Brazil's Metropolises

Gateways to Brazil: Rio de Janeiro, Salvador and Manaus

For logistical reasons, the traveler rarely bypasses Brazil's big cities. They are the first bridges to a new world and offer the first impressions of the country you wish to discover. Since these cities are always the gateway to the hinterland, with all its scenic and cultural attractions waiting for you, you should always take the opportunity to stay here for a few days. This applies especially to megacities such as Rio de Janeiro, Salvador da Bahia and Manaus, where Southern Cross Tours & Expeditions offers interesting tours and side trips. Such escapes are the ideal start or end to a great trip to Brazil.

Rio de Janeiro

Brazil's most famous city lies between the forested mountains of the Atlantic Rainforest and the beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema. Beyond Sugarloaf Mountain and Christ the Redeemer on Corcovado, our private tours explore the historic center, the Botanical Garden and the Tijuca Forest, one of the largest urban forests in the world. Rio is also the starting point for trips to Paraty and Ilha Grande on the Green Coast.

Salvador da Bahia

Founded in 1549, Salvador was Brazil's first capital and is the heart of Afro-Brazilian culture. Its historic center, the Pelourinho – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – is famous for its colorful colonial houses and baroque churches, while the Lacerda Elevator connects the upper and lower city above the Bay of All Saints. Salvador is also the gateway to Chapada Diamantina National Park.

Manaus

In the heart of the Amazon, close to the "Meeting of the Waters" of the Rio Negro and the Rio Solimões, Manaus is the starting point for our Amazon cruises and expeditions. The city grew rich during the rubber boom, whose most famous legacy is the Teatro Amazonas opera house, opened in 1896.

Note: tours in the gateways and big cities are offered as part of a comprehensive travel package.