Brazil Travel Insights

Copacabana Beach in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Best Time of Year to Visit Brazil

Each season in Brazil offers distinct adventures, whether you are looking for grand celebrations with parades and dancing, or relaxing time on some of the world's most beautiful beaches. Visit beautiful islands, go on an exploration tour through the Amazon, and watch the majestic jaguars in the world's largest wetland area -Pantanal. Even if you don't travel to Rio's world-famous Carnaval, you can still join the celebrations that happen almost every month, from the Christmas Light Show in Gramado to the International Art Festival in São Paulo.

Christmas Tree in Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon

Brazil in December: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

It's Christmas, the weather is warm, and Brazil comes alive in December like no other month. Visit Gramado—the Chrismas Capital of Brazil—to see the great Christmas Parade, a spectacular light show, ice skaters, and acrobats. Head to the Lapa district in Rio de Janeiro, where Christmas markets fill the streets, then celebrate New Year's Eve on Copacabana beach with the spectacular Reveillon Carnival. Keep reading to find out why December is a magical month to visit Brazil.

Sunset on Ipanema Beach in Rio de Janeiro

Brazil in November: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

November in Brazil is still low season, but as the weather warms you can enjoy hiking, beach time, and sightseeing without worrying about getting lost in the crowds. Head to Salvador de Bahia and stroll around All Saints Bay, take a day trip to Chapada Diamantina National Park, and enjoy whale watching in Florianopolis. Get adventurous and try windsurfing or kiteboarding in Natal and Fortaleza, or visit the Botanical Garden in Rio to admire 6,000 species of plants, including 900 different species of palms.

Ilha Grande on the Green Coast in Brazil

Brazil in October: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

It's the shoulder season in Brazil, and one of the best times to visit. October is the tail end of winter in Brazil, with warming weather and dry, sunny days throughout the country. It's a good time to head to the Green Coast beautiful Ilha Grande and visit some of the most famous beaches in Brazil, hike through forest trails, or embark on a riverboat cruise on the Manaus river. Enjoy October celebrations such as the Oktober Fest in Blemau, and watch films across the city of Rio de Janeiro at the Rio International Film Festival.

Brazil in September: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

September in Brazil is shoulder season, and one of the best months to visit. It's winter in the southern hemisphere, with some cities (like Curitiba) seeing snowfall. Visit the winter capital of Brazil—Gramado—and hike through the mountainous city of Petrópolis. It's dry this month in the rainforest, so consider a trip to the Amazon to see wildlife. You might link together a visit to several cities with a trip to the Pantanal to make the most of the off-season prices. Read on to learn why September is one of the best months to visit Brazil.

Brazil in August: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

August is the dry season in Brazil, which means sightseeing, beach time, and jungle exploration. Head to Salvador da Bahia to see its 17th- and 18th-century living museum, hike through white dunes and turquoise lagoons in Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, or visit Santa Catarina to see right whales migrating. August brings big festivals (like Bumba Meu Boi in São Luís), ideal conditions for wildlife viewing in the Pantanal, and sunshine to the coastal cities. Read on for more travel tips if you're visiting Brazil in August.

Brazil in July: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

July in Brazil brings wildlife watching and adventures in the Amazon, with jaguars making frequent appearances in the open wildlife area of Pantanal. Hikers will especially enjoy mountain areas like the Serra Gaúcha, Rio Grande do Sul, and Gramado. Rio de Janeiro is warm and sunny, and prime national parks and recreation areas this month include Tijuca and Campos do Jordão. Read on for more travel tips and advice for visiting Brazil in July.

Brazil in June: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

June is an exciting month in Brazil. The famous June festivals take place across the country, and you can join celebrations in São Luís, Salvador, and Recife. Attend the world's largest Pride Festival in beautiful São Paolo and experience amazing parades, colors, and joyful spirit. Go climbing in the Serra dos Órgãos National Park and visit Brazil's most intriguing sand dune region in the Lencóis Maranhenses National Park, and celebrate Brazilian Valentine's Day—Dia Dos Namorados.

Coppery Titi monkey in the Amazon Forest, Brazil

Brazil in May: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

May in Brazil opens the doorway to the mighty Amazon and wildlife in Pantanal. Warm weather brings excellent hiking opportunities and city exploration time. Go on a boat cruise on the Amazon River, watch squirrel monkeys hanging in the trees, and spot a jaguar or two on a safari tour. Visit the Shell Open Air theatre in Rio de Janeiro and watch a movie on the world's biggest open-air cinema screen. Read on for travel tips for traveling to Brazil in May.

Brazil in April: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

Easter brings parades and energy to Brazil from the beginning to the middle of the month. Mild weather makes this period excellent for hiking and city adventures, and it is the perfect time to enjoy sightseeing, culture, and art in cities such as São Paulo. Check out the International Art Festival of São Paulo and head to Ouro Preto to attend one of the best Easter celebrations in Brazil. Continue to the world's largest wetland and wildlife haven—Pantanal, which begins its best season in April.

Brazil in March: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

March brings big crowds and a dynamic, joyful vibe to Brazil with Carnival season and Holy Week, along with quieter beach time and sightseeing. No matter if the festivities take place during the month or not, it is a great month to visit and enjoy culture, hiking, and sun. It's a great time to visit the Iguazu Falls, which are swollen with water after the summer rains, go on a hiking tour in Fernando de Noronha, or visit São Paulo to enjoy warm weather, culture, and nightlife. Keep reading to find out why March is a great month to visit Brazil.

Brazil in February: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

February in Brazil means one thing: Carnival season. Colorful parades and street parties are held across the country, while cities like Rio de Janeiro put on spectacular city-wide shows. Don't miss the Galo da Madrugada in Recife—an epic parade and the biggest street party in the world. In the north, warm weather makes February an ideal time for sightseeing in São Luis and Fortaleza. In the south, conditions are perfect for surfing, sunbathing, and relaxing on white-sand beaches.

Copacabana and Ipanema Beach in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Brazil in January: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

The weather is at its warmest in January, and it's a great time to visit if you want to spend time enjoying the country's many beaches. Visit the famous Copacabana beach in Rio de Janeiro, try windsurfing in São Miguel do Gostoso, and look for jaguars in the Amazon as you canoe through the flooded rainforest. Stroll around the streets of the charming old town in Salvador and experience the city's African-Brazilian culture or learn how to surf in Fortaleza — Brazil's fifth-biggest city.

Wildlife Tour of Brazil's Pantanal Wetlands - 6 Days

Nature-lovers won't want to miss this relaxed 6-day itinerary that allows for plenty of adventure in the Pantanal—the world’s largest tropical wetland. You'll stay in a series of independent safari hotels in Poconé and Porto Jofre that make the perfect jumping-off point for hikes, birdwatching expeditions, and more. You'll see colorful exotic birds, giant anteaters, jaguars, capybaras, anacondas, and piranhas on multiple safari expeditions and have plenty of time to relax or book additional activities that match your interests.

Active Brazil: Trekking in Chapada National Park - 11 Days

Active travelers will explore some of Brazil's best natural scenery in this itinerary that balances four full days of hiking with urban tours and beachfront relaxation. Begin your trip in the lively city of Salvador before taking a flight to Lençóis for a day of cafe-hopping and historic architecture. Then, begin your trek through the Vale do Pati and into Chapada Diamantina National Park. You'll swim in waterfalls, enjoy awe-inspiring cliff views, and recharge in a secluded island paradise.

Beach Honeymoon in Brazil: Búzios, Rio de Janeiro & Itacaré - 14 Days

Set off to a romantic beach honeymoon in beautiful Brazil. Your first stop will be the small village of Búzios, where you will spend the days sunbathing, sailing, and enjoying fresh seafood. Then, you'll pick up the pace in thrilling and thriving Rio de Janeiro. You'll visit the Christ the Redeemer statue, samba through the night, and people-watch in Copacabana. The trip ends in Itacaré, a fishing town with wild beaches where you can once again enjoy a slower pace of life.

Discover Brazil: Rio de Janeiro & Paraty - 7 Days

This weeklong itinerary is perfect for travelers who are visiting Brazil for the first time. First, you'll tour the most famous sites in Rio de Janeiro, including the awe-inspiring Christ the Redeemer statue, and experience the energy of Carnival before heading off to the nearby colonial town of Paraty where you can stroll through historic neighborhoods, learn how to cook with Brazilian flair, bike through tropical forests, and relax on secluded beaches.

Brazil Highlights: Rio de Janeiro, Iguaçu Falls & Amazon Rainforest - 10 Days

This journey is ideal for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and culture enthusiasts. Start in Rio de Janeiro where you'll visit city highlights such as Sugarloaf and Corcovado peaks, and learn what the “Carioca lifestyle” is all about. Impressive architecture and delicious food await you in a joyful atmosphere, followed by the magic of Iguaçu Falls—the most extensive waterfall system in the world. Then it is off to Manaus, gateway to the Amazon, where you will visit the jungle and observe wildlife.

Christ the Redeemer overlooks Rio de Janeiro

Authentic Rio de Janeiro - 5 Days

To visitors, Rio de Janeiro is an exotic city where color and music flourish. Although the Cariocas (residents of Rio) agree, they know there's much more to their "Wonderful City." Explore irresistible beaches, surf and wooded mountains, the world-famous landmarks of the Pão de Açúcar and Cristo Redentor, and more on this quick immersion into the magic of Rio.

Rio de Janeiro and Iguazú Falls - 7 Days

On this weeklong trip to Brazil, experience city life, and then connect with nature. The trip kicks off in Rio de Janeiro, with a full-day city tour of sites like Christ the Reedemer, Sugar Loaf, and all the best beaches. Then, take a day trip to Pedra Bonita for scenic viewpoints. Next, venture to Iguazú Falls, a phenomenon that spans from Brazil to Argentina. Enjoy some free time before experiencing the falls from both countries, and tour the Iguazú River.

Explore Brazil: São Luís to Lençóis Maranhenses - 6 Days

This six-day trip through two regions of Brazil provides a great combination of culture and adventure. Begin in the charming island city of São Luís. Embark on a sightseeing tour of all the main streets, avenues, and squares. Then, travel to Barreirinhas, your home base surrounding Lençóis Maranhenses National Park. Boat along the Preguiças River, Atins Circuit, and Lagoa Azul Circuit, trek the dunes, and swim in lagoons along the way.

Brazil Amazon Adventure: Manaus & Careiro - 5 Days

On this five-day Brazilian adventure, experience Amazonian culture and the spectacular rainforest. Land in Manaus, the capital of the Amazon region, and do some sightseeing upon arrival. Next, visit the Meeting of the Waters—a river phenomenon—on the way to Careiro. Spend the next few days immersed in the biodiverse environment of the Amazon Jungle Lodge and its rich surroundings, from nature hikes to canoeing, and piranha fishing to nocturnal wildlife tours.

Explore Brazil: From Rio de Janeiro to the Amazon - 7 Days

On this weeklong Brazilian adventure, experience a combination of both city life and destinations in nature. Begin in Rio de Janeiro, and embark on a full-day city tour to Christ the Redeemer, Sugar Loaf, and the best beaches in the area. Then, take a day trip to Ilha Grande to soak up the sun and explore a few of the many islands and beaches. Next, head to the Amazon to do some touring of Manaus, before arriving in Careiro to enjoy activities in the Amazon rainforest, including canoeing, piranha fishing, and a nocturnal nature tour.

Brazil Adventure: Rio de Janeiro, Iguazú Falls, & Pantanal - 10 Days

Embark on a fun and active journey through Brazil on this 10-day tour. Begin in the bustling seaside city of Rio de Janeiro for some sightseeing—Christ the Redeemer, a cable car ride, and the best beaches included. Next, embark on a scenic hike along the Pedra Bonita trail, followed by a tour of the mesmerizing Iguazú Falls, from both Brazil and Argentina. Then, venture to Pantanal, with its densely biodiverse tropical wetlands, for more active exploration.

Look out over the Serra dos Órgãos range from Portais de Hércules

Rio de Janeiro Trek: Portais de Hércules - 2 Days

Considered the best viewpoint over the Serra dos Órgãos mountain range, you'll trek to Portais de Hércules on this two-day excursion from Rio de Janeiro. Perfect for athletic travelers short on time, you'll depart the capital early on day one, trek through forest and plateaus to Castelos do Açú basecamp, and reward yourself the following morning with a sunrise trek to the famed lookout.

Take in a magnificent sunrise from atop Pedra do Sino

Rio de Janeiro Trek: Pedra do Sino - 2 Days

This two-day hike features Pedra do Sino in the stunning Serra dos Órgãos Mountain Range and is perfect for travelers who are visiting Brazil's capital and want a quick off-the-beaten-path experience. You'll set out from Rio de Janeiro to Brazil's mountaineering capital, Teresópolis, and on to your mountain shelter at the base of Pedra do Sino. Along the way, you'll pass waterfalls, trek through forest and high-altitude vegetation, and take in a sunset from the peak of Pedra do Sino.

Ilha do Pelado, a tropical beach near Paraty

Paraty Beach Trek from Rio - 3 Days

The Paraty wilderness trek is one of Brazil's favorite beach hikes, and it's easy to see why: endless beaches, cascading waterfalls, and sweeping ocean views, all located within the Juatinga Ecological Reserve. Hike 20 miles (32 km) over three days, camping overnight in local fishermen houses and enjoying dinner and sunset on the beach each night. Connections to and from Rio make this an easy and fantastic addition to your Brazil getaway.

Saco do Mamanguá Fjord from Pão de Açúcar Peak

Brazil Mamanguá Fjord Trekking - 4 Days

Spend four days trekking around the Saco do Mamanguá peninsula, a natural paradise with beautiful beaches and accessible trails. Explore Brazil's only fjord from kayak and take in the sweeping views of mountains, beaches, and waterfalls, then hike the Sugar Loaf Peak of Mamanguá, a postcard-perfect highlight of the region. Enjoy easy access from Rio de Janeiro and don't worry about meals, lodging, or carrying the equipment—everything is taken care of.

The Pati Valley - Chapada Diamantina Trekking

Chapada Diamantina Trek - 7 Days

For those who enjoy hiking, this 7-day trip to Chapada Diamantina is a bucket list item. Considered one of the most beautiful crossings in Brazil, the Pati Valley is surrounded by incredible tepuy (cliffs), mountains, cascading waterfalls, and incredible natural beauty. Explore the Cachoeirão Waterfall and the Cave of the Castle, and learn about the history and local culture on overnight homestays.

The paradisiac Parnaioca beach and the Brazilian flag formation

Ilha Grande Beach Trekking - 7 Days

In this active Brazilian excursion, you'll travel from Rio de Janeiro to Angra dos Reis, a coastal region famous for Ilha Grande, the largest of 365 islands in the area. Over six days you'll trek all around Ilha Grande, visiting local caiçara (indigenous) fishing villages, hiking on trails that cut through unspoiled Atlantic forest, ascending mountains, crossing rivers, and, of course, enjoying the island's many sun-kissed beaches. All told it's a 43-mile (70-km) hiking adventure in one of the most scenic locales in a nation abounding with scenic locales.

Immersive Artist Community Visit in Brazil - 5 Days

Experience community-based tourism in the beautiful Jequitinhonha Valley on this immersive art trip. You'll spend five days with the women of the Campo Buriti community, learning the traditional process from harvesting the clay to kiln firing from the artists. Combine with trips to the historic cities of Belo Horizonte, Diamantina, and Tiradentes for a full Brazil tour.

Brazil Itatiaia National Park Trekking (02 days)

Rio de Janeiro Trek: Itatiaia National Park - 2 Days

A true mountaineering paradise, Itatiaia National Park houses the highest point in the state of Rio de Janeiro: the majestic Pico das Agulhas Negras. In this 2-day Itatiaia expedition, you'll climb the two park's main rock formations, Agulhas Negras Peak and Prateleiras Peak, enjoying fantastic views of the park from both summits.

Lopes Mendes, one of the 10 most beautiful beaches of the world

Rio de Janeiro Trek: Angra dos Reis & Ilha Grande - 2 Days

One of the most sought-after activities in Rio de Janeiro is a tour of Angra dos Reis and Ilha Grande—but very few people see the beautiful beaches only accessible via hiking trail. Pico do Papagaio is the most beautiful trail on Ilha Grande. You'll visit Lopes Mendes Beach, considered one of the 10 most beautiful beaches in the world, and one of the highest points of Ilha Grande—the best viewpoint of Angra dos Reis.

Rio de Janeiro Trek: Valley of the Gods - 3 Days

This trek through Three Peak State Park is one of the top areas for adventure in Brazil. Hike around some of the most famous formations in the Valley of the Gods—known as the "Brazilian Yosemite"—including Dragon's Head Peak and Matchbox Peak, known as the "Miracle Stone" for its unlikely formation. In the evenings, camp in one of the park's most beautiful sites and enjoy dinner under the stars.

Immersive Amazon Community Visit - 6 Days

Spend six days diving deep into the culture and local gastronomy on this hybrid eco-tourism and culinary itinerary in the Para State of Brazil. Start in Belem to see the local fish markets and sample cuisine, then head downriver to Cotijuba Island for a community visit where you'll learn to make local dishes, hike through the Amazon, and join the women's empowerment project to throw a beach luau.

Full Rio de Janeiro Adventure - 2 Days

Enjoy Rio's natural beauty during two days of adrenaline-filled adventure. Start with a hike to Pedra Bonita to get a panoramic view of the city, then hang-glide from the top. The next day, take a train to the top of Corcovado mountain to see the statue of Christ the Redeemer and mountain bike to the bottom before hiking Sugarloaf to take in views of Guanabara Bay.

Hike Gávea & Telégrafo in Rio - 2 Days

Lace up your shoes and get ready for two days of adventure in Rio de Janeiro, enjoying the region's stunning natural beauty and mild climate to hit the trails. On your first day hike to Pedra do Telégrafo to take see views of the surrounding mountains and take the iconic daring photo with the hanging rock. On the second day hike to Pedra da Gávea, where you'll see local wildlife and panoramic views of the city and coast.

Mount Roraima Trek - 9 Days

Straddling the triple border between Brazil, Venezuela, and Guyana, Mount Roraima is a perfect destination for adventurous travelers. Spend your days exploring the towering cliffs and unique landscapes of the mountain with the ultimate goal of climbing the summit — known to many as "The Lost World."

Trekking Brazil's Serra Fina Crossing - 5 Days

Perfect for those seeking a difficult, rewarding adventure, the Serra Fina Crossing is known for its high peaks (including the fourth highest peak in the country), cold nights, and challenging terrain. Enjoy one of the country's best sunrise spots, overnight on high mountain peaks, and earn the bragging rights that only Brazil's toughest trek can give you!

Trek Brazil's Petrópolis-Teresópolis Crossing - 3 Days

Trek one of Brazil's most beautiful routes through the lush Serra dos Órgãos National Park — from Petrópolis to Teresópolis. The trail is known for its breathtaking vistas, steep climbs, and high difficulty rating, so get ready for an incredibly rewarding challenge!

Brazil's Fernando de Noronha Island - 6 Days

Explore spectacular Fernando de Noronha, a secluded island paradise located hundreds of miles away from the nearest coast. This dreamy location is perfect for both relaxing and enjoying a tropical adventure. Go snorkeling and diving among the coral reefs, hike along the island's trails for views of turquoise waters and dramatic cliffs, or unwind on the white-sand beaches — voted the world's most beautiful.

Hiking the Dunes of Lençóis Maranhenses National Park - 6 Days

The surreal landscape of Lençóis Maranhenses National Park is one of Brazil's many treasures, and this 6-day hiking itinerary will take you straight into the heart of this natural phenomenon. Rise early to catch stunning sunrises and trek through tall, white sand dunes dotted with thousands of freshwater lagoons that form in the rainy season. Enjoy quiet evenings and drift to sleep in a swaying hammock amid the sounds of nature.

Rio de Janeiro: 7 Ways to Spend A Day

Rio de Janeiro isn't called Cidade Maravilhosa (Marvelous City) for nothing. For a mega-metropolis, it boasts some of the most beautiful natural landscapes in the world. Whether you prefer to stay in the city or venture out, there are plenty of ways to spend a day: visit Petrópolis, lounge on the beaches of Buzios, or hike to instagram-worthy viewpoints within the city limits.

Aerial view of Copacabana and Ipanema beaches

Discover Rio, Costa Verde, and Iguazu Falls - 14 Days

Discover Rio de Janeiro — a vibrant and diverse city where emerald blue water, green inky forest, and rocky mountains meet. Explore the lush Costa Verde and the picturesque colonial town of Paraty. Visit the island of Ilha Grande to relax on dreamy beaches and enjoy a private boat tour. Get up close to the magnificent Iguazu Falls in all their thundering glory.

The Pantanal is brimming with tropical birds like this blue and yellow macaw

Birdwatching in The Pantanal – 7 Days

Travel to Brazil's Pantanal region for an exotic birdwatching adventure in the world's largest tropical wetland. Avid birders will spot the iconic jabiru — the symbol of the Pantanal — the blue hyacinth macaw, and the roseate spoonbill, among dozens of others. Learn the secrets of this fascinating environment through its abundant wildlife and stunning marsh landscapes.

Adventure Tour in Rio de Janeiro - 5 Days

From the Corcovado to Sugarloaf Mountain and Copacabana to Ipanema, this whirlwind tour will sweep you through the best, most famous, and most beautiful beaches, neighborhoods, and mountains that Rio de Janeiro has to offer. Cycle along the endless beaches, hike the largest urban forest in the world, and learn how to cook with Brazilian flare and flavors.

Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf Mountain, Rio

A Brazilian Adventure, from Rio to the Amazon – 9 Days

Start your adventure in Rio de Janeiro, known as the "Cidade Maravilhosa" (the Marvelous City). Explore the Floresta da Tijuca, the largest urban forest in the world, take a cable car to the iconic Sugarloaf Mountain and relax on Copacabana beach. Then head to the Amazon, where you will canoe through the watery forest of the Igapós, spot exotic wildlife in the jungle, and swim with pink dolphins.