Brazil
The Amazon // Rio // Iguazu Falls
South America had long been a continent I had wanted to visit. At the time (2018), I had been to Europe, Asia, Africa, and of course, North America. Ultimately I ended up deciding to take a solo trip to Brazil. I like moving quickly and pack a lot into my trips. Let’s just say my ideal vacation typically does NOT involve lounging around in a pool next to the beach. In doing my research, three main areas excited me: the Amazon, the city of Rio de Janeiro, and Iguazu Falls.
The Amazon was great. I loved my safari in Africa and got to do the South American version here. Saw caiman, all sorts of colorful birds, pink dolphins (!), sloths, lizards, and monkeys.
Rio was spectacular. One of the prettiest cities I have every been to. As a camera guy, I was in heaven.
Iguazu Falls is one of the biggest waterfalls in the world. Got to visit both the Brazil and Argentina sides. They say you get the best views of the falls from Brazil, but Argentina is where you FEEL the falls. Accurate.
The itinerary:
Days 1-2: Travel - SEA-MIA-MAO
Days 2-5: City of Manaus, Amazon Rainforest
Days 5-8: Rio de Janeiro
Days 8-9: Sao Paulo
Days 9-11: Iguazu Falls
Days 11-12: Return Home (GRU-MAO-MIA-SEA)