RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL

We can discover the highlights of vibrant and captivating Rio as our tour introduces us to one of the most famous landmarks in the world.

We can discover the highlights of vibrant and captivating Rio as our tour introduces us to one of the most famous landmarks in the world. Our tour starts with a drive through the downtown commercial district and residential areas en route to Copacabana, Rio’s celebrated curved beach which is backed by skyscraper hotels and apartments. Located between mountain and sea, this high-density narrow strip of land is a must-see. We will drive along Avenida Atlantica, which is known for its mosaic sidewalks, designed by Burle Marx to represent images of rolling waves. Rio’s sociable beach scene is a sight to behold and offers living proof of the Cariocas’ fondness for life. From here our drive will take us to Praia Vermelha, where the sea level cable car station is located. The Sugar Loaf, or Pão de Açucar, rises as a massive granite cone at the entrance of Guanabara Bay. We board the cable car for the ascent, which is made in two stages. It takes three minutes to get to the 650 foot Urca Hill, where shops and restaurants exist in shady gardens. The second stage involves a breathtaking ride to the 1,200 foot summit. On a clear day, the views from this vantage point are stunning. We can take both rides all the way to the top, or for the less intrepid, it is possible to remain at the middle level and enjoy the views from there. Following our descent we will rejoin our coach and head back to the ship. At all three levels of the Sugar Loaf there are a few steps to be negotiated and therefore this tour is not recommended for people with walking difficulties.

DESCRIPTION CORRECT FOR 2008 SOUTH AMERICA CRUISE