Highlights / General details
Although the ranking of the world's largest cities is fiercely disputed and forever changing, official estimates place São Paulo's metropolitan population at a staggering 18 million, which makes it the fifth largest of all. The city was founded in 1554 by a group of Jesuit Priests who settled high up on the Piratinanga Plateau. By the 17th century, the growing slave trade had seen the settlement grow into a base for the Bandeirantes (slave traders). Over the years, the declaration of Brazilian independence and the expansion of coffee cultivation led to an influx of millions of Europeans and the establishment of many industries, transforming São Paulo into a vast city.
Today, São Paulo is just about as diverse as its size: from the historical city center and Chinatown to Bela Vista (the Italian quarter), Bairro da Liberdade (the oriental quarter) and the new financial district, São Paulo is a conglomeration of contrasting suburbs and neighborhoods, a miniature world in its own right.
The excursion visits local landmarks such as MASP Art Museum, the Sé and Republic Squares, and the Governor's Palace, thereby providing a glimpse into São Paulo's numerous architectural and cultural treasures. There's also a visit to the Butantan Institute, a world-famous center where snakes are kept and their venom is extracted to produce antidote, plus Ibirapuara Park, where there's a brief stop to admire the famous Bandeirantes Monument. The final stop is at the summit of Morumbi Hill, site of the Jockey Club, from where there is a fine panorama of the city.
Inclusion
Hotel pick-up and drop-off within center; Private Transportation; Guided Tour.
Exclusion
Entrance Fees; Food and Beverages; Gratuities.
Hours of operation
Available: Daily. No tour departures on: January 1; February 24 - March 5 (Carnival); December 24-25, 31.
Duration
Approximately 8 hours.
Location
Tour departs from guest hotel within center.
Policies
Cancellation: 2 days prior 100% penalty. No show always 100% penalty.
*2 PASSENGERS MINIMUM REQUIRED TO CONFIRM RESERVATION*
Complete information, including local telephone numbers at your destination, will be included on your Confirmation Voucher.
**All information requested must be supplied or booking is subject to automatic cancellation**