Group Tour Ideas

Though we can offer the typical types of tours in any of the countries that we work in, below are a few ideas for special group tours that will give your people a unique experience. These can be modified to suit your group's interests. If you get an idea for something that you don't see that would be of interest to you, just let us know and we can work up an itinerary to suit your interests. We can also set up small group cruises, such as to the Amazon, Galapagos and Patagonia.

Brazil's Natural Wonders - On this tour we combine the incomparable Iguassu Falls, the mysterious Amazon and the fascinating dunes and lagoons of Lencois Marenhenses - a matchless desert, formed by dunes of very white sands tens of meters high, replete with lagoons of sweet and crystalline water, pure rivers and beaches as deserted as wild. Lençóis Maranhenses is among the nominees on the campaign of the next New Seven Wonders of the World..

Brazil Conservation Tour - One of the best-known rainforest conservation efforts in Brazil, the Golden Lion Tamarin Conservation Project (GLTCP) , is a mere two-hour drive from the city of Rio de Janeiro. The Mamirauá Sustainable Development Reserve is the largest (1,124,000 ha) Brazilian protected area conserving flooded forest ecosystems, and the only operational area conserving the "várzea" flooded forest. Praia do Forte is now the headquarters of the extensive national turtle conservation project, TAMAR Project, with national and international prestige, credibility and recognition. In the state of Bahia, the largest number of spawnings of the Hawksbill Turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata), considered to be one of the most threatened with extinction all over the world.

Rhythms of Brazil - Countless are the tunes that sing of Rio de Janeiro, its friendly inhabitants, famous beaches and panoramic mountains, as the "cidade maravilhosa" (the marvellous city). Many musical genres have conquered the world from here. On this tour you will not only visit those world-famous places, which inspired composers and poets, but also experience such hidden corners of Rio de Janeiro where the "cariocas" (nickname for the inhabitants of Rio) preserve their unique and authentic musical culture. In Salvador, they move to a slightly different beat, due to a more African influence.

Old & New Brazil - On this itinerary, while strolling around Rio de Janeiro´s colonial avenues, explore its historical values and learn about Brazil´s history. Following the Golden Route, we will visit the world famous historical cities of Petrópolis, Tiradentes, São João del Rei, Congonhas, Mariana and Ouro Preto, which takes you back in time to Brazil´s colonial period. Founded in the early eighteenth century, Ouro Preto was the first Brazilian town to be declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The intricate details of the buildings and work of art clearly reflects the originality and autonomy of the craftsmen and artists who created this monument of Brazilian Baroque style. Tiradentes is a cozy and charming town, known for its cobblestones streets, churches, arts and nice restaurants. Congonhas contains important works from the Golden Age of Brazil and was declared a World Heritage Site by Unesco in 1985. The main points of interest are Aleijadinho´s sculptural masterpieces of the Twelve Prophets and the Via Crucies (Stations of the Cross). The set of life-sized sculptures is one of Brazil´s greatest artistic treasure. Continue on to Brasilia. The Brazilian capital is the only city in the world built in the 20th century to be considered, since 1987, a Historical and Cultural Heritage of Humanity by Unesco. And there are plenty of reasons for such renown: the young city, inaugurated in 1960, surprises even the most experienced travelers

Elite Soccer Training - The Botafogo F.R. International Department is pleased to announce a world class soccer training and playing tour package. Through the Botafogo Elite Training program you will be training with professional Brazilian soccer coaches that work full time at one of the top professional clubs in Brazil. You will combine superb soccer experience with the unique cultural atmosphere of one of the greatest soccer nations in the world, a powerhouse of worldwide famous and recognized soccer players

Brazil Birding Tour - The Atlantic Forest of Brazil is one of the world's top biodiversity hotspots. Having evolved in geographical isolation from other forest regions such as the Amazon, the Atlantic Forest is a unique ecosystem with high biodiversity and extremely high levels of endemism. Due to the fact of being located between the savanna to the south and the low-lying Amazonian forest to the north, the Meridional Amazon Forest, at somewhat higher elevation, is considered to be among the richest areas of the whole Amazon basin, presenting an astonishing diversity of flora and fauna, and some of the highest rainforest canopies in the world. Pantanal the world’s largest freshwater wetland, is a single biome composed of 11 biogeographic units. Pantanal is a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and it was declared as a Wetland of International Importance (Ramsar Site). With untouched beautiful wilderness, this region has a variety of ecological sub-regions, like river corridors, gallery forest, perennial and seasonally wetlands and lakes. Chapada dos Guimarães , in the geodesic centre of South America, is home to a beautiful cerrado (Brazilian savanna) landscape. The rich hydrography with many waterfalls, steep hill with reddish sandstone formations of Chapada dos Guimarães is home to a number of species not found in the Pantanal

(we can also offer birding tours in Panama, Peru, Colombia, Ecuador, Uruguay, etc.)

Serra da Capivara National Park - With around 97,933 hectares, the Serra da Capivara National Park has canyons that hide some 500 natural shelters and caves, which have an incredible collection of paintings and engravings made by the prehistoric men who inhabited the region some 50,000 years ago. UNESCO has declared the park part of the "Cultural Heritage of Humanity", due to the age of its archeological sites and the aesthetic quality of the rock art.

Amazon Student Workshops - We have a successful history of providing unique learning and travel experiences for high school and college groups. The lodge we use has unique facilities for an enriching educational experience. We have access to the Tamshiyacu Tahuayo Reserve the only community managed rainforest reserve in Peru. Considered one of the most successful approaches to conservation in the Amazon, it provides an outstanding opportunity for students to learn about the dynamics and challenges of rainforest conservation. The reserve allows us access to a diverse number of ecosystems, within easy reach of the lodge. The reserve boasts the highest number of mammalian species recorded in lowland Amazon, as well as the greatest number of primate species found in any protected park or reserve in the world. We also have 599 recorded species of birds as well as several species of amphibians and insects discovered here. Our collaboration with the native population in reserve management has resulted in friendly relations which have created opportunities for our visiting teachers and students to learn about riberenos culture as well as for some research projects in anthropology. Students with serious interest in science can participate in ongoing scientific research, such as the habituation of social groups of primates at our research center or transect sampling on the Amazon's largest trail grid (over 52 miles on 1000 acres). Our facilities include the longest zipline in the Amazon rainforest, and several platforms within the canopy. Students can have unlimited access to research projects in the forest canopy. We have recently added hydrophonic technology to allow students to listen to or record the underwater noises made by the pink dolphins and other marine animals. The lodge includes a conservation laboratory, Amazon natural history library and special gear for studying insects, frogs and snakes, as well as spotting scopes for birds.

Women's Tour of Peru - a program specially designed for female travelers interested in learning more in depth about Peruvian women: how they live and work, what their role is in modern Peru and what it was before the Spanish conquest. The itinerary purposely exposes guests to female success stories in Peru, all of them from very different ethnical, geographical and socio – economic backgrounds. From Silvia Stern, a German-Jewish immigrant that along with her husband started what now is Peru´s most renowned private collection of colonial art, to Nilda Callañaupa, an Andean native who rose from poverty and now heads a National Geographic- sponsored project to preserve ancient weaving techniques – it is through their eyes that passengers will discover what it means (and meant) to be a woman in Peru.

Peru Orchids Tour - Peru is home of 3000 orchid species. The greatest diversity of species is found in the High Amazon Jungle located between 500 and 3,600 m.a.s.l. Peru surpasses the number of native species found in Colombia and Ecuador, countries that are known because of their orchid variety. Orchids require a temperature range consistent with their place of origin: some demand high temperatures and flourish in a hothouse, others are quite content with the temperature of the typical home (temperate house), still others are unhappy if the temperature rises above 60 degrees (cool house).

Archeological Tour of N. Peru - This journey focuses on the sequence of magnificent desert kingdoms of Northern Peru which gave birth to Andean civilization. Here an ancient people created enigmatic and diverse realms. During an early period they were peaceful trading and fishing communities; later they were feudal states where ritual warfare and macabre sacrifice took place alongside opulent splendor and the creation of some of the world´s finest ancient pottery, goldwork and jewelry. We will see many of the hundreds of adobe pyramids they built, and visit museums displaying the glorious treasures they left buried in the desert sands. We will also glimpse the vestiges of an opulent Spanish colonial era in the modern city of Trujillo -- and get to sample one of the colonial era´s most pleasant legacies: the splendid national cuisine of Peru, along with its northern regional variety.

Peru Art Tour - Pre-Hispanic and Colonial Art and Architecture tour with expert guides.

Peru Concert Tour - a typical tour of Peru, but with the opportunity for choirs, orchestras, etc. to perform.

Peru Walking Tour - not as strenuous as hiking the whole Inca Trail, but active and full of culture and ruins and fun

Hidden Argentina - The North of Argentina is in large part a colourful, wind-sculpted montane desert traversed by green river valleys. Slow-paced village life enhanced by comfortable inns, many recycled from colonial structures, tasty local cuisine and numerous wineries, make a leisurely drive through the valleys an unforgettable experience.

Firecrowns & Penguins (Argentina) - This is a new program with a natural history approach but which is –we believe – a fun alternative for those passengers looking forward to experiencing the amazing wildlife in Argentina. This will include penguins and elephant seals in Valdes Peninsula, (depending upon the season there will also be whales!); then the rare fauna at Ibera with the marsh deer, black caiman and howler monkeys and of course the mighty Iguazu falls as a Grand Finale.

Patagonia Unlimited - We have selected a basic itinerary and have added a very special place: Hosteria Helsingfors. This Hosteria –sometimes forgotten – is a true gem in Patagonia. It is not only a very comfortable and cosy place to be but also offers some stunning vistas and great outings. Some of the most beautiful landscapes are to be found here. A panoramic view of the Fitz Roy Massif, a navigation to approach the Viedma Glacier, the largest on the continental ice fields, the Blue lagoon which in autumn reflects in its pure crystal waters the strong red colors of the lenga trees, and the laguna Verde (Green Lagoon) a place for a nice stroll.

Ecuador Highlands & Haciendas - customized tours of mainland Ecuador, using exclusive haciendas. Can add on Galapagos tour.

Southern Ecuador - The geography of southern Ecuador covers 3 continental regions, creating an excellent environment for cultural encounters, archeology including Inca and pre Incan sites, active travel and improving health and fitness, as well as offering us some of nature’s most extraordinary landscapes. The south of the country offers authenticity and true charm where its people preserve the traditions and customs that are practically lost in other places.

Epic Treks of the Andes - An extraordinary collection of treks in Ecuador's most amazing parks and nature reserves of the Andes and Amazon. This epic adventure offers exclusive trails filled with unique landscapes, wildlife and wonder. Encounter Indian communities with living traditions and revive the mythical legends of the ancient cultures. Combined with classic historic haciendas, spas, and eco lodges this trip is a hiker's adventure of a life time.

Andes, Amazon & Galapagos Multisport - Ecuador's ultimate adventure tour takes you to 6 different ecosystems to show you the best the country has to offer in a 10-day nature-filled, adventure-packed journey. The Andes Mountains, Amazon Jungle & Galápagos Islands are yours to explore in a journey of discovery that brings you into contact with diverse ecosystems, unique wildlife, and indigenous communities. Activities such as mountain biking, rafting, ocean kayaking, horseback riding, and encounters with indigenous communities give you a hands-on experience of Ecuador's culture and natural beauty. Top-notch guides accompany you every step of the way to reveal the secrets of these diverse ecosystems. Enjoy comfortable accommodations in small distinctive hotels & lodges throughout your trip.

Magic of Chile - On this 13 day trip we will visit the highlights of Chile and experience the diversity and contrasts of it´s nature, climate, geography, and the culture of this long and narrow country. Starting in the capital, Santiago de Chile, we will first visit the Atacama Desert, then the Lake District, and end the trip in the far South of Patagonia.

Bolivia - Fascinating Rainbow - Bolivia is known as the 'Tibet of the Americas', the highest and most remote of the countries in South America. The history of the region dates back to the pre-Columbian times, from the ancient Aymara; civilisation in 1,500 BC who lived on Lake Titicaca, to the Tiahuanaco and the Inca Empire of the Altiplano, until the conquest of the Spanish in 1538. It is one of South America's more intriguing countries, as one with the most indigenous population on the continent, the majority of whom still maintain their firmly established culture and beliefs. This living historical culture is one of the reasons that Bolivia is such an exciting tourist destination. Travellers will encounter shy people in traditional clothing, colourfully dressed and red-cheeked from the mountain air. The landscape is imbued with traditional houses and age-old methods of agriculture, and visitors will find remarkable traditions kept alive in the ancient techniques of weaving, handcraft and food production.

Natural Uruguay - The Eastern Republic of Uruguay, formerly called Banda Oriental (East Bank), is located in the southern part of South America. It is one of the smallest countries in the continent. According to some studies, it is the least corrupt nation in Latin America after Chile.Furthermore, it has the lowest rate of poverty in the area. People are highly educated, kind and friendly. The population consist mainly of white people and, for the most part, descendants of Italian and Spanish immigrants. There is also, in small proportion, native, mixed race and black people. Another characteristic that distinguishes Uruguay is that it is one of the safest countries of the world with a high standard of living and a high life expectancy. In arriving to Uruguay, you will feel welcome, smothered with attention, and you will realize that, beside the wonderful and varied touristic options, there is affable and polite people who are willing to offer you excelent assistance.

Panama Journey - On this journey you will visit some of Panama's most stunning Caribbean beaches, the San Blas Kuna
Kingdom and experience an unforgettable encounter with the Embera tribe in the Panama Canal watershed. Then you will hike the mountains of Chiriquí on the Costa Rican border, to observe rare and elusive bird species in a tropical cloud forest. Finally, enjoy the beauty of Bocas del Toro, an Afro-Panamanian paradise on the Caribbean coast.

Panama Expedition - Begin your stay in Panama with a visit to an Embera community in Chagres National Park, where you will have to opportunity to learn about their ancient and fascinating way of life. Then travel to El Valle, a charming mountain town in the crater of an extinct volcano high above the Panamanian Pacific coast. Finally, you will be one of few people to stay in the San Blas Islands, the autonomous region of the Kuna Indians. This expedition includes some of Panama’s most interesting Amerindian cultures.

See our Great Adventure Trips website for great ideas
for group tours to other countries on other continents!