What to do in Brazil: 20 must-sees and must-dos

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Christ the Redeemer, Rio de Janeiro

Perched atop Mount Corcovado, Christ the Redeemer overlooks Rio de Janeiro, offering a breathtaking panorama of the samba city.

In the distance, you can see the famous golden beaches and imposing mountains.

The statue, with its arms outstretched, seems to embrace the whole world. Visitors flock here, seeking to get closer to this architectural marvel and immortalize their visit.

Iguaçu Falls, Paraná

Nestling on the border between Brazil and Argentina, the Iguaçu Falls pour out their tumultuous waters in a dizzying symphony.

All around, the lush rainforest teems with life, adding to the magic of the place.

The site boasts over 270 waterfalls, creating an unrivalled aquatic spectacle.

Tourists can follow a variety of paths, guided by the roar of the waters and the rainbows formed by the spray.

Copacabana Beach

Stretching majestically for over 4 kilometers, Copacabana beach is Rio’s undisputed landmark.

Bordered by an undulating mosaic sidewalk, it comes alive day and night.

Cariocas play footvolley, while street vendors sell their local delicacies. The azure sea invites you to relax and take a refreshing dip.

Amazonia, Manaus

In the heart of Brazil, Manaus is the gateway to the vast Amazon rainforest.

The town is surrounded by wilderness, fascinating biodiversity and mysterious meandering rivers.

Here, the Earth’s green lung stretches as far as the eye can see, home to isolated tribes and incredible wildlife. River cruises or jungle treks offer unique experiences.

Rio Carnival

Every year in the heart of Rio, the streets light up with color and music for Carnival. This iconic event attracts crowds from all over the world to watch the parade of samba schools at the Sambodrome.

Sequins, feathers and grandiose costumes are the order of the day. The joy is palpable, as dance and music take over every street corner, transforming the city into a never-ending party. Rio Carnival is considered the world’s biggest carnival, with nearly 2 million people in the streets every day.

Pantanal

Nestled in the southwest of Brazil, the Pantanal is one of the world’s largest wetlands.

This natural wonder is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts. Vast stretches of water offer refuge to an exceptional biodiversity: jaguars, caimans, capybaras and a multitude of birds.

Safaris by 4×4 or on horseback are the best way to immerse yourself in this living tableau.

Ipanema Beach

Just a stone’s throw from Rio’s urban hustle and bustle, Ipanema beach stretches out majestically, offering fine sand and azure waters.

It is framed by mountains, including the famous Sugar Loaf.

It’s a place where locals and tourists mingle, playing volleyball or relaxing in the sun. Street vendors offer local snacks and refreshments.

Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais

Nestled in the mountains of Minas Gerais state, the town of Ouro Preto is a jewel of Brazilian heritage.

First, its cobbled streets wind between ancient colonial buildings and majestic Baroque churches.

Secondly, its once flourishing gold mines tell an important part of the country’s history. The city’s museums also shed light on local art, culture and crafts.

Olinda, Pernambuco

Perched in the hills of northeastern Brazil, Olinda offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.

First, its colorful streets, lined with colonial houses and historic churches, evoke a bygone era.

Artists’ studios and cultural festivals abound, making it a vibrant center of art and music. During Carnival, Olinda comes to life in spectacular fashion with its giant puppets and lively rhythms.

Salvador, Bahia

Located by the sea, Salvador is the jewel of colonial Brazil.

Firstly, its historic center, Pelourinho, is dotted with colorful buildings and ornate churches dating back to the time of the conquistadors.

Then the drums echo through the streets, as Salvador is the birthplace of samba and other Afro-Brazilian rhythms.

For those looking for an experience rich in culture, Salvador offers capoeira classes and tastings of moqueca, a typical dish.

Jericoacoara Beach

In northeastern Brazil, Jericoacoara beach is a hidden paradise.

Firstly, it’s surrounded by golden sand dunes that change shape with the wind, creating an ever-changing landscape.

Then, the freshwater lagoons offer a striking contrast to the azure ocean. For adventure-seekers, water sports and sandboarding are the order of the day here.

Fernando de Noronha

Located in eastern Brazil, the Fernando de Noronha archipelago is an ecological gem.

Its crystal-clear waters are home to coral reefs, the sanctuary of a rich marine fauna. Snorkeling and diving are also key activities, revealing underwater treasures. When the sun goes down, dolphins come to play near the coast, offering an unforgettable natural spectacle.

Lencois Maranhenses

Located in northeastern Brazil, Lençóis Maranhenses National Park extends over a vast area.

First, imagine immense white sand dunes as far as the eye can see. However, during the rainy season, sublime freshwater lagoons form between these dunes, creating a surreal landscape.

As a result, these lagoons become a playground for locals and travellers alike, who bathe in their translucent waters.

Sao Paulo

In the heart of Brazil, São Paulo rises like a sprawling metropolis, surrounded by skyscrapers and urban effervescence.

Avenida Paulista and MASP are among the must-sees for any traveler.

Visitors can immerse themselves in the city’s cultural richness, with its museums, theaters and bustling markets.

Did you know that São Paulo is considered the gastronomic capital of Brazil, offering a diversity of cuisines from all over the world?

Bonito, Mato Grosso do Sul

In the heart of Mato Grosso do Sul, Bonito is a natural wonder, lined with crystal-clear rivers and mysterious caves. The Gruta do Lago Azul and rivers such as Rio da Prata are jewels not to be missed.

Snorkeling, hiking and wildlife observation are the region’s top activities.

Bonito is often considered Brazil’s ecotourism capital, thanks to its efforts to preserve its natural beauty?

Parati

Located between Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, Parati reveals its colonial charm along the coast.

Its cobbled streets and colorful houses transport visitors back through the ages.

Then there’s boating, discovering hidden beaches and hiking.

Chapada Diamantina

Nestled in the heart of the state of Bahia, Chapada Diamantina stretches like a jewel box of natural wonders.

The surrounding mountains and valleys form a grandiose landscape.

Finally, hikers will find plenty to do here, with caves, waterfalls and natural pools to explore.

Chapada dos Veadeiros

In the north of the state of Goiás, the Chapada dos Veadeiros rises majestically.

The plateaus and canyons are dotted with sparkling waterfalls. Adventure lovers will enjoy memorable treks, with a wide variety of flora and fauna to discover.

This region is a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its exceptional biodiversity and unique geological formations?

Buzios

On the shores of the Atlantic Ocean, Buzios is a popular peninsula just a few hours from Rio.

In the surrounding area, several delightful beaches, such as Geribá and João Fernandes, await visitors.

This small coastal paradise offers water sports, walks and a lively nightlife.

Fortaleza, Ceará

Fortaleza is Brazil’s fifth-largest city and the capital of the state of Ceará, in the northeast of the country.

This coastal metropolis is particularly renowned for its magnificent beaches, year-round sunshine and festive atmosphere.

The most famous beaches, such as Praia do Futuro, Meireles and Iracema, offer stretches of fine sand, clear waters and huts (or “barracas”) where visitors can sample local seafood specialities.