The southernmost state of Brazil, Rio Grande do Sul, shares its traditional Gaucho cattle ranch tradition, along with neighbouring Argentina and Uruguay. You’ll see cattle ranches, eat barbeque called churrasco and drink chimarrão, a strong herbal tea, or wine from one of the local wineries.

The amethyst mines in Brazil are considered the best in the world. There are hundreds of working mines in the Rio Grande do Sul area; amazing mines of Selenite, Agate, Calcite and other. Experience a journey of discovery through Brazil’s diverse ecosystems.

Activities:

· Mine exploration

· Mineral collection

· City tours

· Gem fair admission & attendance

· Dealer warehouse purchasing visits

Accommodations: 7 nights at best hotels available.

Meals: All breakfasts, 8 lunches and 8 dinners included.

Trip fee includes:

· Shared accommodation (two persons in twin-bedded room w/ private bathroom) in the best hotels available (additional rates apply for single room occupancy).

· All meals included: breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily (except breakfast and lunch on arrival day and dinner on departure day).

· Ground transportation provided by van or bus while on tour. (Special vehicles may be required to access some mines).

· Mines and other sites entrance fees.

· Gratuities  - all except your Geo Tour leader and guides

· Services of a specialized guide assistant and English speaking tour leader

· Arrival / Departure transfer (if you arrive & depart on the scheduled tour dates)

· Arrangements: The tour price includes planning, handling, and operating charges. The final cost of the trip may vary moderately depending on the final number of participants and variations in foreign currencies or tariff rates. The cost is subject to revision.

· Charitable Donation: The tour cost includes a 5% tax-deductible donation to the Creche MeiMei in Teófilo Otoni. A letter of acknowledgment for tax purposes will be provided at the conclusion of the tour.

Trip fee excludes:

· Air fare to & from Brazil including connections

· Airport departure taxes and/or user fees

· Passport, Visa and permit fees

· Transfers arriving/departing on different days than our published dates, or to leave or join the group once it has started

· Trip cancellation/interruption insurance

· Additional medical insurance coverage

· Tour Leader and guides gratuities

· Personal Travel insurance

· Optional excursions or deviations from the scheduled tour

· Overweight baggage

· All items of a personal nature (i.e. laundry, beverages, telephone calls, and gratuities for extra services)

· Special order meal items and any item not specifically mentioned as included

· Breakfast and lunch on arrival day and dinner on departure day.

"Wonders of the South" 2009 was a success!

Our successful first tour: "Wonders of the South"

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Recorded videos: click here

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