Experts in Tailor-Made
Brazil Tours
Things to Do in Brazil
For art lovers, head to Belo Horizonte for Inhotim, a large open-air modern art museum, and then stop by some of architect Oscar Niemeyer’s famous works in Sao Paulo. If historically picturesque colonial towns are more to your taste, visit Ouro Preto, Tiradentes, and Congonhas in the Brazilian countryside. There are plenty of things to do in the cities and regions of Brazil - now is the time to start exploring.
As South America’s largest country, there are so many things to do and see in Brazil! We encourage travelers to go beyond well-known activities and destinations. After all, with a third of the world’s rainforests, a vast coastline of serene beaches (unknown and practically untouched!), colorful flora and fauna, picturesque colonial towns, and incredible metropoles, there is an abundance waiting to be explored. For nature enthusiasts looking at Brazil vacation packages, consider a scenic train ride through the Atlantic Rainforest, a cruise along the Amazon River, or an exploration of Rio’s Tijuca Rainforest - an easy escape from the city center.
Places to Visit in Brazil
It’s challenging to name the best destinations in Brazil, as there are so many beautiful and unique points scattered throughout the country. While some Brazil vacations solely focus on the well-known cities and areas, such as Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, Brasilia, the Brazilian Amazon, and Iguazu Falls, we encourage travelers to explore the many incredible destinations beyond those that have earned iconic status. One great area is Minas Gerais (the countryside of Brazil), where travelers can find some of the most charming colonial towns nestled into the rolling green hills.
Three traveler favorites are Ouro Preto, Tiradentes, and Congonhas, all designated as UNESCO World Heritage sites. Each city is full of enchantment with its baroque-style churches, cobblestone streets, and local art galleries. Additionally, Belo Horizonte, the capital of Minas Gerais, is a powerhouse city located about an hour away from one of the most fascinating open-air art museums: Inhotim. For those looking for wildlife, the Pantanal Wetlands is the best destination for you as spotting birds and adventuring on photo safaris gives travelers a better chance to see wildlife compared to the Amazon.
Rio de Janeiro
Often when travelers think of a tour of Brazil, Rio de Janeiro is the first destination that comes to mind, and for good reason. Marvelous Rio de Janeiro always exceeds even the highest expectations of travelers. On any of our Rio de Janeiro tours, see its panoramic views from Sugarloaf and Corcovado, the surrounding opulent Tijuca forest, South America’s oldest botanical garden, Burle Marx’ playful landscaping, and Copacabana and Ipanema’s white-sand beaches. The city leaves explorers with an indelible memory of Brazil’s landscape and culture. Enjoy a traditional Brazilian beef churrascaria, fruity caipirinha, and evening of samba during one of our Brazil travel packages.
Ilha Grande
Ravel packages to Brazil don’t have to be all about big cities. If city life isn’t the vibe you’re looking for, head south towards Ilha Grande. You’ll go from bustling city life to serenely quiet beaches. In fact, you’ll be hard-pressed to even spot a car on the island. It’s a great escape for those looking to truly kick back and relax. While enjoying your stay in Ilha Grande, be sure to check out the blue lagoon and Lopes Mendes, one of the most famous beaches in Brazil. If you’re looking for a bit of civilization, you can always pop into Vila Abraão, the main village on the island. Here you’ll be greeted by cheerful locals, local vendors, and quaint outdoor restaurants.
Fernando de Noronha
Vacations to Brazil often include stops or days of relaxation at some of Brazil’s world-famous beaches. From the northeast’s sand dunes and stylish beach towns to Rio’s famed Copacabana and Ipanema beaches, there is a beach for everyone. In northern Brazil, visit Fernando de Noronha – the volcanic archipelago off the coast of Brazil offers ideal snorkeling and diving and is home to over 400 different species.
Atlantic Rainforest & Curitiba
While the Amazon Rainforest is a well-known entity, you don’t hear nearly as much about the Atlantic Rainforest. A UNESCO World Heritage Site and hiker’s paradise, this incredibly diverse ecosystem has more tree species than the Amazon, a whopping 450 to be precise. While exploring the Atlantic Rainforest, you may start your journey from the nearby city of Curitiba, one of the best cities in Brazil.
Curitiba itself is encompassed by the Atlantic Rainforest and offers one of the most scenic train rides through the rainforest itself. Aside from taking the train out of Curitiba, you can embark on a hike through the rainforest and camp there as well. When immersed within the forest, you’ll spot exotic wildlife and vegetation you’ve never seen before. It’s utterly enchanting and a must-see aspect while traveling Brazil.
Salvador da Bahia
If you’re looking to dive into the cultural heart of Brazil, Salvador da Bahia is a great place to start. Established shortly after the Portuguese arrival in Brazil in 1500, the city’s center, Pelourinho, is Brazil’s first UNESCO heritage site. On one of our tailored Brazil trip packages, you can explore the once capital of Brazil and it’s distinct historic charm. The streets are always buzzing with activity and you’ll have the chance to indulge in the amazing Afro-Brazilian cuisine. From capoeira street performers to hiking the highlands beyond the city, there’s never a shortage of things to do Salvador da Bahia.
Top Brazil Destinations
On our Brazil trips, we recommend visiting all of Brazil’s travel destinations and hidden gems. Check out some
of our favorite vacation spots in Brazil below.
Popular Itineraries for Touring in Brazil
The Colonial Gems & Historic Cities in Brazil is a favorite trip to Brazil as it takes visitors beyond the well-known destinations to culturally rich colonial towns in the countryside of Minas Gerais state as well as the sprawling open-air art museum of Inhotim near Belo Horizonte. This vibrant Brazil vacation package includes five UNESCO World Heritage sites, plus jagged green landscapes, historic baroque churches, white-sand beaches, and charming rural towns lined with cobblestoned streets.
Encompassing nearly half of the South American continent, combining Portuguese-speaking Brazil with one or more of the nine Spanish-speaking countries is a great idea and brings the diversity of the region to life. With our travel partners in the other countries of South America, we can offer you travel solutions for the whole journey in South America.
Brazil Travel FAQ's
Thinking about a Brazil trip? Here’s a list of frequently asked questions we often hear from our guests.
Visit our Brazil Info page for in-depth Brazil travel tips.
What is the best time to visit Brazil?
The best time to visit Brazil is from September to November. During this time the temperatures are mild, there aren’t as many tourists, and hotels are at an ideal price. Then again, due to Brazil’s agreeable, tropical climate, any season of the year is a fantastic time to explore the country’s highlights.
Keep in mind that while Brazil is notably a warm destination, it is also a vast country with various regions which may lead to slightly different climates and seasons. However, generally speaking, Brazil’s winter (June – August) is off-season and typically results in fewer crowds in major cities and towns, with less humidity and thus bluer skies. The summer (December – March) is coined as the high-season, featuring lively beaches, events, and numerous cultural festivities, like the famous Carnival. As for Brazil’s other popular regions, including the Amazon, the seasons can have little impact, offering unique tours and experiences throughout the year
Is Brazil safe to visit?
Yes, Brazil is safe to visit! However, as in any other country there are pockets where crime concentrates. Just like at home, where you don’t tend to visit certain parts of a city, you won’t stumble upon these places in Brazil as a tourist. Additionally, your guides know where to go – and where not to go!
What is the food like in Brazil? Is it safe?
The traditional food in Brazil was made for the hard working: Lots of carbohydrates and proteins. Meats and potatoes, manioc, rice, and beans. Restaurants nowadays are far more creative! Also, you’ll see all those ingredients that were used in Brazil before the Europeans arrived. Breakfast is full of tropical fruits. However, that delicious fresh salad you crave might be suspiciously absent from menus. Lots of green vegetables like kale, yes, but rarely a fresh salad because that is not considered safe food. Everything else is cooked and safe. Vegan and vegetarian options are found more and more. São Paulo has a very sophisticated restaurant scene! Rio de Janeiro is more traditional.
Is Brazil a good destination for honeymooners?
Yes! Brazilians are very romantic and there are boundless options! We listen to your preferences but we do like to mention there are romantic beaches far away from all the crowds or suggest a beach or mountain bungalow just for you. Typically, newly-weds choose to take a tour through Brazil and end up at one of those destinations.
How do I plan a trip to Brazil?
Plan a trip to Brazil by talking to one of our highly specialized travel consultants! Remember, it is all about you: Tell them about your preferences, bucket list places or activities you would like to do. The travel consultant will then propose an itinerary made just for you!
What is the best Brazil Tour?
Brazil is as big a country as the United States. So, the best tour is one that combines your interests into a comprehensive tour without trying to pack everything into one big tour itinerary.
Nature, wildlife, adventure, arts, architecture, and history. Brazil has it all. Regardless of your interests, there is a perfect tour for you! Talk to a Brazil travel specialist and let them know what your preferences are. Travel consultants who specialize only in South America go beyond customizing a trip, they will find and recommend what fits you best. They’ll talk with you about past travel experiences, your travel style, and then go from there.
Do I need vaccinations for Brazil?
Yes, all those you need at home and a few more to stay healthy in Brazil, especially a Yellow Fever vaccination. Without the certificate of Yellow Fever vaccination, you will not be allowed to travel on to some other countries. If you are over the age of 60, or you cannot have the vaccination for other reason, it is likely your doctor will be able to issue you with an exception. Then you bring that exemption instead of the certificate along with you. For visits to the Amazon, malaria prophylaxis is highly recommended as well.
Your travel consultants can steer you into the right direction, but ultimately only your doctor using current information from the World Health Organization and the Centers for Disease Control can decide. In case anything happens to you, you will (as a foreigner) always be taken to the nearest private hospital. All private hospitals deliver comparable care to your hospitals at home. In case of tropical diseases, they are much better prepared!
How much does it cost to travel to Brazil?
Flights from the U.S. typically range between 500 and 900 USD, depending on the season, with European flights approximately 50% more. Apart from flights, Brazil is a backpacker’s paradise and also a destination for luxury. So, again, your overall cost really depends on what you can budget. It is recommended to stay a minimum of two to three weeks in Brazil as the country is enormous and you’ve already spent good money on the airfare alone.
We also recommend combining Brazil with other countries in South America. A popular combination includes Rio, Iguaçu Falls, and Peru. Another popular option is Rio, Iguazu Falls, and Argentina. Those two-country combinations will only set you back – traveling in good comfort – around 3000 to 4000 USD plus airfare.
