The 10 Best Things to Do in Brazil
Whether you’re drawn to exploring lush rainforests, soaking in the charm of colonial towns, or seeking adventure in the wild, Brazil has it all. With so much to see in this South American paradise, you might be wondering where to begin while planning your trip. To make the process as easy as possible for you, we have rounded up the 10 best things to do in Brazil.
At a glance: see Iguazú Falls at sunrise; ride the train through the Atlantic rainforest from Curitiba to Morretes; sail Ilha Grande’s Green Coast by private boat; explore colonial Paraty; stay at the Ibiti Project; search for jaguars in the Pantanal; explore Rio’s Lapa quarter with a local; take a drumming lesson in Salvador; hike Chapada Diamantina; and birdwatch from Cristalino Lodge’s canopy towers in the Amazon.
Written by Sinead, our Latin America and wildlife specialist
Updated 16th October 2026
1. Explore the Brazilian Iguazú Falls at Sunrise
With around 275 separate cascades, Iguazú Falls is one of the largest waterfall systems in the world. The tumbling waters are surrounded by lush jungle, making it an awe-inspiring sight. While Iguazú Falls is a fantastic place to visit at any time of day, seeing the falls at sunrise, before the park opens, is a particularly special experience. Guests staying at the Belmond Hotel das Cataratas, inside the national park on the Brazilian side, can walk the trails outside public opening hours.
The sight of the falls, free of crowds and bathed in the morning glow, is nothing short of breathtaking. You’ll also be able to explore the park while it’s at its quietest, and truly immerse yourself in its glorious natural scenery.
If you’re looking for things to do in southern Brazil, don’t miss Iguazú Falls on our Brazil Wildlife, Waterfalls and Beach Holiday, or see the falls at sunrise from the Belmond on our Wild Brazil holiday. Speak to our experts about your dates and wish list.
2. Travel Through the Southern Atlantic Rainforest By Train
The train through the southern Atlantic rainforest is one of Brazil’s great journeys. Your adventure begins in Curitiba, one of the cleanest cities in the country and a wonderfully peaceful place to start. This iconic train ride was featured in the BBC’s Race Around the World, and can be included as part of our Slow Travel: Southern Brazil holiday.
Curitiba is often called Brazil’s green capital, with around 58 m²of green space per person. Get into the holiday spirit by exploring the landmarks of the Centro, admiring the native plants and flowers in the Jardim Botânico, and discovering the architecture of the Centro Cívico.
After a few days in Curitiba, board the train to Morretes. The 110-kilometre journey takes around three hours and cuts through the emerald landscape of one of the largest protected areas of Atlantic rainforest in Brazil.
You’ll be treated to incredible views along the way as you cross viaducts, bridges and tunnels, with vistas over the dramatic coastal mountains and forests of Paraná pine. Then you’ll reach your destination: Morretes.
This picturesque colonial town sits in the Serra da Graciosa, part of the Serra do Mar mountains that run along Brazil’s south-eastern Atlantic coast. Its setting is defined by colourful houses, lush vegetation and the glistening waters of the Nhundiaquara River.
3. Take a Private Boat from Ilha Grande and Sail the Green Coast
Looking for fun things to do in Brazil? Consider staying on Ilha Grande and hiring a boat to explore the extraordinary spots scattered along the Costa Verde. Ilha Grande itself is a stunning landmass off the coast between Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo.
While absolutely stunning, its beauty is no secret and visiting Ilha Grande is one of the most famous things to do in Brazil. To escape the hustle and bustle, you can rent a plush private boat and veer off the beaten track.
As Ilha Grande is a huge island, it’s impossible to visit all of its beaches. Taking to the sea is the best way to reach all of its least-discovered bays and coves. Stop at one hidden gem after the next, where you can jump in and swim or snorkel to discover the wonderful local marine species. We love Ilha Grande and our experts can include time here as part of our Brazil and Rio Beach Adventure Holiday.
Many of the luxury vessels on offer from Ilha Grande are complete with a barbecue and bartender, so you can enjoy delicious, fresh meals and drinks while soaring across the turquoise waters.
4. Delve into Brazil’s Colonial History in Paraty, from Slavery to Gold and Cachaça
Paraty is a wonderful place to visit during your holiday in Brazil. Around 250 kilometres from Rio de Janeiro, the town is a tapestry of cobbled streets and brightly coloured flowers, celebrated for its local cuisine, vibrant cultural scene and stunning coastal scenery.
As one of Brazil’s oldest towns, it’s an exceptional place to learn about the country’s history. Something of an open-air museum, all you need to do is stroll through Paraty’s historic centre to get a feel for its rich heritage.
The town was founded by the Portuguese in the 17th century and has a wealth of pretty colonial-era buildings. But its human story goes back long before they arrived: the Guaianás indigenous people were the original inhabitants, and gave Paraty its name, which translates as “river of fish”.
Paraty began as a humble fishing village before becoming one of the most important ports in Brazil in the 18th century, when gold from the mines inland was shipped through it, and later during the coffee boom. When trade moved to new routes, it became something of a ghost town. With such a fascinating history, it’s no wonder Paraty is so popular. Spend four days here on our Slow Travel: Southern Brazil holiday.
5. Support the Ibiti Project
Ibiti is a socio-environmental project committed to reintroducing species that faced extinction due to habitat loss in the Ibitipoca State Park. The team supports an array of wildlife species, including the tapir and the highly endangered muriqui monkey.
The Ibiti Project owns a few remote lodges scattered across the area that have been thoughtfully renovated and redesigned using recycled materials and repurposed furnishings. The initiative rents these out for visitors, providing incredible experiences for travellers along with employment opportunities for the locals.
While staying at one of the lodges, indulge in rejuvenating spa and yoga programs, enjoy a glass of champagne while watching the sunset at Lago Negro, or catch an open-air cinema screening against the stunning backdrop of mountain views.
If you’re feeling active, you can go cycling around the reserve aboard an e-bike and in the company of an experienced guide. Alternatively, you can go horseback riding on a Brazilian Mangalarga Marchador horse to reach the most remote sites in the area or birdwatching to spot some of the 300 species that call Ibiti their home.
6. Search for Jaguars by Boat from Porto Jofre
One of the world’s most elusive creatures, the jaguar is no easy animal to spot. If you’re dreaming of seeing this magnificent big cat in the wild, Brazil’s Northern Pantanal is one of the best places on the planet to try.
The Pantanal is the world’s largest tropical wetland, and part of it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Jaguars here are strong swimmers, and the best way to find them is by boat along the Cuiabá River and its tributaries near Porto Jofre: one of Brazil’s great wildlife adventures.
While searching for jaguars, you can stay at Araras Pantanal Eco Lodge, right among the Pantanal’s wildlife, with the region’s landscapes and animals on your doorstep.
Aymara Lodge is another wonderful place to stay. Founded by a professional nature guide, it sits in the heart of the Aymara Natural Reserve, with 16 suites, each with a patio and pool view, and activities including canoe tours, treks and night safaris. Include a stay at either lodge on our Brazil jaguar holiday, and read our guide to the best chance to see jaguars.
7. Spend a Day like a Carioca in Rio de Janeiro and Explore Lapa with a Local
You simply can’t come to Brazil without visiting its former capital. Rio de Janeiro was the capital until 1960, when the title moved to Brasília, and it’s still one of the best places to visit in Brazil.
Like most destinations, the most rewarding way to experience the former capital is in the company of a local. Taking a tour of the Lapa Quarter is one of the best things to do in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The area is popular amongst creatives and home to a lot of incredible sites.
A local guide can share the fascinating history behind the area’s colonial buildings, now home to vintage shops and coffee shops, while leading you to its most iconic landmarks. Lapa is home to the famous Arcos da Lapa, or Lapa Arches: an 18th-century aqueduct that runs for around 270 metres on arches about 17 metres high, overlooking the central square.
Your guide may also take you to the Museum of Image and Sound (Museu da Imagem e do Som). Afterwards, end the tour by dipping into Lapa’s famous nightlife, renowned for its samba bars and street parties. Including Rio de Janeiro on a honeymoon to Brazil is a perfect way to try some amazing food and experience the vibe of the city. Including Rio de Janeiro as part of a Honeymoon to Brazil is a perfect way to do try some amazing food and experience the vibe of Brazil.
8. Take a Drumming Lesson in Salvador, the City of Music
Participating in a drumming lesson in Salvador, also known as the City of Music, is a unique way to experience Brazil’s music. It offers more than just a musical experience.
Instead, it provides an incredible insight into the rich cultural heritage of Salvador, where music is deeply intertwined with the city’s identity. These drumming lessons invite you to discover the roots of samba music and the beats that form the backdrop for Brazil’s iconic carnivals.
This interactive and educational opportunity appeals to all ages. In fact, it is one of the most fun things to do in Brazil for kids as they are invited to actively participate in creating new rhythms.
9. Spend Three Days Hiking Chapada Diamantina, Bahia
Immerse yourself in nature by escaping to the wild landscapes of Chapada Diamantina National Park for three days. Translating to Diamond Highlands, the park lies in the state of Bahia and is said to be one of the best places to go hiking in Brazil.
The varied terrain makes for an extraordinary landscape to explore on foot. While hiking, you’ll come across everything from spectacular canyons to flowing rivers, and secret waterfalls to untouched valleys. Set aside three days for exploring the park in the company of an expert guide.
The Cachoeira da Fumaça, or Smoke Falls, is one of the highlights of trekking in Chapada Diamantina. At around 340 metres high, it’s one of the highest waterfalls in Brazil.
Surrounded by majestic canyons, it’s an absolutely breathtaking sight. The hike starts from the town of Lençóis, climbing into the green hills above the town as you begin your adventure in Chapada Diamantina.
10. Birdwatch from the Top of 50-metre High Towers at Sunrise, Cristalino Lodge
Cristalino Lodge is one of the best places in Brazil for birdwatching, with [596] species recorded on site. The lodge is in the southern Amazon, where the rainforest meets the Cerrado savanna.
Where these two ecosystems meet, a birdwatching paradise emerges. Climb the observation towers at sunrise: set throughout the forest reserve, these 50-metre steel towers give panoramic views over the canopy, so you can spot birds right across this vast area.
The thrill of spotting unique species like macaws, aracari and parakeets is made all the more special by the unfolding birdsong and the backdrop of the rising sun. Cristalino Lodge also has guides who specialise in birdwatching and seek out and identify species throughout the day. They can lead you along the lodge’s trails, pointing out one unique species after the next.
You can come across everything from Ornate Antwren (Epinecrophylla ornata) to Flame-crowned Manakin (Heterocercus linteatus), and the Amazonian Umbrellabird (Cephalopterus ornatus), to Amazonian Motmot (Momotus Momota).
Along the lodge’s exclusive trails, you’ll journey through bamboo groves, peaceful riverbanks and thick forest canopy. Stay at Cristalino on our Jaguars, Jungle & Beach Luxury Brazil Adventure.
Summary
As you can see, this country offers a plethora of exciting activities and attractions. With so many things to see and do in Brazil, it makes for an incredible destination to explore.
Dreaming of visiting Brazil and pondering where to begin with your itinerary? Explore our fantastic selection of Brazil holidays, featuring renowned destinations like the breathtaking landscapes of the Amazon rainforest, the wildlife wonderland of the Pantanal, and the legendary streets of Rio de Janeiro. Contact our experts directly here to find out more and get planning your dream holiday to Brazil.
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