HOOS in Rio de Janeiro: Football, Flavor & Rhythm
Introduction
Travel to Rio de Janeiro for a landmark moment in college football history to witness the first NCAA football game ever played in South America.
Join fellow UVA alumni and fans for an extraordinary international season opener set against one of the world’s most breathtaking cities. From luxury beachfront accommodations on Copacabana to private cultural experiences, gourmet Brazilian cuisine, and exclusive game-day celebrations, every detail of this journey has been thoughtfully designed.
Between iconic landmarks, vibrant music, and unforgettable culinary experiences, Rio becomes the perfect backdrop for an epic kickoff to the season. This is a front-row seat to history, wrapped in the rhythm, color, and flavor of Brazil.
Valid Passport and Visa required for travel to Rio de Janeiro
Key Requirements:
Validity: Strongly recommended to have 6 months remaining, though some official guidance suggests validity just upon entry.
Blank Pages: You must have at least one or two blank visa pages in your passport.
Visa/E-Visa: As of April 10, 2025, U.S., Canadian, Australian, and Japanese citizens require a visa (or e-visa) to enter Brazil. Application : https://brazil.vfsevisa.com/homepage
QUICK GLANCE: WHAT’S INCLUDED
✔️Roundtrip airport transfers
✔️Accommodations for 6 nights at luxury beachfront hotel on Copacabana Beach including tax
✔️Welcome Reception
✔️Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner daily (6b,6l,6d)
✔️Daily Lunch (6 lunches)
✔️Daily Dinner (6 dinners)
✔️Admissions to all activities listed on itinerary
✔️English-speaking Local Guide
✔️VIP Tailgate and Premium Game Day tickets
✔️La Belle Route Representative to ensure seamless experience
✔️All transportation while in Rio to and from each activity
QUICK GLANCE: COSTS
Prices are based on hotel occupancy and include a non-refundable $500 deposit required to secure your spot (i.e. the deposit is subtracted from the total cost of the trip).
Double Occupancy: $5495
Single Occupancy: $6998
QUICK GLANCE: WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED
✔️Roundtrip air/baggage fees (email us at info@travelbelleroute.com if you'd like a quote for air from your departure city. Please note if you prefer coach or business class)
✔️Souvenir money
✔️Meals en route
✔️Trip Insurance (optional additional coverage available when you Book Now)
Deposit: $500 due upon registration
Final Payment: May 15, 2026
Upon arrival in Rio de Janeiro, private transfers will escort you to your luxury beachfront hotel overlooking the iconic sands of Copacabana. Settle into your elegant accommodations and take in your first glimpse of Rio’s stunning coastline.
Begin your journey with a festive welcome reception featuring Brazil’s signature cocktail — the refreshing caipirinha. Meet fellow UVA travelers while enjoying ocean breezes and the lively atmosphere of Rio.
Ease into Brazilian life with time to relax along Copacabana’s world-famous beach. Walk the mosaic promenade, dip your toes in the Atlantic, or simply unwind after your travels.
Your first evening concludes with a private dinner at an upscale Rio restaurant, where a Brazilian wine pairing highlights the rich culinary traditions of the region. It’s the perfect start to an unforgettable week.
Enjoy breakfast featuring tropical fruits, fresh pastries, and Brazilian coffee.
We will travel by historic train through Tijuca National Park to reach one of the world’s most recognizable landmarks — Christ the Redeemer. From the summit of Corcovado Mountain, enjoy sweeping panoramic views of Rio’s beaches, mountains, and harbor.
Next, glide above Guanabara Bay via the famous Sugarloaf cable cars, rising high above the coastline for breathtaking views of Rio’s dramatic landscape.
Continue with a guided architectural and cultural tour that introduces the history, neighborhoods, and vibrant spirit of Brazil’s most iconic city.
This afternoon, step into the kitchen with a local chef for a private culinary workshop. Learn the secrets behind beloved Brazilian dishes and flavors before enjoying the delicious results.
Spend the late afternoon enjoying Rio at your own pace — perhaps lounging on the beach, visiting the spa, or exploring nearby cafés and boutiques.
Tonight, enjoy the freedom to explore Rio’s vibrant dining scene. The La Belle Route team will provide a curated list of exceptional restaurants — from beloved local gems to award-winning culinary destinations. A dining credit is included so you can select the experience that best suits your tastes.
Start your morning with breakfast at the hotel before beginning the day's adventures.
Step inside the dazzling world of Rio’s legendary Carnival with an exclusive behind-the-scenes experience. View elaborate costumes, learn how floats and performances are created, and experience the artistry behind the world’s most famous celebration.
Visit the private atelier of a renowned Brazilian artist to gain insight into Rio’s contemporary creative scene and the cultural inspirations behind their work.
Tonight, immerse yourself in the heartbeat of Brazil with a VIP samba performance and dinner. Experience the rhythm, energy, and passion that make samba one of the country’s most beloved traditions.
Enjoy a relaxed morning starting with breakfast at your leisure at the hotel with time to soak in the Rio lifestyle whether relaxing poolside, strolling the beach, or exploring nearby cafes.
Midday, board a private yacht for a stunning cruise along Rio’s spectacular coastline. With an open bar, dinner onboard, and views of Rio’s iconic mountains and beaches, this experience offers a completely different perspective of the city.
As the sun sets over the Atlantic, the golden light reflecting off Rio’s peaks creates a truly unforgettable moment.
Return to your hotel as excitement builds for tomorrow’s historic game.
Enjoy a relaxed morning and breakfast at the hotel as you prepare for the big event. Snooze on the beach, take a swim, or soak in the atmosphere of Rio.
Private transfers will take you to Nilton Santos Stadium for this historic international matchup.
Before kickoff, enjoy a festive VIP tailgate celebration with fellow UVA fans complete with food, drinks, and game-day spirit.
Take your seats as UVA faces NC State in the first NCAA football game ever played in South America - a once-in-a-lifetime moment for college football and Cavalier fans alike.
After the game, celebrate the unforgettable evening with a special dinner alongside fellow travelers and alumni.
Enjoy Breakfast at your leisure before you embark on your last full day in Rio.
Begin the day with a guided beachfront yoga session overlooking the Atlantic — a peaceful way to start your final full day in Rio.
Participate in a private introductory session to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, one of Brazil’s most respected martial arts traditions.
Discover the stylish neighborhood of Ipanema during a private shopping experience featuring Brazilian designers and local artisans.
Visit one of the most legendary football stadiums in the world. A behind-the-scenes tour of Maracanã Stadium reveals the history and passion of Brazilian football.
Explore the stunning São Bento Monastery, one of Rio’s most significant historic and architectural landmarks.
our final evening in Rio concludes with an exclusive farewell dinner prepared by a Brazilian chef - a memorable celebration of the friendships, experiences, and history made throughout the journey.
Enjoy one final breakfast overlooking the sparkling Atlantic as Rio awakens for the day. It's the perfect moment to reflect on new friendships, incredible experiences, and the historic memories made together in Rio!
Private transfers will escort you to the airport for your departure flight home, taking with you unforgettable memories of Rio, Cavalier camaraderie, and a historic moment in college football.