Photo: Contiki
Magical nature, cities thrumming with life, and a true cultural melting pot: Brazil is a bucket list destination for millions, and it’s not hard to see why. You can trek through the astounding Amazon, lounge on Rio de Janeiro’s famous beaches, or indulge in retail therapy in São Paulo, so there really is something for everyone. So much so, that coming up with a list of the best things to do in Brazil can lead to some serious choice fatigue.
If you’re planning your Brazil adventure and feeling a bit overwhelmed at all the options, then have no fear. We’ve compiled this list of the best Brazil attractions so that you can focus on having a great time!
1. Gaze up at Christ the Redeemer
If you ask anyone what to do in Brazil, chances are Christ the Redeemer will be one of the first things mentioned. It takes something special to be the main attraction in a country that’s home to shimmering rainforests and idyllic shorelines, but this iconic statue manages to do just that.
Overlooking Rio, the massive sculpture has loomed over Brazil’s biggest coastal settlement for nearly a century, and can be viewed from all over the city. It’s easy to get to the foot of the attraction, if you want a close-up look – which you’ll get on our Argentina and Brazil highlights tour.
Image source:Contiki
2. Take in the might of Iguazu Falls
Formed of nearly 300 separate cascades, this massive waterfall sits on the border with Argentina, drawing crowds on both sides. The phrase awe-inspiring gets thrown around a lot, but this natural feature really does leave you speechless with its sheer power and beauty. There’s a reason this site plays a prominent part in our virtual Brazil and Argentina tour.
3. Be amazed on an Amazon Trek
Known as the lungs of the earth, the Amazon Rainforest covers huge swathes of South America and is home to an astonishing number of different plant, animal, and insect species. There are countless ethical and sustainable ways to safely explore the natural wonderland, so you can have a magnificent experience tailored to your needs and fitness levels. Just make sure you do your research, because this terrain requires preparedness – but it will reward you with unforgettable experiences.
4. Watch a game at the Maracanã
Christ the Redeemer may pay homage to Brazil’s strong Catholic presence, but football is something else that is almost considered a religion in the country. So, what better way to get to grips with the culture than attending a game at this huge, famous stadium. Multiple Rio teams play here, so there are games on throughout the season. One of the best things to do in Brazil, and if we’re being honest, going to a football game is a key experience in any Ultimate South America itinerary.
Image source:AXP Photography / unsplash
5. Lounge on idyllic Ilha Grande
If you’re looking for a more serene beach experience than the bustle of the Copacabana, Ilha Grande might be your speed. There’s still plenty happening on this picturesque island that’s easily accessible from Rio, but you can also escape into calm inlets, catch some waves, or even hike through the shaded paths that criss-cross this landmass. Stay the night, or make it a day trip from the big city: either is possible.
6. Spend time in colonial Belem
Pará’s capital is a perfect blend of coastal and cultural. Both on the sea and at the edge of the Amazon, the old town is home to charming colonial architecture, but it’s not just some quaint little city. There’s a phenomenal ecological park to explore, a gorgeous opera house to marvel at, a historic train station so you can get lost in the past, and more. What might begin as a flying visit could very well become a week or more in this charming spot.
7. Ascend to the top of Sugarloaf Mountain
Taking the cable car to the top of this celebrated geological feature might feel a little bit overdone as something to do in Brazil, but once you’re at the top you’ll realise why it’s so popular. Providing stunning views of Rio, the mountain itself is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so if you like visiting those you can tick another one off your list. When it comes to tourist sites in Brazil, there are few that live up to the hype as well as Sugarloaf Mountain.
Image source:Fellipe Ditadi / unsplash
8. Live the bohemian life in Santa Teresa
Art lovers and culture vultures will be in heaven in the Santa Teresa neighbourhood of Rio. The hilltop settlement is packed with cool creative institutions, including the Museu da Chácara do Céu and the unique Ruins Park. It’s also a brilliant place to wander through thanks to a plethora of artisanal stores and cool coffee shops and bars. And that’s not mentioning the stunning bay views scattered throughout the neighbourhood. A great spot for a South American Explorer to sit back and unwind before, during, or after their Contiki trip.
9. Eat your way through Brazil’s best meals
Feijoada, Churrasco, Bobó de Camarão, Brigadeiro, Moqueca…Brazil’s culinary scene is somewhat underrated in many parts of the world, but anyone who’s visited definitely still dreams about some of these mouthwatering delights. Add in the fact the country’s diverse climate means plenty of colourful and flavourful fresh fruit and veg, and foodies will be in wonderland.
Getting to grips with this special culinary culture is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Brazil, and if you’re looking for some inspiration, this list of 10 of the best Brazilian foods is a great place to start.
10. Get close to nature in magical Manaus
The capital of Amazonas is a feat of human ingenuity, located in the heart of the rainforest that gives the state its name. Manaus is famously known as the gateway to this vast, mysterious world, but is also home to attractions of its own like the magnificent Teatro Amazonas. With that said, there’s no doubt the best thing about the city is the fact it’s surrounded by one of the greatest natural gifts we have.
Image source:Bruno Melo / unsplash
11. Marvel at the rugged Chapada Diamantina National Park
Each section of Chapada Diamantina National Park is uniquely, indescribably beautiful. Misty waterfalls, awe-inspiring cave complexes, and cute towns that offer a glimmer of civilization are just some of the highlights in this massive natural treasure, which has to be seen to be believed. Definitely worth a few days of exploration, and undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Brazil, especially if you’re getting off the usual coastal tourist trail.
12. Be wowed by Parque Nacional dos Lençóis Maranhenses
A diverse coastal ecosystem made up of mangrove swamps, lagoons, and massive white sand dunes, Parque Nacional dos Lençóis Maranhenses can feel like an alien world, yet it’s also a big reminder of everything beautiful about mother nature. In terms of Brazil sights, there is truly nothing like it, which is saying something considering how diverse the natural highlights in the rest of the country are.
13. Meander through the impressive Mercado Municipal de São Paulo
São Paulo is a madhouse of a city, with little pockets of beautiful calm dotted throughout. Mercado Municipal is not one of these serene spots, but it is the best place to truly get to grips with the culture of Brazil’s most populous settlement. An experience for all the senses, with hawker’s shouting about their spices, meats sizzling at busy lunch spots, and an array of bright fruit and vegetables to try. The market building itself is also beautifully designed, making it an attraction on its own terms.
14. Explore the wetlands of Pantanal
The Amazon might get all the attention when it comes to Brazil’s wildlife treasures, but this cross-country wetland region is full of enough animal and plant life diversity to rival the famous rainforest. On a visit here, you can see everything from ancient reptiles to colourful birds, and even the elusive jaguar if you’re lucky. There’s all sorts of activities available to do too, from multi-day treks to lazy river tours, making it perfect for all kinds of traveller. One of the best things to do In Brazil.
15. Get the adrenaline pumping in Florianopolis
Florianopolis is a land of beaches, which is why so many come here to unwind. But, we understand that, sometimes, even lounging on a paradisiacal coastline can get a bit dull, which is why this destination makes our list of the best things to do in Brazil. From bungee jumping to jet-skiing, you can safely engage in a number of extreme sports in Florianopolis, all without breaking the bank!
What activities is Brazil known for?
Brazil is a huge and diverse country, which means you can do almost anything you want on a visit here, whether that’s indulge your inner culture vulture or let loose with a great night out.
With that said, there’s no doubt the most famous attractions in the country include a number in Rio de Janeiro, like Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf Mountain. Brazil’s natural wonders are also a key part of its popularity as a destination, whether that be its pristine beaches or the absurd diversity of flora and fauna in its wetlands and rainforests.
Is 7 days enough in Brazil?
You can cram a lot in a week in Brazil, and if you know what you want to see, 7 days can be enough in the country. With that said, we’d always recommend trying to extend your stay in a land this big and diverse.
