The 10 Best Things to Do in Brazil

February 19 • 2024

See Jaguars in their natural habitat

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.

The unbeatable sound of the thunderous Iguazu falls

1. Explore the Brazilian Iguazú Falls at Sunrise

With 275 separate cascades, Iguazú Falls is the largest unbroken waterfall in the world. The tumbling waters are surrounded by lush jungle vegetation, making seeing this awe-inspiring sight easily one of the top things to do in Brazil.

While Iguazú Falls is a fantastic place to visit no matter the time of day, catching the majestic waterfalls at sunrise before the park opens, offers a particularly special experience. This exclusive access is available through select Brazil itineraries and tours.

The sight of the falls, devoid of crowds and bathed in the morning glow, is nothing short of breathtaking. In addition, you’ll be able to enjoy the privilege of exploring the park while it is at its quietest, enabling you to truly immerse yourself in its glorious natural scenery.

If you’re looking for things to do in South Brazil, do not miss out on the opportunity to visit the sensational Iguazú Falls.

2. Travel Through the Southern Atlantic Rainforest By Train

Taking a train through the Southern Atlantic Rainforest is another of the most amazing things to do in Brazil. Your adventure begins in Curitiba, one of the cleanest cities in the country and a wonderfully peaceful metropolis.

Curitiba is recognised as Brazil’s ecological capital and boasts 58m² of green space per person. Here, you can get right into the holiday spirit by checking out the landmarks in Centro, marvelling at the stunning native plants and flowers in Jardim Botânico, and investigating the beautiful architecture of the Centro Cívico.

After spending a few days exploring Curitiba, it’s time to board your train to Morretes. The 110-kilometre journey takes around 3 hours and cuts straight into the majestic emerald landscape of the biggest Atlantic Rainforest conservation area in Brazil.

You’ll be treated to incredible views along the way as you cross viaducts, bridges and tunnels, including vistas over the dramatic coastal mountainscape and vast forests of Brazilian pine. Then, you’ll reach your end destination: Morretes.

The picturesque colonial village is located in the Serra da Graciosa, a section of the Serra da Mar chain of mountains that runs along the southeastern Atlantic coast. The glorious setting is characterised by charming and colourful houses set amidst flourishing vegetation and the glistening waters of the Nhundiaquara River.

Hidden coves and turquoise waters of Ilha Grande

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.

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.

Sam on a recent visit to the incredible Paraty

4. Delve into the Colonial History of Brazil From Slavery to Gold to Cacaica in Paraty

Paraty is a wonderful place to visit during your holiday in Brazil. Located 300 kilometres from Rio de Janeiro, the idyllic town is a tapestry of idyllic cobbled streets and brightly coloured flowers. Paraty is celebrated for its exquisite local cuisine, vibrant cultural scene and stunning coastal scenery.

As you might expect from one of Brazil’s oldest towns, it is an exceptional place to visit for those wanting to learn about the country’s history. Something of an open-air museum, all you need to do is take a stroll through Paraty’s historic centre to get a feel for its rich heritage.

The historic town was founded by the Portuguese in the 16th century and boasts a wealth of pretty colonial-era buildings. However, its human footprint dates back long before they arrived. The Guaianás indigenous people were the original inhabitants and were the ones who gave it its name, Paraty, which translates to “rivers of fish”.

Paraty started as a humble fishing village, before growing into one of the most important ports in Brazil in the 19th century and a significant trading centre during the Brazilian Gold Rush and the Coffee economic boom. However, it became something of a ghost town after the economic crash. With such a fascinating history, it’s no wonder why visiting Paraty is one of the most popular things to do in Brazil.

The unique and wonderful Ibiti Project, a must-include when exploring Brazil

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.

Visiting the Ibiti Project is without a doubt one of the most interesting things to do in Brazil. 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.

Serving up adventure, serenity and sustainability, visiting the Ibiti Project is definitely one of the best things to do in Brazil.

The rich Pantanal, teeming with wildlife

6. Sail the Porto Jofre River in Search of Jaguars

One of the world’s most elusive creatures, spotting jaguars is no easy task. For those of you dreaming of seeing this magnificent Big Cat in the wild, you’ll be pleased to know that Brazil’s northern Pantanal is one of the best places to see it on the planet.

The UNESCO-protected reserve is home to the largest floodplain in the world. This spot is popular amongst the jaguars who are very strong swimmers. Sail the waters of the Porto Jofre River in search of these incredible creatures, ticking off one of the most adventurous things to do in Brazil.

While searching for jaguars, you can stay at Araras Pantanal Eco Lodge, which lies right amongst the Pantanal and its wildlife. The self-sustainable accommodation offers a plush stay while leaving the region’s remarkable landscapes and animals at your fingertips.

Aymara Lodge is another wonderful place to stay while searching for jaguars in the Pantanal. Founded by a professional nature guide, it is strategically located right in the heart of the forest of the Aymara Natural Reserve. Its 16 suites are complete with a patio and pool view, while activities on offer include canoe tours, treks and night safaris.

Explore Rio like a local, in the Lapa Quarter

7. Spend a Day like a Carioca in Rio de Janeiro and Explore Lapa with a Local

You simply cannot come to Brazil without paying a visit to its former capital. Rio de Janeiro was the capital until 1960 when the title shifted to Brasilia. Nowadays, the city is recognised as 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 stunning colonial buildings that are now home to vintage shows and coffee shops, while also leading you to the area’s most iconic landmarks. Lapa is home to the famous Lapa Arches, or the Arcos da Lapa. The striking 18th-century aqueduct stands at 210 metres high, watching out over the central square.

Your guide may also take you to The Museum of Image and Sound (Museu da Imagem e do Som). Afterwards, you may wish to conclude the tour by dipping your toe into the area’s famous nightlife scene. Lapa is renowned for its samba-filled bars and street parties.

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 one of the most unique things to do in Brazil. 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.

Get your hiking boots on for an adventure with incredible views to match, in Chapasa Diamantina National Park

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, Fumaca Waterfall, is one of the highlights of trekking in Chapada Diamantina. Translating to “Smoke Falls”, it stands 340 metres high, making it one of the highest waterfalls in the whole of Brazil.

The Cachoeira da Fumaça is surrounded by majestic canyons and is an absolutely breathtaking sight. The hike itself starts from the village of Lencois. From here, you will venture up the verdant hills peering down over the town and begin your adventure in Chapada Diamantina.

The thrill of spotting bird life at 50 metres up in the sky!

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 having been catalogued onsite, the skies are brimming with fascinating avian creatures. The accommodation is located in the Amazon forest, close to where the Pantanal wetlands meet the Cerrado savanna.

At the convergence of these two distinct natural ecosystems, a birdwatching paradise emerges. One of the best things to do in Brazil is to go up the observation towers at Cristalino Lodge at sunrise. Strategically positioned throughout the forest reserve, these steel masterpieces provide panoramic views, allowing you to spot all kinds of avian creatures across the expansive 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.

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 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.