Paris has the Eiffel Tower; New York has the Statue of Liberty. Rio is so special, it has two symbols – and we see them both today – the giant Statue of Christ the Redeemer, at the summit of Corcovado Mountain and Sugar Loaf Mountain which stops the string of stupendous beaches
-jutting it’s distinctive, awesome rocky profile into the sea. And it’s reached by amusement-park-like cable cars. The views from both peaks are irresistible.
No need to resist, since we’ll be touring them. Everything about Rio is excessive. Rio doesn’t have just one famous beach – it has many including the Art Deco Copacabana, the fabulously chic Ipanema, Leme, Leblon and Praia Vermelha (Red Beach) and you see them all. (B/L).

Full day at leisure to enjoy the incredible natural beauty of Rio, stunning beaches with the stunning bodies -- although the bodies of "Cariocas" (the name of Rio's residents) are frequently not that natural. If you still want to see more beaches, albeit more secluded ones, nestled amidst picturesque fishing villages, enjoy an optional full day Tropical Islands cruise with lunch ($55) or visit the famous Hippie Fair in Ipanema (Only Sundays). Tonight enjoy a Brazilian BBQ Dinner and Samba Show . (B/D).

Fly to Iguassu Falls and transfer to your hotel. If you should hear thunder from your hotel room, you're so close, it's only the roar of the Falls, the widest falls in the world. Iguassu National Park is just a few steps down walkways, with views of the Falls that are constantly changing. (B).

If it's your lucky day, you may even see some rainbows. Even if you don't, you're lucky to visit both the Brazilian and Argentinean sides, since many tours just go to one or the other, but we included both sides for your pleasure. Return to your hotel. (B).

Day at leisure. Afternoon transfer to the airport for your overnight flight back home. (B)