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Savor Brazil’s iconic cuisine, with hands-on cooking classes unlocking local culinary secrets from coast to rainforest

from US $ 9130 pp

Brazil Map

Tour Highlights

Bahian Cookery Class

Farm to Table Cooking

Cocktail Class

Parrot Island

Historical Tours

Art & Culture

Food Stalls to Fine Dining

about this tour

about this tour

This Flavors of Brazil tour goes deep into the many cultural and historical elements which have come to form Brazils ever-evolving gastronomy. Beginning with the sprawling produce markets and fisheries of Belém, the trip leads onto Salvador da Bahia, one of Brazil's cultural centre's, whose many international influences are reflected in the versatile cuisine of the region. While here, take a cookery lesson to learn the art of making a good Moqueca, Bahia's best-loved dish, before an in-depth look at the farming history of Tiradentes and its surrounds. The tour climax's with a journey through Rio de Janeiro, known for its varied food scene; from lively street food fares to some of the most opulent, and indulgent restaurants in the country, Rio is a food lover's paradise!

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An expert chef leads a Bahian cooking class, starting with a visit to a local market to select the freshest ingredients. With insider tips, the chef guides the preparation of Moqueca, a traditional Bahian stew of saltwater fish, coconut milk, tomatoes, and coriander, a dish shaped by centuries of African, Indigenous, and Portuguese flavors. 

  • 1

    Arrival in Belém

    Upon arrival, your driver will meet you in the Arrivals Hall for a private transfer to your hotel. Enjoy the rest of your day at your leisure to relax by the pool or take a walk around the local area before your Finest Journeys adventure starts. We recommend an early night, as there will be a very early start in the morning.

    Upon arrival, your driver will meet you in the Arrivals Hall for a private transfer to your hotel. Enjoy the rest of your day at your leisure to relax by…
  • 2

    Markets & Heritage of Belém

    An early start this morning for a real-life taste of Belém's fishing industry and markets. Departing the hotel at 5 am, the day begins with a visit to the Açai fruit markets, observing the comings and goings of local boats as they bring in shipments of Açai berries, a delicacy of the Amazon, before moving to the fish markets of Ver-o-Peso, where the newly arrived haul will be on display. Ver-o-Peso is a local market with a difference; known as a place to source ingredients used in natural remedies and apparently witchcraft brews. Though also a busy food bazaar; the market is awash with stalls selling everything from potions made of vegetable roots, to crocodile teeth, bottled snakes and mystical amulets. This morning's walk will, however, focus more on the fresh produce, fruits and herbs which the market is also famed for, including a stop for breakfast and coffee while there. From the hubbub of the bustling food markets, it is on to some other points of historical and cultural importance throughout Belém, including the Basílica de Nossa Senhora de Nazaré, Museu Emílio Goeldi; a botanical, zoological and anthropological park home to more than 2,000 native plant and tree species, and the Museu de Arte Sacra; Brazil's finest museum of religious art. A well-earned waterfront lunch at a local restaurant offers another chance to sample a selection of local dishes, with a typical Brazilian buffet menu including "Pirarucu ao leite de coco", a mouthwatering dish of Pirarucu fish cooked in coconut milk; the perfect reward for a day of touring!

    An early start this morning for a real-life taste of Belém's fishing industry and markets. Departing the hotel at 5 am, the day begins with a visit to the Açai…
  • 3

    Parrot Island

    Another early start this morning for an unforgettable sunrise over Ilha do Papagaio, or "Parrot Island". As the name suggests; the island is densely populated with thousands of native Parrots who, every morning, make a daily commute to the mainland as the sun hits the sky. The sight of this migration and accompanying frantic squawking is a beautiful natural spectacle, and a great way to start your day. When all the birds have passed safely overhead, take a motorized canoe down the narrow creeks and mangroves of the surrounding waterways to explore the varied flora and fauna which line the riverbanks, while also observing the busy boat traffic of local tradesmen ferrying their merchandise up and downstream to be sold in the city's markets. Once back on dry land, the rest of the day can be spent at leisure, either relaxing along the promenade or visiting the Palácio Lauro Sodré state musem or Forte do Presépio, for a glimpse into the militarised colonial period Belém endured. This evening, Belém will offer no-end of eateries in cosy locations for you to choose from, particularly in the Old-Town.

    Another early start this morning for an unforgettable sunrise over Ilha do Papagaio, or "Parrot Island". As the name suggests; the island is densely populated with thousands of native Parrots…
  • 4

    Salvador da Bahia

    Your driver will collect you from the hotel to take you to the airport for your flight to Salvador da Bahia. On arrival in Salvador, your local guide will be there to drive you to your next hotel. The rest of your day is at leisure to relax and unwind or explore the surrounding area. Salvador de Bahia, sitting proudly atop the All Saints Bay, was Brazil's historical first capital. For Brazilians, Bahia is synonymous with a more relaxed pace of life compared with other main cities such as Rio or Sao Paolo, and more than any other city represents the fusion of culture, history, food, dance and religion which spreads throughout the country.

    Your driver will collect you from the hotel to take you to the airport for your flight to Salvador da Bahia. On arrival in Salvador, your local guide will be…
  • 5

    Salvador City Tour

    This morning's guided walking tour around the old town is an excellent way to understand the unique energy of this magical place and its people. The Pelourinho district is the starting point; located right in the heart of Salvador's historic centre. Awash with colonial buildings and traditional churches dating from the 17th and 18th century; it is an eminent example of colonial history and symbol of the black movement in Bahia. In addition to the churches, museums, galleries, and local artist studios, particular highlights of Pelourinho include; Novelist Jorge Amado's House, São Francisco Church and the Cathedral Basílica, with the traditional Cravinho Bar being a great place to pick up some native food along the way! The tour passes the Pierre Verger Gallery and the studio of Goya Lopes (a Bahian textile designer who seeks inspiration from African-Brazilian influences in Bahia) ideal if looking for locally produced artwork and artefacts. Finally, it is on to Elevador Lacerda, a famous 19th-century mechanical lift connecting the Upper and Lower parts of the City to this day. Having descended the Elevador Lacerda, relax and enjoy panoramic views of the All Saints Bay and Mercado Modelo. After a delicious lunch in one of the old towns many fantastic restaurants (try local delicassies such as vatapá, moqueca de peixe and bobo de camarão) the tour continues to the Fort of Santa Maria in the Barra district, the famous Bonfim church, and the traditional neighbourhoods of Corredor da Vitória, Campo Grande and Piedade.

    This morning's guided walking tour around the old town is an excellent way to understand the unique energy of this magical place and its people. The Pelourinho district is the…
  • 6

    Bahian Cooking Class

    Moqueca is a much-loved staple of Brazilian cuisine, and is typical of the Bahian area. This beautiful stew of fresh salt water fish, coconut milk, tomatoes and coriander, showcases some of the many international influences in Brazilian food. Beginning at a local market with an expert chef, you will be responsible for bargaining and purchasing all of the ingredients needed for the dish, before returning to their private kitchen and begin the cooking! With the help of insider tips and guidance from your knowledgeable chef; mastering the delights of Bahian gastronomy will come throughout the tutorial, before sampling your own delicious creations for lunch.

    Moqueca is a much-loved staple of Brazilian cuisine, and is typical of the Bahian area. This beautiful stew of fresh salt water fish, coconut milk, tomatoes and coriander, showcases some…
  • 7

    Salvador to Tiradentes

    This morning, your journey continues with a flight to Belo Horizonte. Upon arrival, you'll be transferred by car to Tiradentes, a picturesque colonial town founded in 1702. Tiradentes blends the quaint charm of historic houses, antique shops and wildflowers, against the backdrop of lush mountains littered with excellent hiking trails. Steeped in history, Tiradentes is named after Joaquim da Silva Xavier, a martyred hero of the Inconfidência Mineira uprising in 1789.  This serene town is considered the region's best-preserved example of colonial architecture, and houses a significant collection of Baroque art.  The afternoon is free for you to relax at your hotel or explore the town at your own pace.

    This morning, your journey continues with a flight to Belo Horizonte. Upon arrival, you'll be transferred by car to Tiradentes, a picturesque colonial town founded in 1702. Tiradentes blends the…
  • 8

    Farm to Table Dining

    Tiradentes is well-known for its connection with farming and food, with today's tour offering a look at some of the better known and tastiest produce of the region. Though the tour begins at 9.30am, the first stop is a visit to Brazils oldest distillery in Brazil; Engenho Boa Vista, located in the village of Coronel Xavier Chaves outside Tiradentes. The Mill and distillery date back to the 18th century, and are owned by Rubens Chaves, descendant of Coronel Xavier Chaves; the founder of the town, with the plant still producing some of the best sugarcane Cachaça (the main ingredient used in traditional capirinha's) to this day. From the distillery, on to Sitio São Geraldo, a working farm which specialises in organic juices, maize, vegetables and a fine variety of sausages. There will be a hands-on cookery class while at Sitio São Geraldo, with plenty of chance to enjoy some sampling as you go! The final stop is the Catauá Cheese Factory, where visitors can see every stage of cheese making, from the rearing and caring of the cattle, to the final storage and ageing process. Of course, more sampling of the finished article and option to purchase any personal favourites. The day is rounded off back in Tiradentes at around 3pm, with a leisurely lunch at the Padre Toledo Restaurant; known for its traditional tasting menu and long history of feeding the community with dishes using local, seasonal crops.

    Tiradentes is well-known for its connection with farming and food, with today's tour offering a look at some of the better known and tastiest produce of the region. Though the…
  • 9

    Rio de Janeiro - Cocktail Class

    Set off this morning for the 5-hour drive south, to Rio de Janeiro, and the final leg of this gastronomic adventure. On arrival in the city, check into the hotel before learning the secrects of Brazil's best-known beverages with a 2-hour cocktail making class. Here, you will learn not only the ingredients and techniques of much-loved drinks such as the Caipirinha and Batida de Coco, but also some of the science behind the distilling of cachaça; a clear spirit made from sugarcane and used as the base for many of Brazil's signature recipe's.

    Set off this morning for the 5-hour drive south, to Rio de Janeiro, and the final leg of this gastronomic adventure. On arrival in the city, check into the hotel…
  • 10

    Corcovado & Santa Teresa

    This full-day Rio tour offers a contrasting experience, showcasing iconic landmarks and artistic neighborhoods. First, you'll visit the famed Christ the Redeemer statue. A cogwheel train will ascend Corcovado Mountain (Tijuca National Park) for breathtaking city views. Capture stunning panoramas of Copacabana, Ipanema, the Botanical Gardens, and Rodrigo Freitas Lagoon. As you descend through the lush Tijuca Forest, stop for photos at the Maracanã Stadium and Sambódromo. Afterward, a delicious lunch at Aprazivel Restaurant in Santa Teresa. Renowned for its organic, locally-sourced dishes and tropical ambience, the restaurant reflects the artistic spirit of the neighborhood. Following lunch, explore the charming streets of Santa Teresa. You'll visit art studios, bars, and iconic spots like Jorge Selarón's studio and Parque das Ruínas cultural center. Throughout the tour, learn about the creative process of local artists and gain insight into Rio's rich artistic scene.

    This full-day Rio tour offers a contrasting experience, showcasing iconic landmarks and artistic neighborhoods. First, you'll visit the famed Christ the Redeemer statue. A cogwheel train will ascend Corcovado Mountain…
  • 11

    Foodie Tour of Rio

    Today is dedicated to a delicious exploration of Rio’s food scene, taking in some of the city's best street food, café's and traditional restaurants, with no less than 8 stops throughout the day, before finishing with a meal and cocktails in one of Rio's best eating establishments. Beginning in the Lapa neighbourhood, the tour begins with a scenic walk past the colourful bars of the district, and of course, the famous Selarón Steps, before sampling some Amazonian fruit juice and street food. Your guide will lead you through some of the cosmopolitan and traditional areas of Rio, stopping in at various eateries along the way, while also giving background to Brazil's more famous, and lesser known dishes. This is a full day wandering the city, exploring some of its many neighbourhoods and fantastic food, though will be taken at a leisurely pace to make the most of the experience.

    Today is dedicated to a delicious exploration of Rio’s food scene, taking in some of the city's best street food, café's and traditional restaurants, with no less than 8 stops…
  • 12

    Leisure Day

    Explore Rio de Janeiro. Take this day to unwind and choose your own adventure. Relax on the soft sands of Ipanema Beach, soaking up the sunshine and the rhythmic sounds of the ocean. Alternatively, if a specific neighborhood or attraction captured your heart, delve deeper today. Perhaps revisit the charming cafes and art galleries of Santa Teresa, or return to the National Museum of Fine Arts for a more focused exploration of its vast collection.  The choice is yours – unwind or re-explore!

    Explore Rio de Janeiro. Take this day to unwind and choose your own adventure. Relax on the soft sands of Ipanema Beach, soaking up the sunshine and the rhythmic sounds…
  • 13

    Departure Day

    On the last day of the tour, a driver will be on hand at the required time for a transfer from the hotel to the airport, in preparation for onward flights.

    On the last day of the tour, a driver will be on hand at the required time for a transfer from the hotel to the airport, in preparation for onward…

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Selected luxury hotels that deliver exceptional service in authentic local style.

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Our in-country expert

Alejandro is our local expert on Brazil, having lived and breathed the heart of South America for 17 years. His extensive experience grants him an intimate understanding of the continent's diverse cultures, history, sights and scenes; from the Amazon's lush rainforests to the iconic Iguazu Falls. A lifelong passion for travel and tourism, ignited during his...
Alejandro
Alejandro

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