From flamboyant festivals to bedazzling beaches to rainforests rich in biodiversity, Brazil is a country in a league of its own. Plan your trip with this Brazil Travel Guide.Â
As the largest country in South America (and I’m talking four-time-zones-kinda-big), Brazil has long been a top destination for beachgoers, party seekers, and nature lovers. The country’s appeal is largely rooted in its lush landscapes and warm weather, as many flock to experience its relaxed, colloquial vibe.Â
In fact, some consider Brazil to be one of the most beautiful countries in the world – and I couldn’t agree more.Â
Allure aside, for some, travelling to Brazil may seem a little daunting. So, in order to help you prepare for your upcoming trip, I’m here to give you all the juicy details, tips, and advice you’ll need to have the most memorable time.Â
If you’re after warm, balmy beach days, travel to Brazil from December to March. For milder temperatures and fewer crowds, head over in September, October, or November.Â
Perhaps what’s drawing you to Brazil is the biggest carnival in the world. The Rio de Janeiro Carnival takes place annually for five days right before Lent (usually in February).Â
As Rio City’s crown jewel, Ipanema is a charming neighbourhood that’s home to some of the best restaurants in the south of the city, plus the iconic namesake beach. Stay at the Arena Ipanema Hotel.Â
Buzios is a rustic yet sophisticated boutique beach town about 100 miles east of Rio City. Its fantastic array of restaurants are mainly featured on the picturesque Rua das Pedras street. Stay at the Eny Boutique Hotel and Spa.Â
Pelourinho is the perfect area to stay in if you’re after a historic feel with colourful buildings and cobblestone streets. The neighbourhood is always lively with local musicians and artists. Stay at Hotel Villa Bahia.Â
Jardins is an upper-class area of Sao Paulo that’s known for its leafy streets, upscale eateries, and chic fashion boutiques. It’s a fantastic taste of Brazilian city life. Stay at H4 La Residence Paulista.Â
Travel in Brazil can be a little risky, so in case of theft, accidents, or illnesses, it’s always important to have travel insurance. Plus, Brazil’s private hospitals won’t admit you if you don’t have proper funds or proof of insurance.Â
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It’d be sacrilege if you went to Brazil and didn’t delve into the Amazon! A three or four-day Amazon jungle tour is the perfect way to experience real Brazil. You’ll spot river dolphins, visit native families, and stay overnight in the Ipanema River area in a floating guest house.Â
No travels in Brazil are complete without a visit to Rio de Janeiro. From mountainous peaks to lush forests and gorgeous beaches, Rio has it all.Â
After witnessing Christ the Redeemer and ascending Sugarloaf Mountain, head out on a Rio de Janeiro sunset sailing tour for spectacular views. Â
With green seas and white sand beaches, the peaceful car-free Ilha Grande is one of Brazil’s most beautiful islands. It’s a top destination if you’re after idyllic shorelines and lush island landscapes.Â
Spot sea turtles in the shallow waters of Lagoa Azul, or, if you’re up for a sweaty hike, trek to Dois Rios to see the abandoned prison reclaimed by nature.Â
The city of Foz do Iguaçu lies on the border of the majestic Iguaçu Falls, one of the world’s largest waterfalls and the real attraction here. For an unforgettable (and wet!) close-up with the cascades, consider an Iguaçu Falls tour – you’ll be in awe of this thunderous wonder.Â
Distinguished by its sleek, modern architecture and unique aeroplane shape, the nation’s capital, Brasilia – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – is home to many famous landmarks in Brazil.Â
Still not convinced? Explore the Palacio das Artes followed by some local cuisine and shopping at Belo Horizonte market.Â
With unbeatable beaches, a unique Afro-Brazilian culture, and top-notch nightlife, Salvador is a must for any Brazilian itinerary. Here, you’ll find colourful neighbourhood plazas and quaint souvenir markets just waiting for exploration.Â
There’s a lot to see as you venture out on a Salvador half-day tour, from the Elevador Lacerda to the BasÃlica do Senhor do Bonfim.Â
The stylish city of São Paulo is Brazil’s largest mega-metropolis. With its gigantic size comes a mind-blowing cultural diversity, beautifully designed skyscrapers, and a fantastic range of restaurants, galleries, shops, and events.Â
Quite literally the greatest (and largest) show on earth, and definitely worth its own mention, is the Rio de Janeiro Carnival. With two million people on the streets per day, you can expect electrifying street parties and parades.Â
7 daysÂ
São Paulo – Salvador – Rio de JaneiroÂ
This trip will leave you with a taste of Brazil’s exuberant culture through three of its urban delights.Â
14 days
Rio de Janeiro – Ilha Grande – Paraty – Iguazu Falls – São PauloÂ
Experience the best of Brazil’s metropolitan cities, plus see some of the country’s most sought-after beaches and natural attractions.Â
21 daysÂ
Salvador – Porto de Galinhas – Natal – Fernando de Noronha – Fortaleza – Barreirinhas – São LuÃs – Bragança
If you’re after less tourists, untouched beaches, and quaint colonial towns, follow this route along Brazil’s north and northeastern coast.Â
28 days
Salvador – Morro de São Paulo – Boipeba – Itacaré – Itaúnas – Ouro Preto – Rio de Janeiro – Paraty – Ilhabela – Ihla do Mel – Florianópolis
Fully immerse yourself in southern Brazil with the perfect combination of small beach villages, bustling cities, and some of Brazil’s top attractions.Â
The small archipelago of Fernando de Noronha sits about 217 miles off Brazil’s northern coast. It’s an ecological sanctuary and one of the best scuba diving spots in the world. Keep your eyes peeled for gentle lemon sharks and angelic White terns.Â
An absolute feast for the eyes, Lençóis Maranhenses is a national park in northeastern Brazil. If you’re presuming dense forests, think again.Â
Once here, you’ll find a collection of rainwater lagoons – perfect for swimming to escape the heat – amongst vast, white sand dunes.Â
Ouro Preto is a picturesque little colonial town on the slopes of the Espinhaço Mountains. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s defined by its rich history (no pun intended – this town rests on a gold mine) and brilliant baroque architecture.Â
You can only reach most of the Amazon via extensive travel by boat – except, however, Presidente Figueiredo. Just a 40-minute drive from Rio, experience a full day at the waterfalls while immersing yourself in Amazonian beauty.Â
Fortunately, Brazil has copious amounts to do – absolutely free of charge! You’ll definitely need your comfortable trainers, though, as these activities require lots of walking and exploring by foot.Â
Museo Afro Brasil in Sao Paulo offers free admission, as does the Museum of Modern Art of Bahia in Salvador. Visit the Lapa and Santa Teresa neighbourhoods in Rio for some mind-blowing street art.Â
Apart from museums and galleries, Brazil also has a ton of free national parks to explore such as Tijuca National Park in Rio and Â
Feijoada – Black bean stew with beef or pork.Â
Vatapá – Creamy shrimp stew with peanuts and coconut milk.
Brigadiero – Decadent chocolate balls made with condensed milk.
Açaà na tigela – The original Brazilian açaà bowl topped with banana and granola.
Caipirinha – Brazil’s national cocktail made with cachaça, sugar, and lime.
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