Brazil
Adventure
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
Burgundy Roots is a Halal-friendly travel and cultural retreat company that specializes in immersive, culturally rich travel experiences designed to connect participants with local history, community, adventure, and heritage.
The Soul of Brazil Tour 2026 is a unique journey blending historical exploration, cultural immersion, adventure, and meaningful experiences. The tour highlights Afro-Brazilian history and the story of Islam in Brazil through engaging lectures and storytelling, led by Mustafa Briggs, a renowned scholar, writer, and educator known for his work on Black history and Islam. Participants will experience iconic landmarks, vibrant culture, community engagement, historical learning, movement and art, and free time to explore Rio at leisure.
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
Day 1 – Arrivals & Introductions:
Arrive in Rio de Janeiro and check in at a hotel near Copacabana Beach. Meet the Burgundy Roots team, enjoy a welcome drink, downtime to relax, and gather for opening remarks and the welcome dinner.
Day 2 – Little Africa Tour:
After breakfast, take a bus downtown to explore Little Africa, learning about Afro-Brazilian history with local guides, enjoy artwork and murals, and take a coffee break. Dinner and an evening class with Mustafa Briggs follow.
Day 3 – Christ the Redeemer:
Visit the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue with various viewpoints across Rio. Return to the hotel with free time in the evening and an 8:00 PM class with Sidi Mustafa.
Day 4 – Beach Day:
Morning session with Mustafa followed by a free day to enjoy the beach, rooftop pool, local food, optional activities (helicopter tour, bike tour, cooking class), and time connecting with fellow participants.
Day 5 – Jumua & Sugarloaf Mountain:
Morning class and prepare for Jumua prayer at a local mosque, spend time with the Muslim community, then (weather permitting) visit Sugarloaf Mountain before sunset.
Day 6 – Escadaria & Sunset Coastal:
Explore Escadaria Selarón (the colorful tile stairway) and enjoy lunch before an optional sunset coastal boat ride (optional $60–$80). Evening class with Mustafa.
Day 7 – Capoeira:
Begin with class with Mustafa then enjoy a Capoeira session, the Afro-Brazilian martial art/dance that blends movement, music, and history.
Burgundy Roots
Day 8 – Free Day:
Free day to relax, shop, walk the city, enjoy a beach day, join a running club, or optionally explore a favela ($30–$40).
Day 9 – Hike & Closing:
Start with a short hike offering a final panoramic view of Rio, return for last-minute shopping, then enjoy an early dinner and closing remarks / final class with Mustafa.
Day 10 – Departure:
Farewells and safe travels!
INCLUDED/NOT INCLUDED
Included
✔ Shared accommodations (2 people per room) — 9 nights/10 days
✔ Daily breakfast
✔ 2 meals included
✔ 6 lectures on Islam in Brazil with Mustafa Briggs
✔ Personal photographer onboard to capture memories
✔ Transportation for the itinerary (excluding airport pick-up/drop-off)
✔ Curated itinerary with knowledgeable guides and hosts
Not Included
❌ International airfare
❌ Travel insurance
❌ Airport shuttle services
❌ Tips — $70 USD suggested (important for staff/hosts/helpers)
❌ Remaining meals (budget roughly $300 USD)