places to visit south brazil

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10 Most Amazing Destinations in Southern Brazil

By Fiona Fiorentino · Last updated on November 2, 2023

Long a favorite getaway spot for residents of Brazil, Argentina and Paraguay, the southern tip of the Brazil is fast becoming a popular destination for visitors from every corner of the globe. With attractions that range from pristine beaches and awe-inspiring waterfalls to historic ruins and modern museums, it’s easy to understand the region’s growing appeal. Exploring the relatively small area is surprisingly easy as well. Largely inhabited by people of European descent, most destinations in Southern Brazil boast a high standard of living, a strong infrastructure and a well-developed hospitality industry. With its temperate climate, delightful cuisine and abundance of recreational activities, Southern Brazil a wonderful place to spend a memorable vacation.

10. Porto Alegre [SEE MAP]

The state capital of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre is situated along the banks of Guaiba estuary where five rivers spill into a mammoth freshwater lagoon. The large metropolis is one of the prosperous in Brazil, and it’s one of the most culturally rich cities as well. With its expansive collection of photographs and archeological artifacts, the Joaquim José Felizardo Museum is a must-see for any visitor interested in the city’s historic past. Unfortunately, crime levels in the city are concerning and the downtown area is clearly seedy, even during the day.

9. Balneario Camboriu [SEE MAP]

Nestled against steep hills on the coast of Santa Catarina state, Balneário Camboriú is one of the most popular beach resorts in Southern Brazil. Often compared to Copacabana, the city features a long line of high-rise hotels, clubs and bars that stretches along the entire length of the arcing shoreline. Like Rio de Janeiro, Balneário Camboriú has a large-scale statue of Christ standing atop a hill overlooking the city. A complex with restaurants, shops and playgrounds are clustered around the base of the 10-story-high statue. Known for its lively nightlife, Balneário Camboriú boasts family-friendly attractions too, including a zoo, aquarium and a botanical garden.

8. Sao Miguel das Missoes [SEE MAP]

Located in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, the small town of São Miguel das Missões is home to what remains of the 17th-century mission of the same name. The picturesque ruins are the best preserved of the seven Jesuit missions that were built in the land of the Guaranis during the 17th and 18th centuries, in order to convert the natives to Christianity. Now protected as part of an historic park, São Miguel is prized for the beauty of its surroundings as well as for the mission’s graceful architectural style. Statuary unearthed in archeological digs is on display at the nearby Mission Museum, which was designed by renowned Brasilia architect Lucío Costa.

7. Blumenau [SEE MAP]

Located in the state of Santa Catarina, Blumenau was largely settled by Germans in the 1800s, and its old-world Bavarian atmosphere is still its star attraction. The city’s Oktoberfest is the biggest in Brazil, filled with beer-drinking street parties that rival Rio de Janeiro’s Carnaval in size. Blumenau’s German-inspired cuisine and architecture, however, attract sightseers year round. Charming half-timbered buildings abound in the quaint Vila Germânica historic district where German bands play and eateries serve everything from hot dogs to smoked pork chops and ham hocks.

6. Aparados da Serra National Park [SEE MAP]

Encompassing broad swaths of land along the border between the states of Rio Grande do Sul and Santa Catarina, Brazil’s first national park was established to protect the region’s spectacular canyons. The breathtaking Itaimbezinho is the park’s main attraction. A short walk from the visitor center leads to the rim of this canyon, offering views of seasonal waterfalls plunging into the deep valley below. During the dry season, hardy adventurers can hire a professional guide and spend an entire day tramping along the river bed that runs through the canyon’s base.

5. Curitiba [SEE MAP]

The capital of the state of Paraná and its largest city, Curitiba is both a jumping-off point for excursions in the area and a city worth exploring in its own right. With its extensive public transportation system, pedestrian-only zones and abundance of green spaces, Curitiba is considered a model of environmental sustainability. Curitiba boasts restored historic architecture like the Old City Hall and the colonial buildings of Largo da Ordem. To take in some natural beauty, visit the Botanical Garden where you can stroll through the palace-like greenhouses, the labyrinthine French gardens and the Botanical Museum.

4. Ilha do Mel [SEE MAP]

The coastline of Southern Brazil features hundreds of beautiful beaches, but few compare to the pristine stretches sand found on Ilha do Mel. Thanks to its designation as an ecologically protected zone, the island located off the shores of the state of Paraná remains untouched by modern development. No cars are allowed on Ilha do Mel, but the island is crisscrossed with a network of foot paths and trails. The number of daily visitors is limited too, ensuring that everyone enjoys an uncrowded experience. When not sunning, swimming or surfing, a scenic lighthouse, grotto and 18th-century Portuguese fort located on the island invite exploration.

3. Morretes [SEE MAP]

Located on the banks of the Rio Nhundiaquara in the state of Paraná, Morretes offers visitors a picturesque view of life in colonial Southern Brazil. Many of the structures built here during the 1700s remain largely intact, particularly those along the cobblestone promenade that parallels the river. The colonial town is best known for its restaurants and for the local dish barreado, a tasty meat stew cooked in a ceramic pot. Morretes is often visited as a side strip from Curitiba, and the popular Paranagua-Curitiba Railway tour passes through the town as well.

2. Florianopolis [SEE MAP]

Founded as a port city by the Portuguese in the 1700s, Florianópolis is best known today for the beautiful island of Santa Catarina that lies within the city’s boundaries. More than 40 sandy beaches hug the shores of this resort island, offering endless opportunities for water sports from surfing and scuba diving to parasailing and sand-boarding. Connected to the ocean by a canal, the Lagoa da Conceição is a popular destination too. Gorgeous views make the large saltwater lagoon the perfect spot for leisurely strolls. The island’s best restaurants, shops and night spots are found in this upscale area too.

1. Foz do Iguacu [SEE MAP]

No visit to Southern Brazil is complete without a visit to the majestic Iguaçu Falls located at the point where the borders of Brazil, Argentina and Paraguay meet. Located just a short drive from Foz do Iguaçu, the nearest city, the mammoth waterfall has been described as “Niagra on Viagra.” Depending on the season, between 275 and 350 falls tumble together in tiered cascades over the steep cliffs in a thunderous roar. Hiking trails offer panoramic vistas of the falls and close-up views of the lush forest fed by the constant spray. Boat rides take thrill-seeking passengers near to the base of some of the falls.

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Reader interactions.

February 1, 2021 at 5:14 pm

Just read your list of places in Southern Brazil. It’s an excellent article. But I can’t believe you left out GRAMADO!

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South Brazil Itinerary: travel through the REAL South

When you think about Brazilian destinations to travel to, the country’s south portion is rarely brought up to discussion , mainly because most tourists are unaware that it is a destination that pleases every taste and will most likely provide you some amazing moments.

In the real south of Brazil, You can visit the exquisite beaches in Florianópolis, explore nature’s wild in Foz de Iguaçu , be amazed by the great flower fields in Joinville, and even have a full-German gastronomic experience in Gramado .

In this post, we’ll be taking a look at some major points of interest if you’re keen on the idea of getting to know the real south of Brazil . We’ll go over some of the touristic attractions, the highlights in each of them, and what’s the best time to visit , in case you want to start planning.

To facilitate your planning, w e’re going to sort out our itinerary based on the region’s leading states (Santa Catarina, Paraná, and Rio Grande do Sul), listing the cities and places you need to know in each one of them.

Santa Catarina (SC)

Even though it has over 500 shores in its whole state territory, Santa Catarina can’t be limited to just a beach destination . Here are the top destinations you should consider in Santa Catarina.

Florianópolis

With an extensive coastline and a nice mix of hype and deserted beaches, Florianópolis is one of Brazil’s major beach locations , leaving nothing to be desired to the famous Rio de Janeiro shores.

Aside from the beautiful coastal landscape, Florianópolis also offers open-air activities, museums, city markets, and historical touristic spots . It’s a great spot to enjoy by yourself, with a companion or a group.

Best Time To Visit Florianópolis: March and April

What to do in Florianópolis:

• Visit the Cruz e Souza Palace
• Visit the Santo Antônio de Lisboa village
• Take the boat ride at Lagoa da Conceição
• Take the Floripa By Bus city tour around town

Best Beaches to Visit in Florianópolis:

• Joaquina beach
• Daniela beach
• Moçambique beach
• Ingleses beach

Balneário Camboriú

Being dubbed as the “Brazilian Dubai” by locals (due to the landscape filled with skyscrapers), Balneário Camboriú is an amalgam of big-city energy, laidback beach vibes, and a very agitated nightlife .

The city’s electronic music scene grew so prominent in the past years that in 2012, Forbes magazine wrote a piece on it, calling Balneário Camboriú Brazil’s EDM capital .

Best Time To Visit Balneário Camboriú: between December and February

What to do in Balneário Camboriú?

• Take the cableway at Parque Unipraias to get to the observatories
• Take the Pirate Ship tour
• Go to the Beto Carreiro theme park
• Go to the city’s most famous clubs, such as Tribus Bar and Club 1007

Rio Grande do Sul (RS)

Having Santa Catarina as its neighbor state, Rio Grande do Sul is the birthplace of the famous traditional Brazilian barbecue , which we’ve covered in this mouth-watering post . Here are the places that’ll make you fall in love with Rio Grande do Sul:

We’ve mentioned Gramado while going over the places you could go to see snow while in Brazil. Still, this city is so much more than a chilly haven down south, having even been elected as one of the country’s favorite destinations.

Like most locations in the south of Brazil, Gramado has close ties with the German culture , mainly because this portion of the country was colonized by the Germans back in the day. Over the years, Gramado has maintained this bond, which the city’s architecture and cuisine can easily validate .

Best Time to Visit Gramado : from July to September

What to do in Gramado:

• Take the city tour through the touristic spots and the Mini Mundo tour
• Spend the day at Canela, a neighbor city
• Go skiing in Snow Land
• Visit the gardens and parks, like GramadoZoo and Parque Gaúcho

Porto Alegre

Porto Alegre is the capital city of Rio Grande do Sul and one of Brazil’s most forested areas. Greenfields like Parcão and Redenção Parks are just a few of the many places you can relax, exercise, and even plan a nice picnic if you’re into it.

The city also houses one of the most important theaters in the country, the São Pedro Theater, built in the mid-1850s and still is the stage of performances, orchestras, and plays.

Best Time to go to Porto Alegre: between March and June

What to do in Porto Alegre?

• Take the city tour on a double-decker bus
• Visit the city’s Mercado Público building
• Eat at one of the oldest Brazilian restaurants, the Gambrinus
• Visit the Brique Fair, every Sunday on the Redenção Park

Paraná (PR)

Foz do iguaçu.

Housing one of the World’s Seven Wonders, the Iguaçu Waterfalls, Foz do Iguaçu is a destination for nature lovers and outdoor aficionados . Besides the cataracts marvel, you can also visit safaris and natural parks and do all things nature-related .

With a territory that embraces a part of Brazil, Argentina, and Paraguay , Foz do Iguaçu can also be viewed as the middle ground to all 3 countries, making it easy to pay a quick visit to each one of them if you’re up to it .

Best Time to Visit Foz do Iguaçu: from June to August

What to do in Foz do Iguaçu :

• Visit the Three Frontiers Landmark
• Visit the Iguaçu Waterfalls both on the Brazilian and Argentinian sides
• Visit the Chen Tien Budist Temple and the Muslin mosque
• Take the Macuco Safari tour

Having once held the title of “ world’s capital of coffee ,” Londrina is the ultimate place to eat and drink very well while visiting Brazil’s real south portion .

The city has great vineyards with artisanal wine tasting, award-winning restaurants that serve the most delicious meals, and of course, an amazing cup of coffee . The city’s chilly temperatures are a perfect match for this gastronomic trip.

Best Time to Visit Londrina: between May and July

What to do in Londrina:

• Visit the city’s Botanical Gardens.
• Visit the  Casa Müller  Vineyard
• Have a nice cup of coffee at the Marabu Farm
• Visit the Igapó I and II lakes.

Well, that’s it for our quick tour of the main cities you should include on your itinerary while visiting the south side of Brazil! As you can see, this part of the Brazilian country offers many options for every type of trip, so take your time planning and come down to visit 😉

While you’re here, we thought we’d might interest you with these:

All you need to know about snow in Brazil – Does it snow in Brazil? Can you go skiing or build a snowman? Read up and find out!

5 Vacation Ideas In Brazil For All Kinds Of Travelers – If you have a hard time making travel arrangements that will please everyone, look no further; we got you!

Can I Go To A Casino In Rio? – make your bets and roll the dice! Can you gamble in the city of wonders?

Cover Image: Sur da Ilha – Florianópolis | Credit: Pxhere

Bruno Reguffe

What's up, everyone! I'm Bruno, and I'm a nutritionist living in Rio de Janeiro. I've been a longtime friend of Ana's, and I'm excited to help her expand on all things Brazilian with y'all, as well as sharing some of our culture and a few personal experiences while living in the country!

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Highlights of Southern Brazil

Great beaches, snow, waterfalls and Fenachopp!

The states of Santa Catarina , Rio Grande do Sul , and Parana lie in the sub-tropical area of southern Brazil where snow sometimes falls on the higher elevations.

Europeans from Poland, Italy and Germany found this climate agreeable and settled here, bringing with them their customs, food preferences and languages. And their genes. Brazilians from this region often are blond and blue-eyed.

The state of Parana offers water, hills and more water in the form of splendid beaches and great waterfalls.

• Iguazu Falls , or Foz do Iguaçú, seen here, are an international attraction. The Brazilian side of the falls has the better overview of the cataracts, and is somewhat cheaper, if rougher, than the Argentine side.
• Curitiba is a pleasant, well-ordered city, with a cobblestoned historical section called Largo da Ordem
• From Curitiba, take the train down the steep mountain to the port of Paranaguá . Ilha do Mel in the bay of Paranaguá has great beaches, scenic walks and is a summertime favorite.

Rio Grande do Sul

The southernmost state of Brazil, Rio Grande do Sul, shares a cattle ranch tradition, along with the traditional gaucho tradition, with neighboring Argentina and Uruguay. You might visit cattle ranches, eat barbeque called churrasco ] and drink chimarrão , a strong herbal tea, or wine from one of the local wineries. You can also practice your Italian in the mountain villages where many of the residents speak it full-time.

The capital, Porto Alegre , is a good jumping off spot for the state's attractions:

• Serra Gaúcha mountains, popular with hikers, trekkers and bikers
• Parque Estadual de Caracol has a splendid waterfall easily accesible. Parque Nacional de Aparados da Serra boasts great scenery in Itaimbézinho's narrow canyon and the Canyon da Fortaleza. The park also preserves one of the last forests of Auracária trees, something like a very tall pine tree.
• Jesuit missions, particularly São Miguel das Missões, in the western part of the state

Santa Catarina

has some of the best beaches in Brazil, and is one of the most popular vacation destinations for Brazilians. It is one of the more affluent states, so amenities are plentiful. It's called the most "European" of Brazilian states.

• The capital, Florianopolis, is located partly on the mainland, and partly on Ilha de Santa Catarina, where you'll find wonderful beaches, particularly Joaquina beach host to surfing championships.
• Joinville hosts many festivals, including Fenachopp , an Octoberfest celebrating its Germanic heritage, Festa das Flores honoring the flowers grown locally, and a large Festival de Dança , where thousands of dancers participate in Blumenau and Pomerode retain their German traditions and language. Visitors enjoy visiting these towns for a taste of the Old Country.
• The seaside resort of Balneário Camboriú is popular as the site for conventions and other large group events.

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The Best Places to Visit in the South of Brazil

• Post last modified: April 15, 2024
• Post author: Danielle Zito
• Post published: February 16, 2023
• Post category: South America

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There are so many amazing places to visit in the south of Brazil , that it can be hard to choose! We recently did a road trip through the south of  Brazil , and experienced a variety of stunning beaches, cool art, and fun cities.

In this guide we're going to share with you the top places to visit in the south of  Brazil , as well as some of the hidden gems that we found along the way.

We'll share how to best get around, some local adjustments, and all you need to know for staying safe. So without further ado, let's jump into our complete guide for the best places to visit in the south of  Brazil !

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Where is Brazil?

Brazil  is the biggest country in  South America , and stretches from all the way near the equator to down towards the south fo the continent. The country is located along the coast of the Atlantic, and the south of  Brazil borders Uruguay , Paraguay , and Argentina .

Brazil is an enormous country, and there are a ton of amazing places to visit in the south of Brazil.

How to Get to the South of Brazil

There are a number of ways to visit the south of  Brazil . The two cheapest and most popular airports to fly into to start your trip are Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro , which have plenty of domestic and international flights.

Other smaller airports to reach the south of  Brazil include Porto Alegre (the most south), Foz do Iguazu (bordering Paraguay and Argentina ), or Curitiba.

Flight Tip:  Using Skyscanner you can put from "your city" to "Brazil". This way you can see which is the cheapest airport in the area to fly to. Also, you can check the calendar to see which are the cheapest dates for your destination!

Search for a flight to Brazil:

Getting from Argentina to the South of Brazil

If you happen to be traveling from Argentina, then we have a little trick for you! Domestic flights are usually the cheapest, and Iguazu has two airports- one in Argentina , and one in Brazil . 

In order to start traveling to some of the best places to visit in the south of  Brazil , we fly to Puerto Iguazu in  Argentina . and cross into Brazil through the land border. From the airport in Brazil, it will then be much cheaper to fly to different destinations like Sao Paulo , Curitiba, or Rio de Janeiro .

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Entry Requirements for Brazil

Before traveling to a new destination, it's important to keep in mind any of the requirements that you may need to meet in order to enter. Here are both the visa and Covid requirements to put into consideration when traveling to the different places to visit in the south of Brazil.

Visa Entry Requirements For Brazil

The first time that I traveled to  Brazil I actually needed a visa to visit. The last time I went though, I brought my visa, only to find out that US nationals no longer need them!

The different countries that are exempt from tourist visas in Brazil  include  Andorra .  Argentina , Australia, Austria , Bahamas , Barbados, Belgium, Bermuda , Bolivia , Canada,  Chile ,  Colombia ,  Costa Rica ,  Denmark ,  Ecuador , Finland, France,  Germany ,  Greece , Japan, Iceland , Ireland ,  Italy , Liechtenstein , Luxembourg , Monaco, Morocco , Namibia, The Netherlands, Norway , Paraguay , Peru , Philippines,  Portugal , San Marino, South Africa,  Spain ,  Suriname , Sweden,  Switzerland , Trinidad and Tobago,  United States ,  United Kingdom , Uruguay , and Venezuela.

In addition, people from the Mercosur region don't need to bring their passport, as they can simply bring their ID card. The countries which are included in Mercosur are Argentina , Uruguay , and Paraguay .

Covid Entry Requirements For Brazil

All passengers who are over the age of 12 need to present either a Covid vaccination card, or a negative RT-PCR test. If you aren't vaccinated, you'll need to take a test within one day of traveling, and the results must be in either English, Spanish, or Portuguese.

Also, it's important to know that the security inside most of the airports will still require you to wear a mask, so it's better to have one just in case. No one actually enforces anything after security, or even on the flights, but simply to go through security we were asked.

There are no longer any specific requirements required for entering Brazil.

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Local Adjustments for Visiting the South of Brazil

Whenever traveling somewhere new there may be things that differ from where you are coming from. Here are a few of the local adjustments to keep in mind while traveling to the different places to visit in the south of Brazil.

Language in Brazil

The official language in Brazil is Portuguese. We speak Spanish, and found that there were a pretty good amount of people that spoke either English or Spanish (mostly Spanish due to the number of tourists from Uruguay and Argentina ). We do suggest learning some of the basics to get by though, as you may be able to haggle better in certain areas.

Currency in Brazil

The currency used in  Brazil is the Brazilian Real. Currently (April 2023) the exchange rate is 5.14 Brazilian Real for every 1 USD or Euro, and 6.34 Brazilian Real for every British pound.

We found that some of the more popular places to visit in the south of Brazil accepted credit cards in restaurants and hotels, and even some for tours. 

However, if you go to smaller towns, or are shopping on the streets. it may be cash only. We do suggest having some cash on you for those selling things on the beach, for tipping, or other small expenses.

Electrical Outlets in the South of Brazil

Brazil is interesting because it actually has a mix of different outlets depending on where you go. The majority are the outlets have two round prongs and a grounding pin, which are for plug types C & N.

Also, we did find a few places throughout the south of Brazil that had international outlets, which accepted both US and European appliances. Brazil operates on a 127/220V supply voltage and 60Hz.

Water Potability

The water isn't really safe or advised to be consumed throughout most of the places to visit in the south of Brazil. We suggest buying large jugs of water, and refilling a reusable water bottle so that you can always stay hydrated.

Tipping Culture in the South of Brazil

The tipping culture in Southern Brazil is pretty similar to many different countries around the world. We suggest tipping an average of 10% while in restaurants, and to do so in cash.

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Now you know almost everything you need to know about the basics of traveling in Brazil. Here are the best places to visit in the south of Brazil.

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Rio de Janeiro

Our number one pick for the best places to visit in the south of Brazil is definitely Rio de Janeiro . If it is your first time visiting the south of Brazil, then this is the perfect place to start.

While many argue this isn't technically considered the south of Brazil, we'd like to include it since it's a great city that you can start from if you plan on doing a southern itinerary.

Sugarloaf Mountain has some of the best views of Rio de Janeiro, and is connected by sets of cable cars.

Rio de Janeiro is one of our favorite cities, and it has so much to offer for all types of travelers. You can find beautiful beaches, do amazing hikes, see colorful street art, and even visit on of the seven wonders of the world. While it technically isn't considered the south, it's definitely a great gateway to the best places to visit in the south of Brazil.

Rio is one of our favorite places to visit in the south of Brazil.

We've been to Rio de Janeiro 3 times already, an never get sick of this amazing city! Want to learn more about all fo the great things to see in do? Make sure to take a peak at our Rio de Janeiro travel guide.

Sao Paulo is also another city that technically is not considered the south, but is huge connection to the best places to visit in the south of Brazil. The city is the center of business in Brazil, and is one of the most popular and crowded cities in the country. Not only that, but it's actually one of the most well-connected airports in Brazil and in South America .

Sao Paulo makes the perfect place to start or end your trip around the south of Brazil, and is great for a day or two. Head to the colorful area of Beco do Batman, get epic views at the top of the skyscrapers, or have a wild night out at their bars and clubs. This city is vibrant, fun, and a great addition for places to visit in the south of Brazil.

Iguazu Falls

When it comes to nature. this is definitely the top of the list for the best places to visit in the south of Brazil.

Iguazu Falls are one of the natural wonders of the world, and are shared by both Brazil and Argentina . Both sides are stunning in their own way, and deserve a visit. 

Iguazu Falls is one of the top places to visit in the south of Brazil.

In order to get here you can take a short flight to Foz do Iguassu airport, or take an overnight bus from Curitiba like we did.

Want to learn more about the incredible Iguazu Falls? Make sure to check out our complete guide:

Located half way between Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro , Paraty is a true hidden gem of a destination. Full of lush jungle, waterfalls, and a large collection of tropical islands, Paraty has it all for nature lovers. The Old Town is full of color and charm, and you can also visit a number of cacacharias. Paraty is the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation, and can be easily reached by bus in just 4-5 hours from either Sao Paulo or Rio.

Paraty has a ton of great things to do for all types travelers.

Want to learn more about Paraty? Check out our full travel guide we've written!

Catch a ride to Paraty:

Formally known as Armacao do Buzios. this is a beautiful area on an ocean peninsula east of Rio de Janeiro . Just a couple hours from Rio, it's known as an upscale vacation destination with a number of beaches and resorts to enjoy. This area is particularly popular amongst locals, as well as Argentinian tourists.

Look for a place to stay in Buzios:

Ilhe Grande

Located just 2 hours south of Rio de Janeiro is a low-key tropical paradise called Ilha Grande. This island may seem small, but it's full of trails, lush greenery, and great beaches for both surfing and relaxing, making it the perfect getaway from the busy city of Rio de Janeiro .

Ilhe Grande can be reached by ferry from Angra das Reis (no cars allowed), and you can get a direct bus from Rio de Janeiro to Anrga das Reis.

Another thing that Ilha Grande is known for is for its trekking trips. There are plenty of different great ones that you ca do, and these last anywhere from 5-7 days typically.

Florianopolis

Florianopolis is another one our favorites places to visit in the south of Brazil . This island is so much more than we imagined. Tropical beaches, beautiful views, and exclusive parties are just some of the things that you can expect in this popular Brazilian island.

We suggest saving at least 4 days to visit here, as there are so many things to do! Florianopolis has a small airport, and can also be reached by bus from Porto Alegre, Curitiba, and other big cities in the area.

Florianopolis is one of the most popular places to visit in the south of Brazil.

Want to learn more about Florianopolis? Make sure to read our full guide!

Balneario Camboriu

Located just an hour north of Florianopolis , Balneario Camboriu is an awesome city with skyscrapers towering along the beach. Walk along the picturesque jetty, enjoy the scenic cable car views or soak up the sun at one of the beautiful beaches. We suggest coming here for 2 days to make the most of this awesome place.

Balneario Camboriu has a skyline along the beach that you can admire from the jetty.

Curitiba is the capital of the southern region or Parana, and was the city we flew to Iguazu Falls from. While the city isn't huge, it is known for its notable botanical gardens. If you happen to spend a night here we suggest you to check out Janela Bar. It's actually a big chain in Brazil, but the original is here. With an edgy vibe, delicious burgers, and great cocktails, this place is such a great time.

If you do go, make sure to ask for Diego. He manages this branch and he is an incredibly good time. 

One thing to note about Curitiba is that the weather is unlike any of the other places to visit in the south of Brazil! It is significantly colder, and even in January (the height of the summer) it was pretty chilly at night.

Look for a place to stay in Curitiba:

Looking for one of the most unique places in the south of Brazil? Well, this one will truly shock you.

Blumenau will teleport you right to Germany. That's right- this city was settled by Germans, and the town has historic German-style buildings, and even a touristic village full of rides, restaurants, and shops to enjoy. It's the perfect stop to make for an afternoon on a road trip, or to take a day trip from Balneario Camboriu or Florianopolis .

Blumenau is a German inspired town in the south of Brazil.

Porto Alegre

Porto Alegre is the capital of the most southern state of Brazil , Rio Grande do Sul. While it's not at the top of the list for our favorite places to visit in the south of Brazil , it is a big city, and can be very cheap to fly into to start your south Brazilian adventures.

Porto Alegre has a cathedral, museums, and some great restaurants and bars to hang out in. If you're into culture, then Porto Alegre is a great place to add to your list.

Here are a few fun tours that you can sign up with:

Look for a place to stay in Porto Alegre:

The Best Places to Visit in the South of Brazil: Hidden Gems

We love a good hidden gem, and truly found some great ones while road tripping around the south of Brazil ! Here are a few fun ones to add to your list.

Camping do Morro Sao Bernardo

Hidden in the mountains an hour outside of Blumenau is one of the most beautiful camping spots you'll ever see.

This place is perched so high up, that you can actually find yourself above the clouds! The owner even places two swings with lights there, so you can actually feel like you are swimming in the clouds. It truly is a magical place, and one of our favorite hidden gems of southern Brazil.

This campground is situated above the clouds.

Parque Estadual Turistico do Alto Ribeiro

This is one of the spots that we happened to stumble upon on accident. While driving from Sao Paulo to Curitiba we saw a waterfall sign, so we continued to follow.

Tucked away from the highway was actually a state park! It had beautiful views, and a set of waterfalls that you could admire from several different platforms. Additionally, in the area there are other really great spots like caves and other waterfalls.

We actually came here because our friends have a house here. Just north of Balneario Camboriu is a small beach town that is away from the crowds of the other busy each cities in the south of Brazil.

Penha is perfect for relaxing. and also has some beautiful viewpoints in the area to admire the coastline from.

Praia de Maguaratiba

When we were driving from Rio de Janeiro to Paraty, we wanted to stop for the sunset, so we decided to stop at a beach. We had to park at the gas station and walk 7 minutes to get there. When we arrived there was a massive empty beach surrounded by green hills. We couldn't believe we were the only ones there, and definitely think it was worth a stop if you need a break on your road trip.

Praia de Maguaratiba is located on the way to Paraty from Rio de Janeiro.

Getting Around the Best Places to Visit in the South of Brazil

When we were trying to make our itinerary for visiting the top places to visit in the south of Brazil, we had quite a few places that were on our list.

Renting a Car in the South of Brazil

Because of having limited time, we decided that renting a car was the right decision for us. We rented a car in Rio de Janeiro , and dropped it off at the airport in Curitiba before our flight to Iguazu .  However, we did have a friend join us in Paraty, and we found that the bus system was also pretty good.

A pro of having a car was that we were able to find some hidden gems along the route, and not have to worry with the huge amount of luggage that we had. The roads were overall pretty good, and driving wasn't;t too stressful.

The cons were that the drives were long, so we used a lot of time traveling, and spent a lot on gas. Finding safe parking was also a challenge in some places, so we suggest searching for hotels that have private parking to keep your vehicle safe.

Rent a car in the south of Brazil:

Traveling the Different Places to Visit in the South of Brazil Via Public Transport

When it comes to traveling around the south of Brazil , distances are rather long, so our suggestion is to take the overnight buses. This way you'll be able to save on accommodation, and not waste your days on the road. Buses are also a great option if you're one or two people traveling, and want to save a bit of money.

Here are some popular bus routes that you can book in the south of Brazil:

•   Rio de Janeiro to Paraty
•   Rio de Janeiro to Sao Paulo
•   Rio de Janeiro to Florianopolis
•   Rio de Janeiro to Curitiba
•   Rio de Janeiro to Porto Alegre
•   Rio de Janeiro to Buzios
•   Paraty to Rio de Janeiro
•   Paraty to Sao Paulo
• Florianopolis to Porto Alegre
• Florianopolis to Curitiba
• Florianopolis to Rio de Janeiro
• Florianopolis to Sao Paulo
• Curitiba to Porto Alegre
• Curitiba to Rio de Janeiro
• Curitiba to Sao Paulo
• Curitiba to Florianopolis
• Sao Paulo to Rio de Janeiro
• Sao Paulo to Curitiba
• Sao Paulo to Paraty
• Sao Paulo to Florianopolis
• Sao Paulo to Porto Alegre
• Buzios to Rio de Janeiro

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Food & Drink in the South of Brazil

Brazil is an enormous country, so the cuisine varies quite a bit! We found that the south of Brazil had a lot of fried foods, meat, and seafood in the coastal towns. Here are some of the Brazilian specialties you should try:

• Acai: super refreshing and healthy frozen treat made from berries of the Amazon
• Cocos: Fresh coconuts can be found pretty much on any beach for around 10 Real
• Coxhina: fried teardrop shaped dough with shredded chicken inside
• Pastel: fried pastries which are similar to empanadas, and great for on the go
• Brigadeiro: small and round  traditional Brazilian dessert with creamy  chocolate  inside
• Churrasca: Brazilian Steakhouse where they slice unlimited amounts of meat at the table- this is an absolute must! (unless you're a vegetarian of course)
• Casquinha de Siri:  Our favorite seafood dish! Creamy crab cakes served inside the shell
• Ostras Gratinadas: Oysters baked and smothered in cheese

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Is the South of Brazil Safe?

Safety varies a lot in Brazil, even from one street to the other. Overall, most places to visit in the south of Brazil you'll need to be extra cautious. Be mindful of which areas are favelas, and always keep an extra eye on your belongings.

Super touristy areas are usually the safest ones, while the outskirts you'll need to be careful of. However, even in the tourist hotspots, you'll need to know which streets are the safer ones. Never was around at night alone, and always stay in lighted areas. Don't wear flashy jewelry, or anything that will grab people's attention too much. Never leave belongings on site in your car if you rent one, and try to stick to paid parking lots.

Brazil is a beautiful country, and there are so many friendly people. We absolutely recommend it, and don't think it's so danger that it should deter you from coming. Simply keep an extra eye out, and be mindful of your surroundings at all times.

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Other Things to Know About Exploring the Best Places to Visit in the South of Brazil

Now you know all of the best places to visit in the south of Brazil, how to get around, and how to keep yourself safe. But don't go anywhere yet! We have a few other things to share with you.

Weather in the South of Brazil

Most areas of Brazil hardly ever get cold. Winters are very mild, and the most you'll need is a light jacket (except for Curitiba and Sao Paulo where it gets abnormally cold at times). The summer months of December-March get extremely humid and hot, and the sun is super strong.

Try to take the weather predictions with a grain of salt, as sometimes the forecast can say 10 days of rain, when in reality it may just rain for a couple of minutes.

Brazil has very tropical weather, especially from December to March.

The Best Time to Visit the South of Brazil

The best time to visit the south of Brazil definitely varies on what kind of trip you are trying to have.

For parties, the two best times to visit are during New Years, and during Carnival in February. Brazil truly knows how to have a good time, and these celebrations are definitely something you won't want to miss out on.

When it comes to weather, we personally think the shoulder months like November or April are the best, as they aren't as humid, but still hot enough to enjoy the beaches.

New Years is one of the best times to visit Rio de Janeiro.

Packing For a Trip to the South of Brazil

Here are some of the things you'll want to pack while discovering all of the amazing places to visit in the south of Brazil .

• Sunscreen (We spent one hour without sunscreen and were peeling for the entire two weeks after)
• Towel (or you can buy Brazilian Cangas)
• Bathing Suits (the smaller the better for Brazilians)
• Flip flops (or you can buy Havaianas )
• Power bank (we use Anker power banks , as they are super long lasting and sturdy)
• Zippered bag or backpack (to secure your belongings)
• Lock (to secure your belongings in hotels or shared rooms in hostels)
• Sneakers (there are some amazing hikes)
• Nicer beachy clothing  to go out in (some clubs have dress codes)
• Action Camera  (for all water activities) we use the  Insta 360 X3  because it's small & waterproof
• Drone  (You can get epic shots at the beaches! We use the  Mavic Mini Pro 3  because it's super light and high quality)
• Waterproof phone pouch  (we use the  Waterproof Underwater Pouch Dry Bag Case Cover" rel="nofollow" style="outline: none;" target="_blank">Cafago Waterproof Phone Pouch )
• Travel Adapter  (we use  New%20Year%20Sale%20-%20Order%20Over%20$39+%20Save%2010%%20Off! " rel="nofollow" style="outline: none;" target="_blank" class="">Tessan travel adapters as they are affordable and reliable)
• Water Bottle  (we use Cafago Water Bottles because they hold the temperature well)

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So are you ready to explore all of the amazing places to visit in the south of Brazil? We loved this area of the country so much, and even after two weeks we have so much more to explore.

Want to learn more about the destinations in the area? We have a Rio de Janeiro travel guide , and Florianopolis travel guide , as well as a few brand new travel guides coming out in the next few weeks. Make sure to subscribe to our newsletter  to stay up to date with our new posts, and for exclusive deals on our products and services.

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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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28 Best Things to Do in Rio De Janeiro in 2024

Top 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 then 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 until the 1990s an isolated fisherman village. Now, it is accessible to anyone who wants to relax and enjoy the amazing beaches the town has to offer.

Snorkeling is a must here. Only a couple of 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, which means the wildlife flourishes.

The wetland offers beautiful landscapes and the chance to see a great variety of 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 beauty of the city 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 cobblestoned streets.

6. Chapada Diamantina, Bahia

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

When visiting the national park, you will be provided with a smorgasbord of 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 sand dunes, the Capoeira at the beach, the amazingly huge 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, here you can!  Fernando de Noronha is a group of islands that belongs to 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 more than 270 waterfalls of different sizes that border Brazil, Argentina, and Paraguay, are a truly amazing spectacle.

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

10. Paraty, Rio de Janeiro

This gorgeous coastal town was first settled in 1667, so it has a lot of history. It truly offers something for everyone, including cobblestone streets, magnificent forests, amazing 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.

In fact, 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 

Located in the southern part of 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 a lot to do there.

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

It is connected to the continent by three bridges, one of which is the 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 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 snorkeling or scuba diving, or enjoy the many sights that give the place some ambiance.

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 very hard place to forget! 

15. Trancoso, Bahia

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

It has many festivals to enjoy throughout the year, but its main attractions are all of 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 perfect 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 cool 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 even 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

Mostly known as the town that is 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 is split into 60% of the 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, which is 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 “Top 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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Must-see attractions in Brazil

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14 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in São Paulo

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers and Michael Law Updated Dec 24, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

The largest city in South America, São Paulo sits on the Piratininga plateau and is surrounded by rivers that fan out into the interior. Almost from its founding in 1554, São Paulo became the gateway to the sertão (Brazil's backcountry), and explorers known as bandeirantes made expeditions from the city into this region. Today's main highways to interior cities still follow the routes of the bandeirantes.

Immigrants from all over the world have always been a part of São Paulo, and you'll still see the influence of Portuguese, Spanish, German, African, Jewish, Arab, and Japanese residents on its life and culture. There is an entire museum devoted to Japanese immigration, for example, and another to the contributions of Africans in Brazil.

Perhaps the most difficult thing to grasp about the city is its sheer size. A good way to get an idea of how far it spreads is from the observation deck of the 46-story Itália Building on Avenida Ipiranga. Many of São Paulo's tourist attractions are widespread, so you'll find the Metro a good way to travel between them.

Discover the best places to visit in this lively metropolis with our list of the top attractions and things to do in Sao Paulo.

See also: Where to Stay in São Paulo

1. Museu de Arte

2. museo do futebol (football museum), 3. parque do ibirapuera (ibirapuera park), 4. museu de arte contemporânea (contemporary art museum), 5. avenida paulista, 6. parque da independància and museu paulista, 7. sé (cathedral), 8. teatro municipal (city theater), 9. beco do batman (batman alley), 10. pátio do colégio, 11. mosteiro de são bento (benedictine monastery), 12. pinacoteca do estado (art gallery of the state of são paulo), 13. nossa senhora da luz, 14. largo de são francisco, where to stay in são paulo for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to são paulo, map of attractions & things to do in são paulo, sao paulo, brazil - climate chart.

The São Paulo Museum of Art, known locally as MASP, only opened in 1968 but has the most representative and comprehensive collection of western art in Latin America. You'll see works by Impressionists and modern masters - Renoir, Van Gogh, Matisse, Manet, Debret, Picasso, Miró, along with 73 works of bronze sculpture by Degas alone.

Although it reaches back to the Renaissance artists, this is one of the first art museums on the continent to focus on artists of the mid-20th century and later, as well as on contemporary artists in Brazil, including Portinari and Di Cavalcanti. Its outstanding collections put it in the league with the Tate Modern, MoMA, and the Centre Pompidou.

The building itself, designed by Brazilian-Italian architect Lina Bo Bardi, is a classic of Modernism. The plaza under its suspended structure hosts a Sunday antiques market and frequent concerts.

Address: Avenida Paulista 1578, São Paulo

Official site: https://masp.org.br

In this football (soccer) mad country, a city like Sao Paulo would be bereft if it didn't have a museum dedicated to the "beautiful game." This fantastic museum provides insight and information on the game and how it occupies a special place in the heart of all Brazilians.

Spread out over 6,000 square meters and 15 galleries are interactive exhibits that are engaging and entertaining. Each gallery focuses on different aspects of the game and the development of sport in Brazil. Jumbo screens mounted on the walls showing famous plays, games, and happenings almost induce a feeling of sensory overload. Other galleries have hundreds of framed photos and other treasured memorabilia.

Think you are a hotshot player? Test your skills by taking a penalty kick against a virtual goalie. The machine will tell you your results, including the speed of the ball. The museum is located at the world famous Pacaembu stadium.

Official site: https://museudofutebol.org.br/en/pagina-inicial-en/

Ibirapuera Park was laid out by landscape architect Roberto Burle Marx, with buildings designed by Oscar Niemeyer. The immense green space with its monuments, museums, playgrounds, gardens, trails, lakes, and performance spaces is a leisure paradise for the people of São Paulo, as well as a showcase of modern architecture and culture. The park is immensely popular, with over 14 million people visiting each year.

Commemorating the pioneers from São Paulo who opened up Brazil's interior, the Bandeiras Monument is a magnificent work by Brazilian sculptor Victor Brecheret, with imposing heroic figures. An obelisk commemorates those who died in 1932 in the struggle for a new constitution.

Auditório Ibirapuera , the ultra-modern music hall designed by Oscar Niemeyer, is considered one of São Paulo's best concert venues. Museu da Aeronáutica e do Folclore , the Aeronautics and Folk Art Museum , displays aircraft models and flight equipment on the ground floor, with nearly 20,000 exhibits devoted to folk art and traditions from all over Brazil filling the remaining floors. The large Museu Afro-Brasil celebrates the contributions of Afro-Brazilians and their social and cultural history.

The Japanese Pavilion dates from 1954 and has exhibits of sculptures, Samurai clothing, pottery, and other treasures. The gardens out front contain volcanic rock from Japan along with a variety of beautiful plants. The fish pond nearby is stocked with colorful carp that are always looking to be fed.

Address: Avenida Pedro Alvares Cabral, São Paulo

Inside Parque Ibirapuera, the Pavilhão da Bienal de Artes , designed by Oscar Niemeyer and completed in 1957, houses the excellent Museum of Contemporary Art along with special exhibitions and shows. The museum's more than 5,000 pieces represent a wide range of art schools, from Picasso, Modigliani, and Léger to leading Brazilian painters Tarsila do Amaral, Anita Malfatti, Portinari, and Di Cavalcanti.

Among Latin America's largest collections of 20th-century Western art, the museum also displays works by Marc Chagall, Wassily Kandinsky, and Joan Miró. The Sculpture Garden was designed by Roberto Burle Marx and displays 30 large works in an outdoor setting.

Address: Gate 3, Parque Ibirapuera, São Paulo

Official site: http://mam.org.br/

Avenida Paulista is São Paulo's center of activity, full of things to do and a favorite destination for both tourists and locals. This is an ideal spot for people-watching from one of the numerous sidewalk cafes. The area is home to many shops, theaters, galleries, and museums, including the São Paulo Museum of Art (MASP).

Nearby and within walking distance are parks, like Parque Trianon, which provides a foliage-dense oasis right in the city center. This main avenue hosts numerous festivals and celebrations throughout the year, often closing to traffic to become a pedestrian mall.

In São Paulo's Ipiranga district, traversed by the stream alongside which the independence of Brazil was proclaimed by Prince Pedro, Independence Park commemorates that 1822 event. Overlooking the formal gardens of roses, topiaries, and fountains inspired by those at Versailles, is the Museu Paulista, more commonly known as the Museu do Ipiranga.

Its Italian architect, Tommaso Gaudenzio Bezzi, created an eclectic design modeled on Italian Neoclassicism, reminiscent of Renaissance palaces. Inside are large collections of costumes, decorative arts, paintings, and furniture of the Imperial Period.

Address: Parque da Independência, Ipiranga, São Paulo

The neo-Gothic cathedral was built on the site of an earlier cathedral and took from 1913 to 1967 to complete. Its building was interrupted by two world wars, which made it difficult to get the mosaics and other decorative elements from Italy. It was consecrated in 1954, on the 400th anniversary of the foundation of São Paulo.

On the façade are statues of Old Testament prophets and Christ's disciples. Although the rest of the church is neo-Gothic, it is capped by a Renaissance-style dome. The interior has several interesting features, including the 10,000-pipe organ and stained glass windows picturing the history of Catholicism in Brazil.

Be sure to notice the capitals on the columns, carved to represent Brazilian flora (branches of coffee and pineapples) and fauna, including armadillos. You can tour the crypt below the main church to see marble sculptures and tombs. The cathedral sits at the historic center of São Paulo, and is a good place to begin a walking tour of the old town.

Address: Praça da Sé, São Paulo

Architect Ramos de Azevedo modeled São Paulo's Municipal Theater after the Paris Opéra, drawing on an eclectic mixture of Art Nouveau and Italian Renaissance themes. Almost immediately after its completion in 1911, it became a major city attraction. This status was enhanced in 1922, when it was the venue for a landmark event that revolutionized the arts in Brazil.

The Week of Modern Art introduced and spotlighted artists who were to become icons of the Brazilian Modernist Movement, celebrated names including painters Emiliano Di Cavalcanti, Tarsila do Amaral, Anita Malfatti, and Menotti Del Picchia; composer Heitor Villa-Lobos; playwright Mário de Andrade; and sculptor Victor Brecheret.

A major center for the performing arts in South America, the theater has hosted performances by internationally renowned singers, dancers, musicians, and performing artists that have included Carla Fracci, Rudolf Nureyev, Titta Ruffo, Enrico Caruso, Maria Callas, Arturo Toscanini, Heitor Villa-Lobos, and Mikhail Baryshnikov.

The building was completely restored to its original grandeur and re-opened in 1991. It is home to the São Paulo Symphony Orchestra, the Coral Lírico (Lyric Choir), and the City Ballet of São Paulo.

Address: Praça Ramos de Azevedo, São Paulo

If you find yourself in the Vila Madalena neighborhood, Beco do Batman is a wild and colorful spot located between Gonçalo Afonso Street and Medeiros de Albuquerque Street. Since the 1980s, spray paint artists have been showcasing their innovative work on the walls.

The artwork is continually changing, and the creative murals make for colorful photos. There is even a good chance you'll see an artist or two at work when you visit.

If you are interested in meeting some of the artists and having your very own photo shoot with a professional photographer who will take your picture against the colorful murals, consider taking a tour. The Photoshoot of Batman's Alley includes 100 photos of you, with the results curated in Photoshop and sent to you digitally in 24 hours.

The square known as Pátio do Colégio, immediately north of Praça da Sé and the cathedral, is the original nucleus of São Paulo. Here, Manuel de Nóbrega and José de Anchieta founded the College of the Society of Jesus, a residence and center of study for Jesuits, and here on January 25, 1554, the first mass in the settlement was celebrated.

The attractive plaza is now occupied by the Historical Museum, a museum of sacred art, and the Capela de Anchieta. All that remains of the 16th-century building are the doors and a stretch of clay wall. In the gardens of the museum is a pleasant café.

The Benedictine monastery and its church were founded in the late 16th century, but the current church dates only from 1910-22. Don't discount it for its modern origin or its rather austere exterior, as the interior is richly painted and includes 17th-century statues of St. Benedict and St. Scholastica carved by Agostinho de Jesus.

A number of other notable Benedictine artists contributed to the decoration of the monastery. Also notable are some impressive stained glass, an image of the Virgin in a robe set with pearls, and a crucifix dating to 1777. This is an active brotherhood, and the monks accompany the morning mass with Gregorian chants. Stop in the monastery shop to buy cakes, breads, and chocolates made by the brothers.

Address: Largo de São Bento, São Paulo

This museum is the oldest in São Paulo, opened in 1905 to showcase the works of Brazilian artists. Its 10,000 works of art include drawings, paintings, and sculpture from the 1800s through the present. Housed in the restored Liceu de Artes e Ofícios building, the architecture itself is a reason to visit.

Part of the collection is housed in the museum's second location at Pina Estação where visitors will find a memorial to the São Paulo Resistance, an extensive library of historic documents related to Brazil's political struggles, and many more examples of Brazilian art.

Address: Praça da Luz, 2, São Paulo

Official site: https://pinacoteca.org.br/en/

On Avenida Tiradentes, which skirts the Parque da Luz, are the convent and church of Nossa Senhora da Luz, typical examples of the traditional architecture of São Paulo: in spite of their fairly recent age – they were built in the 18th century – they are constructed entirely of clay.

The Nossa Senhora da Luz convent now houses a Museum of Sacred Art, which has a large collection of about 11,000 items, including statues, pictures, altarpieces, and furniture from the 16th through 19th centuries. Also on Praça Tiradentes is the Pinacoteca do Estado, the State Picture Gallery, the oldest museum in São Paulo. It contains about 2,500 pictures, drawings, and prints, mainly by Brazilian artists.

Address: Praça da Luz, São Paulo

To the west of the cathedral and the Pátio do Colégio, Largo de São Francisco is a street in the city center named for the monastic complex that faces it. The Igreja de São Francisco de Assis, the church of St. Francis, was built in 1644 and is one of the city's oldest surviving churches. Its interior is clearly based on those of Portugal in that period, with a cheerful, airy feel and plentiful gold flourishes.

It was restored after a fire in 1870 and again more recently. Not so the neighboring church of the Ordem Terceira de São Francisco, the Third (lay) Franciscan Order, built from 1676 to 1791 and so seriously showing its age that it is closed to visitors. The third building in the complex, the Franciscan friary, has been occupied since 1828 by the Law Faculty of São Paulo University. The neighborhood is a little run down and is not a place to visit at night.

Address: Rua Borges Lagoa, São Paulo

Unlike many large cities, where most of the main attractions are clustered near the historic old town, São Paulo's are spread across the city. Luckily for tourists, a good Metro system brings all the sites within easy reach. It's best to choose a location in the Paulista neighborhood, close to the São Paulo Museum of Art or south of it, near Ibirapuera Park, where several other attractions are located. Here are some highly-rated hotels in this area of São Paulo:

Luxury Hotels :

• Several top hotels in the Paulista area surround the São Paulo Museum of Art, close to restaurants and shopping. Renaissance Sao Paulo Hotel has a pool and good city views from the upper floors, while InterContinental Sao Paulo offers a large fitness center along with a pool. Some rooms have balconies.
• At the edge of Paulista, a few blocks from Ibirapuera Park, Marriott Executive Apartments also has several good restaurants within walking distance.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• Close to the Trianon metro station and Museum of Art, the quiet Royal Boutique Jardins Hotel is near the public gardens.
• Still in Paulista, but only a short walk to Ibirapuera Park and its museums, the 154-room Mercure Sao Paulo Paulista is well worth a look.

Budget Hotels:

• Although it is right in the center of the busy Paulista shopping and restaurant neighborhood, rooms are quiet at Ibis Paulista .
• Melia Paulista is directly across from the Trianon metro station, and the airport bus stop is a block away.
• Also near the art museum, shopping center, and dining, Intercity Paulista has a sauna, fitness room, and small pool.
• Sightseeing Tours : Visitors can see many of the top tourist attractions on the three-hour City Tour of São Paulo , which begins at the P acaembu Football Stadium and includes tours of several significant neighborhoods. Highlights include the Museu de Arte (MASP) in the Paulista neighborhood and the Municipal Theater and Pátio do Colégio in downtown São Paulo. The tour also visits Sé Square and its historic cathedral, as well as several public squares and historic monuments, including the stunning Ibirapuera Park .

More on Brazil

10 Best Places To Visit In Brazil, From São Paulo To Iguazu

B razil is the largest country in South America by land area, so it comes as no surprise that exploring this vast destination requires covering significant ground. Most people are familiar with Rio de Janeiro, which is famous for housing one of the Seven Wonders of the New World, Christ the Redeemer.

But beyond Rio de Janeiro is a rich combination of islands, wetlands, nature, and bustling cities waiting to be discovered. These are 10 of the best places to visit in Brazil from Iguazu falls all the way to the city of São Paulo.

Iguazu Falls

Iguazu Falls (Foz do Iguaçu) are one of the seven new natural wonders of the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site . Straddling the border of Brazil in the state of Paraná and Argentina in the province Misiones. Iguazu Falls is a magnificent collection of over 275 waterfalls.

80% of the falls are on the Argentina side and only 20% are on the Brazilian side, so it’s worthwhile to cross over into Argentina while visiting this destination.

Travelers can also make a quick day trip to Ciudad del Este in Paraguay to do some shopping from Iguazu Falls.

Pantanal Wetlands

The Pantanal wetlands in Brazil are a nature photographer’s dream destination. Home to the largest tropical wetland area in the world, Pantanal is primarily in the Brazilian state of Mato Grosso do Sul .

Jaguars hunt caiman in the Pantanal, so taking a guided tour of the region for a couple of days of attempting to spot these majestic creatures in their natural habitat is a popular thing to do.

São Paulo city is the capital of the Brazilian state of the same name and is one of the most populous cities in the entire world. As an industrial hub and cultural center for the country, it’s a must-visit stop on any tour of Brazil.

• Shopping at Mercado Municipal and visiting the São Paulo Art Museum are just a couple of the things to do here.

Related: Don't Break The Bank: Here Are the Top 10 Most Affordable Hotels In Brazil

Rio De Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro is a coastal city in Brazil that is famous for its stunning coastline where it's easy to spend a full week . Areas like Copacabana and Ipanema beaches attract visitors from around the world.

The top attraction in Rio de Janeiro is Christ the Redeemer, an Art Deco statue of Jesus Christ that was designed by a French sculptor named Paul Landowski. The statute was built by a Brazilian engineer named Heitor da Silva Cost. Standing at the base of the statute offers an awe-inspiring view of the city and coastline below.

Plan a visit to Rio de Janeiro in February for a chance to experience Carnaval , the biggest street party of the year.

Fernando De Noronha

Fernando de Noronha is an archipelago off the northeast coast of Brazil. Its largest island has a protected national marine park and ecological sanctuary which, on their own, are worth the visit. The rugged beaches and crystal blue waters are popular for swimming, scuba diving, and spotting wildlife like sea turtles and dolphins.

Related: 10 Dishes You Must Try In Rio De Janeiro, Brazil

The Amazon rainforest is an expansive biome that stretches across various countries in South America including Brazil, Peru, Bolivia, Ecuador, Venezuela, Guyana, Colombia, and Suriname.

When in Brazil, travelers can go to the city of Manaus in the state of Amazonas to begin their Amazonian adventure.

Most people might not realize that the city of Brasília is the capital of Brazil. It became the federal capital in 1960 and clean, sleek-looking city thanks to its white and modern architectural design. Strolling around Pontão do Lago Sul and visiting the Cathedral of Brasília are a couple of the top things to do here.

The largest city in the state of Paraná, and also its capital, Curitiba is a cultural hub and has many venues for performing arts events. It’s most famous for its Ópera de Arame - Vale da Música (in English, the Wire Opera) which is a performance venue capable of hosting more than 2,000 people.

Other attractions in the city include the scenic Botanical Garden of Curitiba and the Museu Oscar Niemeyer (celebrating the Brazilian architect).

Related: 10 Tips For Visiting Copacabana Beach, Brazil

Florianópolis

Florianópolis is the capital of Santa Catarina state in southern Brazil. The majority of the state is an island off the south coast of mainland Brazil, and the island is where Florianópolis is located.

For a beach destination, this is one of the best cities in the country to visit. Joaquina Beach and Jurerê are two of the must-visit spots.

Salvador is located in the northeastern Brazilian state of Bahia and is recognizable for its beautiful Portuguese colonial architecture. However, within the city, there is a rich Brazilian culture and a historic city center with cobblestone walkways and colorful homes.

Top things to do include visiting the Igreja e Convento de São Francisco (a historic church), the Elevador Lacerda (a unique elevator connecting the upper and lower city), and Itaipava Fonte Nova Arena (a sports stadium).

Travel Guide Brazil

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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, tailor-made travel itineraries for brazil, created by local experts.

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Brazilian Beaches: Copacabana, Botafogo and more

Begin at Foz do Iguaçu, where you will stand in awe of the huge Iguaçu Falls. Next up, we'll head to the lively city of Rio de Janeiro, home of the legendary Copacabana, Botafogo and Flamengo beaches, and of course, Sugar Loaf Mountain and the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue.

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Blissful Brazil

Welcome to a lavish journey that marries adventure with style, featuring stays in carefully chosen four-star hotels. This reinvigorating trip will have you sightseeing in São Paulo, gazing at the spectacular Foz do Iguaçu falls and relaxing on Rio's finest beaches before you know it.

10 days  / from 2683 USD

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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written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 26.04.2021

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Travel | What hurricane? Revisiting Little Palm Island,…

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Travel | what hurricane revisiting little palm island, where irma is only a memory.

Much was sure to be different there since Hurricane Irma took it apart the morning of Sept. 10, 2017. I hadn’t been to the resort off Little Torch Key since February 2015, long before the storm passed through.

Back then, after my wife and I had spent a day and a night there, I wrote this about Little Palm Island:

“We wore ourselves out that day, trying to do everything before the sun set. We’d jump into an ocean kayak and take a few sharp turns into the mysterious mangroves around nearby Big Munson Island, or escape to SpaTerre for an 80-minute massage. We walked the crushed seashell paths around the island, playing the giant chess board, lounging by the pool, sampling Gumby Slumbers (Capt. Morgan spiced rum, Malibu coconut rum, fresh squeezed orange juice, pineapple juice, cranberry juice and rum-soaked coconut), swinging in hammocks, watching the Key deer run, till the sun began to set and we got hungry.

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“Then we followed the footpaths, raked to Zen-garden like perfection (no leaf blowers to disturb our peace here), past the thatch-roof bungalows to the Dining Room. We took a table down on the white-sand beach as the sun began to sizzle into the west. Our own personal Mallory Square (without the fire jugglers).

“We were both worn out by the time we were holding hands again on the launch back to Little Torch Key.”

I was sure about one thing, after my last trip to Little Palm Island. It was the best place I knew.

‘Even the birds were gone’

Since then, Irma had come ashore with wrecking 130 mph winds. And everybody else on Little Palm Island was somewhere else that day.

Inga from the concierge desk was in Pennsylvania. Rolando at the beach cabana was on Florida’s west coast. Sandi at the spa was miles away in Central Florida.

“Everything you see here now was all rebuilt,’’ Inga says, greeting us at the dock for a tour of the 4.5-acre island that used to be five acres before Hurricane Irma. All of it, from the wooden floors of the dining room that buckled under as much as eight feet of seawater to the thatched roofs of the 30 bungalows that blew away in the Cat. 4 force winds.

“The boutique over here used to be on the [other] side of the island,” she says, along with the white-sand beach where we’d had dinner the last time we were here. “The tree that used to overhang the pool is gone now. The bar over there was rebuilt. The piano survived – not even Irma could move that. The giant chess board you remember from your last visit did not – it’s been replaced by a reflection pond. Somehow, the Truman outhouse – built in the 1920s – survived. It survived! They knew how to build stuff back then.”

But almost everywhere else she sweeps her hand, you hear about trees knocked flat, or the Great Room that used to be on the ground floor that’s on top of a new building that houses the dining room now; or about how they found the beloved portraits of Bess and Harry S. Truman standing up to their pastel knees in seawater in the drowned remnants of the library.

“All those old books were washed out to sea,’’ Inga says, moving on to the beach cabana where they keep the ocean kayaks, paddleboards and Boston whalers. “But, as you can see, Irma did not take Rolando – he’s still here.”

“Were you like this, hanging on by your fingernails?” I ask Rolando, in his little cabana pressed between the sea and the pool.

“Oh yeah,” he says, smiling. “Kind of.’’

No, not really. No one was here for that.

“Thank goodness,” I say.

“Thank goodness,’’ he says.

Rolando had thought about staying, but he decided in the last hours to evacuate with everyone else. He waited in Naples until Irma let go of the Keys, then picked his way back through the debris field that was Monroe County.

“I came back two days after the storm,” says Rolando, one of the first employees to return. “It was a wreck. There was no place left with a roof, so I slept under the stars on a couple of porches. I was a couple of years living like that. No power – the undersea line had been cut, and they were afraid to turn the power back on until everything was repaired.”

There were changes everywhere, he says, big and small.

Before the storm, for example, there’d been life all over Little Palm Island. Squadrons of frigate birds riding currents high above the bungalows. Pelicans splashing after fish in the bay. Key deer swimming over from the mangroves of the National Key Deer Refuge – so many they put up signs to remind guests the 30-inch tall animals are protected by law.

“[But] there was no wildlife here after the storm,” Rolando says. “Even the birds were gone.”

It was two months before he even saw anything else alive. Heard it, actually, over the din of the mini dozer clearing debris across the island.

“The first back were the mourning doves,” he says. “You know, that coocooing song, singing every morning, calling for their mates. That was awesome. Life coming back.”

But there were questions whether the resort would be coming back. Whether Little Palm Island had taken too big a hit this time. Whether it was worth rebuilding in this beautiful but vulnerable place.

But it happened, a few weeks after the storm. He was here the day he got the news Noble House Hotels & Resorts and the insurers had resolved to rebuild. “A happy day,” he says.

And he was here the day Little Palm Island reopened, on March 1, 2020, almost two and a half years after Irma. The last resort in the Keys to reopen. “Now, if a storm like Irma happened again, I’d stay,” he says. “That big building [housing the Dining Hall, Monkey Hut bar, Great Room and Boutique], is set forever. The foundation goes 90 feet down in the rock.”

People started coming again almost as soon as it reopened, he says. The way they’d been coming to Little Munson Island since it was a fishing camp in the 1920s; and as a resort since 1988.

“We wanted it to stay the same as they left it,” he says, looking over the calm ocean where Irma had come ashore. “And it happened.”

The best place

A bottle of Laurent Perrier champagne was chilling in the bucket in our bungalow, the last time we stayed on Little Palm Island. This time, a bottle of Nicolas Feuillant.

That was about the only difference.

We wore ourselves out again, trying to do everything before the sun set. We could jump into an ocean kayak and take a few sharp turns into the mangroves around nearby Munson Island, still battered from Irma but still there. We could escape to the rebuilt SpaTerre for an 80-minute deep-tissue massage or 50 minute rose quartz facial with Sandi. We walked around the island, lounging by the new pool, sipping Butterfly Bees (Butterfly pea flower-infused Bombay Sapphire gin, honey, lemon juice and Rocky’s Botanical), swinging in hammocks, watching the frigate birds soar over the thatched roofs and the pelicans dive on fish in the bay, till the sun began to set and we got hungry.

Then we followed the crushed seashell footpaths, raked to Zen-garden like perfection (still no leaf blowers to disturb the peace here), past the rebuilt bungalows to the new dining room. It was too chilly for a table on the white-sand beach, back where it belongs on the Atlantic side of the island; so we took a table on the new deck as the sun began to set. The man at the piano Irma couldn’t budge began to play an old song.

“God bless the child that got his own.”

We were worn out by the time we were holding hands again on the launch to Little Torch Key the next day.

I didn’t know what to expect on Little Palm Island, seven years after the storm. But it’s still the best place I know.

Little Palm Island Resort & Spa, 28500 Overseas Highway, Little Torch Key, Fla. 33042, 800-343-8567, littlepalmisland.com .

The ultra-luxe private island resort, where suites start at $2,800 per night, has 30 thatched-roof rooms – with new interiors – for never more than 60 guests at a time set amid ocean views, some with private sundecks with copper soaking tubs; tropical foliage and sandy beaches re-nourished since Hurricane Irma’s devastating winds in 2017. The one time “Munson Island Fishing Camp,” which hosted President and Mrs. Harry S. Truman, also features crushed seashell paths to the pool, new fitness center, docks for watercraft recreation, beach cabana and two-story SpaTerre, Noble House Hotels & Resorts’ signature spa. The resort’s private motor yachts depart to the island hourly (9:30 a.m.- 9:30 p.m.) from a new dock at the Welcome Station, just off U.S. 1 on Little Torch Key. The crossing takes 15-20 minutes, and is especially delightful at sunset with a Gumby Slumber – the island’s signature cocktail – in hand.

About the Key deer

The resort’s long been famous for visits from the endangered Key deer, which swim in from the nearby National Key Deer Refuge and other Keys. The 30-inch-tall animals delight guests with sightings (and, of course, selfies) at the dock, along the beach and foraging among the mangroves. (Many are such regular visitors they’ve been given names.) Feeding the deer, however, is illegal and can result in a $250 fine. Their numbers are still recovering from Irma.

We were not the first to fall under the charms of Little Palm Island

When actor Cliff Robertson came here to make the 1963 film “P.T. 109,” with Little Munson Island and the Keys standing in for the Solomon Islands in President John F. Kennedy’s Pacific wartime biopic, he apparently went a little island happy. He left a publicity still of himself at the helm of the P.T. boat, in full command of his role as President Kennedy, which hung on a wall in the dining room before Hurricane Irma.

“To my good friends of Little Island (Palm),’’ he signed. “Unposed and unclothed. My favorite beachhead.” The record, like the fading ink on the photo, was not clear on what prompted Robertson to write the dedication. Maybe it was the splendid isolation, the sunsets, the starry nights – or the Bacardi 151-spiked Shipwrecks. Sadly, Irma swept away the framed autographed photo. Rolando in the beach cabana, however, salvaged one souvenir: a faded poster from the movie that somehow survived.

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