Enjoy the attractive and fine beaches of unique beauty while you drink a caipirinha—Brazil's national cocktail. Known for its carnivals, Brazil has one of the most famous and celebrated carnival festivals in the world where you will be able to feel the rhythms of the Brazilian culture and enjoy the hip-shaking samba and frevo, remarkable costumes, and parties that last until the sun is up. Home to one of the Seven Wonders and well known for its football passion, Brazil is the perfect combination of leisure, nature, and lively atmosphere, making the country an unforgettable and unique destination.
Reasons to visit
As the biggest country in South America and the fifth largest in the world, Brazil is also one of the most diverse. Much of northwestern Brazil is home to the Amazon rainforest, the world’s largest, which also extends into several of Brazil’s neighboring countries.
Currently, Brazil is the sixth most populous country in the world with one of the most impressive and thriving economies. It is considered a cultural superpower with geography of epic portions, beautiful beaches, and magnificent sites. The Brazilian culture we know and love today has gained fame for its food, religion, sports, music, and distinctive dance styles. Its festivals and shows are one of the main reasons people visit.
There are also plenty of beautiful cities worth checking out during a visit to Brazil. First and foremost is Rio de Janeiro with its idyllic coastal location; it’s a true Brazilian gem, considered one of the most beautiful cities in the world by those who visit. Then, there is São Paulo, the chief industrial city of Latin America and the largest city in Brazil. And, last but not least, Salvador, the heart of Afro-Brazilian culture, is one of the top destinations in Brazil favored by local and international tourists.
Main attractions
Brazil has something to offer everyone, and the best way to discover it is by venturing to its many attractions and bountiful natural sites. Here are a few of our favorites:
- Amazon rainforest: Also known as Amazonia, this tropical rainforest features 2,100,000 square miles of lush forestry and diverse wildlife. Within every 0.6 miles of the Amazon rainforest, Brazil is said to house more than 100,000 tons of living plant life. Though it is possible to explore certain areas on foot, most visitors opt for guided boat tours along the Amazon River, one of the longest rivers in the world.
- Iguazu Falls: Also known as Iguassu or Iguaçu, these are the largest waterfalls in the world. This spectacular natural sight on the border between Brazil, Argentina, and Paraguay consists of 250 spectacular waterfalls plunging into the Iguazu River located in the Brazilian state of Paraná.
- Búzios: Located approximately 109 miles from Rio de Janeiro, Buzios is a stunning peninsula with more than 20 magnificent beaches with crystal-clear water.
- Christ the Redeemer: Also known as Cristo Rei, this is one of the most renowned attractions in Brazil. At a height of approximately 98 feet, this monument of Christ with his arms spread wide overlooks Rio de Janeiro and features stunning panoramic views of Rio’s streets, bays, and beaches.
- The beaches: Brazil has more than 2,000 beaches stretching along its shoreline. Some of the most famous are the Copacabana Beach in Rio de Janeiro, the Lopes Mendes beach on the island of Ilha Grande, and the Jericoacoara Beach in Ceara, and of course, the 42 beaches of Florianopolis.
Major celebrations/events
Carnival is one of the festivities, if not the main festivity, that Brazil is famous for worldwide. This five-day celebration, held 40 days before Easter and followed immediately by the beginning of Lent on Ash Wednesday, starts on a Friday and ends on a Tuesday. During Carnival, the streets come alive with parades that feature traditional dances, music, and costumes. The main event that takes place during Carnival is the Samba Parade, which takes place on Saturday, the second day of Carnival.
When to go
September marks the beginning of spring in Brazil, and although it is considered low season, it is the best time to visit. With seasonal rainfall often providing light relief from the tropical heat, the temperature during this time is warm and pleasant. In addition to this, you can avoid the massive incoming crowds of the major holiday periods.
Keep in mind that because Brazil is located in the southern hemisphere, winter in Brazil lasts from May to September.
Travel tips
- Along Rio Negro in the northern state of Amazonas, you are likely to spot pink river dolphins, also known as Boto dolphins. This endangered species is the largest freshwater dolphin in the world, measuring up to 9 feet long and weighing over 350 pounds.
- Patrons to one of the best soccer teams in the world, Brazilians are hardcore soccer enthusiasts and incredibly supportive and proud of their teams.
- Most Brazilians love to eat meat, and churrasco—derived from the Portuguese and Spanish term for grilling meat on skewers over hot coals—is one of the most popular national dishes.
- The most popular alcoholic spirit in Brazil is cachaça, which is a distilled spirit made from sugarcane juice. It’s used in caipirinha, a traditional and beloved cocktail.
