Boat Tours -- Tours take place on the lake, Lago Paranoá. Leaving from ASBAC (yacht club in the Asa Sul, close to Setor de Embaixadas Sul), the 2-hour tour passes the Palácio da Alvorada, the official residence of the Brazilian president (not open to the public) and continues around the lake. It's a great way to see the city from the water. Contact Tôa Tôa (tel. 061/9982-1161). Departures are on Saturday and Sunday at 10am and 2pm and the cost is R$25 per person.

Specialty Tours -- To make the most of your visit to Brasilia it pays to hire a tour guide. Not only will it save you all the time and hassle of getting around but you will also gain a greater appreciation of the city's architecture and structure. Roberto Torres (tel. 061/9963-4732; carneirotorres@msn.com) is an experienced licensed tour guide with architectural knowledge who speaks excellent English. Book in advance. You can also contact Prestheza Turismo, Patio Brasil Shopping, Sala 917 (tel. 061/3226-6224; www.prestheza.com.br). In addition to city tours, the company also offers a variety of other tours, such as a visit to the Vale do Amanhecer (Valley of the Dawn) spiritual community or to one of the national or regional parks in the area. Half-day tours start at R$80 per person.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.