Overview
Take inspiration from the Amazon jungle, expansive beaches, and sensual samba on a performance tour to Brazil. Students will bask in the rhythms and rich culture of Rio de Janeiro with a visit to the City of Arts, where music, theatre, dance, and other artful expressions are on display. Participate in a Brazilian music workshop, where students will learn more about hit songs like Girl from Ipanema. Venture on to São Paulo to explore Trianon Park or the Municipal Market before taking the stage in one of the city’s exquisite performance venues.
Itinerary
Day 1
Start tour
Day 2
Arrive in Rio de Janeiro
Meet your Tour Director
Your 24-hour Tour Director will meet you at the airport and remain with your group until your final airport departure.
Rio de Janeiro guided sightseeing tour
Theatro Municipal, Paço Imperial, Praca XV de Novembro, Cathedral Metropolitana, Corcovado Mountain ascent via cogwheel train
Corcovado Mountain ascent via cogwheel train
Experience Rio’s most spectacular landmark up close. Ride a Swiss-made cogwheel train up Corcovado ("hunchback") Mountain, passing through the lush Tijuca National Forest. At the summit, marvel at the statue of Christ the Redeemer, which gazes out over the city. The views are breathtaking, and the statue itself is impressive, standing nearly 100 feet tall and weighing over 1,000 tons.
Day 3
Gamboa District & "Samba City" guided sightseeing tour
Discover the Gamboa district near the port. Experience the spirit of Carnival and Samba in “Cidade do Samba” or Samba City. The complex of buildings is where the top Rio Samba schools prepare every day of the year for February’s Carnival.
Academicos da Grande Rio warehouse visit
At the Acadêmicos da Grande Rio warehouse, the rich history of Carnival unfolds, offering educators a unique lens into Brazilian culture and tradition. Students will engage with the intricate process of float assembly and explore the artistry behind vibrant costumes, fostering a deep appreciation for cultural expression. This experience aligns with curriculum standards in social studies and art, promoting critical thinking and creativity as students connect historical narratives to contemporary celebrations.
Cidade das Artes backstage tour & workshop
Explore Rio’s largest cultural complex, Cidade das Artes (City of Arts), home to music, theater, dance, and visual arts year-round. Enjoy a backstage tour of the theaters, then take part in a Brazilian Music Workshop to learn about classics like "The Girl from Ipanema" and "Watercolor of Brazil."
Rio de Janeiro performance
Day 4
Travel to Paraty
Paraty city walk
The city of Paraty, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is located halfway between São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro. Most of its charming historic downtown dates back to the 18th century, though its origins trace to its founding in 1531. The pedestrian-friendly streets invite exploration of its coastal and mountain scenery, or a journey inland to the lush Atlantic rainforest.
Day 5
Paraty Bay snorkel cruise
Explore the city of Paraty via boat today, as we view the lush mountains, crystal clear waters, and nearby islands that surround the city. Our boat will make 3 stops for a chance to discovery different underwater experiences for snorkeling. Look out for seahorses, starfish, and other creatures that live in coral. (Snorkeling equipment and flotation aids will be provided.)
Free time in Paraty
Paraty performance
Day 6
Travel to Sao Paulo
Sao Paulo city walk
São Paulo, Brazil's vibrant financial center, is among the world's most populous cities, with numerous cultural institutions and a rich architectural tradition. Its iconic buildings range from its neo-Gothic cathedral and the 1929 Martinelli skyscraper to modernist architect Oscar Niemeyer's curvy Edifício Copan. The colonial-style Pátio do Colégio church marks where Jesuit priests founded the city in 1554. São Paulo ranks eighth among cities in the world for the number of high-rise buildings.
Day 7
Sao Paulo Cathedral visit
Visit the São Paulo Cathedral. The original cathedral was built in 1589, and has been rebuilt three times since. Despite having a Renaissance-styled dome, the São Paulo Metropolitan Cathedral is considered by some to be the 4th largest neo-gothic cathedral in the world.
Municipal Market of Sao Paulo
Spend time exploring the Municipal Market of Sao Paulo. It is housed is a historical building known for it's vaulted ceilings and stained glass. The market is home to vendors selling various forms of local foods; 450 tons of food passes through the market per day in more than 290 boxes.
São Paulo guided sightseeing tour
São Paulo, Brazil’s vibrant financial center, is one of the most populous cities in the world and a hub of culture and architecture. Its iconic landmarks include the neo-Gothic Cathedral of São Paulo, the colonial-style Pátio do Colégio where Jesuit priests founded the city in 1554, the 1929 Martinelli skyscraper, and Oscar Niemeyer’s curvy Edifício Copan. You’ll also visit Luz Station, a striking example of 19th-century railway architecture, and the ornate Municipal Theater, a center for classical music and opera. São Paulo ranks eighth globally for the number of high-rise buildings, reflecting its dynamic and modern skyline.
Trianon Park
Explore Trianon Park, an urban, native rainforest along one of the city's most important, financial district avenues. The park's formal name of Tenente Siqueira Campos literally translates to "Peace if you want Nature," and reflects a human's desire to experience nature, even when living in the city.
Sao Paulo performance
Day 8
End tour
Fly home
Day 9
Return home
Already Included
Transportation to & from your destination
Hotel accommodations
Admissions to top attractions (details in itinerary)
Meals (unless otherwise noted on your itinerary)
WorldAssist staff members available 24/7/365 should your group need extra help
Free high school credit for students who choose to complete WorldStrides free online coursework post-program
Guided sightseeing tours & city walks (details in itinerary)
Tips for local guides and drivers
WorldStrides Tour Director: A dynamic destination expert who makes learning come to life by leading your group's activities and discussions
Adjudicated group performances and an optional solo/duo competition
Scenes from Brazil
Health & Safety
Additional health and safety measures may be available within your respective destination. Refer to your program-specific materials for complete details.
Financial Assistance
Financial Assistance
WorldStrides provides over $2.5 million in financial assistance each year to thousands of families. Families with annual adjusted gross incomes of less than $85,000 may qualify. One simple call to Customer Service and you’ll know how much may be available for your trip even before signing up. Please note: financial assistance is given on a first-come, first-served basis.
Payment Plans
Advantage Payment Plan
At program sign-up you can opt to pay in full, or break up the cost of your trip with the Advantage Payment Plan. This plan allows you to pay a small initial deposit, then have your remaining payments spread out into affordable monthly amounts.
EZPay
We offer an EZPay option, which is a simple way to pay for your WorldStrides program by scheduling hassle-free, automatic drafts from your checking account. With EZPay, you'll never be late or miss an installment.
Fundraising Tools
Our easy-to-use tools put students in the driver's seat of their own fundraising efforts. Students can send e-cards, share links on social media, and even send out printed letters through WorldStrides' Gift of Education program. In one click friends and family members can make a direct donation to the trip - with 100% of the money raised going to offset their trip price. Thousands of students pay for their entire trip each year through the Gift of Education.
Also, WorldStrides makes program-specific scholarships available as well as other scholarship resources. Ask your Account Manager for more information about scholarships and fundraising tools.