Brazil is one of the biggest and most diverse countries in the world in terms of its culture, nature and cuisine. There are so many picturesque destinations, buzzing cities and pristine natural wonders that make this country so amazing, but in this blog we try to narrow it down to our top 5:

Rio de Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro is known as the Cidade Maravilhosa (Marvelous City) and we couldn’t agree more! With its golden beaches, luscious green mountains and crystal-clear ocean – not forgetting its exciting nightlife – there’s no place like it and Rio is the perfect location to kick-start your Brazilian escapade. While there, head up the Pão de Açúcar or climb up to Christ the Redeemer (Cristo Redentor) for a breathtaking panorama of the city and local landscape. If you can, try to coincide your trip with the Carnival season in February to really experience the full energy, charisma and buzz of the city.

Iguaçu Falls

Sitting on the border between Brazil and Argentina, the Iguaçu Falls are the largest waterfall system in the world, and they sure are a site to behold! The long stretch of dramatic waterfalls, the Trilha das Cataratas, will leave you gobsmacked by the sheer beauty of mother nature and mesmerized by the powerful sound of crashing water. If you want a closer peek, jump on a boat to get even nearer to the falls – but don’t forget to bring your waterproof gear as you’ll get absolutely drenched! Top tip: whilst on the Brazilian side, be sure to head to the waterfalls as early as you can to catch the best lighting for photographs.

Lençóis Maranhenses National Park

Brazil is home to countless natural wonders, and one of the most spectacular is the Lençóis Maranhenses National Park. With an immense expanse of sand dunes and crystal-clear lagoons, visitors can go quad biking or horse riding deep into the park to find the most remote, pristine areas. Bring your swimming gear so that you can cool off in the lagoons after a long, hot journey and soak in the extraordinary scenery surrounding you.

Paraty

The colonial seaside town of Paraty was once a key export trade post, but its colonial charm has been impeccably preserved to this day. Sandwiched between jungle-covered mountains and crystal clear ocean water, Paraty is an idyllic destination with 65 islands, 300 beaches and plenty of character. Kayak along the coast to deserted beaches and mangroves, or soak up the town’s atmosphere by grabbing a pinga (cachaça) and mingling with locals.

Manaus

At just a short trip away from the Amazon rainforest, Manaus is the Brazilian gateway to one of the most biodiverse jungles in the world. Join one of the many river tours from the city to explore the black water canals and dense forestry in search of rare monkeys, anacondas, pink dolphins and much more. For a particularly eye-opening experience, visit one of the numerous indigenous communities to discover their way of life and customs.

Honourable mentions: São Paulo, Fernando de Noronha & Pantanal

Plans to visit Brazil in 2023? Brush up on your Portuguese or pick up essential travel language with a Portuguese course at IH London. Find out more about our upcoming online and face-to-face courses here.