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18 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Brazil

Written by Michael Law , Lana Law , and Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Mar 29, 2024 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

The largest country in South America, Brazil occupies almost half the continent. Nearly all of it is in the Southern Hemisphere, and much of it is tropical, with vast stretches of rainforest filled with exotic plants and wildlife.

Brazil's 7,400-kilometer Atlantic coast is lined with golden-sand beaches , and its interior is filled with mineral resources. Gold from Brazil's mines still lines the churches of Portugal, the colonial power that ruled Brazil until 1822. This strong Portuguese influence is evident in Brazil's colonial architecture , in decorative arts such as the glazed tiles in its churches and convents, and in the language.

For tourists, Brazil is both a tropical paradise and an exciting cultural destination with attractions for all tastes, from idyllic beach holidays and jungle explorations to world-class art museums and the pulsing rhythms of Rio's Carnival.

To discover the best places to visit and things to do, use this handy list of the top tourist attractions in Brazil.

1. Cristo Redentor and Corcovado, Rio de Janeiro

2. sugar loaf, rio de janeiro, 3. iguaçu falls, 4. copacabana, rio de janeiro, 5. amazon rainforests, 6. carnaval, rio de janeiro, 7. brasília's modernist architecture, 8. jericoacoara, 10. salvador's pelourinho, 11. ouro preto, 12. museu do amanhã (museum of tomorrow), 13. ibirapuera park, são paulo, 14. museu oscar niemeyer, curitiba, 15. botanical garden of curitiba, 16. porto de galinhas & pernambuco beaches, 17. art museums of sao paulo, 18. belo horizonte.

With arms outstretched 28 meters, as if to encompass all of humanity, the colossal Art Deco statue of Christ, called Cristo Redentor (Christ the Redeemer), gazes out over Rio de Janeiro, Sugar Loaf, and the bay from the summit of Corcovado. From here, you have possibly the best view in the city .

The 709-meter height on which it stands is part of the Tijuca National Park, and a railway climbs 3.5 kilometers to the top , where a broad plaza surrounds the statue. Completed in 1931, the 30-meter statue was the work of Polish-French sculptor Paul Landowski and Brazilian engineer Heitor da Silva Costa, and is constructed of reinforced concrete and soapstone.

The steep ride up to the statue on the railway is part of the attraction as it passes through a lush forest, home to a wide variety of tropical birds, butterflies, and plants.

• Read More: Top Attractions & Things to Do in Rio de Janeiro

The easily recognized emblem of Rio de Janeiro, the rounded rock peak of Sugar Loaf juts out of a tree-covered promontory, rising 394 meters above the beaches and city. From the summit are outstanding views of Rio and the harbor , as well as a stunning view of Christ the Redeemer. This is an absolute must-do when visiting the city but plan to do this on a clear day and preferably in the morning.

Part of the attraction is the thrill of riding the cable car between Sugar Loaf and the Morro da Urca , a lower peak from which a second cableway connects to the city.

Rio's first settlement began below these peaks, near the long Praia da Urca beach, and you can tour one of the three early forts there, the star-shaped Fort São João .

Iguaçu Falls is one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the world. At the point where Brazil, Paraguay, and Argentina meet, the Iguaçu river drops spectacularly in a semicircle of 247 waterfalls that thunder down into the gorge below. Just above the falls, the river is constricted to one-fourth of its usual width, making the force of the water even stronger.

Some of the falls are more than 100 meters high and they cover such a broad area that you'll never see all of them at once, but you do get the broadest panorama from the Brazilian side. Catwalks and a tower give you different perspectives, and one bridge reaches all the way to one of the largest falls, known as the Garganta do Diabo (Devil's Throat).

You can cross to the Argentinian side for closer views from catwalks that extend farther into the center of the falls. The two sides offer different perspectives and views, so most tourists plan to see both.

The falls are protected by the UNESCO-acclaimed Iguaçu National Park , where subtropical rainforests are home to more than 1,000 species of birds and mammals, including deer, otters, ocelots, and capybaras.

In early November 2023, water flows that were ten times normal levels caused significant damage to many of the walkways in and around the falls. The most famous, the Devil's Throat, has reopened but the Garganta del Diablo will be closed for quite some time with no reopening date announced as of writing.

It's hard to think of Rio without conjuring up an image of Copacabana. This is Rio's playground, a popular escape from the heat filled with sun-worshipers, swimmers, and kids building sand castles. A seemingly endless assortment of beach shacks offer chair and umbrella rentals, snacks, drinks, and even free showers.

Downtown Rio's most famous section follows Avenida Nossa Senhora de Copacabana and is bordered all along one side by four kilometers of white sand and breaking surf .

The beach is separated from the buildings and traffic by a broad promenade paved in black and white mosaic in an undulating pattern reminiscent of streets in Lisbon, Portugal. Along this promenade, the famed Copacabana Palace is protected as a national monument. Inside this hotel's lobby, you can easily imagine seeing the royalty and film idols who have stayed here.

About 20 kilometers southeast of Manaus, the dark Rio Negro waters meet the light muddy water of the Rio Solimões, flowing side by side for about six kilometers before mixing as the Amazon. Boat trips from Manaus take you to this point, called Encontro das Aguas , meeting of the waters.

Other boat trips take you into the heart of the rainforests and the network of rivers, channels, and lakes formed by the three rivers. In the Rio Negro, the Anavilhanas Islands form an archipelago with lakes, streams, and flooded forests that offer a full cross-section of the Amazonian ecosystem.

You can see monkeys, sloths, parrots, toucans, caimans, turtles, and other wildlife on a boat trip here. Also close to Manaus, the 688-hectare Janauari Ecological Park has a number of different ecosystems that you can explore by boat along its narrow waterways.

An entire lake here is covered with giant water-lilies found only in the Amazon region. While in Manaus, be sure to see its famous Teatro Amazonas , the Italian Renaissance-style opera house, designed to put Manaus on the map as South America's great center of culture.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Manaus

Few shows match Rio's pre-Lenten Carnaval (Carnival) extravaganza for color, sound, action, and exuberance. Make no mistake, this is not just another rowdy street party, but a carefully staged showpiece, where spectators can watch the parades of competing samba dancers from a purpose-built stadium designed by none other than Brazil's best-known architect, Oscar Niemeyer.

Called the Sambódromo , this long series of grandstand boxes provides ringside seats to a 700-meter parade route where dancers and musicians from the competing samba schools strut their stuff in a dazzling explosion of brilliant costumes.

If mob scenes are less appealing to you than more spontaneous celebrations (that are equally riotous and colorful), you'll also find Carnivals in Salvador , Bahia, Recife, and other Brazilian cities.

Brazil's new city of Brasília was carved out of the wilderness and completed in less than three years to replace Rio de Janeiro as the country's capital in 1960. The ambitious plan by Lúcio Costa and Oscar Niemeyer became a showpiece of city planning and avant-garde architecture, and it remains today as one of the world's few cities that represent a completed plan and a single architectural concept.

Without the normal mix of residential and business districts, the entire governmental section is composed of major architectural highlights, which are the city's main tourist attractions . Some of the most striking surround Praça dos Tràs Poderes : the presidential palace, supreme court, and the two sharply contrasting congress buildings, plus the Historical Museum of Brasília and the Panteão da Liberdade (Pantheon of Freedom), designed by Oscar Niemeyer.

That architect's best-known building in the city is the circular Catedral Metropolitana Nossa Senhora Aparecida , whose curved concrete columns rise to support a glass roof. Another of Niemeyer's landmark works is the Palácio dos Arcos , surrounded by beautiful gardens designed by Brazilian landscape architect Roberto Burle Marx, who worked with Niemeyer on several projects throughout Brazil.

The round Memorial dos Povos Indígenas (Museum of Indigenous People) is patterned after a traditional Yąnomamö round house. But many consider Niemeyer's finest work to be the Monumento JK , a memorial to President Juscelino Kubitschek, the founder of Brasilia. Brasilia has been named a UNESCO World Heritage city.

If you've ever dreamed of a beachside village where all the streets are sand and like with good restaurants, decent hotels, and the odd donkey wandering around, Jericoacoara is the place for you. Jeri, as it's commonly referred to is, located within the confines of the spectacular Jericoacoara National Park , access is only through a huge expanse of massive sand dunes in a 4WD vehicle or, for the more adventurous, on the back of a beach buggy.

Each night the town comes alive when the mobile vendors set up shop on the sand and the band starts to play. Grab a bite from one of the small BBQ stands and catch the sunset as it sinks into the expanse of the Atlantic Ocean, or even better secure a rooftop patio seat. Later on wander the sandy, pedestrian-only streets and enjoy a dinner with your toes in the sand. After dinner, check out one of the many boutiques featuring a variety of beach and resort clothing.

Windswept beaches run for hundreds of miles north and south of Jeri and this draws wind sport enthusiasts from around the world. Jeri is considered by many to be the best place in the world to go kiteboarding and as a result, draws a diverse set of participants from across the globe.

To experience the dunes or explore freshwater lagoons, where you can set up beachside at a restaurant and go for a swim, hire a buggy for the day , and go on an excursion. You can also head down towards Guiru or further along to Tatajuba to see or enjoy more kiteboarding. It's a fun trip that involves a river crossing on a small, flat barge.

You can fly directly to Jericoacoara . As an alternative, you can fly into Fortaleza and hire a car and driver to run you up the coast, which is about a five-hour drive . The best option is to stop off for a night or two along the way in some of the other beach towns like Cumbuco or Guajiru , both of which are popular kiteboarding areas.

Beyond the beaches of Copacabana, the glorious white sands merge into the just-as-famous beaches of Ipanema. The same wave design of Copacabana's wide promenade continues here, separating the sand from the line of hotels, restaurants, cafés, art galleries, and cinemas that make this a popular social zone year-round.

Farther along, beyond the Jardim de Alá Canal, which drains Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas lagoon, are the beaches of Leblon . With more locals and fewer tourists, these beaches are favorites for families. Sunday is especially busy, with an antiques market at Praça de Quentaland and the Feira de Artesanato de Ipanema , alive with music, art, handicrafts, and street food.

The waves at Ipanema and Leblon can be very strong and unpredictable, so be careful where you swim. Follow the locals and stay out of the water where you don't see others swimming. If surf is what you're looking for, head to the stretch between Copacabana and Ipanema, where the surfers hang out.

The Cidade Alta (Upper Town) of Brazil's former colonial capital has been named a UNESCO World Heritage site for its exceptional collection of 17th- and 18th-century colonial buildings, the finest such ensemble in South America.

Called the Pelourinho, this old quarter is where you'll find Salvador's most beautiful churches and monasteries, built at a time when Brazil was the source of Portugal's riches, and the plentiful gold was lavished on the colony's religious buildings.

The finest and most opulent of the city's churches is São Francisco , built in the early 1700s and filled with intricate carvings covered in gold. In the choir and cloister, you can see excellent examples of Portuguese tile panels, called azulejos.

This was the friary church, and next to it is the church of the Franciscan Third Order. It's impossible to miss the riotously carved façade covered in statues and intricate decoration. The interior is just as ornate, surpassing even the Portuguese Baroque in its opulent detail.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Salvador

The wealth of Brazil's state of Minas Gerais in its glory days of the colonial period is easy to imagine from the interiors of the churches in its old capital, Ouro Preto. Entire walls are washed in gold that flowed – along with diamonds – from the mines surrounding the city in the 17th and 18th centuries.

Cascading down the sides of a steep valley and surrounded by mountains, Ouro Preto is a jewel of a colonial town, but its steep narrow streets and mountain setting – however captivating for tourists today – didn't meet the needs of a growing provincial capital. The government moved to the newly built capital of Belo Horizonte, leaving Ouro Preto in its time capsule.

The 17th-century Baroque and Rococo churches of São Francisco de Assis and Matriz de Nossa Senhora do Pilar are the best examples, but the entire town is so rich in colonial architecture that Ouro Preto has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The steep streets, so precipitous in places that they become stairways, are lined by gracious colonial mansions, and white churches crown its hills with Baroque bell towers.

The futuristic architecture of the Museum of Tomorrow in Rio de Janeiro gives a clue about its contents. Thought-provoking exhibits invite visitors to think about what the world might be like in the future, exploring scenarios of how our planet may change in the next half-century.

Examining these times of fast-moving changes in society, technology, and the physical world, the museum prompts viewers to consider various paths into the future, and how each opens up based on the choices made every day as individuals and as a society.

This eye-catching science museum overlooking the waterfront was designed by Spanish architect and artist, Santiago Calatrava.

Address: Praça Mauá 1, Centro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

The most visited park in South America, Ibirapuera Park is a vast green space designed by Brazilian landscape architect Roberto Burle Marx, with buildings designed by Oscar Niemeyer. The park is a showcase for modern architecture and a center for Brazilian culture.

Amid its monuments, gardens, playgrounds, trails, and lakes are museums and performance spaces that include Oscar Niemeyer's Auditório Ibirapuera , one of São Paulo's best concert venues. A Japanese Pavilion with sculptures, clothing, and traditional crafts is set in rock gardens with a fishpond.

The Museu da Aeronáutica e do Folclore , the Aeronautics and Folk Art Museum , features thousands of examples of folk arts and exhibits on traditional cultures from across Brazil. The lower floor is devoted to aeronautical equipment and model airplanes. A separate museum, the large Museu Afro-Brasil , features the culture and history of Afro-Brazilians and their contributions.

Address: Avenida Pedro Alvares Cabral, São Paulo

Paving the way for the unconventional building shapes created by later futurist architects such as Frank Gehry and Santiago Calatrava, Oscar Niemeyer left his native Brazil with a treasury of his most iconic buildings. One of these was built as the New Museum, completed in 2002 when Niemeyer was 95 years old, and renamed in tribute to him in 2003.

Balanced on a massive 60-foot pillar, the gallery is formed by a pair of joined arcs that resemble the shape of the human eye, hence its popular name, Museu do Olho – Eye Museum. Access to this raised structure is by a series of curved ramps. Inside the eye, the 2,000-square-foot gallery focuses on architecture, design, and the visual arts, and displays many of Niemeyer's works.

Niemeyer added a later rectangular gallery on the grounds to display changing exhibitions of works by contemporary Brazilian artists. In addition to visiting during its daytime open hours, try to see the Museu Oscar Niemeyer after dark, when it is spectacularly lighted.

Address: Rua Marechal Hermes 999, Curitiba

Reflecting the style of 17 th - and 18 th -century French palace gardens, Curitiba's Botanical Garden was opened in 1991. Formal beds are outlined by low sculpted hedges, in a geometric design inspired by the city's flag. The landscape is enlivened by fountains, waterfalls, and ponds, and in the park surrounding the gardens are forests of native trees, with walking paths.

The focal point of the botanical gardens is the main greenhouse, an Art Nouveau-style conservatory made of glass and white metal, reminiscent of the Crystal Palace in Victorian London. Its unusual shape includes three domes that merge into the rectangular base. Inside are plants native to the region.

Even the grass in the Garden of Native Plants of Curitiba is a native variety, and its flowers are especially attractive to butterflies and other pollinators. The Garden of the Senses (Jardim das Sensações) is a 200-yard path through a wisteria tunnel, where more than 70 plant species are chosen for their fragrance or tactile appeal. Visitors are invited to try walking through it blindfolded to fully appreciate the garden by using their other senses.

Behind the main greenhouse is the Frans Krajcberg Cultural Space, displaying more than 100 large sculptures created from the remains of trees that were burned or illegally cut, calling public attention to the destruction of Brazil's native forests.

The crystal waters, tall palm trees, and broad stretches of silver sand are only a few of the reasons why Porto de Galinhas is frequently cited as Brazil's best beach. For a country with more than 7,000 kilometers of Atlantic coast, much of it sandy beaches, that's saying a lot.

The town stretching along the beach is laid-back, colorful, and just the right blend of old-fashioned beach town fun and chic boutiques. Its hotels and resorts lie close to the land instead of soaring in high-rise blocks.

Jangadas, picturesque sailboats, will take you out to reef-top pools where brilliant tropical fish swim around your feet in ankle-deep water. You can also take a boat to a lagoon where tiny seahorses swim, and you can scuba dive to explore impressive coral reefs or shipwrecks, kayak in the lagoons and estuary, or buy a fanciful kite from a beach kiosk to fly in the steady breeze. Nearby Maracaipe is popular with surfers.

Porto de Galinhas is just one of the beautiful beaches on Pernambuco's 187-kilometer coast. Closer to Recife, 17th-century Olinda is a UNESCO World Heritage Site overlooking a popular beach. The main beaches in Recife itself are Praia da Boa Viagem, São José da Coroa Grande, and the Carne De Vaca.

São Paulo holds some of the best collections of fine arts in Latin America, and the buildings in which they are housed are architectural landmarks as well. The Museu de Arte, MASP, displays the continent's most comprehensive collection of western art, with representative works by artists from the Renaissance through modern masters.

There are 73 bronze sculptures by Degas and works by Renoir, Manet, Van Gogh, Matisse, Picasso, and Miró. From its beginning, the museum has concentrated on works of mid- to late-20th-century artists, and the building designed by architect Lina Bo Bardi is a Modernist landmark.

Oscar Niemeyer designed the Pavilhão da Bienal de Artes in Ibirapuera Park , home to the Museu de Arte Contemporânea. More than 8,000 works of art - one of Latin America's largest collections of 20th-century Western artists - includes Picasso, Chagall, Kandinsky, Miró, and Modigliani along with major Brazilian painters.

Set above Versailles-inspired formal gardens, Museu do Ipiranga houses paintings and decorative arts.

For another kind of art, don't miss Batman's Alley , an open-air gallery of street art by local and international artists. It is in the bohemian Vila Madalena neighborhood, where you'll also find art galleries showing the works of well-known and rising Brazilian artists and craftspeople.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in São Paulo

The capital of the state of Minas Gerais gave the pre-eminent Brazilian architect Oscar Niemeyer his first commissions, and today, these early Niemeyer buildings draw tourists and fans of Modernist architecture to the city.

His first major work, which immediately set him apart from conventional architects, was the parabolic-curved São Francisco de Assis church, beside a lake in the Pampulha neighborhood. On the hillside above it, and connected by gardens designed by landscape architect Roberto Burle Marx, is Niemeyer's earlier casino building, now an art museum.

Overlooking the large Praça da Liberdade in the city center is the sinuous apartment building, Edificio Niemeyer , one of his most famous early works. The clean geometric lines of his later Palácio das Artes mark the edge of the Municipal Park, housing the Minas Gerais Craft Center featuring works of contemporary craftsmen.

The postmodern Rainha da Sucata – Queen of Scrap Iron – is another landmark building in Belo Horizonte, this one the work of Éolo Maia and Sylvio Podestá. It now houses the mineralogy museum.

Read More: Top Attractions & Things to Do in Belo Horizonte & Easy Day Trips

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Home » Travel Guides » 15 Best Places to Visit in Brazil

15 Best Places to Visit in Brazil

Have you been itching for lush rainforests, fantastic cities, tropical islands, and heavenly beaches?  Then you’ve been itching for a Brazilian adventure. You’ll find colonial towns that will make you feel that you’ve stepped back in time, red-rock canyons that will make you feel that you’ve stepped onto another planet, and awe-inspiring waterfalls and jungles that will make you wish you could stay forever.

Brazil is the country of Carnaval, a celebration that takes over every city and every soul. You won’t believe the human capacity for fun and joy until you experience this festas. Ask yourself what you want in your next holiday, and Brazil is guaranteed to have it on offer.

Diverse ecosystems, with rare and wild plant and animal species unique to all other places on earth, kayaking through rainforests, horseback riding, whale watching, snorkelling in coastal reefs, samba dancing, all-night DJ’s, white sand beaches, history, culture, and big, full-power cities. Let’s explore the best places to visit in Brazil !

1. Rio de Janeiro

There’s just no other place like Rio.  Welcome to lush mountains, brilliant beaches, over the top nightlife, and fanatic football fans. Known as Cidade Maravilhosa, the Marvellous City, Rio is ringed by green mountains while the coast stretches for miles.

Most people come first for the beaches.  The cariocas (locals) consider the beach a home away from home and so much happens here that you could never leave and still have a complete vacation. You’ll love biking on the beach, hiking in Tijuca rainforest, hang gliding, rock climbing, and sailing to one of several small islands just off the coast.

Music is everywhere in the city – with the most popular being the African influenced samba vibe. If you want to explore the nightlife, head to Lapa, the cities red-light distinct. You’ll find live music and street parties every night.

2. Salvador

Located in the state of Bahia, Salvador has a phenomenal energy that’s notable even for Brazil.  Most known for being Portugal’s New World capital, it maintains a great deal of its colonial architecture and you’ll find the historic centre of the town in the Pelourinho neighbourhood.

Here you’ll find large squares with small cobblestone alleys leading away, multi-coloured buildings, and churches like São Francisco with gilt woodwork and other baroque features. There’s an amazing arts movement here. You’ll find Olodum drummers on the streets, along with Capoeira martial artists, and crazy festivals happening everywhere you look.

The culture here is decidedly Afro-Brazilian and you’ll see that in the incredible food, religious ceremonies and rituals, and dance.

3. São Paulo State

Another in the long list of incredible things about Brazil is São Paulo state. It offers some of the best of the best that the country has to offer.  São Paulo city is the current Boom Town – everything here is growing:  commerce, industry, culture, finance, and, of course, tourism. But you can also leave the city for a bit and head to Serra da Mantiqueira.

Use this stunning mountain range, with its 2500m peaks, as your cosy mountain getaway. There’s also Ilhabela, to be used as your posh island escape. Or try Iporanga in the midst of the Brazilian Atlantic Forest.

You’ll also find great beaches with the rainforest as their backdrop – try the lovely Ubatuba for a relaxing few days.

4. São Paulo City

The heartbeat of São Paulo State is Sao Paulo city.  It’s the largest city in Brazil and one of the largest in the world.  It’s a bit of a melting pot, with all kinds of ethnic groups calling it home, including the largest community of Japanese outside of Japan.

You’ll find unbelievable art galleries and experimental theatres, as well as fantastic fine-dining restaurants and upscale bars.  If you want a taste of sophisticated city life, this is your stop.

With 20 million people, Sao Paulo is a mammoth city, and does come with a lot of big city hassles, but for those willing to look a little closer; there is a vibe here that rivals New York City.

5. Brasilia

Built in the 1960’s, Brazil’s capital is a thoroughly planned and intricately organized city. Brasilia’s landmark infrastructure is laid out in the form of an airplane.

Each section of the plane is a different district like residential, government, finance, culture, and commerce.  The architecture here attracts tourists and professional architects alike.

Be sure to check out the Three Powers Square.  Here you’ll find the Supreme Court, Congress, and the Presidential Palace.

6. Fortaleza

Another of Brazil’s big cities is Fortaleza.  It’s best known for an energetic cultural scenes, great beaches, and even greater shopping. If you’re going for the beaches, check out Meireles, Mucuripe, Iracema, and everyone’s favourite, Praia do Futuro.

Spend your mornings strolling through Centro, the oldest part of the city, and then spending your evenings in Praira de Iracema, a neighbourhood densely packed with hotels, restaurants, and nightlife.

Once you’ve had your fill of Fortaleza beaches, use it as starting point to discover the quaint fishing villages and rolling dune beaches of the Ceará coast.

One of the most popular stops for tourists is located along Brazil’s Green Coast in the state of Rio de Janeiro.  Paraty is bursting with waterfalls, emerald green sea, giant coastal mountains and tropical forests.

Once a Portuguese colony, the heart of the town is still the historic centre. Complete with multicoloured colonial buildings and cobbled streets built in the 17th century during the height of the Brazilian gold rush.  Many of the houses have been converted to bed and breakfasts’ which the locals call pousadas.  The entire historic district is great for strolling as the lanes are closed to cars.  It really feels like you’ve stepped back in time.

Don’t forget to check out the colonial forts – many that still have their original cannons – and Capela de Santa Rita, a lovely 18th century church.

There is nothing not to love about the “Venice of Brazil.”  Inside the city is a network of waterways, bridges, islets, and peninsulas, and just outside are tropical rainforests with rivers and islands to explore.  There is a wonderful historic old town here, as well as incredible culture and fantastic beaches.

The old town is known as Recife Antigo and is located on its own island near the harbour. Most would agree that Boa Viagem is the most popular beach in town due to the white sands and coral reef.

Recife is a large city with lots to offer – including an awesome place to spend Carnaval.

Six kilometres from Recife is Olinda, is a 16th century Portuguese colonial town. The historic old town sits on a hill surrounded by trees and filled with churches, museums, and restaurants. In 1982 it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site.  The rest of the town is no less charming with tons of 18th century architecture, monasteries and convents, and fantastically painted houses.

Once a leader in the sugarcane industry, Olinda has transformed into a small artists’ colony; full of artists, workshops, studios, and other creative types.  Check out the pousadas in the old town if you’re interested in using Olinda as a base to enjoy Recife.

Carnaval is slightly different here, celebrated primarily during the day with the music and dance focused on traditional African culture.

Considered by many as the gateway to the Amazon Rainforest, Manaus sits on the Negro River. The capital of Amazonas and one of the largest cities in the country it has incredible landmarks like the Rio Negro Palace and the Amazonas Opera House.

If you’re in the mood for some phenomenal nature, check out the Meeting of the Waters, a three mile stretch where the Solimões and the Negro Rivers run side by side without fully mixing. Eventually, both rivers converge to form the Amazon. Most people come here as a stopping point on their way into, or out of, the Amazon.

If you’ve got time, check out the zoo that lets many of the animals roam free, and a little beachside museum just outside the city centre.

11. Iguazu Falls

This stunning natural wonder runs for 2.7km along the border with Argentina.

Iguazu Falls is a series of waterfalls along the Iguazu. The combination of luscious green forest, exotic wildlife, and breathtaking waterfalls is intoxicating.

Use the city of Foz do Iguaçu as your base camp as you enjoy cascades like the 80 metre Devil’s Throat.  With hundreds of fall’s to discover, you might consider a tour in one of the tourist rubber boats called zodiacs.

Bonito is a one-street town full of charisma.  It serves as an ecotourism model for Brazil and as a hub for the surrounding areas.  If you’re an outdoor adventurer and water enthusiast, then this is your spot.

Discover Abismo Anhumas, a gigantic cavern covered in stalactite where you can dive and swim in an underground lake as well as do some abseiling.  Or how about snorkelling in the crystal clear Rio da Prata? If you’re a bird lover you won’t want to miss the macaws that nest deep in the Buraco das Araras.

To top it all off, explore the Serra da Boduquena National Park.

13. São Luís

The historic centre of São Luís has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to its well-restored colonial mansions. There are so many museums, crafts, and galleries to explore while here.

São Luís maintains a largely Afro-Brazilian culture and you’ll find both reggae and Bumba Meu Boi music festivals. While you’re here be sure to catch the Centro de Cultura, a museum with exhibits on the three major Brazilian festivals.  You might also like the Archaeological Museum and the Casa das Tulhas, a 19th century market building.

When you’re ready, cross the Baía de São Marcos for a quick day trip to Alcântara to see this historic town as it slowly slips into tropical decay.

14. Jijoca de Jericoacoara

This hidden gem is one of the spectacular beaches in Ceara, Brazil. Named by the Washington Post as one of the Top 10 Most Beautiful Beaches in the world, you’ll find calm seas, white sand dunes, and gorgeous blue lagoons.

It’s a nesting spot for large turtles and therefore was declared an Environmental Protection Area; it’s also been a national park since 2002. Thanks to all that, the area has remained largely isolated and untouched.

They’ve had electricity for less than 20 years in Jeri and thanks to local ordinance; the streets can only be lit by the moon.

15. Curitiba

This thoroughly urban capital of Paraná state is a well-known performance centre.  Visit the Wire Opera, a steel tube building with a see-through roof, as well as the Guaíra Theatre for some great programs.

Curitiba is also well known to urban planners across the globe as one of the most efficient cities ever built.  You’ll find a six-block stretch designated as a pedestrian zone, tones of parks and trees, innovative solutions to urban problems like pollution and poverty.

It’s a unique place to recharge before ending your Brazilian adventure.

15 Best Places to Visit in Brazil:

• Rio de Janeiro
• São Paulo State
• São Paulo City
• Iguazu Falls
• Jijoca de Jericoacoara

20 Breathtaking Places to Explore in Brazil

Famous for its love of dancing, fun, festivals, and football, Brazil is one of those bucket list countries most want to visit in their lifetime.

It’s a unique land known for its firsts and originality. Home to the world-famous Rio Carnival, Samba, Capoeira, and, of course, Caipirinha, I spent many months traveling around this extraordinary country. Here are my choices for the best spots…

1. Rio de Janeiro

The city offers something for everyone. Do you want to go hang-gliding and see the stunning skyline from above? Then do it – the birds-eye view of Rio is hard to beat! Trekking? That is also a possibility.

Fancy visiting one of the seven wonders of the world? Go ahead, but set a few hours aside since the ride up to Christ the Redeemer takes a while.

Are you bored of hectic city life? Then I suggest taking a tour of the famous beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema and finishing the day enjoying the nightlife in Lapa, a neighborhood in Rio de Janeiro with bars and clubs catering to all tastes.

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2. Porto de Galinhas, Pernambuco

Situated 70 kilometers south of Recife, the town was an isolated fisherman village until the 1990s. Now, it is accessible to anyone who wants to relax and enjoy the amazing beaches the town offers.

Snorkeling is a must here. Only a couple hundred meters out in the sea is a reef, and when the tide is low, natural pools are created on the beaches behind the reef.

These natural aquariums feature a stunning selection of colorful fish. Other activities include water sports, trekking, Capoeira, and much more.

3. Lençóis National Park, Maranhão

Lençóis – located in the North of Brazil – provides a view that will leave you gasping for air. The national park is a “desert” unlike any other.

Rain collects in the alleys between the dunes, resulting in what could have been a desert: an area where the dunes are varied and turquoise lagoons are as far as the eye can see.

The lagoons are home to many different species of fish, and one species stays dormant in the moist areas of the sand during the dry season, only to surface when the lagoons once again emerge.

The stark contrast between white dunes and crystal clear lagoons makes Lençóis a must-see experience!

4. Pantanal, Mato Grosso do Sul

Pantanal is located in the Brazilian state of Mato Grosso do Sul, except for small parts of the wetland that belongs to Bolivia and Paraguay.

It’s the world’s largest wetland and the place to go if you are interested in wildlife. The open marshes make it easy to spot the animals, and the unspoiled region of Pantanal doesn’t have a large human population, so the wildlife flourishes.

The wetland offers beautiful landscapes and the chance to see various birds and other animals. You’ll also see reptiles and jaguars in their natural habitat.

5. Salvador, Bahia

Salvador is the first colonial capital of Brazil and one of the oldest cities in North and South America. Known as the country’s capital of happiness, it offers numerous outdoor parties, and the city´s street carnival is the largest in the world.

 The city’s beauty is partly due to its location by the sea, but it is much more than that—it has a rich music and architectural culture and a historic area filled with colorful colonial houses and cobblestone streets.

6. Chapada Diamantina, Bahia

The gorgeous National Park Chapada Diamantina takes its name from the region’s cliffs and the diamonds that were once found there.

When visiting the national park, you will have beautiful views of the landscapes from different cliffs. You will see canyons, waterfalls, natural swimming pools, caves, and wonderful untouched landscapes!

7. Jericoacoara, Ceara

This is a remote little beach town in the Ceara state. You can get here by bus from Fortaleza to Jijoca. It’s not an easy journey, but it is worth it!

This paradise-like town has not yet been destroyed by tourism.

The streets of sand, the beautiful beach, the kite-surfing, the breathtaking sunset views from the dunes, the Capoeira at the beach, the amazingly vast and starry night sky, and the hammocks in the lagoon, which are just a beach buggy ride away, are just some of the reasons why Jericoacoara is one of the country’s hidden treasures.

8. Fernando de Noronha, Pernambuco 

Would you want to visit a beautiful beach that just the sight of it will make you gasp for air? Do you want to swim with stingrays, sharks, and colorful fishes?

Do you want to see dolphins, sea turtles, and albatrosses? Well, you can here! Fernando de Noronha is a group of islands in Brazil.

The archipelago consists of 21 islands, islets, and rocks of volcanic origin. This UNESCO World Heritage-listed island is a paradise on earth for anyone interested in diving and animal life.

9. Iguazú Falls, Paraná

This is a world-famous beauty spot! The Iguazú Falls, consisting of over 270 waterfalls of different sizes bordering Brazil, Argentina, and Paraguay, are a truly fantastic spectacle.

If you are in Brazil (or any other bordering country), do not miss the opportunity to see one of Mother Nature´s most significant expressions of beauty in our world.

10. Paraty, Rio de Janeiro

This gorgeous coastal town was first settled in 1667 and has much history. It truly offers something for everyone, including cobblestone streets, magnificent forests, impressive waterfalls, and an emerald-green sea.

There is a lot to do and even more to look at when you visit Paraty, and even though it is compact enough to be enjoyed on foot, you’ll still find a lot of enjoyment and fun activities every step of the way.

There’s even a city center that provides information on how the town became what it is today.

11. Búzios, Rio de Janeiro

A resort town with roughly 34,000 residents, Búzios is the place to go when you want calmness, serenity, and a break from the hustle and bustle of a tourist’s life.

Many of the people who live there are fishermen, and it offers all sorts of water activities, including swimming and surfing.

This town offers a little bit of everything, including shopping, restaurants, bars and lounges, art museums, and just about anything else you need to make your vacation unforgettable.

12. Florianópolis, Santa Catarina 

In southern Brazil, Florianópolis has 60 beaches and is noted for its surfing opportunities. Its economy is based mainly on tourism and information technology, so tourists can find much to do there.

Radical sports and nature offer some of the best tourist opportunities, such as mountain climbing, hang-gliding, rowing, and paragliding.

It is connected to the continent by three bridges, one famous but now-closed Hercilio Luz Bridge.

13. IlhaBela, São Paulo

Also known as Beautiful Island, translated to in Portuguese, IlhaBela has a population of roughly 32,000 and offers attractions such as 360 waterfalls, numerous forests, hiking trails of all difficulty levels, and, of course, beaches.

There are 41 beaches on the main island, so whether you want to swim, sunbathe, or watch dolphins and whales, you’ll never run out of things to do.

With beautiful waters and even more beautiful skies, this is the place to be if you like sand and surf.

14. Maragogi, Alagoas 

Maragogi sits in the northwestern section of Brazil and offers many beaches and living tropical reefs. You can go snorkelling or scuba diving or enjoy the sights that give the place some ambience.

Maragogi is filled with natural beauty and offers plenty of activities, too. You can enjoy sea cliffs that seem to reach the sky and take a boat ride to get up close and personal with the coral reefs. Whatever you do there, it’s a tough place to forget! 

15. Trancoso, Bahia

Trancoso has two things going for it: lots of beaches and an advanced way of reducing their carbon footprint.

There are many festivals to enjoy throughout the year, but its main attractions are the beaches surrounding the area, each seemingly more gorgeous than the previous one.

With white sand, reefs, and water that always seems to be at the perfect temperature, this is the ideal place to be when lots of time in the water and sun is what you’re looking for.

16. Campos do Jordão, São Paulo

A municipality in southeastern Brazil, Campos do Jordão is the highest city in Brazil, reaching 5,341 feet above sea level. Among the many tourist activities are hiking, mountain climbing, treetop cable swings, motorbike, and ATV riding.

There is also a festival that takes place every winter that celebrates classical music. In addition to a fantastic cable car, the town offers bars, restaurants, discos, and other activities that make for great nightlife.

In other words, this town truly offers something for everyone.

17. Ilha Grande, Rio de Janeiro

One thing you will never be short of in this country is stunning paradise-esque beaches. Ilha Grande is an island located in the sea outside the state of Rio de Janeiro, where you will find tropical beaches that will tempt you to purchase your pousada and enjoy the tranquil island lifestyle for the rest of your days.

Previously a prison island, it offers good snorkeling conditions and opportunities to see coral, tropical fish, whales, and penguins.

The island, which has no roads or motorized vehicles, provides hiking trails to different beaches and villages. On the island, you are likely to spot both monkeys and hummingbirds.

18. Teresópolis, Rio de Janeiro

Primarily known as the town home to Brazil’s national football team, this city sits between mountains and hills, has lush green grass, and has some of the most beautiful scenery you’ve ever experienced.

There is a national park found on the part of the city near the city limits, and mountain structures such as Devil’s Needle and God’s Finger are worth visiting.

There are also lakes, statues, and lake houses that are nothing short of extraordinary, and the farms in the area provide a little bit of nostalgia to this now-modern city, which I think is always a win-win situation! 

19. Petrópolis, Rio de Janeiro 

Also known as The Imperial City, it is home to nearly 300,000 residents and offers activities to pique anyone’s interests.

These include theaters, museums, and lots of festivals and carnivals. You can also enjoy some very unique architecture. If you love palaces, national parks, or old monasteries, this is, I think, the place to be! You can visit these places individually or join a tour guide.

This large city offers all the advanced benefits of any other large city, so you’ll never run out of things to do. Regardless of which month you visit the city, you’ll always have something interesting to do, I loved this place!

20. Amazon Rainforest 

Although Brazil is known for its beautiful beaches and outstanding landmarks, the Amazon rainforest is another famous place to visit. The Amazon is the largest rainforest in the world.

The forest covers 60% of Brazilian territory, 13% of Peruvian land, and 10% of Colombian soil. The remaining 17% is distributed between French Guiana, Suriname, Guyana, Venezuela, Ecuador, and Bolivia.

There are so many things to explore in this giant jungle, and one of them is to spot pink dolphins or go bird watching, as the forest is home to over 800 bird species. The best time to visit is during the low-water season, from July until December.

Emma-Clair Ni Clearaigh - writer and photographer With itchy feet, an inquisitive nature and an ardent wanderlust, Emma Clair has always been a traveller at heart. Hailing from the Emerald Isle she calls a small coastal town near Dublin home, but has lived in a few countries including Saigon, Vietnam where she resided for over a year, now she balances travel and travel writing with teaching and a passion for vintage interior design. She counts supping on Bloody Marys on a rooftop in Manhattan, downing Singapore slings at the Raffles Hotel, daring a paraglide on the Grand Cayman, spending an exotic Christmas in Malaysia and exploring the Angkor Wat, Cambodia as her all time favourite travel moments. Although, she’ll always have a special place in her heart for the city where she makes her annual pilgrimages – Paris, her true city of lights. Find Emma-Clair on Instagram or Facebook . Hotel Reviewing Experience - Asked by tourist boards and many high-profile travel brands to formally review hotels including the Catalonia Tourist Board ,  Visit Finland, Visit Zurich and Atout France. Also travelled around the world scouting out and reviewing all the most unique hotels in the world, check out our Instagram page for photos .

22 thoughts on “20 Breathtaking Places to Explore in Brazil”

Going to Visit brazil next week as I don’t know much about it so I was looking for a blog to know the best things to there thanks for this information. As Know I know What to do there.

WOOOOW the OXXXmmm place Brazil one day i will enjoy these natural beauty

Hope everyone get a chance to come to Brazil specially to Jericoacoara!

Oh Jericoacoara is so beautiful and this PIC is so… Bleh. We can find great pics on google.

Visitem Ibicoara, localizada na Bahia,chapada diamantina.

Rio and Ouro Preto are my top choice 😉

Thanks Escape Hunter! Good choices 🙂

So many reasons to visit Brazil! I’d love to visit Salvador and Ilha Grande especially. Gorgeous photos!

Very true, there’s so much more to the country!

Thanks for the suggestions Gabriel!

Wow what a country, I really must visit one day!

Hope you make it one day Scott!

They all look beautiful! Would love to visit and every one of them!

What a beautiful place, would love to go there.

Ilha Grande is a new find for me.. wow! so beautiful. Brazil is definitely one to really explore – thanks for the post, a great eye opener!

Thanks Adam!

There is also Pantanal in the state of Mato Grosso, not only in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul.

Congratulations though for the overall text and pictures!

I want to go to all of these places! Brazil has been on my list for a long time now! Thanks for sharing.

Happy travels 🙂

I admire travelers who focus on South America, it’s such a gorgeous region with so much to see. Thanks for the inspiration!

Wow, I’ve fallen in love just with the pictures alone! It would be nice to get back to Brazil one day. Clearly Rio has so much to offer I could need an extended trip there.

I’m in love with Rio de Janeiro!!! Hope to make it there soon, perhaps in 2015!

What lovely photos and a great read! I wish I had spent longer in Brazil when I went last year as only saw Rio and Iguazu and would have loved to have visited some other parts including Salvador and Pantanal. I also can’t believe Ilha Grande was right there and I didn’t even know about it till just now! It looks stunning 🙂

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15 things to do in Brazil that will amaze you

Sep 28, 2023 • 12 min read

Experiencing Rio’s Carnaval should be on everyone's list of the top things to do in Brazil © A.PAES / Shutterstock

Whether you prefer wilderness or dense cities, the call of frogs in the rainforest or the beat of samba drums,  Brazil  has an experience lined up for you.

The country’s status as a natural paradise is impossible to deny. While superlatives simply don’t do it justice, this continent-sized nation is home to the largest rainforest, the most sprawling wetlands, and more known species of plants, freshwater fish and mammals than any other country in the world.

Brazil is also home to a myriad of indigenous and immigrant cultures, each with their own unique languages, foods and music. Get a taste for Afro-Brazilian heritage by eating acarajé in Salvador, dance samba in Rio de Janeiro, or move to the sounds of frevo  in Olinda during Carnaval. The Amazon, too, hosts some of the biggest parties in Brazil.

If you think you’ll be ready for another vacation at the end of all that, look no further than Brazil’s tropical islands for some downtime. To help you write up your shortlist of must-dos, here are the top things to do when you visit Brazil.

1. Admire the view in Rio de Janeiro

Beaches, architecture, museums, waterfalls, nightlife...there are dozens of good reasons to visit Rio de Janeiro . But if this city has one essential thing to do, it’s getting up high to admire the view. From above, Rio’s dramatic topography is revealed in all its splendor – forest-covered mountains plunging down to the ocean with urban sprawl jammed in between. 

Visitors jostle for selfie space at two of the city’s most popular tourist spots, the 710m-high (2329ft-high)  Christ the Redeemer statue and Pão de Açúcar (Sugarloaf Mountain), which both offer spectacular 360-degree views.

To avoid the crowds, a splurge on a helicopter tour is worth every real. A stunning vista is the reward at the end of hikes in the Tijuca National Park – one of Brazil's best national parks . The views from the Pico da Tijuca and Pedra da Gávea peaks are particularly breathtaking. 

2. Spot whales in Praia do Rosa

Once a sleepy fishing hamlet, Praia do Rosa is now a top surf destination, with charming guest houses and hotels tucked into the hillside above a bay. In the winter months (June to November), surfers are joined by another type of visitor playing in the waves: southern right whale calves. 

Whales were hunted in these waters as far back as the 1700s and were widely thought to be extinct by the 1970s. Despite making a comeback, they’re still highly endangered. The whales migrate here from Patagonia every year to breed, and a marine reserve stretching 130km (80 miles) along the coast was established to help protect them.

Only masochists will want to swim in the sea this far south in the winter, but the beach is a beautiful destination for windy walks and whale spotting year-round. Boat tours can also be booked for a closer look.

3. Watch birds in the Atlantic Forest

Bird-watching enthusiasts will want to trek to some of the most spectacular off-the-beaten-path spots in the Mata Atlântica (Atlantic Forest). One of Brazil’s six biomes, the Atlantic Forest is a hot spot for birding – it's home to nearly 900 bird species, a quarter of which don’t live anywhere else, including three-toed jacamars and kaleidoscopic green-headed tanagers.

You can explore Atlantic Forest habitats in dozens of national and state parks as well as hundreds of private nature reserves. Itatiaia , established in 1937 as Brazil’s first national park, is a birding paradise. Further south, among the mangroves and salt marshes of Superagui National Park and the Sebui private nature reserve, other Atlantic Forest species such as scarlet ibis and the red-tailed Amazon parrot fill the skies at sunset as they come in to roost for the night. 

11 incredible places to visit in Brazil

4. Soak up the energy at a soccer game

It’s impossible not to know when there’s a big soccer game playing in Brazil, as every screen in every bar will have it on, with shouts ringing out across neighborhoods when goals are scored. Join in the action by booking tickets to see a game, where the passionate supporters can be as much of a spectacle as the game itself. 

The Maracanã stadium in Rio de Janeiro is legendary, and it hosted the 2014 FIFA World Cup final between Germany and Argentina, as well as the opening and closing ceremonies of the 2016 Summer Olympics. SR Flamengo is the biggest club in Rio and you can expect excited crowds when the team goes head-to-head with any of its local rivals.

In São Paulo, SE Palmeiras and Corinthians both have gleaming modern stadiums, and the latter in particular is famous for its passionate supporters. The city’s Pacaembu Stadium is an art deco jewel, although it hosts fewer games these days. The soccer museum underneath the stadium is a monument to Brazil’s greatest passion.

5. Get soaked on a speed boat under Iguaçu Falls

The thunder and roar of 396,000 gallons (1.5 million liters) of water pouring over the edge of Iguaçu Falls every second is a thrilling, visceral experience. Dozens of activities in and around the falls will keep visitors occupied for days, from hiking and cycling in the surrounding national park to feeding the birds at the Parque das Aves bird and wildlife sanctuary. 

There’s a good chance you’ll get wet at some stage during your visit, so why not submit to the deluge in the most adrenaline-fueled way possible, with a speedboat ride right under the falls? Turbo-dinghies with 500 horsepower outboard motors pass right beside the falls, where it’s so loud no one will hear your shrieks. The nearby Itaipú Dam – the world’s second-largest – is well worth a visit, too, and accessible via Brazil or Paraguay . 

The best times to book a trip to Brazil

6. Dance during Carnaval 

For one hot, sweaty but utterly thrilling day of your life, you can feel like a star as you don an enormous costume and join a samba school to parade down the Sambódromo during Carnaval in Rio de Janeiro. Broadcast live on national television, with many thousands of spectators cheering from the grandstands, this parade is a fierce competition that’s taken extremely seriously by the samba schools that prepare for it year-round.

But Carnaval is not all about Rio. Each corner of the country celebrates in its own way, and one of the most traditional can be found in the coastal city of Olinda. Instead of samba, the rhythms of frevo , maracatu and afoxé ring out across the hilly streets of this charming town. Local bands playing percussion and brass draw huge crowds of excitable revelers trying to keep pace.

7. Kitesurf on Brazil’s northeast coast

Some of the world's most respected kitesurfing champions are from Brazil – no surprise given the country’s thousands of miles of windswept Atlantic coastline. Ceará in northeastern Brazil has some of the best kitesurfing hotspots, including Cumbuco (a playground for some of the top athletes) and the coastal hubs of Icapuí and Preá.

A little farther north in Piauí state, Barra Grande is an up-and-coming spot for the sport. In Maranhão , lagoons in Atins offer up wind without the waves and the bonus of being on the doorstep of the desert-like Lençois Maranhenses National Park . 

How to get around Brazil

8. Contemplate the origins of life at Serra da Capivara 

The culmination of a lifetime’s work for Brazilian archeologist, Niède Guidon, the Museu da Natureza (Museum of Nature) opened in late 2018. A spiral-shaped building at the edge of the Serra da Capivara National Park , the museum explores the history of humans and other species from their earliest known existence.

Highlights include saber-toothed cat teeth and a 6m (20ft) life-size model of the giant sloth Eremotherium , fossils of which were found in the park. Serra da Capivara has an astounding 300 archeological sites where fossils, ceramics, bones and tens of thousands of examples of cave art – the largest collection in the world – have been found over the decades.

These discoveries suggest that humans settled here as far back as 50,000 years ago, challenging the mainstream theory about human settlement in the Americas. An airport was built near the Serra da Capivara in 2015, but the only commercial flights run from Petrolina and Recife; most visitors drive or catch a bus from Petrolina or Teresina.

9. Understand Afro-Brazilian culture in Salvador

Chili, coconut, coriander, dried shrimp, dendé palm oil...the ingredients of Bahian cuisine make for some of the tastiest dishes in Brazil, showing the strong African influences in the city of Salvador .

A popular street food is acarajé , a deep-fried ball of black-eyed pea paste stuffed with a dried shrimp stew and condiments. The dish is traditionally made by baianas , descendants of African women; it was even given protected cultural heritage status in 2005. Acarajé is just one of the  baiana -made foods connected to the worship of orixás , deities of Yoruban origin. 

Salvador is the best place in Brazil to immerse yourself in Afro-Brazilian culture and religion. The Caminho dos Orixás do Oxum is a tour of the city’s sights run by an agency specializing in Afro-Brazilian culture. Viare Travel also organizes tours tailored around Afro-Brazilian heritage. 

10. Float down the river in Bonito

An ecotourism boom town near the Pantanal wetlands, Bonito is a giant aquarium and a playground for lovers of nature. The clear waters here spring up through a limestone base that acts as a water purifier, allowing for astounding underwater visibility. Visitors will come face to face with all sorts of fascinating fish while floating down the Rio da Prata. Alternatively, rafting down the Rio Formoso provides a chance to look out for fish and birds while you navigate the rapids.

11. Party on at festivals in the Amazon

Trees, not people, are what dominate the Amazon in the popular imagination. But the world’s largest rainforest is home to more than 30 million people and they throw some pretty spectacular parties (they’re Brazilian too, after all). Boi Bumbá is a folk festival held in June in Parantins that recounts the death and resurrection of an ox, with music, fireworks, dancing and glittering costumes. 

The biggest Amazonian festival is Círio de Nazaré, a Catholic celebration that attracts more than a million devotees each October. Devout locals file through the streets of Belém , at the mouth of the Amazon River, in a cathartic throng. Some 966km (600 miles) upriver, the town of Maués throws a festival every December to celebrate the harvest of its energy-boosting guaraná fruit. Locals dance on the beaches of the Maués-Acú River until the early hours. 

12. Visit a cachaça distillery 

Also known as pinga  (among dozens of other nicknames), cachaça is an exclusively Brazilian distilled sugarcane spirit that can range from cheap rocket fuel to an expensive, aged artisanal delicacy. It’s also the main ingredient in the unofficial Brazilian national drink, the caipirinha . Bars can provide an easy education in the delights of cachaça – but better still is a distillery tour. 

The Mapa da Cachaça website is a great resource, mapping out distilleries across the country. Minas Gerais is the main cachaça-producing region in Brazil and home to the oldest functioning distillery, Engenho Boa Vista, which has been in business for more than 260 years.

Overlooking the sea, the Maria Izabel distillery is a must for any visitors to Paraty . Rio Encantos runs a cachaça tour in Rio, taking in the historic center of the city and finishing up a cachaça tasting. 

13. Track jaguars in the Pantanal

The largest cat in the Americas, the jaguar is a rare and elusive creature. These famed big cats roam far and wide across Brazil, and despite game hunting being illegal since 1967, jaguars are still poached. Add in habitat loss – exacerbated by recent fires and the expansion of cattle ranching – and the result has been a decline in their population, placing these magnificent animals at risk of extinction.

One of the best habitats for spotting jaguars is the Pantanal , the world’s largest wetland, especially during the dry season (April to September). Conservation NGO Onçafari was set up in 2011 to help protect the jaguars through research and ecotourism. The group runs jaguar safaris from its base at the Caiman Lodge , a private nature reserve. A number of local tour operators also run jaguar safaris, and the deeper you get into the wetlands, the better chance you have of spotting one.

Brazil's best hikes from beaches to rainforests

14. Relax on a tropical island

Brazil has thousands of beaches along its coastline, but you can side-step the difficult task of choosing one by escaping to a tropical island instead. Ilha Grande , south of Rio de Janeiro on the Costa Verde, has warm seas and white sandy beaches fringed by the forests of the Mata Atlântica. Ilhabela combines good restaurants for the São Paulo weekenders with hiking trails and guest houses hidden away in dense, jungle-covered hills. 

Smaller Ilha do Mel in the south of Brazil near  Paranaguá feels more remote, with just a handful of accommodation options, plus a lighthouse , fort and caves to explore. The Bahian coast is a safe bet for sunshine, and Boipeba has more than 20km (12 miles) of palm-lined beaches and a castaway vibe. 

15. See street art in São Paulo 

A maze of underpasses and overpasses, sidewalks cracked by tree roots, and steep hills make walking in São Paulo something of an adventure sport. But the reward is a wealth of murals and graffiti daubed across the city’s urban sprawl, all the more striking against the city’s ubiquitous gray concrete.

The colorful Beco do Batman (Batman’s Alley) is a top spot for street art and a tourist honeypot. In Centro, artist Felipe Yung’s 10,000 sq m (107,639 sq ft)  Aquarium covers the facades of 15 buildings. The 3.5km (2.2-mile) Minhoção – officially Via Elevada Presidente João Goulart – is closed to traffic at night and at weekends, making it the perfect place to stroll while taking in artwork by such artists as Speto, Zezão and Mag Magrela.

Cambuci, in the southeast of the city, was the stomping ground for the world-famous duo OsGemeos in their youth, and it’s the best place to see their art outside of museums. In northern São Paulo, the Museu Aberto de Arte Urbana (Open Museum of Urban Art) brings together street art by dozens of creators on the huge columns underneath a metro line.

This article was first published Jan 5, 2022 and updated Sep 28, 2023.

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Brazil Travel Guide

Your complete brazil travel guide, with our tips, ideas on things to do, and best things to see in brazil. great for first-time travelers..

Brazil is the largest country in South America and a top tourist destination. In fact, Brazil has its own Ministry of Tourism, which ensures touring is as easy as possible for visitors.

It is a fun, vibrant country and home to iconic landmarks, including Iguazu Falls and the towering Christ the Redeemer statue.

Explore the Amazon Rainforest, go to one of many (over 2,000) beaches, meet friendly and diverse locals, or try some authentic Brazilian cuisine. There is a lot to see and do here.

This Brazil travel guide will help you plan your next vacation.

Popular Guides

• Rio de Janeiro
• Iguassu Falls
• Brazil Cuisine

Our Highlight

Table of contents

Table of Contents

Fast Facts about Brazil

• Power voltage  is 127V- 220V at 60 Hz depending on location. About 60% of households use 127V. Plug C and N. 
• Brazil’s currency  is the Brazilian Real (R$) and 1 R$ is equal to 0.26 USD. 
• Traveling by bus  is considered the best way to get around Brazil. 
• You no longer need a tourist visa, just a valid US passport. 
• The most popular  cellular networks  in Brazil are Vivo, TIM, and Oi. You can purchase a prepaid SIM card through these networks. 
• VAT:  The state average value-added tax (VAT) comes at 17%, though it goes 18% in São Paulo, Minas Gerais and Paraná, and 19% in Rio de Janeiro.
• Language:  Remember Brazilians do not speak Spanish, they speak Portuguese. Try to avoid speaking to Brazilians in Spanish as its not the same language and they won’t necessarily understand what you are saying. Furthermore, English is not widely spoken, even in tourist cities of Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, so brush up on some basic Portuguese words and sayings before you go. Remember it’s not Gracias but Obrigado | Obrigada. 

Things to See and Do in Brazil

• Fly ov e r Rio de Janeiro:   Rio needs to be seen from a helicopter to truly take in the scope of its beauty. Helisul is the premier helicopter tour operator in the city, and we can understand why, these guys were friendly, welcoming and top-notch.
• Go See Iguassu Falls : Iguassu Falls is one of the must-see natural wonders on earth. As a matter of fact, it was recently named one of the new 7 Natural Wonders in the world.
• Sandboard in Floripa: Sandboarding at the dunes of the famous Joaquina beach, one of the most famous beaches of Florianopolis.
• Visit the Ecotourism capital of Brazil:  if you are craving an adventure, than Bonito in Mato Grosso do Sul is the just the place for you. Our recommendation? Abismo Anhumas a huge, stalactite-covered cavern that offers abseiling and diving in an underground lake.
• Visit the Amazon and stay at the  Uakari Lodge :  the lodge is managed by shared management among Mamirauá Institute and the communities from Mamirauá Reserve. The enterprise’s aim is to generate income for the local people and to contribute to natural resources’ preservation. Ten communities from the reserve act managing the Lodge, the employees, the contractors, and the salespeople.
• Visit Copacabana and Ipanema Beach:  While in Rio, we tried three different hotels on three different beaches. If you are going to stay in Rio, you may be interested in one of these three Rio hotels.
• See Christ the Redeemer:  One of the most iconic things to do in Rio de Janeiro is to visit Christ the Redeemer. It’s one of the most recognized in the world. When picturing Rio, this is what everyone envisions. Christo Redentor stands proudly over the city at the top of Corcovado Mountain.
• Visit Jericoacoara:  Jeri is a very special fishing village on the northeast coast of Brazil in Ceara, 330 kilometers northwest of Fortaleza. It was once hailed as having one of the ten most beautiful beaches in the world by the Washington Post. Jericoacoara is surrounded by dunes, freshwater lagoons and set in a national park.  The only way to get to Jeri is a 4×4 Jardineira vehicle or buggy. It is known as the perfect place for kitesurfers and surfers. Paradise is waiting.
• Take a Favela Tour:   If you want to learn more about Rio culture, take a favela tour to visit local communities. There are 800 favelas in Rio and nearly 1.5 million people inhabit these communities.
• Explore the Downtown of Rio de Janeiro:   Downtown Rio is definitely worth spending a day to explore. The alleyways are charming mazes filled with cafés and stores. There’s markets, cathedrals, museums, and monasteries. If you get a chance, be sure to take a Rio City tour.
• See the Museum of Tomorrow:  Opening in December 2015, it is one of the world’s most extraordinary architectural designs.
• Go on on an  Afro-Walking Tour:   Did you know that Rio was the largest slave port in history? It is also the birthplace of samba. Learn about the rich history of Rio de Janeiro on this incredibly informative walking tour.

Brazil Travel Guides

• Things to do in Rio de Janeiro
• Things to do in Iguassu Falls
• Top Brazil Cuisine

Accommodation

Budget:  Brazil offers many hostels in the range of 50-100 Brazilian Reals per night. 

Mid-Range:  For mid-range hotels, expect to pay around 190-260 Brazilian Reals per night. 

High-End:  Upscale hotels will cost 350-750 Brazilian Reals per night. 

Check out our favorite booking platforms Booking.com , Tripadvisor and VRBO for the best deals on accommodation.

Brazil offers many exciting options for food. Bolinhos de bacalhau (codfish balls) and pastels (deep-fried stuffed pastries) are some of the things you can find when in Brazil. Expect to pay around R$15 for a meal, or R$55 total per day. 

Food:  If you’re hungry, we would highly recommend visiting a por kilo restaurant. The concept is just like a buffet but in the end, you weigh your food and pay in terms of weight. The por kilo restaurants have a huge variety of delicious food, including some Brazilian favorites like farofa [a toasted cassava flour mixture], feijão, pastel [think deep-fried empanadas] and of course grilled-to-order meat [with garlic sauce!]. Yum!

Drinks:  Make sure to drink a Caipirinha! It Brazil’s national cocktail, made with cachaça, sugar, and lime. They also make fruit caipirinhas, we would recommend the maracujá [passion fruit] caipirinha.

The tap water in Brazil is increasingly safe to drink. However, as a result of the treatment process, it still doesn’t taste great. To be on the safe side, drink bottled or filtered water (most Brazilians do). All brands are reliable; ask for agua sem gas for still water and agua com gas for carbonated water.

Water:  If you ask for water in a restaurant, you will be served with a bottle of water (charged to your account) unless you specifically request água da casa [water of the house].

The Best Ways to Get Around Brazil

Getting to brazil:.

Getting to Brazil:  If going to Rio de Janeiro, the Galeão Airport is one of the best and is located just 12 miles from the city center. For those traveling to São Paulo, São Paulo-Guarulhos International Airport is the best. 

You can check for the best flights on Skyscanner .

Transportation:

Bus:  Buses are a cheap way to get around Brazil, as well as the preferred way to travel locals. Fares are 3 to 4 Brazilian Reals for one way. 

Train:  Trains are rarely used in Brazil except for cargo, though there are a few train rides made for tourists. To learn more,  click here.  

Renting a car:   To rent a car in Brazil, you must be at least 21 years old, have a valid driver’s license and passport. Prices start around 8 Brazilian Reals per day. Check out  Rentlcars.com  to compare the best rates

When to go To Brazil

As the temperature is great year-round (an average of 80s degrees Fahrenheit), the best time to visit depends on what you want to do.

If you want to see as many animals in the Amazon as you can, going between April to October is your best bet.

If traveling to Rio, December to March is the driest season and is also the season when popular events like the New Year’s Eve celebration (Réveillon) and the Fat Tuesday festival occurs.

For the cheapest flights, go in March.

Where to Stay in Brazil

Hilton Barra Rio de Janeiro:   This 5-star hotel is bus accessible and a short walk to the Maria Lenk Aquatic Center, Citibank Hall, and the beach. The Hilton provides a full range of services, including babysitting, laundry, room service, bicycle rentals, a fitness room, outdoor pool and lounge area, and wheelchair ramps, as well as gorgeous views of Rio de Janeiro. 

Hotel Nacional Inn Campos do Jordão:   This three-star hotel is located in the entertainment center of Sao Paulo. Whether traveling alone, with a partner, or with a family, this hotel has multiple options for rooms, including a Quadruple room for up to 4 guests, and a romantic room complete with complimentary rose petals. Free high-speed Wi-Fi, a fitness room, minibars, sport court, and game room, and breakfast are also included. 

Sol Bahia:   Right by the water, this casual hotel offers beautiful ocean and beach views from the hotel. It’s just a few miles from Salvador shopping. The hotel also comes with a children’s play area, restaurant and bar, an outdoor pool, free Wi-Fi, single and family rooms, and LCD TVs with cable, among other things. 

Read our recommendations at Three Great Hotels in Rio on the Best of the City’s Beaches

Brazil Accommodation Guides

• Three Great Hotels in Rio on the Best of the City’s Beaches
• The Top 18 Most Excellent Things to do in Rio de Janeiro
• Ultimate Iguazu Falls Tour

What to Pack for Brazil

Packing for Brazil can be tricky depending on the areas that you will be visiting and the time of year.

Temperatures below the equator are high and there is very little seasonal variation, although at times it can get cool enough to wear a jacket.

If visitors venture more South, especially during Brazil’s winter months [June – September], expect much colder temperature with the possibility of frost or even snow [although rare].

The cities of Belo Horizonte and Brasília have moderate temperatures, usually between 15 and 30 °C (59 and 86 °F). Rio de Janeiro, Recife, and Salvador on the coast have warm climates, with average temperatures of each month ranging from 23 to 27 °C (73 to 81 °F), but enjoy constant trade winds.

Winter in Rio de Janeiro can be chilly. The cities of São Paulo, Curitiba, Florianópolis and Porto Alegre have a subtropical climate similar to that of the southern United States, and temperatures can fall below freezing in winter.

• Leave your valuables at home  – New Apple watch? Expensive diamond earrings? Gold chain? Leave all your shiny, expensive valuables at home.
• Classic Basic items – You do not need to be a fashionista to blend in. The key is in embracing neutrally toned items that can be mixed and matched easily. Avoid logos, baseball caps, shorts, hoodies, flip-flops, and running shoes as these items scream  tourist!
• Personal Safety products  – Certain areas in Brazil are known as pickpocket hotspots; before leaving for your trip, make sure to pack some  personal safety products , like money belts and locks, so that you can keep
• Get Medical Insurance  – adventure and eco-travel is common in Brazil; if you plan on trekking in the Amazon; paragliding and/or hiking, make sure to be  covered just in case .
• Bug Spray! –  As of April 2017, the World Health Organization has updated their yellow fever vaccination recommendations in terms of Brazil as the yellow fever virus transmission continues to expand towards the Atlantic coast of Brazil in areas not deemed to be a risk for yellow fever transmission prior to the review risk assessment.
• As a result of this make sure to cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants, use EPA-registered insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE, also called para-menthane-diol [PMD]), IR3535, or 2-undecanone (methyl nonyl ketone)(Always use as directed)  OR  Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). 
• Lastly, if you are traveling from Brazil to another country make sure to check if you need a yellow fever vaccination certificate or might be denied entry.
• Rain gear –  if you plan on visiting São Paulo and/or Rio in the wintertime, be prepared for rain; make sure to bring along an umbrella and/or a raincoat.

Brazil Travel Guide: Best Booking Resources

Whenever we travel to we make sure to start with these companies. We have tried a lot of different ones over the years and all of these have consistently proven to be the best when it comes to offering great prices.

We have used every one of these personally and continue to do so.

• Booking.com : This is our go site to when comparing prices for accommodation. It usually has the cheapest prices, especially in Europe and we love their interface. Not to mention you get free cancellation and you are guaranteed the best price.
• Trip Advisor :  What we like about Trip Advisor is that we can look at all the reviews and then book our accommodation. TripAdvisor is where we go when we want to compare prices with multiple accommodation providers.
• VRBO : is the main search engine we use when we are looking for a home or apartment rental. It can sometimes be cheaper than hotels and it is the best way to stay in areas that offer a more local feel.
• Hostelworld :  With one of the largest databases of hostels in the world, Hostelworld is the go-to site when you are looking for budget accommodation.
• Skyscanner : This is the first place we check for flights. It consistently comes back with the cheapest and best options. It allows us to compare a lot of airlines to get the best price.
• Rome 2 Rio :  If you want to see how to get somewhere by plane, train, bus, ferry or car Rome2Rio lays it all out for you as well as related costs.I love how they show it all to you on a Google Map and it works offline.
• Get Your Guide:  For all your day trip and city guide needs, we use Get Your Guide. It has the world’s largest collection of things to do with more than 30,000 activities in 7500 destinations.
• World Nomads Insurance:  When traveling to Italy you should always have travel insurance. We have found the best bang for your buck is by far World Nomads.

Brazil Travel Guide: Related Articles

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Where to stay in Rio De Janeiro In 2024 – The Best Hotels and Neighborhoods

28 Best Things to Do in Rio De Janeiro in 2024

The 25 Best Places to Visit And Things To Do In Brazil!

Posted on Last updated: December 15, 2023

Categories Brazil , South America

Expert travel storyteller Jordan Adkins, founder of InspiredByMaps.com, brings a decade of adventures across 101 countries and 450+ UNESCO sites into rich, off-the-beaten-path narratives, melding ecological expertise with genuine, seasoned travel insights. His full bio can be found here.

One of the world’s most fascinating countries, there are so many things to do in Brazil that adventure-hungry travelers are spoilt for choice. Whether you want to hike in the jungles, lie on the beach or dance in the streets, you can do that here.

From tranquil beaches to vibrant cities to lush rainforests, the country spans a huge variety of landscapes — and as a result, there are so many places to visit in Brazil.

If you’re not already captivated by its scenery and biodiversity, you’ll be hooked by the culture. There are energy and a love of life that runs through every aspect of Brazilian culture.

Samba dancing, drumming in Carnival, indigenous and Portuguese influences, mouth watering food; all of these aspects and more combine to create an atmosphere that you’ll want to stay in forever.

And, to put it plainly: Brazil loves to party!

You’ll have heard of Carnaval, of course; a cacophony of music, dancing, and general joy. There are also diverse festivals going on throughout the year, great nights out in the cities and towns; not to mention just any quick drink turning into dancing at dawn!

So, what are some of the best things to do in Brazil? With so much on offer, how can you narrow it down? We’ve got some suggestions below.

The 25 Best Places to Visit And Things To Do In Brazil! 🇧🇷

Page Contents

Rio de Janeiro

Fernando de noronha, iguazu falls, recife & olinda, lençóis maranhenses national park, parque nacional da chapada diamantina, ilha grande, florianópolis, amazon from manaus, são miguel das missões, alter do chao, belo horizonte, the pantanal, salvador city, chapada dos veadeiros national park, vale dos vinhedos, armação dos búzios.

World-famous for its Copacabana and Ipanema beaches, Christ the Redeemer statue and wild Carnaval, Rio de Janeiro is absolutely top of the list of things to do in Brazil. We can’t pretend it’s a quiet place, but it’s got a relaxed, carefree attitude that is intoxicating for travelers.

Otherwise known as the Cidade Marvalihosa (Marvelous City), here you’ll find lush forests and mountains circling the city while the beach acts as the city’s backyard.

You can hike, surf, sail or rock climb – or just chill on the sands, if you’d rather! It’s a stunning landscape for a city and you’ll never stop appreciating the beauty. In a city this, well, marvelous, it’s hard to get past the superlatives and decide exactly what to do — so to help, we have put together a list of the top things to do in Rio de Janeiro Brazil!

The rich and varied history means there’s plenty to discover among Rio’s myriad attractions. That is, if you want to leave the endless fun of the bars and the beach. Arriving at a festival time means you’ll soak up even more of the joyful celebration, whether it’s a big football match, Carnaval or weekend samba parties. New Year is also a pretty spectacular time to enjoy all that makes Rio special.

The tropical oasis of Fernando de Noronha is in an entire league of its own. The isolated tip of a submerged ocean volcanic, the archipelago of Fernando de Noronha, lies 271 miles (350 km) off Brazil’s northeast coast and consists of 21 islands.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site with a sensitive ecosystem, tourist numbers here are restricted to around 450 to 500 people per day. But the lucky few that make it here are duly rewarded …

Fernando de Noronha has everything you could want from an unforgettable island getaway. Picturesque scenery, majestic seascapes, fine white sand beaches, bountiful diving, animated snorkeling, turquoise waters, and oh-so-much-more.

Only one island in the chain is inhabited, with a population of around 5,000 people. Otherwise, most of the rest of this paradisaical retreat is left to the seabirds, reptiles, turtles, and exotic marine life. A nature lover’s paradise, Fernando de Noronha can be compared to Fiji , an arresting beach island scene straight out of a Hollywood film set.

There are a limited number of flights daily, so getting here – and accommodation once you arrive – is not particularly cheap. Still, if you can stretch your budget, Fernando de Noronha is worth every cent.

As well as fascinating cities, Brazil also has some of the most stunning natural wonders in the world; the awe-inspiring Iguazu Falls are among these. There are 275 separate drops along the 2.7 kilometers of the falls, which separate Argentina and Brazil. From the Brazilian side, you go to the Igauçu National Park to enjoy the spectacle.

There’s an intricate series of footpaths and walkways that enable visitors to get up close to the natural beauty and on the Brazilian side, there’s a long pathway along the canyon.

A must-see for everyone is Devil’s Throat, a narrow chasm that takes half of the river’s flow along; you can imagine the power and noise of the water there.

Get a panoramic view of the falls from the trail or splurge on a helicopter ride for the bird’s eye perspective. Stay in the nearby town of Foz de Iguacu so you can get up early to beat the heat and the crowds; then enjoy being mesmerized by the majesty of this remarkable place.

Recife and Olinda are sister cities on Brazil’s northeast coast that stand within sight of each other. Both started life as colonial cities under Portuguese rule, exploiting the vast richness of the New World, but over the centuries Recife has pulled ahead while Olinda has kept its small-town charm. The juxtaposition of both is tantalizing, and ensuring visiting them together is one of the top things to do Brazil.

Recife, the capital of Pernambuco state, has a booming population and everything from charming canals and vividly painted colonial buildings to glistening skyscrapers, palm-fringed beaches, and exuberant nightlife. An energetic and inspiring city, Recife also has plenty of entertainment and cultural attractions, more than a dash of grit and growing traffic problems. A true metropolis – warts and all.

In contrast, Olinda – just a short bus trip to the north – has very much maintained its colonial charm and clings to a slower pace of life. Position on a hillside overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, this UNESCO World Heritage site is an artsy counterpart to Recife with galleries, workshops, baroque churches, convents, monasteries, and wonderfully preserved houses and manors.

It is rare in the world to find two destinations that contrast and complement each other so completely. On their own, each would be worth a visit – but together, they become one of the absolute top highlights of Brazil.

A must-visit destination for anyone fascinated by the natural landscape, this 1550 square kilometer national park is a spectacular area filled with dunes, lagoons, and beaches. Its undulating dunes give the park its name – ‘Lençóis’ means ‘bedsheets’ and these expanses really do look like sheets draped across the land.

The rains between May and September get filtered by the sand to create incredibly clear blue lakes between the hills of sand. You can choose whether you navigate the area on foot, on horseback or in a car; whatever you do, you won’t regret making the effort to come here. It’s got an almost otherworldly quality, making a dramatic impact.

It’s easy to see why it is called one of the most beautiful places in Brazil – and people make the considerable effort to get here. 

The most convenient way to explore is to stay at Barreirinhas on the river although if you don’t mind heading somewhere more remote, Santo Amaro and Atins are more peaceful bases.

An expansive national park in eastern Brazil, Chapada Diamantina attracts adventurous tourists looking for nature, hiking, colonial wonders, and off-the-beaten-track experiences. And boy, do they find it here.

An almost untouched wonderland of cascading waterfalls, intrepid hiking, and panoramic views – the entire park sits atop an otherworldly 41,751 square kilometers (16,120 sq. mi) plateau bounded by cliffs in central Bahia.

The most famous attraction is the Fumaça Waterfall, one of the tallest waterfalls in Brazil, which at 340 m tall evaporates in a mist before even reaching the ground. Another famous highlight is the cauldron-like Devil’s Pool, with its deep black water and sinister history, or the enormous sandstone-and-quartz Lapão Cave.

Parque Nacional da Chapada Diamantina offers everything from day hikes to multi-day journeys. There are plenty of trained local guides happy to help you organize your expeditions once you arrive. The old colonial mining towns of Lençois and Mucugê are popular bases for exploring the park and offer cobblestone streets, outdoor cafes and a cute range of pousadas (a boutique inn that provides a more intimate experience than your traditional hotel).

If you’re tired of the mega-cities yet still want to experience town life in Brazil, Ouro Preto is the place to go. It’s one of several colonial towns in the state of Minas Gerais that date back to the 18th-century gold rush and by far the most beautiful.

It’s not just historically important for the gold mining but also for being the setting for the country’s first independence movement. That is probably why they made if a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

If you have traveled to places like Lisbon,  you’ll really be able to see the influence of Portugal on Ouro Preto. In fact, Ouro Preto actually has some of the best-preserved Portuguese colonial architecture, with few signs of modern urban development—unlike Macau.

Sure it might not be that easy to get to, but the best places never are and you will be justly rewarded with a fairytale town like no others. It’s pure magic!

There’s so much joy here in getting lost in the narrow, cobbled, steep streets (not to mention you’ll have thighs of steel by the time you’re done!) and the views once you get to a vantage point are incredible.

It’s also one of the more artistic things to do in Brazil with a range of art galleries and cultural centers showing off the mineiro art.

Do you dream of cocktails at sunset? White sand under your toes and the sound of waves crashing on the beach? A stress-free location away from chaos where no cars are allowed, prices are low, and your biggest worry will be ‘Açai or Coconut for lunch?’

Well then, do we have the island for you. Ilha Grande is a fabulous tropical island located only a few hours bus and boat trip away from Rio de Janeiro on Brazil’s stunning southeast coastline. Yes, this could be all yours: gorgeous blue skies, empty beaches, and that tempting ocean. Just imagine…

It’s a natural paradise with 99% of the island being covered in natural Atlantic Rainforest, only one small town and a series of paths crisscrossing the dense vegetation leading to deserted beaches.

Yes, it sounds like heaven— and that’s because it probably is.

Then there is the thriving (but laid-back) nightlife scene, incredible sunsets, fantastic snorkeling, funky monkeys, range of affordable accommodation islands, and abundance of caipirinhas.  Most people who travel here end up extending their stay, but it’s hard to know beforehand if you will like it, and how long you will need, so we have put together a more comprehensive guide to things to do in Ilha Grande to help you fall in love with this magnificent place.

From secluded natural beauty to wild and wonderful festivities with a cacophony of noise and color. An annual festival held in February in the run-up to Lent, this is a time where Brazilan cities let loose with parades, music, and dancing.

A lot of dancing.

While the Rio Carnaval is the most famous, you can go to any city in Brazil at this time and experience the best party you’ve ever been to. The entire county celebrates Carnaval and unifies for almost a week of non-stop partying.

In the Southeast Region you’ll hear a lot more samba; in the Northeast, more frevo and maracutu. Whatever the music and wherever you are, shine your sequins and get ready for spectacle galore!

Freshwater snorkeling in heavenly Bonito one of the best-kept secrets in Brazil, though its popularity is growing.

Bonito is an eco-tourism hub in Mato Grosso do Sul state in Southern Brazil. The encompassing area has garnered a reputation for its crystal-clear rivers, huge, stalactite-covered cavern, and a bounty of colorful fish.

Located on the edge of the great Amazon basin, Bonito is a mirror into the underworld – similar to the great cenotes of Tulum and Cuba . While unassuming on the surface, there is a reason by Bonito is named after the Portuguese for “beautiful.”

While snorkeling in the magical waterways that end in shallow (and warm) pools as clear as glass is the main highlight, Bonito is also the jumping-off point for expeditions into the Pantanal region, filled with jaguars, boa constrictors, and colorful birds. Then there are the river-beaches on clear water lakes, zip-lining adventures, paddle boarding, scuba diving, and fantasy waterfalls.

An aquarium come to life; Bonito is a jungle-laden paradise with just enough eco-tourism operators to make life easy— yet not enough to destroy what makes this spot so enchanting.

The capital of southern Brazil’s Santa Catarina state, Florianópolis, is the place to go for beach resorts, surfing, boating, and a heavy German influence.

Most of the city lies on the spectacular 54-kilometer-long Santa Catarina Island and connected to a mainland commercial area via the famous Pedro Ivo Campos Bridge. The frontier between Portuguese and Spanish empires, the region was filled with German-speaking immigrants in the 1820s to act as a buffer – and has had a lasting legacy.

These immigrants kept their small family-owned farming practices, similar to North America at the time, yet vastly different from the mega-plantation culture of most of Brazil. This resulted in Florianópolis having a healthier legacy of equality and egalitarian policies than the rest of the country — a trend that continues today. Not to mention a wild Oktoberfest festival, fascinating history, and a flourishing cultural scene.

For tourists, there is sun, sand, and surf aplenty, with beach hopping being the most popular attraction. The seafood and beer are both expectedly standout, as is the sophisticated city vibes. With over a hundred beaches, all encircled by picturesque hills covered with lush Atlantic Forest vegetation – it is impossible not to love this unique place in Brazil.

What Sao Paulo lacks in Rio-style beauty and landscape, it more than makes up for in energy and pride. Ask any resident and they’ll tell you at length how they’ll never live anywhere else – so it’s definitely somewhere that travelers should check out. Traffic galore there may be but there’s plenty to experience in this bustling cosmopolitan city.

 It’s the art center of Brazil so, as might be expected, there are a wealth of museums, galleries and cultural centers. Not to mention all the street art.

Head downtown for the historic area and many of the main attractions; head to the other areas for more of an insight into the daily life of the Paulistanos. In the evenings, aside from a great nightlife, there is always something happening, whether it’s theatre, musical performance and international events.

We love heading to Avenida Paulista on a Sunday to join in the masses of people walking, cycling and rollerblading along the temporarily pedestrianized street. The city is also home to a wide range of culinary delights and it’s definitely one of the top places to go in Brazil for foodies.

Another contender for the most beautiful town in Brazil, Tiradentes in the Brazilian state of Minas Gerais, is an unspoiled case of Portuguese colonial architecture. It is so well preserved and so appealing, you would at times think you have mistakenly wandered into a movie set – and will catch yourself thinking,’ how can a place be so perfect.’

Gorgeous homes set along cobblestone roads enveloped by green mountains and a truly majestic church: Tiradentes is the kind of place dreams are made of. Except it is real. When gold became scarce, this historic mining town was largely forgotten and fell into decay. Crucially, this meant it wasn’t modified or ravaged by growth and modernity. When tourism began to trickle back here in the late 1970s, intrepid guests were rewarded with exceptionally preserved Baroque structures thanks to the years of isolation.

Beyond the obvious visual appeal, there is a booming restaurant scene, lush forest hikes, and some wonderfully insightful museums. The charming São José Fountain should not be missed, along with the vintage steam train that runs between Tiradentes and the magnificent Serra São José grouping of quartzite blocks.

If you’re looking for things to do in Brazil that give you more of a perspective on the country, then Brasilia is one of those. Established as the capital city in 1960, it was a utopian vision of organized urban design in response to the perceived chaos of Rio and Sao Paulo.

It was designed in the shape of a crucifix but is also often compared to an airplane, with Eixo Monumental forming the central body with the star attractions laid out along it and two wings making up the residential and commercial sectors.   

It’s a spread-out city with lots of spaghetti junctions so you can’t walk around it the same way you would other cities, but there’s still plenty to discover.

Head up to the viewing platform of the Television Tower to appreciate the city plan or stroll past the government buildings on the Esplanade of the Ministries. Go bar hopping, starting at old favorite Beirute, or enjoy culinary experiences in some of Brasilia’s ever-increasing contemporary restaurants.

A small town popular with backpackers, Paraty is flanked by the jaw-dropping mountains on Brazil’s Costa Verde and supremely positioned between Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo.

The perfect place to break up a trip, Paraty has a lot going for it with a rich Portuguese colonial center including cobbled streets and many excellent 17th- and 18th-century buildings due to its history as an important port during the Brazilian Gold Rush.

Today more of a popular artist refuge and tourist hotspot than an export hub, Paraty was recently recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site along with the nearby island of Ilha Grande.

Paraty is a welcome escape from the city madness, with tropical hiking, horseback riding, boat cruising, and snorkeling. Or you can just spend hours exploring the colonial-era streets, darting into small cafes, whitewashed churches, and modern galleries. Paraty has long been a beloved getaway for residents of Rio, but now the cosmopolitan vibes have been taken a step further with the influx of international vacationers.

In August, Paraty host the annual Festival of Cachaça, and in May, there is the Paraty Bourbon Jazz Festival, which includes many of the world’s top artists. Add to this the 65 islands and 300 beaches nearby, a fun cook school, a slew of bars and luxe lodgings, and it is safe to say Paraty will firmly keep its status as one of the best places to visit in Brazil for the foreseeable future.

The Amazon has captured the imagination of hundreds of thousands of people throughout the ages and for good reason. Its incomparable ecosystem and diverse flora and fauna are fascinating not just to biologists, but to travelers, which is why going on an Amazon Rainforest River Tour on the Rio Negro is so popular!

Cruising down the Amazon River taking in the quiet majesty of the area is one of the things to do in Brazil that just can’t be missed.

Manaus is the largest city nearby and definitely the most convenient location you can explore from. Here you’ll find a wide range of accommodation options and tour operators to fit every budget. And prices are a lot lower here than what you can find in the Ecuadorian Amazon or Peruvian Amazon if that helps…

You can go on organized hikes into the jungle, canoe trips or even go fishing. All of these are unforgettable experiences to help you appreciate the power of the river and the life it generates around it.

São Miguel das Missões in Rio Grande do Sul state is a monumental Spanish Jesuit mission ruins from the 17th century.

It was built because the Jesuits at the time of colonization were on a mission of evangelizing the Indigenous people of Bacia do Rio Prata (a territory that today is spread across Argentina, Paraguay, and Brazil), to preserve their culture and language and protect them from Portuguese slave traders. Eighteen such villages were built as places where converted Indigenous people lived, to adapt their lifestyle to Christianity.

The Jesuits were eventually expelled under the Treaty of Madrid when the area was transferred from Spain to Portugal. The Guaraní tribes who lived here refused to comply with the order to relocate from their homelands, and thus a joint Portuguese-Spanish army attacked and defeated the Guaraní. The São Miguel das Missões was left in ruins, the Guaraní were killed and enslaved, and this great social experiment ended.

The ruins today have a ‘paradise lost’ feel to them, with an incredible museum and many gorgeous viewpoints to appreciate the scale of the undertaking.

In 1984 the Mission was listed as World Heritage under the Jesuit Missions of the Guaranis listing, along with three others in Argentina including the equally impressive San Ignacio Mini.

Hidden in the murky depths of the famous Amazon jungle, Alter do Chao is a quirky and offbeat beach destination that boasts astonishing white sandy stretches that will convince you you’ve somehow traveled to Brazil’s famous north coast.

Located around 33 kilometers west of the already isolated Santarém, Alter do Chao is most well-known for its Ilha do Amor (Island of Love), an arresting island ringed by a white-sand beach. But there is much more to this place than just beaches; there is a three-fingered lagoon to investigate – either by canoe or stand-up paddleboard – and boat tours into the surrounding Amazon.

You should not miss a trip to Ponta do Cururu at sunset where large numbers of pink and grey dolphins gather for an evening meal. An ethereal experience — to say the least.

Positioned on a major tributary of the Amazon river between Belem and Manaus, the isolation of Alter do Chão’s and retreat from the modern world is the appeal here – and the main reason why there are so few visitors. A lack of roads in the region means the main way to get here is by flying to Santarém and then catching the bus. You’ll be duly rewarded for your efforts.

While not on most tourist itinerary for Brazil, landlocked Belo Horizonte is the capital city of Brazil’s Minas Gerais and the countries sixth-largest city.

A lively, industrial and gritty city – architectural lovers should not miss this city and the Pampulha Lake Architectural Complex, home to an assortment of incredible designs by Brazil’s modernist architect Oscar Niemeyer. There is the wavy-topped Church of St. Francis of Assisi, a casino, a ballroom, the Golf Yacht Club, and various other edifices all in collaboration with famed landscape architect Roberto Burle Marx and give a hint to what he would later build in Brasília.

The artificial lake itself is also stunning and has capybara living around its edge.

Back in the concrete jungle, Belo Horizonte is a sprawling mess – but has plenty of charm if you are willing to seek it out. The Instituto de Arte Contemporânea Inhotim is the world’s largest open-air contemporary art museum with 87 acres of beautiful gardens— then there is a vibrant central market and a revitalizing museum scene.

Ouro Preto is also a short distance away, making Belo Horizonte a convenient stopover point.

Another of the most incredible natural sites in Brazil, the Pantanal is virtually unpopulated. It’s an enormous wetland covering approximately 210,000 square kilometers and hosting an amazing variety of animals.

Definitely, one for the nature lovers, the wildlife here is unmissable if you like to see creatures in their natural habit. Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Pantanal Conservation Area actually consists of a group of four protected areas with a total area of 187,818 ha.

Positioned in western central Brazil at the south-west corner of the State of Mato Grosso, the protected site stewards 1.3% of Brazil’s Pantanal region, one of the world’s largest freshwater wetland ecosystems.

The headwaters of the region’s two primary river systems, the Cuiabá and the Paraguay rivers, are found here, and the wealth and diversity of its vegetation and animal life are magnificent.

Belém, the largest city of the state of Pará in the country’s north, is the eastern gateway to the Amazon River.

2.5 million people reside in this tropical metropolis, which has benefited throughout its history from a position approximately 100 km upriver from the Atlantic Ocean.

While many might flit through this transit hub in a rush to more exotic adventures, you should spend a few days exploring the dynamic city filled with mango trees, vibrant markets, museums, and a growing restaurant scene. For a while during the rubber boom in the late 19th century Belem was known as the ‘tropical Paris; with electricity, grand monuments, streetcars, and a sophisticated European vibe – though today Belem is very much forging its own path.

The standout highlight has to be the colorful riverfront district Cidade Velha (old town) filled with Portuguese-colonial architecture similar to Lagos or Porto – with plenty of ornate churches, picturesque azulejo-tile houses, and an extensive 17th-century fort.

Another ‘must-see spot’ is the vast Ver-o-Peso open-air market located on Guajará bay’s docks and hawking exotic Amazonian fish, unknown fruit, and indigenous handicrafts. It is considered one of the largest markets in Latin America, and you can spend at least a few hours perusing the items on sale, interspersed with breaks for a gratifying bowl of pulped açai berries at one of the stands and a cold bottle of Tijuca beer to top it all off.

In the evening – try to catch an opera or performance at the Theatro da Paz, which would look right at home in Vienna or Buenos Aires .

We love Salvador, Brazil’s third-largest city, for its lively mix of cultures and styles, its 17 th and 18th-century architecture, and its endless vibrancy. This is the epicenter of Brazil’s Afro-Brazilian community and where the best music and culture can be found.   

Of all the things to do in Brazil, make Salvador one of them. During the days, explore streets so picturesque that you feel like you have stepped back in time, especially in the center (Pelourinho); at night, take a ride on the 85 meters Art Deco Lacerda Elevator on your way to a delicious meal in one of the many restaurants. Architecturally blessed and culturally diverse, Salvador was the first capital city of Brazil and has it all.

In between times, chill on the beach. This is a city that likes to live, so enjoy being part of it!

An improbable eco-tourism destination, the remote Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park in the central Brazilian state of Goiás is 650 square kilometers of big sky country. There are rolling hills, lush flora and fauna, dramatic canyons, and plenty of hiking trails to keep you occupied for at least a few days.

Rivers crisscross the park (and surrounding private land), creating a lattice of canyons, cliffs, and rivers – usually with a waterfall somewhere to allow for a refreshing dip at the end of the hike. There is an abundance of orchids, and iconic wildlife species like jaguars, armadillos, jaguars, and toucans.

Guides are no longer required to hike here, but if you want to learn about the biodiversity here, they are recommended. The Travessia das Sete Quedas hike, in particular, is simply magical, a 23-kilometer trail through a spectacular canyon and crossing the Rio Preto river twice. You can do it all in one day, or overnight in a campsite with seven small waterfalls nearby.

Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park access is from the nearby town of São Jorge, which connects to kooky Alto Paraíso de Goiás and the rest of the start.

Who would have expected one of the top things to do in Brazil to be to visit wine country, but yes – the Vale dos Vinhedos Wine Region proves this marvelous country does have it all.

Located in the southern state of Rio Grande do Sul between the cities of Garibaldi, Bento Gonçalves, and Monte Belo do Sul, this area has a strong Italian influence. It also offers the unique properties required in terms of soil, climate, topography, and culture to create a desirable bottle of wine.

Vale dos Vinhedos covers 82 square kilometers (32 square miles) and is home to over 30 wineries and an influential national grape and wine research bureau. Miniature estates sit alongside larger wineries providing plenty of options for wine tours, with most allowing drop-in visitors.

Even for those who don’t like wine, the attractive area also houses a cornucopia of cheese factories, art workshops, craft houses, restaurants, and boutique accommodations. The work of the Italian immigrants over the last 150 years has culminated in Vale dos Vinhedos getting a reputation for outstanding vintages, particularly Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. It was even recently named one of the world’s ten best wine travel destinations recently, joining the likes of Queenstown in New Zealand or Champagne in France.

While not yet swamped with international tourists, the Vale dos Vinhedos is exceptionally popular with locals and has a well-established collection of rural inns and tourist routes. You’ll be rubbing your eyes and thinking you have been transported to Italy or Northern California.

One hundred eighty kilometers from Rio de Janeiro is Armação dos Búzios – or just Búzios for the devoted, a renowned seaside town where Rio’s elite flock each weekend.

An urbane Eden of greenery, clear waters and narrow cobblestone streets create an enduring appeal that has seen Búzios transform over the past 50 years from a small fishing village to Brazil’s St. Tropez. Located on a jutting peninsula, Búzios is a collection of three settlements and 17 beaches with oceanfront dining, an arresting harbor, and all the expected tourist amenities.

There is everything from hostels to high-end hotels and more options for relation, shopping, and nightlife then we could ever cover. It is hard to know where to start. And then there are the off-shore islands, ideal for diving, world-class gastronomy, world-class galleries, and boutique shopping.

But our favorite activity has to be people watching here. Buzios attracts the most fashionable people from not just Brazil but around the world. So, as you might imagine, one of the best things to do is simply choose a seat at a pavement cafe, order a Caipirinha, and watch the gorgeous people go by…

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• The 15 Best Destinations To...

The Best Destinations to Visit in Brazil

Brazil boasts more than 70 national parks and dozens of monuments, including one of the Seven New Wonders of the World – Christ the Redeemer , in Rio de Janeiro . Together, these attractions create one of the most appealing and exciting destinations in South America . People come from every corner of the world to discover the superlative coastline, sprawling metropolises and thick jungles, which are home to monkeys, jaguars and river dolphins. So where to go in Brazil? The vast landscape holds many prized spots, but the places below are some of the very best.

1. rio de janeiro.

Architectural Landmark

2. Belo Horizonte

Belo Horizonte is known for its bar scene rather than thumping nightclubs, which comprises dozens of bars packed together to create the ideal late-night drinking spot for socializing and winding down at the end of the week. For food , you’ve come to the right place as everything from mobile stalls to sophisticated restaurants serve up classic Minas Gerais cuisine molded around home comfort and slow-cooking. If art is more your thing, hire a car to Inhotim , a large interactive art gallery set within a botanical garden.

3. São Paulo

They don’t call São Paulo the concrete jungle for nothing. This often misunderstood city, home to over 12m people, is regarded as the business and financial capital of Brazil. Yet that sweeping definition overlooks the quirks and curiosities that make São Paulo the buzzing cosmopolitan city that it is. For culture, it has some of the country’s finest art galleries and museums, and you can excite your palate at one of many international restaurants celebrated for their haute cuisine. For a change of pace, head to Praça Roosevelt for hipster bars and an alternative, liberal crowd. Pace yourself, as you’ll need stamina for the nightlife here, which gives São Paulo its reputation as a city that doesn’t sleep.

Founded in the early 16th century by Portuguese settlers, Olinda is a small colonial town neighboring much larger Recife. Its collection of baroque churches, 18th-century convents, and vibrant houses cling to the hillside, coupling exquisite architecture with sweeping ocean views. The local bohemian crowd have restored many of the buildings into artistic hubs, creating a center of art galleries, museums and open studios. Come here in February to experience one of Brazil’s most traditional and lively carnivals .

5. Fernando de Noronha

Natural Feature

6. Florianopolis

Architectural Landmark, Historical Landmark

Located in the south of Brazil, Florianopolis , the capital of Santa Catarina is known for its picturesque beaches, pastel-hued sunsets and popular holiday resorts. Enjoy the many sun-kissed beaches on 54km (34mi) Santa Catarina Island. Or pick up the pace at Lagoa da Conceição, a saltwater lagoon with strong winds ideal for windsurfing and pleasant boat trips.

7. Foz do Iguaçu

Down in the south of Brazil, straddling the border of Argentina and Paraguay, is the small town of Foz do Iguaçu , one of the most visited spots in the country. That’s because it’s home to the Foz do Iguaçu waterfalls, one of the world’s largest waterfall systems, comprising hundreds of mighty cascades. Venture out onto the wooden platform that juts over the 80m-tall (262ft) Devil’s Throat fall, where mist clouds the bottom on a rainy day. Then marvel at the exotic feathered friends at the bird park, which has several ongoing conservation projects. Other highlights include a trip to the Itaipu Dam, an imposing hydroelectric dam, and quick bus trips over to the border towns of Argentina, and Ciudad del Este in Paraguay, known among savvy shoppers for its cheap and cheerful shopping opportunities.

9. Chapada Diamantina

10. mount roraima.

This imposing mountain swallows up the border with Venezuela, but also stretches out to Guyana and Brazil. Located in the far north of Brazil, it’s remote and hard to get to, which makes it even more appealing to adventurers and hikers. Those who make the effort to go there will enjoy solitude and nature in its rawest form, with untouched rocky landscapes, mind-boggling heights and sweeping views that capture three countries at once. All this without a soul in sight.

11. Lençóis Maranhenses National Park

12. pantanal.

One of the most striking ecosystems in Brazil, the vast Amazon rainforest continues to be an imposing, mysterious jungle, despite deforestation and illegal mining in the area. This complex ecosystem comprises hundreds of species that co-exist in a network unlike any other in the world. Sustainable tours in the region are actually good for the forest, providing an income to resource-lacking locals who come to depend on tourism instead of hunting endangered animals. It also gives you the chance to explore a magnificent part of the world that river dolphins , monkeys and brightly colored tree frogs all call home.

It may not be many people’s first thought of where to go in Brazil, yet that makes it all the more appealing. Manaus is a city in the northwest of Brazil, and sits on the banks of the Negro River. Check out the nearby natural phenomenon known as the “meeting of the waters”, where the dark, nutrient-rich waters of the Negro River flow into the brown, murky waters of the Solimões River, creating one, long stretch that is half black, half brown. Linger by the riverbank at sunset for a wonderful visual treat and explore the elegant Amazon Theatre for a spot of culture.

15. Curitiba

For a country of more than 210m people, it’s easy to forget that Brazil is not all like Rio de Janeiro, and Curitiba is a good reminder of that. Located in the south of the country, Curitiba is hailed as being among the top cities in the world when it comes to urban planning, including examples of sustainable architecture, leafy parks brimming with trees and an efficient recycling system. With its efforts to address homelessness and create organized public transport links, it’s a safe and functioning city in which to sit back and soak up the culture.

Culture Trips launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes places and communities so special.

Our immersive trips , led by Local Insiders, are once-in-a-lifetime experiences and an invitation to travel the world with like-minded explorers. Our Travel Experts are on hand to help you make perfect memories. All our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.?>

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Discover the World

27 Top Tourist Attractions in Brazil

By Kaeylen McCrea · Last updated on May 4, 2024

Sprawling across half of South America, Brazil is the fifth largest country in the world. White-sand beaches, tropical islands, music-filled metropolises and charming colonial towns are dotting its 7,500 km (4,600 miles) long coastline.

Inland, Brazil consist of imposing waterfalls, wetlands filled with wildlife, and the untouched wilderness of the Amazon rainforest where several isolated tribes still live without any contact with the rest of the world.

Brazil, the largest country in Latin America, became a Portuguese colony in 1500, remaining under Portuguese rule for 300 years. Remnants of this heritage can be seen throughout historic colonial cities even today.

Besides these tourist attractions in Brazil, it also has gorgeous beaches, famed for their surfing waves and scenic beauty. Great beaches can be found in the Rio area, while others may be so isolated getting there is an adventure in itself. If you are planning a holiday to this exciting country, here are our recommendations for the best things to do in Brazil.

27. Porto de Galinhas

Porto de Galinhas, or “Port of Chickens,” on the south coast of Pernambuco in the district of Ipojuca, is a beach town home to some of the most famous beaches in Brazil.

A prominent tourist spot, Porto de Galinhas is breathtaking, with natural crystalline-clear pools, thriving reefs, and white-sugared beaches. Right by the town center, Porto de Galinhas Beach’s sands stretch on and on. The section closest to the town is sprinkled with restaurants and bars. Grab refreshing drinks and fill up on food before snorkeling in waters full of tropical fish and tanning in the sun.

The natural pools of Porto de Galinhas are one of the top attractions of Porto de Galinhas. Off the sand strip, these pools are established naturally by the coral reef full of vibrant-colored marine life.

26. Campos do Jordao

Also known as the Switzerland of Brazil, this town is the highest in the country, located more than 1,600 meters (5,300 feet) above sea level in the beautiful Mantiqueira Mountains. Because it sits at such a high elevation, this resort town offers visitors a refreshing escape from Brazil’s heat during the summer months.

Campos do Jordao is probably best known for its Winter Festival, a popular classical musical event held in July that draws musicians from around the world. This town is also a popular draw with active visitors, who can choose from a large variety of things to do, including horseback riding, jeep tours and cable car rides.

25. Lencois Maranhenses National Park

For most people, Brazil conjures up images of stunning beaches and verdant jungles — not sand dunes. But one of its most interesting national parks , Lencois Maranhenses, is home to massive dunes. But this is not the desert. During July, torrential rains actually create gorgeous clear lagoons that can reach depths of 3 meters (10 feet) in some areas.

Interestingly enough, even though these pools are temporary — disappearing during the dry season — there are fish in them. Swimming is allowed and is one of the most popular things to do in Brazil, but visitors should be prepared for warm waters. Temperatures in these pools can be as high as 30 °C (87 °F).

24. Florianopolis Beaches

Also known as Floripa, the 42 beaches of Florianopolis are popular with surfers, partyers and sun worshipers. Arguably, its most popular beach is Joaquina, which boasts huge sand dunes and excellent waves. Though as of late, its neighbor Praia Mole has been stealing some of Joaquina’s thunder.

Travelers who like to hangout with the rich and famous should head to Jurere, which boasts huge homes and some of the best night clubs in the area. For those seeking a little solitude, Lagoinha do Leste is the beach they’ll want to visit. One caveat, this beach requires about a two-hour hike to reach it.

23. Praia de Pipa

Blessed with postcard-worthy beaches, tall cliffs and clear waters, Praia de Pipa has become one of Brazil’s best-known beach destinations and is a favorite with both locals and tourists. The town is also known for its vibrant nightlife and offers visitors a slew of activities, including boating and surfing.

But as popular as it is, the town, itself, is limited in size as it is surrounded by Environmental Protected Areas. That means that visitors can still enjoy the natural beauty of this area and swim in waters that are teeming with dolphins and turtles.

22. Museu de Arte Contemporanea

Museu de Arte Contemporânea de Niterói (MAC), or Niterói Contemporary Art Museum, is well-known for its peculiar architecture, similar to an alien spaceship, that draws in visitors from across the globe.

One of the featured landmarks of the city of Niterói, near Rio de Janeiro, the museum’s unique structure was designed by famous Brazilian modernist architect Oscar Niemeyer. The architect, Niemeyer, was one of the main leaders of the Brazilian modernist movement, with Museu de Arte Contemporânea de Niterói being one of his more well-known works.

The museum’s location features breathtaking viewpoints of Guanabara Bay, and inside the museum are panoramic views of the bay, Ripe de Janeiro, and Sugar Loaf Mountain. Visitors will also find a diverse array of contemporary art pieces on display to view.

Buzios, or Armação dos Búzios, is a beach town well-loved by locals and tourists. The town’s warm and dry climate, beautiful beaches, and turquoise waters make for a perfect getaway destination.

Northeast of Rio de Janeiro, Buzios is home to many stunning beaches to pick and choose from. You can easily spend more than a few days taking in the appealing tropical weather of Buzios, lingering on the beaches, and soaking up the sun of Brazil’s Costa do Sol.

Within Rua das Pedras, the heart of Buzios, are cobblestone streets, boutique shops, restaurants, cafes, and trendy nightclubs popping with activity during the night. Walk down the Orla Bardot Boardwalk, connecting Rua das Pedras to Armacao Beach, for a romantic dinner stroll while peering at the famous statues designed by Christina Motta.

20. Aparados da Serra National Park

One of Brazil’s first national parks, Aparados da Serra was created to protect Itaimbezinho, one of the most impressive canyons in Brazil. Fringed with subtropical forest, the narrow canyon features sheer parallel escarpments with a depth of almost 720 meters (2360 feet).

Two waterfalls cascade into a stone plunge pool that spills over into the Rio do Boi, which winds its narrow way along the canyon bottom. A steep rocky path leads to river from the canyon rim, but it’s a tough, hair-raising walk that shouldn’t be undertaken lightly.

19. Cathedral of Brasilia

A Roman Catholic church in the capital of Brazil, the Cathedral of Brasilia, acts as the seat of the Archdiocese of Brasilia. Another enigmatic design by famous Brazilian architect Oscar Niemeyer, the cathedral was completed in 1970, showcasing a crown-like structure and a stunning stained glass ceiling.

At the entrance of the Cathedral of Brasilia are four impressive bronze sculptures. These sculptures stand nearly ten feet tall, representing the four Evangelists: Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John.

Within the cathedral’s interior are three angel sculptures that hang above the congregation, ranging from 7 to 14 feet tall. The altar within the Cathedral of Brasilia was donated by Pope Paul VI, and the four bells in the bell tower by Spain.

Touring the Cathedral of Brasilia is a popular activity to admire modern architecture and design with its undeniably remarkable appeal.

18. Pelourinho

A historic neighborhood in western Salvador, Bahia, the Pelourinho acted as the city’s center during the colonial period. It operated as a slave market until slavery was outlawed in 1835.

Nowadays, Pelourinho is a prosperous hub spot full of culture, history, and opportunities to explore colonial architecture.

There are more than a few noteworthy tourist attractions in Pelourinho. First, visit Igreja de São Francisco, an early 18th-century church established in the High Baroque style. The interior is gilded with intricate artwork that inspires awe, along with the gold-covered ceilings.

Then, watch a live capoeira performance. Capoeira is an Afro-Brazilian martial art intertwining music, acrobatics, dance, and spirituality, performed with traditional Brazilian songs and instruments. Seeing the dazzling displays of spins and kicks is a mesmerizing experience, and a peek into Afro-Brazilian history.

And these are only some of the popular activities and attractions of Pelourinho’s rich culture and history waiting to be explored!

17. Ilha Grande

An island located between Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, Ilha Grande is a beautiful and popular weekend getaway destination.

Full of luscious forest trails for hiking, clear water for swimming, and white-sugared beaches for relaxing, it’s not hard to lose track of time vacationing in Ilha Grande.

Once upon a time, the island was used as a state prison, a leper colony, and the ideal pirate refuge. Nowadays, Ilha Grande is a flawless vacation spot for locals and tourists looking to get away, relax, and some things to do in the outdoors.

Take a hike to Lopes Mendes Beach, one of Brazil’s most frequently ranked top beaches. Its endless coastline, serene atmosphere, and crystal-clear water exude a peaceful vibe that is easy to sink into. Ilha Grande has more than a few hikes available for the avid adventurer.

Hike near Vila de Abraao, passing the old prison that housed political prisoners, or hike to the island’s highest point, Pico de Papagayo, for a challenge.

16. Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park

Found centrally in Goias, with access points from Sao Jorge and Alto Paraiso, Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park is situated above an ancient plateau aged at an impressive two billion years.

Throughout the national park are cascading waterfalls, dipping valleys, and steep canyons. The hikes make for a rewarding excursion. For example, the Cachoeira Macaquinhos, or Little Monkey Waterfall, the trail is less than a three-mile hike. It is beginner-friendly, offering up views of emerald-dipped pools poured into by rushing waterfalls.

Check out Vale da Lua in Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park. This unusual rock formation was created by millennia of erosion and is one of the park’s top attractions. Then, take pictures at the famous window frame-like landmark, Mirante de Janela, with sensational background views of Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park.

15. Jericoacoara

A small fishing village transformed into a popping beach resort site, Jericoacoara, also known as Jijoca or Jeri, is one of those utopia vacation spots where you end up extending your trip to stay longer.

In Ceara, west of Fortaleza, Jericoacoara is a popular spot for windsurfing, kitesurfing, surfing, swimming, and backpacking. The streets are paved with sand instead of cement—the beach’s undeveloped coastlines, packed with sand dunes, stretching beyond sight.

Visit Jericoacoara National Park, which features Lagoa do Paraiso, a stunning turquoise lagoon with nearby hammocks to sway and relax in and bars to enjoy refreshments. Order fresh lobster, oysters, and other seafood dishes from local restaurants. Once nighttime hits Jericoacoara, join locals and fellow tourists at the numerous clubs and bars where live music serenades through the night.

14. Curitiba-Paranagua Train Ride

The most famous railway in Brazil, the Serra Verde Express, is where visitors can hop on a Curitiba-Paranagua Train Ride through southwestern Brazil.

The Belgium-French company Chemin de Fer Bresilien established the Curitiba-Paranagua Railway to gain access to the port of Paranagua. The railway line took five years to construct, an engineering masterpiece of the 19th century.

On this famous scenic ride, passengers can see glorious landscapes as the train passes through thriving forests, up steep mountain slopes, along lengthy rivers, and past sparkling lakes. Then, look out of Veu de Noiva Waterfall, cascading over a steep rock formation for a stunning image said to fall over the stones like a “bride’s veil”.

A small, charming town between Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, Paraty is situated at a scenic location featuring mountain backdrops, historic landmarks, and a waterfront setting.

Previously a bustling port during the Brazilian Gold Rush, the town has quickly become a favored tourist spot thanks to its natural appeal, Portuguese colonial architecture, and diverse activity options.

However, its cobblestoned streets are a step back in time, presenting only a piece of Paraty’s heritage. Stroll through Matriz Square, past white-painted houses with colorful doors and window frames, to Santa Rita church to bask in local history, culture, and architecture.

Complete the rewarding Mamangua Sugarloaf Peak Hike to the top of Mamangua Peak. Here, you’ll see the world’s only tropical fjord, the Saco do Mamangua. Kayak through Paraty’s mangroves, beaches, and coves, to witness the natural wonders of Paraty that draw in visitors from across the globe.

12. Copacabana

Located in Rio, Copacabana is one of the world’s most well-known beaches. It is approximately two miles long and lined with hotels and expensive homes, though there are also much more modest residences scattered in between. A beautiful boardwalk with a black-and-white checked pattern of Portuguese stone flanks the sand.

This is a very vibrant neighborhood that is home to Rio’s famous New Year’s celebration and several interesting tourist attractions, including the Copacabana Fort, which was constructed in 1914, and the glamorous Hotel Copacabana Palace.

11. Ouro Preto

Ouro Preto is a historic colonial town in the Serra do Espinhaco mountains, north of Rio de Janeiro, featuring baroque architecture and cobbled streets.

Founded at the end of the 17th century, the town played a crucial role in Brazil’s late 17th century Gold Rush, quickly becoming one of the richest and biggest towns . It was also the birthplace of Brazil’s most noteworthy artist and sculptor, Aleijadinho. Many of Aleijadinho’s masterpieces can be seen speckled throughout the city, plus a collection of sculptures in the Museum of Aleijadinho.

Outside Ouro Preto is the world’s largest gold mine open to the public, found in Mariana. Guided tours take visitors through the gold mine on an old cable car while exploring the history of the mine. And throughout the town of Ouro Preto are many spectacularly designed churches featuring intricate design and architecture. Many of these churches were embellished with native gold.

10. Teatro Amazonas

Teatro Amazonas or Amazon Theatre is an opera house located in Manaus , in the heart of the Amazon Rainforest.

It was built during the heyday of rubber trade using materials from all over the world, with furniture from Paris, marble from Italy, and steel from England. On the outside of the building, the dome was covered with 36,000 decorated ceramic tiles painted in the colors of the Brazilian national flag.

The first performance was given on January 7, 1897, with the Italian opera La Gioconda. The opera house was closed down soon after however as the rubber trade declined and Manaus lost its main source of income. There wasn’t a single performance in Teatro Amazonas for 90 years until 1990 when it reopened its doors.

9. Fernando de Noronha

Fernando de Noronha is a beautiful archipelago with pristine beaches, landscapes and wildlife, situated 354 km (220 miles) off the northeastern coast in Brazil. The archipelago was discovered by Amerigo Vespucci in 1503 and temporarily occupied by the Dutch and French before Portugal established dominion in 1737.

Today only the largest of the 21 islands is inhabited with a population of about 3,500. The islands are a Mecca for divers and snorkelers with warm waters year-round and very good visibility even at depths of 50 meters.

Established in the Bodoquena Sierra, in Mato Grosso do Sul, Bonito is a quaint town and prevalent ecotourism hub.

Crystalline waterways and prosperous forests surround Bonito. One of the biggest attractions of Bonito is Rio de Prata, or Silver River. The river’s aquamarine water brims with friendly fish, making it an excellent snorkeling spot.

Another is the Gruta do Lago Azul, or Blue Lake Grotto. The grotto is an otherworldly underwater cave filled with blue water. Scuba diving, swimming, and snorkeling are popular at the grotto; if you’re lucky, you might discover fossils of ancient prehistoric animals!

Within Bonito is Aquario de Natural, a marine preserve that is only a short trek through the jungle. Swimming, snorkeling, and glass-bottomed boat tours are popular here for a memorable adventure through the clear waters full of vibrant-colored fish lazily swimming about.

7. Historic Center of Olinda

On the northeastern coast of Brazil in Pernambuco, north of Recife, is the historic city of Olinda. The city was founded in the 16th century and is considered one of the best-preserved colonial cities in Brazil .

The Historic Center of Olinda is teeming with architecturally stunning buildings surrounded by rich vegetation and oceanside backsplashes. The city’s history is linked to the sugarcane industry, the historic center presenting the nourishment of wealth that inspired its economy to boom in the 16th century. The Catedral Alto da Se, a former Jesuit church, is the perfect example of Olinda’s appealing architecture and prosperous history.

Walking through the Historic Center of Olinda is a journey through Brazil’s history, surrounded by monuments, churches, and houses that date back centuries.

6. Salvador Beaches

In the northeast region of Brazil is Salvador, the capital of Bahia, home to some of the best beaches in Brazil.

Praia Itapua is a fine white-sanded beach, palm frond, and coconut tree-speckled paradise. The beach is near the notoriously artistic and culturally rich neighborhood of Itapua. The nearby venues have an eclectic and bohemian vibe paired with entertaining live music and tasty food options, like “acaraje”, a spicy fried-bean dish.

Join the locals at Boa Viagem, a beach strip flanked by beachfront bars, nightclubs, seafood restaurants, and a boardwalk perfect for strolling along the beach. Coral reefs protect the shallow waters of Boa Viagem, which is ideal for families to take their kids for a beach day.

The beach options are endless in Salvador!

5. Pantanal

The world’s largest flooded grasslands and largest tropical wetland area, most of the Pantanal lies within Mato Grosso do Sul, with some of it extending into Paraguay and Bolivia.

Larger than 29 U.S. states and nearly nine European countries, these wetlands are a fantastical wonderland of nature’s beauty. This refuge for wildlife is home to about 10 million caimans and just as many jaguars that hunt caimans in the Pantanal. You can also find the largest parrot in the world here, the hyacinth macaw.

These are only some of the astonishing animals in the Pantanal, drawing in millions of tourists annually to catch sight of the numerous awe-inspiring species living here, including toucans and capybaras.

From horseback to canoe, there are numerous methods to adventuring the glorious commodity of the Pantanal!

4. Rio Carnival

There are carnival celebrations in virtually every corner of Brazil, the best-known ones taking place in Recife together with the neighboring Olinda and Salvador. But the biggest and most famous carnival is undoubtedly the Carnival in Rio de Janeiro. The Rio Carnival attracts two million people per day on the streets and almost half a million foreigners during its 4 day celebration.

The Carnival is all over the place, in the streets and squares, bars, clubs and all other venues in Rio, concluding in the spectacular Rio Samba Parade at the Sambadrome.

3. Amazon River

The largest river in the world by water volume, the Amazon River traverses nine South American countries, including Brazil, Ecuador, Peru, and Venezuela.

Nurturing the largest rainforest on earth, this mighty river is still widely unexplored, hiding discoveries and opportunities. In northwestern Brazil lies Manaus, the only city in the Amazon Rainforest that boasts a population of over one million people.

People travel from all over the world to Manaus to get a chance to explore, whether it be on a one-of-a-kind Amazon river tour or a backpacking adventure through its lush Amazonian jungles. Through these experiences, you can get the unique chance to see sloths, toucans, macaws, and the boto, the phenomenal pink-ish colored river dolphin.

2. Iguacu Falls

One of the great natural wonders of the world, Iguaçu Falls is situated on the border between Brazil and Argentina . The waterfall system consists of 275 falls along the Iguazu River. The most impressive of them all is the Devil’s Throat a U-shaped with a height of 82 meter (269 ft).

The falls can be reached from the cities Foz do Iguaçu in Brazil and Puerto Iguazú in Argentina, as well as from Ciudad del Este in Paraguay. On the Brazilian side there is a long walkway along the canyon with an extension to the lower base of the Devil’s Throat.

1. Christ the Redeemer

An iconic landmark welcoming visitors to Rio de Janeiro , the Christ the Redeemer statue was labeled one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007.

One of the most visited and well-known tourist attractions in Brazil, the statue was established more than 90 years ago. It is the largest Art Deco statue in the world and, shockingly, only the fourth tallest statue of Jesus Christ in the world.

The cultural icon has become a global symbol, attracting millions of believers and non-believers alike to see the Christ the Redeemer statue in person as it overlooks Rio de Janeiro atop Corcovado Mountain.

Map of Tourist Attractions in Brazil

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Reader interactions.

February 2, 2021 at 9:07 am

Just spent some time in Brazil from 12/27/2020 to 01/11/2021 . I stayed between Copacabana and Búzios RJ and I can tell you. 6 months would not be enough to get to know all these places mentioned on this article. You might be able to visit but not to get the spirit of some locations, villages or towns. My next trip going to be to Salvador or Santa Catarina.

February 12, 2017 at 8:14 pm

Just visit praia dos Carneiros, the best place in Brazil.

January 31, 2017 at 1:23 pm

And we can put so many places into this list! Chapada Diamantina in Bahia State is, for me, a must-go-place for everyone in Brazil. Also the Chapada de Veadeiros in Goias State must be into the list, a paradise in the middle of brazilian savannah, UNESCO whs. The new touristic fisherman villages are also an amazing destination: Canoa Quebrada, Genipabu, Dunas de Rosado, Caraivas… Sure we need a ”Top100” for this country.

November 22, 2016 at 2:31 am

Its amazing to think about the scenery of top tourist places. I am coming to Brazil in the first week of December, 2016. But I am afraid of whether I would get any time to see all the interesting places as I like due to time constraint. Even that I should try to travel as much as I can during my stay in Brazil.

January 5, 2015 at 6:16 am

Visit Curitiba, the best city in Brazil.

May 25, 2014 at 8:50 am

awesome places

January 14, 2014 at 2:18 am

Beautiful sceneries! I am coming to Brazil soon. However, u will be amazed with what Uganda, the pearl of African possess!

November 19, 2013 at 6:44 am

Nice website 🙂

In my opinion, as a Brazilian who loves to travel, the best places in Brazil are: Bonito (MS), Jericoacara (CE), Abrolhos (BA), Arraial do Cabo ( RJ), Búzios (RJ), Praia do Forte (BA), São Miguel dos Milagres (AL), Pipa (RN), Chapada Diamantina (BA), Gramado (RS), Florianópolis (SC) and Rio de Janeiro (RJ).

August 19, 2013 at 8:59 am

Brazil is very lovely. i would love to go and meet people and see all the places

August 19, 2013 at 6:11 am

The Pantanal is amazing. check out Pantanal Ranch Meia Lua – It’s in Miranda, a wonderful ranch to use as a basis for your travel into the Pantanal.

August 1, 2013 at 2:15 am

its most wonderful place I would like to go to brazil I want attraction site of it

July 30, 2013 at 12:05 pm

Very good your list, I am Brazilian and agree to the destinations mentioned here.

July 19, 2013 at 2:29 am

brazil is certainly an astonishing & breathtaking place to visit.My visit was a memorable 7 once in a blue moon one.Hats off to brazil!!!!!!!!!!

April 28, 2013 at 6:37 pm

Brazil is such a beautiful country 🙂 can’t wait to go these pictures are amazing

April 28, 2013 at 11:57 am

this is reeealy goood ooh when am i gonna get the chance to go to a place like this!

April 20, 2013 at 7:02 am

where are the pictures of Ceará? yes there is very beautiful

March 8, 2013 at 1:14 pm

i have travelled every where and i think u should really go to brazil

March 8, 2013 at 7:29 am

i really want to go to brazill because it looks sooo sexy

December 10, 2012 at 3:23 pm

i want to go to brazil soooooooo bad and this makesme want to go even more.

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10 Most Exciting and Best Places to Visit in Brazil

Do you want to uncover the exquisite beauty of the Tropics? Then t ravel to Brazil to discover its unique vibe, that makes it stand out from other Latin American nations, and succumb to the beauty of the New World.

Let your travels to Brazil be a new beginning. Latin America’s largest nation spans a myriad of diverse climates and cultures, offering at the same time a chance to see unique natural marvels such as its vast pristine beaches, ferocious waterfalls, sand dunes stretching beyond the horizon, and majestic rivers. 

Explore Brazil with our curated list of the top ten best places to visit in Brazil you should not miss.

1. Rio de Janeiro

Brazil’s former capital is where its soul dwells. The city of Cariocas is known for its laid-back and hospitable people, scenic urban landscape, and unrivaled beaches right downtown such as Copacabana, Ipanema, and Leblon. 

Travel to Rio to take pleasure in the wide avenues and warm sands of Copacabana, one of the best places to visit in Brazil to socialize with locals; or bask in the sunshine in the cosmopolitan Ipanema a short stroll away from the always bustling Copa. Leblon is a must for those who are keen to experience the inclusive friendly atmosphere of the city, with its carnivalesque vibe all year round, especially prized by arguably one of the world’s largest gay communities. 

If it is not just sand and breaking waves that make you happy, head to Lapa. This is one of the best places to visit in Brazil to delight in jazz music with possibly Latin America’s best jazz bars, and its world-famous Escadaria Selaron, a set of world-famous steps made by Jorge Selaron whose work, seen a bit wacky at first, ended up becoming one of Rio’s top landmarks. 

Other sites to visit in Lapa include its delicious restaurants and a splendid aqueduct, which along with Jesus, on the Corcovado mountain, and the famed somewhat unsafe but super photogenic favelas, such as Vidigal, make the top of the best places to visit in Brazil.

Those keen to uncover the true spirit of Rio must give in to the magic of football. Headfirst to Botafogo Beach, where football is played even at night (don’t forget to climb Sugar Loaf, suitably near, for a perfect walk through the mont’s lush greenery and truly gobsmacking vistas), and go to a weekend football game at the iconic Maracana Stadium, the arena where Pele himself was scoring goals. 

Note that the best time to visit Rio de Janeiro is in February when the legendary Rio de Janeiro carnival takes place. But avoid it like the plague if crowds and busy festivals are not your cup of tea. 

For inspiration, one of the best books to read on a trip to Brazil is Brazil by Jonathan Updike, a magic realist love story set in Rio, Sao Paulo, and the Brazilian jungle wilderness.

Read next: A week in Rio for 100€

2. Trancoso

Large cities such as Rio are fascinating: they have something for everyone, but their hustle and bustle can be tiring at times. If a bit fatigued, head to a veritable tropical idyll, Trancoso, located in the northern state of Bahia, the heart of Black Brazil. Trancoso is renowned for its capoeira, caipirinha, and unique cults some of whose rites were brought by the ancestors of Black Brazilians from Africa. 

Trancoso is arguably the best place to visit in Bahia to laze about on the beach and chill. It is quiet, safe, affordable, and truly paradisiac. It has a vast stretch of white sand, cozy bars, friendly locals, and its environs feature one of Brazil’s most beautiful churches. Also don’t miss out on the chance to book accommodation at an authentic Bahia bungalow located right on the main square. 

3. Porto Seguro

Pay a visit to Porto Seguro, a great place to rest on the road from Rio de Janeiro to Salvador de Bahia.

Located just a short car ride away from Trancoso, Porto Seguro is a great place to explore Bahia. It is situated close to both pristine beaches of Trancoso and Brazil’s first capital, Salvador. But, primarily, it is known as the place where the Portuguese first landed in what was to become Brazil. The spot is marked by one of Brazil’s oldest churches, one of the best places to visit in Brazil to uncover its past.

On the other hand, Porto Seguro is located just a half an hour’s drive from Pataxó, where the remaining Native Indians of the region accept visitors to learn about their culture. 

4. Morro de São Paulo

Head to Morro de Sao Paulo to take a break from the crowded Brazilian metropolises and take delight in its communion with nature.

Lying off the coast of Bahia and a two hours’ ferry ride from Salvador, is Tinhare Island. Its capital is one of the best places to visit in Brazil. It is here that the distinctive village Morro de São Paulo is situated. 

Sitting on its north-eastern tip, the car and carefree village is prized for its climate, traditional means of transport such as animal-drawn carriages and palm-fringed beaches. Among them, do not miss First Beach, frequented for its strong surf, and Second Beach, dotted with mouth-watering food establishments. 

Apart from the stunning landscape, and great swimming opportunities, Morro de São Paulo is also home to some significant historical landmarks such as the Fortress of Tapirandu, one of the best places to visit in Brazil to uncover its colonial past or the Church of Our Lady of Light, famous for its intricate altar made of wood. 

5. Salvador de Bahia

Brazil’s first capital, Salvador is dubbed the city of 365 churches, one church per day of the year. Its abundant wealth of historical landmarks, picture-perfect nature, and kinetic nightlife, seducing with its Capoeira, and trans-inducing drum-beat, make it one of the best places to visit in Brazil. 

Head to Salvador if the modernity of Rio and Sao Paulo is not what your soul has been pining for. Here you can stay in the old colonial downtown, for example on the scenic Rue de Chile, with a mind-blowing port-view, where streets lure you with mesmeric sights, hypnotizing sounds, and strange fragrances – make sure to have your best travel camera on hand at all times. 

One of the reasons why Salvador is by right one of the best places to visit in Brazil is that you can go to a marvelous beach for you to swim right within the city limits, making it one of the best places in Brazil to combine culture-tourism with sun-bathing on a beach. 

6. Florianópolis

Is there a need to go to Rio or São Paulo? The irresistible pull of their nightlife, food & bar sceneries, and phenomenal nature are truly enticing, but it is not just Brazil’s big cities that have it. 

Florianopolis, the surfing paradise in Brazil’s South, is one of the best places to visit in Brazil to go surfing, lazing around on the white sands, attending some of the Americas’ best parties, and eating its delicious food. Plus its juicy churrasco is said to be among the Brazilian South’s best! 

It is also advantageously located close to Porto Allegro, a large city known as the jewel of the Brazilian South, home to the world’s most beautiful street, Rua Gonçalo de Carvalho, otherwise the green tunnel, a 500-meter stretch submerged in foliage. 

7. Lençóis Maranhenses Sand Dunes

Located in Maranhao State, the awe-inspiring sand ridges morph into a thousand blue lagoons running along the Atlantic Coast. They are part of Lencois Maranhenses National Park, one of the most stunning and overall best places to visit in Brazil. 

The majestic sand mounds are nature’s artwork: it is made by two rivers flowing through the natural reserve depositing sediment as they run towards the Atlantic. But it is not just the wash-up that forms the dunes, it is also the winds from the Atlantic that blow inland and carry the sand, co-authoring the oeuvre . 

Note that the capital of Maranhao State is the beautiful and quiescent Sao Louis City, with Bareirinhas, the closest town to the dunes being the best place in the country to visit the magnificent hills of sand. Traveling to Maranhao Natural Park is also a great reason to uncover the North of Brazil, a gateway to one of the world’s largest rainforests, the mighty Amazon.

8. Petropolis

Petropolis is one the best places to visit in Brazil in summer. When it is winter in the northern hemisphere, it is scorching hot in Brazil. The inhabitants of Rio prize Petropolis for its mild climate, stunning architecture, delicious cuisine, and romantic bars & accommodation. 

In their appreciation, they follow in the steps of the Brazilian emperors who made the hill station their summer retreat of choice. It is from them that are left what are arguably Brazil’s most fabulous palaces, such as Petropolis Imperial Palace, currently housing the Imperial Museum, and offering a peek into the state’s opulent imperial past. 

Note that Petropolis is located close to Serra dos Orgaos National Park, one of the best places to visit in Brazil for hiking . 

9. Cataratas do Iguaçu

The Iguazu Falls are considered the largest waterfall in the world. Located amidst the primal Amazonian rainforest, this cascading nature marvel is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Brazil. 

To travel here, head first to Foz do Iguaçu city, a pleasant hub to explore the waterfalls and the surrounding beauty of the state of Parana. From the airport, it is just a 5-minute drive to the Brazilian side of the falls. 

Argentina and Paraguay are just over the border, making the falls one of the best places to visit the two countries from Brazil. Note that the best time to visit the Iguazu falls is between late March to May. 

10. Fortaleza

Fortaleza is one of the best places to visit in Brazil to see for yourself its booming night scenery, taste its delicious food and bask in the sun on its sun-lit beaches punctuated by red cliffs, lagoons, rustling palm trees, and highly surfable waves.

Keep in mind that it is not just the memorable modern cityscape or the enthralling nature riches that lure. So are the attractions of Fortaleza, such as the performances at the Art Nouveau José de Alencar Theater and the neo-Gothic church architecture of the Metropolitan Cathedral, which draw visitors to Fortaleza, one of the jewels of northern Brazil.

Brazil is a great country to visit and enjoy the tender caress of the sea, the relaxing whisper of palm trees, and the pleasant urban landscape, sometimes colonial and other times ultra-modern.

It is also a great destination to enjoy the company of the hospitable locals, and the perfect one to explore on a road trip !

All this well paired by cachaça, caipirinhas, and churrasco while listening to the melodies of the Brazilian rumba or witnessing a fierce Capoeira dance. Enjoy!

Ultimate Guide to Planning a Perfect Trip to Brazil: Expert Tips from a Local!

April 10, 2023

Paula Martinelli

If you are planning a dream trip to Brazil, this is your one-stop guide! Here you will find all you need to know to plan a safe trip to Brazil , plus all the useful tips prepared by a Brazileira ;-).

When you think about Brazil, what comes to  your  mind? Carnaval…Rio de Janeiro…Samba…Soccer (Futebol)…Beaches…Amazon forest? Most people have some association with Brazil from popular culture. I am here to EXPAND on those associations so that you can get to know this amazing country, diverse culture, and incredible people.

Join me as I take you beyond the usual associations with Brazil from popular culture, and delve into the rich history, culture, and people that make this country truly unique. With stunning landscapes, mouthwatering cuisine, and a blend of Portuguese, African, European, and Brazilian influences, Brazil has something for everyone.

Don’t miss out on experiencing the beauty and excitement of Brazil like a local. Let this guide be your go-to resource for planning the perfect trip to Brazil, tailor-made just for you. Get ready to create memories that will last a lifetime in this extraordinary destination!

Why you Should Travel to Brazil

Well, amigo, let me start by saying why you should travel to Brazil. Brazil is one of the most awe-inspiring places to visit on the Planet, and I really mean it.

Visit the natural beauty of the falls at Iguaçu, meet the locals at the Copacabana beach, see one of the Seven Wonders of the New World, Christ the Redeemer, learn how to dance the samba, enjoy a barbecue, and cool off with a caipirinha and be able to cruise around some of the largest jungles in the planet, Pantanal and Amazon.

Brazil offers it all for any travel style –  from solo travelers to a family vacation trip of a lifetime, to adventure travelers, to one of the best routes to backpack in South America . 

Brazil is a very vast country, and because of its size, it is impossible to travel around and get to visit many places on your first trip. You will need good planning and longer than a week to visit 1-2 States.

Brazil Travel Tips Essentials

LANGUAGE:  The official language in Brazil is Portuguese. English and Spanish are not widely spoken.

CURRENCY:  The currency in Brazil is the Brazilian Real, and the U.S. Dollar is not accepted. Check here  for the latest conversion rate.

TIPPING: It is not customary to tip in Brazil

CREDIT CARD & ATMs:  A credit card is widely accepted in Brazil. ATMs can be easily found in commercial areas, but they may be closed at night for security reasons.

PLUGS: In Brazil, the power plugs are type N, the standard voltage is 127 / 220 V, and the standard frequency is 60 Hz. I recommend buying a  universal adapter  and using a  converter  for hair dryers. 

WI-FI IN BRAZIL: You can get Wi-Fi service in Brazil pretty much everywhere (unless you are planning to visit some remote areas). Normally the hotels, restaurants and shopping malls offer free internet service.

CELL PHONE: Your international cell phone will work in Brazil. However, to avoid high international calling charges, you’ll want to pick up a local SIM card and get a local calling plan. You can buy these at street-corner kiosks (called bancas) and some supermarkets.

HUAWEI E5577s-321 Mobile WiFi Router

I recommend buying this WiFi router. You can insert any SIM card around the world, and it shares data across all your devices, up to 10, via WiFi and the battery lasts up to 12 hours.

Brazil Travel Planning: Orientation & Map

Brazil is the largest country in South America and the 5th largest country in the world, with a population of 212 million people (2.75% of the total world population). 

Brazil might be the largest country most of the world doesn’t know a whole lot about. Brazil’s economy ranks 1st in South America,  2nd in the Americas, and 8th in the world.

Although Brazil covers an area equal to 88% of the US and therefore is  almost  as large, being the size of the US without Alaska .

The coastline of Brazil measures 7,491 km, which makes it the 16th longest national coastline in the world. Throughout the coastal areas, geographical features can be found like islands, reefs, and bays.

What is the Visa Requirement to Travel to Brazil?

You need a valid passport for at least 6-months from the date of entry is required by all nationals referred below.

A visa to Travel to Brazil is not required by all nationals of EU countries for stays of up to 90-days. A Visa to travel to Brazil is required by nationals of Australia, Canada, and the USA.

Visa-Free Entry to stay up to 90 days for American, Canadian, Japanese, and Australian passport holders. Consult this website for more visa requirements.

What are the best Flights options to Brazil?

There are numerous options for flights to Brazil and many gateways in the US and Canada.

Direct flights leave from:  Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, Newark, New York, Orlando, Washington, and Toronto.

TAM is the only Brazilian carrier serving the US at present, while the North American airlines are American, Air Canada, Continental, Delta, and United.

Most flights go to either Rio  or  São Paulo.  If your ultimate destination is somewhere other than these cities, it is usually best to connect in Rio or São Paulo.

What are the Best Places to Visit in Brazil?

When talking about visiting Brazil, everyone seems to gravitate to either  Rio de Janeiro ,  Iguaçu Falls,  or the  Amazon .

I regret to say that those places are very far distance from each other. Therefore, if you have only 2-week to visit Brazil you would need to pick one destination over another. You can see some ideas of the Best Brazil Route here . 

Just take a quick glance at a map to figure this out, I have picked my top 10 places to visit in Brazil and pinned the map to help to give a better perspective of each location:

• SÃO PAULO (São Paulo State)  – Largest city, very metropolitan and cultural, great cuisine
• RIO DE JANEIRO (Rio de Janeiro State)  – Second largest city, amazing natural beauty, and beaches
• PARATY (Rio de Janeiro State)  – 4 hours driving from Rio, Brazilian imperial town by the ocean
• ANGRA DOS REIS (Rio de Janeiro State): The most beautiful coastline in Brazil with over 2,000 beaches to choose from
• CURITIBA (Paraná State)  – Large city praised with one of the world’s best models of  urban planning
• FLORIANÓPOLIS (Santa Catarina State)  – Island in the South with perfect beaches and excellent surfing
• PANTANAL (Mato Grosso & Mato Grosso do Sul State)  – The world’s largest inland wetland area, one of the best to spot animals
• AMAZON FOREST (Amazonas State) – The largest tropical rainforest in the world
• JALAPÃO (Tocantins)  –  Large variety of landscapes including sand dunes, rivers, waterfalls, and Savana
• NATAL (Rio Grande do Norte State)  -Stunning beaches, white sand dunes, and rich diverse culture.

Plan Well Your Itinerary in Brazil

Remember that pre-planning, researching, and understanding what you are looking for will help make your travels far more successful and safe. I have spent years of my life living and traveling around Brazil and these articles will be extremely helpful with tons of Brazil Travel Tips for you:

• 10 Best Backpacking Routes in South America
• 15 Amazing day trip from Sao Paulo
• 21 Amazing Facts about Rio de Janeiro
• Rio de Janeiro Itinerary
• Sao Paulo Itinerary
• Jalapao, Brazil Itinerary
• Angra dos Reis Itinerary
• Petropolis Itinerary
• Paraty itinerary
• Bonito Itinerary

How much does a Trip to Brazil Cost?

Brazil is one of the most expensive countries to visit in South America, but because of the exchange rate, when converted, prices are still very affordable.

The best time to travel to Brazil on a budget is in the off-season. If you travel outside of Christmas or Carnival, flying to Brazil can be quite affordable.

Check the average trip to Brazil cost below – Per day for 2 people – Based on 4 stars hotel, eating all meals at the restaurant, renting a car – Of course, it can be less, it will depend on your travel style:

Average Prices per Day/ 2 People

Planning a trip to brazil: transportation & getting around.

If you are visiting more than one state, I recommend flying instead of traveling by bus or car. The distances are long, and flying will save you time and allow you to visit more locations in less time.

You can get a 15% off your rental car when you book through this site . I use and recommend RentalCar because it is the most reliable rental car source, and it allows you to compare the prices of different places.

Planning a Trip to Brazil: Accommodations

Prices and options will vary a lot, depending on what area of Brazil you are visiting and what time of the year you are visiting. But the good news is that because of the exchange rate, the prices will be very affordable when converted.

I have selected 3 options for the most popular accommodation options in Brazil, and I recommend booking using Booking.com   because it is a reliable source and also, there is free cancelation policy:

The capital of Nepal is a typical busy city, with pollution and traffic. But still, a fascinating place to visit including the Boudha Stupa, Asan Market, and Swayambhunath.

What is the Best time to Visit Brazil?

Brazil is one of the few destinations on Earth that is warm year-round. Because of its tropical landscapes, there are several climatic extremes, though none of which are too extreme to deter travelers.

Winter in Brazil lasts from May to September . No matter where in Brazil you are visiting, temperatures won’t drop below 60 F. It’s one of the best times to go sightseeing and hiking in cities like Rio, thanks to plenty of sunshine and cooler temps.

During the spring and summer (November to March) , temperatures can get up to 120 F so be sure to stack on a whole lot of sunscreen and prepare for some humidity.

Around February and March is when it happens the largest party on the Planet: Carnival!

What is the Weather in Brazil?

The summer months are from December to March and winter is from June to September

Because of the size of Brazil, the country is broken into different climate areas. Check here for the weather in Brazil.

• The south of Brazil is the coldest part, with winters that can even be seeing some snowflakes.
• The North of Brazil , where you can find the Amazon forest, is always hot with temperatures climbing up to 100F (40C).
• The coastal areas in Brazil – If you are visiting the coastal areas, the weather is warm most of the year, with temperatures higher than 77F (25C).

Planning a Trip to Brazil: Safety

Let’s start with a million-dollar question. Every time I engage in a conversation with someone, I am asked this question: “Is it safe to travel to Brazil?”

Safety is a big concern for Brazilians. Drug gangs control certain territories, police corruption is not uncommon, and if you are not aware, you could become a victim of theft or pickpocketing.

With that being said, Brazil is not a dangerous place, and every year millions of people visit Brazil and it is not a reason you should avoid a trip to Brazil, just follow some basics suggested safety tips:

Backpack Travel Anti Theft with USB Charging Port

To keep your belongings safe during your travels, I recommend this anti-theft backpack. The hidden theft-proof pocket designed on the back sits up against the wearer’s body. Anti-Pickpocket back pocket is difficult to steal personal items. It fits my 15.6” laptop with a bit to spare.

What is the food in Brazil?

Maybe you are already family with the Brazilian steakhouse. Yes, steak is very popular in Brazil, it seems that every weekend you will have at least 2 invites for a  churrasco  (barbecue) at your family or friend’s house. 

A  churrasco   usually includes sausages and several different cuts of meat, grilled over hardwood charcoal, sliced to bite-size pieces, and eaten hot off the cutting board.

In addition to  churrasco , there are many other delicious Brazilian foods to experiment with:

• Açai:  Antioxidant super fruit gaining popularity outside of Brazil – açaí bowls are very popular
• Pão de Queijo:  They are getting very popular in the US, they are the heaven version of cheese bread.
• Cachorro Quente:  It is the Brazilian version of hot dog, it is another level
• Moqueca:  Anyone who tries it, falls in love. Fresh fish cooked in coconut milk
• Brazilian Pizza:  My vote goes to the Brazilian pizza. Want to know the difference between Brazilian and American pizza?
• Feijoada:  Brazilian comfort food, which is a slow-cooked black bean, beef, and pork stew served with rice – a truly must try the traditional dish, that every time I cook it and invite my friends to try, they leave asking me for the secret recipe.
• Brigadeiro:  Sweet like a bonbon and extremely scrumptious and delicious
• Creme de papaya:  a perfect ending to a big meal, papaya helps digestion.
• Caipirinha:  It is the Bazilian popular drink. Strong is the definition, made by sugar cane, sugar, lime, and ice.
• Guaraná:  the Brazilian soda – loaded with caffeine from the guaraná plant

What to Pack for a Trip to Brazil?

I recommend packing light, and if you forget anything, buy it there. Brazil makes very good quality clothes and shoes and the prices are really good.

The packing will depend on what area of Brazil you are planning to visit, and what time of the year. But in general comfortable, light and colorful clothes are the best option. Some MUST PACK items are:

• Colorful casual clothing: tank top, t-shirts, shorts, skirts,
• Summer dresses
• A pair of jean
• Shawal – is always a great item for the cooler evening
• A light rain jacket
• a pair of Havaianas
• Bikini/ bathing suit
• Hat, sunblock, sunglasses
• Dress shoes/ sandals – to go out at night
• Long sleeve shirt/ nice dress – to go out at night
• 1 pair of sneakers
• LifeStraw water bottle with a purifier
• socks/ underwear
• A day backpack
• Universal charger/ adaptor

PACK SMART ALERT!

If you are planning to carry a backpack for your trip to Brazil, I have compiled a very detailed review of the Best Backpacks for Travel in the market today – Also, it doesn’t matter if it is summer or winter, it is always smart to carry a jacket with you, so check my complete review guide on the Top Jackets for Travel and pack smart!

Pack Light & Smart when you Travel to Brazil

Here is one of the most important Brazil travel tips to keep in mind. I recommend packing in a backpack if you are planning to travel around Brazil. Consider that you will be traveling from point A to point B on public transportation. Or even if you fly, it is easier to just have a carry-on item with you. Pack light and smart is always my rule of thumb!

I love traveling with my Osprey Backpack , and if you are taking a backpack, I recommend rolling your clothes and using small packing cubes separated by categories (pants, tops, socks…), so you don’t need to empty the backpack every time when you are trying to reach to the items you need. Here are the best backpacks for travel that I recommend:

Osprey Talon 20 Liters

It doesn’t matter if you are traveling with luggage or a backpack, the fact is that you will need a day pack for Vietnam ! This is the backpack that I use and recommend because you can fit a lot, keep everything organized and it is super comfortable to carry around for hours.

Osprey Levity 45 Liters

This is an ultralight backpack specially designed for minimalist travelers who are particular about light and smart packing. Made with breathable fabric and enough pockets for proper pack organization. It is a great backpack for hiking because it is light and very comfortable to carry.

Osprey Atmos 65 Liters

This is the backpack I have been using for many years now and they are amazing! I love the anti-gravity system and it really works wonders, plus it has ventilated suspended mesh back panel and adjustable torso length and straps to ensure carrying comfort.

Photography Gear in Brazil

We all know that Brazil is a very unique and magical place. It is impossible to not take many pictures and want to capture the amazing moments while traveling around Brazil.

Therefore, do not forget to bring your camera equipment with you:

• This is the camera I use and love – Sony Mirrorless a7III
• Bring a couple of good lenses for different pictures – I always carry this lens with me
• Extra memory cards 
• I recommend bringing some filters
• Tripod to photograph the waterfalls and depending on the time of the year, the Aurora Borealis. 
• If you want to capture amazing videos, I use and recommend a Gimble Smartphone Stabilizer
• I also recommend a GoPro HERO9 for some action images videos and pictures.
• You can also capture incredible Drone images in Iceland. I use DJI Mavic Air 2

7-Steps for a well-planned trip to Brazil

• CHOOSE A LOCATION TO VISIT:  Start by checking other itineraries and tips that I have prepared, as I am providing the best information for you to plan an independent trip to Brazil on my  BRAZILTRAVEL GUIDE .
• BUY A GUIDE BOOK: An excellent guidebook that I recommend is  Lonely Planet Brazil Guidebook , as it has tons of great information on main attractions, places to stay, and many curiosities about Brazilian culture.
• BOOK YOUR FLIGHT: There are great options to fly direct to Brazil to the major airports of the country. Book in advance to try to get a better deal. The flights are approx. 6-8 hours. The best way to start your South America backpacking route is to fly to a large city. 
• BOOK YOUR ACCOMMODATION IN ADVANCE:  Brazil has great options for accommodations, but make sure you book in advance to take advantage of the best prices and best options. I recommend  Booking.com  as it has a great policy of free cancelation.
• START PACKING: It will depend on each area of Brazil you will visit to pack accordingly. Check my recommended packing list and my expert review on the Best Backpacks for Travel here.
• BE A RESPONSIBLE TRAVELER: Responsible and Ethical traveling is REALLY IMPORTANT.  Check my complete guide
• BOOK ANY TOUR IN ADVANCE:  There are great options for group or VIP tours in Brazil, just make sure you check the many options and book in advance.  Check here  for options or check some options for you below:

Planning a Trip to Brazil Conclusion

Brazil is a very large country, and you will need to plan accordingly before your visit. Preplanning, researching, and understanding what you are looking for will help make your travels far more successful and safe.

Make sure you have the places you want to visit highlighted. Brazil offers everything from large cities to the Amazon Rainforest to stunning beaches. You can visit my Travel Planning and print the easy 10-steps to plan an international trip.  

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51 thoughts on “ultimate guide to planning a perfect trip to brazil: expert tips from a local”.

Great Post Paula and a perfect place for me to start. Thank you ?

I’ve always wanted to go to Brazil, but got lost in the vastness. This is so helpful, thank you!

Nice post Paula. I have always loved Brazil since childhood – from their football! 🙂 Someday I would like to visit the Amazon rainforest and the Iguazu falls in this large diverse country. Do you plan to write about these destinations?

I am so happy you liked my post and that you loved Brazil. Yes, I am planning to cover every special corner of the country on my blog and planning to write about Amazon and Iguaçu also. I saw you have some great content on Peru and I cannot wait to go back and explore more, I will be using your blog for reference.

It is hard to pick a destination when you are going to a big country. There is so much to explore in Brazil. My recommendation is start with São Paulo and/or Rio de Janeiro e explore the surrounding. You should go with me sometime 😉

Thank you! I am excited to continue to write about Brazil, and hopefully you will be there soon too. You will love it!

What a great article Paula! A great resource to demystify a lot of the misconceptions about Brazil and encourage travelers to visit our beautiful country. Also thanks for linking to my article about the difference between Brazilian vs American pizza. ? As “Brazileiras” we know which one will always win. Hehehe ?

One of these days I will visit this beautiful country!! The food looks amazing. Pinning for future reference!

Adorei o texto e o contexto…muito útil para amantes viajantes!!!! Nosso lindo país vale a pena ser visitado, experimentado, com tanta diversidade, fauna exótica, praias de tirar o fôlego, montanhas cheias de charme e tranquilidade, você certamente encontrará vários países dentro de um só. Aproveitem e pesquisem sobre Rio Grande do Sul, especialmente Gramado e Canela, Pantanal Mato Grossense, Nordeste e seus encantos, nossa culinária que é um grande patrimônio. Paula parabéns por este post completo e maravilhoso.

Obrigada Patricia – sim, o Brasil tem vários países dentro de um só, e com um lugares tão unicos e incriveis para visitar.

For the first time I want to visit Brazil. Thanks for the interesting review.

Really a complete guide!

Thanks for all the useful tips! I’ve been to Brasil once, and I’m definitely coming back one day!

Brazil is absolutely one of my favourite countries in the world. I’ve been 3 times, but still have so much to see. I haven’t been for nearly 15 years, so I’m definitely due a return visit!

I’ve only been to a few places in Brazil and I fell in love with it 🙂 This guide will be very helpful when I plan my next trip 🙂 Thanks!

This post comes to me just in time as I am actually planning my trip to South America next year! I was a bit concerned about travelling safely in Brazil, and luckily found lots of useful tips from your post. Thank you!

I loved Brazil but sadly could only stay for 2 days! I need to go back and see more places there for sure, and will definitely keep this comprehensive guide handy! Thank you! 🙂

This is such an amazing and comprehensive post about Brazil! I will definitely be saving this for when I go in the future!

Such a great post! Would love to visit Brazil!

I last went to South America in 2009 but have never been to Brazil so it’s always been on my bucket list. I’ve recently been watching Race Around the World so now I’ve moved it right at the top. I really want to go and photograph animals in the Pantanal. So this is a really great overview for a beginner like me!

You will absolutely LOVE Brazil. I have been in Pantanal twice and I was planning to go back this year again. Whenever you want to go, just let me know, maybe we can go together! Pantanal is so unique from any other place in the Planet.

Thanks Tyra. I hope you get to visit Brazil, it is so diverse and there is so much to explore.

I am so happy to hear you like it Marisa. I hope you get to visit Brazil one day, you will love it and see how diverse this amazing country is.

Only 2 days! Girl, you need to go back and with the photography skills you have, you will have the best time of your life just photographing and exploring this amazing country. Thanks for stopping by.

I am so glad to hear that this guide was helpful for you Fiona. Yes, it is a good start, Brazil is so big and so diverse. Let me know when you are getting ready and if I can help you with your plans.

Hi Or, I am so glad you found this guide helpful. Brazil need to be explored on many trips. I am from Brazil and I still haven’t explored half of this vast country.

Time to go back again Deborah 🙂 and really makes me so happy that you love Brazil. There is so much to do and so many places to visit. It is so awesome you have been 3 times and love it!

Thanks Mal, and I am so glad you have visited and enjoyed Brasil. Actually I read your blog about Brazil and make me so happy to see that you are helping to promote my beautiful home country.

Thanks for the guide! I have a colleague who lives in Brazil, and I would love to go visit! Your photos of the fresh fruit are calling my name. Also, love the link to the Brazilian pizza 101 article. Yummm!

It’s my dream to participate in Carnival in Brazil haha I love the costumes so much. Also really want to go to the Amazon and Iguazu falls. But like you said, they are so far from each other. Might have to be more than one trip 😛 These are such great tips! Always love hearing from someone from the country.

I went to Recife for two weeks this year. You are right, not many people speak English, it was a hurdle we had to get over. But the FOOD! Wow! a lot of the stuff we ate was regional (not even on your list!) and it was all SO good!

The size of Brazil has always been so intimidating to me – I’ve never known where to start. Thank you for simplifying the top points, especially the key areas to visit. I hope to make it to at least one of them some day.

What a comprehensive guide, and i love the mention on being a responsible traveler! I have to say its one of my dream destinations, but the safety aspect has always concerned me! Thank you for sharing it Paula!

This is such a helpful guide, thanks so much for putting this together! I’m hoping to visit Brazil when we can travel again, so this is great!

Hi Emma, I am so glad you enjoyed this guide. I hope so too that you get to travel to Brazil one day, you will love it.

hi Tia, I am so glad you found my guide helpful. I agree with you about the safety aspects, but during my last trip to Rio last year, I was as a solo and I felt really safe and enjoyed the beauty of this incredible city.

Thanks for your feedback, Katie. I hear that a lot, that people don’t even know where to start because Brazil is so big. If you evern decide to go, reach out to me and I will be happy to help you with some ideas of places to visit.

Amy, I am so happy to hear you visited Recife and loved it. Yes, Brazil is very diverse and each region has it’s own accent, food, culture…In order to explore all the amazing food, someone would need to spend at least a year traveling around the country. The food is really amazing!

I am so glad o hear you like this article Viola. I also have the Amazon on my bucket list, I haven’t been yet and I cannot wait to visit. You will love Brazil! Maybe we can go together one day 🙂

Brazil is very high on my bucket list. I love how vast and diverse the country is. Thank you for this great guide. Definitely will keep it handy for when I plan my future travels to Brazil. 🙂

Thanks for sharing such useful information .hope to visit Brazil someday

What an incredibly helpful guide. I especially loved the section on safety as well as suggestions for what to pack. As always, your pictures are stunning! I just pinned for future inspiration 🙂

Oh wow! i really want to visit one day! looks so stunning!

I really hope you get to visit Brazil one day, you will love it.

I am so glad you enjoyed this guide, Elena. Thank you so much!

I hope you get to visit Brazil someday too, you will love it.

Oh Taylor, you will fall in love with Brazil. I am so glad you found this guide helpful

Paula, nice blog. I’m heading to Brazil in 10 days for a 2 month trip. How do you deal with your camera equipment when passing through customs? I’m a wildlife photographer so I will be taking a camera body and several large lenses. For non-resident travellers, it appears that camera equipment over $500 dollars must be declared on the customs form.

Hi Shane, I am glad you found my blog and enjoyed it. That is a great question, and I always traveled to Brazil with a lot of electronics – 2 laptops (personal and work), 2 cell phones (personal and work), and my camera gears (lots of lenses, filters, etc.) and I never declared anything as they are all my personal items. Where are you planning to travel to, Guarulhos (GRU in Sao Paulo)? or any other city? It will depend on when you are traveling, but my experience is that if you are traveling to GRU you won’t have any issues if you are only carrying your personal electronic items.

so great infos thanks very much, also try this out ” atm fee saver” app, i just used it while travelling. its shows atm around with the lowest fees for withdrawing money. i always struggle to find good atms or i dont know how much i can withdraw, it has all the infos so i can totally recommend it 🙂

Hi Anni – this is a very good information, thanks so much. I will download it and use it myself too.

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Brazilians often say they live in a continent rather than a country. It’s an excusable exaggeration. The landmass is bigger than the United States if you exclude Alaska; the journey from Recife in the east to the western border with Peru is longer than that from London to Moscow, and the distance between the northern and southern borders is about the same as that between New York and Los Angeles. Brazil has no mountains to compare with its Andean neighbours, but in every other respect it has all the scenic – and cultural – variety you would expect from so vast a country.

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Where to go in brazil, festivals in brazil, language in brazil, travel ideas for brazil, created by local experts.

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Breathtaking Brazil: Rio, Beaches and Waterfalls

Explore the lively city of Rio de Janeiro, home to Ipanema and Copacabana beaches; experience the stunning Foz do Iguaçu National Park and see the world’s largest waterfalls system; immerse yourself in cultural Salvador, the magnificent former capital of Portugal’s New World colony.

Despite the immense expanses of the interior, roughly two-thirds of Brazil’s population live on or near the coast and well over half live in cities – even in the Amazon. In Rio and São Paulo, Brazil has two of the world’s great metropolises, and ten other cities have over a million inhabitants. Yet Brazil still thinks of itself as a frontier country, and certainly the deeper into the interior you go, the thinner the population becomes.

Other South Americans regard Brazilians as a race apart, and language has a lot to do with it – Brazilians understand Spanish, just about, but Spanish-speakers won’t understand Portuguese. Brazilians also look different. In the extreme south German and eastern European immigration has left distinctive traces; São Paulo has the world’s largest Japanese community outside Japan; slavery lies behind a large Afro-Brazilian population concentrated in Rio, Salvador and São Luís; while the Indian influence is still very visible in the Amazon. Italian and Portuguese immigration has been so great that its influence is felt across the entire country.

Brazil is a land of profound economic contradictions. Rapid post-war industrialization made it one of the world’s ten largest economies by the 1990s and it is misleading to think of Brazil as a developing country; it is quickly becoming the world’s leading agricultural exporter and has several home-grown multinationals competing successfully in world markets. The last decade has seen millions of Brazilians haul their way into the country’s expanding middle class, and across-the-board improvements in social indicators like life expectancy and basic education. But yawning social divides are still a fact of life in Brazil. The cities are dotted with favelas , shantytowns that crowd around the skyscrapers, and there are wide regional differences , too: Brazilians talk of a “Switzerland” in the South, centred on the Rio–São Paulo axis, and an “India” above it, and although this is a simplification the level of economic development does fall the further north or east you go. Brazil has enormous natural resources but their exploitation has benefited fewer than it should. Institutionalized corruption, a bloated and inefficient public sector and the reluctance of the country’s middle class to do anything that might jeopardize its comfortable lifestyle are a big part of the problem. Levels of violence that would be considered a public emergency in most countries are fatalistically accepted in Brazil – an average of seventeen murders per day in the city of Rio de Janeiro, for example.

These difficulties, however, don’t overshadow everyday life in Brazil, and violence rarely affects tourists. It’s fair to say that nowhere in the world do people enjoy themselves more – most famously in the annual orgiastic celebrations of Carnaval , but reflected, too, in the lively year-round nightlife that you’ll find in any decent-sized town. This national hedonism also manifests itself in Brazil’s highly developed beach culture , superb music and dancing, rich regional cuisines and the most relaxed and tolerant attitude to sexuality – gay and straight – that you’ll find anywhere in South America.

• By far the largest country in South America, Brazil covers nearly half the continent and is only slightly smaller than the US, with an area of just over 8.5 million square kilometres. It shares a frontier with every South American country except Chile and Ecuador.
• Brazil has around 200 million inhabitants, making it the fifth most populous country in the world.
• Almost ninety percent of Brazil’s electricity is generated from hydropower, about six percent from fossil fuels and six percent from nuclear power. Brazil is becoming an important oil exporter, with new reserves recently discovered offshore from Rio.
• Brazilian exports consist mainly of manufactured products (including automobiles, machinery and footwear), minerals and foodstuffs as varied as coffee, beef and orange juice. But only thirteen percent of GDP comes from exports: Brazil‘s growing domestic economy is the powerhouse of its development.

The most heavily populated part of the country is the Southeast, where the three largest cities – São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro and Belo Horizonte – form a triangle around which the economy pivots. All are worth visiting but Rio, which really is as beautiful as it seems in pictures, is the one essential destination. The South, encompassing the states of Paraná, Santa Catarina and Rio Grande do Sul, is the most economically advanced part of the country and includes much of the enormous Paraná river system. The spectacular Iguaçu Falls on the border with Argentina is one of the great natural wonders of South America.

Central Brazil is dominated by an enormous plateau of savanna and rock escarpments, the Planalto Central. In the middle stands Brasília, the country’s space-age capital, built from scratch in the late 1950s and still developing today. The capital is the gateway to a vast interior, Mato Grosso, only fully charted and settled over the last fifty years; it includes the Pantanal, the largest wetlands in the world and the richest wildlife reserve anywhere in the Americas. North and west Mato Grosso shades into the Amazon, the world’s largest river basin and a mosaic of jungle, rivers, savanna and marshland that also contains two major cities – Belém, at the mouth of the Amazon itself, and Manaus, some 1600km upstream. The tributaries of the Amazon, rivers like the Tapajós, the Xingú, the Negro, the Araguaia or the Tocantins, are virtually unknown outside Brazil, but each is a huge river system in its own right.

The other major sub-region of Brazil is the Northeast, the part of the country that curves out into the Atlantic Ocean. This was the first part of Brazil to be settled by the Portuguese and colonial remains are thicker on the ground here than anywhere else in the country – notably in the cities of Salvador and São Luís and the lovely town of Olinda. It’s a region of dramatic contrasts: a lush tropical coastline with the best beaches in Brazil quickly gives way to the sertão, a semi-arid interior plagued by drought and grinding poverty. All the major cities of the Northeast are on the coast; the two largest are sprawling Recife and Salvador, Brazil’s most heavily Afro-Brazilian city and a fascinating place to visit. The coast of the Northeast is developing rapidly these days, taking advantage of proximity to Europe to attract package tourists and holiday-home buyers. But it is big enough for it still to be possible to get away from it all.

Discover more places in Brazil

• Mato Grosso Travel Guide
• Minas Gerais and Espírito Santo Travel Guide
• The Northeast Travel Guide
• São Paulo Travel Guide
• Brazil South Travel Guide

Carnaval is the most important festival in Brazil, but there are other parties, too, from saints’ days to celebrations based around elections or the World Cup.

When Carnaval comes, the country gets down to some of the most serious partying in the world. A Caribbean carnival might prepare you a little, but what happens in Brazil is more spectacular, goes on longer and is on a far larger scale. Every place in Brazil, large or small, has some form of Carnaval, and in three places especially – Rio, Salvador and Olinda, just outside Recife – Carnaval has become a mass event, involving seemingly the entire populations of the cities and drawing visitors from all over the world.

When exactly Carnaval begins depends on the ecclesiastical calendar: it starts at midnight of the Friday before Ash Wednesday and ends on the Wednesday night, though effectively people start partying on Friday afternoon – over four days of continuous, determined celebration. It usually happens in the middle of February, although very occasionally it can be early March. But in effect, the entire period from Christmas is a kind of run-up to Carnaval. People start working on costumes, songs are composed and rehearsals staged in school playgrounds and backyards, so that Carnaval comes as a culmination rather than a sudden burst of excitement and colour.

During the couple of weekends immediately before Carnaval proper, there are carnival balls (bailes carnavalescos), which get pretty wild. Don’t expect to find many things open or to get much done in the week before Carnaval, or the week after it, when the country takes a few days off to shake off its enormous collective hangover. During Carnaval itself, stores open briefly on Monday and Tuesday mornings, but banks and offices stay closed. Domestic airlines, local and inter-city buses run a Sunday service during the period.

The most familiar and most spectacular Carnaval is in Rio, dominated by samba and the parade of samba schools down the enormous concrete expanse of the gloriously named Sambódromo. One of the world’s great sights, and televised live to the whole country, Rio’s Carnaval has its critics. It is certainly less participatory than Olinda or Salvador, with people crammed into grandstands watching, rather than down following the schools.

Salvador is, in many ways, the antithesis of Rio, with several focuses around the old city centre: the parade is only one of a number of things going on, and people follow parading schools and the trio elétrico, groups playing on top of trucks wired for sound. Samba is only one of several types of music being played; indeed, if it’s music you’re interested in, Salvador is the best place to hear and see it.

Olinda, in a magical colonial setting just outside Recife, has a character all its own, less frantic than Rio and Salvador; musically, it’s dominated by frevo, the fast, whirling beat of Pernambuco, and is in some ways the most distinctive visually, with its bonecos, large papier-mâché figures that are the centrepiece of the Olinda street parades.

Some places you would expect to be large enough to have an impressive Carnaval are in fact notoriously bad at it: cities in this category are São Paulo, Brasília and Belo Horizonte. On the other hand, there are also places that have much better Carnavals than you would imagine: the one in Belém is very distinctive, with the Amazonian food and rhythms of the carimbó, and Fortaleza also has a good reputation. The South, usually written off by most people as far as Carnaval is concerned, has major events in Florianópolis, primarily aimed at attracting Argentine and São Paulo tourists, and the smaller but more distinctive Carnaval in Laguna. For full details of the events, music and happenings at each of the main Carnavals, see under the relevant sections of the Guide.

Other festivals

The third week in June has festas juninas, geared mainly towards children, who dress up in straw hats and checked shirts and release paper balloons with candles attached (to provide the hot air), causing anything from a fright to a major conflagration when they land.

Elections and the World Cup are usually excuses for impromptu celebrations, while official celebrations, with military parades and patriotic speeches, take place on September 7 (Independence Day) and November 15, the anniversary of the declaration of the Republic.

In towns and rural areas, you may well stumble across a dia de festa, the day of the local patron saint, a very simple event in which the image of the saint is paraded through the town, with a band and firecrackers, a thanksgiving Mass is celebrated, and then everyone turns to the secular pleasures of the fair, the market and the bottle. In Belém, this tradition reaches its zenith in the annual Cirio on the second Sunday of October, when crowds of over a million follow the procession of the image of Nossa Senhora de Nazaré, but most festas are small-scale, small-town events.

In recent years, many towns have created new festivals, usually glorified industrial fairs or agricultural shows. Often these events are named after the local area’s most important product, such as the Festa Nacional do Frango e do Peru (chickens and turkeys) in Chapecó. Occasionally, these local government creations can be worth attending as some promote local popular culture as well as industry. One of the best is Pomerode’s annual Festa Pomerana, which takes place in the first half of January and has done much to encourage the promotion of local German traditions.

Football in Brazil

Going to a football match in Brazil is something even those bored by the game will enjoy as spectacle: the stadiums are sights in themselves and big matches are watched behind a screen of tickertape and waving flags, huge banners, massed drums, fireworks and firecrackers, to the chants, roars and whistling of the world’s most passionate football supporters.

Brazil’s major teams are concentrated in Rio and São Paulo. In Rio, Flamengo is the best-supported team in the country, and its distinctive shirt of red and black hoops is seen everywhere. Its clashes with perennial Rio rival Fluminense (maroon, green and white stripes) is one of the most intense matches in Brazilian club football, rivalled only by the games between São Paulo’s two leading teams, São Paulo (white with red and black hoops) and Coríntians (white). In Rio, Botafogo (black and white stripes with the famous white-star badge) and Vasco (white with black diagonal stripe) vie with Fla-Flu for dominance, while Palmeiras (green) and Santos (white) make up the big four in São Paulo. The only teams that consistently live with the best of Rio and São Paulo are Internacional (red) and Grêmio (blue, white and black stripes) from Porto Alegre, and Atlético Mineiro (white) and Cruzeiro (dark blue) from Belo Horizonte.

Brazilian stadiums tend to be enormous, concrete, and with a few exceptions rather dingy and lacking in character: they are rarely full save for clássicos, matches between major teams, and rely on the supporters rather than their architecture for colour and feeling. Most pitches are separated from supporters by a wide running track and sometimes even a moat, which puts the play further from the terraces than British fans will be used to. But some stadiums are worth going out of your way for: the Maracanã in Rio, it goes without saying, but also the beautiful Art Deco Pacaembú in São Paulo. No football fan should visit Rio without leaving a morning for the excellent tour of the Maracanã, or miss the superb new Museu de Futbol when in São Paulo.

Tickets are very cheap by European standards; good seats at a clássico will cost no more than R$50, but an ordinary match will be half that or less – the issue is availability rather than price. For clássicos, hotels often have packages that include transport, tickets and a guide for around R$100 all in, an expensive way of doing it but often the only practical option if you can’t get a ticket a few days in advance. For ordinary matches, you can almost always turn up half an hour beforehand and look for the bilheteria, the ticket office, which usually only takes cash. All stadiums are two-deckers, most are now all-seaters but a few still have terracing on the lower deck: upper-deck seats are arquibancada, lower-deck geral. There is not as much of a problem with crowd violence in Brazil as in many European countries, but don’t wear a Brazilian club shirt just to be on the safe side: non-Brazilian shirts are no problem (except for Argentinian ones – the two countries don’t get on well in footballing terms), and Brazilian fans are extremely friendly to foreigners. December is the off season; otherwise, a mixture of state and national championships ensures constant football.

Learning some Portuguese before you go to Brazil is an extremely good idea. Although many well-educated Brazilians speak English, and it’s now the main second language taught in schools, this hasn’t filtered through to most of the population. If you know Spanish you’re halfway there: there are obvious similarities in the grammar and vocabulary, so you should be able to make yourself understood if you speak slowly, and reading won’t present you with too many problems. However, Portuguese pronunciation is utterly different and much less straightforward than Spanish, so unless you take the trouble to learn a bit about it you won’t have a clue what Brazilians are talking about. And contrary to what you might expect, very few Brazilians speak Spanish themselves.

Unfortunately, far too many people – especially Spanish-speakers – are put off going to Brazil precisely by the language, but in reality this should be one of your main reasons for going. Brazilian Portuguese is a colourful, sensual language full of wonderfully rude and exotic vowel sounds, swooping intonation and hilarious idiomatic expressions. You’ll also find that Brazilians will greatly appreciate even your most rudimentary efforts, and every small improvement in your Portuguese will make your stay in Brazil ten times more enjoyable.

People who have learned their Portuguese in Portugal or in Lusophone Africa won’t have any real problems with the language in Brazil, but there are some quite big differences. There are many variations in vocabulary, and Brazilians take more liberties with the language, but the most notable differences are in pronunciation: Brazilian Portuguese is spoken more slowly and clearly; the neutral vowels so characteristic of European Portuguese tend to be sounded in full; in much of Brazil outside Rio the slushy “sh” sound doesn’t exist; and the “de” and “te” endings of words like cidade and diferente are palatalized so they end up sounding like “sidadgee” and “djiferentchee”.

Carnaval plunges Brazil into the most serious partying in the world. Mardi Gras in New Orleans or Notting Hill in London are not even close; nothing approaches the sheer scale and spectacle of Carnaval in Rio, Salvador and Olinda, just outside Recife. But Carnaval also speaks to the streak of melancholy that is the other side of the stereotype of fun-loving Brazil.

Part of the reason is Carnaval’s origins at the time when Brazil was still the largest slaveholding country in the Americas. The celebrations just before Lent acquired a kind of “world turned upside down” character, with slaveowners ceremonially serving their slaves food and allowing them time off work – giving a particularly double-edged feel to Carnaval as servitude reasserted itself come Ash Wedneday. Brazil has come a long way since then, but the traditional freedom to transgress that comes with Carnaval gives its partying an edge that deepens in the small hours, as alcohol and crowds generate their usual tensions – the already high murder rate hits its peak over the festival and traffic deaths are also at their annual high. There is a big difference between day and night. Carnaval during the day is for families, and you can relax along with the Pierrots, masks and brass bands that ply the streets and squares: if you travel with children they will remember a good Carnaval for the rest of their lives. Carnaval at night is memorably spectacular in Rio and the biggest street party you will ever see in Salvador and Olinda, but it’s best to keep your wits about you and your head clear. For more information, see Carnaval dates and the relevant sections of the guide for more information.

Travel advice for Brazil

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Brazil

• Eating and drinking in Brazil
• How to get to Brazil
• Getting around Brazil: Transportation Tips
• Travel Tips Brazil for planning and on the go

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Brazil Travel Guide

Last Updated: April 29, 2024

Brazil is impossible to summarize in just a few paragraphs. It’s the largest country in South America and home to cosmopolitan cities like Rio de Janeiro and its Wonder of the World Christ the Redeemer statue, the rambunctious and world-famous Carnival, the Amazon River and rainforest, and an abundance of lush and untamed nature.

Brazil has more plant and animal species than anywhere else in the world, making it a paradise for travelers who love the outdoors. It’s also home to the towering and awe-inspiring Iguazú Falls.

In other words, you’re going to need longer than a week to visit this massive, diverse country.

Meet the locals at Copacabana Beach in Rio or spend an evening learning how to dance the samba. Cruise the wetlands of the Pantanal or the Amazon River while keeping an eye out for exotic wildlife like toucans and pink dolphins. Gorge on a barbecue feast, and cool off with caipirinha , Brazil’s official cocktail of sugarcane liquor, sugar, and lime.

Throw in passionate fútbol (soccer) matches, beautiful people, and low prices, and it’s easy to see why Brazil is one of the most popular destinations in the world.

This travel guide to Brazil will help you plan your trip, save money, stay safe, and make the most of your time in this amazing country.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Brazil

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Top 5 things to see and do in brazil.

1. Visit Rio de Janeiro

Home to over 12 million people, Rio de Janeiro has dozens of museums, the world-famous sandy beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema, countless party spots, the towering Christ the Redeemer statue (a New Wonder of the World), Sugarloaf Mountain, Tijuca National Park (the largest urban rainforest in the world) right in the city’s backyard, and so much more. No visit to Brazil is complete without a stop here. It’s fun personified, especially if you come during Carnival!

2. Visit Florianópolis

Florianópolis is one of Brazil’s most popular coastal cities, (especially for surfers taking advantage of big waves). Brazilians love to vacation here, and it’s a big spot for backpackers too, thanks to its powdery beaches, cheap seafood, fantastic hiking, and awesome nightlife. Come here to party, lounge, hike, and enjoy the sunshine!

3. Spend time in the Amazon

The Amazon covers 8% of the earth’s surface and is home to 50% of its biodiversity. There are so many ways to experience it: take a jungle cruise down the Amazon River, do a guided multi-day trek , or join a wildlife tour. You can also visit indigenous communities and learn how they live in such a unique place.

4. Go to Fernando de Noronha

Fernando de Noronha was Brazil’s first national marine park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The sandy beaches with turquoise waters and excellent snorkeling (there are lots of dolphins here) will take your breath away. 70% of the island is protected, and less than 500 people are permitted at a time, meaning the island is largely empty. It’s one of the most gorgeous places in South America, though be prepared to pay for it in higher accommodation and food costs, as well as a daily visitor tax (87 BRL per day, plus a 330 BRL 10-day visitor pass).

5. See Iguazú Falls

Other things to see and do in brazil, 1. attend a fútbol match in rio.

Fútbol (soccer) is a religion here, and the chaos and excitement during a match are contagious! Maracanã in Rio de Janeiro is one of the largest stadiums in the world, and it seats 100,000 supporters. The best games are the local teams (Flamengo, Vasco, Botafogo, and Fluminese) because you’re guaranteed a game full of singing, cheering, and insult-slinging. You can buy tickets through the teams’ websites or the FutebolCard site. Tickets can be as low as 20 BRL. To learn even more about the sport and stadium, you can take a stadium tour for 77 BRL.

2. Enjoy Rio Carnival

The Rio Carnival is an epic festival of music, samba, and revelers dressed in elaborate, colorful regalia as they take to the streets by the thousands. It’s one of the biggest celebrations in the world (2 million people hit the streets every day during Carnival). The entire celebration is one last hurrah before the start of Lent’s quiet period. Prices for accommodations triple during Carnival (held every February) so be sure to book far in advance for the best deals. You can reserve your 2024 Carnival tickets in advance here (highly recommended – they sell out quickly)!

3. Visit Brasilia

Brasilia is the often-overlooked capital of Brazil. This futuristic city was established in 1960 and is a hub for modernist architecture, including the National Congress, with its odd bowl-shaped structures, and Santuário Dom Bosco church which boasts long, narrow windows made of blue-colored Murano glass that represents a starry sky. Visit the 60,000-acre Parque Nacional de Brasilia and walk the trails between tall Cerrado trees while looking for wildlife like anteaters and pampas deer.

4. Explore the Pantanal

Located in Western Brazil, the Pantanal is the largest wetland in the world, stretching into parts of Bolivia and Paraguay. Over 11,000 species of animal live here, including the rare marsh deer, the giant anteater, and the hyacinth macaw. The two main access points are Cuiabá and Campo Grande. I recommend the latter as it tends to offer more affordable accommodations and tour options. Most wildlife and sightseeing tours are multi-day and cost a minimum of about 1,325 BRL per day.

5. Relax in Recife

Located on the eastern tip of the country, Recife is the place to be if you want to relax and enjoy some of Brazil’s scenic beaches. Boa Viagem, the 7-kilometer (4-mile) stretch of sand between Pina to Piedade, is very developed with cabanas and sun chairs for rent. Piedade is equally as beautiful but less touristy, lined with restaurants and bars where the locals hang out. For an even more low-key beach area, head south to Porto de Galinhas, where the beach is virtually empty.

6. Visit Salvador

Salvador was Brazil’s first capital city, and today it remains the country’s cultural capital, thanks to its vibrant Afro-Brazilian community. Located down the coast from Recife, Nosso Senhor do Bonfim is a perfect example of this community’s unique spirit: it’s a church that peacefully combines Catholicism and Candomblé (a religion originating from West Africa). Furthermore, the pastel-painted colonial buildings and cobblestone scenes of the Pelourinho neighborhood are extremely photogenic, and if you stay in this area, you’ll have easy access to shopping, restaurants, bars, and live music. Local tour operator Your Tour Brazil offers many different tours to help you dig deeper into Salvador’s culture, including their African Heritage & Acarajé Tasting tour .

7. See São Paulo

São Paulo, the fourth-largest city in the world and the largest in South America, is home to over 23 million people. This sprawling metropolis is for anyone who loves wild nightlife, great museums, interesting street art, live samba music, and fine dining. Every area is like its own micro-city and it’s a completely different vibe than Rio (taking a walking tour is one of the best way to get a handle on this gigantic city). São Paulo also has a flourishing art community, which you can discover through its many experimental theaters and art-house cinemas (including CineSala, an independent street theater founded in 1959).

8. Try capoeira

Capoeira is a combination of dance, music, and martial arts created nearly 500 years ago by enslaved West Africans to disguise their combat training. It kind of looks like breakdancing, emphasizing flow over specific stances. In Brazil’s larger cities you can sign up for intro classes, including in Rio de Janeiro, where classes start from 70 BRL. Angola N’Golo is an affordable school to check out.

9. Unplug in Ilha Grande

You’d never know from the look of it that the tropical island paradise of Ilha Grande was once a pirate’s hideout, a leper colony, and a high-security prison. Nowadays people (especially locals from nearby Rio) come here on the weekends to hang out on the pristine beaches, like Aventura Beach and Palmas Cove. There are a handful of hostels and accommodations here, but mostly the island is made up of undeveloped jungles and beaches. Come here to lounge, disconnect, and chill out.

10. Visit Ouro Preto

Ouro Preto, a 17th-century colonial town, is one of Brazil’s most picturesque towns for its brightly painted houses, Baroque churches, and large leafy plazas. Located around 400 kilometers (250 miles) north of Rio, Ouro Preto sits in a valley at the foot of the Serra do Espinhaco, and up in the hills surrounding the town are 23 churches you can hike to visit.

11. Learn samba

Samba is a musical genre and dance born in Rio de Janeiro’s Afro-Brazilian communities in the early 20th century. Today, it’s an important Brazilian cultural symbol, but Rio remains one of the best places in Brazil to learn how to dance. Rio Samba Dancer is my favorite for its all-levels group classes, especially for the classes combined with social outings to samba clubs. Classes start from about 105 BRL.

12. Admire the Azorean fishing villages

Brazil has 7,400 kilometers (4,500 miles) of coastline with many historic fishing villages to explore. Florianópolis has a number of particularly beautiful ones, including Santo Antonio de Lisboa and Ribeirão da Ilha, where you can indulge in delectable oyster and seafood dishes and enjoy secluded beaches, cobbled streets, and jellybean-colored houses. Sights in Ribeirão da Ilha include the Acoriano Casario Church and museum Ecomuseu do Ribeirão da Ilha, where you can learn more about the natural and Azorean cultural history of the area. Museum admission is 5 BRL.

13. Hike in Tijuca National Park

Tijuca National Park is the largest urban rainforest in the world, stretching across 8,300 acres. The area is home to over 350 different species of mammals, birds, and reptiles, including howler monkeys, which only came back to the park recently after a 100-year hiatus. The Corcovado (Christo) hike through Parque Lage to the top of Corcovado is a steep climb, but it’s shaded and only takes about three hours. Another scenic hike is to Tijuca Peak, starting in Rio’s North Zone and going past waterfalls and through dense rainforest. This hike only takes about two hours, and you’ll be rewarded with views over Niteroi and Guanabara Bay. Entrance to the park is free. This is a place where it’s really worth it to go with a tour though. You’ll not only have a more in-depth experience, learning history of the rainforest as well as how to recognize native flora and fauna, but get round-trip transportation to/from your accommodation as well. There are tons of tours available, from the popular jeep tours to full-day adventure hikes that go to lesser visited sections of the rainforest.

14. Visit Paraty

This incredibly well-preserved Portuguese colonial town and UNESCO World Heritige site is located almost halfway between São Paulo and Rio, making it an excellent place to stop and unwind for a few days as you travel between Brazil’s two largest cities. The picturesque cobblestone-lined streets of the 16th-century town are lined with handicraft shops, bars with live music every night, and great restaurants (go to family-run Vinicius for a superb homecooked meal). Located on Brazil’s Costa Verde (Green Coast), there’s a lot of adventure activities to be had here too, including jungle tours of the Atlantic Forest (usually with stops to visit historic cachaca distilleries, as the area is famous for brewing Brazil’s most popular spirit), and boat tours with snorkeling and beach stops. You’ll be able to see and enjoy all the main things to do in about three days here.

  For more information on specific cities in Brazil, check out these guides:

• Fernando de Noronha Travel Guide
• Florianópolis Travel Guide
• Sao Paulo Travel Guide
• Rio de Janeiro Travel Guide

Brazil Travel Costs

Accommodation – Brazil is a huge country (it’s the 7th-largest in the world) and accommodation prices fluctuate from city to city and from season to season (with huge increases during Carnival). Prices in places like Rio de Janeiro and Salvador are pretty consistent, but for beachy destinations like Florianópolis, prices change dramatically depending on the time of year.

A 4-6 person dorm costs about 75-85 BRL per night, while a bed in a 8-10 person dorm costs 60-70 BRL. More remote places like Fernando de Noronha have higher prices, with dorms costing up to 150 BRL per night.

A private double room in a hostel costs about 225-300 BRL, but sometimes you can find rooms for as low as 150 BRL per night.

A budget two-star hotel room in the center of town costs 200-300 BRL per night with air-conditioning and breakfast included. If you’re willing to leave the city center, you can sometimes find rooms for as low as 150 BRL per night.

Airbnb is another great budget option, with private rooms averaging around 100-150 BRL per night, while entire apartments or homes start around 275 BRL.

Campgrounds are plentiful by the beaches and national parks. Expect to pay around 40-70 BRL per night for a basic plot. Amenities generally include free Wi-Fi, bathroom facilities including hot showers, and charging stations.

Food – Brazilian cuisine — like the country itself — is a mix of many cultures, with European, Amerindian, African, and Japanese influences. As such a large country, food varies per region, with seafood plentiful on the coastlines and Brazilian barbeque dominating in the south. Rice and beans are a staple no matter where you are.

Common vegetables include tubers like cassava and yams, tomatoes, red peppers, okra, and more. Being a subtropical country, there’s a huge variety of fruits, with the most famous being the superfood açaí, though cupuaçu, mango, papaya, guava, orange, passion fruit, and pineapple are all common as well.

Feijoada , Brazil’s national dish, is a meaty bean stew that is traditionally eaten for Wednesday or Saturday lunch. Other popular dishes include moqueca (fish stew), polenta, and vatapá (a stew of bread, shrimp, coconut milk, and peanuts) among countless others.

Some popular street food snacks include pão de queijo (cheese bread rolls), acarajé (black eyed pea and shrimp fritters), coxinha (chicken croquettes), and pastéis (savory fried pies with assorted fillings).

All of this is to say that Brazil has such a variety of food and flavors that you never have to go far to find an affordable meal.

Street food like pastel (a deep-fried pastry with filling) or coxinha costs around 8-10 BRL. An açaí (served pureed and frozen, with toppings you can choose from) from a street stand or takeaway spot is 15-20 BRL. A sandwich and drink at a juice bar should be no more than 35-40 BRL, while a combo meal at a fast-food restaurant (think McDonald’s) is around 30-35 BRL. A meal at a Chinese takeout restaurant costs about the same, at 35 BRL for a dish like fried rice. Burgers cost 25-30 BRL and pizzas are around 50-60 BRL.

Buffets, where you pay by weight, are very common throughout Brazil. You usually pay around 65-80 BRL per kilo.

A meal at an inexpensive restaurant serving typical Brazilian dishes costs about 20-40 BRL, depending on the region and city. A meal with two courses at a casual restaurant starts from 60 BRL, though prices at restaurants along the beach can go much higher, often starting at 80 BRL for a dish.

If you want to splash out, a three-course meal at a mid-range restaurant costs about 150-180 BRL, but you can expect to pay nearly double this price at some places in Rio de Janeiro or São Paulo.

Dishes at higher-end seafood restaurants cost 150-225 BRL and up. At many restaurants in coastal areas, seafood dishes and platters are meant for two (often served with an entire fish) – it’s a huge portion of food that could easily be split between three people.

A domestic beer costs about 10-15 BRL, while a cocktail is 15-25 BRL. Wine is expensive (and not very good) in Brazil, so expect to pay at least 15-20 BRL per glass. A soda or juice is 5-8 BRL, and a cappuccino is 9-11 BRL.

Grocery shopping costs about 100-200 BRL per week for basic staples like fresh veggies, pasta, rice, and some meat or fish.

Backpacking Brazil Suggested Budgets

If you are backpacking Rio de Janeiro, expect to spend about 215 BRL per day. This covers staying in a hostel dorm, eating street food, cooking some of your meals, limiting your drinking, using public transportation to get around, and doing mostly free activities like enjoying the beach and hiking.

On a mid-range budget of about 420 BRL per day, you can stay in a private hostel or Airbnb room, eat out for all your meals at cheap local restaurants, take the occasional taxi to get around, take buses between destinations, enjoy a few drinks, and do more paid activities like surfing or samba lessons.

On a “luxury” budget of about 750 BRL per day or more, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for all your meals, enjoy more drinks, take taxis everywhere, fly between cities, and enjoy all the tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

If you’re coming during Carnival, expect prices for accommodations and activities to increase significantly (sometimes triple or even quadruple) — especially if you’re booking last minute.

If you’re staying in Fernando de Noronha, budget double the above suggestions.

You can use the chart below to get an idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in BRL.

Brazil Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Brazil is one of the most expensive countries in South America, but prices depend on where in the country you are and what kind of activities you’re doing. Brazil’s main cities like Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo are more expensive than rural areas (unless you’re seeking out less touristy locales, like Fernando do Noronha). Here are some money-saving tips to help you get started:

• Agree on taxi prices – Agree on the price for your journey with the taxi driver before setting off. Many drivers refuse to use their meters and try to rip you off. It’s much better to take a bus most of the time.
• Stay with a local – Couchsurfing connects you with locals who can give you a free place to stay and share their insider tips and advice. It’s the best way to meet locals and save money.
• Visit off-season – December to March is a pretty busy time as people from the Northern hemisphere escape the winter. Try to avoid these dates if you want to keep prices low.
• Skip Carnival – Carnival might be fun, but it’s also super expensive. If you’re on a budget, avoid visiting during Carnival.
• Get an Airpass – If you book your domestic flights in advance, the Airpass can save you money on flights. It’s the cheapest way to fly around the country (more on this below).
• Cook your meals – Eating out here can easily blow your budget so try and stay somewhere with a kitchen so you can do some cooking. It’s not glamorous, but if you live like the locals you’ll save a fortune.
• Pack a water bottle – The tap water here isn’t safe to drink so bring a water bottle with a filter to save money and reduce your single-use plastic usage. My preferred bottle is LifeStraw as it has a built-in filter to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Brazil

Hostels are widespread all over Brazil. You’ll also find a ton of B&Bs and cool Airbnbs. Basically, there are a lot of budget options here. My suggested places to stay in Brazil are:

• Joy Hostel (Brasilia)
• Barra Beach Club Oceanfront Hostel (Florianópolis)
• Submarino Hostel (Florianópolis)
• The Search House Beachfront Hostel (Florianópolis)
• Tucano House Summer Hostel (Florianópolis)
• Hostel e Pousada El Shaddai (Iguacu)
• Hostel Bambu (Iguacu)
• Books Hostel (Rio)
• Selina Lapa Rio de Janeiro (Rio)
• Mango Tree Hostel Ipanema (Rio)
• Bamboo Rio Hostel (Rio)
• O de Casa Hostel Bar (São Paulo)
• Hostel Galeria 13 (Salvador)

How to Get Around Brazil

Public transportation – City transportation in Brazil is efficient and modern. Many places (like Rio and São Paulo) have an extensive subway system. Fares cost around 5 BRL per one-way ticket. In most places, you can pick up a multi-day metro card to save money.

Buses are everywhere. A one-way ticket costs about 3-5 BRL, and as with the subway, there are usually multi-day metro cards available.

Taxis – Taxis are recommended in the evening when public transportation may not be as safe. Fares start at 6-8 BRL and then go up to about 3-6 BRL per kilometer. Use an app like 99 (formerly 99Taxis) to ensure you get a licensed taxi. Ridesharing like Uber is also available and common here.

Bus – Long-distance buses are a convenient, economical, and comfortable way to travel in the country. There are hundreds of routes. You can use Brazil Bus Travel to check schedules and book your tickets.

A bus from Rio to São Paulo takes 6.5 hours and costs about 180 BRL, or you can book a sleeper bus with a bed for 420 BRL. Rio to Florianópolis is a 20-hour journey that costs about 520 BRL for a regular seat or 1,050 for a bed.

To find bus routes and prices, use BusBud .

Train – Train service is limited to the tourist-oriented steam train that offers transport in between São Joao del Rei and Tiradentes. It’s expensive, so I don’t recommend doing this.

Flying – Air travel is useful if you’re trying to get around the country on limited time (especially if you’re traveling between the big cities, or between places like Rio and the Amazon). The country’s major airlines are:

If you’re booking a flight two months in advance from Rio de Janeiro to Manaus (the easiest way to reach the Amazon), you can find airfare for as low as 1,700 BRL (round-trip). Rio to Salvador is about 360 BRL (one-way), while flights between Brasilia and São Paulo can be as little as 155 BRL (one-way).

An Airpass is a practical option if you’re going to take a lot of flights within 30 days (especially if you’re going to the Amazon, which is far and expensive to get to). With GOL you can get a 90-day pass with four domestic flights in its network for 2,600 BRL. Azul offers something similar with four flights within three weeks for the same price. Brol.com can help you find the right pass.

Just keep in mind that you have to book in advance for these passes so this doesn’t allow for flexible travel. You also cannot use these passes during popular time periods, like during Carnival and Christmas/the New Year.

Car rental – Car rentals cost around 65-90 BRL per day for a multi-day rental. However, the road conditions aren’t great here and drivers are aggressive. Moreover, since break-ins and carjackings are common, I’d likely skip the rental here just to be safe.

When to Go to Brazil

Brazil covers such a large territory that the country is broken up into different climate areas. The “coldest” part is in the far south and southeast, with the winter season lasting from June to September. Brazilians will complain about the cold here, but it rarely dips below freezing. The summer months from December to March are hot.

If you’re sticking to Brazil’s coastal areas, the weather is warm year-round. During the winter (December to March), the temperature is always higher than 25°C (77°F). There’s near-constant sunshine, but there is also a rainy season, which lasts from October-January. The rainy season often starts earlier in Salvador and Recife.

The northeast (around the Amazon) is always hot, with temperatures often climbing to 40°C (104°F). There’s no real winter season. In Manaus and the central Amazon, the dry season is from July-October. This period is also the best time to visit wildlife in the Amazon as the water recedes and animals gather at watering holes. The same goes for the Pantanal.

If you come during the Brazilian winter, you’ll find much fewer crowds and lower prices. I consider this the best time to be here, but only if you’re not trying to escape the North American winter.

If you’re super budget-minded, don’t come during February when it’s Carnival and prices skyrocket!

How to Stay Safe in Brazil

Travelers need to be vigilant in Brazil . Pick-pocketing and other petty crimes are common here, especially in Rio. Don’t flash expensive belongings and always keep your phone and wallet secure and out of reach. Don’t bring anything valuable to the beach either. Be sure to lock up your valuables before leaving your accommodation, whether you’re staying in a hostel dorm or in a private hotel/Airbnb room.

Avoid going out alone in the evenings after dark. If you do need to travel at night to get back to your accommodation, take a taxi (use the 99 app to call one) or an Uber.

Solo female travelers will want to exercise caution here. Avoid walking around alone when possible and definitely avoid walking around at night. Always keep an eye on your drink (even when it’s being poured) and never accept drinks from strangers.

Use ATMs inside a bank or have a friend with you to keep an eye out while you withdraw cash.

To learn which scams to be on the lookout for, read about this post about common travel scams .

Carjacking and break-ins are common, so I’d probably avoid renting here just to be safe.

When hiking, always bring a lot of water and sunscreen. Be sure to check the weather before you depart and dress accordingly. Don’t pick fruit off a tree and eat it without knowing what it is (it might be poisonous). There is also a risk of the Zika virus and/or Malaria in certain areas. Carry bug spray and use it often.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

If you experience an emergency, dial 190 for assistance.

For more in-depth coverage of how to stay safe in Brazil, check out this post that answers some frequently asked questions and concerns.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past.

Brazil Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Brazil Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Brazil and continue planning your trip:

The 6 Best Hostels in Rio de Janeiro

Is Brazil Safe to Visit?

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13 Top Brazil Beaches

Explore the best spots for iconic sandy beaches and picture-worthy sunsets.

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Whether you're swimming, surfing or just taking in the views, Brazil beaches are sure to impress.

When you think of Brazil, one image that may come to mind is bronzed bodies lying on some of the world's most stunning sandy beaches . Such a portrayal is synonymous with famed pieces of shoreline like Copacabana or Ipanema in Rio de Janeiro – but with over 4,500 miles of coastline, Brazil boasts plenty more beautiful beaches to explore all over the country. From one beach ringed by gorgeous sand dunes to another one tucked deep in the jungle, here are 13 of the top strips of sand in Brazil.

Praia de Copacabana (Copacabana Beach): Rio de Janeiro

As the big kahuna of Brazilian beaches (along with neighboring Ipanema Beach), this Rio de Janeiro beach is renowned worldwide, having been name-checked in an iconic Barry Manilow song and playing host to more than 2 million people for its New Year's Eve celebrations. Copacabana Beach stretches for 2.5 miles along the southeast edge of Rio, lined by tall hotels with landmarks like Sugar Loaf Mountain and Christ the Redeemer looming overhead a few miles away. The beach is a veritable hive of activity, so you'll likely see locals playing beach soccer and volleyball or lifting weights; there are also plenty of vendors around the beach and the adjacent promenade, selling everything from caipirinha cocktails to empanadas and grilled shrimp, as well as all manner of souvenirs. Beach chairs and umbrellas are available to rent at Copacabana.

Given its international fame, Copacabana tends to get rather crowded. While the beach's lively nature can make for great people-watching, you're advised to keep a close eye on your possessions, and ideally keep valuables on your person (or even better, leave them at your accommodation). Visitors thinking of going for a swim should be careful – lifeguards are present, but the sea at Copacabana can be quite rough.

[See more of Rio de Janeiro: Things to Do  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos ]

Praia de Ipanema (Ipanema Beach): Rio de Janeiro

Located practically around the corner from Copacabana, Ipanema Beach is Rio's other world-famous seaside hangout, also known for inspiring a hit song: Brazilian bossa nova track "The Girl from Ipanema." Ipanema boasts a little less than 2 miles of white sandy beach as well as formidable views of the Dois Irmãos mountains, and is often regarded as the more upscale option of Rio's two big-name beaches. A section called Ipanema Farme is considered one of the city's gay beaches, although the stretch of coast draws all kinds of people, so anyone is welcome.

The amenities at Ipanema are similar to those at Copacabana: Numerous vendors trek up and down the beach renting umbrellas and beach chairs, and there's no shortage of folks selling beer, cocktails and snacks. One uniquely Brazilian option is barbecued cheese – queijo coalho – sold by vendors carrying portable grills. As with Copacabana, the seas can be at times dangerous to swim in, so although there are lifeguards you'll probably want to stay out of the water unless you're a strong swimmer. Take care to secure your valuables, and note that in Brazil's peak season – December to March – you may have difficulty snagging a spot on the sand because of Ipanema's popularity.

Tucked into the east end of Ipanema, you'll find another beach and its namesake rock formation, both known as Arpoador. This small stretch of sand – a popular spot for surfers, where you can rent a long board or take a surfing lesson – separates Ipanema and Copacabana. Head to the far east end of this beach late in the day to admire its rocky peninsula that juts out into the Atlantic Ocean, making Arpoador one of Rio's most picturesque spots to watch the sun set.

Praia dos Carneiros (Carneiros Beach): Tamandaré

For a classic slice of tropical beauty, consider Praia dos Carneiros in Brazil's northeast. With azure waters, white sand and a grove of coconut trees lining the beach, Carneiros makes an idyllic spot to relax. The mostly undeveloped beach is far enough away from the big city so as not to be jam-packed, but it still has some tourist infrastructure. You can even stay right by the beach at hotels like Pontal dos Carneiros Bungalows, choosing from an array of airy huts among the coconut trees. A range of waterfront bars and restaurants in the area often serve fresh seafood and other refreshments. As for activities, beachgoers can snorkel in natural pools during low tide, and a gorgeous colonial-era beachfront chapel called Capela de São Benedito is also worth a peek.

Set in the coastal town of Tamandaré in Brazil's Pernambuco state, Carneiros Beach is a little more than 60 miles from the nearest city, Recife. The easiest way to get there is by car or via a transfer booked through a travel agency; a bus journey is also possible but would be much slower.

Praia da Lagoinha do Leste (Lagoinha do Leste Beach): Santa Catarina Island

There's no shortage of sand on Santa Catarina Island, a popular nature destination about midway between the cities of São Paulo and Porto Alegre. With dozens of beaches, this island is a hotspot for surfing and other outdoor activities. Arguably the most stunning of them is Lagoinha do Leste Beach on Santa Catarina's southern end (not to be confused with Lagoinha da Ponta das Canas, a beach at the north tip of the island). You'll have to work a little for this one: The beach is about a one-hour hike each way from the town of Pantano do Sul, or a longer trek from Praia do Matadeiro. The first hiking option is only about 1.5 miles but can be moderately strenuous because of the elevation, so be sure to bring proper shoes. It's also possible to take a boat ride from Pantano do Sul to whisk you to the beach.

After hiking through the forest, you'll emerge onto a white strip of sand facing the turquoise waters of the Atlantic. Visitors can swim in the ocean, or in a nearby lagoon if the sea is too rough. If you're not too tired from the walk, consider hiking up to a nearby viewpoint on a hill for panoramic views. Otherwise, just take in the tranquility and wilderness. The beach is isolated and doesn't have many amenities beyond a small number of bars, which tend to charge high prices, so you may want to bring your own refreshments. There's limited accommodation in Pantano do Sul, so you might consider the city of Florianópolis, about 15 miles away, for more lodging options.

Praia do Espelho (Espelho Beach): Porto Seguro

This hidden gem of a beach is a short hop away from Porto Seguro – if you're not into the bars and nightlife this popular resort town offers, Praia do Espelho is a great alternative. Its name means "mirror" in Portuguese; fittingly, the beach's crystal-clear water reflects light from the sun and moon, particularly during low tide. If you're only making a brief visit, you might want to time it correctly with the help of tide charts so you can fully experience this phenomenon. Espelho is ideal for travelers seeking some serious relaxation amid a setting of palm trees and white sand. A small number of restaurants and bars dot the beach, and you'll find accommodation options both on the beach and set back in surrounding streets. Visitors can reach Espelho by driving along the coastline from the trendy beach town of Trancoso, a district of Porto Seguro, in the state of Bahia.

Prainha: Rio de Janeiro

Those looking to catch some waves should consider this small crescent-shaped beach, an easy daytrip from Rio. Prainha , popular among surfers, is a gorgeous slice of nature. Surrounded by hills, the beach sits in an environmentally protected area, making both the sand and water much cleaner than the bustling beaches back in the city. If you want to catch some rays, don't show up too late, as the sun dips behind the hills in the afternoon. The beach has a few kiosks on site, selling a standard selection of Brazilian beach snacks and drinks.

Prainha simply means "tiny beach" in Portuguese, so other Brazil beaches may have similar names. This particular beach is about a 30 mile drive west from central Rio de Janeiro, situated between the Recreio and Grumari districts. Prainha is primarily accessible by car, so you'll likely want to rent a vehicle or hire a taxi. Another option is the "Surf Bus" (geared toward surfers, naturally), which runs along the coast between Prainha and various Rio beaches like Copacabana.

Praia de Taipu de Fora (Taipu de Fora Beach): Maraú

There should be no need to fight for space at this tropical utopia, which stretches 4 miles along the south coast of Brazil's Bahia state. Taipu de Fora is known for its natural rock pools, formed between reefs just offshore when the tide is low, making for excellent snorkeling. Although Taipu de Fora is often considered the most beautiful beach in the area, plenty of other wonderful beaches also await you on the Maraú Peninsula, along with tranquil fishing villages like Taipu de Dentro – a fantastic spot to watch the sunset.

When visiting Taipu de Fora you can stay right alongside the beach: One intimate option is Dreamland Bungalows, which has just 12 units and a beachfront bar. Previous guests note that the hospitality at Dreamland is particularly warm. While there are other hotels as well as restaurants and bars in the area, for a wider selection consider staying a couple of miles north in the town of Barra Grande.

Praia do Aventureiro (Aventureiro Beach): Ilha Grande

For a taste of tranquil and tropical beach life within reach of major tourist destinations like Rio and São Paulo, Ilha Grande's coastline is a strong contender. This island is a popular hiking destination, home to wildlife ranging from howler monkeys to exotic birds. You can get there by taking a bus to either Conceição de Jacareí, Mangaratiba or Angra dos Reis and, from there, going by boat to Ilha Grande. Once you're on the island, there are numerous beaches to choose from, and Aventureiro comes highly recommended. Except for a small pier for boats, the beach – with its white sand and clean water – is pretty much untouched. Aventureiro is also known for a distinctive L-shaped palm tree that appears in many photos of the beach.

Keep in mind that the number of people allowed onto the beach per day is limited. It's thus advisable to register with the tourism authority in Angra dos Reis before heading to Aventureiro, especially in the summer high season from December through March, or if you're planning to camp or stay in one of the rustic lodges by the beach. In addition, getting to this remote beach can be challenging: Ilha Grande does not allow cars, so your journey to Aventureiro will have to take the form of either a long hike on the T9 trail or a boat trip. If seas are too rough, boats may not run, so plan accordingly – but know that the pristine beach is worth the hassle.

Jericoacoara: Jijoca de Jericoacoara

The sand doesn't stop at the edge of the beach in this idyllic fishing village on Brazil's northeast coast: Surrounded by mountainous dunes, the whole place is built on sand. Sometimes known as Jeri, Jericoacoara isn't as sleepy as it used to be, as word of its stunning beauty has traveled and made it somewhat of a destination. The main Jericoacoara beach starts in the town and stretches west, with blue seas and plenty of space. The towering Sunset Dune on the edge of town is a favorite spot for people to watch the sun go down. The town has amenities like restaurants, bars and hotels, although prices may be more expensive than those in outside towns and cities, and you may have difficulty acquiring some everyday items like sunscreen, so be sure to bring what you'll need.

The journey to Jericoacoara can get a little complicated. From the city of Fortaleza in the Brazilian state of Ceará, you can drive or take a bus about 180 miles west to either Préa or Jijoca, where you'll need to switch to a 4x4 vehicle or dune buggy to make the hop to Jericoacoara. Some companies offer transportation options to take you the whole way in one booking.

Baía do Sancho (Sancho Bay): Fernando de Noronha

The remote Fernando de Noronha archipelago, located about 215 miles off Brazil's coast and part of the Pernambuco state, has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its remoteness, endemic species and sheer beauty. Out of the main island's various beaches, Baía do Sancho is often named the best – in fact, it's often considered among the very best in the entire world. Access to the beach is only by boat or via a pair of vertical ladders that take you from the top of a cliff 230 feet down to the sand. You'll want to come prepared with water and decent shoes for the climb down. The crescent-shaped beach offers golden sands, turquoise waters, and plenty of peace and quiet.

Because a limited number of visitors are allowed here (only around 500 per day for the whole Fernando de Noronha Marine National Park), the Sancho beach generally won't be crowded at all, but you will have to pay a fee to access areas in the national park. The tight restrictions on tourism also mean that getting to the islands – and Baía do Sancho – requires advance planning: Flights are limited, and it's generally a much more expensive place to visit than the rest of Brazil.

Ilha do Amor (Love Island): Alter do Chão

For an out-of-the-box beach adventure, head inland to the northern city of Santarém, at the confluence of the Tapajós and Amazon rivers. Then drive or catch a bus a little more than 20 miles west to Alter do Chao. This town in Brazil's Pará state has a few beaches, but the top destination is Ilha do Amor, or Love Island: a thin, 6-mile strip of sand just offshore from the town. You can pay a small fee to be whisked over by rowboat – or, at low tide, even wade there yourself. Once you're on Ilha do Amor, vendors offer beach umbrellas and chairs, and there's various restaurants selling seafood, cocktails and more. It's safe to swim in the crystal-clear river waters, but Ilha do Amor can get pretty busy on weekends.

If you want to hang out on this freshwater beach, it's best to visit Alter do Chao in the dry season (roughly July to December); during the rest of the year, Ilha do Amor and nearby beaches shrink or vanish as the river rises for the wet season. Also keep in mind that other Brazil beaches may share the name Ilha do Amor, so make sure to plan your visit to the correct destination.

Praia da Pipa (Pipa Beach): Pipa

A little bit hippie and a little bit fancy, the northeastern town of Pipa has evolved from a fishing village to quite the trendy tourist destination. A big reason why is Pipa's namesake beach: Expect white sand, striking red-orange cliffs and azure waters that hover around 80 degrees. This surfing beach can have big waves and strong currents, so swim safely if you brave the water. Pipa and other nearby beaches are a great place to relax, and plenty of outdoorsy activities abound. Book a dune buggy tour or try out sandboarding before you hit up sleek boutiques and spas in the town center. Vendors offer drinks and snacks when you're on the beach, or you can stop by the many restaurants and bars in the town center, just a short walk from the beach.

The closest city to Pipa is Natal – about 50 miles north – which is the capital of the Rio Grande do Norte state. Van transfers can take you from the Natal airport to Pipa, as can regular buses between the two. The larger city of Recife is about 155 miles south; this trip requires a car rental, or a bus to Goianinha followed by a van transfer.

Praia do Toque (Toque Beach): São Miguel dos Milagres

Astonishingly beautiful and yet still relatively untouched by mass tourism, Praia do Toque in Brazil's northeastern Alagoas state is a well-kept secret. Visitors can enjoy fine white sand and gentle seas; at low tide, the ocean retreats, leaving natural saltwater pools that are great for snorkeling if you bring your mask. Toque Beach – not to be confused with similarly named beaches further south in São Sebastião – is not directly accessible by car, making the setting all the more peaceful, but it'll still be only a short walk away. The beach has a smattering of vendors on hand, but for more choice when it comes to food and drink, you'll want to head to the towns Toque sits between: São Miguel dos Milagres or Porto da Rua, each a little more than a mile away.

To get here from Recife, the nearest city, driving is the best option. There are buses to towns in the area like Japaratinga or Maragogi, but you'll need to find a cab or other ride for the final stretch.

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Tags: Travel , Beach Vacations , Brazil

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

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10 natural wonders of the world actually worth visiting, according to travel reviews

A new study looked at unique natural wonders you can’t find anywhere else in some of the most extraordinary places on the planet to rank 10 that are “actually worth a visit.”

Titan Travel — a travel agency that offers escorted tours across the globe — looked into the popularity of world-famous natural wonders on Instagram and TikTok, as well as Google search volumes and Tripadvisor to “reveal which natural wonders of the world are the best,” the company said. Two natural wonders in the United States made the list.

“While plenty of countries offer spectacular man-made sights like the Egyptian Pyramids, Machu Picchu or the Great Wall of China, it's the natural wonders that only a few people will ever get to see in their life that truly fill us with awe,” the company stated.

Seven world wonders in less than a week: Man sees The Great Wall, Taj Mahal and more to set new record

Top 10 best natural wonders of the world

1. arches national park, united states.

• 2.4M Google searches / 61.7M Tik Tok views / 663.8K Instagram posts
• 87.57% “excellent” reviews / 0.25% “terrible” reviews
• 8.29/10 “wonder” score

Learn more: Best travel insurance

2. Iguazu Falls, Brazil

• 2.5M Google searches / 44.8M Tik Tok views / 296.7K Instagram posts
• 90.73% “excellent” reviews / 0.11% “terrible” reviews
• 8.19/10 “wonder” score

3. Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

• 2.6M Google searches / 63.9M Tik Tok views / 318.5K Instagram posts
• 86.57% “excellent” reviews / 0.22% “terrible” reviews
• 8.14/10 “wonder” score

4. Grand Canyon, United States

• 682.0K Google searches / 568.9M Tik Tok views / 4.2M Instagram posts
• 89.99% “excellent” reviews / 0.60% “terrible” reviews
• 7.91/10 “wonder” score

5. Table Mountain, South Africa

• 1.4M Google searches / 44.5M Tik Tok views / 1.3M Instagram posts
• 81.83% “excellent” reviews / 0.26% “terrible” reviews
• 7.67/10 “wonder” score

6. Matterhorn, Switzerland

• 162.6K Google searches / 137.0M Tik Tok views / 969.7K Instagram posts
• 91.39% “excellent” reviews / 0.43% “terrible” reviews
• 7.24/10 “wonder” score

The most 'beautiful' sights in the US? This study of travel reviews shows us.

7. Mount Everest, Nepal

• 13.3M Google searches / 638.2M Tik Tok views /222.7K Instagram posts
• 88.68% “excellent” reviews / 1.62% “terrible” reviews
• 7.14/10 “wonder” score

8. Great Barrier Reef, Australia

• 4.0M Google searches / 164.1M Tik Tok views / 989.0K Instagram posts
• 77.44% “excellent” reviews / 2.44% “terrible” reviews
• 6.62/10 “wonder” score

9. Cliffs of Moher, Ireland

• 3.0M Google searches / 61.3M Tik Tok views / 693.8K Instagram posts
• 76.85% “excellent” reviews / 1.29% “terrible” reviews
• 6.53/10 “wonder” score

10. Angel Falls, Venezuela

• 1.6M Google searches / 20.2M Tik Tok views / 34.1K Instagram posts
• 91.03% “excellent” reviews / 0.28% “terrible” reviews
• 6.52/10 “wonder” score

10. Milford Sound, New Zealand

• 1.3M Google searches / 17.0M Tik Tok views / 426.3K Instagram posts
• 79.72% “excellent” reviews / 0.26% “terrible” reviews

What are the seven natural wonders of the world?

In 1997, CNN released a "Seven Natural Wonders of the World" list, which comprises geological, aquatic and astrophysical phenomena, in collaboration with the Seven Natural Wonders organization. Dispersed throughout five of the seven continents, these wonders are comparable in scale, but vary in accessibility and tourism infrastructure.

• Mount Everest
• Paricutin Volcano
• The Grand Canyon
• Victoria Falls
• The Harbor Of Rio de Janeiro
• Great Barrier Reef
• Northern Lights

50 Breathtaking and Unique Travel Bucket List Destinations Across the World

T raveling the world gives you endless opportunities to discover and personally witness natural wonders that you cannot find anywhere else. Even the most seasoned travelers or those who travel for work will never run out of places to explore. However, there are more sites to see than there is time to do so in this world. Most people can only travel at certain times of year , so trips have to be planned out strategically. If you are a person like most who does not have all the time in the world but still wants to see what the world has to offer, this travel bucket list is for you.

This travel bucket list highlights the top 10 spots to visit across five different continents. The destinations range from beautiful resorts , ancient archaeological sites, snow and ice wonderlands, traditional cities, natural wonders and more. Helping you narrow down your travel wishlist, this bucket list also offers an opportunity to discover what places make most of Earth’s seven continents magnificent and unique.

Discover your dream travel destination below.

North American Travel Bucket List Destinations

Antelope Canyon, Arizona : Antelope Canyon is a slot canyon known for its smooth, flowing sandstone walls that create mesmerizing light beams when the sun shines directly overhead. Divided into Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon, these narrow passageways with stunning hues and light play make it a photographer’s paradise.

Grand Prismatic Spring, Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming : This vibrant hot spring is famous for its rainbow-like colors caused by microbial mats around the mineral-rich waters. It is the largest hot spring in the United States and the third-largest in the world.

Banff National Park, Canada : Nestled in the Canadian Rockies, Banff National Park features stunning mountain scenery, pristine lakes and the iconic Lake Louise, surrounded by glaciers and snow-capped peaks.

Zion National Park, United States : Zion National Park in Utah offers more than just its famous rainbow mountains, including towering red cliffs, slot canyons and the emerald waters of the Virgin River.

Cenotes of the Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico : These natural sinkholes, filled with crystal-clear freshwater, are scattered across the Yucatan Peninsula, providing a unique and refreshing swimming experience.

Pitons, Saint Lucia : The Pitons are two volcanic spires, Gros Piton and Petit Piton, rising dramatically from the sea on Saint Lucia’s southwest coast. These UNESCO World Heritage Site landmarks offer hiking trails and stunning views of the surrounding lush landscapes and the Caribbean Sea.

Kenai Fjords National Park, Alaska : Experience dramatic fjords, tidewater glaciers and abundant marine wildlife in this stunning Alaskan park. Visitors can explore the park by boat tours to witness tidewater glaciers calving into the ocean, go hiking on various trails, take in the stunning scenery and experience the rich natural diversity.

The Baths, British Virgin Islands : This iconic destination on Virgin Gorda features massive granite boulders forming grottoes, pools and tunnels along the beach. Visitors can swim, snorkel and explore these enchanting natural formations.

White Sands National Park, New Mexico : White Sands National Park is located in the Tularosa Basin in southern New Mexico and spans about 275 square miles. The park is renowned as the world’s largest gypsum dune field. The dunes constantly shift and create a mesmerizing landscape. Visitors can hike the trails through the dunes, sled down the sand, stargaze in this International Dark Sky Park and learn about the unique plants and animals adapted to this environment.

Na Pali Coast, Hawaii : This travel bucket list destination is a remote and stunning coastline on the island of Kauai, featuring towering sea cliffs, lush valleys and pristine beaches accessible by hiking or boat tours.

South American Travel Bucket List Destinations

Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca), Peru : Similar to Utah’s rainbow mountains, Vinicunca offers colorful striations of mineral deposits, creating a stunning natural canvas of vibrant hues at high altitudes in the Andes.

Iguazu Falls, Argentina and Brazil : Iguazu Falls is one of the world’s most magnificent waterfalls and spans the border between Argentina and Brazil. The thundering cascades and lush surrounding rainforest create an awe-inspiring spectacle for travelers to witness.

Galapagos Islands, Ecuador : This volcanic archipelago in the Pacific Ocean is renowned for its unique wildlife and landscapes. Visitors can encounter diverse species, including giant tortoises, marine iguanas and blue-footed boobies.

Patagonia, Chile and Argentina : This region boasts breathtaking landscapes, including the awe-inspiring Torres del Paine National Park in Chile and the Perito Moreno Glacier in Argentina, offering stunning vistas and diverse ecosystems.

Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia : The world’s largest salt flat, Salar de Uyuni, presents a surreal landscape during the rainy season when it transforms into a giant mirror, reflecting the sky.

Amazon Rainforest, Brazil, Peru, Colombia : The world’s largest tropical rainforest, the Amazon, is a biodiversity hotspot offering unparalleled opportunities for wildlife encounters and exploration of lush, dense jungles.

Angel Falls, Venezuela : The world’s highest uninterrupted waterfall, Angel Falls cascades from the Auyán-Tepuí mountain in Canaima National Park, surrounded by breathtaking tepui plateaus.

Atacama Desert, Chile : Known as one of the driest places on Earth, the Atacama Desert features stunning salt flats, geysers, colorful rock formations, and an otherworldly, lunar-like landscape.

Easter Island (Rapa Nui), Chile : Famous for its monumental Moai statues, Easter Island offers a unique blend of mysterious archaeological sites, volcanic landscapes, and Polynesian culture.

Pantanal Wetlands, Brazil : The world’s largest tropical wetland area, the Pantanal, is a wildlife paradise where visitors can spot diverse species, including jaguars, caimans, and capybaras.

European Travel Bucket List Destinations

Santorini, Greece : Santorini is a volcanic island in the Cyclades group of Greek islands in the Aegean Sea. The Greek city is famous for its stunning sunsets, white-washed buildings with blue domes and dramatic cliffs overlooking the Aegean Sea. The sunsets in Santorini are particularly famous for their breathtaking beauty. Visitors can explore charming villages like Oia and Fira, visit ancient sites like Akrotiri, enjoy stunning beaches, and savor the local cuisine and wines.

Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia : Situated in central Croatia, this national park is renowned for its chain of 16 terraced lakes interconnected by waterfalls. The turquoise lakes, cascading waterfalls, and lush forests create a stunning natural landscape. The park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Northern Lights, Scandinavia : Witness the mesmerizing Aurora Borealis in regions like Norway, Sweden and Finland during the winter months. These are the only places during this specific time of year when you can see these colorful displays in the night sky.

Alhambra, Spain : Alhambra is a palace and fortress complex in Granada, Spain. This UNESCO World Heritage Site showcases stunning Moorish architecture, intricate courtyards, beautiful gardens like the Generalife, and the Nasrid Palaces. Visitors can explore the Alhambra’s various sections, including the Alcazaba fortress, the Palace of Carlos V, and the Generalife gardens. It’s the perfect travel bucket list destination for history lovers.

Fairy Pools, Isle of Skye, Scotland : The Fairy Pools are a series of crystal-clear pools fed by waterfalls located in the Scottish Highlands on the Isle of Skye. Surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery, these natural pools offer a magical and picturesque setting, perfect for hiking and photography.

Cinque Terre, Italy : Cinque Terre is a string of five colorful fishing villages perched on cliffs overlooking the Ligurian Sea, connected by scenic trails and offering breathtaking views.

The Swiss Alps, Switzerland : The Swiss Alps cover a significant portion of Switzerland, offering majestic mountain landscapes and pristine lakes. It is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering majestic mountain peaks, pristine lakes and charming villages amid stunning alpine scenery.

Plaza de España, Seville, Spain : Plaza de España is an architectural masterpiece featuring a stunning semi-circular building adorned with colorful tiles, bridges and a beautiful central fountain.

The Blue Lagoon, Iceland : The Blue Lagoon is a geothermal spa located in a lava field in Grindavík, Iceland. The milky-blue, mineral-rich waters of the lagoon are renowned for their healing aura and surreal beauty. The surrounding volcanic landscape adds to the unique experience. Visitors can relax in the geothermal waters, apply silica mud masks and enjoy various spa treatments while surrounded by the otherworldly scenery.

Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany : Neuschwanstein Castle is a fairytale-like castle nestled in the Bavarian Alps, known for its picturesque setting, towers and opulent interiors.

African Travel Bucket List Destinations

Serengeti National Park, Tanzania : The Serengeti spans approximately 12,000 square miles and is located in northern Tanzania. Renowned for its vast savannas, the park is famous for the annual Great Migration of wildebeest and zebras, as well as its diverse wildlife, including the “Big Five” (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, rhino). Visitors can experience game drives, hot air balloon safaris and, of course, witness the incredible wildlife and stunning landscapes.

Victoria Falls, Zambia/Zimbabwe : Victoria Falls is one of the largest waterfalls in the world and a thundering curtain of water plunging into the Zambezi River, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. Visitors can view the falls from various vantage points, take boat cruises and engage in adrenaline-pumping activities.

Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya : This reserve is famous for its diverse wildlife and known as the backdrop to the Great Migration, offering thrilling safari adventures and another opportunity to see the “Big Five.”

Pyramids of Giza, Egypt : This is an iconic archaeological site featuring the Great Pyramid of Giza, the Sphinx and several ancient tombs, showcasing the grandeur of ancient Egyptian civilization.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Uganda : Bwindi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site situated in southwestern Uganda. It’s home to endangered mountain gorillas and is known for its dense forests and mountainous terrain. Gorilla trekking experiences allow visitors to observe these magnificent primates in their natural habitat.

Namib Desert, Namibia : Namib Desert is the oldest desert in the world, characterized by vast red sand dunes, striking landscapes and the surreal beauty of Sossusvlei. Visitors can explore the dunes, including Dune 45 and Big Daddy, enjoy sunrise/sunset views and visit unique sites like Deadvlei, a clay pan with ancient, dead trees.

Table Mountain, South Africa : Table Mountain is a prominent landmark overlooking Cape Town in South Africa. Here travelers are offered panoramic views of the city, coastline and the opportunity for hiking and outdoor activities.

Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania : The Ngorongoro Crater is a UNESCO World Heritage Site situated in northern Tanzania. The crater is a natural amphitheater, home to a dense concentration of wildlife, including lions, elephants and rhinos. It offers stunning scenery and a diverse ecosystem.

Okavango Delta, Botswana : The Okavango Delta located in northern Botswana is the world’s largest inland delta. Here the Okavango River fans out to create a labyrinth of water channels, attracting abundant wildlife and offering scenic boat safaris.

Marrakech, Morocco: This vibrant city is a cultural hub with its bustling souks, stunning palaces like the Bahia Palace and the lively Jemaa el-Fnaa square, offering a sensory experience of sights, sounds and flavors.

Asian Travel Bucket List Destinations

Taj Mahal, India : This iconic white marble mausoleum in Agra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of love, renowned for its stunning architecture and intricate craftsmanship.

Great Wall of China, China : Spanning thousands of miles, this ancient wonder winds through rugged landscapes, offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into China’s history.

Angkor Wat, Cambodia : The largest religious monument in the world, this ancient temple complex and UNESCO World Heritage Site in Siem Reap is a marvel of Khmer architecture and a testament to Cambodia’s rich history. Visitors can explore the temple complex, climb to the top for panoramic views, and witness stunning sunrise or sunset views.

Mount Everest, Nepal : Mount Everest in Nepal is a classic and iconic travel bucket list destination. It is the world’s highest peak and attracts adventurers and climbers from around the globe. Even witnessing it from nearby regions provides awe-inspiring views.

Borobudur, Indonesia : This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the largest Buddhist temple in the world, adorned with intricate stone carvings and surrounded by lush landscapes. Visitors can explore the temple’s levels, admire the detailed reliefs depicting Buddhist teachings and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.

The Maldives : The Maldives is an island nation in the Indian Ocean with crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, vibrant coral reefs and overwater bungalows, offering unparalleled snorkeling, diving and relaxation.

Petra, Jordan : This ancient city carved into rose-red cliffs is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcasing impressive rock-cut architecture including the Treasury and Monastery, reflecting the ancient Nabatean civilization’s craftsmanship. Visitors can explore the ancient city through the Siq (narrow canyon), discover tombs, temples, amphitheaters and appreciate the historical significance of Petra.

Kyoto, Japan : Kyoto is a city in central Japan steeped in tradition and culture, featuring historic temples, serene gardens like the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and traditional tea houses. Visitors can immerse themselves in traditional Japanese culture, participate in tea ceremonies, explore historic districts like Gion and visit iconic temples and gardens.

Bagan, Myanmar : Bagan is an ancient city located in central Myanmar known for its archaeological sites. It boasts over 2,000 temples and pagodas dating back to the 9th century. The area showcases stunning architecture, religious monuments and beautiful landscapes. Visitors can explore the temples by bike or hot air balloon, witness sunrise or sunset views and appreciate the cultural and historical significance of Bagan.

Cappadocia, Turkey : Known for its fairy chimneys, rock formations and underground cities, Cappadocia offers a surreal and otherworldly atmosphere. Hot air balloon rides over the landscape are particularly popular. Visitors can explore the rock-cut churches, hike through valleys, take hot air balloon flights and experience the region’s rich history and geological wonders.