Mythical Secrets Of Brazil

Passionate and alive with an infectious energy, Buenos Aires is a breathlessly romantic city, which blends colonial architecture with a down-to-earth Latin American clamour. Famed for steamy tango interplays and expertly seared steaks, this city is a fiery fiesta for the senses.

Visitors can choose to visit Caminito, the colourful street museum, shop at San Telmo Market, stroll through Recoleta Cemetery or cruise the Tigre River delta. Ships will dock at the Terminal de Pasajeros Benito Quinquela Martin which is a 30 minute drive from the airport and a 10 minute drive to the city centre.

Montevideo, the capital of Uruguay, boasts a relaxed atmosphere complemented by a rich cultural tapestry. This city is known for its captivating European-style architecture and broad boulevards like the famous Avenida 18 de Julio, which is lined with shops, cafes, and theatres. Key attractions include the historic Solis Theatre, a beacon of the performing arts, and the vibrant Mercado del Puerto, renowned for its steak and seafood.

The city’s coastline, with its rambla stretching over 20 kilometres along the serene Rio de la Plata, invites leisurely walks and offers ample space for cycling and jogging. Montevideo’s blend of cultural influences is especially evident in its music, particularly in the local tango scene, which visitors can experience in the city's lively milongas (tango clubs).

Punta del Este, situated on Uruguay's southeastern coast, is renowned for its stunning beaches, elegant seaside homes, and vibrant nightlife. The city divides the Rio de la Plata from the Atlantic Ocean, offering both gentle waters and energetic surf, ideal for various water activities. Its iconic sculpture, La Mano, a giant hand emerging from the sand, has become a symbol of the area.

For those interested in culture, Punta del Este also boasts a thriving arts scene with numerous galleries and the striking Ralli Museum, which houses an impressive collection of Latin American and European art. The city's harbour is bustling with yachts and is lined with upscale boutiques and gourmet restaurants, making it a centre for luxury and leisure.

Balneario Camboriu, a vibrant coastal city in Brazil’s southern state of Santa Catarina, is renowned for its stunning beaches and dynamic urban skyline.

Often compared to a mini Rio de Janeiro for its blend of beautiful natural landscapes and bustling city vibes, it attracts visitors with its famous cable car connecting the central beach to Laranjeiras, offering panoramic views of the lush coastline.

The city also boasts an innovative urban planning feat, Avenida Atlantica, which is a coastal promenade lined with cafes, shops, and high-rise buildings. Notably, the Cristo Luz monument, a smaller version of Rio's Christ the Redeemer, offers another spectacular viewpoint.

Itajaí, located in the state of Santa Catarina, Brazil, is a vibrant port city known for its significant contribution to the national fishing industry and as a hub for international trade. The city's port is one of the busiest in Brazil, playing a crucial role in the local economy. Itajaí also serves as a gateway to some of Brazil's most beautiful beaches, making it a popular destination for both business and leisure.

Aside from its economic activities, Itajaí celebrates its rich cultural heritage through various festivals, including the famous Marejada, which highlights Portuguese and Azorean influences with a focus on seafood and folkloric performances. The nearby beaches of Praia Brava and Atalaia offer stunning settings for water sports and relaxation, showcasing the natural beauty of the Santa Catarina coast.

Sao Paulo, Brazil's vibrant financial centre, is a melting pot of cultures and one of the most populous cities in the world. This city thrives on diversity, evident in its culinary scene that ranges from traditional Brazilian fare to world-class sushi, making it a gastronome’s delight. The bustling Mercado Municipal offers a taste of local flavours and exotic fruits in a striking setting featuring stained glass and vast domes.

Culturally, Sao Paulo is a powerhouse with an impressive array of museums, galleries, and theatres. The São Paulo Museum of Art (MASP) on Avenida Paulista houses a remarkable collection of Western art, displayed on clear perspex frames that seem to float in midair. For those who seek green spaces amidst the urban sprawl, Ibirapuera Park offers a serene retreat with its expansive grounds and cultural facilities.

Santos, situated along the coast of São Paulo in Brazil, is best known for possessing the largest seaport in Latin America. This vibrant city combines rich history with an energetic present. The Coffee Museum, located in the city’s historic downtown, pays homage to the coffee boom which profoundly shaped the region's economy and culture.

For those interested in architecture, the seafront promenade features the iconic SESC building, renowned for its innovative design and cultural activities. The city also offers a lush escape with the Orchid Garden, home to a variety of tropical plants and flowers. Santos’ extensive beachfront, marked by the Garden Beach – the longest beachfront garden according to the Guinness Book of World Records – is ideal for leisurely walks or simply enjoying the coastal ambiance.

Parati, Brazil, enchants visitors with its well-preserved colonial architecture and cobblestone streets. This charming town, nestled between lush mountains and the Atlantic Ocean, is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The historical centre is a delight to explore, with colourful buildings, quaint shops, and vibrant art galleries. Don't miss the Church of Santa Rita, an iconic 18th-century landmark.

Nature lovers will enjoy the nearby Serra da Bocaina National Park, offering hiking trails with stunning views and waterfalls. Parati's bay, dotted with islands and secluded beaches, is ideal for boat tours and swimming in crystal-clear waters. The town also boasts a rich cultural scene, with festivals and traditional cuisine that highlight Brazil's diverse heritage.

Brazil's third largest island, famed for its tropical scenery and gorgeous beaches, has an unusual history. Once a leper colony and later a prison, today the entire island is a protected reserve where a myriad of wildlife including iguanas, monkeys and birds can be found in the dense Atlantic forest. Ships will anchor offshore and tender guests ashore to Vila do Abraão.

Top Things to Do in Ilha Grande:

• relax on Lopes Mendes Beach
• sail by schooner to idyllic snorkelling spots
• visit the beautiful bay, Abraão Cove
• trek along one of the many nature trails

Upscale and desirable, Buzios is a beachy escape to a land of sun and thick palm-clad hills. With 17 luxurious, horseshoe-shaped beaches spreading out nearby, and a lively nightlife and culinary scene, Buzios is a place to kick back and soak up some of the best of Brazil's envied beach life. Ships will anchor offshore and tender guests to shore.

Top Things to Do in Buzios:

• stroll along the Rua das Pedras
• enjoy a sailing tour
• relax on Ferradura beach
• explore Buzios on a guided trolley tour

In Rio De Janeiro endless buildings flow around densely-forested mountains that roll down to an evocative waterfront. Incredible natural attractions, spontaneity that transforms everything into a party and world-famous monuments all make this city an unforgettable destination. Ships will dock at Pier Maua.

Top Things to Do in Rio De Janeiro:

• Ascend Mt. Corcovado to get up close to the Christ the Redeemer statue
• Relax on Ipanema or Copacabana beach
• take a cable car up Sugarloaf Mountain
• explore Tijuca National Park

Stretching across three islands, Recife's cityscape is accented with scenic inlets, canals and bridges, in addition to its famous beaches. What began as a scattering of fishing shacks in the 16th century is now a vibrant city that boasts delicious cuisine, colourful markets and a lively nightlife. Ships will dock at this port. 

Top Things to Do in Recife:

• tour the colonial city of Olinda
• visit the Casa da Cultura (Artisanal Mall)
  
• cruise through central Recife by catamaran
• visit the Institute Ricardo Brennand
• tour the Museum of the Man of the Northeast

As you navigate through the labyrinth of waterways, marvel at the diverse array of wildlife and rich flora and fauna. This scenic journey provides a unique opportunity to appreciate the vastness and biodiversity of one of the world's most incredible natural wonders from the comfort of your ship.

Alter do Chão is a charming riverside village located on the Rio Tapajos, it offers quaint cottages along white-sand beaches lined with leafy palm trees. Home to Ilha do Amor, one of the most photographed white sand islands in the entire world.

Explore Lago Verde, a grand lagoon that can be viewed from rented canoes, or take a boat tour along the Rio Tapajós or the Amazon. You’ll see a number of bird species and might even spot a crocodile or a sloth. Try Serra Pelada if you seek the perfect place for a short but breathtaking hike.

The Indian Village of Boca Da Valeria is nestled on a 400 ft hill overlooking the Amazon. With less than 100 people, the village boasts no tourism infrastructure. Yet it lures travellers by offering an authentic glimpse of the simple river life that the Amerindians have followed for centuries.

Ashore, you will find log canoes, grass huts, and a life of hunting and fishing unchanged since the time of the early explorers. Meaning "Mouth of the Valeria River," the remote fishing and trading village sits at the convergence of the Amazon and the Rio da Valeria.

Manaus, the 'Paris of the Jungle,' is the capital of Brazil’s state of Amazonas and offers a rich variety of culture, art, dining and nature. The former river village rests along the left bank of the Rio Negro. Ships will dock at the Porto Flutuante (floating docks).

Top Things to Do in Manaus:

• visit the Rubber Museum
• cruise Lake January to admire the giant Victoria water lilies
• visit Acajatuba to interact with Pink Dolphins
• wander the Military Zoo, a haven for endangered animals

This isolated island town in the Amazon River, has rich biodiversity, with river beaches that emerge during the period of low water level of the Amazon and Uaicurapá rivers.

Steeped in centuries-old Indian culture, this village celebrates an annual 'Boi Bumba' festival. The yearly folkloric festival, celebrates cultural diversity in the Amazon and is held in June but the townspeople reenact the festival for visitors throughout the year. The city is divided into two groups that compete against each other: the 'Caprichosos' in blue and the 'Garantidos' in red.

Santarem is one of the Amazon's most important trading centres, and is rich in legend and nature. Best known for its location, it is surrounded by two rivers: the Amazon, of muddy water, and Tapajós, of clear, green water, forming a beautiful meeting of different waters that do not mix for several kilometres. Ships will dock at this port.

Top Things to Do in Santarem:

• join a river cruise that takes you to the 'meeting of the waters'
• hike a Tapajós National Forest trail
• visit Casa da Farinha

Saint Lucia is the quintessential island paradise, with the majestic peaks of the Pitons, the splendour of lush rainforests, and the blue-green waters of the Caribbean breaking just off shore. Here, the mix of Caribbean, African, English, and French cultures creates an exquisite blend of food, music, and traditions. Enjoy a leisurely morning visiting Sulphur Springs, the world's only drive-in volcano, where you can relax in therapeutic mud baths and hot springs. For a taste of local culture, head to Castries Market, bustling with vendors selling fresh produce, spices, and handmade crafts.

In Castries, cruise ships dock at Pointe Seraphine or La Place Carenage. Both terminals are conveniently located within 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) of the city center, making it a quick 5-minute drive or a pleasant 15-minute walk. Pointe Seraphine is the primary terminal, featuring duty-free shops and a range of local craft stores, while La Place Carenage offers easy access to the central market.

To explore further, consider taking a taxi or a water taxi to Marigot Bay, roughly 11 kilometers (7 miles) south, about a 20-minute drive. Alternatively, arrange for a guided tour to the island's iconic Pitons, which are 45 kilometers (28 miles) away, typically a 1.5-hour drive. Local buses are also an economical way to see the island's stunning landscapes.

The port town for the island of St. Kitts, Basseterre has centuries of history to explore in impressive estates and photo-worthy monuments. With more than a quarter of the island set aside as a national park and a rainforest that is growing rather than shrinking, St. Kitts is a stunning tropical island escape. Ships will dock at this port.

Top Things to Do in Basseterre:

• hike the Mount Liamuiga trail
• circle St. Kitts in a restored vintage train
• zip line in the Valley of Giants
• visit the Brimstone Hill Fortress

Known as the 'cruise capital of the world', Port Miami is is considered to be the world’s busiest cruise ship port. Whether arriving or departing, aboard your cruise liner you can take in the superb view of the Miami skyline.

This multicultural city where the sun rules supreme is more than just a cruise port. Visitors from all over the world enjoy Miami’s famous Art Deco buildings, family-friendly zoos and romantic palm tree-lined streets filled with fantastic restaurants. Don’t forget about the white sandy beaches and year-round warm weather, perfect for relaxing before or after your Caribbean cruise from Miami.