Mexico & Brazil

Day 1: Arrival & Historic Center (Mexico)

Welcome to Mexico City! Upon arrival, our representative will greet you at the airport and escort you to your hotel. After settling in, you will take an evening stroll through the magnificent Zócalo — the vast main square of Mexico City and one of the largest city squares in the world. Here you will admire the stunning Metropolitan Cathedral, the oldest in the Americas, and the Palacio Nacional. The energy of this ancient city, built on the ruins of the Aztec capital Tenochtitlán, is immediately captivating. Enjoy a welcome dinner at a local restaurant nearby before returning to the hotel for a restful first night.

Day 2: Our Lady of Guadalupe

Today is the spiritual centerpiece of the Mexico leg of our journey. We travel to the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe — the most visited Catholic pilgrimage site in the world and one of the most visited sacred sites on earth, receiving over 20 million visitors annually. Here, in 1531, the Virgin Mary appeared to the indigenous peasant Juan Diego and miraculously imprinted her image on his tilma (cloak), an image that remains perfectly preserved to this day despite scientific explanation.

You will have time to pray at the original tilma, explore the Old Basilica and New Basilica, walk the grounds of the hill of Tepeyac, and soak in the extraordinary spiritual atmosphere of this holy place. Many visitors report profound experiences of healing, peace, and closeness to God on this hill. The afternoon includes a visit to a traditional Mexican market before a cultural dinner.

"Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb." — Luke 1:42

Day 3: Mexico City Culture & Fly to Rio

After a leisurely breakfast, spend the morning at leisure exploring Chapultepec Park — one of the largest city parks in the world and home to the famous Chapultepec Castle, which offers panoramic views of the city. Browse the park's museums and local artisan markets before a final traditional Mexican lunch.

In the afternoon, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil — where a completely different and spectacular world awaits. Upon arrival in Rio, a representative will escort you to your beachside hotel in the iconic Ipanema or Copacabana district. Enjoy the warm ocean breeze and Brazilian hospitality as you settle in for the Brazilian leg of your pilgrimage.

Day 4: Christ the Redeemer & Sugarloaf Mountain

Today features two of the most iconic experiences in all of South America. Begin your morning with a visit to Christ the Redeemer (Cristo Redentor) — one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World — an enormous Art Deco statue of Jesus Christ standing 98 feet tall atop Corcovado Mountain, arms outstretched over the city. The views from the top are absolutely breathtaking, and standing in the shadow of this magnificent Christ statue is a deeply moving spiritual experience.

In the afternoon, take the cable car to the summit of Sugarloaf Mountain (Pão de Açúcar) for sweeping 360-degree views of Rio's famous harbor, Guanabara Bay, and the sprawling city below. Enjoy dinner at a traditional Brazilian churrascaria (steakhouse) in the evening.

Day 5: Copacabana, Ipanema & Local Culture

After breakfast, enjoy a morning stroll along the world-famous Copacabana Beach boardwalk — one of the most iconic stretches of beach on earth. The mosaic black-and-white sidewalks, colorful beach umbrellas, and vibrant atmosphere are uniquely Rio. In the afternoon, head to Ipanema Beach, celebrated in song and known for its stunning natural beauty set against the dramatic Two Brothers mountain peaks.

Visit the Nossa Senhora da Paz Church (Our Lady of Peace) in Ipanema — a beautiful Catholic parish beloved by locals. Explore the Feira Hippie de Ipanema artisan market, perfect for unique souvenirs. In the evening, enjoy a Samba show — the vibrant, joyful heartbeat of Brazilian culture.

Day 6: Santa Teresa, Selarón Steps & Rio de Janeiro

Start the day in the charming hilltop neighborhood of Santa Teresa — Rio's bohemian arts district known for cobblestone streets, colonial mansions converted into galleries, and a relaxed creative atmosphere. Ride the historic tram (bonde) through the neighborhood for a unique local experience.

Next, visit the world-famous Selarón Steps (Escadaria Selarón) — an extraordinary mosaic staircase created by Chilean artist Jorge Selarón, who dedicated this vibrant work of art to the Brazilian people. The steps are covered in over 2,000 tiles collected from 60+ countries and represent one of the most colorful and photographed spots in all of South America.

In the afternoon, visit the Metropolitan Cathedral of Saint Sebastian — a stunning modernist structure designed to look like a Mayan pyramid. End the day with a farewell dinner at one of Rio's finest restaurants overlooking the bay.

Day 7: Coastal Leisure & Departure (Rio)

On our final morning in Rio, enjoy a relaxed breakfast and some free time at the beach or exploring the local neighborhood. Pick up any last-minute souvenirs from the local markets and soak in the final views of this extraordinary city.

In the afternoon, you will be transferred to Galeão International Airport for your flight back to the USA, carrying with you memories of miraculous apparitions, the outstretched arms of Christ overlooking a great city, the colors of Selarón, and the warm embrace of two incredible nations.