BRAZIL IS CALLING!
This July 2026, join the Blossom Retreat to vibrant Rio de Janeiro — golden beaches, samba beats, breathtaking views from Sugarloaf Mountain, and the warm embrace of Brazilian culture.
Brazil is a land where rhythm meets radiance - a country that dances to the beat of samba, glows under year-round sunshine, and welcomes you with open arms. From lush rainforests and golden beaches to vibrant street markets and world-famous cuisine, Brazil offers a feast for the senses and a warmth that lingers long after you’ve left.
At the heart of it all is Rio de Janeiro, a city that feels like a living postcard. Here, the majestic Christ the Redeemer stretches his arms over a breathtaking skyline where mountains meet the sea. Sunlight kisses the shores of Copacabana and Ipanema, where turquoise waves roll in beside a backdrop of swaying palms and joyful locals. The air is alive with music, the scent of fresh tropical fruits, and the promise of unforgettable moments.
This July, join us as we journey to Brazil together, celebrating friendship, freedom, and the beauty of life in one of the world's most captivating cities.
PAYMENT OPTIONS FOR SHARED OR SINGLE ROOMS
DOUBLE OCCUPANCY
$2,500 per person
based on SHARED occupancy (double)
single occupancy
$3,500 PER PERSON
BASED ON SINGLE OCCUPANCY
QUESTIONS? CALL Nicoline: (310) 293-3355
FINAL PAYMENT IS DUE IN FEBRUARY
Retreat Schedule
Travel Details
PLEASE NOTE: You will fly to Rio de Janeiro-Galeao International Airport (GIG) or Santos Dumont Airport (SDU). SDU airport is about 5 miles from the hotel. However, flights into GIG are less expensive and it's about 12 miles from the hotel. Plan to arrive in the morning of July 8, 2026, and leave after 3 pm on July 15. We will be happy to coordinate group travel as only one group transfer will accommodate everyone. Let us know before purchasing your air ticket.
If you have an American passport, you will need an e-visa to enter Brazil. Visit the Brazilian government-authorized website to obtain your evisa: https://brazil.vfsevisa.com.
While daily breakfast is provided, we opted out of 5 meals to keep the total cost of the trip low. We're working to provide a list of affordable dining options near the hotel, and some affordable options will also be available during tours.
July 8 - Arrive in Rio
ARRIVAL IN RIO DE JANEIRO: Upon arrival in Rio de Janeiro, you will be met and transferred to your hotel for an overnight stay on a bed and breakfast basis. Accommodation is at the Arena Leme Hotel - 7 nights
July 9 - Tour of Tijuca Forest & Santa Teresa
Breakfast at the hotel.
Jeep Tour – Half Day Tijuca Forest & Santa Teresa 4hr - private: Escape the urban buzz and immerse yourself in the "green lung" of Rio with our half-day Jeep tour through Tijuca National Park. Imagine cruising in an open-air Jeep, the lush canopy filtering sunlight as your expert guide unlocks the park's secrets. Hike through vibrant trails teeming with exotic birds and playful monkeys, breathing in the fresh mountain air. Admire breathtaking panoramas from scenic viewpoints like Vista Chinesa, where the sprawling cityscape merges with the turquoise expanse of Guanabara Bay. Discover hidden waterfalls cascading through verdant valleys, their cool mist refreshing your soul. Discover the park's fascinating history and diverse ecosystem, making your adventure not only exciting but also enriching. This shared Jeep Tour lets you connect with nature, capture stunning photos, and create unforgettable memories.
Return to your hotel for overnight
July 10 - Tour of Sugar Loaf and Corcovado
Breakfast at the hotel.
Full day Sugar Loaf and Corcovado tour 8hr: Soar above Rio and reach for the heavens on our breathtaking Corcovado tour. Imagine yourself gliding up the scenic cog train through lush Tijuca National Park, the city sprawling beneath you like a vibrant tapestry. Feel the anticipation build as you approach the summit, where Christ the Redeemer, arms outstretched, awaits in his iconic embrace.
Step onto the viewing platform and be prepared for awe-inspiring panoramas. The Sugarloaf Mountain pierces the sky, Guanabara Bay shimmers like a sapphire necklace, and the iconic cityscape unfolds before you in mesmerizing detail. Capture breathtaking selfies with Christ the Redeemer as your backdrop, explore the charming chapel, and soak in the unparalleled beauty that has captivated hearts for generations. This isn't just a tour; it's an experience that imprints itself on your soul, leaving you forever touched by the magic of Rio and the Christ the Redeemer's majestic embrace.
Soar above Rio's vibrant heartbeat and bask in breathtaking panoramas with our exhilarating tour of Sugar Loaf! Imagine gliding skyward in a sleek glass-enclosed cable car, the iconic peak rising towards you as the bustling city shrinks beneath you. Feel the ocean breeze kiss your face and the sun warm your skin as you reach the Morro da Urca, the first stage of your ascent.
Immerse yourself in the lush gardens and marvel at the panoramic vistas before continuing your journey to the crown jewel: Sugar Loaf Mountain itself. At the summit, the world stretches out before you like a vibrant tapestry. Capture awe-inspiring selfies with Copacabana beach curving away, Christ the Redeemer embracing the city, and Guanabara Bay shimmering under the sun. Savor the panoramic magic, explore the souvenir shops, and indulge in a refreshing drink at the cafe.
Return to your hotel to freshen up. You will be met for night out in Rio.
RIO By Night: Bar Hopping Tour (Duration: 4h)
Enjoy an evening in Rio, getting to know 3 amazing bars at Lapa neighbourhood accompanied by an English-speaking dancer guide!
You will enjoy your night in 3 traditional and famous bars, being able to appreciate the live samba music, enjoying snacks and drinks, and learning how to samba from a professional dancer!
July 11 - Night Rio Scenarium
By Night Rio Scenarium with dinner including drinks: This captivating venue is more than just a restaurant; it's a multi-sensory experience that blends history, music, and delicious food. Housed in a beautifully restored 19th-century mansion, Rio Scenarium boasts a collection of antique furniture, eclectic artworks, and vintage objects. The three floors are interconnected by stairs and an elevator, each decorated in a distinct style, creating a charming labyrinth to explore. Live music is the heart and soul of Rio Scenarium, featuring talented Brazilian artists who perform a variety of genres, from the lively samba to the soulful bossa nova.
While soaking in the vibrant atmosphere, you can enjoy a delightful culinary experience. The menu features Brazilian classics with a contemporary twist, offering a delicious exploration of local flavors. The service is attentive and professional, ensuring a seamless evening. Whether you're seeking a romantic dinner, a fun night out with friends, or a unique cultural immersion, Rio Scenarium promises an unforgettable evening in the heart of Rio de Janeiro.
Return to your hotel for overnight.
July 12 -Little Afrika & Carnival Experience tour
Breakfast at the hotel.
Full day Little Afrika & Carnival Experience tour 8hr: Delve into the history of Little Africa in Rio de Janeiro with this insightful and informative walking tour of the city's Saúde neighborhood. Once the largest African slave market in the world, Rio was the first port of call for millions of slaves who arrived in Brazil. From carnival to samba, from food to music, and from religion to
architecture, this guided walking tour shows how his heritage and legacy are still alive in Rio today. Take a historical and cultural walking tour of the Saúde neighborhood Learn about Rio's history as the world's largest African slave market Learn about the impact and legacy of the African diaspora in Brazil. We continue our tour to Santa Teresa district. Explore the bucolic Santa Teresa neighborhood. Admire the imposing mansions of the early 1900s and see the neighborhood's original tram, built in 1897.
Skip the crowds and dive deep into the world of Acadêmicos da Grande Rio, a premier samba school. Unveil the secrets of their breathtaking floats, their costumes glinting with passion and dedication. Travel through the history of samba, its music pulsating through every corner. Then, transform into a carioca reveler yourself, slipping into vibrant costumes and capturing your Carnival spirit in photos.
Raise a toast with the iconic Caipirinha, the rhythm of samba in your fingertips and the magic of Rio igniting your soul. This tour isn't just about watching, it's about living the vibrant pulse of Carnival firsthand. Book your behind-the-scenes adventure today and let Rio's spirit paint your memories in unforgettable colors!
Mixed percussion and dance workshop.
Return to your hotel.
JULY 13 - Food Tasting Tour
Breakfast at the hotel.
Discovering Authentic Flavors: Food Tasting Tour: In Rio de Janeiro's vibrant gastronomic scene, botecos hold a special place as true culinary treasures. A botecos food tasting tour is an exciting and tasty journey into the essence of Rio culture, exploring the authentic flavors and traditional dishes that captivate the palates and hearts of locals and visitors alike.
Authentic and Traditional Flavors: The tour features a selection of traditional boteco dishes, from the famous pastéis filled with unique flavors to fresh seafood snacks and succulent grilled meats. Each bite is an explosion of authentic flavors, prepared with love and tradition by the talented local chefs. From acarajé to feijoada, from codfish cakes to meat skewers, the tour offers a true feast for the senses
JULY 14 - Day at Leisure
Breakfast at the hotel and the day is at leisure.
JULY 15 - DEPART RIO
After breakfast, you will be met and transferred to Rio airport in time for your onward flight.
Will you be a part of the experience?
DON'T MISS OUT! JOIN TODAY!
INCLUDED SERVICES
- Inclusions in the above prices:
- 7 nights in Rio, bed and breakfast basis
- All transfers and transportation are by private vehicle (One Group transfer meeting one flight only on arrival and departure is included.)
- All services, lodging, food, and beverages mentioned in the trip description, plus taxes, tourist tickets, and entrance fees.
- All excursions will be accompanied by a guide speaking English.
- Our prices include entrance fees and tourist ticket costs for designated historical, natural, or religious landmarks, which are often managed by local authorities. Costs may increase without warning.
- Government/local taxes at existing rates
- Tours as noted below in RIO:
- Full day Sugar Loaf and Corcovado tour
- Tijuca Forest and Santr Teresa and Favela jeep tour
- Rio by Night Scenarium with dinner and drinks
- Full day Little Afrika and Carnival experience tour
- Rio by Night bar-hopping tour
- Food tour
- Meals as noted below:
- 7 x Breakfasts
- 0 x lunch
- 1 x dinners
Exclusions in the above prices:
- All airfares, departure taxes & fuel surcharges, Seat Selection.
- Additional charges will apply for extra transfers if anyone in the group is arriving or departing on different flights.
- Personal items
- Meals unless listed in itinerary or above, and all drinks
- Tips & Gratuities
- Early check-in & late check out of rooms (standard check-in time is 2 pm and check out 10 am)
- Travel Insurance
- Changes in Government/local taxes
- Visa/passport handling fees
- Optional Tours are not included in the final package rate.
- Any future fuel surcharges on land arrangements or additional costs due to COVID rules
- Current Block out dates, subject to change: Not valid during National Holidays, Congresses & Special Events
Luggage handling service at hotels and airports (approx. US$5.00 per person each way).
Got Questions?
See our detailed cancellation policy below. The trip is not refundable. You are STRONLY ENCOURAGED to purchase travel insurance. In the event you cannot travel, most insurance companies have a "cancel for any reason" policy. You will receive a full refund. Some recommended insurance companies are Travelex Insurance Services and Allianz Travel Insurance. If you need help, reach out and I will be happy to help you purchase insurance.
What is the Cancellation Policy?
If you must cancel your reservation, please remember that your deposit is non-refundable and non-transferable. Also, be aware that we are unable to transfer deposits or any payments from one calendar year to the next.
If you cancel more than 90 days prior to the retreat start date you will forfeit 50% of your payment made to hold your space. If you cancel less than 90 days prior to the retreat start date, 100% of the trip price will be forfeited.
We highly recommend that you purchase travel insurance as soon as you book an international retreat. (Repeat: get travel insurance. See below.)
It is your responsibility to read and understand our cancellation policies. Exceptions cannot be made for any reason, including weather, injury/illness, or personal emergencies. No refunds or credits will be given for failure to attend or failure to complete the retreat, or for arriving late or leaving early.
We HIGHLY RECOMMEND purchasing a CFAR (Cancel for any reason) travel/trip cancellation insurance so your trip fees will be covered in case you have to cancel your retreat. Trip insurance should also be purchased to cover medical expenses, in the event you have a medical emergency while on the retreat. We will assist you with this.