The Itinerary

Day 1: UK clients depart, overnight flight arriving in Rio the next morning.

Day 2-3: Explore the 'marvellous city', strung out between the famous bays and beaches and a jungle-clad mountainous hinterland. Excursion by cable-car to the top of Sugar Loaf Mountain with panoramic views. Take the scenic cog-railway through groves of tropical fruits to the peak of Corcovado, topped with the iconic statue of Christ. The views from here - 710m above sea level - are even more all-encompassing (on a clear day). Optional excursions to the arty colonial district of Santa Teresa or the world-famous Maracana Stadium.

Day 4: Morning flight to Foz do Iguaçu, close to the colossal Iguaçú Falls - a thundering chain of cascades of water which foam over a jungle precipice. Visit the Brazilian side of the Falls.

Day 5: Full-day excursion to the riverbank-hugging walkways of the Argentinean side.

Day 6: Early morning flight to bustling Manaus, capital of Amazonia.

Day 7: Transfer by boat to a small jungle lodge -a mix of comfort and rustic charm with eco-friendly, polished wood thatched cabins set on stilts amongst the creeks and islands of the Rio Negro.

Day 8-9: Excursions from the lodge: alligator spotting, visits to local communities, canoe trips are on offer.

Day 10: Afternoon flight to Salvador on the north-east coast; walking tour of the historic centre.

Days 11-12: Days at leisure to explore this most evocative of cities: graceful colonial buildings painted in bright sugary shades, cobbled alleys and squares, African-influenced music and religioin give the city its unique atmosphere. There is a string of attractive golden beaches with lanscaped promenade nearby.

Day 13: UK clients depart from Salvador, arriving day 14, Fri.