ the Redeemer statue and is unmatched in its breathtaking landscapes and location, nestled
later enjoy a private Brazilian cooking class between lush, green mountains and crystal-clear seas. Rio is one of the
most culturally and economically prominent cities in Brazil and features
DAY 3 - Cruise high in a cable car to Sugar some of the country’s most famous tourist attractions such as Pão de
Loaf Mountain, dine with breathtaking views Açúcar (Sugarloaf Mountain), Christo Redentor (Christ the Redeemer
and experience the world-renowned Carnival statue), and the iconic beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema. The city
Parade at the Sambadrome is full of energy and rhythm, and the locals of Rio are known for their
carefree spirit and charm.
DAY 4 - Experience a personalized Carnival
costume fitting at one of Rio’s renowned Carnival de Rio de Janeiro is a hallmark of the city and is considered
Samba Schools to be the largest Carnival in the world. Dating back to the 18th century,
today’s Carnival festivities see an estimated two million people per day
DAY 5 - Immerse yourself in local culture at on the streets. Visitors and residents alike can marvel at the throngs of
an authentic neighborhood Blocos, dancers, musicians, and floats in both the formal Samba school parade
or block parties as well as more informal Blocos (block parties).
DAY 6 - Peek behind the scenes of Carnival Traveling to Carnival with Discover Corps is an experience unlike any
with a tour of the Grande Rio Samba School other. Our expert guide will ensure you experience the festivities like a
warehouse, learn to salsa, and engage in an local, with behind-the-scenes access to a leading local samba school,
electrifying percussion workshop percussion workshops, and local neighborhood celebrations. Enjoy
the best that Rio has to offer with this unique, unforgettable Discover
DAY 7 - Return home or continue on the
Corps experience!
post-trip extension to Iguazu Falls
IGUAZU EXTENSION
DAY 7 - Take a short flight to Foz Du Iguacu
and visit the famed Iguazu Falls
DAY 8 - Experience the jungle wildlife in
an open-sided jeep followed by a thrilling
boat ride down the river and into the falls’
magnificent spray
DAY 9 - Explore Iguaçu National Park via
train, and trek to the suspended platform at
the edge of Devil’s Throat – the largest of the
waterfalls!
DAY 10 - Return home
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FESTIVAL
DISCOVER THE RIO CARNIVAL
Rio de Janeiro’s world-famous Carnival is an extraordinary, boisterous five-day celebration of singing,
dancing, and community. This party begins on Friday and continues through the Tuesday before Ash
Wednesday, a significant Catholic tradition which signals the start of Lent. Millions of people attend this
extravagant event every year, taking to the streets for impromptu Blocos (block parties) and packing the
Sambodromo, home of the famous and fiercely competitive Samba Parade. Visitors can expect to see larger
than life floats, throngs of dancers and musicians numbering into the thousands, decadent food and drink,
richly textured costumes, and elegantly dressed guests and celebrities attending one of Carnival’s luxurious
balls at spots like the Copacabana Palace Hotel.
FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS
COSTUMES SAMBA DANCING
It’s hard to think about Carnival without imagining the rich The pulsating rhythms of the samba are a true
textures, sequins, feathers, and other costume adornments component of Brazil’s cultural heritage. Samba is the
sported by dancers and spectators alike. As a Discover most prevalent type of dance in Brazil and is seen as
Corps guest, you will be fitted for your own costume and unifier of all classes, races, and regions.
join a local samba school for these festivities.
PARADE FLOATS BLOCOS (block parties)
You’ve never seen floats quite as lavish and extravagant Although the samba parade is considered to be the
as Brazil’s Carnival parade floats! Each of these main event, Carnival wouldn’t be complete without its
enormous spectacles is associated with a theme and is street parties, called blocos (block parties). Blocos are a
an important part of the samba parade storytelling. fantastic way to experience Carnival like a native.
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FESTIVAL
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
TIJUCA FOREST CHRIST THE REDEEMER STATUE
Start your trip with a tour of the world’s largest urban No visit to Rio de Janeiro is complete without visiting one
forest, via an open-air jeep. This stunning park cuts across of Brazil’s most recognizable wonders: Cristo Redentor,
Rio de Janeiro with hundreds of waterfalls, caves, lakes, or Christ the Redeember statue. Your journey begins in
and remnants of once thriving farms. Keep an eye out for the quaint residential neighborhood of Cosme Velho,
one of the countless animals that call the Tijuca Forest where you’ll hop aboard a small cogwheel train to ascend
home, including birds, reptiles, monkeys, capibaras, the lush, beautiful Corcovado Mountain. Once atop the
wild cats, bush dogs, sloths, and anteaters. Have your summit, you’ll enjoy stunning panoramic views of Rio
camera ready for spectacular views, including the Chinese de Janeiro beneath the 30m tall modern Wonder of the
Belvedere and the Taunay waterfall. World.
PÃO DE AÇÚCAR THE SAMBADROME
(SUGAR LOAF MOUNTAIN) The spectacular Samba Parade is THE main attraction of
Visit the world famous Pão de Açúcar (Sugar Loaf Carnival in Rio and is broadcast throughout Brazil and
Mountain), an iconic natural landmark of Rio de Janeiro. to dozens of countries around the world! Over 90,000
Named for its resemblance to a loaf of refined sugar, you’ll spectators can gather in the Sambadrome’s grandstands
reach its summit via a glass-walled cable car. Your first to witness the fierce competition between twelve samba
stop is the top of Urca Hill, with its breathtaking views of schools, each with thousands of dancers, drum sections,
Guanabara Bay and its islands. From Urca Hill, you’ll catch and floats. Performances take place over four evenings,
a second cable car to the top of Sugar Loaf where you’ll each beginning around 7 p.m. and continuing until 6 a.m.
be treated to a 360-degree view of the city. the following day.
WHY TRAVEL WITH DISCOVER CORPS?
• Go behind the scenes of Grande Rio Samba School and learn • Get exclusive “fresa boxes”, or access to the front four rows,
the secrets of the Carnival magic. during the Carnival parade
• Be guests of a leading local Samba school, join in on the parade • Be escorted by an expert Discover Corps guide who will take
in front of thousands of spectators, enjoy neighborhood you behind-the-scenes & show you the best Rio has to offer
celebrations and engage percussion workshops
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FESTIVAL
ITINERARY
DAY 1: Arrive and take a jeep tour
of the Tijuca Forest
Arrive in Rio de Janeiro and embark with your guide on an
open-air jeep tour of the Tijuca Forest. Check-in to the four-
star Portobay Rio de Janeiro before setting off for dinner at the
unparalleled Assador Rio. This top-rated Brazilian rodizio style
barbeque is known for its prime ribs –grilled for 10 hours– and its
unobstructed views of Guanabara Bay, Sugar Loaf Mountain, and
the Burle Max gardens. (D)
DAY 2: Train ride and tour of Christ’s Statue,
private Brazilian cooking class
After breakfast, we’ll hop aboard a cogwheel train in Cosme
Velho, climbing the summit of Corcovado to reach the Christ the
Redeemer Statue. Bask in the spectacular panoramic view of Rio
de Janeiro beneath the nearly 30 meter tall statue.
Later that afternoon, discover the mysteries of Brazilian cuisine
during a private cooking class. Learn how the Indigenous, black,
and Portuguese people influenced the country’s cuisine and learn
to cook a typical Brazilian dish. (B,L,D)
DAY 3: Take a cable car to Sugar Loaf
Mountain, dine at Classico restaurant, and
enjoy the world-renowned Carnival Parade
at the Sambadrome
We’ll start our day with a cable car ride to Pão de Açúcar (Sugar
Loaf Mountain), one of Rio de Janeiro’s most iconic landmarks.
Along the way, we’ll stop atop Urca Hill for a truly unique lunch
experience at Classico restaurant. Later that evening we head
for the spectacular, highly competitive Samba Parade at the
Sambadrome, considered to be the main attraction of Carnival.
(B,L,D)
DAY 4: Experience a personalized Carnival
costume fitting and participate in the Carnival
in Rio parade
Craft your own leisurely morning so you’re ready for an all-night
Carnival party! Enjoy dinner you’re your group at Fogo de Chão
before becoming the honored guest of one of Rio’s renowned
Samba Schools. You’ll be fitted with your own Carnival costume
to participate in the unforgettable Carnival in Rio parade at the
Sambadrome. This is a one-of-a-kind exclusive Discover Corps
experience that allows you to rub shoulders with a leading local
samba school and actually join the Carnival parade! (B,D)
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FESTIVAL
DAY 5: Join a neighborhood block party and
enjoy an upscale dinner at Giuseppe Grill
Jump right in to the fun at one of Rio’s many Blocos (block
parties). These spontaneous local gatherings are the perfect way
to experience the joy and electricity of Carnival in a more casual
setting. You’ll also get a unique behind-the-scenes view into how
locals celebrate Carnival! Later that evening, we’ll dine together
at the upscale Giuseppe Grill in the exclusive neighborhood of
Leblon. Specializing in charcoal-grilled barbecue and seafood,
Giuseppe’s offers what many consider to be the best steak in Rio
de Janeiro. (B,L,D)
DAY 6: Go behind the scenes of the
Carnival tour and join a Samba and
percussion workshop
Continue your immersion in Carnival culture with intimate,
behind-the-scenes experiences exploring the artistry and
imagination involved in the creation of Carnival. We’ll get up close
with gigantic floats, learn the history of Samba and Carnival,
and try on a past Carnival costume before stepping into a basic
samba lesson and percussion workshop. We’ll dine together
at Confeitaria Colombo before going our separate ways for an
afternoon of leisure and one last sunset during our relaxing
Farewell Dinner. (B,L,D)
DAY 7: Return home
After enjoying one last breakfast at your hotel, we’ll say our
goodbyes and transfer you back to the airport for your flight
home or continue on to the post-trip extension to Iguazu Falls.
(B)
PREMIER LODGING
Located in the heart of Copacabana, the Portobay Rio de Janeiro
hotel boasts stylish accommodations, a beautiful waterfront
setting, and easy access to the world-famous Copacabana
Beach. Enjoy gorgeous views from your own private balcony
and amenities including a rooftop pool with panoramic views,
sauna, fitness center, and a spa. You also have access to the
hotel’s exclusive guest-only beach with lounge chairs, umbrellas,
and towels. Portobay also offers multiple onsite dining options
including the full-service Restaurant La Finestra, poolside Bossa
Lounge, and Bar Negroni (Note: Hotel subject to change based
on final availability).
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FESTIVAL
OPTIONAL EXTENSION:
DAY 7: Experience Iguazu Falls from just across
the border in Argentina
Depart on a short flight from Rio de Janeiro for Foz do Iguacu,
or Iguazu Falls, where you’ll meet your Discover Corps guide for
lunch. Take a short drive across the border to the Argentinian
side of the famed Iguazu Falls, one of the largest waterfalls in
the world. Indulge in an authentic, hands-on dinner experience,
complete with a selection of Argentine wines.
DAY 8: Explore the falls with your expert guide
by land, boat, and jeep
Get up close and personal with the Brazilian side of Iguazu Falls.
Your guide will take you along the walkways where you can
capture spectacular panoramic views. We’ll continue our day in
an open-sided jeep riding through the jungle in search of local
wildlife. We cap off the adventure with a thrilling boat ride down
the river and into the falls’ magnificent spray
DAY 9: Continue your exploration via train
and unique walking paths
After breakfast, we’ll head to the Argentinian side of the falls via
the Tancredo Neves Bridge. Explore Iguaçu National Park via train,
making stops at the upper and lower circuits. Your guide will take
you along the walkways at the top of the waterfalls, providing an
unmatched view of the Cataratas and its abundant nature, filled
with orchids, colorful birds, and other wildlife. The highlight of
our day will be the trek to the suspended platform at the edge of
Devil’s Throat – the largest of the waterfalls!
DAY 10: Departure
Meet you guide in the lobby for any check-out assistance and
embark on a private transfer to the airport, where we will wish
you safe travels home!
LODGING:
SANMA HOTEL (FOZ DO IGUACU)
Discover Corps invites you to relax in this lush oasis just steps
from Iguazu Falls. Enjoy the Sanma Hotel’s spacious pool, luxu-
rious spa, gardens, and walking trails throughout the property.
Indulge in Mediterranean-inspired cuisine at the onsite restaurant
or try local wines at the Wine Bar. If outdoor activity is more your
thing, enjoy one of the hotel’s several sports facilities including:
volleyball, soccer, and tennis courts (Note: Hotel subject to
change based on final availability).
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FESTIVAL
BRAZIL: WHAT’S INCLUDED
RIO CARNIVAL • 6 nights lodging at the 4-star Portobay Rio de Janeiro
• 14 meals throughout the trip; includes soft drinks and
some alcohol
7 DAYS / 6 NIGHTS • A schedule of exclusive Carnival activities as well as seeing all
of Rio’s iconic sites
• Tickets & exclusive “fresa box” access to the Carnival parade
DATE ADULT • A bi-lingual expert local guide there to guide and support you
throughout the trip
February 9-15, 2024 $5,695 • Reliable in-country transportation with experienced drivers
• $50,000 emergency medical evacuation insurance
• Trip literature
OPTIONAL EXTENSION $1295
• Turnkey customer support from preparing for your trip to
arrival back home
Important! There is a priority registration deadline of
7/15/2023 for the 2024 departure. Prices will increase
after that. Registration closes on 8/31/2023.
There is an additional mandatory single room supplement
fee of $1195 per person for the main trip and $395 for the
WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED
extension. Please note that there is a mandatory $375 • International airfare
one-way domestic flight supplement for the extension.
• 2 lunches and 1 dinner
Please note: Due to the high demand during this period, • Most alcoholic beverages
the trip fee will be non-refundable starting September 1,
2023. Please consider travel insurance. • Tips for the Guide & Driver
• Laundry services, room-service, or phone calls
RESERVE YOUR TRIP TODAY MONTHLY PAYMENT PLANS AVAILABLE
Trips are limited to 16 travelers and do fill. Reserving a trip Discover Corps offers monthly payment plan options for all
with Discover Corps is easy. Simply visit our website and fill of our trips. Contact us anytime, before or after booking, to
out the online registration form and pay a $365 deposit and sign up for a monthly payment plan or with any questions:
$30 non-refundable booking fee per person. If you have any
Call/Text: 619-758-3030 Email:
[email protected] questions or would like to speak to a Travel Specialist,
call/text us at (619) 758-3030 or e-mail us at
[email protected] THE FINE PRINT
All travelers must be 17 years or older.
RETURNING ALUMNI? Although unlikely, prices, dates, and accommodations subject
We like to reward those who travel with us again and again. to change with a 60 day notice from Discover Corps.
Enjoy a $250 discount off our trip if you are a returning (B, L, D): Breakfast, Lunch Dinner
Discover Corps traveler.
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Our Mission
The mission of Discover Corps is to inspire travelers to become advocates
for our planet’s natural wonders, cultural treasures, and local communities
through immersive and sustainable travel experiences.
OUR DESTINATIONS
ALASKA ITALY
AUSTRALIA JAPAN
BELIZE KENYA
BHUTAN MEXICO
BRAZIL MOROCCO
COSTA RICA PERU
CUBA SOUTH AFRICA
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC TANZANIA
EGYPT THAILAND
GALÁPAGOS ISLANDS UGANDA
FAMILY FRIENDLY • SMALL GROUPS • POSITIVE LOCAL IMPACT • DISTINCTIVE LODGING • HANDPICKED GUIDES
Visit discovercorps.com/register to place a $395 deposit
down to hold your space, or reach out to us at the contact
information below with questions.
+1.619.758.3030 • www.discovercorps.com • [email protected]
