Shrine Of Our Lady Of Aparecida In Honor To The Blessed Virgin Mary – Day Trip

The Shrine of Our Lady of Aparecida stands as a stunning testament to Brazil’s deep devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary. As the largest Catholic church in the world, it’s a must-visit destination for those seeking a spiritually enriching experience. From the awe-inspiring Neo-Baroque architecture to the breathtaking views from the Footbridge of Faith, this remarkable site offers a glimpse into the country’s rich religious heritage. Prepare to be captivated by the shrine’s allure and discover why it’s a popular day trip for both pilgrims and travelers alike.

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Key Points

Explore the iconic Basilica of Our Lady of Aparecida, the largest Catholic church in the world, and witness the revered statue of Brazil’s patron saint.
Admire the stunning Baroque and Neoclassical architectural elements, including the gilded altars and towering steeples, that contribute to the awe-inspiring atmosphere.
Traverse the Footbridge of Faith for breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and observe religious ceremonies at the historic old basilica.
Set out on a scenic cable car ride to the Hill of the Santo Cruzeiro for panoramic vistas and a glimpse of the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue.
Enjoy a personalized and private day trip experience from Sao Paulo, with all entrance fees and transportation included, with the flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours before.

The Basilica of the National Shrine of Our Lady of Aparecida

Though it stands as the largest Catholic church in the world, the Basilica of the National Shrine of Our Lady of Aparecida is a remarkable and serene place of pilgrimage.

The basilica’s architecture, featuring Baroque and Neoclassical elements, creates an awe-inspiring atmosphere.

Pilgrims flock to venerate the famous statue of the Virgin Mary, known as Our Lady of Aparecida, Brazil’s patron saint.

The basilica’s massive scale, ornate design, and spiritual significance make it a must-visit destination for those exploring the religious and cultural richness of Brazil.

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The Largest Cathedral in the World

The Basilica of the National Shrine of Our Lady of Aparecida is the largest Catholic church in the world, with a commanding presence that leaves visitors in awe.

Spanning over 195,000 square meters, the basilica can accommodate over 45,000 worshippers at a time. Its grandiose neo-Baroque architecture, featuring gilded altars and towering steeples, is a testament to the devotion of Brazilian Catholics.

Within its walls, the revered image of the Blessed Virgin Mary draws millions of pilgrims annually, making it a spiritual epicenter and one of Brazil’s most significant religious sites.

Exploring the Footbridge of Faith and Old Basilica

Beyond the grandiose main basilica, the Shrine of Our Lady of Aparecida offers visitors a chance to explore the sacred footbridge and the original church structure.

The Footbridge of Faith allows worshippers to cross over the river and reach the old basilica, which houses a revered statue of the Virgin Mary.

Visitors can:

Walk the footbridge for stunning views of the surrounding landscape
Visit the historic old basilica and admire its intricate architecture
Witness religious ceremonies and observe the faithful in prayer
Explore the Hill of the Santo Cruzeiro, accessible by cable car (ticket not included)

Riding the Cable Car to the Hill of the Santo Cruzeiro

After exploring the Footbridge of Faith and the historic old basilica, visitors have the opportunity to ride the cable car up to the Hill of the Santo Cruzeiro. The cable car ride offers stunning panoramic views of the basilica and the surrounding landscape. At the top, visitors can admire the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue and take in the peaceful atmosphere.

| Experience | Description | Duration |

| — | — | — |

| Cable Car Ride | Scenic aerial ride up the hill | 5-10 minutes |

| Statue Viewing | Admire the Christ the Redeemer statue | 15-20 minutes |

| Scenic Overlook | Take in the breathtaking vistas | 10-15 minutes |

Exploring the Hill of the Santo Cruzeiro is a highlight of the Shrine of Our Lady of Aparecida day trip.

Personalized and Private Tour Experience

Visitors can expect a personalized and private tour experience when exploring the Shrine of Our Lady of Aparecida.

The tour includes:

Entrance fees to all the sites, ensuring a seamless experience.
Private transportation from within Sao Paulo, with a driver for larger groups and a guide for smaller parties.
A customizable itinerary that allows guests to explore the Basilica, Footbridge of Faith, Old Basilica, and the Hill of the Santo Cruzeiro (cable car ticket not included).
Flexibility in pickup locations, with staff assisting at the airport arrivals and arranging hotel pickups.

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Convenient Transportation and Pickup Options

The tour provides convenient transportation and pickup options to ensure a seamless experience. Customers can choose to be picked up from their accommodation within Sao Paulo city limits. An airport arrival service is also available, with a staff member holding a sign to assist guests. For smaller groups, the driver will provide transportation, while larger groups will have a private driver. The tour includes pickup and drop-off, with no additional charges for transportation. This hassle-free arrangement allows guests to focus on the spiritual journey ahead.

| Pickup Options | Locations |

| — | — |

| Accommodation | Within Sao Paulo city limits |

| Airport Arrival | Staff member with sign |

| Group Size | Private driver for groups over 4 |

Booking and Pricing Information

Although booking the tour is flexible, customers have the option to reserve now and pay later. The tour is priced at $308.00 per person, though the exact cost may vary depending on group size.

Booking the tour is flexible, with the option to reserve now and pay later. The per-person price is $308.00 but may vary based on group size.

This tour includes:

Entrance fees
Pickup/drop-off within Sao Paulo
Private transportation and driver/guide
Lowest price guarantee

Customers can cancel their booking for free up to 24 hours before the experience. Infants must sit on laps, and the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Visit the Shrine on My Own Without a Tour?

Yes, visitors can explore the Basilica of the National Shrine of Our Lady of Aparecida on their own without a tour. The shrine is open to the public and accessible for independent visits.

Are There Any Dress Code Requirements for the Basilica?

There’s no strict dress code for the Basilica of Aparecida, but visitors are expected to dress modestly. Shorts, tank tops, and flip-flops are generally discouraged, as the basilica is a sacred religious site.

Is Photography Allowed Inside the Basilica?

Photography is generally allowed inside the Basilica of the National Shrine of Our Lady of Aparecida. However, visitors should be respectful and avoid disrupting religious services or disturbing other worshippers.

How Long Does the Tour Typically Last?

The private tour of the Basilica of the National Shrine of Our Lady of Aparecida typically lasts around 2-3 hours, allowing visitors to explore the vast interior and additional sites like the Footbridge of Faith and Old Basilica.

Can I Purchase Souvenirs at the Site?

Yes, visitors can purchase souvenirs at the Basilica of the National Shrine of Our Lady of Aparecida. The site has a variety of religious items, artwork, and gifts available for purchase in its onsite shops.

The Sum Up

The Shrine of Our Lady of Aparecida is a must-visit destination for those seeking a spiritual and cultural experience in Brazil. With its grand Neo-Baroque architecture, historic old basilica, and breathtaking views, the shrine offers visitors a chance to enjoy the country’s rich religious heritage. Whether you’re a devout Catholic or simply interested in exploring Brazil’s cultural landmarks, a visit to the Shrine of Our Lady of Aparecida is sure to leave a lasting impression.