Regional Anchor to Global Power - Sample Itinerary
"Meet with individuals and businesses who will give you insights into Brazil’s role as a continental anchor and emerging global power. From the Amazon to the G20, explore how Brazil balances growth, diplomacy and purpose, and what its 'à la carte' worldview means for business and sustainability."
Day 1: Saturday, May 2Sat May 2Day 1: Bem-vindos a São Paulo
São Paulo
São Paulo is the beating heart of Brazil — and Latin America’s largest economy. With over 20 million inhabitants, it accounts for nearly a third of Brazil’s GDP and is home to major industries: finance, manufacturing, aerospace, tech, and fashion. Often compared to New York City or Shanghai, São Paulo is also Latin America’s innovation capital. Yet beneath the skyscrapers and traffic lies a city of contrasts, where entrepreneurial dynamism meets deep inequality — a reality that has inspired social movements, creative industries, and urban sustainability projects alike. São Paulo is a city of relentless energy, driven by the belief that progress is not a privilege, but a responsibility.
intercity transfersarrive in São Paulo
Own arrangements
own arrangements
transportationtransfer to hotel, check in
bus transfer
free time to unpack and explore
ISPer's recommendation: After your flight, take it easy and give yourself a chance to rest — or, if you’d rather dive straight into the local vibe, head to Avenida Paulista, São Paulo’s most iconic avenue. On a Saturday afternoon it’s buzzing with life: you can pop into the MASP museum for world-class art, browse through quirky bookshops, sip coffee in stylish cafés, or simply stroll along the avenue and soak up the energy of street performers, musicians, and locals out enjoying their weekend. It’s the perfect way to get an instant taste of Brazil’s urban pulse
transportationmeet in hotel lobby, depart for cultural immersion
bus half day
afternoon
cultural eventexploring Brazil’s cultural roots
Discover downtown São Paulo and learn about its history as a cultural melting pot, home to many generations of immigrants from all over the world. Stroll through the vibrant district of Liberdade, the heart of the Japanese community in Brazil. Did you know that São Paulo is home to the largest Japanese community outside Japan? Here, Asian culture blends with Brazilian traditions in food, shops, and everyday life. Visit the impressive São Paulo Cathedral (Catedral da Sé) and explore the city’s historic downtown, where colonial, modernist, and contemporary architecture meet.
bus / walk
transportationmeet in hotel lobby, depart for dinner
bus transfer
evening
mealswelcome dinner with traditional Brazilian flavor
No better way to begin your Brazilian tale than around the fire. In the elegant neighborhood of Jardins, the aroma of slow-roasted picanha, garlic bread, and grilled pineapple fills the air. At this churrascaria—a temple of Brazilian barbecue—passadores in crisp white uniforms carve endless cuts of prime meats tableside while musicians play gentle samba rhythms in the background. The experience captures Brazil’s essence: generous, lively, and communal. Raise a glass of caipirinha to the week ahead.
restaurant
Day 2: Sunday, May 3Sun May 3Day 2: coffee & culture
breakfast
hotel
transportationmeet in hotel lobby, depart for visit (approx. 1 h)
bus full day
morning
cultural eventBrazil’s coffee legacy and innovation
Brazil is the world’s largest coffee producer, supplying over one-third of global consumption and employing millions across its agro-industry. Visit a family-run farm where century-old methods meet modern technology and sustainable agroforestry. See how innovation and traceability keep this heritage crop competitive on world markets and walk through the drying patios, roast your own beans, and most importantly, taste Brazil’s iconic export.
mealsfarm-fresh lunch
afternoon
academic immersionrural entrepreneurship and community development
Rural cooperatives have become pillars of inclusive growth in Brazil’s agribusiness. Meet leaders who use digital platforms and fair-trade certifications to empower smallholders and connect them directly to export buyers. Discuss how shared value models are reshaping traditional industries.
management presentation, case study, discussion
transportationreturn to the hotel
rest of the day at leisure
ISPer's recommendation: Wander around the city center which holds many great shops with the shopping epicentre at the 25 de Março where you can find various knick-knacks and literally everything you may or may not need. If you are looking for fancier shopping, give it a try at Rua Oscar Freire. Don't forget to buy your Havaianas there!
Day 3: Monday, May 4Mon May 4Day 3: the engine room of Latin America
breakfast
hotel
transportationmeet in hotel lobby, depart for visits
bus full day
morning
visitfinance for a multipolar world - investment, innovation and global reachBTG Pactual
Brazil’s financial sector is Latin America’s most sophisticated, serving as a bridge between global capital and regional opportunity. At BTG Pactual—one of the largest investment banks in the Southern Hemisphere—learn how Brazil attracts foreign investment while financing innovation and infrastructure at home. Discuss how the country’s agile financial institutions navigate global volatility to secure Brazil’s growing influence in the G20 economy.
management presentation, discussion
mealslunch: own arrangements
Own arrangements
afternoon
visitengineering resilience - transforming the automotive futureGM Motors
Brazil ranks among the world’s top ten vehicle producers and has become a testing ground for emerging automotive technologies. During your visit to GM’s state-of-the-art facility, explore how the company integrates Brazilian engineering talent and local supply chains to pioneer electric and flexible-fuel mobility. Discuss how industrial transformation in Brazil illustrates the country’s ability to blend manufacturing heritage with future-ready innovation.
presentation, discussion, tour of premises, roundtable discussions
rest of the day at leisure OR
ISPer's recommendation: Make a stop at Ibirapuera Park, a hidden oasis in the bustling city. It's not just a park, but a sanctuary for all to enjoy. With its lush greenery, sparkling lakes, and winding paths for walking and biking, it's the perfect escape from the busy city life.
late afternoon
optional cultural eventspray São Paulo: street art experience
Dive into the colors and uncovered stories of São Paulo’s street art scene! Stroll through iconic graffiti hotspots, discover the roots of Brazilian urban expression, and then pick up a spray can to create your own piece in a hands-on workshop led by local artists.
sts pay individually
Day 4: Tuesday, May 5Tue May 5Day 4: industry and innovation in the megacity
breakfast
hotel
transportationmeet in hotel lobby, depart for visit
bus full day
morning
entrepreneurial labsentrepreneurial ecosystem - building Latin America’s start-up hubACE Ventures
São Paulo hosts more than 13,000 start-ups and accounts for over half of Latin America’s venture-capital activity. At ACE Ventures—one of Brazil’s most influential accelerators—discover how entrepreneurs are transforming sectors from agritech to fintech. Through interactive sessions, learn how Brazil fosters innovation not by copying Silicon Valley but by redefining it through inclusivity, creativity, and social purpose.
management presentation, case study, networking, start-up pitches
Brazil is the world leader in biofuels, deriving nearly 45 % of its energy from renewable sources. At Única, the sugarcane industry’s representative body, discuss how ethanol and bioelectricity underpin Brazil’s energy independence and decarbonization goals. Explore how policy, science, and private investment intersect to position Brazil as a model for sustainable industrial policy in the Global South.
management presentation, case study, discussion
rest of the day at leisure OR
ISPer's recommendation: Enjoy the sunset from the top of the Banespa Building, one of Sao Paulo's tallest buildings, offering a stunning panoramic view of the city.
evening
optional cultural eventa foodie tour of São Paulo
Discover the vibrant culinary scene of São Paulo on this immersive foodie tour. Journey through bustling markets, savoring fresh produce and local delicacies that highlight the city's diverse flavors. Taste iconic street food and visit select eateries that showcase the rich blend of cultural influences in Brazilian cuisine. Whether it's a savory bite or a sweet treat, this tour offers a delicious glimpse into São Paulo's dynamic food culture.
sts pay individually
Day 5: Wednesday, May 6Wed May 6Day 5: Brazil’s creative and social capital
breakfast
hotel
transportationcheck out, load luggage onto the bus, depart for visit
bus half day
morning
visitbeauty & biodiversity - innovating with purposeNatura Cosmetics
Brazil is Latin America’s largest cosmetics market and a top-five global player, exporting over $600 million in beauty and hygiene products annually. At Natura’s eco-campus, learn how the company leverages Amazon biodiversity and inclusive supply chains to align growth with environmental and social impact.
management presentation, discussion, tour of facilities
mealsgroup lunch at Natura campus
restaurant
transportationdepart to airport
intercity transferstransfer to Rio de Janeiro (approx. 1 hr)
air
Rio de Janeiro
Rio de Janeiro is more than a postcard of beauty; it’s Brazil’s former capital and diplomatic heart. It embodies the nation’s identity — joyful, creative, yet deeply political. Home to the iconic Sugarloaf Mountain, Christ the Redeemer, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Itamaraty), Rio bridges Brazil’s global image and its urban realities. The city pulses with cultural energy, scientific research, and social activism.
transportationarrive in Rio de Janeiro, transfer to the visit
bus half day
afternoon
volunteering experiencesocial innovation and impact in gastronomy
Explore how social enterprises can address urgent community needs while creating sustainable impact. Take part in preparing and serving meals for local communities, gaining insight into how innovative business models in the food sector tackle challenges such as food insecurity, inequality, and waste reduction. The activity highlights the intersection of entrepreneurship and social responsibility, showing how purposeful business can transform lives.
management presentation, discussion, volunteering
transportationtransfer to hotel, check in
rest of the day at leisure
ISPer's recommendation: When in Rio, life moves to the rhythm of the ocean. After check-in, head to Ipanema Beach, where Cariocas gather for a late-afternoon pôr do sol — sunset. Walk along the mosaic promenade to Arpoador Rock, the natural viewpoint between Ipanema and Copacabana, and join locals applauding the setting sun as it melts into the Atlantic. It’s a simple ritual, but one that captures Rio’s easy balance between nature, beauty, and community.
Day 6: Thursday, May 7Thu May 7Day 6: innovation, education and business in sports
breakfast
hotel
transportationmeet in hotel lobby, depart for visit
Football in Brazil is both industry and identity. At Flamengo — one of the world’s most valuable clubs — explore how strategic financial management, data analytics, and global marketing turned a local team into a billion-real brand. Discover how Flamengo engages its vast fan base, builds sponsorship value, and develops talent pipelines that balance profitability with community pride.
management presentation, discussion, tour of museum
mealslunch: own arrangements
Own arrangements
afternoon
visitcorporate digital education, AI and fully remote leadershipRevvo
Meet with one of Brazil's biggest edtechs and learn more about the corporate digital education. Its CEO, Mr. Richard Uchoa, an alumni of the University of Oxford, will present you his perspective on importance of the speed of change in business demands continuous acquisition of new skills to maximize personal and organizational performance. Learn more about their customized courses and how they do the sales training for the world known companies as Hyundai. Another big topic will be the remote work and how to make it work as Revvo has over 200 employees working remotely.
management presentation, case study, discussion
late afternoon
cultural eventsamba & caipirinha experience
Embrace Rio’s spirit through its two most joyful traditions — dance and drink. Led by local instructors in a traditional samba studio, you’ll start by learning the basic samba steps, feeling the rhythm that unites Brazil’s people and culture. After the dance, mix your own caipirinha — Brazil’s national cocktail — with fresh lime, sugar, and cachaça, guided by expert bartenders who share the drink’s history and secrets. As the music continues and glasses clink, you’ll experience firsthand how Brazilians blend movement, flavor, and community into pure celebration.
rest of the day at leisure
ISPer's recommendation: This is your opportunity to continue getting familiar with the layout of the city! If you haven't yet, be sure to explore the Saude neighborhood, which Time Out Magazine once called one of the coolest neighborhoods in the world.
Day 7: Friday, May 8Fri May 8Day 7: a view from the top
breakfast
hotel
transportationmeet in hotel lobby, depart for visit
bus full day
morning
visitunderstanding the significance of the oil business in Brazil
As Latin America’s largest oil and gas producer and the world’s eighth overall, Brazil plays a decisive role in global energy security. Visit Ocyan to learn how advanced offshore technologies, natural-gas integration, and sustainability frameworks drive competitiveness in this strategic industry. Examine how the sector balances domestic growth, foreign investment, and the transition to a lower-carbon future.
presentation, discussion, tour of facilities
mealslunch: own arrangements
Own arrangements
afternoon
cultural eventsunset at Sugarloaf mountain
Enjoy a ride up to the Sugarloaf Mountain with a chairlift! One of Brazil’s most iconic landmarks and a symbol of Rio de Janeiro’s beautiful natural surroundings, situated on the edge of the Guanabara Bay, Sugarloaf Mountain is a must-see attraction. Upon reaching the top of Sugar Loaf at 1,299 feet (396 meters) above sea level, admire the views of the shores, Copacabana beach, Guanabara Bay, Atlantic ocean and the downtown of Rio de Janeiro. There are various options for buying snacks and souvenirs.
cable car
transportationmeet in hotel lobby, depart for dinner
bus transfer
evening
mealsfarewell dinner at a legendary samba house
End your Brazilian journey in style at Rio Scenarium, the city’s legendary samba house set within a century-old warehouse filled with antiques and carnival décor. Enjoy live bands, traditional dishes, and dancing that capture Rio’s soul — an unforgettable night that embodies the rhythm, resilience, and joy of Brazil.
Day 8: Saturday, May 9Sat May 9Day 8: Até logo!
breakfast
hotel
early morning
optional cultural eventsunrise at Dois Irmãos
For those who rise before the city does, Rio offers a reward like no other. Begin before dawn with a short hike up Morro Dois Irmãos, the twin peaks that overlook Ipanema and Leblon. As the first light spreads across the Atlantic, watch Rio awaken below — beaches, favelas, and forest all glowing in the golden sunrise. It’s a moment that captures the city’s contrasts and beauty: raw nature at the edge of urban life, silence before the samba.
bus transfer, hike
morning
optional cultural eventhalf-day jeep trip to Tijuca forest
Set out early to explore Tijuca National Park, the world’s largest urban rainforest and a symbol of Rio’s deep connection between city and nature. Travel by open-air jeep through lush vegetation, past waterfalls and viewpoints that reveal the city from unexpected angles. As morning light filters through the canopy, listen to the sounds of toucans and marmosets awakening — a reminder that those who rise early in Rio are rewarded with its purest beauty. This half-day adventure celebrates the harmony between Brazil’s wild landscapes and its vibrant urban life.
jeep, hike
transportationhotel check-out, depart for the airport