Heart of Brazil & the Amazon - 2022

Heart of Brazil & the Amazon

You’ve surely heard of Brazil — Latin America’s most expansive, diverse nation — but you haven’t seen anything unless you’ve experienced it on a small ship ocean cruise with Vantage Travel. In 2022, we invite you to explore the best of Brazil, from the verdure reaches of the Amazon to the cultural and historical riches of Rio de Janeiro.

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Marvel at the scenic vistas and vibrant culture of Rio de Janeiro, home of the sultry samba and the famed Ipanema Beach.

Christ the Redeemer, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Ascend Corcovado Mountain for up-close views of the iconic Christ the Redeemer, a 125-foot soapstone statue overlooking the city.

Birdwatching and Sailing along the Amazon

While sailing through the lush, verdure Amazon, keep watch for fascinating birds of this region, like the large-billed toucan and the vibrantly colored scarlet macaw.

Manaus & Manaus Opera House

Visit the splendid Manaus Opera House, a spectacular cultural center built from the wealth of rubber barons with French glass and Italian marble.

Optional Extension to Amazon Jungle

In scale and biodiversity, there is no other rain forest like the Amazon. More than 1,000 bird species, 300 types of mammals, and 45,000 species of plants are spread over a jungle the size of the contiguous United States. Enhance your expedition with a thrilling exploration of this breathtaking place. You’ll get around like the locals do, by boat, and have up-close views of monkeys and safari outings to spot fascinating birdlife, nocturnal alligators, and more. You’ll call an eco-friendly lodge your home, dining on freshly prepared meals of exotic fruits and fresh ingredients and retiring each evening to your own bungalow where the songs of the forest lull you to sleep.

Optional Extension to Iguassu Falls, Brazil

When Eleanor Roosevelt first laid eyes on Iguassu Falls, she is famously said to have uttered, “Poor Niagara!” It’s easy to understand what overwhelmed the First Lady. This torrent of water separating Brazil and Argentina plunges over 200-foot-high cliffs in a roaring fury of water. (In fact, Iguassu translates roughly from the local Guarani into “great water.”) Judging from Ms. Roosevelt’s reaction, you’ll want to extend your expedition to view Brazil’s other breathtaking natural wonder. Explore the cataracts from both countries, getting as close to the falls as the spraying mist allows. Join us on this thrilling adventure!

Enrique Virto, Cruise Director

Traveling for me is like breathing.” So says Vantage Cruise Director Enrique Virto, who was born in Cusco; Peru, and has led travelers to 30 different countries on five continents. Enrique studied Peruvian history in Cusco, Philosophy and Psychology in Paris; and ultimately received a degree with licensure in tourism. As an avid outdoorsman, Enrique says his favorite places are those where he can introduce travelers to natural wonders and variable terrain, among them Machu Picchu, and the Galapagos.

JW Marriott Rio de Janeiro Hotel

The luxurious JW Marriott Hotel Rio de Janeiro offers easy access to the city's best attractions, including Sugarloaf Mountain, Christ the Redeemer, and world-famous Copacabana Beach, which is just steps away. Guest rooms feature elegant decor, plush bedding, marble bathrooms and LCD TVs with international cable. In addition, you’ll enjoy the hotel’s state-of-the-art fitness center, sparkling rooftop pool, massage rooms, and on-site dining. 

Ocean Explorer

Cruise on the Ocean Explorer, an agile and state-of-the-art expedition vessel that can navigate to places larger ships can’t