Blumenau Heritage (7.5 hours)

German heritage has played a significant role in Southern and Southeastern Brazil's history since the 1850s. Venture inland to the enchanting town of Blumenau for an up-close look into the unique ambiance and significance of German culture common throughout the region.

Following a pier departure from a local pier, set off through fertile, lush farmland on a 90 minutes drive to Blumenau by air-conditioned motor coach.

Arriving at the outskirts of Blumenau, visit the Colonial Family Museum for insight of the city's first early settlers. Pay tribute to Blumenau's founder, Dr. Otto Blumenau, whose task it was to prepare the settling of the German immigrants along the banks of the Itajaí-Açu River, and admire the museums traditional alpine design.

Although early Blumenau was initially intended to develop as a farming community, the arrival of craftsmen introduced textiles, metallurgy and crystal manufacturing into the economy. Today, Brazil is known for its quartz-rich crystal that is produced from the sand of Minas Gerais State, that become delicate works of art at the crystal factory of Blumenau. Next, your drive will proceed to the Bavarian Biergarten Pavilion, site of Blumenau's annual Oktoberfest. There will be no festivity going on once it happens in October, but it's a must see as this Oktoberfest is the second largest outside of Germany.

Following your visit, the Lunch will be served at Plaza Hering hotel.

After lunch, you will have free time in Blumenau downtown that would give to you an opportunity to really experience the town and take better pictures than only driving by.

Following the free time, you make your return drive to the pier in Portobelo and the ship.