Organized Tours in Brasilia

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.