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Windsor Marapendi Hotel

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Upscale Barra da Tijuca, on the western edge of Rio de Janeiro, was given a huge facelift ready for the 2016 Olympics. With a glorious 18km sweep of golden sand – Rio’s largest beach – and multiple options for refreshments and dining, Barra offers a calmer, alternative base for sightseeing in Rio combined with time to unwind after a trip to the interior. The Windsor Marapendi is one of many high quality hotels built for the Olympics. Facilities and services are aligned with the high standards of the well-regarded Windsor chain, including a rooftop pool and panoramic terrace, restaurant and fitness room. For a change of scene it’s around 15km by taxi to Rio’s upscale Leblon neighbourhood (just west of Ipanema and Copacabana) which is packed with dining and entertainment options.

What our clients say

Highlights?: The sighting of Fera the jaguar, and the giant otter sighting at Rio Mutum.
MM, Ascot Sep 2017
Most Memorable Moment?: We were lucky enough to have a major thunder storm overnight at the Iguazu falls and these were unbelievably spectacular the next day. Also the Lencois Marahenas…
KT, Andover Nov 2017
Most Memorable Moment?: Trip to Mount Corcovado & Sugar Loaf but many memorable moments.
MB, Bishop's stortford Sep 2017
Highlight?: Days in Olinda during Carnaval practice. Delta cruise from Parnaiba and 5 days in Jeri.
JI, Orpington Feb 2018
This trip was memorable from start to finish. We will definitely be visiting Brazil again.
JH, Dorking Mar 2015
The Iguazu falls were amazing. Brazilia was also a real experience and is undersold - it is a really singular place to visit - the parliament and other buildings are…
AB, Reading Feb 2016

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Our Expert's Opinion

Sally Dodge - Travel Expert

A former Journey Latin America tour leader, Sally spent 7 years working, travelling and living throughout Latin America before returning to the UK to help people arrange their own adventures to this wonderful destination.

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Meet our team

Real Latin american experts

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Ben Line - Travel Expert

Ben fell in love with Latin America on a six month backpacking trip from Colombia to Mexico in 1995. Since then he has explored most of South America, including living in Peru for a year. He is now Head of Sales.
Hannah Donaldson - Travel Expert

Having spent part of her childhood in Colombia and worked in Brazil and Costa Rica, Hannah's ties to Latin America run deep. Hannah is a much valued Travel Expert in our Tailor-made Holidays and Group Tours sales team.
Paul Winrow-Giffin - Travel Expert

After graduating in Computer Science, Paul spent seven months travelling from Colombia to Argentina and came home hooked on Latin America.
Sally Dodge - Travel Expert

A former Journey Latin America tour leader, Sally spent 7 years working, travelling and living throughout Latin America before returning to the UK to help people arrange their own adventures to this wonderful destination.
Rosie Kay - Travel Expert

During a career break, Rosie embarked on an unforgettable year-long backpacking trip across Latin America. Now back in the UK, she is excited to share her knowledge and experiences with others, helping them discover her favourite place in the world.
Heloise Buxton - Travel Expert

Heloise started her Latin American journey as an exchange student in Santiago, Chile. With extended summer holidays this was the perfect opportunity to backpack through Bolivia, Peru, Argentina and Brazil.