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Brazil Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 30, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

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

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in brazil.

1. Visit Rio de Janeiro

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

2. Visit Florianópolis

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

3. Spend time in the Amazon

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

4. Go to Fernando de Noronha

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

5. See Iguazú Falls

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

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

2. Enjoy Rio Carnival

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

3. Visit Brasilia

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

4. Explore the Pantanal

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

5. Relax in Recife

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

6. Visit Salvador

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

7. See São Paulo

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

8. Try capoeira

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

9. Unplug in Ilha Grande

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

10. Visit Ouro Preto

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

11. Learn samba

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

12. Admire the Azorean fishing villages

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

13. Hike in Tijuca National Park

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

14. Visit Paraty

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

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

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

Brazil Travel Costs

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Backpacking Brazil Suggested Budgets

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

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

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

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

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

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

Brazil Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

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

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

Where to Stay in Brazil

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

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

How to Get Around Brazil

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

When to Go to Brazil

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

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

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

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

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

How to Stay Safe in Brazil

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

If you experience an emergency, dial 190 for assistance.

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

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

Brazil Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

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

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

Brazil Travel Guide: Related Articles

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

The 6 Best Hostels in Rio de Janeiro

Is Brazil Safe to Visit?

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• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

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

April 10, 2023

Paula Martinelli

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

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

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

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

Why you Should Travel to Brazil

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

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

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

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

Brazil Travel Tips Essentials

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

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

TIPPING: It is not customary to tip in Brazil

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

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

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

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

HUAWEI E5577s-321 Mobile WiFi Router

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

Brazil Travel Planning: Orientation & Map

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

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

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

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

What is the Visa Requirement to Travel to Brazil?

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

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

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

What are the best Flights options to Brazil?

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

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

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

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

What are the Best Places to Visit in Brazil?

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

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

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

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

Plan Well Your Itinerary in Brazil

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

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

How much does a Trip to Brazil Cost?

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

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

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

Average Prices per Day/ 2 People

Planning a trip to brazil: transportation & getting around.

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

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

Planning a Trip to Brazil: Accommodations

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

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

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

What is the Best time to Visit Brazil?

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

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

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

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

What is the Weather in Brazil?

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

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

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

Planning a Trip to Brazil: Safety

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

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

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

Backpack Travel Anti Theft with USB Charging Port

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

What is the food in Brazil?

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

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

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

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

What to Pack for a Trip to Brazil?

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

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

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

PACK SMART ALERT!

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

Pack Light & Smart when you Travel to Brazil

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

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

Osprey Talon 20 Liters

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

Osprey Levity 45 Liters

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

Osprey Atmos 65 Liters

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

Photography Gear in Brazil

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

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

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

7-Steps for a well-planned trip to Brazil

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

Planning a Trip to Brazil Conclusion

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Really a complete guide!

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

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

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

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

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

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

Such a great post! Would love to visit Brazil!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Home » South America » Brazil » Backpacking Guide

The Ultimate Backpacking Brazil Travel Guide | 2024

Brazil is a country of extremes. The beaches are notorious, the cities are enormous, the nature is glorious – and that’s only scratching the surface. 

While travelling in Brazil, I fell in love so quickly and deeply that I ended up staying for 3 years. I worked any job that I could get, hitched rides around the country, and couchsurfed like no tomorrow. And you’ll bet I pay a visit every time I’m back in my native South America. 

The thing about this intense country is it’s a whole continent in itself. No seriously, this massive and incredibly diverse land does some magic and makes your experience so special. The biggest parties are always the most intimate, after all.

It has every potential to be full of surprises – the good and… not so good. So it pays dividends to get an idea of what you’re getting yourself in for, so you can flow with all the magical marvels . 

In this backpacking Brazil travel guide, you’ll find all the information to prepare yourself for this impeccable country : the best places to visit, unique experiences, Brazilian culture, and how to do it all safely. 

So pack your bags! Backpacking through Brazil is already shaping up to be a wild ride.

Why Go Backpacking in Brazil?

It’s no secret, Brazil is a huge country – the 5th largest in the world, in fact. The landmass covers almost half of South America. So backpacking South America isn’t really ticked off until you step foot onto the Brazilian side. 

It’s hard to describe Brazil without sounding like I’m exaggerating. There is a huge diversity of life that only exists in this country. The landscapes are vast and distinct–there’s something simply magical about the terrain. Backpacking Brazil is one for the books. For starters, of course, you have the Amazon – no doubt you’ve heard of it. 

Mountains pierce through the land. Nature greets you every day with extreme life and climate. World-famous metropolises like Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo are only a speck within the cornucopia of possibilities that await you while travelling Brazil.

Nature is king here. Life literally grows on top of life.

The Brazilians have a particular kind of rhythm to their existence. They have an incredible blend of cultures that creates an intense, beautiful, and soulfully electric nation. 

Even with a lifetime in this country, you couldn’t get around the whole thing. But with so much on offer, your trip to Brazil will be yours. From mad adrenaline heads to lazy beach bums, you can mold your travel route for Brazil into something unique.

Best Travel Itineraries for Backpacking Brazil

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These backpacking Brazil itineraries are here only as a guide . They’re going to outline some of Brazil’s main bases and top attractions. I’ve also included some not-so-well-known places.  

But this is a massive country where I will actively encourage you to get off the beaten path. That’s where you’re going to find the secluded paradise beaches and the local hideouts – those magical spots that grab your heart and say “please don’t leave me, baby”. 

Feel free to take these itineraries, do them frontwards, backwards, inside out, chew them up, and shove them up your arse. They’re just a guide.

Backpacking Brazil 2 Week Itinerary #1: The North

Ah, Northeast Brazil. Nature, humidity, and a whole lot of sand. If you’re a beach person, then you have to check out this area.

Start off this Brazilian backpacking route in  Salvador de Bahia , and dive into the colonial history of the city. A quick trip out to Morro de São Paulo will get you started.

After Bahia, if you’re a hiker, head towards Chapada Diamantina and chase some waterfalls. Then circle back to Bahia and head north!

In the state of Pernambuco , check out Recife . Then get out of the city and swing by Pipa or Porto Galinha . Making your way north towards Fortaleza , where you’ll have a chance to stop in Genipabu and Canoa Quebrada along the way as well.

Be careful when you stop in Jericoacoara and Lençóis Maranhenses : you might never want to leave. These are some of the Northeast’s greatest destinations.

Your final stop will be the Amazon Rainforest . Charter a boat in either Manaus or Belém  and cruise up the Amazon River in style.

Not enough beaches? Try combining this itinerary with Brazil travel itinerary #2 for the best beaches that Brazil has to offer.

Backpacking Brazil 1 Month Itinerary #2: The Southeast

The southeast is home to some of Brazil’s most famous attractions! This 3-4 week itinerary will give you a taste of the big ones to backpack in Brazil. There’s a lot to see, so some backpackers may want to extend their trip.

This backpacking route through Brazil begins in glorious Rio de Janeiro . Chill in the city beach vibes, and don’t miss a night out in Lapa. If you have time (and a car) check out Bruzio, just up the coast. Home to beautiful beaches and epic Bruzio hostels .

Leaving Rio de Janeiro, you’ll travel along the coast and experience the Mata Atlântica . Experience the magical hidden getaways like Paraty and Ilha Grande .

The next stop is sprawling São Paulo . You have to experience the concrete jungle even just for a little while. The Pinheiros district makes a great party.

Exhausted after São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro? Of course, you are.

Head to Florianopolis in Santa Catarina to find paradise. Stop by Curitiba on the way there to decompress.

If you can drag yourself away from Florianopolis, head back to Curitiba and head to Iguaçu Falls . It’s a long bus ride, but it’s worth it to see this mighty waterfall. You’ll sleep in Foz de Iguacu , and visit the park from there.

Final destination is Mato Grosso do Sul and the Pantanal. Stay in Bonito and take day trips out to the wetlands to get your David Attenborough on.

Backpacking Brazil 6 Week Itinerary #3: History and Culture

So we’ve seen beaches. We’ve seen cities. Now, on this 6-week Brazil travel itinerary, let’s deep dive into some culture and history.

Starting in Rio Grande do Sul , journey from Porto Alegre to the ruins of São Miguel das Missões . This UNESCO Heritage Site was a Jesuit mission founded for the salvation of the Amerindian locals.

From Rio Grande do Sul to Santa Catarina : the south of Brazil hosts one of the largest concentrations of European immigrants in Brazil. See the German settlement of Blumenau and the Italian Joinville .

After Santa Catarina, continue north to the once capital of imperial, Rio de Janeiro .

Over the passing years, Rio has kept up with whatever was contemporary. For this reason, Rio de Janeiro is a blend of different architectural styles. The city as a whole has been deemed a UNESCO Heritage Site for its harmonious relationship with nature, too.

Next stop is Minas Gerais . Check out the capital, Belo Horizonte , for some of the best food in Brazil. The mining towns of Ouro Preto and Diamantina are super interesting too!

Moving on from Minas Gerais and the past, we enter Brasília and the future. Brasília is Brazil’s new capital and is full of utopian ideals. Take a walk up the “fuselage” and imagine what the founders were thinking when they envisioned Brasília.

Finally, we head northeast and back to the origins of Brazil. Salvador and Olinda are both ground zero for Brazil as we know it today. You can’t miss the colonial architecture and plenty of history.

Backpacking Brazil 3 month Itinerary #4: The Brazil National Parks

I couldn’t justify a backpacking Brazil itinerary without suggesting the national parks. This is definitely a side that few get to experience. But prepare yourself: this backpacking route is a long one!

Visit Rio de Janeiro and visit the parks of Serra dos Órgãos and Itatiaia . Órgãos offers lots of climbing. Itatiaia is meant for more conventional hiking, through the Mata Atlântica and Rio de Janeiro’s highlands.

Next, catch the long bus to Iguaçu Falls . It’s one of the most majestic sights in the world!

After Iguaçu, head north to the Pantanal for some wildlife and a chance to swim in the crystalline waters of the wetlands. Depart from Mato Grosso do Sul to Campo Grande and the northern Pantanal.

In Campo Grande, you will be able to visit the rugged highlands of Chapada dos Guimarães. Check out the awesome falls, and hike up to the top of São Jerônimo Hill for breathtaking views.

From Mato Grosso, head east towards the state of Goiás and Chapada dos Veadeiros . Swim in the rock pools and marvel at surreal geology.

Keep heading east from Goiás and arrive at Chapada Diamantina in Bahia. Trek around the canyons and discover secret grottos.

Leave Chapada Diamantina, and catch a flight in Salvador to the remote Fernando de Noronha . This is heaven! Trek around the islands and find beautiful beaches all to yourself.

Back to the mainland, bus it to the surreal Lençóis Maranhenses . Wander among the bleached dunes and take a dip in the cerulean pools during the rainy season.

Finally, the Amazon Rainforest , of course! Along the way, you’ll visit the Parque Nacional do Jaú , which offers classic amazonian experiences.

Your Brazil backpacking route is going to be an unforgettable ride – no matter which direction you head in! If I listed all the places I think you should see, we’re going to be here for a very… very long time. 

So here’s the down-low on some of the top places to visit in Brazil. It wouldn’t be a legit backpacking Brazil travel guide without them. 

Backpacking Rio de Janeiro

A cidade maravilhosa (the wonderful city) is a blessed place. Its actual name literally means “River of January”: Rio de Janeiro.

Upon first sight, you’ll feel as if that giant Christ statue on the hill was put there by God himself. There are so many things to do in Rio!

Rio is the capital of the state of the same name and is the most likely part of your travels. There are many interesting places to stay in Rio , and each neighbourhood has a different vibe.

The CBD ( Centro ) itself is fairly uninteresting, except for a few museums. The nearby districts of Santa Teresa and Lapa are more noteworthy. Santa Teresa is a lovely artist’s neighbourhood, and Lapa is where the party is.

The real action is in the south of Rio, where the beaches are located. The best hostels in Rio de Janeiro are here too.  Flamengo, Botafogo, Leme, Copacabana beach, Ipanema, and Leblon run back to back to one another and form a substantial strip of sand.

My personal favourite is Ipanema, which is the best beach by far. Be sure to hang around Posto Nove when you’re there.

Rio is infamous for its favelas or “shanty towns”. Some are pacified, and some are actively dangerous.

You can visit a favela, like Rocinha or Vidigal, but don’t go wandering into neighbourhoods you don’t know. Power among gangs is constantly shifting. A favela may be safe one month and a warzone the next.

Ilha Grande, Paraty, and the national parks are iconic. Paraty is an old colonial town that specializes in the distilling of cachaça  (Brazilian rum). Ilha Grande is just beautiful beaches galore.

Backpacking São Paulo

If there’s one word to describe São Paulo it’s really f*ucking massive . Wait… that’s 3 words. 

Nearly 20 million people live in this metropolitan giant. You’re in an ocean of skyscrapers, business centres, electric nightlife, and people just trying to make a life for themselves. 

The best places to stay in São Paulo are the central and western districts. This is where you’re going to find the most exciting action as a visitor. 

There is a big class divide between the very rich and the very poor, which can lead to Sao Paulo feeling unsafe . It can be a very intimidating place to visit, especially if you’re not a city person. But if you find your niche, there is a raucous social scene that awaits you.

People are very keen to express themselves in São Paulo. That means incredible art, soulful music, and lively nightlife. 

Downtown Sampa is where you’ll find the baroque and neoclassical architecture. Check out Catedral da Sé, Theatro Municipal, and the Praça da República for examples of Sampa’s stylistic diversity.

Western District is a much newer, and more dynamic area of the city. You’ll find lots of São Paulo’s best hostels here. 

Jardim Paulista is the fancy pants neighbourhood. Walk up Avenida Paulista, one of São Paulo’s most important throughways. Pay a visit to Sampa’s own Manhattan as well, which is conversely named Brooklin Novo .

A night in Vila Madalena and/or Vila Olímpia is an adventure, for sure: these neighbourhoods are magnets for the young, the successful, and the passionate. Hell, anyone with a beating heart goes out for a good time. Expect more pubs in the former, and clubs in the latter.

If it’s a choice between São Paulo or Rio de Janeiro , we would pick Sao Paulo, hands down!

Backpacking Paraná

So if Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo sound a bit bloody intense – I don’t blame you. Enter: Curitiba, the capital of Paraná. 

This laid-back, modern major Brazilian city is a fine example of places we could be seeing more of in the future. It’s recognised as one of the most innovative cities in the world and has one of the highest standards of living in Brazil. 

The city of Curitiba is a stark contrast to the rest of Brazil: composed, generally safe, and it can even get chilly – hey, maybe even snowy! 

Curitiba is abundant with lush public spaces. The blossoming Jardim Botânico is Curitiba’s pride and joy and resembles most gardens of French royalty. Barigüi Park , Barreirinha Park , and the German Wood are the places to wind down and watch the world go by.

Although lovely, you only need a few days in Curitiba. The rest of Paraná has a similar vibe and won’t let you down if you decide to explore the beaches or more inland here.

Once you travel this far south, you will notice that things begin to look increasingly European. Southern Brazil is where the vast majority of Europeans settled – German and Italian being dominant heritages. As well as the aesthetics of the big cities, notice how the culture and features of the people change.

Backpacking Santa Catarina

Santa Catarina is one of those places that’s definitive of Brazil. You could stop anywhere on the coast of Santa Catarina and find incredible beach hideouts. The state is the definition of ‘natural beauty’. 

People talk about Florianópolis like it’s some made-up universe. When, in reality, it’s even better. As soon as you drive over the bridge onto the island you’re already changing your plans to figure out how you can stay as long as possible.

Life in Floripa is very easy: pristine beaches, a relaxed pace of life, and that holiday feel 24/7. The best places to stay in Floripa are… everywhere. Though, there are certain areas that cater to different interests. 

Central Florianopolis is nothing more than a little central hub. Take a bus here and get yourself out.

Northern Floripa is more resort-y and houses the island’s most popular nightclubs. South, towards Barra da Lagoa , things become less upscale.

Barra is more laid back and where you’ll find the most backpacker hostels in Floripa . Nearby Praia Mole is a popular surfer’s beach.

The far south of Floripa is totally undeveloped. If you enjoy a hike, you can find beaches that are literally abandoned because they require a trek to get to. Lagoinha do Leste is a stunning example of this phenomenon of untouched, hidden shores.

Outside of Florianópolis, check out the party city of Balneário Camboriú . World-famous Warung Beach Club and Green Valley are located just outside.

Joinville is the largest city in the region, and is predominantly Italian. Blumenau is a city of German heritage that hosts the world’s second-largest Oktoberfest.

Backpacking Bahia

Ask Brazilians where the “real” Brazil is, and they’ll most likely say “Salvador de Bahia.” Salvador is the capital of the state of Bahia and the former capital of the original Portuguese colony. The city is a treasure, filled with remnants from the days of colonialism and stories of Brazilian independence.

First: the touristy stuff. The historical district, called the Pelourinho is a bit of a tourist trap but still worth visiting. Be sure to see the important religious sites as well – the Cathedral Basilica of Salvador, Nossa Senhora do Rosário dos Pretos, and Nosso Senhor do Bonfim.

Don’t miss the sunset at the Baía de Todos Santos . Take to the promenade or ride the Elevador Lacerda for the best view.

Salvador hosts the world’s largest Carnaval celebration! Every Carnaval is different, but Salvador’s Carnaval tops even Rio’s and Recife’s. (Am I biased? Maybe.)

If you’re planning on going to this event (and you definitely should) the best hostels in Salvador book up fast. So plan ahead!

Bahian Carnaval is arranged in a giant parade. Floats and trucks troll the streets all night long surrounded a sea of dancing.

Each truck forms a bloco , which is separated from the others by a rope that encircles the crowd. The effect is a giant, moving dance floor, forming the world’s largest street party!

Outside of Salvador, you’ll find plenty of natural beauty. Morro de São Paulo and Itacaré are both wonderful beaches. Locals and tourists alike flock to these to relax and escape madness.

Also worth seeing is Chapada Diamantina to the east of Salvador. This national park is one of Brazil’s outdoor jewels and is worth visiting for a couple of days. Check out the trekking section for more on that!

Backpacking North East Brazil

You’re in Northeastern Brazil now. Here, the climate and culture are distinctly different from the south of Brazil. Like Bahia, the ethnicity is predominantly African, the sun is almost always shining, and the beaches are abundant.

I’d love to speak about each of the northeastern states individually, but for the sake of time, they’re combined into one section. Most of these states will offer similar experiences. I’ll point out certain exceptions along the way.

Pernambuco and its capital Recife are the first stops. It’s one of the most historically significant cities in Brazil. Plus there are some incredible hostels in Recife !

The Old City and nearby Olinda are wonderful examples of Dutch and Portuguese Colonialism. Streetwalkers will notice the many canals that weave throughout the city as well.

The locals have dubbed their city Veneza Brasileira (Brazilian Venice) because of these waterways. The city beaches of Recife are also fantastic.

Outside of Recife, there are lots of beach towns to check out. Porto Galinhas, Itamaracá, and Cabo de Santo Agostinho are wonderful examples.

Next up is Natal and the state of Rio Grande do Norte . Natal is a more laid-back city than Recife.

The economy of Natal developed more slowly than the rest of the north east. What it lacks in vibrancy and historical significance, it makes up for with a higher quality of life and public safety.

The beaches surrounding Natal are some of the best in the north east. Pipa and Genipabu are loved dearly by Brazilians, for (what else?) the perfect sand and water.

When you’re ready, create your own adventure in the other states: Sergipe, Alagoas, and Paraíba.

Backpacking Jericoacoara

The beach. The myth. The legend. Jericoacoara.

For many unknown reasons, Jericoacoara is the promised land for backpackers and hippies. I’ve known many people backpacking Brazil who have travelled north based only on a rumour. Upon arriving and discovering that this El Dorado does indeed exist, they quickly disappear into the depths of its pleasures.

The fame of Jericoacoara isn’t undeserved though. Time is non-existent. The streets are too – just white sand and stones.

People lounge in hammocks that rise picturesquely out of the shallows. Ah, Paradise.

Kitesurfing is famous in Jericoacoara. If you’re not fancying that, there’s a whole lot of bumming around to do. You can walk the nearby National Park and the Pedra Furada – a half-day is sufficient for both.

Those wanting to visit Jericoacoara will most likely pass through Fortaleza, the capital of Ceará , the last big city in Northeastern Brazil. Fortaleza is not quite as clean as Natal, and not quite as rich as Recife. It’s a bit behind in many ways, but it still has its charm.

The performing arts – specifically comedy, and a local dance style called forro – are strong in Fortaleza. Nightlife is also booming, but do it safely.

Backpacking Iguaçu Falls

Iguaçu Falls is not to be missed! It is truly one of the most awe-inspiring sights in the world.

Iguaçu Falls is composed of nearly 275 falls that range between 200 and 270 ft in height. It is the world’s widest waterfall, and probably the most engrossing.

There are walkways that put you literally in the middle of the canyons where you’ll be surrounded on three sides by waterfalls. You will get wet, and you will love it.

Iguaçu is actually split between Brazil and Argentina: it’s one of the best places to cross the border to go and backpack Argentina too. So go ahead and see if from both sides!

The Brazilian side skims the edge of the falls and gives a better panoramic view. The Argentinian side traverses the top of the falls and gives a more up-close and personal experience. From the Argentine side, you get to stare down into A Garganta do Diabo (The Devil’s Throat), which is pretty fucking cool.

There’s a hot debate about which side is better. But we’re backpacking Brazil here… So it’s definitely Brazil, obviously.

Accommodation wise, you’ll be staying in the sleepy town of Foz do Iguacu . The town pretty much serves only as a gateway for the falls. Find the right hostel though, and your stay could be a lot of fun.

Backpacking Pantanal

The Amazon isn’t the only place where you can spot wildlife in Brazil: in the south of Brazil, there is the Pantanal wetlands. The Pantanal is actually considered the biggest  freshwater ecosystem in the world.

The chances of seeing animals are huge here; reportedly even better than in the Amazon actually. Local wildlife include capybaras, giant anteaters, rheas, jaguars, and lots more!

Given its size, there are several ways to access the Pantanal. The two most popular entryways are via Cuiabá of Mato Grosso , and Campo Grande/Bonito in the southern state Mato Grosso do Sul . Those coming from Iguaçu Falls will probably find Campo Grande more convenient.

Campo Grande is a large, modern city that is well-known for its cattle industry. Visit a local churrascaria for some intensely delicious barbecued meats. 

Though Campo Grande gives access to the Pantanal, the real jewel is Bonito . Bonito is an eco-tourist destination that offers way more activities. Snorkel in the crystal clear Rio da Prata or visit one of the local caves to have your mind blown by the blue views.

Cuiabá is a small but vibrant city and very close to northern Pantanal. There’s actually a road, the Transpantaneira Highway, that runs directly into the Pantanal from the city. Motorists will have lots of opportunities to see breeding and feeding grounds on the side of the road.

Cuiabá is also a very convenient base to explore the nearby national park, Chapada dos Veadeiros . Veadeiros is a stunning area known for its ecological diversity, unique geology and stunning landscape. Rent a car in Cuiabá and visit both the park and the Transpantaneira in a few days.

Backpacking The Amazon

The Amazon Rainforest is tied with beaches as the most recognizable feature of Brazil. The Amazon is the largest rainforest in the world.

There are reportedly over 400 billion individual trees there. That is more than fifty times the world’s human population.

Navigating such a large area can be daunting but your main gateway is going to be Manaus. Belém  is sometimes considered a jumping-off point but it’s far east and closer to the coast. A boat trip from Belém to Manaus may be worthwhile to some, as trips are quite lazy and chill.

From Manaus, you can charter a boat to take you up the Amazon River. While cruising the river, keep an eye out for all of those critters you grew up reading about – the pink river dolphin, three-toed sloth, and piranhas! The nearest national park is called Jaú , and it’s located very close to Manaus.

You might want to try Ayahuasca while visiting the Amazon. This traditional and powerful hallucinogenic medicine has long been used to treat post-traumatic stress disorders, depression, and addictions. I strongly recommend you find a reputable Shaman or join a healing lodge to appreciate this sacred ceremony.

Adventurous folk can ride the rivers all the way to the borders of Colombia or Peru. Heading towards the former on the Rio Negro , backpackers will have the chance to stop and see Pico da Neblina . Neblina is the highest mountain in Brazil and has a very distinct profile.

Backpacking Minas Gerais

Some people swear by Minas Gerais and its capital, Belo Horizonte , as the best city in Brazil though. It has a stunning example of nightlife in Brazil.

Belo Horizonte is the “bar capital of Brazil”. Thousands – twelve thousand, if you believe the local reports – of bars line the city streets, and every night they fill up. Locals come to shoot the shit and touch glasses.

The scene is a striking contrast to the hedonistic revelry found in Rio and Sampa. Drinking aside, Belo Horizonte is also where you’ll find the most farms and, therefore, the best food in Brazil.

Minas Gerais is also famous for its colonial towns. Most are remnants from the days when the state was a center for the mining industry. Painstakingly preserved, these villages are a lovely journey back in time.

Ouro Preto is probably the most famous of these villages. Tiradentes and Diamantina are also worthy destinations.

Off the Beaten Path Travel in Brazil

In a country that’s bigger than Europe, you can imagine there are a plethora of places off the tourist trail . This is one of my favourite things about Brazil: you have every opportunity to make a route that no one else has made before. With a little patience, you can get pretty much everywhere.

And you should! Because off the beaten path, nature comes incredibly intimidating, culture is shocking, and food tastes delicious. 

The federal capital of Brazil is Brasília . It’s a bit out of the way but if you’re interested in architecture and/or Brazilian politics then it’s a must-see. If you’re not into those things though, you can happily skip over Brasília. 

Most backpackers don’t even consider the most Southern Brazil, Rio Grande do Sul . It’s a shame: Porto Alegre is one of my favourite cities in Brazil.

It’s a quiet place with a high standard of living but there aren’t many attractions. So why visit Rio Grande do Sul? Because the people are downright beautiful – that’s why. 

Aparados da Serra is a cool canyonland to the north of Porto Alegre with lots of hiking. To the west, São Miguel das Missões is one of Brazil’s most important heritage sites.

The state of Maranhão gets little attention compared to it’s southeastern neighbors. But this state has one BIG thing going for it: Lençóis Maranhenses National Park. This surreal park mostly consists of bleach-white sand dunes. 

During the short rainy season (May-September) the dunes fill with rainwater and small, landlocked lagoons form. It’s a surreal experience; elegant sheets of sand ( lencois means “bed sheets” in Portuguese) are painted with the cerulean colors of the lagoons. The scene definitely resembles a painter’s easel.

We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

Want more deetz on why these packs are so  damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

1. Party at Carnaval, of course!

Be a part of the biggest party on Earth and one of the most famous festivals in the world ! Nearly the entire country shuts down for a week while everyone gets their last kicks in before Lent at Brazil’s biggest festival .

2. Learn Portuguese

Portuguese is a gorgeous language. Stick around the country for a while and learn a bit of it. You’ll be one of the locals in no time.

3. Check out the National Parks

Brazil’s beaches get all of the attention, but its landscape is just as spectacular! Visit one of the national parks and see a more rugged side of the country.

4. Fall in Love

Brazilian people are some of the most beautiful in the world! So if you’re ready for your story of love and sex on the road to unravel, this is definitely a place you won’t ever forget. You’d have to be an amoeba to not feel a little flushed around these intoxicating people.

5. Play on the Beach

Brazil has more than 4,600 miles of coastline! Go surfing, swimming, play volleyball, and smoke a nice joint while soaking in that vitamin D.

6. Get stuck somewhere

You know when you travel somewhere and all of a sudden you get that intense sense of belonging? Like you just never want to leave? Yeah… that’s pretty much Brazil in a nutshell.

So plan accordingly. Leave some time for those places that just steal your heart.

7. Watch a football match

In case you weren’t already aware, Brazil is football crazy! Sometimes a little too crazy, but that is what we want, isn’t it?

You don’t even have to necessarily go to a football game either. You’re probably going to see amateurs around and about; they’ll play basically anywhere. They’re very used to passersby stopping to catch some of the game too. So when you’re not in a hurry (who’s in a hurry?) stop to see how Brazilians become the word champions time and again.

8. Visit the Amazon or Pantanal

No doubt, you know that Brazil is home to the world’s largest rainforest. You’ve been hearing stories about this mystical place since you were a kid. Finally , you can experience it for yourself.

As well as the Amazon, Brazil also houses the largest wetland in the world, Pantanal! Between these, you can imagine all the incredible and unique wildlife that thrives.

9. Be humbled by Iguacu Falls

There are few sites in the world that are as mighty as Iguaçu Falls! Feel the power as tons of water spill over the edge and into the void.

10. Get out of the city!

Look, I know Brazil is famous for these insane big cities. But if you think that the culture is famous in major Brazilian cities, like Rio de Janeiro, imagine the extent of the culture outside of it. That’s where you’re going to find all the real food, music, parties, and general life.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Brazil hostels are lively places and very common. Only in the most remote places will you need to resort to some other form of accommodation.

A good hostel should run you about $10-$15 in all of the major cities. You could find a bed for less than $10, but I would never pay more than $15 unless forced.

Many of the lesser-visited destinations – the beach towns, and especially the northeastern cities – are usually cheaper. It’s also where you’ll find some of the world’s most stunning hostels .

Pousadas are common. Essentially, a pousada is a local guesthouse; local vibes, cool people, and lots of options for all budgets.

Note that accommodation is subject to seasonal rates . This trend is very noticeable when backpacking Brazil. Rates could double or triple based on the time of year.

When you’re in the wild, you’ll have to find some other way to rest your head. Fazendas are local ranches that essentially serve as a guesthouse and a farm at the same time. These can be a lot of fun!

Camping and lodges are very common in the jungle as well. Expect lots of these in places like the Amazon, Pantanal, and national parks.

Finally: be aware of the “motels” or moteis while backpacking Brazil. These are almost always exclusively used for sex, and most people only stay an hour or two, for obvious reasons.

The Best Places to Stay in Brazil

There’s nothing like the feeling when you find yourself in that killer accommodation. So here’s a quick rundown of the best of the best!

By South American standards, the cost of living in Brazil is quite expensive. Without caution, travel expenses can add up quickly.

Those who want to go backpacking through Brazil with relative comfort should budget $40-$50 per day. That will get you a nice dorm bed, food and snacks, a meal in a restaurant, and some fun on the side. But hey, it’s easy to save money on these things too.

If you’re flying around Brazil, backpacking and heading on a load of excursions, be prepared to pay for it. Though if you’re prepared to slow it down, travelling on a budget is easily doable.

Prices in Brazil fluctuate heavily depending on the time of year too: the peak season is between December and April when locals are gearing up for Carnaval. This is where your Brazil trip costs would be at the highest point.

The price of a bed during the big holidays like New Year and Carnaval could triple or even quadruple. This effect is nationwide.

Prices will fall dramatically around the end of April. July rises slightly again for the Brazilian school holiday but this is brief.

Now you know all that, maybe using Couchsurfing is an answer. Brazilians are very hospitable and you’re usually getting a way better experience than just a bed. One of my hosts in São Paulo actually gave us the full apartment while we had to COVID quarantine for 10 days.

Partying in Brazil can suck your cash the most if you’re not careful. A beer here, a cocktail there, a bit of coke?

A Daily Budget for Brazil

So now we’ve covered the nitty-gritty, here’s a quick summary of what you can expect with the cost per day while backpacking Brazil.

Money in Brazil

The real is the national currency of Brazil, and this little guy likes to fluctuate…

As of October 2023, the current exchange rate is $1 USD = 5 Reales

ATMs are widely available throughout the country and chip and pin is pretty big here. So if you have an international card here you should be good. Most ATMs charge a transaction fee for foreign cards.

Just a heads up: there are reports of people having their credit card information stolen at ATMs. This is uncommon but can be avoided by exclusively using machines at official banks.

There are some remote parts of Brazil that have fewer cash withdrawal services or don’t accept cards. These locations are very remote though. Carry some cash, but not an excessive amount, unless you feel like losing it.

Robberies aren’t uncommon in Brazil. They are more common if you’re a doofus though.

If you’ve enough money to travel to Brazil, you’re going to see a lot of people poorer than you. Some of those people need money desperately.

Just be smart and hide your valuables well to avoid trouble. I’ve known people to actually carry a “dummy” wallet on them just in case a robbery should occur.

Travel Banking for Brazil

For all matters of finance and accounting on the road, The Broke Backpacker strongly recommends  Wise  – The artist is formerly known as transferwise! Our favourite online platform for holding funds, transferring money, and even paying for goods,

Wise is a 100% FREE platform with considerably lower fees than Paypal or traditional banks. Really, it even beats out Western Union .

Travel Tips – Brazil on a Budget

Hey, I was backpacking Brazil on a very similar budget to some of the cheapest places in the world. To keep your spending to an absolute minimum whilst backpacking Brazil I recommend sticking to the basic rules of budget adventuring….

• Hitchhike; In Brazil, it is relatively easy to thumb a ride. Hitchhiking is an ace way to keep your transport costs down.
• Camp; With plenty of gorgeous natural places to camp, Brazil is a dream. If you have a good quality tent , it’s usually much cheaper to pitch than staying in guesthouses. Sometimes you can even pitch for free.
• Couchsurfing; Hey, Brazilians are great hosts. When you find a host, you’re definitely made to feel at home while saving some dolla’.
• Eat local food; Street food is usually cheap. Look for the “prato feito” (prepared plate) or Marmitex too. They’re cheap and big enough to feed you all day. If you’re on a real tight budget – it’s worth taking a good portable stove .
• Pack a travel water bottle and save money every day!

Why You Should Travel to Brazil with a Water Bottle

Brazil is a place where nature is thriving more than most places on the whole planet. It makes it that much more heartbreaking when you see it littered with plastic. So please try to make a positive impact on the problem.

You can’t save the world overnight but you can make a difference! So I hope you become more inspired to continue being a responsible traveller .

Plus, now you won’t be buying overpriced bottles of water from the supermarkets either! Travel with a filtered water bottle instead, keep nature happy, and never waste a cent again.

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

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Due to its huge size and drastic diversity, the climate in Brazil changes dramatically. But we can break Brazil down into 3 general areas: South/Central , Northeas t, and North .

Generally speaking, between November and March , the southern half of Brazil is rainy season . This coincides with the southern hemisphere’s summer. You can pretty much count on getting wet during this time.

Though nearly every state in this region has a hot humid summer, not everyone experiences the same winter. The southern states can be markedly cold in the winter.

This is a relative chill though. People from Northern Europe or America will still feel very warm.

The Northeastern section of Brazil receives tropical rains between April and August . This means that it pisses it down, but you can probably guarantee sun in a few hours. The temperature is very steady throughout the year in the Northeast.

If you leave the northeastern coast and travel inland, you’ll end up in the sertão , or “Brazilian Outback.” This is a desert and receives very little of the Northeast’s tropical rain. Draught is a frequent occurrence in the sertão.

The North consists mostly of the Amazon Rainforest. It pretty much rains all year in the Amazon. Some parts of the Amazon do see a more observable “dry season” between the months of July and December, but it still rains a lot. It’s hotter during dryer months too.

Depending on your preference, the north of Brazil can be visited year-round. But both seasons offer pros and cons.

The Amazonian dry season has better access to trails and fewer mosquitoes. The wet season has easier river navigation and cooler temperatures.

What to Pack for Brazil

Your South America packing list is likely to look very different than when you’re travelling to other continents. For starters, a mosquito net is invaluable. Actually, just bring everything to prepare for those little bastards.

As well as this, there are 6 things I wouldn’t travel to Brazil without:

Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

Sea To Summit Micro Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

Grayl Geopress Water Bottle

Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!

You’ve probably heard some horror stories about how dangerous Brazil is. But let me get it straight: Brazil is safe to travel to.

That’s not to say it’s without its problems. For sure, I never saw someone being chased by some loco wielding a knife until I went to São Paulo. Yet, I left São Paulo completely unscathed.

If you’re following standard safety practices , like you should everywhere in the world , crime is very unlikely to affect you. If you do find yourself in an unfortunate situation though, don’t resist; it’s really not worth the risk.

For me, the most dangerous part of Brazil was some stairs. Yes… the stairs.

I slipped in the rain and broke my back. So if you’re a clumsy arse, like me, be aware that health and safety regulations don’t have your back here. (See what I did there?)

Criminals target drunks because they are easy prey. Tourists have that invisible dollar sign floating above your head. So just be cautious, don’t wander into parts of town you know nothing about, and you needn’t be worried.

Be aware that drinking is not as ingrained in Brazilian culture as in the rest of the Western World. Most of those backpacking Brazil can go a little harder than usual. In this kinda state, again, you’re an easy target.

Keep an eye out for the Brazilian police as well. These guys are underpaid, stressed out, potentially corrupt, and a lot of times just don’t give a shit.

Now, I’m not saying that all policia are bad; there are always exceptions. I’m saying don’t risk breaking the law and dealing with the guy who’s had a bad day.

Lastly, many mosquito-borne illnesses like yellow fever and Zika are extremely uncommon nowadays. Though there’s no shortage of those little bastards so prepare yourself for mosquitos .

Sex, Drugs, and Rock n’ Roll

If you’ve been paying attention to this guide, then it’s pretty clear that Brazil loves to party. Carnaval is the world’s most renowned party . For Carnaval, all usual rules go out the window: dress code, dignity, and even monogamy – in some cases.

So how to party SAFELY while backpacking in Brazil? Instead of talking about the irresponsible amount of coke and sex that you can have, I’m going to share some words of caution.

Of course, we are in South America now. So drugs on the road are almost unavoidable. Drug dealers are notorious for trying to scam naive tourists.

Generally, tourists are just easy to mug off. You arrive at a beautiful beach and all you want is a fat joint. Many of those mugs are ready to pay whatever extortionate price they are quoted.

They’re probably going to cut coke with a lot of shit – that’s just the truth. Unsuspecting tourists who don’t know any better can end up getting really fucked up.

Just be aware of who you are buying from. Don’t ever go searching for a score on your own! Tourists in the wrong part of town with large wads of cash, ready to score drugs make easy targets.

Try and enlist the help of a local. Hostel staff, though apprehensive, will usually have your best interest in mind.

Prostitution in Brazil

Look, I’m not going to beat around the bush when it comes to sex tourism in Brazil . (No pun intended.) Sex is one of Brazil’s biggest exports.

Prostitution is – and always has been – a legitimate profession. And there will always be a market for this service too. So it’s important that it’s addressed with respect and safety in mind.

The HIV/AIDS epidemic has stymied in the last few years, but the disease isn’t completely eradicated. If you do lay with a hooker, please wrap your tool.

A common scam is prostitutes robbing you blind while you’re knocked out from that wild ride too. It doesn’t happen all the time, but be aware of it. Secure your belongings in a safe place, which you should be doing while backpacking around Brazil anyways.

And most importantly, just be considerate. They are humans, regardless of their profession, and they deserve respect, like everyone else.

Getting Insured BEFORE Visiting Brazil

Look, I know that having to pay for something you hopefully won’t use sounds very unexciting. But believe me, if (and when) things don’t go to plan, being prepared is a huge weight lifted. That’s why good travel insurance is essential BEFORE you start your adventure.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

There are many entries to Brazil by land and air. Almost every major Brazilian city has an international airport. São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro are the largest airports in the country. Chances are you’ll probably fly into one of these.

You can fly directly to Brazil from pretty much every continent with the exception of Australia. You can generally find cheap flights to Brazil after April – once the holidays are over.

In case you’re not geographically aware: Brazil shares a border with every South American country besides Ecuador and Chile. With the exception of Suriname and French Guiana – where there are no roads – you can cross the land border from any of these.

Note that travelling by road, especially by bus, can take a long time in South America. Journeying between capitals can take days.

Most of Brazil’s border crossings are safe. The ones in the south are especially secure. Border crossings do become limited and tedious when you’re in the Amazonas region, but the outposts shouldn’t hassle you any more than usual.

The Venezuelan border has become strict in the last few years following the nation’s economic collapse. Tourists travelling in Venezuela are not targeted too heavily: the increased security is mostly to control the influx of fleeing Venezuelans. But it is surely not the most friendly experience in the world.

Entry Requirements for Brazil

Depending on your nationality, visitors applying for a Brazilian tourist visa fall into one of three categories:

• visa-free nations that require an ID card
• visa-free nations that require a passport
• nations that require a visa

Nearly every South American nation can enter Brazil visa-free with only an ID card. The exceptions are Suriname , French Guiana , and Guyana . These nations require a passport, but not a visa.

Aside from Venezuela, all South American nationals can stay in Brazil for up to 90 days. Venezuelans can only stay 60 days.

Many countries can enter Brazil visa-free with only a passport. Most Western nationalities, including the US, UK, and EU, are included in this category.

Some Asian and African nationalities are also included. Be sure to check your country’s status.

Some nationalities unfortunately need to pay for a visa to enter Brazil. These fees are based upon reciprocity i.e. whatever your nation charges for Brazilians to enter, Brazil charges you. Depending on your nationality, the fees can also be quite high.

Thankfully, Brazil has implemented an e-visa program in the last few years that has greatly streamlined the process. These e-Visas are convenient and sometimes cheaper.

E-Visas are not available to every country though. Be sure to check the Brazilian immigration website for specific details.

Buses are South America’s bread and butter. Understanding the system is easy and, once you’re familiar, it’s one of the most useful travel tips for the continent . You can get just about anywhere with them.

It’s just a case of preparing yourself: Brazil is massive and journeys can be long. Luckily, long-distance buses are very comfortable and the roads are smooth.

The sleeper buses in particular are very nice. I slept through many a multi-day journey on these sleepers like a baby. Long-distance buses will, of course, have a bathroom and stop for food every 4 hours or so.

Buying bus tickets in advance is recommended. It’s pretty disappointing to plan your journey to find out the bus you wanted to be on is sold out. Plus, companies will sometimes charge you less if you book in advance at the bus station.

Depending on your personal requirements, you can use domestic flights to get around Brazil. These days, air travel is becoming more affordable so planes are becoming more realistic for broke backpackers.

Brazil’s airports are generally well connected. There are “corridor” lines from big destinations such as São Paolo, Rio de Janeiro, Salvador, etc. that offer cheaper flights to and from smaller destinations.

It is cheaper to purchase domestic tickets from inside Brazil too. This way, you avoid extra taxes.

Hitchhiking in Brazil

Travelling by hitchhiking in Brazil is comparable to many other large, industrialized countries, risks and rewards included. In touristy areas, you should find a ride easy enough. Locals are super friendly.

In less touristy areas, there’s every chance you may not find a ride at all and it can be pretty dodgy. I have personal reports to avoid the Northeast and the state of Espírito Santo.

Take the usual precautions, and use the same strategies. Note that Brazilian drivers do have a reputation for being reckless. You could also be mingling with dangerous types while waiting for a ride in the cities.

Onwards Travel From Brazil

Brazil shares a border with nearly every other South American country, apart from Chile  and Ecuador . Travel by bus is pretty straightforward.

They are very accustomed to moving people across borders in South America. It can be a bit cheaper but make sure you have all your documents prepared to avoid being stopped.

All borders can vary slightly, I’m not writing gospel here: it will pay to do your own research. But you may need to show the following documents:

• Passport or ID card
• Visa (if required)
• Your entry/exit card (given to you when you arrive in Brazil)
• Proof of onward travel
• Proof of vaccinations (Covid, Yellow Fever etc. if required)

Flying across borders is a little less strict. But still, do I have to remind you – a traveller – to prepare your documents well, again?

Visas are either issued at the border or are available as an e-Visa. Every passport has its own restrictions, so be sure to check with your government’s website.

Some South American countries want proof of Yellow Fever vaccination. If you’ve received one, make sure to have the document with you for proof.

Providing proof of onward travel is sometimes enforced, and sometimes not. If you find yourself without an onwards ticket, maybe you could talk your way out of it. Just be polite and you should be fine.

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Getting a traditional job in Brazil isn’t straightforward. Although unemployment isn’t as high as it is in other South American countries, work visas are pretty hard to come by – unless you’re from another South American country and part of the Mercosur .

But wait! Brazil is becoming an increasingly popular place for home working: beautiful nature, reasonable costs of living, and epic activities make one hell of a country for digital nomads .

Digital nomads might be drawn to typical Brazilian hotspots like Rio de Janeiro or São Paulo. They’re hectic to live in, expensive, fiercely competitive, and not overly safe. If that’s your jam, cool – you’re gonna love it.

But did you really come to Brazil to work in a massive metropolis when you’re surrounded by paradise? Co-working spaces are popping up everywhere. Internet is mostly trustworthy and life is certainly sweet.

I am slightly biased toward Florianopolis : it is probably the most ideal place to live in Brazil – nomads and locals alike. The beaches are incredible, there are tons of things to do, and the quality of life is fantastic.

I really had to drag myself away from my tropical, beachside garden paradise. I can easily see myself back there one day.

But go and find your own haven. Belo Horizonte, Bahia, and backpacker hideout Jericoacoara all have growing communities too.

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

Volunteering in Brazil

Volunteering abroad is an amazing way to experience a culture whilst helping out a host. There are plenty of different volunteer projects in Brazil including teaching, construction, agriculture, and pretty much anything.

High levels of poverty mean Brazil is in desperate need of volunteers to offer a helping hand. English teaching, animal care, and social work are all areas where backpackers can make a big difference. Digital skills are also increasingly sought after including, web development, content writing, and photography.

You may need a temporary work visa to volunteer in Brazil. If so, apply before you go.

Programs run through reputable work exchange programs , like Worldpackers or Workaway , are generally very well-managed and highly reputable. Just remember to be responsible, especially if you’re working with animals or children.

Signing up for Worldpackers is a great way to connect to local hosts with volunteer opportunities. As a Broke Backpacker reader, you’ll also get a special discount of $10. Just use the discount code BROKEBACKPACKER and your membership is discounted from $49 a year to only $39.

Brazil is one of the most ethnically diverse places in the world. Brazil’s breadth of colour comes from its colonial roots and forms its unique culture. Diversity is sung in Brazil and they are generally open about their race.

Fairer Europeans travelled across the ocean to the New World and settled in Brazil. They brought with them ebony slaves from Africa and subjugated the native Amerindian people. Eventually, all of these cultures commingled and gave birth to this dramatic, rhythmic, passionate nation.

There is something about the warmth of Brazil that goes beyond the weather. Brazilians are a famously lovely and smiley people. Expect them to be very up-front and touchy.

Also, expect very candid conversations. Brazilians love to share their deepest secrets with others and have no shame in telling you how they feel.

Having European influences, the Brazilian culture is actually quite western. There are some who argue its place in Western society. In my opinion, though, it’s Western enough to warrant some worthy comparisons.

In other areas, Afro-Brazilian culture is dominant and the strong African influence is unmissable. This beautifully brilliant blend leads to some of the best music, art, and language in the world. These cultures combined with the native culture and respect create something you won’t find anywhere else.

Brazil relies heavily upon an industrialized economy and workforce. In fact, more Brazilians live in an urban setting than North Americans – 87% vs 79%.

It’s safe to say that Brazilian society is relatively modern. Much of the Brazilian mindset is in line with most of the developed world.

Useful Travel Phrases for Brazil

People often make the mistake of thinking that Brazil speaks Spanish, much to the ire of the locals. Brazil was a part of the Portuguese Empire. Brazil speaks Portuguese .

Though if you are a Spanish speaker, particularly familiar with South American Spanish, this will stand you in very good stead. It’s Latin based and the written form does look a lot like Spanish. Once you understand some minor differences, you’ll find many similarities.

Brazilian Portuguese is a gorgeous language and very different sounding from European Portuguese. The pronunciations could be mistaken for different languages. Brazilian Portuguese can sound like they are almost singing.

Even if their dialect and slang throw you off, locals will really appreciate you speaking some Portuguese. Though in many places it will actually be crucial to backpacking Brazil because English is not commonly spoken. This means it’s a great place to learn another language .

Arming yourself with some key phrases gets you off to a good start. Here’s a list of some of the most useful.

• Bom dia/boa tarde/boa noite  – Good morning/afternoon/night
• Tudo bem?  – All good?
• Meu nome é…  – My name is…
• Onde fica a banheiro?  – Where is the toilet?
• (O)brigado/(O)brigada**  – Thank you
• Que saudades! – It’s been so long (since I’ve seen you)!
• Até logo – see you later
• Nenhum saco de plástico  – No plastic bag
• Posso comprar um bilhete – Can I buy a ticket?
• Que horas são? – What time is it?
• Você fala inglês?  – Do you speak English?
• Quanto custo?  – How much?
• Valeu  – Cool/thanks/cya

** Obrigado changes depending on the gender of the speaker. Men say obrigado . Women say obrigada. Though their language towards gender is still developing and there isn’t actually a neutral option – so I say use whatever you feel like really.

What to Eat in Brazil

Brazil has a reputation for a lot of street food involving meat and a lot of frying. Let me just tell you now, it’s true and it’s delicious. You will not struggle to find this kind of food.

But I would be doing Brazil a dishonour if I stopped there: Brazilian cuisine is fantastic! With all this crazy climate, things just grow in Brazil. One of the best things to do in Brazil is eating your body weight in exotic edibles.

Fruit drops off trees faster than you can eat it. I had 2 months of mangos and avocados coming out of my ears.

Traditionally, Brazilian food is a mix of European, Amerindian, and African styles. That being said, Brazilian cuisine is extremely variable. The food on your plate could be completely different depending on what region you’re in.

Broadly speaking, each region will use more or less a specific culinary style. The Northeast will be lots of African food. The Amazon will have more Amerindian food. The Southeast will have more European food.

Must-Try Dishes in Brazil

There are plenty of dishes that are essential to try when you’re visiting Brazil. Here is a list of some top ones.

• feijão  – bean stew with meat and vegetables
• acai  – dark berry often served sorbet style
• pão de queijo – cheesey bread bites
• Romeu e Julieta – guava paste – in cheese, obviously
• coxinhas  – magic fried stuffed mashed potato
• vatapa  – creamy dish w/ shrimp, nuts, coconut
• acarajé – hard to describe but damn delicious
• pastéis  – fried pastries
• beijinho de coco  – coconut truffles
• churrasco – barbecued meats
• cachaça  – distilled spirit made from sugarcane
• caipirinha  – mixed drink using cachaça, fruit, and sugar

A Brief History of Brazil

The history of Brazil dates long before the arrival of the Portuguese. For thousands of years, indigenous people – specifically, the tupi and guarani – inhabited this land.

Unlike the Peruvian Maya, they were a nomadic people who moved frequently in pursuit of food and treasures, like the brazilwood, cherished for the red dye it yields. Most of these people died from diseases brought by visiting Europeans. Many indigenous people never even met a European, though they still perished from their diseases.

Following the arrival of Europeans in the 17th Century, Brazil became a colony of ‘the new world’. The region was mostly controlled by the Portuguese Empire, though the Dutch held a few settlements in the north around Recife.

For centuries to come, the Portuguese would fight with the Dutch, Amerindians, and revolting slaves. The discovery of sugar, gold, rubber, and other precious resources made Brazil a valuable place.

In 1822, Brazil became independent from Portugal. This iteration was labelled the Brazilian Empire and included modern-day Brazil and Uruguay.

Slavery was widely practiced , even more so than in the United States. Over the next 150 years, Brazil would morph several times, from kingdom to republic to military dictatorship to what it is today.

Modern-day Brazil is a democratic country. Years of imperialism followed by despotism have left Brazil a nation with much to consider.

Though the nation is immensely rich, inequality is grossly apparent. Many have tried to reform Brazil for the betterment of the people, only to be setback by corruption and greed.

Like many new world countries, Brazil is a question waiting to be answered. Can wealth and social equality coexist? Only time will tell.

Your backpacking Brazil trip is not going to look like anyone else’s. You have the opportunity to make your experience in Brazil totally unique. However you think your trip to Brazil will go, you can very well find yourself falling in love with something (or someone?) and end up with a great story to tell.

Things go wrong on the road ALL THE TIME. Be prepared for what life throws at you.

Buy an AMK Travel Medical Kit before you head out on your next adventure – don’t be daft!

Trekking in Brazil

Trekking probably isn’t the first thing that pops into one’s mind when they plan on backpacking through Brazil. It’s a shame because Brazil has some of the best trails in the world .

The best hiking opportunities are usually to be found in the parques nacionais (national parks). Brazil has over 70 national parks, so you have plenty of options.

If you organize treks through tour companies, they will provide you with equipment. Maybe you’ll just need a solid pair of hiking boots . Bringing your own gear is always the best way to save cash though.

Consider buying a tent and a sleeping mat, or ditch both and get a hammock. A wilderness stove is also a good idea for making a kitchen wherever you go.

The Best Hikes in Brazil

• Serra dos Órgãos, Rio de Janeiro – Large geological area located just north of Rio. Famous for picturesque, organ pipe spires. Passionate climbers may attempt these challenging mountains, including the iconic Dedo de Deus (Finger of God).
• Itatiaia, Rio de Janeiro – Oldest national park in Brazil. Good mix of rainforest (Mata Atlântica) and mountainous terrain. Hike up to the Prateleiras massif, or Pico das Agulhas Negras. Stumble across insane waterfalls.
• Aparados da Serra and Serra Geral – Twin parks created to protect the sensitive ecology of Brazil’s southern canyonlands. Located between Santa Catarina and Rio Grande da Sul. Most impressive is Itaimbezinho . Hike either above the rim, or into the reaches via multi-day wilderness backpacking trips.
• Chapada dos Veadeiros, Goiás – Huge waterfalls, and some of the oldest geology in the world. Latter is thought to have special properties. See the surreal Vale da Lua (Valley of the Moon) and picturesque Santa Barbara Falls. Hike via the park’s two longest trails: Canyons and Saltos.
• Chapada dos Guimarães, Mato Grosso – Dramatic highlands complete with waterfalls. Take a short trek to Guimarães’s most recognizable falls – Veú de Noiva. Or see several via the Circuito das Cachoeiras. Hike on the São Jerónimo trail for the panoramic view.
• Chapada Diamantina – One of Brazil’s premier outdoor areas. Consists of escarpments, waterfalls, and underground pools. Must see is one of Brazil’s highest waterfalls, Cachoeira da Fumaça, and the perfectly blue water of Poço Encantado cave. Spend a few hours hiking up to Morro do Pai Inácio for a great view, or several days trekking into the Vale do Patí.

Diving in Brazil

Fernando de Noronha is the best place to go diving in Brazil. Noronha is an archipelago located about 200 miles northeast of Recife in the middle of the Atlantic. Most arrive by plane, but there are ferries running during the high season.

There are lots of coral and sea caves to explore here. The coral isn’t too bright, but the colourful tropical fish more than make up for this. Discover dolphins, turtles, and the occasional whale shark.

Diving aside, Fernando de Noronha is one of the most beautiful places in Brazil. Many locals call it “the Hawaii of Brazil”.

Because of its natural significance, Fernando de Noronha is a designated national park. For that reason, the islands are very regulated in order to preserve the ecosystem. There are very few roads and very few human settlements.

Visiting some islands in the archipelago require permits. No matter where you go, expect high prices; potentially the highest prices that you’ll find while backpacking Brazil.

Joining an Organized Tour in Brazil

For most countries, Brazil included, solo travel is the name of the game. That said, if you are short on time and energy while backpacking Brazil, or you just want to be part of an awesome group of travellers, you can opt to join an organized tour .

G Adventures  is a solid down-to-earth tour company catering to backpackers just like you, and their prices and itineraries reflect the interests of the backpacker crowd. You can score some pretty sweet deals on epic trips in Brazil for a fraction of the price of what other tour operators charge.

Now, armed with your new backpacking Brazil travel guide, you are ready to take on the epic journey. This is one truly mighty country. Brazil will open your eyes and brand your soul.

While this is invigorating, keep your head screwed on. Brazil is one of those countries that doesn’t stop for anyone. No matter what’s going on over there, the hamster wheel is still running. 

You’ll need to bring your best sense of adventure. Using that Portuguese will help you out too.

Brazil tests you, changes you, and you leave feeling like you’ve achieved something massive. Those stories of travelling here are good to tell for the rest of your life. Get ready to be humbled by a nation with a very large heart.

Party hard and party smart. It’s going to be something you won’t see anywhere else in the world.

There’s no doubt: Brazil is a special place. But you’re going to find that out for yourself. Come back and tell me your stories when you do.

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And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Sebastian Garcia Vivas

Share or save this post

Thank you so much for this easy and detailed guide. A complete resume!

Hey, Great post really informative! If I am planning a 6 month trip what would you say the best time of year to come is? I was thinking of arriving in November? Thanks Lia

November would be a great time to start your trip, its coming into the warmer months of the year then.

Have a great time.

I was enjoying reading the article, buuuut. When you say “Good lord, the people of Porto Alegre make the visit worth it. They are absolutely gorgeous.” it got me.

You just minimize the bautiful people of Brazil. People from Porto Alegre are white european blond, so yeah. It’s just a bad point, make me feel bad.

Hey there Sad Brazilian (if that is what you’d like to be called),

Wasn’t my intention at all to minimize the beauty of the Brazilian people! Sorry if you got that impression. If you had read a bit further down the article you might have noticed that I mention several times that Brazilians people as a whole are probably the most beautiful people in the world.

In regards to Porto Alegre, I just found that people were there were exceptionally beautiful. Also, whilst Porto Alegre does have more European immigrants, I think it is inappropriate to say that there are just blond people there- I met lots of gente morena while I was there and they were equally as beautiful.

Incredibly beautiful pictures! It’s really an absolute delight to watch clicks. I appreciated clearly written and thought-provoking article.

Seriously your post is perfect and complete! I thank you a lot for the effort made and all the details 🙂

Your post couldn’t be more complete! I loved the different itineraries that you made, including routes and places that are off the beaten track. I also agree with your tip to get around Brazil… buses are so easier to get and cheaper too, specially if you leave for the last moment to buy the ticket. Another thing is that with buses you can get to places that the planes don’t… I’d like to include another tip for website to buy bus tickets online: https://brazilbustravel.com/ I usually use this one and I find it very simple and useful 🙂

Brazil is so amazing destination to enjoy natural things and you shared a great guide to that beautiful destination. The packing list is good to enjoy the things of brazil.

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• Destinations
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• Rooms & Suites: 243
• Setting: Beach, City
• Trip Type: Adventure/Eco/Nature, Business Meeting, Family Vacation, Romantic Getaway, Shopping & Fashion, Spa & Wellness, Wedding

The glamorous Copacabana Palace is pre-eminent among the best hotels in Rio de Janiero.

Botanique Hotel & Spa - Campos do Jordao, Brazil

Nestled in a confluence of three rich river valleys, amid picturesque hillsides and stunning ridges in the heart of the Mantiqueira Mountains.

Belmond Hotel das Cataratas - Iguazu Falls, Brazil - 4 Star Luxury Hotel

• Rooms & Suites: 193
• Setting: Jungle, Waterfront
• Trip Type: Adventure/Eco/Nature, Business Meeting, Family Vacation, Romantic Getaway, Spa & Wellness, Wedding

Imagine a hotel surrounded by lush, tropical vegetation and a stunning view of Iguacu Falls.

Carmel Charme Resort - Aquiraz, Brazil - Boutique Hotel

• Rooms & Suites: 35

Casa Marques - Rio de Janeiro, Brazil - Boutique Hotel

• Rooms & Suites: 12
• Setting: City

Located on the hills of Santa Teresa, the bohemian neighbourhood of Rio, Casa Marques is the work of love of a young Franco-Brazilian couple.

Etnia Pousada & Boutique - Trancoso, Bahia, Brazil - Luxury Inn

• Rooms & Suites: 8
• Trip Type: Adventure/Eco/Nature, Culture, Romantic Getaway

Intimate and elegant, with just 8 bungalows, Etnia Pousada & Boutique stands out amid the wonders of Trancoso, receiving several international awards.

Hotel Essenza - Jericoacoara, Brazil - Boutique Resort

On the horizon, the warm, calm waters of Ceará and the endless dunes of white sand, awakens your senses with the beautiful sunsets and the energy of Jericoacoara; looking at the blue sky and watching the flight of kite-surfs.

Emiliano - Sao Paulo, Brazil - 5 Star Luxury Hotel

• Rooms & Suites: 57
• Trip Type: Business Meeting, Romantic Getaway, Shopping & Fashion, Wedding

Emiliano is uniquely situated in the most elegant residential area, only a few blocks from the fashionable shopping Avenues, the major financial and business centers of Latin America.

Fasano Sao Paulo, Brazil - Exclusive 5 Star Luxury Hotel

• Rooms & Suites: 60
• Trip Type: Business Meeting, Romantic Getaway, Shopping & Fashion, Spa & Wellness, Wedding

Fasano Sao Paulo is located midway between two main shopping avenues, and also offers a luxury spa.

Fazenda Sao Francisco do Corumbau - Bahia, Brazil - Exclusive Hideaway Resort

• Rooms & Suites: 10
• Setting: Beach, Remote
• Trip Type: Adventure/Eco/Nature, Romantic Getaway, Scuba Diving

A 15 km beach of white sand and crystal-clear water where coconut trees line the seashore.

Fasano Boa Vista, Brazil Exclusive Luxury Golf Resort

• Rooms & Suites: 39
• Setting: Countryside, Golf Course
• Trip Type: Family Vacation, Golf Getaway, Romantic Getaway, Spa & Wellness

Enjoy the tranquility of Sao Paulo's verdant countryside with all the comforts of a Fasano hotel at Fasano Boa Vista.

Fasano Rio de Janeiro, Brazil - Exclusive 5 Star Luxury Hotel

• Rooms & Suites: 91
• Trip Type: Business Meeting, Romantic Getaway

The best hotel on Ipanema Beach, Fasano offers chic sophistication with world-class comforts in Rio de Janeiro.

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Find cheap flights to Brazil from $204

This is the cheapest one-way flight price found by a kayak user in the last 72 hours by searching for a flight from the united states to brazil departing on 4/15. fares are subject to change and may not be available on all flights or dates of travel. click the price to replicate the search for this deal., search hundreds of travel sites at once for deals on flights to brazil.

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Best Brazil Flight Deals

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Good to know

Faqs - booking brazil flights, what other cities are accessible to travelers arriving at gru airport from the united states.

Direct flights from the US can get you to Brazil swiftly, where you can explore a few other locations near GRU Airport. Guarulhos, Itaquaquecetuba, Sao Paulo, and Suzano are nearby cities that may be reached from GRU Airport by cab as well as bus. The distance between the cores of each of the abovementioned cities and GRU is under 11 miles.

In case I want to stay closer to athletic events in Italy, which airport should I fly into?

Sports lovers from the US should consider using Rio de Janeiro/Galeo International Airport (GIG) as a point of arrival when traveling to Brazil for vacation. Stadiums like Maracan, Estádio Nilton Santos, and Sã o Januário Stadium are just a few examples of those that host both national and international athletic events in Rio de Janeiro, more so on weekends.

Are there any facilities for pets on the trip from USO to BR0?

Yes. When visiting Brazil, passengers flying on the USO-BR0 route don't need to worry about the safety of their dogs. Most US airports that conduct international flights to Brazil, including MIA, LAX, and JFK, allow travelers to bring their four-legged companions along.

Which airport sees the highest volume of travelers heading from the Northwestern United States to Brazil?

Most passengers flying from the USA's North West regions to Brazil prefer to depart from Seattle Tacoma International Airport (SEA). Sadly, there are no nonstop flights between SEA and BR0. The sole option available to travelers is connecting flights.

Are there nonstop flights to Brazil?

There are flights to Brazil from several cities in the US, including Fort Lauderdale, Boston, Miami, New York, Orlando and more. There are nonstop routes from the US to a handful of international airline hubs in Brazil, including São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Brasilia, Belem, Belo Horizonte, Fortaleza and Manaus.

Do I need a visa to enter Brazil?

A Brazilian Visitor’s Visa and a valid passport are required for US nationals to travel to Brazil. The Brazilian Visitor’s Visa can be applied for online or at your local Brazilian consulate.

Where should I fly into to visit Copacabana?

Copacabana is one of Brazil’s most popular areas for international tourists. Because Copacabana itself is one of the neighborhoods that make up the city of Rio de Janeiro, flying into the Galeão International Airport in Rio de Janeiro, which is one of the busiest airports in the country, is the most convenient option.

I want to visit the Iguaçu Falls in Brazil, where should I fly into?

Iguazu Falls is one of Brazil’s natural wonders that draws tourists from all over. If you want to reach the falls, you should fly to Foz do Iguacu International Airport (IGU). Departing from cities like Los Angeles, New York or Atlanta, you can do this route with one layover, making the stop in cities like Sao Paulo or Lima.

How long is the flight to Brazil?

An average nonstop flight from the United States to Brazil takes 12h 19m, covering a distance of 4843 miles. The most popular route is New York - Sao Paulo with an average flight time of 9h 35m.

What is the cheapest flight to Brazil?

The cheapest ticket to Brazil from the United States found in the last 72 hours was $221 one-way, and $461 round-trip. The most popular route is New York John F Kennedy Intl to Sao Paulo Guarulhos Intl and the cheapest round-trip airline ticket found on this route in the last 72 hours was $602.

Which airlines fly to Brazil?

LATAM Airlines, Delta & American Airlines fly the most frequently from the United States to Brazil. The most popular route is from New York to Sao Paulo, and Delta, Japan Airlines and LATAM Airlines fly this route the most.

What are the most popular destinations in Brazil?

The next most popular destinations are Rio de Janeiro (33%) and Brasilia (3%). Searches for flights to Salvador (2%), to Recife (2%) and to Fortaleza (1%) are also popular.

How does KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool help me choose the right time to buy?

KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool uses historical data to determine whether the price for a given destination and date is likely to change within 7 days, so travelers know whether to wait or book now.

Top tips for finding cheap flights to Brazil

• Enter your preferred departure airport and travel dates into the search form above to unlock the latest Brazil flight deals.
• People with limited mobility traveling from the US to Brazil via air should think about landing at Brasilia International Airport (BSB) from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). At Los Angeles International Airport, travelers with special needs and mobility concerns can request assistance, including wheelchairs, baggage aid, and medical and safety equipment.
• Airport lounges are believed to be the ideal places to unwind whilst one waits for their flights to various regions. If you intend to unwind at a reasonable lounge before boarding a flight to Brazil from the US, most low-cost travelers opt to depart from Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC). Travelers on a budget can unwind before takeoff in the SLC's Delta Sky Club.
• For US parents who wish to take their children on vacation to Brazil, flying on American Airlines or Delta Airlines from John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW), Miami International Airport (MIA) to Sao Paulo Guarulhos international airport (GRU) might be the best alternative. Year-round direct flights from the USA to Brazil are offered at these airports. The likelihood that your children will be fatigued before they arrive in Brazil is reduced by the ability to travel from the US to Brazil within the shortest amount of time thanks to direct flights.
• If you're traveling the MIA-GRU flight route and your flight from the US is scheduled to touch down in Brazil at night, you might want to consider making hotel reservations near the GRU Airport. The TRYP by Wyndham São Paulo Guarulhos Airport, located just a few minutes' walk from the airport, is a good option.
• John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) is the widely preferred departure airport for the vast majority of travelers coming from America to Brazil. The high preference for this airport is because it is a hub for numerous well-established carriers offering international flights from the USA. Travelers are likely to enjoy flight deals when flying from this airport to Brazil due to competitive pricing.
• When booking your flight to Brazil, you’ll have several options for cities to fly into. São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro host the most international air traffic in the country, and it’s likely that your flight will go through one of these cities even if it isn’t your final destination.
• Since Brazil takes up nearly all of eastern South America, there are several border countries you can fly into to extend your travels and get the most out of your time on the continent. Flying into Montevideo, Bogota and Lima all give you great access to Brazil’s western border, as well as being popular destinations on their own. All of these cities and their respective countries can be entered visa-free with a valid passport for US citizens.
• Looking for some beaches? Plan a trip to Pernambuco, which has some of the most famous beaches in Brazil. To reach Pernambuco, you should fly to Recife International Airport (REC). You will most likely have one layover, normally in Sao Paulo or Fortaleza.
• Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted in Brazil, but it can be a good idea to carry some denomination of the local currency (Brazilian Reals) for restaurants and other places that don’t accept cards. ATMs are widely available in international airports like São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, as well as many of the smaller airports.
• For travelers heading to the Amazon Rainforest, there are a few different access points available. One of the most convenient ways of getting to Amazonas is by flying into Manaus, which houses an international airport that operates flights to and from the United States. Manaus is in the middle of the region, so there are reserves and rainforests to explore in every direction.

Top 5 airlines flying to Brazil

Carly the flight attendant was extremely helpful and very accommodating to passengers on the flight from what I noticed. Couldn't be more satisfied with the service and assistance from Delta's flight attendant, Thanks again Carly!!

I didn’t not like that I could not select my seat and ended up with the worse seat.

I didn’t like that I could not select my seat and was assigned a seat when I checked in at LAX

Delta did an awful job w logistics at DTW. Missed connection. We were there an hour early. SUCKED

Inflight entertainment stopped working as we taxi to runway and never worked again until landing and taxi to gate. Grrrr

Had to run to make it only to have the flight delayed to wait for all the late connectors Second drink service skipped up

Boarding was a sh!t show. JFK BOARDING was awful. The agent called three sections at a time Clogging the area then yelling at people to not block the walk way. How are you going to call delta one , premium select and comfort plus at once and the yell at highest paying passengers. Need to do a lot better and the flight attendants in the galley need to understand that their voices travel. They were talking about others and everyone in the cabin heard them

Uncomfortable seats on 14 hour flight. Mediocre food. On time and great crew.

Please see my lengthy description on MSP to Atlanta survey. Tailbone is killing me from old hard seats. Seat would not recline and were not near exit row. Entertainment did not work properly and couldn’t use. No audio and touch screen failed. 3 plus hours of discomfort in narrower seats than previous flight not in comfort plus. Very dissatisfied and deserve comfort plus charges refunds, at the very least, for both my wife and I. The plane needs to be retired. Please feel free to contact me directly for further details.

MSP to Atlanta was much better than Atlanta to St. Kitts. Paid $180 each for myself and wife for Delta comfort from Atlanta to St. Kitts. Seats were more narrow and obviously old and worn out. Tailbone is killing me. Seat would not recline. Seats behind reclined and we were not an exit row or in front of an exit row. Entertainment did not work in that the movie jumped forward and back and there was no audio. The plug in the arm rest was loose. Flight attendant tried “resetting” the video for my seat but no good. She never checked back. Someone else near me had the same issue. Touch screen was unresponsive. No where near as comfortable as MSP to Atlanta flight. 3 plus hrs. flight time without the basic amenities and not even remotely close to comfortable but paid for Comfort plus. I will be very disappointed if I have the same on my return “Comfort Plus” flight St. Kitts to Atlanta. At the very least my wife and I should be refunded for round trip “Comfort Plus” charges. Please feel free to contact me directly for more details.

Copa performed as expected for the amount of money I was willing to spend for the flight; it wasn’t exceptional but it was not bad in any way either. The crew was good; friendly and straightforward. The food was airplane food, so no expectations there and the entertainment was lacking but that was my fault for owning an IPhone with a charging port that’s not compatible with the rest of the world. I’d fly Copa again.

Left my bags in origin city on a business class ticket , spent about 2-3 days in the same clothes plus the flight .

the planes are not modern there are no phone chargers

As usual, the flight with normal legroom was not very comfortable, but the second flight was much better because we had paid for extra legroom. It was very nice to check our bags without an extra fee.

LOCKED MY BAG WITHOUT CONSENT. Had to have my zippers cut upon arrival in Costa Rica.

Everything was as you would expect in coach - fine. Flight was close to on time.

No air in the middle rows. Had a hard time breathing. Was dying of heat.

Horrific checkin procedure with neither Delta nor Latam figuring out how to check me in. 4 hrs on customer support with both and both airlines pointing to each other who should do checking. I was not checked in until morning of flight, which for international flight is concerning.

It was a good experience, the flight was a little too long & the food was ok

the flight from Boston to Curitiba was on time actually 30 minutes earlier. latam was not able to unload the luggage for custom checkup in Sao Paulo ii took two and half hours . i missed the flight to Curitiba spend the night in hotel and then flying in the morning to Curitiba

Tough flight with turbulence… I was told by a fellow passenger that it is common. Nonetheless, very stressful. Cordial staff.

Very unprofessional staff in the checking and boarding. There was no space for my carry-on bag, which is understandable for a full flight. However, the rudeness in answering my questions about my bag were unnecessary. Shaming and threatening a passenger to be left behind was something I had never experienced (I am 57 years old and a Skymiles member) before. At a minimum, the boarding staff (Krystal Mejia and her manager Dee) should undergo further training on cultural sensitivity and professional skills on speaking with passengers. Krystal, just because I have dark hair and “look Latina” does not mean I can speak Spanish. Your assumption and threatening words until the very ending of my boarding (door of the airplane) were not only unnecessary and stressful but something that a passenger should not experience before boarding.

The flight was overbooked and the solution gave was unrespctful. I arrived 4 hour in advance in the airport and only after 2hous was possible suggest a different ticket with another company LATAM, I have accepted, but when I was checking in at LATAM the tickets was issued without luggage, what it is absurd since I have bought my tickets including it since the beginning. Due to the timing for the next flight was not possible return to Avianca to claim due to the distance between Both companies Avianca and Latam since were located in different terminals. I have insiste to the crew of Latam to call Avianca to solve it, but they could help they were alleging that only paying a thousand pesos Mexicans ($1,000 MXN) to dispatch my luggage would be accepted and I have no money at all. So I had to beg for others passagens, it was an humiliating to exchange luggage with who was platinum in order to return back the luggage in the connection airport in Brazil (GRU). I have no clue that a judicial process would be taken from my side due the lots of stress in sequence by the non professional treatment with a passenger that was just following everything said by Avianca.. Long hours of waiting until next flight and only arrive at final destine in 6hs later..

The flight from PDX to New York was cancelled, and I got rebooked one day later. Because of this I missed a meeting at my final destination, EZE. I now need to stay longer in Argentina, and was told the tariff difference was $780 plus $150 penalty! I am not using my return ticket, and have purchased a one way ticket EZE-PDX for $606 with another airline. SHAMEFUL

The flight was canceled. Got rebooked to Chicago and when we arrived our luggage where to there. They were going to our original destination the day after. They would not deliver them to our house. We had to go pick them up.

Too many fees (but that seems to apply to all airlines nowadays)

Packed in like sardines, very uncomfortable. Sitting the aisle my shoulder was rammed into numerous times by rushing flight attendants. Also flight was very cold.

Your app is impossible to use. I couldn't load it. Then i couldn't open it. When i finally got both those things done -with much help -then i couldn't open the app to install a credit card. The upshot was 4 flights without access to food or drink. When i first tried to download united app some company called starlier opened instead and i would up signing up for some 49 dollar a month music service which i still have not been able to cancel.

Delayed a day due to snow storm. Was upgraded. That kind of made up for significant delays from FLL to COS with no compensation or acknowledgement.

It was delayed several hours which delayed our connection in Denver. Not happy.

Ok, but comfort was lacking as the seats were way to small

The Polaris experience is top notch. From departure lounge to arrival lounge. Everything was top notch. One of the best first class experience

The plane was delayed 2 hours. The wifi did not work. The seat in first class was not comfortable because the bottom felt like it lost all of its padding. And I did not like when the flight attendant made me wait at my seat to use the bathroom and didn't tell me why. If there were too many people using the 1st Class bathroom, she should have told me to go in the back, coach bathrooms. I guess I have to feel fortunate that they found 2 local pilots to still fly the plane tonight after the original pilots ended up at an airport 60 miles away due to high winds.

EWR terminal C United Club is great. Flight and everything else mediocre

Re-checking our bags, the workers were not able to help us with boarding passes for the flight, told us to wait, then ignored us while they helped many other passengers. Until I got rude, they would have left us standing there, and even then they were very curt and dismissive in telling us where to get boarding passes printed. We made it to the gate just as they were starting to board passengers. It was just rude customer service.

Delayed abs delayed Gate crew giving poor info - we are definitely leaving at —- Ultimately to cancel flight after 4+ hours of delays Just cancel it earlier

The flight was excellent, provided that we had inclement weather. We departed earlier than scheduled and arrived early. There was a little turbulence, but nothing to be worried about.

Our flight was great we left Kona earlier and got into LAX almost an 1hour earlier as well. LAX AA is in repair so to get out and found our bus to get pick up was a bit confusing.

Delayed flight, few announcements with information, no comps, cluster f boarding because zones weren’t spread out and announced loud and repeatedly, staff did their job -nothing more nothing less, annoying kids were speaking and kicking the heck out of the back of my seat and parents weren’t willing to parent… so another typical day of air travel in the US.,

It was less than what is expected for a business class ticket I thought that the staff actively ignored me because I either looked Indian or Hispanic to them and I guess I did not deserve their attention. The food which included a beef entree was not available so not enough food was ordered for number of seats available. I will say experience in Greenwich lounge was very good and the staff there at the airport were very nice. May be your crew needs to learn about racial equity so that everyone gets either the same aweful treatment or hopefully the best treatment which is what we expect I recommend you take a flight with Singapore airlines that I have taken and the crew remember your last names and use it to address each person, food never finishes if you are at the back of business class and crew anticipate your need even before you articulate. Same price and 100 times better service than American Airlines

I don’t think the flight attendants are happy. They do not seem to be friendly or welcoming.

Flight was delayed until Next day as crew timed out

We are gluten free, there were not any available complimentary gluten free options.

The flight was great until towards the end when the flight attendant read an excessively long commercial for purchasing an american airlines credit card. The worst part is that we are doing a lot of traveling this year so i was actually interested in getting the credit card, but I was so annoyed with the long commercial that I completely dismissed the flight attendant bringing around the information. Next time, keep the sales pitch to 10 seconds and then pass around the brochures!!

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The ultimate Worldpackers Brazil travel guide

If Brazil is on your bucket list, look no further than this comprehensive budget travel guide to Brazil with tips on what to do, how to get around, safety, ways to save money, and more.

Juliana Juliana Arthuso

Nov 25, 2023

Brazil is the largest country in South America and the fifth-largest in the world . 

Therefore, creating a   best Brazil travel guide is not the easiest of tasks!  When you think of all the places to visit in a country that is as big as the entire continent of Europe, you realize you probably won't be able to cover it all in one trip... let alone one travel guide. If you're  traveling to Brazil or planning a trip to Brazil , I recommend you embrace the "no need to do it all at once" approach, learn from the Brazilians and relaxa !

Be it one trip or several, Brazil should be on every traveler's bucket list . In the land of Carnival  you can find everything from little historical towns to towering skyscrapers in the largest cities of South America. Brazil's natural landscapes are must-sees, ranging from legendary paradise beaches over the coast, to tropical forests and the inland region of world's most biologically rich savanna, the Brazilian Cerrado .

Before I introduce you to the  best places to visit in Brazil , it's worth going over Brazil's location and history, language, visa requirements, currency and other practical tips for a backpacker trip to Brazil.

Where is Brazil located?

Brazil is a great destination to start a South America backpacking trip , because there are many cheap flights from Europe and United States to São Paulo, Salvador, Rio de Janeiro and Fortaleza airports.  In addition, Brazil shares borders with ten countries! The list of its neighbors includes almost every country in South America, with the exceptions of Chile and Ecuador.

For instance, if your flight lands in São Paulo, you can take a bus, BlaBlaCar or hitchhike south and get to Foz do Iguaçu, Porto Alegre or Curitiba. From those cities you can easily cross to Uruguay, Paraguay or Argentina by land or boat. The distances between the capitals are equivalent to a night sleeping in a bus, or a long car ride. It's not difficult to find students and families making these routes and offering lifts.

On the other hand, if you land in Salvador, you'll be only a few hours away from the best beach destinations in Brazil : the northeast. You can go to places like Jericoacoara, Recife, Olinda, Aracaju, Fernando de Noronha, and Fortaleza.

Brazil is officially divided into five regions : North, Northeast, Center-West, Southeast and South. It's important to familiarize itself with each region before traveling to Brazil, because if you plan a trip  that has the Iguaçu Falls and the Amazon rainforest in the same week, it's going to be extremely tiring, or worse, expensive! I'll talk later about how to find cheap domestic flights in Brazil , so   k eep reading.

Some of the history of Brazil

The first Portuguese colonial expedition arrived in Brazil in the year 1500. Before this, Brazil was inhabited by native Indians with many different cultures and languages. Later on, Africans were taken to the country farms, when Brazil became one of the biggest slavery-based colonies in the world. Today, Brazilians with African ancestry represent 54% of the country's population, while Brazilians with indigenous ancestry account for 0.4%.

After the abolition of slavery, European immigrants came to work in coffee farms widespread throughout Brazil. The mass European immigration changed the population, and this is still apparent today, as Brazilian society is a mix of diverse ethnic communities and a confluence   of people of several different origins .   Did you know that Brazil has the biggest Japanese population outside of Japan? How cool is that?

In 1882, Brazil became independent from Portugal, which marked the beginning of the Republican period during which voting was a privilege for just the highest classes.  Afterwards, the country was governed by a military dictatorship which lasted from 1964 to 1985.

In 1988, a new Constitution was passed and Brazil officially became a democracy . Since then, the military has remained under the control of civilian politicians, with no official role in domestic politics. The current Constitution was drafted as a reaction to the period of military dictatorship, seeking to guarantee individual rights and restrict the state's ability to limit freedom.

What is the official language spoken in Brazil?

Brazilians speak Portuguese, not Spanish! 

I recommend you try to learn a few words before your trip, since less than 10% of the population speaks English. However, even if you don't speak the language, locals in the major touristic cities are accustomed to tourists, and can usually speak and understand basic Spanish or English. A lot of young Brazilians also speak excellent English, especially in the big cities. 

Ultimately, the number of people who speak English around you will depend on the city you go and the social context you're in, so learning a few Portuguese words definitely couldn't hurt !

To be more specific, in big cities such as São Paulo, Curitiba, Rio de Janeiro, and Brasília, it's quite easy to find English speakers. After the World Cup and the Olympics, many places now have signs and services in English, too. On the other hand, when you go to the countryside and visit smaller cities and towns, it can be a bit more difficult to find English speakers, and you're going to have to rely on luck.

If you're  traveling to Brazil and don't know Portuguese , make sure you always have internet (get a pre-paid SIM card) and a positive attitude, and try to communicate using translation apps. Brazilians in general are more than willing to help a lost foreigner. Most Brazilians love to interact with outsiders, but don't be offended if they don't. It's not because they are xenophobic, but likely because they don't feel comfortable or confident speaking English.

Climate and packing list for Brazil

Winter in Brazil is between June and August with temperatures reaching lows of 5-8°C in the coldest regions and 15-20°C in the warmest regions. The southern region, formed by the states of Paraná, Santa Catarina and Rio Grande do Sul, is especially cold. Many Brazilians go to these states to visit cities with a European vibe, such as Curitiba, Joinville, Gramado or Blumenau.

Summer in Brazil lasts from December to February. In the coastal and northern regions, rain showers are common compliments of the country's tropical climate. On the other hand, in the Center-West, it can get really dry, especially in states like Goias and Tocantins, in the Cerrado biome. The Amazon Basin is the wettest area in the country and has consistently hot temperatures averaging around 27°C. Combined with high humidity, the Amazon Basin's climate can be difficult to handle if you are not used to it.

A  packing list for Brazil  should definitely include clothes made from breathable fabric like cotton. Polyester, nylon and the like are not a good idea for hot, humid weather. Flip flops are also essential, but remember to buy your havaianas once you get to Brazil (they're way cheaper there). Another thing you should remember is to bring a hat! The sun is stronger near the Equator and you don't want to get sunburned in Brazil.

Also, make sure to bring an extra layer for indoors and bus rides. Yes, you read that right — indoors! If you go to the mall, restaurants in city centers or cafés, you'll notice the air conditioning is turned up very high. Also, if you travel by bus, especially overnight, carry a small cardigan or sweatshirt for the same reason.

Finally, bring an adapter for Brazilians sockets (type N), or just carry a universal adapter to have no surprises.  The electrical current in Brazil varies from region to region so it's a good idea to check out your destination(s) beforehand to bring the appropriate adapter(s). For example, in Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, the current is 110V or 120V, 60Hz AC while in Salvador it is 127V and in  Brasília  it is 220V. If all your electronic devices are dual voltage, this won't be a problem.

If you're an experienced backpacke r, you may find the next packing tips obvious, but it's always good to remember this list of things to take to Brazil :

• Money belt : Brazil is not the safest country in South America, but also not the most dangerous. To feel secure, it's best to keep your passport, cards and cash hidden and out of sight!
• Water bottle : Help the environment by bringing your own bottle, so you can refill instead of buying a new bottle each time you feel thirsty. 
• Travel towel : You never know when you'll end up at the beach in Brazil. Keep a travel towel handy —  it dries fast and doesn’t take too much space in your backpack.

For more packing tips for Brazil , check out this Brazil packing list for backpackers .

Visa requirements for Brazil

The majority of European nationals need two things to enter Brazil : a valid passport and a return ticket, or a valid passport and proof of the means to pay for a ticket. You will need to fill in an entry card on arrival which will allow you to stay up to 90 days.

The immigration officials will keep one part of this card and attach the other to your passport. Make sure you don't lose this part as you'll need to show it on departure!

U.S., Australian, Canadian, and Japanese citizens can visit Brazil for up to 90 days without a visa . Other countries may require a visa, which can be acquired from the Brazilian Embassy in their home countries. 

Citizens of the following countries do not need a visa to visit Brazil as a tourist: Argentina, Austria, Belgium, Bolivia, Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Croatia, Denmark, Ecuador, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Honduras, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Luxembourg, Monaco, Morocco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Malta, Paraguay, Peru, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, San Marino, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Suriname, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, Trinidad and Tobago, Tunisia, Turkey, United Kingdom, and Uruguay.

Residents of all countries should always contact their local Brazilian Embassy or nearest consulate for specific visa procedures and travel information . A passport that is valid for six months past the date of first entry is also a requirement.

Tourist information in Brazil

You should not depend too much on tourist information offices when traveling to Brazil . The main office is in the country's capital Brasília, and there's also another branch in Rio de Janeiro. In São Paulo and all the other 24 states, tourist offices are sponsored by state or municipal government, and often have pretty limited information or don't even exist.

The easiest way to find information about Brazil is through social media. Most capitals have accounts on Instagram just to help visitors, and travel blogging/Instagramming is very popular among Brazilians. A lot of people post in English!

It's a good idea to do plenty of research before you  travel to Brazil . Read Brazil travel blogs , get a Brazil guidebook , and compare different Brazil travel websites ' top picks for Brazil trip ideas . Don't forget to save this Brazil travel guide  to your phone before you go!

Currency exchange in Brazil

When exchanging currency in Brazil , you'll usually find the best exchange rates in a " casa de câmbio ." The only problem is that outside of big cities, you won't find that many of them. Assuming you're probably going to land in a hub airport like São Paulo or Rio, it's a good idea to exchange money right after arrival. Once you travel outside of Brazil's larger cities, it can be difficult to exchange money at all, or you might find terrible rates.

Another option for exchanging currency (in larger cities) is to find major banks like Banco do Brasil, Itau or Santander. It's also worth noting that carrying US dollars might make exchanging easier, as more places accept US currency.

All major credit cards are accepted, even in small cities. But in the more rural areas, paying with a card can be quite limited. You can use your credit card to withdraw cash in most banks in the bigger towns and cities. In smaller towns, Banco do Brasil will provide this service.

If you're wondering if Brazil is for safe tourists , you're not alone. The short answer to the question " Is Brazil safe? " is that it all depends on where you go. Much like other large countries, Brazil offers differing levels of safety, which can vary from region to state to city and even neighborhood to neighborhood in big cities.

One could say that Brazil is as safe as most of its neighboring countries . So, if you're a traveler with a lot of experience in Latin America, you'll do perfectly fine in Brazil. The same precautions that apply to countries like Peru, Bolivia, Colombia, Argentina and Paraguay would also apply during a trip to Brazil .

However, Brazil receives plenty of bad press about violence and crime rates, which makes you wonder how safe Brazil really is for tourists . And not without reason. 

Rio de Janeiro is an example of a relatively unsafe destination in Brazil. If you watch or read news about Rio, you may get really scared as the city has cases of violence, robberies and other problems that originate from high social inequality rates and other social issues. 

Surprisingly, Rio is full of tourists year-round! The key to staying safe on a trip to Rio — or any city in Brazil for that matter — is to learn about the safest parts of the city you're visiting. 

Chat with locals, fellow travelers, or your Worldpackers host in Brazil and ask people about places they'd avoid walking alone at night, and places they feel safe and go often. Read blogs, guides and articles about the locations you decide to visit. Try to get as much information as you can before your trip, as well as when you get there.

It may sound obvious to some experienced travelers, but it's also worth mentioning: use common sense! If you want to know more about  how to travel safe in Brazil , use the following list of precautions to guide you (also applicable in any country in South America).

1. Don't carry all your cash and documents with you!

If you want to avoid fees and withdraw all your cash at once, I get you. Do that (preferably along with one or more friends) and then go back to your hostel and hide parts of your money in different places. 25% of your money can go to the bottom of your backpack which stays in the hostel locker. 50% of your cash can go to the hostel's safe, if they have one.

When you go out, carry only the minimum cash needed . By traveling that way you can also plan your day a little more, because you have to estimate how much money you need to carry. This is also a clever way to save money while traveling .

Also, remember to keep your passport, flight tickets and other important papers in the hostel at all times. Carry a copy of your ID or passport if you want to be extra careful. Pickpocketing and armed robbery can happen, especially in some areas of big cities like Brasília, Recife, Rio de Janeiro and Fortaleza.

2. Lock up your valuables

Don't leave anything valuable lying around in your hostel. Look for hostels which offer lockers, or at least a locked room where you can safely store your bags.

3. Dress down

Avoid jewelry and don't walk around flashing an iPhone, iPads, expensive smartphones, cameras and other expensive electronics. Be alert and walk like you know where you're going! Never hold a map (or your phone) up in a busy street because that will make you look disoriented, and turn you into an easy target.

4. Use ATMs inside buildings

When it comes to Brazil travel tips for safety , this is a big one. In addition to using ATMS inside buildings, avoid being the only one at the bank and try not to withdraw cash at night. It's always safer to use ATMs during normal working hours because there's always guards at the bank agencies from 10 am to 4 pm.

5. Be aware of tourist scams in Brazil

Have you ever read Paris travel guides that say you must get away from people trying to fool you right under the Eiffel Tower? They say someone tries to make you sign a petition to help a charity to distract you, while others take your backpack. If you can get scammed in the most romantic city in the world, you can get scammed in Brazil too.

In Brazil, people try to fool you in many different ways. In beach cities, you'll see people selling tours illegally, right next to agencies with a decade of tradition in the local community. They look exactly the same.

How can you spot which one is which? The agency will always have clear information about price, itinerary, and safety procedures written on a flyer, board, booklet, guide, or something similar. Also, trustworthy service providers will always negotiate prices in advance.

If someone offers you a tour and tells you to "pay later", or "pay after", don't take it. If the person speaks English or you speak Portuguese, awesome! You can ask them as many questions as you want and establish a time to pay pay. But if you don't, the person can try to fool you by charging a different amount in the end or they can try to say you fooled them, etc... and you might be stuck in a situation you're not expecting. In short, always make sure you get all the information you need before starting an activity.

Distraction is another common tactic used by street thieves. Sometimes, it's something as simple as someone asking you for a cigarette, the time, a coin or a lighter. As soon as you slow down and open your bag, you're off guard and someone grabs your phone and makes a run for it.

6. Only bring essentials to the beach

If you go to the beach, don't leave your stuff lying around on the sand while you go for a swim. Only bring essentials. Leave home wearing your bathing suit and take a towel, a small amount of cash and maybe your phone, and nothing else.

7. Avoid being out after dark

Avoid walking on empty streets, in deserted parks or on urban beaches like in Rio, Maceió, Recife, Salvador or Fortaleza.

8. Keep an eye on your drink if you go to parties

If you feel dizzy, fatigued or "weird" after drinking something, your drink may have been spiked. If you think so, call the hostel you're in and/or try to get to a safe place immediately. Never leave your drink unattended and don't take drinks from strangers.

9. Avoid business with random people

As a general rule for super safe travel , never book a tour, a service or even accept help from people who approach you unsolicitedly at the airport, on the street or next to famous tourist spots. Choose a Worldpackers hostel in Brazil and ask your host about safe tours and things to do in Brazil . Another nice way to get safe tours in Brazil is to book on websites ahead of time, for example Airbnb experiences.

10. Get informed, the internet is your friend 

In Brazil, you must be extra cautious in big capitals like São Paulo, Rio, Belo Horizonte, Salvador, Manaus, and Porto Alegre. But there are very safe cities in Brazil too. The safest city in Brazil is Brusque, in Santa Catarina, famous for its German heritage. Campina Grande (Paraíba) was ranked as the most dangerous city in Brazil in 2017.

The best thing you can do to travel safely in Brazil is to read guides and use social networks to your advantage. People who have traveled to places where you haven't yet can give you updates in real time, or offer you an overview on where to keep your eyes open and be extra careful.

Talk directly to a Worldpackers expert or bloggers to get more questions answered about safe travel in Brazil .

Getting to Brazil

The major airlines serving Brazil include: Aerolineas Argentinas, Air France, AeroPeru, Alitalia, American Airlines, British Airways, Continental Airlines, South African Airlines, Swissair, TAP Air Portugal, Iberia, Japan Airlines, Korean Airlines, Pluna, KLM, LAN-Chile, United Airlines, and Lufthansa. The local airline Azul also provides flights between São Paulo and some European cities like Lisbon, Paris, Porto, London and Rome.

As you can imagine, prices can vary, but you can expect to pay between USD $700-$900 for a round-trip flight from Europe. During a promotion, the same flight might be found for less than $500.  If you're flying from the United States, you can usually find good deals on flights from Miami to Manaus, and Los Angeles to Goiania. 

Depending on where you live, you can have a greater or lesser opportunity to book cheap airfares, but there are some common techniques that everyone can use to  find cheap airfare anytime of the year .

It's worth noting that Brazil shares land borders with Argentina, Bolivia, Colombia, French Guiana, Guyana, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay, Venezuela and Suriname . If you have time for a longer trip, why not explore more of South America and then enter Brazil by land? If you're looking for an adventure, you might even consider entering Brazil  by river on the Amazon route from Peru.

Getting around in Brazil

The favored option for travel within Brazil is by bus. Air travel in Brazil has gotten considerably cheaper in the last decade, but it's still not as cheap as flying low-cost in Europe. However, it's always a good idea to check promotions for air travel in Brazil , because sometimes flying can be as cheap as taking the bus!

The use of car sharing apps has grown a lot in the last years in Brazil, and it's getting safer and easier to travel this way. There are a few car sharing apps you can use in Brazil, such as Waze Carpool, BlaBlaCar — which has a ladies only option called " só para elas ", and FemiTaxi — a ladies only only taxi company. Safety is a major issue for women everywhere in the world, so it's nice to know that as a woman traveling in Brazil, you have extra options for staying safe!

How to find cheap domestic flights in Brazil

The four main national airfare carriers are LATAM, Gol and Azul. All of Brazil's major cities are served by at least one of these airlines. You can use apps like Kayak , Skyscanner or Voopter to keep an eye on prices.

I don't recommend flying with Avianca Brazil since they have filed for bankruptcy, and although a lot of flights have been canceled, they still show on some search websites. 

Getting around Brazil by bus

As previously mentioned, bus service is the most common option for budget travel in Brazil . In general, buses are punctual, clean and comfortable. Sometimes you'll encounter problems with delays and cleanliness when traveling around the North region, especially in the Amazon Basin. It's a good opportunity to take a boat instead and have an adventure!

All major cities and towns in Brazil are connected by bus . When buying your ticket, you'll notice there are several types of long distance busses — comum , executivo , semi-leito and leito . It's best to go for  executivo or  semi-leito ; they're not the cheapest, nor the most expensive, but are comfortable enough that you won't end up with a stiff neck or back pain!

The difference between semi-leito and leito is that in leito you can lie down like in a sleeper train. Leito is usually the most expensive class of bus in Brazil, so sometimes, water, soda/juice and snacks are included. The most popular sites to look for bus timelines and available seats are  ClickBus  and  BuscaOnibus . 

If you do intend to travel by bus in Brazil , you should buy your ticket at least a day in advance, especially if you plan to travel during weekends or festivals. This way you have a higher chance of getting a bus that is comfortable enough for a few hours or a night, without paying a high price. Also, note that while most inter-city buses are air-conditioned, in small towns in the countryside, you'll just have to accept that it's hot!

There's also a train service in Brazil , but it's extremely limited and the trains are slow (40km/h). Most train services in Brazil are historical railways that have been restored for touristic purposes. People also take the train in São Paulo city, but it's not a common thing in other Brazilian capitals, and there's just a few intercity trains. In conclusion, getting around Brazil only by train is not possible.

What to eat in Brazil?

Due to its cultural diversity, Brazil has incredibly unique cuisine . In fact, one of the best things to do in Brazil is to go out and try local food.

I've picked the best dishes from each different region in Brazil , so you can get a quick insight into some of the native specialties.

The North region of Brazil is home to the Amazon Rainforest. The cuisine is strongly influenced by the local indigenous culture, which makes it especially unique. Traditionally, the indigenous eat fish, root vegetables, yams and tropical fruits. One popular dish is açaí com peixe (açai berry with grilled fish and roasted cassava or corn flour mixture).

The Northeast region of Brazil includes the State of Bahia, considered the heart of black Brazil. Bahia's predominately African background is abundantly apparent in its traditions, music, and food. In Bahia you'll find a thriving culinary scene typified by local produce, traditional recipes, and seafood-based fare. Specialties include acarajé , vatapá , bobó , and acaçá . Bahia is the perfect place in Brazil for a local food journey!


The Northeast region also includes Maranhão, Piauí, Ceará, Rio Grande do Norte, Pernambuco, Paraíba, Sergipe, and Alagoas. These states are very different from each other. Some have a strong Dutch influence from colonization, while others have a more Portuguese influence. In the coastal areas you'll get high quality and diverse options of seafood dishes. One example is moqueca , which consists of fish, onion, tomato, pepper, cilantro and dendê oil all cooked together in one pot.

Center-West

The Center-West region of Brazil consists of a mix of the original Indigenous population and people from the Southeast and South regions who migrated Center-West in the '80s and '90s, when Brazil had a boom in agri-business development. In the Center-West you can expect to find dishes with fish, beef, chicken and pork from the huge ranches which dominate the region. So if you love meat, Center-West your place!

In the same region you'll also find beiju , tapioca , and other typical Indigenous foods made from cassava and cassava starch. Make sure to taste the local peppers by trying jiquitaia sauce, and eat the Center-West's version of feijoada .

The Southeast region of Brazil includes Rio de Janeiro, Minas Gerais, Espírito Santo and São Paulo, so you can expect several distinctive styles of cooking! One of the most popular dishes is arroz com feijão (rice and beans). Dive deep into the local cheese culture in Minas Gerais, and make sure to try pão de queijo , a local (and famous) Brazilian specialty!


In São Paulo and Rio, you'll get a more metropolitan vibe; fast food branches and famous restaurants abound. There's also significant influence from Italian and Portuguese immigrants, so you won't be disappointed.

The South region of Brazil is the national home of the " gauchos ", or Argentinian/Uruguayan cowboys. Expect lots of wood-fire barbecue and spirits to fight the cold!

Dishes influenced by the German and Dutch settlers who arrived in the region centuries ago are also very present. Make sure to try the locally-made beer and wine, gourmet cheese and much more! You don't want to miss drinking Chimarrão , a hot beverage made from yerba mate and pine nuts served in a gourd cup.

Tipping in Brazil

Remember that tipping in Brazil is not compulsory... but a tip of 10% is generally expected (and appreciated). Most restaurants include the service charge on your bill, but you can ask to take it away if you want.

Where to stay in Brazil

Here are the top picks for Brazil travel destinations . I've divided this section by region, so it's easier for you to plan your Brazil travel route . In my opinion, these places are the absolute best of Brazil . Any of these destinations is reason enough to plan a visit to Brazil !

North Region

If you want to go North, your flight will probably land in Manaus, the capital city of the state of Amazonas . There you will find  MUSA — Museum of Amazonia, the Amazonas Theater, and other historical landmarks. From Manaus, you can also take a boat to see the "Meeting of Waters" (Portuguese: Encontro das Águas), the confluence between the dark Rio Negro and the pale sandy-colored  Amazon River, or Rio Solimões.

Manaus is also the gateway to the Amazon rainforest and there are infinite tour options for every type of travel budget.

2. Presidente Figueiredo

A small town north of Manaus, Presidente Figueiredo is home to over 100 waterfalls, and is the perfect place for an avid outdoor enthusiast.  It contains part of the Uatumã Biological Reserve , a strictly protected conservation unit, and also holds about 2% of the Rio Negro Left Bank Environmental Protection Area , a sustainable use conservation area.

3. Alter do Chão

Alter do Chão is, in my opinion, one of the best places in Brazil . This beach paradise in the middle of the Amazon is one of the administrative districts of the city of Santarém and received the attention of Brazilians around 2017, when the Ministry of Tourism declared it a destination with potential.

Alter do Chão is located on the right bank of the Tapajós river, in the state of Pará.  Commonly referred to as the " Carribean of the Amazon " because of its white sand beaches, crystal clear waters,  and laid-back vibe, Alter do Chão is a relaxing place to spend a few days in the Amazon.  During weekends, the residents of Santarém and other nearby cities come in search of parties, beer, barbecue, music and dance.

Jalapão is a national reserve in the state of Tocantins, famous for its  dramatic landscapes with large orange sand dunes, towering rock formations and clear rivers and streams. 

The region is a popular destination for adventure tourism and eco-tourism . Most of Jalapão's attractions are located in the cities of Mateiros, Novo Acordo, Ponte Alta do Tocantins and São Félix do Tocantins. The Jalapão region has an area of 34,000 square kilometres, and is must-see for anyone  traveling to Brazil .

5. Anavilhanas Islands and National Park

Approximately 100 km from Manaus in the Rio Negro, you'll find one o f the most unique environments on earth : the Anavilhanas Archipelago. This is a complex of over 400 islands in the middle of the Amazon that constitutes the  largest group of pristine river islands in the world!

The Anavilhanas National Park  encompasses the archipelago and is part of a World Heritage Site. I n the dry season (from September to February), you can enjoy the beautiful white sand beaches, or " prainhas ", throughout the archipelago. In rainy season (from March to August), you can experience  boat trips between the islands and swim in crystalline streams. 

You can also explore Jaú National Park in the region.

Bonus for the North region: Attend Parintins Folk Festival

Taking place at the end of June every year and attracting people from all over the world, the city of Parintins (Amazonas) holds a unique festival with traditional music, dance, folklore and local food. The main theme of the festival is ' Boi Bumba ', a battle between two groups representing the legendary bulls, " Caprichoso " and " Garantido ."

You won't see costumes like those of the Parintins Folk Festival anywhere else in the world. They're nothing like those seen in Rio's Carnival, as the general atmosphere and music of Parintins Folk Festival is entirely unique.

The festival begins at a harbor where thousands of boats arrive with tourists eager to take part in one of Brazil's greatest folk festivals. If you are in Brazil around the time of Parintins Folk Festival and enjoy discovering local culture, it's certainly worth making the trip.

Northeast Region

Pro tip: There are many cheap flights from Portugal to the Northeast region of Brazil. Try looking for flights from Lisbon or Porto to Salvador, Recife, Fortaleza, or Natal and you'll be pleasantly surprised!

6. Salvador

Carnival in the state of Bahia takes place in February and is one of the largest festivals in Brazil.  

If you attend, you will hear (and very likely dance to) the best Afro-Brazilian music that Brazil has to offer. Salvador is the capital of Bahia and the African center of South America . The Carnival in Bahia celebrates all things African in the region, making it distinctive from the Carnival in Rio de Janeiro .

Salvador is famous for great sunset views ... so take your time to explore and   find your favorite! Also make sure to visit the famous viewpoint from E levador Lacerda.  Ponta do Humaitá and the Modern Art Museum of Bahia are other popular attractions.  Walk around the Pelourinho neighborhood and try local food and cachaça (a local spirit made from sugar cane). Finally, don't forget to visit Farol da Barra and the calm beach of Stella Maris!

Recife is a center for culture and leisure in the Northeast region of Brazil. It's also the main theatrical, gastronomic, and medical hub of its region. From the beautiful Recife Antigo (Old Town) to the various scenic spots with rivers, bridges, beaches, Recife has a lot to offer.

Recife is one of the most-visited Brazilian cities during Festa Junina and Carnival.  Carnival in Recife is one of the biggest parties of the year in Brazil .   Frevo music is the most famous and  popular folk music style associated with the Northeast region of Brazil. Originally from Recife, Frevo music involves the parade of Carnival blocks  (street bands) playing varied musical genres, such as maracatu , forró , and even electronic music.  You can visit the Frevo Museum in Recife to learn more about the history of this cultural symbol.

Another highlight of Recife is the Instituto Ricardo Brennand, a cultural institution of Recife that comprises a museum, an art gallery, a library and a large park. The museum has an incredible  collection of art from all over the world. Also worth visiting is the Parque das Esculturas, a park built on a reef in front of the Marco Zero of Recife. Parque das Esculturas is  a unique place that will certainly surprise you when you visit Recife.

8. Jericoacoara and Fortaleza

From Recife you can find transportation to Jericoacoara, a car-free town standing 300km from Fortaleza (capital of Ceará, pictured above).

Jeri, as locals call it, has been a National Park since 2002, so the construction of highways and roads — as well as any type of pavement whatsoever — is prohibited.  Jeri consists of blue lagoons, calm seas, and huge dunes, and was recently selected by The Washington Post as one of the  most beautiful beaches in the world .  Most visitors arrive from Fortaleza and change vehicles in Jijoca, the nearest town to Jeri with paved roads.

Central-West Region

9. brasília.

If you want to see the Central-West region of Brazil, your flight will land in Brasília, Goiânia or Palmas. Brasília is the third busiest airport in Brazil. Located atop the Brazilian highlands, Brasília is also the federal capital of Brazil  and seat of government of the Federal District.

Some of  Brasília's major landmarks include the Cathedral, National Library and government buildings. The Institute of Biological Sciences (IB) of the University of Brasília also makes for a nice visit.

10. Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park

From Brasília or Goiânia you can take a bus or organized tour to see Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park in Goiás! 

Chapada dos Veadeiros is a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site for being an outstanding preservation area of the Brazilian Cerrado   —  one of the world's oldest and most diverse tropical ecosystems.

11. The Pantanal

The Pantanal translates as 'large swamp' and is one of Brazil's most important biomes, encompassing the world's  largest tropical wetland area. 

While everyone has heard of the Amazon, The Pantanal Matogrossense National Park area far surpasses it when it comes to wildlife viewing. The Pantanal is home to over 600 species of birds as well as alligators, deer, otters, emus and monkeys. It's a fascinating destination if you love nature.

12. Alta Floresta

Alta Floresta  is another great  destination for outdoor adventurers  in the state of Mato Grosso. Many Brazilians visit every year to fish, swim, hike in the forest and take boat trips to spot wildlife. Located at the southern edge of the Amazon rainforest, Alta Floresta is also on the way to The Cristalino Private Natural Heritage Reserve , another popular eco-tourism destination.

Bonito is the main destination in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul for people who like to go diving. Attractions such as the Blue Lake (pictured above), Mimoso Caves, the Natural Aquarium and the Sucuri River are the most visited. Rafting, treetop walking, waterfalls, caves, hiking and diving are some of the other popular options of things to do in Bonito.

Pro tip:  Only 8 km away from Bonito you can visit  Rio Formoso Ecological Park and get to know Brazil's rich diversity of flora.

Southeast Region

14. são paulo.

The list of things to do in São Paulo  can get very long! Start with the museums like MASP, Museu Afro Brasil and The Pinacoteca, one of the most important art museums in Brazil. Walk Avenida Paulista and visit cultural centers like Japan House and Casa das Rosas.

On weekends, a traditional itinerary for  paulistanos  (São Paulo locals), includes going to fairs and markets around the city center. Fairs at Bixiga, Liberdade and Praça Benedito Calixto are some of the city's most famous, and offer local beers, organic products and artisan crafts.

São Paulo is also a nice place to visit parks like Ibirapuera or Vila Lobos. A portion of the city has bicycle paths, and some parks have their own museums, and auditoriums. Ibirapuera even offers a planetarium!

Don't miss the São Paulo LGBT Pride , which usually takes place at Avenida Paulista to the beat of trio elétricos (big decorated trucks with loud music). It's one of the largest parades of its kind in the world, and there's also debates and cultural fairs on topics like tolerance and respect.

Sampa, São Paulo's nickname, offers vibrant nightlife and a thriving culinary scene. You can find high-standard international restaurants and fine dishes made by famous Brazilian chefs. Sampa is also considered the Brazilian capital of pizza, with over six thousand pizza places scattered throughout the city!

15. Minas Gerais

The capital of Minas is Belo Horizonte, or simply BH. It was the first Brazilian city  planned from the start for future expansion in order to meet growing demand. Visit the  Pampulha Art Museum, Pampulha Church, and Casa do Baile. Also nearby is Brumadinho, where you'll find Inhotim  —  a large open air museum with one of the most expressive contemporary art collections in the world.

Don't forget to try Pão de Queijo and the local cheeses in Minas Gerais, and also visit colonial towns like Ouro Preto, São João Del Rey and Diamantina.

16. Rio de Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro is home to Christ the Redeemer and Corcovado Hill , two of the  most visited attractions in Brazil . Standing at 38 meters tall, Christ the Redeemer is Brazil's most prominent landmark. From Corcovado Hill, you'll also see spectacular views of the entire city.

Visiting Copacabana  and  Ipanema are among some of the best things to do in Rio de Janeiro . These neighborhoods can mean very different things for different people; for some, they are a business or tourist destination, but for locals, they're great places to exercise, meet friends, and socialize.

Carnival in Rio de Janeiro is all about samba, dancing and parades full of more color and rhythm than you can possibly imagine. If you're planning a trip to Brazil , Carnival in Rio is probably one of the best and worst times you could possibly go. Hotels get insanely expensive, but you can always find plenty of  Worldpackers hosts in Rio and save lots of money to spend on caipirinhas !

South Region

17. curitiba.

Curitiba has a strong cultural influence from its many Italian, German, Polish and Ukrainian immigrants. In addition to being a  cosmopolitan city, Curitiba is also one of the most prosperous and organized cities in Brazil .

A strong tech scene and culture of innovation permeates Curitiba. The city is also home to many parks and green areas. 

The best things to do in Curitiba  include visiting Parque Barigui, Opera de Arame and Tangua Park. Parque Barigui in particular is a favorite spot among locals and a great place to see  capybaras, birds and beautiful nature. It's also worth seeing Th e Oscar Niemeyer Museum, a space dedicated to the exhibition of visual arts, architecture, urbanism and design.

Curitiba is one of Brazil's most cultural cities and has the highest number of vegetarians in the country! Don't forget to visit the Contemporary art Museum, Indigenous Art Museum, Holocaust Museum and Botanical Garden.

18. Ilha do Mel

Just two hours by car from Curitiba is Ilha do Mel (Honey Island). The name makes it sound like a honeymoon destination, but it's actually one of the most pristine and picturesque beaches in all of Brazil .

Ilha do Mel is calm, clean and not many people go there during low season... so if you're lucky, you might find a beach all to yourself!

19. Florianópolis

A four hour drive from Curitiba, Florianópolis, also called Floripa, is divided into two parts. Most of the city's area consists of the island of Santa Catarina , connected to the mainland by two bridges. Santa Catarina is famous for its beaches but also has beautiful forested mountains and a lagoon.

Jurerê Internacional is a beach-side neighborhood on the northern shore of the island of Florianópolis in Santa Catarina. Full of luxurious mansions and fancy restaurants, Jurerê  offers some of the most lively nightlife in Brazil .

Florianópolis is a famous spot for  surfing in Brazil  and hosts national and international championships. Joaquina and Praia Mole are examples of famous surf beaches in Florianópolis. Sailing, kitesurfing, diving and offshore fishing are also among the city's main activities.

20. Porto Alegre

Only an hour and a half away from Serra Gaucha, Porto Alegre is the first of many trendy destinations in South region of Brazil such as Gramado, Canela, and Bento Gonçalves.

Porto Alegre is the capital of Rio Grande do Sul, the last state in Brazil before Uruguay! The city is home to more than 50 museums and cultural centers. The Gasometer is one of the best places to visit in Porto Alegre. It's a former power station that has become a cultural center. The rooftop offers a great view of the river. 

At Memorial of Rio Grande do Sul you'll learn about the state's history and partake in wine tasting sessions provided by regional winemakers!

21. Iguaçu Falls

At the point where Brazil, Paraguay, and Argentina meet, the Iguaçu river drops spectacularly in a group of hundreds of waterfalls that thunder down into the gorge below. Some of the falls — like Garganta do Diabo —are more than 100 meters high!

The forest and river cover such a broad area that it's impossible to see everything at once, but you'll get the broadest panorama from the Brazilian side of the falls. If you choose to visit the Argentinian side, you'll have more options to explore the rainforest's unique flora and fauna, while also enjoying trails to spectacular views.

Both sides offer different perspectives and views, so most tourists choose to see both. The falls are protected by the UNESCO-acclaimed Iguaçu National Park , where subtropical rainforests guard over a 1,000 species of birds and mammals, including deer, otters, ocelots, and capybaras.

Iguaçu National Park, with the Falls as its main feature, is considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its exceptional natural beauty and habitat of rare and endangered species.

Worldpackers in Brazil 

Want to have an authentic local experience in Brazil? Look no further than a work exchange in Brazil with Worldpackers ! Help a host by becoming a member of the Worldpackers community and get accommodation and other benefits in exchange for a few hours of work a day.

When planning to  visit Brazil on a budget , it's especially nice to know where to start. I've selected a few great Worldpackers hosts in Brazil below for inspiration.

If you want to experience the Brazilian Cerrado and learn more about Brazil's immense biodiversity, check out the projects on offer in Alto Paraíso de Goiás, Brazil . Most of these projects offer the opportunity to be immersed in incredible nature, and volunteers often include students from cities nearby like Brasília and Goiânia. 


If you're looking for a full-on immersive eco experience, consider working at Coletivo Mão na Terra, an urban permaculture farm in Curitiba . In addition to caring for the agro-forest and community garden, you’ll help with events and courses about permaculture and urban nature conservation, learn how to make organic soap and natural inks, and practice yoga and meditation. Any event or activity during your stay is free and the Coletivo is located right next to the Oscar Niemeyer Museum (The Eye Museum), which a great place to start exploring Curitiba, otherwise known as the cultural capital of south Brazil.

If you to enjoy relaxed guesthouse environment during your time in Brazil, stay in the mountains while doing a work exchange in Ibitipoca, Minas Gerais . Ibitipoca is a mountain village located near a state reserve with paradise-like waterfalls. The hostel/guesthouse on offer is a delightful country house with wood-burning stove, grass in the front yard, fruit trees and birds. If you look forward to lying in a hammock, reading a book, stargazing, and having a coffee and simply being, this is the ideal place for you.

Costs/ways to save money in Brazil

Generally speaking, Brazil isn't an expensive country to visit. It's not hard to travel on a budget in Brazil. For those coming from the United States, Australia, the UK or Europe, the exchange rate will make you feel like everything is very cheap. For those coming from Latin America, this may vary. The currency in Brazil is the real (R$), and R$1.00 is currently worth ~US$0.26.

Saving money on on food

Prices in Brazil have not been consistent for a long time and locals complain frequently, especially about gas and grocery prices. Still, if you want to know how to eat cheap in Brazil , my best advice is to go to a supermarket, buy your own food, and cook at your hostel.

If you don't like to cook, eating out in Brazil is not the cheapest of activities, but it's certainly possible to find affordable places with delicious food. Especially if you like a big lunch. Brazilians tend to eat their largest meal in the middle of the day.

You can find all major fast food restaurants and plenty of information online about affordable places to eat in the main capitals, and throughout the country you'll find any kind of food you can imagine. "All you can eat" restaurants are very common for pizza, meat and sushi and they're called Rodízio . You can eat rodízio de pizza from R$25 to R$125 depending on the quality and location of the restaurant you go to.

If you're traveling around Brazil on a budget , eat where the locals eat. Go to a city center and look for the words marmita , prato feito or the abbreviation " PF ", and you might be in for a nice treat. Marmita is a packed lunch you can buy in almost any restaurant near an office district or city center in Brazil. It will, almost certainly, include rice, beans, some sort of salad and meat. Usually, you can choose the kind of meat from chicken, pork, beef or fish. If you're a vegetarian, ask for eggs and some extra salad. Don't forget to smile and say obrigado!

A marmita in São Paulo can go from R$8 to R$50 depending on what you order. There are even restaurants specialized in vegan pocket lunches and other healthy alternatives. In Curitiba, you can eat as much as you want for R$20 if you go to the office district at lunch time. The further north and northeast you go, the more this kind of food gets cheaper.

Saving money on transportation

One big expense in Brazil is transportation, since the country is quite big. The cheapest option is to travel by bus or car . BlaBlaCar is a great resource for safe, cost-effective travel in Brazil . For example, a ride from São Paulo to Curitiba using BlaBlaCar costs around R$90 or less. 

Intercity buses are a good way to visit Brazil on a budget too, but keep an eye on airlines like Azul, Gol and LATAM. Domestic airlines often have promotions and low-cost flights between the main cities. In 2019, a good average price to look for when booking a flight between Rio and São Paulo is less than R$200.

If you're planning to stay in one city for a while, you can expect to pay around R$4.50 to use the local bus or metro. By the way, São Paulo has the biggest metro network in Brazil , and only four other cities in Brazil have subway lines. São Paulo is one of the most crowded metro systems in the world, so avoid rush hours (from 6 to 9 am and from 5 to 8 pm).

Saving money on accommodation

You can find a hostel for R$25, but you don't need to stay in a very cheap place if you exchange work for accommodation . 

Without paying for accommodation, and getting up to three daily free meals, the price of your trip will drop massively. If you find a host that provides only breakfast, you could easily survive on R$100/week. If you want to party, buy drinks from the supermarket and have an esquenta  with friends before you go out. Esquenta means warm-up, and is a kind of home party before the main party. Brazilians use esquentas  to drink at home or at the hostel to get a little tipsy before they go out to bars, in order to save some money.

Remember to use the Worldpackers travel experience  to your advantage and ask your host about their favorite places to eat, the best routes to get where you want, and nice bars to go out. Or turn on the adventure switch and go wander with other world-packers that are also touring Brazil on a budget .

Other costs

Consider saving some money for vaccinations. In Brazil, vaccination is not a requirement for tourists, but it's highly recommended. Remember to include that cost if you want to be safe when traveling to Brazil . 

Yellow fever, malaria and dengue are present in many regions of the country, so be sure to take proper precautions to avoid mosquito-borne diseases. Bring repellent and use proper equipment if you go camping, like mosquito nets.

It's very easy to define Brazil in terms of Carnival, caipirinhas , and nice landscapes.  However, when traveling to Brazil , it's only inevitable that  you will get a true feel for the complex layers of this vibrant, diverse, and immense nation. 

There are two things that unite all Brazilians: hospitality, and a big smile. Open your mind and heart to discover Brazil and I promise that you will be welcomed with open arms. 

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Juliana Arthuso

Tradutora e mochileira :) Conquistei a fluência do inglês estudando, trabalhando e fazendo voluntariado no exterior. Trabalho de qualquer lugar do mundo desde 2018, e vc também pode! Confira meus cursos na Academy: como se tornar tradutor profissional e inglês para viajantes. VIAGENS: Até agora, visitei 22 países, morei na Holanda, na Alemanha, na China. Fiz 5 intercâmbios - 3 com bolsa de estudos e outros trabalhando ou como voluntária - fiz voluntariado no Brasil e na Europa, mochilão pela Europa, e agora estou morando no Brasil. Últimos destinos da américa latina: Peru e Colômbia.

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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

18 Fun and Interesting Facts about Brazil

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

28 Best Things to Do in Rio De Janeiro in 2024

• South America Tours
• Brazil Tours
• Group Tours

Brazil Group Tours 2024/2025

Join a community of like-minded people eager to dive into all that Brazil has to offer on a Brazil group tours. From exploring the charming streets of Rio de Janeiro to marveling at taking a tour of Iguazu Falls , every moment is enriched by the lively conversations, laughter, and shared enthusiasm of your fellow group members. Dive into Salvador's lively culture, immersing yourself in the rhythms of samba and capoeira. Indulge in the bright energy of the Amazon jungle, where you'll encounter unique creatures and learn about traditional tribes. Stroll through Salvador's colorful markets, hike through the lush trails of Chapada Diamantina National Park, and relax on Fernando de Noronha's pristine beaches. With a guide by your side, you will have a chance to explore breathtaking locations, delivering useful insights and ensuring a smooth experience for everybody. Prepare to make lifelong experiences and form friendships with other travelers by being part of a group tour to Brazil . You will find our group tours to Brazil below.

• Tours in Brazil
• Brazil Travel Guide
• Best Time to Visit Brazil

106 Group Tours in Brazil with 167 Reviews

• Starts Rio De Janeiro, Brazil
• Ends Rio De Janeiro, Brazil

Best of Brazil

• Best price guaranteed
• No booking fees
• Tour Type Small Group Tour
• Activities Explorer
• Accommodation Hotel
• Transport Boat, Ferry, Bus, Private Vehicle, Minibus & Taxi
• Age Range 15-99 yrs
• Operated in English
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,010
• Special Deal (10%): - US$ 101
• Total Price from: US$ 909
• Apr 21 Only 2 seats left
• May 26 Only 6 seats left
• View More Jan 1, 2019 Jan 2, 2019 Jan 3, 2019

• Starts Salvador, Brazil

Pure Brazil

• Activities Wildlife & Active and outdoor Wildlife , Active and outdoor , Cruise , Cultural, religious and historic sites & Safari 'data-more-tripid='17109'>+3 more
• Accommodation Hotel, Lodge & Eco Lodge
• Transport Boat, Bus, Flight, Private Vehicle & 4WD Jeep
• Age Range 16-95 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 6,720
• Special Deal (4%): - US$ 270
• Total Price from: US$ 6,450
• Apr 27 Only 8 seats left
• Jun 15 Only 10 seats left

• Starts Cuiaba, Brazil
• Ends Cuiaba, Brazil

Land of the Jaguar

• Activities Wildlife & Bird watching Wildlife , Bird watching , Wildlife safaris and game drives & Safari 'data-more-tripid='7959'>+2 more
• Accommodation Hotel & Lodge
• Transport Boat & Jeep
• Brochure Price: US$ 8,098
• Special Deal (5%): - US$ 403
• Total Price from: US$ 7,695
• Jul 01 Only 8 seats left
• Jul 18 Only 7 seats left

Natural Wonders of Brazil - 12 days

• Tour Type Group Tour
• Activities Natural landmarks sightseeing
• Transport Flight, Boat, Private Vehicle & 4WD Jeep
• Age Range 18-80 yrs
• Sep 21 10+ seats left
• Nov 16 Only 8 seats left

Rio, Foz do Iguazu and Pantanal Experience

• Free cancellation
• Trip customizable
• Activities City sightseeing & Natural landmarks sightseeing City sightseeing , Natural landmarks sightseeing & Waterfalls 'data-more-tripid='27203'>+1 more
• Transport Flight, Boat & Private Vehicle
• Age Range 12-99 yrs
• Operated in English, Portuguese, Spanish

• Starts Foz Do Iguacu, Brazil
• Ends Campo Grande, Brazil

Pantanal, Bonito & Iguazu Adventure 9D/8N (from Foz do Iguacu)

• Activities Adventure & Wildlife Adventure , Wildlife & Explorer 'data-more-tripid='34452'>+1 more
• Accommodation Lodge
• Transport 4WD Jeep, Boat, Bus & Flight
• Age Range 18-99 yrs
• Apr 11 10+ seats left
• Apr 12 10+ seats left

• Starts Manaus, Brazil
• Ends Manaus, Brazil

Manaus Amazon Jungle Adventure 5D/4N

• Activities Rainforest and jungle visits & Honeymoon
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The Traveling Twin Mama

3 Epic Brazil Itineraries (2024): How to Spend 7-Days, 10-Days, and 14-Days in Brazil

Marquita’s Travels contains affiliate links and is a member of Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. If you make a purchase using one of these Amazon links, I may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. Read my  disclaimer  for more information.

Brazil, being almost the size of the United States, requires some type of itinerary, especially if your time is limited and you’re trying to explore as much of the country as possible. With the size of the country in mind, and knowing our Brazil itinerary had to be family-friendly, I had to do my research, including talking to locals to ensure my family got the most out of our Brazilian vacation. And boy did we! 

Below, I highlight three different Brazilian family vacation itineraries. After reading, you will have gained an in-depth understanding of Brazil’s most popular tourist destinations and how to interact with them for an unforgettable vacation. No matter if you choose a seven-day, ten-day, or two-week Brazil itinerary, you will be well prepared to experience their beautiful culture and enjoy your time there. 

Brazil Itinerary 

Strategically positioned in the tropical and coastal region of South America , Brazil has a plethora of breathtaking scenes that you must see. From magnificent waterfalls, beaches, lakes, and parks, the country has placed itself among the top tourist destination sites worldwide.

Its centuries-old art culture also sets it apart from other top tourist destinations. From ancient architectural buildings to luxurious and modern skyscrapers, you will find no shortage of artistic scenes.  There are a vast collection of artistic items showcased in museums and art galleries throughout the various cities. 

In addition, the country has a vibrant and dynamic culture. It is possible to sharpen your culinary experience by tasting delicious cuisines from various cultures around the country.  Plus the country is known for its vibrant music and dance culture. So no matter which Brazil itinerary you choose, you’re subject to having a great time. 

Keep reading for my different Brazil trip itinerary options and pack your bags if you haven’t already.

How many Days to Stay in Brazil?

Due to the size of the country, the minimum amount of days you should spend in Brazil is 7 days, especially if you want to explore more than one city.

Since Brazil has so many unique travel destinations , you could spend 10 days, 14 days, and even months in Brazil and still want to come back to explore more.

No matter how many days you plan to stay in Brazil, be sure to get travel insurance . While traveling in Brazil, I had an incident where the shower glass shattered on me. Needless to say, I was glad I had travel insurance .

✔️ Learn more about my favorite travel insurance , SafetyWing ✔️

Brazil Trip Itinerary: 7 Days in Brazil

On your family vacation , you can still get the most out of Brazil by following the 7 days in Brazil Trip Itinerary provided below. You will gain a lot of experience engaging with three of the country’s most famous cities during this period.

This is the itinerary I recently did with my husband, aunt, and twin toddlers. Let’s just say, it’s a relatively packed itinerary; however, we did have 2 days of relaxation in our Brazil itinerary – our first day in Sao Paulo and a day in Rio.

Itinerary #1

Brazil 7-day itinerary: sao paulo, salvador, bahia, and rio de janeiro , day 1-3: sao paulo, brazil itinerary.

Sao Paulo is the largest city in Brazil and one of the most populous in the world. It has managed to place itself as one of the top tourist destinations in Brazil because of its rich artistic history, delicious food scene, and diverse population that reflects the many cultures that converged there over time.

Is Sao Paulo worth visiting?

Do you love a diverse food scene, beautiful art, history, and/or architecture? If so, Sao Paulo offers all of this and more. 

Sao Paulo is a major center for business and finance in South America, making it an important destination for business travelers. As a result, you will experience a dynamic collaboration of cultures when visiting- from the cuisine to the museums and art galleries, as well as the vibrant nightlife. 

Which Sao Paulo airport is the best to fly into?

Sao Paulo is a great city to use as a base to fly in and out of Brazil. Sao Paulo Guarulhos (GRU) offers several direct flights into the United States and Europe, making it the busiest airport in Brazil (remember it’s the financial district of Brazil.)

If you’re looking to fly to other cities within Brazil,  São Paulo–Congonhas Airport offers several nonstop flights to a plethora of cities within the country. Thus, maximizing your time in Brazil. Because who wants to spend an entire day with multiple flights getting from one city to another? 

Things to do in Sao Paulo

When traveling to a city, one of my main objectives is to experience the destination like a local. Due to its rich cultural heritage, Sao Paulo offers a wide range of family-friendly things to do, including site-seeing, art exploration, swimming, shopping, dining, and more.

Museums and Galleries

So, let’s start with the great Pinacoteca do Estado de Sao Paulo museum, the oldest art museum in Sao Paulo and one of the most important museums in Brazil. 

The museum is home to a variety of Brazilian art, as well as European art and structures. Similarly, they host various art collections and cultural events. So be sure to check their website when planning your Sao Paulo, Brazil itinerary. 

For art lovers, Pinacoteca is just the beginning of the rich art that Sao Paulo offers. There are numerous art galleries throughout the city if you’d like to explore more art while there.

Another local must-visit thing to do in Sao Paulo is Ibirapuera Park. Now you may be thinking, a park, really? Yes! Why come to Sao Paulo and not go to the most visited park in South America?

People Watching and Cultural Activities

Ibirapuera Park is home to multiple museums, a planetarium, cultural events, pavilions, and trails. It’s a great addition to your Brazil itinerary if you want to experience various aspects of Sao Paulo in one place. 

Plus, it’s the perfect thing to do in Sao Paulo with kids! I mean, what kid doesn’t love a park?

Similarly, Paulista Avenue embodies the culture and heart of Sao Paulo. Within its almost 2 miles stretch, you can find a variety of restaurants, museums, art galleries, financial institutes, and more. It makes great people-watching!

Lastly, you can’t spend time in Sao Paulo without trying out its culinary scene. It has a wide selection of restaurants, bars, and coffee shops from various cultures, including Japanese. In fact, Sao Paulo has the largest Japanese population outside of Japan. 

✔️ Learn more about Sao Paulo City Tour to maximize your time ✔️

Where to stay in Sao Paulo

If you have spent an exciting and eventful day with your family in Brazil, you will probably need an ideal resting place. Whatever your budget, Sao Paulo has a variety of accommodations .

Sao Paulo Budget-Friendly Hotel

A four-star hotel for less than $100. Say less.

The Mercure Sao Paulo Paulista Hotel is conveniently located within a short walk to Paulista Avenue, the metro, and buses. With clean rooms, friendly staff, and a great location, this hotel is a great option for those who want to be in the midst of the action without breaking the bank. 

Sao Paulo Mid-tier Hotel

L’Hotel Porto Bay Sao Paulo is a boutique, 5-star hotel that exudes luxury and top-tier service within walking distance of Paulista Avenue.  For those who enjoy spending time at the hotel, they offer a spa and gym, as well as a beautiful pool. 

Our Countryside Sao Paulo Family Vacation

I personally have experienced the metropolis of Sao Paulo for work. So when one of my good friends moved to Indiatuba, Sao Paulo, 2 hours from the metropolitan, I knew we had to take a family vacation to Brazil . 

Instead of staying in Indiatuba, a decent size city, we opted for the countryside of Itu, which was less than an hour from where my friend lives. There’s something special about the countryside, where you slow down and can create beautiful, simple memories during your Brazil vacation.

We were going to need this rest day because our one-week Brazil itinerary was jam pack with action!

Family Vacation in Itu, Sao Paulo, Brazil

When traveling to Brazil with kids, our Itu vacation rental was everything we needed and more! As soon as our driver opened the van doors for us to explore our new home for the next few days, our twins immediately ran to the play area, which included a trampoline and playhouse. Between this play area and the soccer field, our boys literally stayed outside for hours, playing.

Gilda and her sister, the chef and housekeeping service cooked mouthwatering meals and kept the house and its facilities in immaculate shape. Not only was the home super welcoming, like going to grandma’s house, but it also had a pool, sauna, and jacuzzi, offering any luxury that you may want. 

The home itself was our vacation in Itu. We sat in the hammocks on the veranda and watched the kids play while drinking caipirinhas and listening to music. This was the perfect, slow start to a very busy Brazil itinerary. 

Day 4-5: Salvador da Bahia, Brazil Itinerary

Salvador, Bahia in Northeast Brazil is known for its rich Black and African culture and history, as well as its artistic scenes, such as museums and art galleries. On top of that, Salvador has beautiful white beaches, so your family can have a variety of fun while vacationing. 

The best way to get to Salvador, Bahia from Sao Paulo

The best way to get to Salvador, Bahia from most cities in Brazil is to fly.

Sao Paulo is no different.

Sao Paulo is located in the Southeast region of Brazil, but driving northwards towards Salvador, Bahia will take over 24 hours. Thus, flying is the best option. All three Sao Paulo area airports offer direct flights to Salvador, making the flight only 2 hours. 

Personally, we flew out of the Campinas airport at 5 PM and made it to Salvador in time for dinner.   I was so happy to learn that there is indeed Uber in Brazil , in over 100 cities! This made it super easy to get around Bahia and other Brazilian cities.

Is Salvador da Bahia worth visiting?

If you are a cultural enthusiast, Salvador, Bahia in Northeast Brazil, is the right place to visit. Due to its Afro-Brazilian population, it is considered the black city in Brazil. While peeking through the streets of Salvador, you may be dazzled by the city’s vibrant and dynamic culture, not forgetting the remarkable colonial architecture.

Also, prepare your taste buds for a savory culinary experience with a touch of indigenous African flavors and ingredients. As if this is not enough, you can enjoy that toothsome meal while watching your kids build sand castles along the beach.

Things to do in Salvador da Bahia

There are many things your family can do in Salvador during your one-week Brazil itinerary, but tackling them all one by one might be challenging. If you take a guided tour of the city from a reputable company, you can get a good feel for the city in a short amount of time. We took a private African city tour with Sayuri Bahia Local Experience.

If you’re into history and understanding the intricacies of different religions and how people live, adding a Candomble house is a unique addition to your Brazil itinerary. Candomble is an Afro-Brazilian religion that fuses West African tribal practices brought by the enslaved with the beliefs of Native Brazilian Indians. The religion was technically banned by the government until as recently as 1970.

Visiting their place of worship opens your eyes to the history of Salvador and its people. Since a Candomble house is sacred, it’s not open to the public. You have to go on a tour. 

✔️ Learn more about the Candomble Religion with a tour ✔️

In my personal opinion, your Salvador da Bahia, Brazil itinerary is not complete without doing these three things: visiting the historical Pelourinho, going to the beach, and taking a tour, preferably an African tour, of the city. 

✔️ Learn more Salvador da Bahia city tour ✔️

Pelourinho is the frame historic district, declared one of UNESCO’s World Heritage sites. Here you will find the culture and soul of the city through its architecture, art and structures, cathedrals, and more. You can take the Lacerda Elevator which connects the lower city to the upper city (Pelourinho is in the upper city).

While in Pelourinho, be sure to stop at the square where Michael Jackson recorded the “They don’t really care about us” music video.

Casa do Carnaval da Bahia

Living in New Orleans, we were very curious about Carnival in Bahia, so we stopped at Bahia’s Carnival House as it’s not a far walk from the Lacerda Elevator. It was so cool to see how they celebrate Carnival. The kids loved the room where you can dress in carnival attire and learn different dance moves.

Oh and the view of the city from the top of the museum is breathtaking. It’s the perfect place to sit at their cafe and enjoy a caipirinha and coxinha. 

Salvador da Bahia Beaches

Salvador is known for its beautiful beaches. We personally stayed by and hung out at Porto da Barra Beach. It’s a local beach filled with families enjoying the calm waters. The street that lines the beach is filled with delicious restaurants, but it’s not uncommon for folks to grill on the beach in Salvador. 

✔️ Want to explore the islands around Salvador? Learn more here ✔️

Where to Stay in Salvador

I’m team “nice and lux lodging” So having an ideal place to relax after engaging in breathtaking activities throughout the day is a must!

We personally stayed at an Airbnb close to Porto da Barra beach. The location was perfect as it was only a block or so from the beach, restaurants, and lighthouse. The view from the living room was perfect, but the rest of the accommodations were just okay. 

If you want a Salvador, Bahia vacation rental close to the beach and large enough for a family, you can check it out . 

Where to stay in Salvador da Bahia

Lodging Close to Salvador Beach, Porto da Barra

Grande Hotel da Barra – Located across the street from the beach, this hotel provides beautiful views of the beach. The accommodations themselves are a bit basic, but it’s one of the best options available if you’re looking to be close to the beach.

Close to Salvador Colonial District, Pelourinho

Hotel Casa do Amarelindo – Located within the historic district of Pelourinho, you are close to the action of the historic part of town. This hotel offers excellent service that includes car service and tours. Plus, the views of the city from the terrace are breathtaking. 

Day 5-7: Rio de Janeiro

So I must admit, when I first planned our one-week Brazil itinerary, I initially didn’t have Rio on the list, just Sao Paulo and Salvador. Well, my husband wasn’t having it. And I’m grateful.

Our family vacation in Rio was literally one of the highlights of our Brazilian itinerary. Rio is the perfect family vacation destination. The entire family enjoyed Rio so much that we were all sad when our time there came to an end. 

The best way to get to Rio de Janeiro from Salvador, Bahia

There is no need to worry about moving to the next stage of your fun-filled Brazil family vacation. Rio is located on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean, in the Southeastern region of the country, similar to Sao Paulo.

A 7-day Brazil itinerary vacation shouldn’t be wasted on day-long drives when you could be exploring Rio, a vibrant and exhilarating city. Taking one of the multiple flights from Salvador to Rio will save you much-needed vacation time with your family.

For us, we took a 4 AM flight from Salvador and arrived in Rio de Janeiro around 630 AM, with a fun-packed Brazil itinerary. Let’s just say we didn’t get to our lodging until 5 PM!

Why Rio is one of the most visited cities in South America?

Rio de Janeiro is a popular vacation destination site, attracting millions of tourists worldwide. Subsequently, the city is considered one of the most visited cities in South America.

Here’s why. 

Rio’s natural landscape is literally breathtaking. It’s picturesque.

Its beauty alone makes you want to explore its neighborhoods, beaches, and mountains.  On top of that, its rich and dynamic culture is so vibrant and filled with delicious food, kind people, and fun vibes. 

There’s literally something for everyone in Rio de Janeiro. 

Things to do in Rio de Janeiro 

Rio de Janeiro offers a wide variety of things to do, and yes, even family-friendly activities. In fact, there is enough to do that one could fill an entire one-week Brazil itinerary in Rio alone.

If it’s your first time visiting Rio, navigating the city’s colorful mix of art and culture may be challenging due to its massive size and the minimum number of people who can speak English . Engaging a seasoned city guide who’ll take you through the city’s enumerating scenes would be beneficial. Since this was a family trip and there were 5 of us, including twin toddlers, we took a private tour. 

Our guide, Alex (Whats App +55 21 98112-6940), was both friendly and professional. He was amazing with the boys and a big help when they became tired or started showing signs of their age (my parents know what I’m talking about.) Working with him gave us the flexibility to maximize our Rio, Brazil itinerary while meeting our family’s needs. 

✔️ If you do choose to rent a car, check out these affordable rental rates ✔️

Our Rio Family Vacation Itinerary

When we landed in Rio at 630 AM, we hit the ground running. 

Christ the Redeemer- A Must-Do Rio Activity

Our first stop directly from the airport was Christ the Redeemer, one of the seven world wonders of the world. Leaving directly from the airport positioned us to be one of the first people there. We wanted to get there as early as possible to get good pictures to commemorate my boys’ second world wonder.

Machu Picchu was their first world wonder.

I recommend that you arrive at Christ the Redeemer as close to the opening as possible because, towards the end of our time there, it was starting to get crowded and more challenging to get a picture without someone in it. 

Another great option to get views of both Christ the Redeemer and Sugar Loaf Mountain is the Estrada Mirante Dona Marta lookout. There is a fraction of the people there and the views of Sugar Loaf Mountain and the city of Rio are absolutely breathtaking.

On the same day, you potentially could include a stop at the famous Selaraon Stairs , or even have lunch with Christ the Redeemer in the background at Parque Lage .

Parque Lage

If you choose to go to Parque Lage, note that it’s more than just a restaurant. It’s also a park. One of my kids truly enjoyed exploring the park. We even saw monkeys running around.

If you just want to take a picture with the iconic scene of Christ the Redeemer in the background (featured in Pharrell and Snoop Dog’s ‘Beautiful’  music video), you have to make a reservation to take a picture.

However, a reservation is not required if you want to eat there. It’s first come, first serve. Our wait to eat was about 45 minutes to an hour. 

Sugarloaf Mountain

Sugarloaf Mountain is an experience within itself as you take cable cars to two different mountains, Urca and Sugarloaf. Each offers incredible and unique views of the city. At each stop, there are a variety of restaurants, shops, and more to stop and explore. 

Adventurous Things to do in Rio

If you haven’t had enough of an adrenaline rush from the city vibe, you might enjoy hang gliding and swaying leafless, taking in the unparalleled views of the city. Or even take a helicopter ride and take in the spectacular view of Christ the Redeemer statue, Copacabana, and Ipanema beaches.

The experiences in Rio are endless. From sailing on the Guanabara Bay to hiking to waterfalls , the infamous Telegraph Rock , or even the challenging Pedra da Gavea . 

No matter what you choose to do in Rio, you are bound to have a great time!

👉🏽 Adventurous Things to do in Rio 👈🏽

✔️ Hang Gliding ✔️

✔️ Sailing on the Guanabara Bay ✔️

✔️ Hiking Waterfalls ✔️

✔️ Hiking Telegraph Rock ✔️

✔️ Hiking Pedra da Gavea ✔️

Where to stay in Rio

Rio is such a massive city that finding the right neighborhood to stay in comes down to preference. Keep reading for where to stay in Rio de Janeiro !

Barra da Tijuca, Rio de Janeiro Hotel 

We personally stayed in a local, upscale neighborhood, Barra da Tijuca . This neighborhood made me want to move there as it’s home to its own beautiful, less crowded beach. As well as a variety of restaurants, boutiques, and other recreational sites.

Do note that it’s about a thirty-minute drive from most tourist hot spots, but that’s what I loved about it. You can drive to the ‘must-see’ attractions like Christ the Redeemer, do all of them while out, then come back ‘home’ and enjoy your time around locals. 

If you prefer to be in the midst of all of the action, Copacabana and Ipanema are wonderful options as well. Please note, that Copacabana Beach and Ipanema Beach are less than a mile from one another, so why choose one? You can stay in one neighborhood and walk to the other. 

Beach Hotel, Windsor Marapendi – This 5-Star hotel is perfectly located in front of the beach, which offers tremendous views of the beach from the rooftop pool. The rooms, breakfast, and service are all excellent. 

Copacabana Hotel, Rio de Janeiro  

Copacabana is the most popular Rio destination for tourists. This bustling neighborhood is home to the pristine, two-mile, crescent shape beach which is lined with a variety of restaurants, cafes, and shops. There’s always something to do in Copacabana, no matter the time of day.

Windsor California Copacabana – Directly, across the street from the beach and within walking distance to anything you may need, this hotel is a great option for anyone looking to be within close proximity to Copacabana beach. Not only is the location great, but also the accommodations and service, all at a pretty affordable rate.

Ipanema Hotel, Rio de Janeiro

Ipanema is Copacabana’s slightly more upscale cousin. The neighborhood also features a beautiful beach whose beauty draws tourists to sunbathe and even surf. Here you will find upscale boutiques as well as fine-dining restaurants. 

Hotel Arpoador – This boutique hotel is located steps from the beach, offering incredible views from the hotel as well as hammocks in the rooms to enjoy the view. While here, you must try the breakfast, one of the things it’s well known for.

Brazil Trip Itinerary: 10 Days in Brazil

Looking to explore and get the most out of Brazil’s unique attractions. This Brazil 10-day Itinerary explores and offers the best of all worlds- from the largest metropolitan in Brazil (Sao Paulo) to a natural wonder of the world (Iguazu Falls), to one of the seven world wonders (Christ the Redeemer), and so much more! 

Itinerary #2

10 days in brazil sao paulo, iguazu falls, rio de janeiro, day 1-3: são paulo, brazil trip itinerary  .

Love experiencing the feel of a large, bustling city. Sao Paulo is your place. Take in the city’s rich history and art culture through its various museums and galleries before people-watching on the bustling Paulista Avenue or Ibirapuera Park.

And Sao Paulo can’t be a part of your Brazil itinerary without exploring its delicious gastronomy scene. Likewise, if experiencing nightlife in a different country is your vibe, you won’t be disappointed in Sao Paulo. 

Day 4-6: Iguazu Falls, Brazil Trip Itinerary

Get ready to explore one of the remarkable natural wonders of the world, Iguazu Falls. Not only can you experience this breathtaking waterfall up close and personal, but the area offers a quaint town filled with restaurants and shops, as well as some parks and hikes. 

What is Iguazu Falls?

Iguazu Falls are one of the largest waterfall systems in the world.  It is spread out over two miles, on the border of the Argentine province of Misiones and the Brazilian state of Paraná.

Which side is better to view Iguazu Falls?

When viewed from Brazil, the natural scenery is elegant and dashing. However, Argentina’s side has more activities and tours available.

Can you visit both sides of Iguazu Falls in one day?

Yes, it’s possible to see both sides of Iguazu Falls in one day . If setting out to see both the Argentian and Brazilian sides of Iguazu Falls in one day, be prepared for a busy day. For a more relaxing and thorough experience, splitting each side into individual days is recommended.

In fact, there are tours of both sides over a 2-day period.  

Getting from one side to another takes about 1-2 hours, depending on the season and traffic. November through March is the busy season and can take up to 2 hours to clear customs. 

When driving from Brazil to Argentina, your car must have a Carta Verde (green card), as well as your passport. If you prefer not to drive, you can take a bus , which honestly has lackluster reviews, or use a tour /transport company.

The best way to get to/from Iguazu Falls

The best way to get to Iguazu Falls from Brazil is to fly to Foz do Iguazu International Airport (IGU). It’s conveniently located just five minutes from the Falls on Brazil’s side and a thirty-five minutes drive to Iguazu Falls from Argentina’s side (not taking traffic into consideration.) Airports from both Sao Paulo and Rio offer multiple direct flights to IGU. 

Things to do in Iguazu Falls

As the area’s main feature, you must see the Iguazu Falls. As previously mentioned, the Brazil side is known to be the most beautiful side while most tours and activities occur on the Argentina side. 

A tour of the Argentina side of Iguazu Falls usually involves visiting the Upper Circuit, Lower Circuit, and Devil’s Throat, which offers panoramic views of the waterfalls and the jungle, as well as the spectacular sight of the plume of mist. Be prepared to do some walking, as the views are worth every step. Some tours include an optional boat ride for thrill-seekers. 

From Brazil’s side of Iguazu Falls, bus tours typically include visits to the panoramic terrace and the lower trail, where visitors can experience the power of the falls at the base. For the more adventurous traveler, take a helicopter r ide for an unparallel view of both sides. 

For individuals who prefer to explore the waterfall on their own, you can visit both Parque Nacional Iguazu (Argentina side) and Parque das Aves (Brazil side) without a tour.

👉🏽 Iguazu Falls Tour Options 👈🏽

✔️ 1 Day Brazil and Argentina Tour ✔️

✔️ 2 Day Brazil and Argentina Tour ✔️

✔️ Brazil Tour ✔️

✔️ Brazil Helicopter Tour ✔️

✔️ Argentina Tour with Optional Boat Ride ✔️

Where to stay in Iguazu Falls

There are a variety of lodging options on both the Brazil and Argentina sides. I recommend choosing which side best suits your itinerary. If you desire to be near activities outside of Iguazu Falls, the Argentinian side is the best option.

Iguazu Falls, Argentina Hotel 

To maximize your family experiences around Iguazu Falls, stay at the Jasy Hotel on the Argentine side, just within walking distance of the amazing scenery. If you prefer to take in the relaxing views of the jungle, Selvaje Lodge Iguazu is a wonderful option.  

Iguazu Falls, Brazil Hotel 

Sanma Hotel By Nobile is the perfect home, away from home. This hotel offers excellent services and first-class accommodations. The hotel is ideal if you want to focus entirely on experiencing every deep refreshing breath of your interaction with the Iguazu Falls, as there are no other activities aside from visiting the falls.

 Day 7-10: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil Trip Itinerary

Rio is the perfect finish to your 10-day Brazil itinerary due to its unique blend of nature and culture. Some must-dos during your stay in Rio are visiting the World Wonder, Christ the Redeemer, taking a boat ride on the Guanabara River, and enjoying the Brazilian beach culture. Whatever you decide to do in Rio, you’re subject to have an amazing time. 

Check out the first section, the  7-day Brazil itinerary for more suggestions on things to do in Rio de Janeiro. 

Brazil Trip Itinerary: Brazil 2 Week Itinerary

This Brazil 2 Week itinerary ensures that you and your family get to sample some of the most thrilling and unique experiences that Brazil has to offer. The journey explores popular destinations within the state of Rio de Janeiro as well as the metropolitan of Sao Paulo. 

Itinerary #3

2-weeks in brazil: rio de janeiro, ilha grande, paraty, sao paulo, day 1-3: rio de janeiro, brazil trip itinerary .

During this two-week Brazil itinerary, it’s recommended to experience the culture and vibrant nature of Rio.  From going to the various restaurants, hanging out on Cocacabana or Ipanama Beach, or experiencing the Rio nightlife, this is the part of the itinerary to let loose and take in Brazil’s vibrant culture. Also be sure to check out the world wonder, Christ the Redeemer. 

If you don’t get the opportunity to do a boat ride or nature hike, that’s okay as both Ilha Grande and Paraty offer water and hiking adventures. 

Day 4-6: Ilha Grande, Brazil Trip Itinerary 

On your first two days in the Ilha Grande, make the most of your family vacation by taking boat rides, seeing one of the best waterfalls in the region, and engaging in outdoor sports like hiking and snorkeling. Lastly, no vacation in the town would be complete without a relaxing moment on one of the top beaches. 

Is Ilha Grande worth visiting?

Ilha Grande offers the complete package for a family vacation if you love nature. Beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, and crystal-clear waters are some of the state’s most popular attractions. Hiking, snorkeling, and swimming are among the activities you can enjoy in the lustrous Brazilian state.

What’s the best way to get to Ilha Grande?

Ilha Grande is a car-free island. In order to reach the island you can either take the Rodoviaria bus or a shared transportation van from Rio to the Conceiço de Jacare port where you can take the ferry to Abraao for twenty minutes. The ferry offers frequent trips throughout the day, so you won’t miss out on any fun activities on the island.

If you prefer all of the logistics to be done for you, choose a transportation company that includes land and sea transportation services . 

Things to do in Ilha Grande

Outdoor adventure awaits you in Ilha Grande. 

Your vacation to Ilha Grande is not complete if you have not visited two of the most outstanding beaches in all of Brazil; Lopes Mendes and Lagoa Azul. Both beaches have spectacular views of the crystal-clear ocean water. 

Aracatiba is another quaint and quiet beach

Not only does Ilha Grande offer some of the most beautiful beaches, but the hiking is spectacular. Experience a private hike or a midnight hike through the historical features of the island. If hiking is on your Brazil itinerary be sure to hike to the most visited waterfall in Ilha Grande, Feiticerira Waterfall.

Please note the hike to Feiticerira Waterfall is considered a bit challenging due to the dirt roads and some inclines and declines. On average it could take between 90-120 minutes to complete, depending on the person.

The good news is it’s worth every step as the waterfall is beautiful and you can bathe in it upon your arrival (although the water can be a bit cold.) Plus, if you continue the path to the public beach, there is an option to take a taxi boat for your return.

If you’re looking for an easy hike, lagoa verde (green lagoon) is a nice place to take an easy hike and hang out on the water. It’s a great addition to your Brazilian itinerary with children.

If you have little ones in tow, these hiking tips will help make the experience more pleasing for everyone.

👉🏽 Hikes in Ilha Grande 👈🏽 ✔️ Private Hike ✔️ ✔️ Midnight Hike ✔️

Where to Stay in Ilha Grande

Granted, Ilha Grande is no match for the lush apartments and hotels in Rio or even Sao Paulo. Nevertheless, the island makes up for what it lacks in modern styles with authentic, fresh, and serene environments.

Vila do Abraao is the island’s main village and hosts many hotels, guesthouses, and vacation rentals. The quaint town has several shops and restaurants within close proximity. Check out Vila Parnaiba for an ideal experience in the area.

Day 7-10: Paraty, Brazil Trip Itinerary 

Paraty is perfect for those seeking to hike, explore the sites, and enjoy a relaxed moment at the beach. When visiting Paraty, be prepared to take it slow and take in the beauty this quaint town has to offer. 

Is Paraty worth visiting?

Yes! Whether you are a nature enthusiast or just a lover of outdoor scenes, Paraty is a treasure, allowing you to experience intimate moments with beautiful waterfalls and beaches.

You will also be privileged to witness how sunrise and sunset create an aura of deep calm and serenity as the cobblestone streets naturally blend in with the scenic beauty of the colonial town.

What’s the best way to get to Paraty

Much like Ilha Grande, Paraty is not accessible by plane, at least not directly. The closest airport to Paraty is the Rio de Janeiro-Galeao International Airport, which means you still have to take a bus or a car to the historic town.

Despite the small challenge in air travel, you can still make the most of your Brazil vacation by taking bus and boat transfers from neighboring towns such as Angra dos Reis, Ilha Grande, and Ilhabela. The transport from Ilha Grande is about 2 hours while the transport from Rio is around 90 minutes. 

Things to do in Paraty

If you are adventurous, you will find a lot of activities to do in Paraty.

Paraty is home to numerous waterfalls.

Two must-visit waterfalls are Cachoeira do Toboga and Cachoeira da Pedra Branca. These waterfalls bring out your inner kid as they have natural water slides. Perfect for an adventurous family vacation. 

Similar to Ilha Grande, you can’t come to Paraty without exploring its great beaches. There are plenty of beaches where you and your family can enjoy various water sports like boat riding, swimming, etc.

If you’re traveling with kids to Paraty, Jabaquara Beach is a great option as it’s easily accessible, the tides are low, and they have kiosks that sell food, snacks, and drinks. 

Most other beaches in the area are a little further from the city, and you may have to take a hike, bus, or boat to access them. But the views are worth it!

Some of the top options are Praia do Rosa, Praia do Sono, Praia de Antigos, which is close to Praia do Sono, and São Gonçalo, one of the most beautiful beaches in Paraty. 

For those who want activities outside of nature, Paraty also offers historic city tours and Alambique, a cachaca distillery, to name a few. 

Where to Stay in Paraty

Paraty offers a wide range of lodging, from budget-friendly, to luxurious, as well as beachfront hotels. The ultimate choice depends on your budget and personal preferences. 

Paraty, Brazil Mid-Tier Hotel

Calamar Flats Paraty is a modern, beachfront boutique hotel that offers rooms with views of the sea or mountains. The rooms are actually apartments that have a kitchen and living room. And the pool and garden area are gorgeous. 

Paraty, Brazil Luxury

Casa Turquesa – Maison D ́Hôtes is the epitome of luxury and detailed service. Located in the heart of the quaint town of Paraty, the staff of this boutique hotel treats guests like both family and royalty. You will not be disappointed to stay here; the reviews speak for themselves. 

Day 11-14: São Paulo, Brazil Trip Itinerary 

You will be able to explore great artworks, art scenes, grand architecture, and the general culture of the people in the city the moment you land in the metropolitan mega city. Be sure to get a taste of Sao Paulo’s wonderful food and nightlife scene. 

Reference the 7-day Brazil itinerary above to get more details on things to do in Sao Paulo. 

Activities that can be included in most Brazil Itineraries

Brazil has such a unique culture that embodies the vibrance and beauty of the country. It would be a miss not to add at least one of the following activities to your Brazil itinerary. Personally, my family did all of the below as we wanted to get as much of a local and cultural experience as possible. 

Luckily, most major cities, especially Sao Paulo, Salvador, and Rio offer these types of cultural experiences. 

Brazilian Cooking Class

Brazil is home to many unique and delicious dishes. Why not try your hand at preparing a Brazilian dish while exploring your Brazil itinerary? Plus, it gives you an experience with a local. 

Our boys LOVE to cook, so it was a perfect experience for our family. Our class was located at the home of a local chef, coordinated by our Salvador, Bahia tour guide Sayuri.

In our Brazilian cooking class, we made a traditional Brazilian appetizer made with shredded cheese and carrots wrapped in a cassava flour “wrap” of sorts. The boys were the sous chef with this dish as they shredded the cheese and carrots. 

The adults focused on making the moqueca, a Brazilian fish stew. The fish was already cut so all the adults needed to do was slice the vegetables,  layer them on top of the fish, and pour the freshly made coconut milk on top. 

After adding a little salt and pepper and boiling the dish, magic was created! The meal was delicious, but the opportunity to spend time with a local Brazilian, in their home, was priceless!

Samba and Afro-Brazilian Dance

This class was not only fun but it’s a challenge! 

With Samba you may think you got the moves while the instructor slowly explained each step. However, when he put those moves to the actual beat…help me!

The Afro-Brazilian dance moves were not as challenging, but they were still a great workout. The boys really enjoyed “dancing” to these songs and playing the drums. 

This class is perfect for those who love music and dance. 

An Afro-Brazilian martial art that combines an element of dance and more into its practice. 

My boys are at the stage where they love to kick and move, so this capoeira class was perfect. It taught them not only how to make the movements but about body and mind control and when to choose to use these movements. 

If you enjoy moving your body in unique ways while learning about other cultures, a capoeira class is a must-add to your Brazil itinerary. 

Conclusion: Brazil Trip Itinerary 

Brazil is the 5th largest country in the world, offering an unlimited amount of things to do and destinations to explore. Therefore, one could literally spend months and years exploring cities in Brazil and not get to see everything.

However, these three Brazil itineraries: 7 days, 10 days, and 14 days, will give you and your family an excellent taste and variety of what this amazing country has to offer while you’re on vacation. Don’t hesitate to mix and match itineraries and make your Brazil vacation your own. 

Whatever you choose to do while in Brazil will leave you wanting to return to explore more of this unique and naturally beautiful country.  

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Cheap flights to Brazil from $49

This is the cheapest round-trip flight price found by a momondo user in the last 72 hours by searching for a flight to brazil departing on 6/5. fares may change, and may not be available for all flights or travel dates. click the price to refresh the search for this deal..

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Cheap Brazil flight deals and tips

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Brazil is full of notable places to explore, many with significant historical value to the region and the world. Some of the most popular landmarks in Brazil are Copacabana Beach, Praia de Ipanema, Praia da Barra da Tijuca, and Allianz Parque, among many more.

What is the best airport to land at to visit Copacabana Beach?

When visiting Copacabana Beach in Rio de Janeiro, the closest airport is Rio de Janeiro Santos Dumont Airport.

What is the most popular airport in Brazil to fly to?

17% of our momondo users traveling to Brazil in the past year chose to fly into Sao Paulo Guarulhos Intl in the past year, making it the most popular airport in Brazil. The Sao Paulo Guarulhos Intl airport serves the city of Sao Paulo.

How much are flights to Brazil?

Flights to Brazil have been found on momondo for as low as $221 per ticket recently. However, the average price tends to be $1,090 and anything for $944 or less is a good deal. $3,886 is the most expensive flight we’ve seen in the past week, though you may be able to avoid this price depending on what airport you fly from, what airline you choose, and how far in advance you book your flights.

What is the best day of the week to fly to Brazil?

The best day of the week to fly to Brazil is Tuesday due to prices being at their lowest. Flying out on a Monday should be a backup plan since this day tends to be less expensive as well. Saturday, on the other hand, is the most expensive day to fly to Brazil.

Where is it cheapest to fly into Brazil?

Manaus Eduardo Gomes Intl airport in Manaus has the cheapest flights when visiting Brazil, with an average airfare of $221. Belo Horizonte Tancredo Neves Intl airport in Belo Horizonte is the second cheapest destination in Brazil, with an average airfare of $231.

When did momondo last update prices for flights to Brazil?

Prices for flights to Brazil were last updated today.

How many operators does momondo search for flights to Brazil?

As of April 2024, there are 40 operators available to choose from for flights to Brazil.

How old do you have to be to fly to Brazil?

The minimum age for a child to fly alone is five, but airlines that offer an unaccompanied minor (UNMR) service may have their own age limitations. Flight duration, scheduling, and layovers are among the considerations that may influence age limits. We recommend that you double-check with the airline you are booking with for travel to Brazil.

What documentation or ID do you need to fly to Brazil?

The travel and health documents you'll need for your trip to Brazil may differ based on your itinerary and personal situation. Typically, you should have several documents on hand, such as a national ID card or driver's license and a passport that is valid for six months after your intended arrival at Brazil. It is always advisable to seek advice from your airline or a trusted third party, such as IATA.

Recent flights found to popular cities in Brazil

Find flights to these popular cities in brazil from your nearest airport., flights to rio de janeiro, flights to belo horizonte, flights to salvador, flights to florianopolis, flights to brasilia, cheapest flight routes to brazil, these routes have the cheapest flights to brazil found by momondo users in united states, best things to do and see in brazil, how long does it take to fly to brazil.

The time that it will take you to travel to cities and airports on flights to Brazil is going to be somewhat different depending on your departure point in the United States and where you plan on traveling to in Brazil. As an example, you can travel on Brazil flights from John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) to Sao Paulo Guarulhos International (GRU) in about 9h and 50min. If you will be departing on cheap flights from Chicago O' Hare International Airport (ORD) you can travel to Sao Paulo Guarulhos International in about 10h and 15min. If you have a ticket to leave from the West Coast of the United States from an airport such as Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) you should plan on a travel time of around 14h and 15min by plane.

Are there any direct flights that travel to Brazil from the US?

There are two different airports in Brazil where you can take direct flights from the United States. American Airlines offers a nonstop flight that travels from Miami International Airport (MIA) with a landing at Rio De Janeiro International (GIG). There are several airports in the United States that offer direct service to Sao Paulo Guarulhos International. GOL Airlines offers a direct flight that takes off from John F. Kennedy International Airport and United Airlines offers a nonstop flight that departs from Chicago O' Hare International Airport. Azul Airlines offers a nonstop flight from Fort Lauderdale International (FLL), Delta Airlines offers a nonstop from Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (ATL), American Airlines offers a nonstop from Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), and Azul Airlines offers a direct flight from George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH).

What is the best way to travel around Brazil?

Two of the most popular and populous destinations in Brazil are Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo. Rio de Janeiro has a reputation for plenty of beach fun and São Paulo is a very cosmopolitan city that offers many reasons for business travelers to make the trip to the city. If you are traveling to Brazil and you need to travel between these two cities after your arrival there are quite a few flight options available including nonstop service aboard GOL Airlines, LATAM Airlines, and Azul Airlines that can all make the trip between these two cities in just a little over 1h. Another option is to travel by one of five different providers that offer bus service between these two cities including Brasileiro and Kaissara that make the trip between the two cities in about 6h and 30min and offer quite a few great amenities for travelers such as reclining seats, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi. One final option when you get to Brazil is a car rental where you can drive on your own schedule between the two cities. Most roads between these two major cities will be in good condition although you can often find roads that are not paved as you get off the main highway so keep that in mind. Most road signs will follow international standards but there can be variations to this and you may find signs written in Portuguese.

Does a US citizen need a passport or visa to fly to Brazil?

If you are planning on traveling to Brazil as a citizen of the United States you will need a passport that is valid on the date of your entry into Brazil. Your passport must contain one blank page for an entry stamp that you will get from immigration officials in Brazil. For any citizen of the United States that is traveling to Brazil without the intention of establishing residence, you will not need a visa to travel to this country.

Useful information for finding Brazil flight deals

Learn about all of the flight booking features offered by momondo for free., how do i get price alerts for flights to brazil.

You can take advantage of momondo’s Price Alerts by first searching for your flights to Brazil . Flight offers will be shown to you in real-time. From there you can create a Price Alert by using our on-site widget.

How can I save money on flights to Brazil with momondo?

By using tools like our “Price Calendar”, you can see the best day to fly round-trip for your travels. Our “Price Forecast” tool uses AI to predict whether you should purchase or hold off on booking for potentially cheaper prices. Explore shows you all flight options from a city or airport to build your own unique adventure. The Discover blog also provides valuable insights for saving money while booking your experience. After searching you can toggle on “Price Alerts” to track prices for your desired flight and book at the ideal moment.

How does momondo find its flight prices?

We compare prices from 700+ competitors to help you find the price that works best for you. momondo operates in over 30 international markets, bringing you access to a wide range of fares and deals. Search for your travel using momondo for a diverse range of options from airlines and OTAs.

Why use momondo?

Why should i use momondo to find a flight deal to brazil.

It is quick and easy to find flights to Brazil on momondo. We search and return numerous flight options from various airlines and agents. You can then use our filters to narrow your search until you have found the most convenient flight to Brazil that suits you.

Can I find flights to Brazil with flexible booking policies on momondo?

momondo does allow users to show only those flights to Brazil which offer a flexible booking policy as well as other useful filters and features.

How can momondo help me find flights to Brazil?

Once you have performed a search in the form on the page, momondo provides useful filters and insights. We can show you the cheapest days and times to fly as well as filter your options to help you make an informed choice when booking flights to Brazil.

I’m not ready to book a flight to Brazil right now. Can momondo alert me if prices change?

Of course. momondo tracks the price of Brazil flights. All you need is a valid email address and we will do the rest; it is that quick and easy.

An easier way to manage your Brazil trip

We make it super easy to schedule, organize and travel with friends or family. trips is free — and available to use no matter where you book., big names and deals, filter for what you want, trusted and free, price alerts, find better results for your stay in brazil, fly into one of these airports located in brazil, complete your trip to brazil, get notified when prices go down, daily price changes in your inbox - only with price alerts..

Super Travel Review [2024]: Legit, or Still A Scam?

Whether traveling to Canada, Europe, or Asia, scavenging the web for the best options can be a bore. But that's where SuperTravel comes in. Not only do they claim to collate the best prices on the web, but they can provide you with options via text, Messenger, and WhatsApp. I break down everything you need to know, including if this business is legit. 

If you're a budget traveler, planning a trip can involve a lot of work. From finding cheap flights to navigating dreaded cancellations, a lot is involved. Especially if you want to keep things budget-friendly! 

We all get lost in the daydream of scoring a flight or panoramic hotel room for an affordable price. Even if you use this  guide to find cheap flights , you still have to invest time, energy, and effort. That's where SuperTravel comes in. Hallelujah! 

Boasting an online, easy-to-use platform and instant messaging, it all seems too good to be true. In this SuperTravel review, I'll dive into everything you need to know. If you're wondering about the company's history, how they manage to get such low prices, and whether or not it's worth it, look no further. 

From raved-about reviews to comments about legitimacy, I'll look at just how reliable SuperTravel is. Let's roll! 

What Is SuperTravel?

SuperTravel ,  previously known as SnapTravel, might have caught your attention recently. The platform catches your eye with its dashing marketing schemes, inarguably irresistible hotel deals, and easy-to-use interface. 

As a savvy traveler, I know a good deal when I see one. Having lived in Europe for over 5 years, I've skimmed the ins and outs of reservations, last-minute trips, and the best deals. 

Based on my experience scavenging online, I know that the best deals sometimes come with hidden costs. Unfortunately, travel deals have many risks, including extra baggage costs or late check-in fees.

So, before you take the plunge into SuperTravel's website, here's everything you need to know. Let me unmask the truth: Is SuperTravel legit? Let's find out. 

Is It Different From SnapTravel?

SnapTravel  was founded in 2016 to get travel lovers the best deals possible. Originally branded as a "travel agent over messaging," they offer everything from flights and promotions to hotels and some of the most epic discounts. 

SuperTravel is easily accessible via Messenger, SMS, and WhatsApp, too. SuperTravel is the rebranded version of SnapTravel, boasting a change in logo and name. Regarding what the company offers, logistics are the same. 

SnapTravel vs. SuperTravel: What Are the Main Changes?

Aside from marketing, the company has promised no significant differences in what's on offer. SuperTravel is a legitimate business that offers incredible hotels, travel deals, credits, points and escapes to some of the  world's cheapest places to travel . 

Above all, they claim to have the most extensive selection of affordable hotels online, making it a must-have for budget travelers and backpackers. 

Some claim that the rebranding results from all the negative backlash and complaints online. People have said that the company decided to implement a change due to the lack of positive customer reviews. 

Key Features of SuperTravel

So, now that you know about SuperTravel, it's time to dive into how to score low prices, hotel bookings, and sweet deals. To help you better understand how to get the best rates, here's a basic breakdown of how to use SuperTravel. 

If you're flexible and haven't secured a destination, scroll down to the bottom of SuperTravel's webpage. From here, you can look through the hotel deals by city or destination. With a user-friendly interface, it's easy to find these deals online. 

This is one of the best ways to secure good deals before you even begin messaging with SuperTravel. One thing to note is that you can't actually book online. You must access the travel deals through SMS, Facebook Messenger, or WhatsApp. 

You can receive supertravel promo codes and supertravel discounts via the support team on these 3 platforms. All bookings must be made through the online travel agency. You can also talk with live agents to secure VIP upgrades and platinum-level rewards. 

SuperTravel Benefits & Drawbacks

There are a handful of benefits of SuperTravel, including having one of the most extensive selections of affordable hotels. If you're planning a trip to popular places like London, Los Angeles, or New York, this could save you a ton of money. 

The vacation packages don't offer life-changing rewards. Still, they boast a convenience you can't get from in-person travel agencies. Everything is via direct messaging, making it quick, effortless, and hassle-free. 

With professional customer service, this online travel agency has changed its reputation. Compared to its business history, the transparency report is improved, and the company stands out regarding competitive prices.

If you're wondering why SuperTravel coupons are so affordable, it may have you thinking about the company's legitimacy. Thanks to SuperTravel's connections in the travel industry, the booking engine boasts private contract rates, bulk fares, and a consolidator inventory that isn't available to the public. 

One thing to note is that transparent pricing isn't always on board, as hidden fees can be involved. 

Another factor to consider is that while your queries will be answered from a "half-bot, half-human," as SuperTravel puts it, it may sometimes be frustrating. 

Considering that SuperTravel is the middleman, they only collect your payment and make your booking. So, if something goes wrong at the hotel, they are not liable to help you directly. 

What I Thought When Using SuperTravel

For my recent trip to Sardinia, I messaged SuperTravel to see if they could score me some discount deals. The reply was speedy, direct, and straightforward but lacked a human touch. 

They did, however, find top-choice hotels and flights that wouldn't break my bank account, and, in no time. As I was planning a last-minute trip, I was pleased with the results. 

What Are Others Saying Since SuperTravel's Rebrand?

SuperTravel has an average rating of 4.9/5 stars on  Trustpilot . Based on SuperTravel reviews, the flight deals service does live up to all the hype. Boasting reviews on exclusive deals at budget-friendly rates, customers rave about the pocket-friendly prices. 

Is SuperTravel Worth It?

Yes, if you're a budget traveler or backpacker who doesn't want to spend money with a travel agency or time looking on the web, SuperTravel is worth it. It's free and done via text, WhatsApp, and Messenger, making it a convenient option. 

My Rating: 4.1/5

• It's free
• Convenience through direct messaging apps 
• Affordable hotel and flight deals 
• Easy-to-use platform 
• Hidden fees
• "Half-bot, half-human" support 
• No liability if something goes wrong 

Plan Your Travels Now!

Now that you're up to speed on SuperTravel, you can start to craft your ideal travel experience for you, your family, and your friends.

Disclosure : Pilot is supported by our community. We may earn a small commission fee with affiliate links on our website. All reviews and recommendations are independent and do not reflect the official view of Pilot.

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Very welcoming and helpful

Very welcoming and helpful from the moment we arrived and because our room was ready they let us check in early which was excellent. They gave us a welcome refreshment and explained everything we wanted to know. Our room was spotless and bright and the bed was really comfortable. We had some drinks at the bar when we returned from our night out and they have a decent selection to choose from. After a great nights sleep we had breakfast which was enjoyable and although the fruit juice dispenser had broken down there was plenty other beverages to go around. All the staff we had dealings with were polite and pleasant and I wouldn't hesitate to stay here again. We had a very enjoyable stay at the Moxy.

Date of experience : April 03, 2024

Actually appreciate the updates as this…

Actually appreciate the updates as this situation was unfold and being resolved. Thank you for your commitment to resolving this for me. I am homeless and I appreciate you understanding that this was a need-based on practice and integrity. Thank you, God bless you.

Date of experience : April 05, 2024

The hotel said that Super Travel didn’t…

The hotel said that Super Travel didn’t pay for the room because the form of payment they tried to use was declined. After many many phone calls and lots and lots of waiting on hold for a representative, I finally got a refund about a month later. NEVER EVER USE THEM

Date of experience : May 19, 2023

Reply from Super.com

Hi Kevin, Thank you for bringing this to our attention. We recognize that, as a third-party booking platform, there are instances in the travel industry that may fall outside our direct control. Rest assured, we've established robust procedures to minimize any inconvenience these might cause to our valued customers. To ensure we can assist you effectively, could you please provide your reservation ID and the email address linked to your booking? This information is key to our team's ability to promptly investigate and address your specific situation. Your understanding and cooperation are greatly appreciated as we continually strive to enhance our services.

This company is deceptive in their…

This company is deceptive in their business practices. I booked a room one time and they used my card info without permission to enroll me in a monthly membership. I tried to call them but you can never get through. It has been 4 months now and they continuously try to bill me for membership. They have attempted at least 25 times. I am glad I have an applecard that immediately recognizes it is a fraudulent charge and declines the charge. I would not use this company ever

Date of experience : January 19, 2024

Hi Mark, Thank you for bringing this to our attention. You may have accidentally signed up for our optional Super+ membership program during a reservation process. We cannot automatically sign you up. The membership does come with various benefits, including Cash Advance, Credit building, and up to 10% Cashback on travel. However, if you've decided not to continue with the membership, we are more than willing to process a refund, as our primary goal is to ensure our customers' satisfaction. To initiate the cancellation process you can simply follow the steps in this Helpdesk article: https://help.super.com/support/solutions/articles/155000001440-how-do-i-cancel-my-super-membership- For further assistance, you can contact our dedicated team. at +1-877-376-2710, available Monday through Friday, from 8 AM to 7 PM, EST, or by sending an email at email [email protected]. We trust this clarifies matters for you.

Great experience in getting my booking…

Great experience in getting my booking done and quick response to my email inquiry. I highly recommend them and will use them again in the future.

Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge/Sevierville Trips

I have stayed at several places throughout my time out here and super has given the best rates majority of the time. Super is so quick and easy to utilize. They also have discounts available at times on top of their already cheaper prices.

Date of experience : April 01, 2024

Awesome experience with super.com

First time using Super as a 3rd party to book a hotel room. I had a great experience, super easy to book through. Had a better rate than the other major 3rd party options and got exactly what I requested and paid for. I just hope they don't get greedy like the other guys and start jacking up their rates to get more money.

Date of experience : March 25, 2024

It was so easy to bookgreat experience with super.com i…

It was so easy to book with super.com i would recommend this company i had no problems checking into my hotel so yeah great experience i stayed at the Moxy Edinburgh Airport they contacted me right after i booked through WhatsApp so all the info you need

Date of experience : March 31, 2024

Help during difficult time

I had to cancel my reservation due to a medical emergency. The support and response I received was exceptional. Thank you for your help in a difficult time. Cheers.

Super.com is TRASH STAY AWAY consider…

Super.com is TRASH STAY AWAY consider YOURSELF WARNED!!! When I first got the card it was FREE years ago. NOW they charge YOU $14.99 A MONTH FOR NOTHING BUT AGGRAVATION!!!!!!! NO LIVE CUSTOMER SERVICE.

Hi Ernest, Thank you for bringing this to our attention. It's possible that you inadvertently signed up for the Super+ membership. We cannot automatically sign you up. The membership does come with various benefits, including Cash Advance, Credit building, and up to 10% Cashback on travel. However, if you've decided not to continue with the membership, we are more than willing to process a refund, as our primary goal is to ensure our customers' satisfaction. To initiate the cancellation process you can simply follow the steps in this Helpdesk article: https://help.super.com/support/solutions/articles/155000001440-how-do-i-cancel-my-super-membership- You may also call our Customer Care team at +1 (844) 461-2577. They are available Monday to Friday, from 8AM to 7PM, EST. We're here to assist you in the best way possible.

Turning out to be a scam

This company was issued money by the hotel to give to me in form of a refund secondary to me having problems with my room. Although the company accepted the hotel’s funds, they are still refusing to issue my refund! What kind of scam is this?

Date of experience : April 02, 2024

Hi Ei, Hi Elysia, We appreciate your understanding regarding your refund request. Although our initial attempt to secure an exception was not successful, we are dedicated to exploring potential solutions. It's crucial to note that our ability to override the decision is limited. If you've directly communicated with the accommodation through written correspondence, kindly gather all relevant details, including the staff member's name and position who approved your request. Once you've obtained approval, please initiate the cancellation process by visiting: go.super.com/amend and following the provided prompts. Your proactive engagement in this process will facilitate a smoother resolution, and we are here to assist you throughout.

Super was super

Great experience with booking a hotel in Gent. Good price and easy, user-friendly platform to make the reservation.

Booked our trip to Arizona about 3…

Booked our trip to Arizona about 3 months ago on super.com and we were very impressed with the ease in which we were able to get our room. We arrived a little early and was offered a suit for just a few dollars more a night. Thanks for checking back about our experience.

Date of experience : March 29, 2024

Great prices and easy to use platform

Great prices and easy to use platform! Website made booking our vacation fast and affordable. Will definitely use again and recommend to all my friends and family.

Date of experience : March 27, 2024

It goes easy

It goes easy, evrything is arranged , so good. I just would like to receive an invoice, that is no critism, but a question.

Date of experience : March 18, 2024

I made a booking with Super.com Hotels…

I made a booking with Super.com Hotels after being guided there from Trivago. I received an invoice with a booking number on it but when I checked with the hotel they have no record. we are travelling from Australia to Turkey for a wedding and I am really concerned that we'll get there and there wont be a room for us. I've tried emailing Super.com and have had no reply or acknowledgement. They had no problem accepting my payment but have no follow up support. At this point I will try to get my money back but I'm not hopeful. My suggestion is stay right away from Super.com.

Hi Greg, Thank you for bringing this to our attention. We understand the challenges you faced with your reservation, and we apologize for any inconvenience caused. In the dynamic travel industry, unforeseen situations may arise that are beyond our control as a third-party booking site. Despite these challenges, we are committed to minimizing any negative impact on our valued customers. This matter has been escalated to our Support team who is reaching out to the accommodation and travel partner. They will follow up with you as soon as possible.

Booked a hotel in Barbados (Yellow…

Booked a hotel in Barbados (Yellow Bird), and paid for the all inclusive option. Got to the hotel, they don't do, and never have offered all inclusive. Super tried to blame it on the hotel, not honouring its commitment, but totally their fault, and would not reimburse the extra cost. Do not give them your business, they are crooks.

Date of experience : March 11, 2024

Hi Andrew, We understand you might have reservations about our services, but we can assure our credibility is affirmed by our features in many reputable publications. We recognize that, as a third-party booking platform, there are instances in the travel industry that may fall outside our direct control. Rest assured; we've established robust procedures to minimize any inconvenience these might cause to our valued customers. We've checked our records and see that our Support team is currently working to resolve this as soon as possible. They will follow up with you as soon as possible. We appreciate your understanding in this matter.

Over all the companies to compete over…

Over all the companies to compete over hotels super.com quote was great. I would gladly recommend friends and family to use the site.

Date of experience : March 30, 2024

Booking was easy and they saved us…

Booking was easy and they saved us quite a bit of money. We have used this site three times and never had an issue. Granted, we have never had a reason to have an issue (cancellation, stayed in questionable hotel).

Date of experience : March 23, 2024

Booking was easy

Booking was easy. The rate was great and check in was simple. I didn’t run into any issues so I have no complaints.