Brazil is a country of epic scale and immense diversity, offering an intoxicating mix of lively culture, breathtaking nature, and iconic landmarks. It’s the largest country in South America, and its sheer size means there’s something to captivate every traveler, from the thunderous power of its waterfalls to the hypnotic rhythm of its music.
Major Destinations and Experiences
- Rio de Janeiro: Rio is the most popular tourist destination in Brazil, famous for its incredible natural setting. The city is a masterpiece of urban planning and natural beauty. You can take a cable car up Sugarloaf Mountain for a panoramic view of the city and its beaches or visit the colossal statue of Christ the Redeemer at the top of Corcovado Mountain. Rio’s famous beaches, Copacabana and Ipanema, are perfect for sunbathing, people-watching, and enjoying a chilled caipirinha 🍹. The city is also the heart of Brazil’s legendary Carnival, a dazzling display of samba, vibrant costumes, and street parties.
- Iguaçu Falls: On the border with Argentina and Paraguay, Iguaçu Falls is one of the most spectacular waterfalls on Earth. This natural wonder is composed of 275 individual waterfalls, including the powerful Devil’s Throat. The Brazilian side offers panoramic views of the entire system, while the surrounding national park is a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to over 1,000 species of birds and mammals.
- Amazon Rainforest: Brazil is home to 60% of the Amazon Rainforest, the world’s largest tropical rainforest and most biodiverse region. A trip to the Amazon, often departing from the city of Manaus, offers a chance to explore a vast ecosystem via riverboat tours, spot exotic wildlife, and stay in remote jungle lodges.
- The Pantanal: Considered the best place for wildlife viewing in South America, the Pantanal is the world’s largest tropical wetland. Its open landscapes and sparse vegetation make it easier to spot animals than in the dense Amazon. It has the highest density of jaguars in the world, and you can also see capybaras, caimans, giant otters, and a huge variety of birdlife.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Brazil depends on the region. For the beaches and cities, the hot and sunny summer months from December to March are ideal, especially if you want to experience Carnival. For the Amazon, the dry season from July to December is better for hiking, while the wet season allows for canoe trips into flooded forests. The best time to visit the Pantanal for wildlife spotting is during the dry season from April to October
