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School Trips to Brazil: Rio de Janeiro, the Amazon & the Pantanal

Christ the Redeemer statue and the city of Rio De Janeiro, Brazil

School trips to Brazil are educational group tours that introduce students to the country's colonial history, Atlantic Forest, and Carioca culture.

Three sample itineraries run from $3,865 to $6,195 per student, excluding international airfare, over 7 to 16 days.

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$3,865–$6,195per student across the three sample itineraries7–16 daysthree sample itinerariesCustom school tripsbuilt around your dates, curriculum and budget1 free teacher spotfor every 8 paying studentsSince 1983Rustic Pathways has operated student travel programs
Rustic Pathways · 6082 Pinecone Drive, Mentor, OH 44060 · +1 (440) 975-9691 · groups@rusticpathways.com · rusticpathways.com Student travel programs since 1983.

Brazil School Travel Itineraries

The three Brazil school travel itineraries are Rio, Amazon, Pantanal and Bonito, Pantanal Wildlife and Bonito Rivers, and Rio de Janeiro and Petrópolis. Rio, Amazon, Pantanal and Bonito starts at $6,195 for 16 days, Pantanal Wildlife and Bonito Rivers starts at $3,895 for 10 days, and Rio de Janeiro and Petrópolis starts at $3,865 for 7 days.

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Compare the three itineraries side by side
ItineraryRio, Amazon, Pantanal and BonitoPantanal Wildlife and Bonito RiversRio de Janeiro and Petrópolis
Length16 days10 days7 days
Starting priceFrom $6,195From $3,895From $3,865
Learning focusEnvironmental Science · Geography · CultureBiology · Environmental Science · GeographyHistory · Culture · Environmental Science
RouteRio de Janeiro · Manaus · Amazon Rainforest · São Paulo · Southern Pantanal · BonitoCampo Grande · Southern Pantanal · BonitoRio de Janeiro · Corcovado · Tijuca National Park · Petrópolis
Overnight basesRio de Janeiro (3) · Manaus (1) · Amazon lodge, Rio Negro (3) · São Paulo (1) · Southern Pantanal (3) · Bonito hotel or pousada (3) · São Paulo (1) · In transit (1)Campo Grande (1) · Southern Pantanal (4) · Bonito hotel or pousada (3) · Campo Grande (1) · In transit (1)Rio de Janeiro (6) · In transit (1)
Physical profile7 low · 9 moderate4 low · 6 moderate2 low · 5 moderate
On-program flightsDomestic flights connect Rio de Janeiro to Manaus, Manaus to São Paulo, São Paulo to Campo Grande, and Campo Grande to São Paulo; routing is confirmed for the travel dates.Domestic flights to and from Campo Grande; confirmed for the travel dates. No other flights on program.None. Every day is reached from the one Rio de Janeiro hotel base except the day trip to Petrópolis, which is by road.
Regions coveredFour regions in one trip: Rio de Janeiro, the Amazon, the Southern Pantanal and BonitoFour nights in the Southern Pantanal, three nights in BonitoOne hotel base in Rio de Janeiro for all six nights
Best forBest for departments that want a broad comparison of Brazil's landscapes and communities, with enough time for meaningful field experiences in each region.Best for departments that want a focused nature program with substantial wildlife time and fewer flight-dependent transfers.Best for departments that want an accessible introduction to Brazil through one city and its surroundings, with no domestic flights or hotel changes.
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  1. Rio de Janeiro · Nights one to three; Corcovado, a samba school, Sugarloaf and the coast
  2. Manaus and the Amazon lodge · Night four in Manaus, then three nights at a lodge on the Rio Negro, sixty kilometers west and inside this marker at this scale
  3. São Paulo · Night eight, an overnight connection between the Amazon and the Pantanal, and the last night before the flight home
  4. Southern Pantanal and Bonito · Three nights at a wetland lodge near Miranda, then three nights in Bonito, 120 kilometers south and inside this marker at this scale
The sixteen-day route: three nights in Rio de Janeiro, a flight north to Manaus and three nights at a lodge on the Rio Negro, an overnight connection in São Paulo, three nights at a Southern Pantanal lodge near Miranda, three nights in Bonito, and back to São Paulo to fly home.
  1. Campo Grande · Arrive and depart; the gateway city for the Southern Pantanal
  2. Southern Pantanal and Bonito · Four nights at a wetland lodge near Miranda, then four nights in Bonito, inside this marker at this scale
The ten-day route: arrive at Campo Grande, four nights at a Southern Pantanal lodge near Miranda, four nights in Bonito for the clear rivers, and back to Campo Grande to fly home.
  1. Rio de Janeiro · The base for six nights; Petrópolis, 45 kilometers north, is a day trip inside this marker at this scale
The seven-day route is based in Rio de Janeiro for every program night. Corcovado, Tijuca National Park and the coast are reached from the city, and one day runs north to Petrópolis and back the same evening.
A hyacinth macaw's blue head and shoulders in close profile, its yellow eye-ring and beak patch bright against green forest behind it. Rio de Janeiro · Amazon Rainforest · Southern Pantanal · Bonito 16 days · From $6,195

Rio, Amazon, Pantanal and Bonito

Students explore Rio de Janeiro's mountains and cultural traditions, stay in an Amazon rainforest lodge, observe Southern Pantanal wildlife, and follow Bonito's clear rivers, connecting urban life, forests, wetlands and freshwater conservation.

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10+ studentsEnvironmental Science · Geography · Culture

The route connects Rio de Janeiro, Manaus, Amazon Rainforest, São Paulo, Southern Pantanal, and Bonito.

  1. Rio de Janeiro3 nights
  2. Manaus1 night
  3. Amazon lodge, Rio Negro3 nights
  4. São Paulo1 night
  5. Southern Pantanal3 nights
  6. Bonito hotel or pousada3 nights
  7. São Paulo1 night
  8. Flight home1 night

Your sixteen-day itinerary

  1. Day 1

    Rio de Janeiro's coast and first impressions

    The group meets the Program Leaders and settles into Rio de Janeiro before a light beachfront introduction.

    MorningArrival and transfer to the hotel.
    AfternoonRest, then a short beachfront orientation if arrival timing allows.
    EveningWelcome dinner and an introduction to the route.
    Route
    Airport to the Rio de Janeiro hotel, then a nearby beachfront.
    Travel
    Private transfer and walking; low effort.
    Overnight
    Rio de Janeiro hotel.
    Meals
    Dinner; earlier meals depend on arrival.
    Physical demand
    Low effort.
    Learning outcome
    Students locate Rio de Janeiro's coast, mountains and urban neighborhoods.
  2. Day 2

    Corcovado and Rio de Janeiro's neighborhoods

    The view from Corcovado sets up the geography students explore at street level for the rest of the day.

    MorningChrist the Redeemer by cog train.
    AfternoonLunch and a guided neighborhood walk, with time to rest.
    EveningDinner and a discussion connecting the city's geography with daily life.
    Route
    Hotel to Corcovado, then a neighborhood walk, then back to the hotel.
    Travel
    Road, cog train and walking; moderate effort.
    Overnight
    Rio de Janeiro hotel.
    Meals
    Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
    Physical demand
    Moderate effort.
    Learning outcome
    Students explain how mountains and coast shape settlement and movement in Rio de Janeiro.
  3. Day 3

    Samba and Sugarloaf

    Students explore samba as a living cultural practice, then view Rio de Janeiro from the entrance to the bay.

    MorningA samba school or workshop, with a hosted introduction and lesson.
    AfternoonLunch and downtime, then the Sugarloaf cable car.
    EveningDinner and preparation for the next region, with time held for the group to ask what the samba community's pride in performance says about the life it values, and how that compares with what the group's own community celebrates.
    Route
    Hotel to the samba venue, then Sugarloaf, then back to the hotel.
    Travel
    Private transport and cable car; low to moderate effort.
    Overnight
    Rio de Janeiro hotel.
    Meals
    Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
    Physical demand
    Moderate effort.
    Learning outcome
    Students read what the samba community's pride in performance says about the life it values, and let that reshape how they see their own community's celebrations.
    PlanningViewpoint order depends on weather and ticket availability.
  4. Day 4

    Manaus, gateway to the rainforest

    The group leaves Brazil's Atlantic coast for its Amazon region.

    MorningTransfer to the airport, then the flight to Manaus.
    AfternoonArrival and hotel check-in; a short local walk only if flight timing allows.
    EveningDinner and a rainforest orientation.
    Route
    Rio de Janeiro to Manaus by domestic flight, then the Manaus hotel.
    Travel
    Domestic flight, confirmed for the travel dates; low effort.
    Overnight
    Manaus hotel.
    Meals
    Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
    Physical demand
    Low effort; a travel day.
    Learning outcome
    Students explain Manaus's role as an urban gateway to the Amazon.
  5. Day 5

    Into the Amazon

    The group leaves the city for a lodge with access to forest and river habitats.

    MorningTransfer from Manaus to the Amazon lodge.
    AfternoonSettling in, then a short introductory forest or river outing.
    EveningDinner and a briefing on the next two field days.
    Route
    Manaus to the Amazon rainforest lodge on the Rio Negro.
    Travel
    Road and boat, depending on the lodge; moderate effort.
    Overnight
    Amazon rainforest lodge on the Rio Negro.
    Meals
    Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
    Physical demand
    Moderate effort.
    Learning outcome
    Students identify the relationship between river transport, settlements and forest access.
    PlanningTransfer length is confirmed with the lodge before booking.
  6. Day 6

    Forest life by day and night

    Students observe the forest at two different times, rather than one continuous excursion.

    MorningGuided forest walk: plants, habitat and signs of wildlife.
    AfternoonLunch, rest and field notes at the lodge.
    EveningGuided night outing on an approved trail or water route.
    Route
    Lodge-based excursions on the Rio Negro.
    Travel
    Walking and boat travel; moderate effort.
    Overnight
    Amazon rainforest lodge on the Rio Negro.
    Meals
    Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
    Physical demand
    Moderate effort; uneven ground and humidity.
    Learning outcome
    Students compare daytime and nocturnal activity and the limits of wildlife observation.
  7. Day 7

    River habitats and community life

    A dawn river outing is followed by a visit hosted by a local community.

    MorningGuided canoe or small-boat wildlife observation.
    AfternoonCommunity-hosted activities on local livelihoods, then rest.
    EveningDinner and an exchange with the host community, asking what a good life by the river requires that the group's own home does not.
    Route
    Lodge to the river channels, to the host community and back.
    Travel
    Boat travel and light walking; moderate effort.
    Overnight
    Amazon rainforest lodge on the Rio Negro.
    Meals
    Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
    Physical demand
    Moderate effort.
    Learning outcome
    Students explain how river conditions shape livelihoods and transport here, and name the one thing about that life that would not survive the trip home.
    PlanningHost participation and the exact activity are agreed in advance.
  8. Day 8

    From the Amazon to São Paulo

    A protected transfer day, with no attraction depending on an on-time flight.

    MorningReturn to Manaus with an airport buffer.
    AfternoonFlight to São Paulo.
    EveningHotel check-in and dinner.
    Route
    Amazon lodge to Manaus, then a domestic flight to São Paulo.
    Travel
    Lodge transfer and domestic flight; a long travel day, low effort.
    Overnight
    São Paulo hotel.
    Meals
    Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
    Physical demand
    Low effort; a long travel day.
    Learning outcome
    Students map the distances and transport connections between Brazil's regions.
  9. Day 9

    Into the Southern Pantanal

    Students reach the wetlands and settle into the lodge before the main wildlife days.

    MorningFlight to Campo Grande.
    AfternoonRoad transfer to the Southern Pantanal lodge.
    EveningDinner and a habitat orientation; a brief outing only if arrival allows.
    Route
    São Paulo to Campo Grande by flight, then a road transfer to the Southern Pantanal.
    Travel
    Flight and a substantial road transfer; low effort but a long day.
    Overnight
    Southern Pantanal lodge near Miranda, Mato Grosso do Sul.
    Meals
    Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
    Physical demand
    Low effort; a long day.
    Learning outcome
    Students recognize the contrast between dense rainforest and open wetland landscapes.
  10. Day 10

    Wetland wildlife from land

    The group uses the cooler parts of the day for wildlife observation.

    MorningDawn vehicle safari and a short interpretive walk.
    AfternoonLunch, rest and species identification.
    EveningGuided dusk or night wildlife outing.
    Route
    Lodge-based vehicle and walking excursions in the Southern Pantanal.
    Travel
    Vehicle and walking; moderate effort.
    Overnight
    Southern Pantanal lodge near Miranda, Mato Grosso do Sul.
    Meals
    Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
    Physical demand
    Moderate effort.
    Learning outcome
    Students relate animal behavior to temperature, habitat and time of day.
    PlanningWildlife sightings are unpredictable.
  11. Day 11

    The Pantanal from the river

    Students compare riverside habitats with those observed from land.

    MorningGuided river excursion.
    AfternoonRest, then a contrasting habitat outing chosen by the local guide.
    EveningComparing Amazon and Pantanal field observations.
    Route
    Lodge to the river and nearby habitats and back, in the Southern Pantanal.
    Travel
    Boat, vehicle and short walks; moderate effort.
    Overnight
    Southern Pantanal lodge near Miranda, Mato Grosso do Sul.
    Meals
    Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
    Physical demand
    Moderate effort.
    Learning outcome
    Students explain how vegetation and water conditions influence what observers can see.
  12. Day 12

    From wetlands to Bonito

    A dedicated transfer day introduces the change from wetland ecosystems to limestone-fed rivers.

    MorningLeave the Pantanal lodge after breakfast.
    AfternoonContinue to Bonito, check in and rest.
    EveningBriefing on the next day's river activity.
    Route
    Southern Pantanal to Bonito by road.
    Travel
    Private road transfer with breaks; low effort.
    Overnight
    Bonito hotel or pousada.
    Meals
    Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
    Physical demand
    Low effort.
    Learning outcome
    Students identify the different landscape processes behind the two destinations.
  13. Day 13

    Floating through Rio da Prata

    Students observe an aquatic ecosystem through a guided flotation excursion.

    MorningTransfer to Rio da Prata, equipment fitting and an activity briefing.
    AfternoonGuided river flotation and lunch, then return to Bonito.
    EveningRecording observations of fish, vegetation and water clarity.
    Route
    Bonito to Rio da Prata and back.
    Travel
    Road transfer, walking and flotation; moderate effort.
    Overnight
    Bonito hotel or pousada.
    Meals
    Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
    Physical demand
    Moderate effort.
    Learning outcome
    Students describe how visitor controls help protect a sensitive river environment.
    PlanningParticipation requirements and a suitable alternative are agreed in advance.
  14. Day 14

    Waterfalls and freshwater conservation

    The final full field day covers another part of Bonito's river landscape.

    MorningGuided waterfall trail at Estância Mimosa.
    AfternoonLunch and permitted swimming stops, then return to town.
    EveningA farewell to the field portion of the trip.
    Route
    Bonito to Estância Mimosa and back.
    Travel
    Road transfer and uneven trails; moderate effort.
    Overnight
    Bonito hotel or pousada.
    Meals
    Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
    Physical demand
    Moderate effort.
    Learning outcome
    Students connect upstream land use with river habitat and visitor management.
    Customization
    This day can exchange places with day 13 if reservations and conditions permit.
  15. Day 15

    Back to São Paulo

    Students finish the long ground transfer and flight before the international departure day.

    MorningDrive to Campo Grande, with planned breaks.
    AfternoonFlight to São Paulo.
    EveningFinal dinner and a comparison of the four regions.
    Route
    Bonito to Campo Grande by road, then a flight to São Paulo.
    Travel
    Road and air; a long travel day, low effort.
    Overnight
    São Paulo hotel.
    Meals
    Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
    Physical demand
    Low effort; a long travel day.
    Learning outcome
    Students support a comparison of Brazil's ecosystems with specific observations.
  16. Day 16

    Brazil reflections and departure

    The final day protects the international connection home.

    MorningBreakfast and a final group reflection.
    AfternoonLunch and an airport transfer, timed to the flight schedule.
    EveningInternational departure.
    Route
    São Paulo hotel to the departure airport.
    Travel
    Private transfer; low effort.
    Overnight
    In transit.
    Meals
    Breakfast and lunch when the departure schedule allows.
    Physical demand
    Low effort.
    Learning outcome
    Students summarize how the trip changed their understanding of Brazil.
An aerial view of a turquoise spring-fed river winding through dense green forest near Bonito, its clear water bright against the surrounding wetland. Southern Pantanal · Bonito 10 days · From $3,895

Pantanal Wildlife and Bonito Rivers

Students spend four nights in the Southern Pantanal observing wildlife from land and water, then travel to Bonito for guided river flotation and freshwater landscape study.

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10+ studentsBiology · Environmental Science · Geography

The route connects Campo Grande, Southern Pantanal, and Bonito.

  1. Campo Grande1 night
  2. Southern Pantanal4 nights
  3. Bonito hotel or pousada3 nights
  4. Campo Grande1 night
  5. Flight home1 night

Your ten-day itinerary

  1. Day 1

    Campo Grande and the wetland gateway

    Students settle into the region before the lodge transfer begins the next morning.

    MorningArrival in Campo Grande, on the flight schedule.
    AfternoonHotel transfer, rest and orientation.
    EveningWelcome dinner and an introduction to the Pantanal.
    Route
    Airport to the Campo Grande hotel.
    Travel
    Private transfer; low effort.
    Overnight
    Campo Grande hotel.
    Meals
    Dinner; earlier meals depend on arrival.
    Physical demand
    Low effort.
    Learning outcome
    Students locate the wetlands and Bonito within central-western Brazil.
  2. Day 2

    First encounters in the Pantanal

    The road into the wetlands becomes an introduction to changing habitats.

    MorningTransfer to the Pantanal lodge.
    AfternoonSettling in, then a short introductory wildlife outing.
    EveningDinner and species identification.
    Route
    Campo Grande to the Southern Pantanal lodge.
    Travel
    A substantial road transfer, then a light excursion; moderate effort.
    Overnight
    Southern Pantanal lodge.
    Meals
    Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
    Physical demand
    Moderate effort.
    Learning outcome
    Students recognize major habitats and begin an observation record.
  3. Day 3

    Wetland edges and riverbanks

    Students compare wildlife observations on foot and from the water.

    MorningDawn guided walk.
    AfternoonRest, then a river excursion.
    EveningDiscussion of the species and behaviors observed.
    Route
    Lodge-based walking route and river excursion, in the Southern Pantanal.
    Travel
    Walking and boat travel; moderate effort.
    Overnight
    Southern Pantanal lodge.
    Meals
    Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
    Physical demand
    Moderate effort.
    Learning outcome
    Students explain how observation method changes the evidence collected.
  4. Day 4

    Wildlife across the open landscape

    A vehicle outing reaches habitats beyond the lodge grounds.

    MorningGuided safari drive with interpretation stops.
    AfternoonLunch and downtime.
    EveningGuided nocturnal wildlife observation.
    Route
    Lodge-based vehicle excursions in the Southern Pantanal.
    Travel
    Vehicle excursions; low to moderate effort.
    Overnight
    Southern Pantanal lodge.
    Meals
    Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
    Physical demand
    Moderate effort.
    Learning outcome
    Students compare daytime and nighttime animal activity.
  5. Day 5

    Following the strongest wildlife opportunities

    This flexible field day responds to recent sightings and habitat conditions.

    MorningRevisiting a productive habitat, or exploring a contrasting one.
    AfternoonRest, then a lodge-hosted discussion of ranching and conservation.
    EveningConsolidating the group's wildlife records, then sitting with the ranch family on how they see their own relationship with the wetland, and where that differs from what a visiting student assumes.
    Route
    Lodge and surrounding habitats in the Southern Pantanal.
    Travel
    Vehicle, boat or walking, selected locally; moderate effort.
    Overnight
    Southern Pantanal lodge.
    Meals
    Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
    Physical demand
    Moderate effort.
    Learning outcome
    Students notice what surprised them in a ranch family's account of living with wildlife, then weigh that view against a pattern they recorded themselves, wary of a conclusion drawn from too few sightings.
  6. Day 6

    Bonito and the limestone landscape

    Students leave the wetlands for the second field base.

    MorningDeparture from the lodge.
    AfternoonArrival in Bonito and check-in.
    EveningIntroduction to river protection and flotation procedures.
    Route
    Southern Pantanal to Bonito by road.
    Travel
    Private road transfer with breaks; low effort.
    Overnight
    Bonito hotel or pousada.
    Meals
    Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
    Physical demand
    Low effort.
    Learning outcome
    Students compare the physical setting of Bonito with the Pantanal.
  7. Day 7

    Rio da Prata beneath the surface

    The group studies freshwater life through direct, guided observation.

    MorningTransfer, equipment fitting and a briefing.
    AfternoonRiver flotation and lunch, then return to town.
    EveningIdentifying patterns in the aquatic plants and fish observed.
    Route
    Bonito to Rio da Prata and back.
    Travel
    Road, walking and flotation; moderate effort.
    Overnight
    Bonito hotel or pousada.
    Meals
    Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
    Physical demand
    Moderate effort.
    Learning outcome
    Students explain why a clear river still requires strict visitor management.
    PlanningParticipation requirements and alternatives are confirmed before booking.
  8. Day 8

    Waterfalls and forested riverbanks

    A waterfall trail gives students a second perspective on freshwater habitats.

    MorningGuided trail at Estância Mimosa.
    AfternoonLunch and permitted swimming stops.
    EveningComparing river management in Bonito with wetland conservation.
    Route
    Bonito to Estância Mimosa and back.
    Travel
    Road and uneven trails; moderate effort.
    Overnight
    Bonito hotel or pousada.
    Meals
    Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
    Physical demand
    Moderate effort.
    Learning outcome
    Students describe how surrounding vegetation helps sustain river ecosystems.
    Customization
    A cave-focused group can replace this day with a confirmed cave excursion.
  9. Day 9

    Returning to Campo Grande

    The final road transfer is completed without an international flight deadline.

    MorningDeparture from Bonito after breakfast.
    AfternoonArrival in Campo Grande and check-in.
    EveningFarewell dinner and student presentations.
    Route
    Bonito to Campo Grande by road.
    Travel
    Private road transfer with breaks; low effort.
    Overnight
    Campo Grande hotel.
    Meals
    Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
    Physical demand
    Low effort.
    Learning outcome
    Students use observations from both destinations to compare conservation approaches.
  10. Day 10

    Bringing the fieldwork home

    Students close their field records and begin the journey home.

    MorningBreakfast and checkout, on the flight schedule.
    AfternoonAirport transfer and departure.
    EveningOnward travel.
    Route
    Campo Grande hotel to the airport.
    Travel
    Private transfer; low effort.
    Overnight
    In transit, if required.
    Meals
    Breakfast and lunch when the departure schedule allows.
    Physical demand
    Low effort.
    Learning outcome
    Students identify one question the trip answered and one needing further investigation.
Sugarloaf Mountain rising over Guanabara Bay at sunset, seen from the water past a marina of moored sailboats. Rio de Janeiro · Tijuca National Park · Petrópolis 7 days · From $3,865

Rio de Janeiro and Petrópolis

Students explore Rio de Janeiro's historic center, learn at a samba workshop, travel through Tijuca Forest to Corcovado, spend a day on the coast, and visit Petrópolis, returning to the same Rio de Janeiro hotel every evening.

Choose this program
10+ studentsHistory · Culture · Environmental Science

The route connects Rio de Janeiro, Corcovado, Tijuca National Park, and Petrópolis.

  1. Rio de Janeiro6 nights
  2. Flight home1 night

Your seven-day itinerary

  1. Day 1

    Rio de Janeiro's beachfront welcome

    Students begin with time to recover before a light introduction to their base.

    MorningArrival and meeting the Program Leaders.
    AfternoonHotel transfer, rest and a short beachfront walk if timing permits.
    EveningWelcome dinner and orientation.
    Route
    Arrival airport to the hotel, then a nearby beachfront.
    Travel
    Private transfer and light walking; low effort.
    Overnight
    Rio de Janeiro hotel.
    Meals
    Dinner; earlier meals depend on arrival.
    Physical demand
    Low effort.
    Learning outcome
    Students identify how the coastline organizes daily life in Rio de Janeiro.
  2. Day 2

    Corcovado and Tijuca Forest

    Students connect the landmark above the city with the forest surrounding it.

    MorningCog train to Corcovado and Christ the Redeemer.
    AfternoonLunch, then a short guided Tijuca Forest walk.
    EveningDiscussion of urban growth and forest protection.
    Route
    Hotel to Corcovado, then a Tijuca Forest trail, then back to the hotel.
    Travel
    Road, cog train and walking; moderate effort.
    Overnight
    Rio de Janeiro hotel.
    Meals
    Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
    Physical demand
    Moderate effort.
    Learning outcome
    Students explain why a forest within a major city matters.
    Customization
    Trail length is matched to the group; this is not a strenuous hiking day.
  3. Day 3

    Historic Rio de Janeiro and living samba

    Students move from the city's historic institutions to a contemporary cultural tradition.

    MorningGuided historic-center walk around Praça XV, with selected landmark visits.
    AfternoonHosted samba workshop and lesson.
    EveningDinner, then small groups comparing the historic-center walk against the samba workshop on whose Rio de Janeiro each represented, the guidebook's or the one the samba school lives alongside, and what each leaves out.
    Route
    Hotel to the historic center, then the samba venue, then back to the hotel.
    Travel
    Road transfers and walking; moderate effort.
    Overnight
    Rio de Janeiro hotel.
    Meals
    Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
    Physical demand
    Moderate effort.
    Learning outcome
    Students name one moment from the historic-center walk and one from the samba workshop, and explain what each showed them that the other could not, connecting public history with living cultural expression.
    Customization
    Venue and opening times determine the final sequence.
  4. Day 4

    A day along the coast

    The group explores a coastal setting by boat, with time to observe rather than rush between stops.

    MorningTransfer to the boat dock and boarding.
    AfternoonCoastal excursion with lunch and permitted swimming stops.
    EveningReturn to Rio de Janeiro and a discussion of coastal tourism.
    Route
    Rio de Janeiro hotel to the coastal boat dock, along the boat route, then back to the hotel.
    Travel
    Road and boat travel; moderate effort.
    Overnight
    Rio de Janeiro hotel.
    Meals
    Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
    Physical demand
    Moderate effort.
    Learning outcome
    Students identify ways recreation and tourism affect coastal environments.
    SwimmingSwimming from the boat is optional and in view of a Program Leader. A student who does not swim stays aboard and joins the same debrief.
  5. Day 5

    Petrópolis and imperial Brazil

    Students travel into the hills to compare imperial institutions with the history encountered in Rio de Janeiro.

    MorningRoad transfer to Petrópolis and the Imperial Museum.
    AfternoonLunch and a town walk, including the cathedral area.
    EveningReturn to Rio de Janeiro for dinner.
    Route
    Rio de Janeiro to Petrópolis and back the same day.
    Travel
    Substantial return road travel and town walking; moderate effort.
    Overnight
    Rio de Janeiro hotel.
    Meals
    Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
    Physical demand
    Moderate effort.
    Learning outcome
    Students explain how Petrópolis expressed the priorities of Brazil's monarchy.
    Customization
    Museum opening days determine placement in the week.
  6. Day 6

    Beach life and Sugarloaf

    An unhurried morning balances the week before a final view over the city.

    MorningSupervised beach time and observation of public space.
    AfternoonLunch, then the Sugarloaf cable car.
    EveningFarewell dinner and final reflections.
    Route
    Hotel to the beach, then Sugarloaf, then back to the hotel.
    Travel
    Road, cable car and light walking; low to moderate effort.
    Overnight
    Rio de Janeiro hotel.
    Meals
    Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
    Physical demand
    Moderate effort.
    Learning outcome
    Students compare Rio de Janeiro's public spaces from the street, the beach and the mountaintop.
    Customization
    Sugarloaf timing depends on visibility and available tickets.
  7. Day 7

    Rio de Janeiro reflections and departure

    The last morning offers breathing room before the journey home.

    MorningBreakfast, packing and a final reflection.
    AfternoonLunch and an airport transfer.
    EveningInternational departure.
    Route
    Rio de Janeiro hotel to the departure airport.
    Travel
    Private transfer; low effort.
    Overnight
    In transit, according to flights.
    Meals
    Breakfast and lunch when the departure schedule allows.
    Physical demand
    Low effort.
    Learning outcome
    Students support a changed understanding of Brazil with examples from the week.
What applies across every itinerary
Groups and teachers
Groups start at ten students; we consider smaller groups individually. One teacher's Program Tuition is free for every eight paying students.
Rooming
Students share rooms, separated by gender, each with their own bed. Teachers get private rooms.
Price
The price doesn't cover flights to and from the program, travel insurance, medical insurance, or pocket money.
Flights and documents
Book the international flights yourselves, or ask us to arrange them. Passports and visas are on the families, and we'll guide them through it.
Supervision
Program Leaders lead scheduled activities, stay on site and are available overnight. The approved itinerary specifies any free time, and Program Leaders are present during it.
Effort
Low means limited walking. Moderate is a full day on foot, a guided walk on forest trails, or a day of vehicle and boat wildlife excursions, in heat and humidity. High effort is not on these itineraries. On a water day, anyone not swimming stays with a Program Leader.
Flexibility
Ticketed activities like the cog train and the samba school are booked ahead and move only with them. Boat and flotation days move with the weather.
Decision documents

Where do Brazil school trips go?

Brazil school trips begin in Rio de Janeiro and can extend to the Amazon, Southern Pantanal and Bonito. Longer itineraries connect these regions by domestic flights and road transfers.

In Rio, students explore Tijuca National Park, Corcovado, the coast and Petrópolis. Longer routes add rainforest, wetland and river experiences based from regional lodges.

Program Leaders adjust activities for weather and field conditions. Rio boat trips depend on sea forecasts, Bonito flotation and waterfall days can switch, and Pantanal field days respond to wildlife sightings. Every itinerary keeps the final morning open for an easier departure.

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  1. Rio de Janeiro · Base for every itinerary; Petrópolis is visited as a day trip.
  2. Manaus · Gateway to the Amazon by domestic flight.
  3. Amazon rainforest lodge · Three nights of forest and Rio Negro field study.
  4. São Paulo · Overnight connection on the longest itinerary.
  5. Southern Pantanal · Wetland lodge with wildlife excursions.
  6. Bonito · River flotation and waterfall trails.

How much does a school trip to Brazil cost?

A school trip to Brazil costs $3,865 to $6,195 per student for program tuition, or approximately $387 to $552 per day. Tuition covers lodging, meals, airport transfers, in-country transport, scheduled activities, guides, and entrance fees.

Schools receive one complimentary program tuition place for every eight paying students. Airfare is not included.

Program Tuition covers accommodation, meals, in-country transport, domestic flights where the route uses them, scheduled activities and entrance fees. Schools receive one complimentary Program Tuition place per eight paying students and a group-specific quote.

$3,865 to $6,195

per student across the sample itineraries, excluding international airfare.

7 to 16 days

program length across the three sample itineraries, including travel days.

Group quote

every school receives its own, built on dates, group size and route.

What the price includes
IncludedWhat it covers
TravelAccommodation for every program night, meals and drinking water, airport transfers, in-country transport and any domestic flights the route uses, scheduled activities, and entrance fees.
Staff and supportAt least two trained Program Leaders, including both a male and a female leader, pre-departure planning, and school documentation.
Community donationsRequired by a service project, paid by Rustic Pathways and never collected from students.
ChaperonesOne complimentary Program Tuition place per eight paying students. Chaperone airfare and insurance are separate.

Not included: International airfare, travel insurance, medical insurance, personal spending, passport or visa fees, and vaccinations.

What changes the price?
EffectFactor
raisesPeak-season and holiday-week dates
raisesUpgraded lodging, which moves the price directly
raisesExtra chaperones beyond the complimentary place
raisesShortening a trip does not shrink its fixed costs. Divided across fewer days, those costs push the daily rate up.
lowersA larger group spreads the same fixed costs across more students. Group size does not change what those costs are.
lowersThe shoulder season falls outside peak and holiday weeks.

Payment and cancellation

Installment plans are available. Review the current enrollment terms.

Families can enroll directly and use monthly installments, or the school can pay as a group.
Request Brazil pricing

What do students learn on a Brazil school trip?

Students on a Brazil school trip learn about history, culture, and environmental science through field experiences in Rio de Janeiro, Petrópolis, the Amazon, the Pantanal, and Bonito.

  • History

    Students trace Brazil's colonial and imperial history through São Bento Monastery, Praça XV, and the Imperial Museum in Petrópolis.

    How did Brazil's colonial past shape its cities and national identity?

    Rio de Janeiro and Petrópolis

  • Cultural Studies

    Students explore Carnaval from inside a samba school, learning how a parade is created and taking part in a dance workshop.

    How does Carnaval connect performance, community, and Brazilian culture?

    Rio de Janeiro and Petrópolis

  • Environmental Science

    Students compare the Atlantic Forest, Amazon rainforest, Pantanal wetlands, and Bonito's spring-fed rivers through guided field activities.

    How do Brazil's forests, wetlands, and freshwater ecosystems differ?

    Rio, Amazon, Pantanal and Bonito

Who supervises and manages the trip to Brazil?

School chaperones and Rustic Pathways Program Leaders supervise and manage the school trip to Brazil together.

Rustic Pathways manages the itinerary, accommodation, ground transport, activities and emergency procedures; your school manages its own student conduct and communication policies.

Your school can book international flights directly or ask Rustic Pathways to arrange them. Families receive trip logistics and itinerary information through the MyRustic web app.

How safety is managed on a school trip to Brazil

Program Leaders manage local operations and safety procedures alongside school chaperones. Across 13 years of published incident data from every Rustic Pathways program worldwide, 87% of reports were GREEN, the minor tier where the group stays intact.

What the team plans for

  • Rio de Janeiro city days

    City traffic, crowds and group movement in the historic center and the neighborhoods every route stays in

  • The coast and the boat day

    Sun exposure, water safety and the swimming rules for the day on the water

  • Tijuca and Corcovado

    Heat, trail walking in the park, and the cog train to the summit

  • The Amazon lodge

    River and canoe travel, heat and humidity, insects, and the lodge's distance from definitive medical care

  • The Southern Pantanal and Bonito

    Open-vehicle wildlife excursions, heat, remote lodge distances, and guided river flotation with fitted equipment

Level 2  Exercise increased caution. The August 31, 2026 U.S. advisory rates Brazil at Level 2 for crime and advises avoiding informal housing developments. The three itineraries do not approach areas covered by the advisory's land-border cautions.

Controls built into every trip

  • Written risk plan. A score above 5 requires new controls, reassessment or cancellation.

  • Two-Deep Leadership. A single staff member is never alone with students, and at least two trained Program Leaders, including both a male and a female leader, support each School Group Travel trip.

  • Assessed activity vendors. Boat, transport, samba school, lodge and flotation operators are reviewed before use, every one to two years, and on site when high risk.

  • Medical readiness. WFR coverage for remote programs, including the Amazon and Southern Pantanal lodges, and Dr. William R. Smith, dedicated Medical Director since 2015.

Is Rustic Pathways the right partner for your school trip to Brazil?

Yes, Rustic Pathways is the right partner for private, curriculum-focused school trips to Brazil. Your school chooses the travel dates, and Rustic Pathways builds the itinerary around your curriculum.

Students travel only with their teachers and classmates and never join another school's group. Individual students can join open enrollment teen travel programs to Brazil instead.

A strong fit
  • You want one private group with your dates and your teachers.
  • You can travel for 7 to 16 days, depending on the itinerary.
  • You have 10 or more students.
  • You want a sample itinerary already built around Rio de Janeiro, the Amazon, the Southern Pantanal or Bonito.
Talk with us first
  • A student has significant mobility, medical, sensory, mental-health, dietary, or religious support needs.
  • You have fewer than 10 students.
  • A student is not a confident swimmer. Every itinerary includes at least one boat or flotation day; anyone not swimming stays with a Program Leader, and the support plan is set before booking.
Probably not a fit
  • You are an individual student or parent looking for open enrollment teen travel programs to Brazil.
  • You want your group merged with another school.
  • You want a single-base trip but fewer than seven days; the shortest sample itinerary runs seven days from one Rio de Janeiro hotel.

Support planning starts early

Raise individual needs before booking so Rustic Pathways can assess them and adapt the route and support plan where feasible.

Questions about school trips to Brazil

The questions schools ask most before requesting a Brazil proposal, answered from the itineraries and prices on this page.

How much does a school trip to Brazil cost?

A Rustic Pathways school trip to Brazil costs $3,865 to $6,195 per student for 7 to 16 days, excluding international airfare.

Pricing varies by itinerary, trip length and group size. Accommodation, meals, in-country transportation, scheduled domestic flights, activities and entrance fees are included.

When is the best time for a school trip to Brazil?

May through September is the best time for a school trip to Rio de Janeiro, with generally drier, milder conditions than the hotter, wetter months from December through March.

Brazil spans several climate regions, so conditions vary on itineraries that include the Amazon, Pantanal and Bonito. Rustic Pathways builds each trip around your school's travel dates.

Patrick Ziemnik, Leader of Global Operations at Rustic Pathways.
Patrick Ziemnik has been with Rustic Pathways since 2012 and leads global operations. He directed teen travel programs as Country Director in Mongolia, Tanzania and Costa Rica.

Have a question before you ask for a proposal?

Patrick Ziemnik answers Brazil school-trip questions with the school travel team.

Send your group size, dates, trip length, and what you want students to learn. I’ll reply within 1 business day and send you options within 48 hours, and no sales call unless you ask for one.

Start with your travel window

Start your Brazil trip proposal with your travel dates, group size, and learning goals. Receive a reply within 1 business day and customized trip options within 48 hours.

Or reach a person directly: +1 440-975-9691 or groups@rusticpathways.com

Need approval or funding first?

Certificate of insurance, risk management plans, and fundraising templates for families, on request.

Step 1 of 2 · Your contact details

We reply within 1 business day and send options within 48 hours.

Submitting this form starts a conversation with the Rustic Pathways school travel team. Read the Rustic Pathways privacy policy.

The curve of Copacabana beach with its line of apartment blocks and the forested hills behind them.Forested hills around Petrópolis at golden hour, ridgelines receding into haze toward the coast.A waterfall in Tijuca National Park dropping over mossy rock through the forest canopy.The double-tiered stone arches of the Arcos da Lapa aqueduct in Rio de Janeiro's historic center.