Starting in July 2026, European travelers will gain direct access to one of Brazil’s most authentic and biodiverse destinations. TAP Air Portugal has announced a brand-new route connecting Lisbon directly to Curitiba, the capital of Paraná, operating three flights a week on an A330-200 aircraft.
Gondwana Brasil is thrilled to launch a collection of tours focused on responsible, regenerative, and cultural travel right in the heart of the Atlantic Forest Great Reserve.
Like the beautiful cultural melting pot we see in traditional Brazilian celebrations, this region offers a deep dive into the country’s diverse roots and stunning natural beauty. If you are looking to offer your clients an unforgettable, off-the-beaten-path experience, here is why this destination needs to be in your portfolio.
The destination: Where the mountains meet the sea
The Atlantic Forest Great Reserve is the largest remaining continuous stretch of the Atlantic Forest and a proud UNESCO Natural Heritage Site. It is one of the rare places on earth where majestic mountains and the sea coexist in perfect harmony, creating the iconic landscape known as the Lagamar.
Unlike Brazil’s more bustling tourist hubs, the Paraná coast offers a quiet refuge of extraordinary biodiversity. Your clients will stay in cozy, authentic accommodations — including charming 3 and 4-star family-run lodges — perfect for travelers seeking genuine experiences.
But the true magic lies in the cultural immersion. These itineraries invite travelers to explore lush landscapes where traditional communities, like the Caiçaras, Quilombolas, and Indigenous peoples, openly share their wisdom and ways of life in harmony with nature.
The train ride of a lifetime
No trip to this region is complete without a journey on the Serra Verde Express. Awarded in the UK as one of the most scenic tourist train journeys in the world, it offers a breathtaking ride straight through the Atlantic rainforest and across the majestic Serra do Mar mountains. It’s an absolute must-do that consistently leaves travelers in awe!
Gondwana Brasil’s exclusive tour highlights
To help our B2B partners seamlessly integrate this destination, we’ve crafted specialized itineraries perfectly suited for nature lovers, multi-generational families, and curious travelers looking for community-based tourism.
- Classic module: Curitiba & Morretes (4 days / 3 nights): A perfect short escape featuring the legendary Serra do Mar railway, historic charm in Morretes and Antonina, and local culinary traditions like the famous meat stew, barreado.
- Off the beaten path: Secrets of Paraná’s Coast (5 days): Ideal for travelers seeking raw authenticity, this experience features remote trails, untouched beaches, canoe trips with local Caiçara communities, and dolphin watching, all set in nearly pristine landscapes.
- Family escape: Treasures of Paraná’s Coast (6 days): Designed specifically for families, this tour blends education with relaxation. Highlights include the iconic train ride, interactive nature experiences at the Ekôa Park, and serene days on the car-free Ilha do Mel, a true model of sustainable tourism.
For clients wanting a longer Brazilian adventure, we also offer 8 to 12-day extended itineraries that seamlessly connect the Paraná Coast with the majestic Iguaçu Falls and the vibrant city of Rio de Janeiro.
When is the best time to send your clients?
- March to april & september to early december: This is the absolute ideal travel window. Temperatures are a pleasant 20-28°C, nature is vibrant, and because it falls outside of Brazil’s peak holiday season, your clients will enjoy a quieter experience with better availability at charming local lodges.
- May to august (Southern winter): Expect mild days between 12-22°C with less rain and crystal-clear skies. While the ocean might be a bit chilly, it’s the perfect season for hiking, birdwatching, and immersive cultural experiences.
- Late december to february: This is the vibrant Brazilian summer, encompassing major holidays like New Year’s and Carnival. It’s a fantastic option for travelers who love a festive atmosphere, though the region becomes more crowded, rainfall is higher, and accommodation availability can be tight.
Let’s build something meaningful together
With over 110 protected areas and more than 700 local stakeholders, the Atlantic Forest Great Reserve is a living, breathing model of regenerative tourism in Brazil. Our co-founder, Daniela Meres, proudly serves as an ambassador for the initiative, reinforcing our mission to protect biodiversity while uplifting local cultures.
All of our tours are locally owned, sustainably operated, and guided by experienced bilingual professionals fluent in English, Spanish, French, German, and Italian. The new TAP flight goes on sale in July, which means now is the perfect time to start planning.
Contact us at Gondwana Brasil today to add these exclusive, pioneering itineraries to your catalog and offer your clients a side of Brazil they will never forget!
