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17 Best Places to Visit in Brazil

By Kay Pierce · Last updated on June 17, 2024

Famous for being home to one of the world’s top football teams, the Rio de Janeiro Carnival and the remarkable Iguazu Falls, Brazil is an exciting world travel destination. As South America’s largest country, Brazil covers a majority of the continent’s northeastern region and borders all of its countries except for Chile and Ecuador .

From the Amazon rainforest in the North to the tropical beaches along the Atlantic , to the Pantanal wetlands and the vibrant metropolises of the Southeast there are plenty of interesting places to visit in Brazil .

17. Jericoacoara

Located in the northeast of Brazil in the state of Ceara, Jericoacoara is a lovely, laidback place nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and a national park of the same name. Often referred to as Jeri or Jijoca, the small and secluded seaside town boasts some of the most beautiful scenery in Brazil and is an increasingly popular tourist destination.

Besides its beautiful beaches, Jeri is surrounded by delightful dunes and lagoons that offer countless recreational opportunities, with hiking, swimming and watersports all very popular. Exploring the area on horseback or in dune buggies is a fantastic way to see as much of its splendid scenery as possible; Pedra Furada – or the ‘Arched Rock’ – is the standout sight and symbol.

While its remote setting makes visiting Jericoacoara a challenge, it is well worth the effort for its sumptuous scenery, wealth of outdoor activities, and surprisingly lively nightlife.

16. Sao Paulo

Not only is Sao Paulo the largest city in Brazil, but it is also one of the largest in the world according to population. Located in southeastern Brazil, Sao Paulo is known for its skyscrapers, gastronomy and robust culture scene. Home to many ethnic groups from all over the globe including the largest Japanese community outside of Japan.

Dividing the city between its old and new districts, Paulista Avenue is the city’s busiest strip, brimming in businesses, shopping malls, art galleries, theaters and restaurants. Although Sao Paulo is known for its concrete jungle, it is also home to a large number of public parks and even portions of the Atlantic rainforest.

15. Brasilia

Located in the Brazilian Highlands, Brasilia was installed in 1960 as Brazil’s capital. Brazil’s former President Juscelino Kubitschek of the late 1950s ordered the city to be planned and developed into what some refer to as a utopia. Brasilia’s modern day infrastructure is designed in the shape of an airplane in which each of its sections serve as different districts such as government, commercial, residential and cultural.

Brasilia’s new and creative architecture attracts many visitors. Most significant is the Three Powers Square, which houses the Presidential Palace , the Congress and the Supreme Court. Other important buildings include the Palácio da Alvorada, the President’s official residence and the TV Tower. The Brasilia Cathedral with its glass roof that resembles hands reaching up to heaven is a must visit.

In addition to all its concrete, steel and glass, Brasilia also features a large artificial lake and several beautiful parks that all offer a variety of leisure activities. The capital is also an important transportation hub for travel within Brazil.

14. Ouro Preto

Tucked away among the mountains of Minas Gerais, Ouro Preto is the most picturesque, popular, and well-preserved colonial town in Brazil. As it was one of the main centers of the Brazilian Gold Rush , wealth and riches poured into its streets – along with the power and prestige that came with it.

Strung out across a series of hills, its historic center is full of steep, winding cobbled streets that meander past gorgeous old buildings and 18th-century churches. The small city also has several interesting museums for visitors to check out; many of these focus on the artworks of Aleijandinho or Ouro Preto’s mining past.

Many people visit the city for its rich history and culture or to visit the numerous mines via a guided tour. In recent years, Ouro Preto’s colorful carnival has attracted more and more revelers to its ancient streets.

Lying in the southwest corner of Mato Grosso do Sul, the small city of Bonito is a great place to go in Brazil if you are looking to explore the gorgeous Pantanal region. While there’s not all that much to see or do in the town itself, it has long been the posterchild of sustainable ecotourism in Brazil.

Awash with natural wonders, the area surrounding Bonito is home to sparkling waterfalls, gushing rivers, and huge sinkholes and lake-filled caves that you can go swimming or snorkeling in. Hiking in the lush rainforest is also popular, with lots of colorful fauna and flora to be spied in Serra da Bodoquena National Park .

Many companies operate out of Bonito’s pousadas, and excursions usually focus on the Pantanal’s rich ecology and ecosystems. Among the most popular are snorkeling below underwater stalagmites at Anhumas Abyss, enjoying a canopy walk in the rainforest, and exploring Blue Lake Cave – one of the largest flooded caves in the world.

12. Fortaleza

Nice beaches, dynamic shopping and lively culture all make Fortaleza one of Brazil’s popular tourist destinations. The capital of the Ceará state on the country’s northeastern coast, Fortaleza is Brazil’s fifth largest city, well-known for its forró music .

Featuring a mix of colonial and modern day architecture, Fortaleza offers plenty of things to see and do. Praça do Ferreira is the city’s main square where restaurants, shops and a movie theater are all located. Praça José de Alencar is another popular square where street performers can be observed.

Fortaleza’s 16 miles of urban beaches are one of the reasons many tourists flock to the city. The most popular beach is Praia do Futuro , but other favorites are Iracema, Mucuripe and Meireles. Not only are the beaches great for swimming, sunbathing, fishing and surfing competitions, but they also offer hotels, restaurants and markets. Fortaleza also serves as the jumping-off point for many visitors to truly spectacular beaches, rolling dunes and idyllic fishing villages along the Ceará coast.

The shopping experience in Fortaleza is another of its main attractions. Because the city is home to a large textile industry, clothing is cheap here. Local handicrafts and fresh seafood and produce can be found among the city’s markets while the Iguatemi Mall offers a little of everything.

11. Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park

Home to sparkling lakes, dramatic waterfalls , and stunning landscapes – as well as some of the oldest and most biodiverse tropical ecosystems in the world – Chapada dos Veadeiros really is a treat to explore. Covering a huge area in the center of Brazil, the marvelous microregion can be found in the state of Goias, some three hours drive north of the nation’s capital Brasilia.

Chapada dos Veadeiros’ main attraction is the wonderful national park of the same name that lies atop an ancient rainforest-coated plateau . Scarred by jagged cliffs and crumbling canyons, the park is fascinating to hike around, with lots of awe-inspiring waterfalls hidden away among its verdant flora and fauna.

Other highlights include the appropriately named Moon Valley , which is home to lunar landscapes. Swimming and bathing in any one of the numerous waterfalls and rivers that dot the area is a must-do. The two main places to stay when visiting Chapada dos Veadeiros are Alta Paraiso and Sao Jorge, a small city and village which lie not too far from all of the main sights.

A paradise of tropical forests, waterfalls, emerald sea and coastal mountains, Parati is a popular tourist destination located along Brazil’s Green Coast in the Rio de Janeiro state. Also spelled Paraty, this beautiful city is a former Portuguese colony established on the shores of the Bay of Ilha Grande.

The heart of Parati is its historic center with cobbled streets and multicolored colonial houses, many of which now serve as bed-and-breakfast accommodations called pousadas . Some of the most visited attractions here are the colonial defense forts that still boast original walls and cannons. The historic center of Parati is pedestrian-only .

Surrounding the city are several beautiful parks and nature preserves where visitors can hike and explore the natural setting of mangrove forest, waterfalls and wildlife. There are also indigenous villages here that can be visited. The bay offers gorgeous beaches where visitors can enjoy swimming, kayaking, snorkeling, diving and boat cruises.

Nicknamed the “ Venice of Brazil ” because of its numerous waterways and bridges, Recife is the capital of the Pernambuco state and one of the largest and most important cities on Brazil’s northeastern coast. Situated amid tropical forests with many islands and rivers, Recife is an interesting place to visit because of its historic old town, beaches and vibrant culture.

Recife was a Dutch colony during the early 17th century, and nowhere is this more evident than the city’s historic district where many colonial buildings still remain. Some of the most significant structures include the oldest synagogue in the Americas and one of Brazil’s most beautiful baroque churches, the Franciscan Convent of Saint Anthony.

Saint Peter Square is also noted for its history and picturesque setting of colorful buildings, shops and restaurants.

The city’s main market, the Sao José Market , is a popular place to find traditional handicrafts, medicinal herbs and locally produced food. Recife’s beaches are considered some of the best in Brazil. Lined with hotels, restaurants and bars, Boa Viagem is the most popular beach with its pristine white sands, clear water and coral reef.

8. Chapada Diamantina National Park

Created in 1985 to protect, preserve, and promote its spectacular scenery and rich ecosystems, Chapada Diamantina National Park lies in the northeast of Brazil in the center of the state of Bahia. Popular among nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, the park encompasses everything from dramatic mountain ranges and sweeping valleys to teeming rivers and towering waterfalls.

As it is set atop of a plateau, the park is very mountainous, with its tallest peaks reaching more than 2,000 meters. Crumbling, rugged cliffs line the plateau, as do lots of epic waterfalls ; the awe-inspiring 380-metre-high Cachoeira da Fumaca is the tallest in Brazil. Cavernous caves also punctuate its rugged terrain, with Lapa Doce and Pratinha two of the largest.

Thanks to its diverse landscapes and gorgeous scenery, Chapada Diamantina National Park is an increasingly popular tourist destination. Visitors can choose to either camp or stay in one of the small towns, such as Lencois and Vale de Capao. Horseback riding and hiking are popular pastimes, as is swimming in the rivers and pools of the area.

One of Brazil’s best-preserved colonial cities, Olinda is located on the country’s Atlantic Coast in the northeastern state of Pernambuco. Founded by the Portuguese in the early 16th century, the city served as the state’s capital until it was burned by the Dutch, thereafter losing its sovereignty to its nearby neighbor, Recife.

Perched on a picturesque hilltop surrounded by trees, Olinda’s historic downtown is a treasure trove of colonial churches, colorful old houses and numerous artisan studios. Because of its love affair with art, Olinda packs many shops and markets selling paintings, ceramics, sculptures and handicrafts.

Every year, Olinda hosts its lively Carnival celebration that differs somewhat from those of Rio de Janeiro and Salvador in that Olinda’s festival is best at daytime and features the music, dances and traditions of African culture . Olinda’s Carnival involves parades, lavish costumes, giant puppet dolls, street parties and the rhythms of maracatu and frevo.

However, even outside of the Carnival season, Olinda offers an animated culture where every weekend buzzes with parties, bars, nightclubs and singing groups who perform serenades of traditional songs in the streets.

6. Pantanal

Covering a vast swathe of western Brazil, as well as parts of Paraguay and Bolivia , the Pantanal is the world’s largest and most diverse tropical wetland area. Due to its stunning scenery and incredible wildlife, the region is increasingly popular to visit, although its remote and watery nature does pose a few challenges.

During the rainy season, around 80 percent of the floodplains are submerged, so the only way to get around is by plane or boat. It is worth it, however; the endless marshes and grasslands are home to an astounding array of fauna and flora.

Besides exploring the scenic landscapes ranging from swamps and savanna to lakes, forests, and wetlands, visitors are also sure to spot many caiman and capybara . The highlight of any trip is spotting the South American jaguar ; the Pantanal is the best place on the continent to catch a glimpse of the elusive creature.

5. Florianopolis

The capital of Santa Catarina state, Florianopolis lies in the south of Brazil, with half of the city set on the mainland and the other on a beautiful island . Due to its scenic setting, it is a very popular tourist destination and is widely considered one of the best places to live in the country.

An important economic, cultural, and political center, Florianopolis is a modern city with lots of large shopping malls and chic restaurants, as well as lively bars and nightclubs. Despite this, it is a lovely laidback place, and each of its neighborhoods has its own distinct identity.

The main attraction, however, is the wealth of fabulous beaches . While relaxing in the gorgeous scenery is divine, Florianopolis also has stunning dunes, sparkling waterfalls, and forested mountains – as well as a large lagoon for visitors to explore. Hiking and cycling around the ‘Magic Island’ (which it is also known as) are popular activities, as are paragliding and watersports.

The capital of the Amazonas state in northwestern Brazil, Manaus is an important tourist destination because it serves as a gateway to the Amazon rainforest .

As a result of the region’s flourishing rubber industry during the early 20th century, Manaus today is Northern Brazil’s largest metropolitan area, featuring distinguished landmarks like the Amazonas Opera House , the Adolpho Lisboa Market and the Rio Negro Palace.

Not only is the port of Manaus an important commercial hub for several manufacturing industries, but it also serves as the most popular starting point for river tours into the Amazon rainforest. Some of the most striking things to see on these tours include the Paricatuba Waterfall, Love Cascade and glimpses of the Pied tamarin, Brazil’s most endangered monkey. Another significant sight is the Meeting of the Waters , which is a natural phenomenon where the two rivers of Negro and Solimões run side by side for more than three miles without mixing.

Besides the rainforest and river, Manus also offers public parks, a botanical garden and a zoo. Several beaches are here as well such as Ponta Negra with a number of restaurants, bars and hotels.

3. Salvador

A historic Old City, beautiful beaches, lively culture and one of the world’s biggest Carnival celebrations all fashion Salvador into one of Brazil’s top tourist destinations. One of the oldest cities in the Americas, Salvador is Brazil’s third largest city and the capital of the Bahia state.

Formerly a major center of sugar and slave trade, Salvador today still bears traces of its history in Pelourinho or Old City, which features colonial architecture, stunning churches and plazas where important events once occurred. Also found in the old quarter are many restaurants, bars, art galleries and handicraft shops. Contrastively, Salvador’s New City district is where all the modern day developments of shopping megaplexes, entertainment venues, golf courses and residential neighborhoods are located.

Situated on the coast of the Bay of All Saints, Salvador offers fantastic beaches that are ideal for sunbathing, swimming and surfing. Some of the most popular include Porto de Barra, Flamengo and Stella Maris.

One of Salvador’s main crowd-pullers is its annual Carnival celebration . Acclaimed as one of the largest in the world, this extravagant event involves music, dancing, parades, costumes and street parties.

2. Foz do Iguacu

One of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders in the world, Iguazu Falls straddles the Argentine-Brazilian border. It is often compared to Niagara Falls and Victoria Falls, such is its staggering size and scale. Surrounded by dense rainforest, its endless series of cascades stretch for almost three kilometers, making it the largest waterfall system in the world.

Every second, incalculable gallons of water from the Iguazu River course over the Parana Plateau, plunging onto the rocks and pools below. While 80 percent of the falls are in Argentina , it is the Brazilian side that offers the most spectacular views, with Devil’s Throat canyon being the highlight.

Besides gazing in awe at Iguazu Falls and taking in the deafening roar, visitors can take a boat ride beneath the falls or go hiking in the steamy rainforest that surrounds them. The gateway to the falls on the Brazilian side is Foz do Iguaçu, a big and reasonably safe city by Brazilian standards.

1. Rio de Janeiro

There is no destination on earth more animated and exciting than Rio de Janeiro. Located in southeastern Brazil, Rio de Janeiro is the most visited city of South America due to its famous mountains, beaches and Carnival festival.

Rio de Janeiro is situated on one of the world’s largest harbors surrounded by natural attractions that include the Sugarloaf and Corcovado mountains and famous beaches like Copacabana and Ipanema . Within this sprawling metropolis is Tijuca National Park , one of the world’s largest urban forests, teeming in native flora and fauna.

The city’s iconic landmark is the enormous Christ the Redeemer statue sitting atop Corcovado mountain. Other important landmarks include colonial fortresses, former presidential palaces and Maracanã Stadium, one of the world’s largest football stadiums.

See also: Where to Stay in Rio de Janeiro

Sadly, most people also know Rio for its crime and favelas. The favelas are areas of poor-quality housing, slums usually located on the city’s many mountain slopes, juxtaposed with middle-class neighborhoods.

Rio de Janerio is home to one of the world’s largest Carnival celebrations , renowned for its vibrant parades, costumes, dancing, music, fireworks and street parties. Outside of the festival, the city buzzes nightly with an abundance of bars and dance clubs.

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Reader interactions.

October 11, 2019 at 3:37 am

I would also recommend Maceió. Beautiful beaches, great nightlife and safer than the big cities. But, you can’t go to Brasil for the 1st time and not go to Rio (my hometown for 16 years/Copacabana). As one person said above, do your homework before you go and you should be safe. Don’t dress like a gringo… just saying!?

February 16, 2019 at 3:44 pm

I highly recommend you guys to go to Porto de Galinhas (translates to…Hen’s Harbour, yeah), i’ve been there a couple of times and it’s one of the most beautiful places i’ve ever been, with amazing beaches, some handicraft fairs (that show a lot of brazilian’s northeastern culture) and splendid sights and hotels.

March 30, 2018 at 8:04 am

I recommend “Porto de Galinhas-Pernambuco” and “Maragogi-Alagoas”. Paradise! They are safe places. Really Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo are very dangerous.

June 29, 2017 at 7:44 pm

@Laura Morgenstern, I have to say that there are some places that are dangerous. But people generalize about it. Like most countries, there ares some dangerous neighborhoods but it is not the entire country. There are very safe cities, and I’m sure that if you speak with local people they will tell you where you have to avoid going to. There are amazing places in Brazil that some people don’t know about such as Gramado, Aguas de Lindóia, Brotas – radical sports in the water, Balneário camboriu

June 11, 2017 at 1:23 pm

Isla do Mel……amazing! Curitiba, fantastic city.

January 10, 2017 at 3:52 pm

And about Espirito Santo… Beaches. Guarapari and Vila Velha and beautiful mountains like Domingos Martins with a wonderful wine by the fireplace

December 22, 2016 at 12:19 am

I went to Brazil for three weeks this summer and there weren’t any cases that made me feel uncomfortable or where I felt unsafe. I was in both Sao Paulo and Rio de Janiero during my trip. I wouldn’t recommend going to certain parts of both cities because there are gangs but if you do your research you’ll be able to figure out where not to go and what is safe.

My trip was absolutely amazing and I would recommend going if you ever get the opportunity.

October 20, 2016 at 9:33 am

Gramado is the best city

June 30, 2016 at 12:46 pm

I think Brazil is a beautiful place, but ‘s very dangerous. It’s true?

November 23, 2015 at 11:07 am

Thank you for recommending all these interesting places. My husband I are thinking to go to Brazil next year but I do not wish to go to big cities – may go to Rio for a few days only and then travel to other small places. Which ones would you recommend – We are not beach people. Like the culture and ”naturaleza” from these places people are recommending? which is the best time to go?

October 13, 2015 at 8:21 pm

Forget about the big cities in Brazil… The best and safest tourism here is in small and fantastic places. Keep noted: 1. Bonito – Is, by far, the most amazing place in Brazil!!! There you can swim in small rivers with several fishes and enjoy the real nature 2. Fernando de Noronha – Is an isolated island in the north east of Brazil. Destination of the Hollywood movie stars. You can swim with dolphins or sharks. Amazing beaches and is a very calm place. 3. Iguaçú falls (Foz de Iguaçú) – Much bigger than niagara falls and really beautiful. You can feel the power of nature there. 4. Chapada dos Veadeiros – A lot of water falls and a mistic place. Great site to meditate and to be in touch with yourself.

All these places are safe and really cheap if you have Dollars or Euros. Forget the big cities…

June 12, 2015 at 12:07 am

I do not speak English , I am using a translator , sorry . Anyway , I wanted to leave my opinion ‘m from São Paulo SP Brazil ( love this place <3) , and put the ranking as: 1 – Maranhão – National Park Maranhenses 2 – Amazonas – Manaus, located in the center of the largest tropical forest in the world 3 – Bahia – Morro sp 4 – Bahia – Chapada Diamantina National Park 5 – Pernambuco – Porto de Galinhas 6 – Ceará -the beach of Canoa Quebrada 7 – Rio de Janeiro – Paraty 8 – Minas Gerais – Sao Tome das letras 9 – São Paulo – SP ( Paulista Avenue, Ibirapuera Park) 10 – Rio de Janeiro – RJ

Sao Paulo has little beauty , but it's where you find the best hotels, bars, parties and museums in Brazil.

May 15, 2015 at 6:47 pm

I think that you should mention Mato Grosso do Sul ( Bonito the city) , crystal clear waters, a lot of different animals. It s amazing and perfect

July 30, 2014 at 3:49 pm

Christ the Redeemer statue sitting atop Corcovado mountain is wonderful and unbelievable! I really want to visit that place 🙂 Great!

July 24, 2014 at 10:16 am

I think you should put Graemado and Canela (two cities of Rio Grande do Sul) too! It doesn’t have beaches, but it’s like a cold paradis. It’s VERY beautiful and there are a lot of cultural attractions. I would recommend the dates around Easter and Christmas (specially the last one), because there’s really maaaany beautiful things. During the winter it’s very cold and good to stay there! It’s awesome

May 27, 2014 at 10:58 am

Brazil is Amazing and Fascinating!! I hope I visit it soon and the first place ide love to visit is amazingly the Rio De Jeneiro!! ..its the most wonderful place I’ve heard of and apart from this comes the iguazu Falls..SPLENDID..its Paradise On Earth!..

May 23, 2014 at 6:18 pm

You should visit the south too, specially Rio Grande do Sul, where many cities still conserve the german and italian culture! June and july is the best time of the year

May 14, 2014 at 12:21 pm

Wow, I never knew there were so many beautiful cities in Brazil! I visited Floripa and it IS beautiful!

Please add it between 2 and 6!!

May 8, 2014 at 11:30 am

I agree with you! There are a lot of beautiful cities in Brazil to visit!! Not just São Paulo e Rio de Janeiro! Floripa is very beautiful too

April 14, 2014 at 7:44 am

Thanks for mentioned Sao Paulo!

January 7, 2014 at 2:01 pm

I also would put Floripa between 3 and 6 for sure!

December 26, 2013 at 10:15 pm

I want to understand how Florianopolis isn’t in that list…

December 10, 2013 at 5:55 pm

I appreciate your information about the top ten in Brasil.. But I would like to inform another city: Ouro Preto, very interesting,, cultural and beautiful , the first capital of the important Minas Gerais state. Rich Baroque, churchs from the XVII and XVIII, is a place very important to the cultural tourism. All the gold from Brasil to Europe, in these centuries came from OURO PRETO ( black gold) regions , the name of this city, in the heart of Brazil, between mountains, near the new Capital of Minas Gerais State: Belo Horizonte.

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Home » Travel Guides » 15 Best Places to Visit in Brazil

15 Best Places to Visit in Brazil

Have you been itching for lush rainforests, fantastic cities, tropical islands, and heavenly beaches?  Then you’ve been itching for a Brazilian adventure. You’ll find colonial towns that will make you feel that you’ve stepped back in time, red-rock canyons that will make you feel that you’ve stepped onto another planet, and awe-inspiring waterfalls and jungles that will make you wish you could stay forever.

Brazil is the country of Carnaval, a celebration that takes over every city and every soul. You won’t believe the human capacity for fun and joy until you experience this festas. Ask yourself what you want in your next holiday, and Brazil is guaranteed to have it on offer.

Diverse ecosystems, with rare and wild plant and animal species unique to all other places on earth, kayaking through rainforests, horseback riding, whale watching, snorkelling in coastal reefs, samba dancing, all-night DJ’s, white sand beaches, history, culture, and big, full-power cities. Let’s explore the best places to visit in Brazil !

1. Rio de Janeiro

There’s just no other place like Rio.  Welcome to lush mountains, brilliant beaches, over the top nightlife, and fanatic football fans. Known as Cidade Maravilhosa, the Marvellous City, Rio is ringed by green mountains while the coast stretches for miles.

Most people come first for the beaches.  The cariocas (locals) consider the beach a home away from home and so much happens here that you could never leave and still have a complete vacation. You’ll love biking on the beach, hiking in Tijuca rainforest, hang gliding, rock climbing, and sailing to one of several small islands just off the coast.

Music is everywhere in the city – with the most popular being the African influenced samba vibe. If you want to explore the nightlife, head to Lapa, the cities red-light distinct. You’ll find live music and street parties every night.

2. Salvador

Located in the state of Bahia, Salvador has a phenomenal energy that’s notable even for Brazil.  Most known for being Portugal’s New World capital, it maintains a great deal of its colonial architecture and you’ll find the historic centre of the town in the Pelourinho neighbourhood.

Here you’ll find large squares with small cobblestone alleys leading away, multi-coloured buildings, and churches like São Francisco with gilt woodwork and other baroque features. There’s an amazing arts movement here. You’ll find Olodum drummers on the streets, along with Capoeira martial artists, and crazy festivals happening everywhere you look.

The culture here is decidedly Afro-Brazilian and you’ll see that in the incredible food, religious ceremonies and rituals, and dance.

3. São Paulo State

Another in the long list of incredible things about Brazil is São Paulo state. It offers some of the best of the best that the country has to offer.  São Paulo city is the current Boom Town – everything here is growing:  commerce, industry, culture, finance, and, of course, tourism. But you can also leave the city for a bit and head to Serra da Mantiqueira.

Use this stunning mountain range, with its 2500m peaks, as your cosy mountain getaway. There’s also Ilhabela, to be used as your posh island escape. Or try Iporanga in the midst of the Brazilian Atlantic Forest.

You’ll also find great beaches with the rainforest as their backdrop – try the lovely Ubatuba for a relaxing few days.

4. São Paulo City

The heartbeat of São Paulo State is Sao Paulo city.  It’s the largest city in Brazil and one of the largest in the world.  It’s a bit of a melting pot, with all kinds of ethnic groups calling it home, including the largest community of Japanese outside of Japan.

You’ll find unbelievable art galleries and experimental theatres, as well as fantastic fine-dining restaurants and upscale bars.  If you want a taste of sophisticated city life, this is your stop.

With 20 million people, Sao Paulo is a mammoth city, and does come with a lot of big city hassles, but for those willing to look a little closer; there is a vibe here that rivals New York City.

5. Brasilia

Built in the 1960’s, Brazil’s capital is a thoroughly planned and intricately organized city. Brasilia’s landmark infrastructure is laid out in the form of an airplane.

Each section of the plane is a different district like residential, government, finance, culture, and commerce.  The architecture here attracts tourists and professional architects alike.

Be sure to check out the Three Powers Square.  Here you’ll find the Supreme Court, Congress, and the Presidential Palace.

6. Fortaleza

Another of Brazil’s big cities is Fortaleza.  It’s best known for an energetic cultural scenes, great beaches, and even greater shopping. If you’re going for the beaches, check out Meireles, Mucuripe, Iracema, and everyone’s favourite, Praia do Futuro.

Spend your mornings strolling through Centro, the oldest part of the city, and then spending your evenings in Praira de Iracema, a neighbourhood densely packed with hotels, restaurants, and nightlife.

Once you’ve had your fill of Fortaleza beaches, use it as starting point to discover the quaint fishing villages and rolling dune beaches of the Ceará coast.

One of the most popular stops for tourists is located along Brazil’s Green Coast in the state of Rio de Janeiro.  Paraty is bursting with waterfalls, emerald green sea, giant coastal mountains and tropical forests.

Once a Portuguese colony, the heart of the town is still the historic centre. Complete with multicoloured colonial buildings and cobbled streets built in the 17th century during the height of the Brazilian gold rush.  Many of the houses have been converted to bed and breakfasts’ which the locals call pousadas.  The entire historic district is great for strolling as the lanes are closed to cars.  It really feels like you’ve stepped back in time.

Don’t forget to check out the colonial forts – many that still have their original cannons – and Capela de Santa Rita, a lovely 18th century church.

There is nothing not to love about the “Venice of Brazil.”  Inside the city is a network of waterways, bridges, islets, and peninsulas, and just outside are tropical rainforests with rivers and islands to explore.  There is a wonderful historic old town here, as well as incredible culture and fantastic beaches.

The old town is known as Recife Antigo and is located on its own island near the harbour. Most would agree that Boa Viagem is the most popular beach in town due to the white sands and coral reef.

Recife is a large city with lots to offer – including an awesome place to spend Carnaval.

Six kilometres from Recife is Olinda, is a 16th century Portuguese colonial town. The historic old town sits on a hill surrounded by trees and filled with churches, museums, and restaurants. In 1982 it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site.  The rest of the town is no less charming with tons of 18th century architecture, monasteries and convents, and fantastically painted houses.

Once a leader in the sugarcane industry, Olinda has transformed into a small artists’ colony; full of artists, workshops, studios, and other creative types.  Check out the pousadas in the old town if you’re interested in using Olinda as a base to enjoy Recife.

Carnaval is slightly different here, celebrated primarily during the day with the music and dance focused on traditional African culture.

Considered by many as the gateway to the Amazon Rainforest, Manaus sits on the Negro River. The capital of Amazonas and one of the largest cities in the country it has incredible landmarks like the Rio Negro Palace and the Amazonas Opera House.

If you’re in the mood for some phenomenal nature, check out the Meeting of the Waters, a three mile stretch where the Solimões and the Negro Rivers run side by side without fully mixing. Eventually, both rivers converge to form the Amazon. Most people come here as a stopping point on their way into, or out of, the Amazon.

If you’ve got time, check out the zoo that lets many of the animals roam free, and a little beachside museum just outside the city centre.

11. Iguazu Falls

This stunning natural wonder runs for 2.7km along the border with Argentina.

Iguazu Falls is a series of waterfalls along the Iguazu. The combination of luscious green forest, exotic wildlife, and breathtaking waterfalls is intoxicating.

Use the city of Foz do Iguaçu as your base camp as you enjoy cascades like the 80 metre Devil’s Throat.  With hundreds of fall’s to discover, you might consider a tour in one of the tourist rubber boats called zodiacs.

Bonito is a one-street town full of charisma.  It serves as an ecotourism model for Brazil and as a hub for the surrounding areas.  If you’re an outdoor adventurer and water enthusiast, then this is your spot.

Discover Abismo Anhumas, a gigantic cavern covered in stalactite where you can dive and swim in an underground lake as well as do some abseiling.  Or how about snorkelling in the crystal clear Rio da Prata? If you’re a bird lover you won’t want to miss the macaws that nest deep in the Buraco das Araras.

To top it all off, explore the Serra da Boduquena National Park.

13. São Luís

The historic centre of São Luís has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to its well-restored colonial mansions. There are so many museums, crafts, and galleries to explore while here.

São Luís maintains a largely Afro-Brazilian culture and you’ll find both reggae and Bumba Meu Boi music festivals. While you’re here be sure to catch the Centro de Cultura, a museum with exhibits on the three major Brazilian festivals.  You might also like the Archaeological Museum and the Casa das Tulhas, a 19th century market building.

When you’re ready, cross the Baía de São Marcos for a quick day trip to Alcântara to see this historic town as it slowly slips into tropical decay.

14. Jijoca de Jericoacoara

This hidden gem is one of the spectacular beaches in Ceara, Brazil. Named by the Washington Post as one of the Top 10 Most Beautiful Beaches in the world, you’ll find calm seas, white sand dunes, and gorgeous blue lagoons.

It’s a nesting spot for large turtles and therefore was declared an Environmental Protection Area; it’s also been a national park since 2002. Thanks to all that, the area has remained largely isolated and untouched.

They’ve had electricity for less than 20 years in Jeri and thanks to local ordinance; the streets can only be lit by the moon.

15. Curitiba

This thoroughly urban capital of Paraná state is a well-known performance centre.  Visit the Wire Opera, a steel tube building with a see-through roof, as well as the Guaíra Theatre for some great programs.

Curitiba is also well known to urban planners across the globe as one of the most efficient cities ever built.  You’ll find a six-block stretch designated as a pedestrian zone, tones of parks and trees, innovative solutions to urban problems like pollution and poverty.

It’s a unique place to recharge before ending your Brazilian adventure.

15 Best Places to Visit in Brazil:

• Rio de Janeiro
• São Paulo State
• São Paulo City
• Iguazu Falls
• Jijoca de Jericoacoara

Must-see attractions in Brazil

Parque Nacional da Tijuca

Rio de Janeiro

The Tijuca is all that's left of the Atlantic rainforest that once surrounded Rio de Janeiro. This 39-sq-km tropical-jungle preserve is an exuberant green…

Pão de Açúcar

Seen from the peak of Pão de Açúcar, Rio is undoubtedly a Cidade Maravilhosa (Marvelous City). There are many good times to make the ascent, but sunset on…

Copacabana Beach

A magnificent confluence of land and sea, the long, scalloped beach of Copacabana extends for some 4km, with a flurry of activity along its length: over…

Reserva Extrativista Baixo Rio Branco-Jauaperi

This newly minted extractive reserve is an outstanding place to immerse yourself in the best the Amazon has to offer, with excellent wildlife-watching –…

Parque Nacional da Chapada Diamantina

Spanning over 1520 sq km and containing within it innumerable species of plants and animals, deafening waterfalls and vast, rugged plains, Parque Nacional…

Parque Nacional Marinho de Fernando de Noronha

Fernando de Noronha

Covering around 70% of the main island and all the surrounding sea, Parque Nacional Marinho de Fernando de Noronha contains most of the archipelago's must…

Instituto de Arte Contemporânea Inhotim

Belo Horizonte

The world's largest open-air contemporary art museum, and greater Belo Horizonte's standout attraction, this sprawling, world-class complex of gardens…

Edifício Copan

Copan was designed by late modernist master Oscar Niemeyer. The building, with its serpentine facade and narrow brises soleil (permanent sunshades), is…

Mercado Municipal

This covered market is a belle epoque confection of stained glass and a series of vast domes. Inside, a fabulous urban market specializes in all things…

Praia do Campeche

Santa Catarina

The 3.5km Praia do Campeche is one of Floripa's five-star beaches, an absolute stunner of sun-kissed perfection with wind conditions lending themselves to…

Baía do Sancho

The most stunning stretch of sand on an island of magnificent beaches, Baía do Sancho is a protected cove of brilliant turquoise waters backed by forest…

Parque Nacional Serra dos Órgaos – Teresópolis Entrance

Rio de Janeiro State

About 6km south of Teresópolis, off the BR-116 Rio–Teresópolis highway, you'll find the main (and most accessible) entrance to magnificent Parque Nacional…

Maracanã Football Stadium

Rio’s Maracanã stadium is hallowed ground among football lovers. The massive arena has been the site of legendary victories and crushing defeats. Maracanã…

Floresta Nacional do Tapajós

If you came to the Amazon to see primary rainforest, look no further than the Floresta Nacional do Tapajós. Wildlife is a possibility – from birds to…

Museu Oscar Niemeyer

Designed by and named for the architect responsible for much of Brasília, this striking museum features an iconic eye-shaped tower painted with whimsical…

Jardim Botânico Adolpho Ducke

Spanning over 100 sq km, this 'garden' is actually the world’s largest urban forest. There's a network of five short trails (guides and closed shoes…

Serra do Aracá State Park

Although this state park was established in 1990 to preserve the unique canyons carved out by the Rio Aracá, it wasn't until recently that the massive…

The floodplains east and southeast of Santarém are among the Amazon's most rewarding excursions. Flooded for much of the year, the plains are home to…

Parque Nacional da Serra da Capivara

One of Brazil's most important national parks, this 1300-sq-km reserve contains more than 40,000 rock paintings among spectacular panoramas of immense…

Parque Nacional de Aparados da Serra

Rio Grande do Sul

Located 18km southeast of Cambará do Sul, this magnificent park occupies 102.5 sq km on the border between Rio Grande do Sul and Santa Catarina. It's here…

Parque Nacional do Itatiaia

Brazil’s oldest national park, Itatiaia shelters a stunning variety of landscapes, from dense rainforests to spare and rugged upland peaks. Most visitors…

Museu de Arte do Rio

Looming large over Praça Mauá, the MAR is an icon for the rebirth of Rio's once derelict port. The huge museum hosts wide-ranging exhibitions that focus…

Itaipu Binacional

Foz do Iguaçu

With a capacity of 14 million kilowatts, this binational dam is the world's second-largest hydroelectric power station, and the one that produces the most…

Teatro Amazonas

This gorgeous theater was built at the height of the rubber boom, using European designers, decorators and even raw materials. The original driveway was…

Mercado Ver-o-Peso

The name of this waterfront market, with its iconic four-turreted structure at its southwestern end, comes from colonial times, when the Portuguese would…

Praça dos Trés Poderes

This square is a focal point of the city design, a synthesis of the ideas of architects Niemeyer and Costa, combining various monuments, museums and…

Encontro das Águas

Just beyond Manaus, the warm dark Rio Negro pours into the cool creamy Rio Solimões, but because of differences in temperature, speed and density, their…

Parque Nacional Serra dos Órgãos

Created in 1939, this high country park straddling the Serra dos Órgãos (Organ Pipe Range) just north of Rio is best known for its spectacular mountain…

Oficina Cerâmica Francisco Brennand

Francisco Brennand, born in 1927 into an Irish immigrant family and now considered Brazil’s greatest ceramicist, revitalized his family’s abandoned tile…

Parque Estadual do Alto do Ribeira

São Paulo State

This 357-sq-km state park, with its 450 cataloged caves, is known as Brazil’s Capital das Grutas (Cave Capital). The park's Núcleos de Visitação (Visitor…

Museu de Arte de São Paulo

Sampa’s pride, this museum possesses Latin America’s most comprehensive collection of Western art. Hovering above a concrete plaza that turns into an…

Igreja NS do Bonfim

This famous 18th-century church, located a few kilometers north of Comércio on the Itapagipe Peninsula, is the source of the fitas (colored ribbons) you…

Parque Nacional Serra dos Órgaos – Vale do Bonfim Entrance

Up a dirt road in the foothills 20km northeast of Petrópolis, this remote entrance to Parque Nacional Serra dos Órgaos grants immediate access to a…

Praia da Trindade

About 25km south of Paraty, Trindade occupies a long sweep of stunningly beautiful coastline. Here you can lounge or hike along four of Brazil’s most…

Piscinas Naturais

Porto de Galinhas

A major factor in Porto Galinhas' popularity is the collection of amazing tidal pools full of tropical fish that appear in the coral reefs around 100m in…

Mazuma Mineira

Minas Gerais

If you've ever wondered how cachaça (Brazil's famous sugarcane alcohol) is made, this is a perfect place to learn. This small-scale alambique (distillery)…

Mosteiro São Bento

Among the city’s oldest and most important churches, São Bento dates to 1598, though its neo-Gothic facade dates only to the early 20th century. Step…

Congresso Nacional

Featuring photogenic roof ‘dishes’ and twin towers, the Congresso Nacional has one of the more interesting interiors in the city. In addition to the color…

Parque Unipraias

Camboriú's pride and joy is this six-hectare urban reserve. In addition to 500m of walking trails, the real coup is the amusements, which are sold…

Palácio da Alvorada

The official presidential residence, the Palácio da Alvorada, is a Niemeyer building constructed in 1958. It was the first edifice in the city to be…

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• Brazil Travel Guide

Top 10 Brazil Tourist Attractions You Have To See

The largest country in South America, Brazil occupies almost half the continent. Nearly all of it is in the Southern Hemisphere, and much of it is tropical, with vast stretches of rainforest filled with exotic plants and wildlife. The country’s 4600-mile-long Atlantic coast is lined with golden-sand beaches, and its interior is filled with mineral resources. Portugal was the colonial power that ruled Brazil until 1822. The national language is Portuguese and a strong Portuguese influence is evident in Brazil’s colonial architecture and decorative arts. Below are what we consider the top attractions worth visiting on a vacation to Brazil .

Cristo Redentor

Christ the Redeemer

One of Brazil’s most iconic monuments and Rio’s most visited attraction , the statue of Christ the Redeemer was completed in 1931 and stands 98 feet tall, with horizontally outstretched arms spanning 92 feet. The work of Polish-French sculptor Paul Landowski and Brazilian engineer Heitor da Silva Costa is made of reinforced concrete clad in a mosaic of thousands of triangular soapstone tiles. The statue stands on a square stone pedestal about 26 feet high, which itself is situated on a deck atop the mountain’s summit. The base encloses a chapel that is popular for weddings. The statue has become emblematic of both the city of Rio de Janeiro and the whole nation of Brazil and is the largest Art Deco-style sculpture in the world.

In addition to the symbolic importance within the Catholic community, the statue is also one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and provides spell-binding views over Rio de Janeiro and the bay from the summit of Corcovado, 2310 feet above the city. The area on which it stands is part of the Tijuca National Park, and a rack railway climbs two miles to a broad plaza at the top. A mid-point stop on the railway leads to trails through the Tijuca National Park, replete with springs, waterfalls, and a wide variety of tropical birds, butterflies, and plants.

Way to experience the falls

Iguaçu Falls

At the point where Brazil, Paraguay, and Argentina meet, ten miles before joining the Parana River, the Iguaçu River flows over rough, uneven ground, and then, amidst the exuberant forest, spectacularly hurls itself into a semicircular chain of 247 irregular waterfalls that thunder down into the gorge below. Just above the falls, the river is constricted to a quarter of its usual width, making the force of the water even stronger. Some of the falls are more than 330 feet high and they cover such a broad area that you’ll never see all of them at once, but you do get the broadest panorama from the Brazilian side.

A visit to the Iguazu falls is a heart-stopping, visceral experience, while the power and noise of the cascades, which extend nearly 1.85 miles, will live forever in your memory. The falls lie split between Brazil and Argentina in the UNESCO-acclaimed Iguaçu National Park, where subtropical rainforests are home to more than 1,000 species of birds and mammals, including deer, otters, ocelots, and capybaras. Catwalks and a tower offer different perspectives, and one bridge reaches all the way to the largest water curtain, known as the Garganta do Diabo (Devil’s Throat), which drops more than 262 feet into a creamy white pool. You can cross to the Argentinian side for closer views from catwalks that extend farther into the center of the falls. The two sides offer different perspectives and views, so it’s a good idea to plan to see both.

Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro

Occupying a narrow strip of land between the mountains and the sea, Copacabana − downtown Rio’s most fashionable district − follows Avenida Nossa Senhora de Copacabana, and is famous for its magnificent two-and-a-half-mile curved beach. Skyscraper hotels, apartment houses, cafés, shops, nightclubs, restaurants, theatres, live music bars, street fairs, and pubs line the waterfront. The neighborhood is a blend of Brazilian soul; it is crowded, rowdy, and traditional. However, the most powerful draw in Copacabana is still the fantastic view of the coast and the incredible white-sand beach alongside the rolling surf.

The beach is separated from the buildings and the traffic by a broad promenade paved in black and white mosaic in a rippled pattern inspired by Rocio’s Square in Lisbon, Portugal. The huge strip of sand bordering Copacabana Beach is not the result of a natural process; during the ’70s, a large land reclamation increased the area of the beach, which is a popular playground filled with sun-worshippers whenever the weather is fine.

Carnaval (Carnival), Rio de Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro Carnaval is one of Brazil’s top tourist attractions − the mother, the mecca, the king of all carnivals. Every year, just before the beginning of Lent, Rio de Janeiro transforms into the biggest party on the planet, a party that is attended by five million people from all around the world. Few shows match Carnaval’s extravaganza for color, sound, action, and exuberance. This is not just another boisterous street party, but a carefully staged showpiece. The highlight of attending Rio Carnaval is witnessing the world-renowned Samba Parade hosted in a purpose-built stadium called the Sambódromo, where dancers and musicians from the competing samba schools strut their stuff in a dazzling explosion of brilliant costumes.

Carnaval is an exhilarating time to be in Rio, all the businesses unrelated to Carnaval shut down and the Brazilians completely embrace the carnival spirit, joining street parties across the city. You’ll also find Carnivals in Salvador, Bahia, Recife, and other Brazilian cities.

Bordered by Arpoador Beach on one end and Leblon Beach on the other end, Ipanema Beach is considered one of the main centers of activity for the city of Rio and one of the most expensive places to live. Known as the “Little Paris” of Rio, it is renowned for its avant-garde art galleries, bookstores, movie theaters, hotels, restaurants, and cafés, which make it a popular social zone year-round. The same wave design of Copacabana’s wide promenade continues here, separating the sand from the buildings. Sunday is especially busy, with an antique market at Praça de Quentaland and the Feira de Artesanato de Ipanema, alive with music, street food, art, and handcrafts with vendors selling everything from wooden dolls to swizzle sticks topped with parrots, making it fun a festive for families visiting Brazil .

Pelourinho, Salvador

Pelourinho is the historic city center of Brazil’s former colonial capital, Salvador . The cobblestoned streets and vibrantly colored buildings are a picturesque example of how the African, indigenous, and European cultures, which were thrown together in Salvador, have converged throughout the centuries. This old quarter has been named a UNESCO World Heritage site for its exceptional collection of 17th- and 18th-century colonial buildings, the finest such assembly in South America. This is where you’ll find Salvador’s most beautiful churches and monasteries, built at a time when Brazil was the source of Portugal’s riches, and the plentiful gold was lavished on the colony’s religious buildings.

The finest and most opulent of the city’s churches is São Francisco, built in the early 1700s and filled with intricate carvings covered in gold. Pelourinho means “whipping post” in Portuguese, and this was the location of the slave auction in the days when slavery was common. Slavery was outlawed in 1835, and over time, this portion of the city, though home to artists and musicians, fell into disrepair. In the 1990s, a major restoration effort resulted in making the area a highly desirable Brazil tourist attraction.

Ipiranga Museum

Art Museums of Sao Paulo

Sao Paulo holds some of the best collections of fine arts in Latin America, and the buildings in which they are housed are architectural landmarks as well. The Museu de Arte, MASP, is considered the premier art museum in Brazil, displaying the continent’s most comprehensive collection of Western art, with representative works by artists from Classical antiquity, the Renaissance, the Baroque period, along with plentiful works by Brazilian and other Latin American artists. The museum is a Modernist landmark conceived by Italian architect Lina Bo Bardi; bright red concrete elevates the building structure above ground making the museum stand out from the neutral-colored high-rise buildings that surround it. There are 73 bronze sculptures by Degas and works by Renoir, Manet, Van Gogh, Matisse, Picasso, and Miró.

At the Museu de Arte Contemporânea, in Ibirapuera Park, you’ll find more than 8,000 works of art. This is one of Latin America’s largest collections of 20th-century Western art, comprising the most important artists, art movements, and tendencies of modern and contemporary art. It includes works by Picasso, Chagall, Kandinsky, Miró, and Modigliani along with major Brazilian painters. Additionally, Museu do Ipiranga, set above Versailles-inspired formal gardens, houses paintings, and decorative arts.

For a different type of art, don’t miss Batman’s Alley, an open-air gallery of street art by local and international artists. It is in the bohemian Vila Madalena neighborhood, where you’ll also find art galleries showing the works of well-known and rising Brazilian artists and craftspeople.

Cathedral of Brasilia

This striking modernist building is an architectural icon of Brazil, designed by renowned architect Oscar Niemeyer. The round church has 16 concrete columns representing hands raised to heaven. The columns converge to a central elevated circle, soaring 138 feet towards the sky while allowing the natural light to flood in through a glass roof offering a glimpse to the heavens with angels suspended above the congregation. Not only that but the building is surrounded by a shallow pool that reflects its beauty.

Botanical Garden of Curitiba, Paraná

The postcard-worthy botanical garden is one of Curitiba’s main attractions and rightly so because it has an impressive and colorful garden and has a fantastic greenhouse. The Park is packed with flower gardens, with ideal places for picnics. Moreover, the external garden has a lovely French style with beautiful designs and walks between the areas colored by flowers and a fountain that provides beautiful photo opportunities. Inside the glass-and-steel greenhouse, it is possible to see species of plants typical of tropical areas.

Sugarloaf Mountain, Rio de Janeiro

Sugarloaf Mountain is arguably one of the most important tourist attractions in Brazil. The rounded rock peak juts out of a tree-covered promontory, rising nearly 1300 feet above the beaches and the city. Its summit offers jaw-dropping views of Rio and the harbor, together with the thrill of riding suspended in a cable car between SugarLoaf and the Morro da Urca, a lower peak from which a second cableway connects to the city. Rio’s first settlement began below these peaks, near the long Praia da Urca beach, and you can tour one of the three early forts there, the star-shaped Fort São João.

While Rainforest Cruises aim to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we make no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information herein or found by following any link on this site. Rainforest Cruises cannot and will not accept responsibility for any omissions or inaccuracies, or for any consequences arising therefrom, including any losses, injuries, or damages resulting from the display or use of this information.

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Brazil’s Top 30 Tourist Attractions: Discovering the Wonders of South America

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1. christ the redeemer (cristo redentor).

Nico Kaiser , CC BY 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

2. Sugarloaf Mountain (Pão de Açúcar)

Wutzofant. , CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

3. Iguazu Falls (Cataratas do Iguaçu)

Paulo Antonio Santos , CC BY 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

4. Amazon Rainforest

lubasi , CC BY-SA 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

5. Pantanal

Alicia Yo at the English-language Wikipedia , CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

6. Salvador

PT-AVJ , CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

7. Fernando de Noronha

https://upload. wikimedia .org/wikipedia/commons/6/6b/Fernando_de_Noronha_-_dois_Irm%C3%A3os_-_praia_do_sancho.jpg

8. Brasília

Arturdiasr , CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

9. São Paulo

Thomas Hobbs , CC BY-SA 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Daniela de Oliveira Moraes , CC BY 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

11. Ouro Preto

Alvesgaspar , CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Portal da Copa/ME , CC BY 3.0 BR , via Wikimedia Commons

Lampiao3 , Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

14. Chapada dos Veadeiros

Marina Campos Vinhal , CC BY 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

15. Lençóis Maranhenses National Park

Julius Dadalti , CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

16. São Miguel das Missões

JefersonSouza , CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

17. Ilha Grande

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18. Petrópolis

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Mariordo Mario Roberto Duran Ortiz , CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

20. Carnival in Rio de Janeiro

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21. São Paulo Museum of Art (MASP)

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22. Inhotim

Jadderbh , CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

23. Teatro Amazonas

Lucia Barreiros da Silva , CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

24. Serra da Capivara National Park

Paulo César Pamplona Barreto de Sousa , CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

25. Ilhabela

Jurema Oliveira , CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

26. Praia do Forte

Glauco Umbelino from Moro em Belo Horizonte, Brasil , CC BY 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

27. Canoa Quebrada

Jorge Brazilian from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil , CC BY 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

28. Itaipu Dam

Angelo Leithold , CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

29. Caldas Novas

Eric Gandolph , CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

30. Maracanã Stadium

Brazilian Government , CC BY 3.0 BR , via Wikimedia Commons

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20 Best things to do in Brazil

What are the best things to do in brazil.

Welcome to Brazil! We come to discover this immense country (Fifth largest country in the world in surface area) for its beaches, for its warmth, for its music, for its inevitable carnival, for its tropical rainforests and the urban jungle of its cities… faces of Brazil that deserve a visit.

The extent of the country and the diversity of its climates allow you to visit it throughout the year provided you choose your region carefully. It is however the month of September which is globally the most favourable to the discovery of the country.

On this page, you will be able to discover in pictures the main experiences not to be missed in Brazil, its must-see tourist sites and the lesser known but worth a visit attractions (cities, national parks, beaches…).

A short description will give you the information you need to make the most of each experience.

Although it is impossible to see everything at once, this selection may be useful for you to plan a travel itinerary if you are going to visit Brazil for the first time by giving you a taste of the best things to do and places to visit.

The points are not in a precise order. Hoping that this selection is useful to you, do not hesitate to leave a comment if you think there are points to add.

Note: If you are planning a travel itinerary in Brazil, remember that the distances from one region to another are very long (long bus journeys to plan). Some national parks are also difficult to access, so it is up to you to choose what you want to see, depending on your budget and the time you spend there.

Here are 21 things to do and see during a trip to Brazil:

1. Rio de Janeiro

The arrival point in Brazil: do not miss a visit at the top of Corcovado to the statue of Christ to enjoy a superb 360° view, as well as at the top of the sugar loaf for another perspective of the city.

2. Iguazu Falls

Located on the border with Argentina and in two national parks belonging to each country, Iguazu Falls is a natural wonder. Allow at least two days to visit the sides of both countries.

3. The Pantanal

The largest marsh in the world, the Pantanal is a protected area that is home to a vast biodiversity: monkeys, anacondas, lizards and caimans live here as well as a large number of birds.

4. Lencois Maranhenses National Park

A unique place in the world located in the state of Maranhão, in northeast Brazil: white sand dunes punctuated at regular intervals by turquoise freshwater lakes.

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5. the aquario natural.

The most popular attraction in the Bonito region, the Aquario natural is located at the source of a clear water river where you can swim with a snorkel and mask among many fish, just like an aquarium in the middle of the forest. The ecological reserve is located 8 km from the city of Bonito. You can also visit caves, waterfalls and explore the forest via landscaped trails. For divers, don’t miss the Lagoa Misteriosa . The Aquário Encantado, in Nobres, is a similar place to the Aquario Natural but which is much less known.

6. Chapada Diamantina National Park

A gigantic national park accessible from the city of Lençóis where you can trek through a landscape of caves, canyons and low mountains. A great place for a amazing panorama is from Morro do Pai Inácio .

7. The city of Salvador

The capital of the State of Bahia is considered as the birthplace of Brazilian culture.

8. Chapada das Mesas National Park

A relatively new national park (since 2005) named after the table mountains it contains (‘ mesas’ ). There are amazing rock formations, canyons and many waterfalls. It’s accessible from the town of Carolina, via the city of Imperatriz.

9. The colonial city of Paraty

Parati / Paraty is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located three hours drive from Rio: it’s a former Portuguese colony by the sea in a superb setting. It’s one of the best preserved colonial cities in Brazil, and a good base for exploring the surrounding Costa Verde.

10. The Fernando de Noronha Archipelago

An archipelago of 21 islands and marine natural park with magnificent beaches on the northeast coast of Brazil, off Natal. The main island of the archipelago is Fernando de Noronha, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is famous for its scuba diving spots. Many dolphins can be seen there. The archipelago is located 345 km off the northeast coast of Brazil (one hour flight from Recife). The number of tourists who can access it at the same time is limited to protect the ecosystem.

11. Pedra Azul State Park

A little off the beaten track, Pedra Azul State Park is accessible all year round and deserves to be visited for its unspoilt natural beauty. The main attraction is the 1900-metre-high granite peak, which takes its name from the blue colour reflected at certain times of the day. A natural sculpture that looks like a lizard seems to scale it according to the angle from which it is observed. A guide is required to visit the park.

12. Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park

Located in the state of Goiás, Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park is accessible from the city of Alto Paraíso. Its rock formations are among the oldest on the planet. It’s part of UNESCO’s world heritage because it shelters the Cerrado, one of the oldest and most diverse ecosystems in the tropical world. The park is closed during the rainy season (December to February). There are many waterfalls and natural swimming pools.

13. The Parque Estadual do Jalapão

Jalapão is a state park in the northeast of the State of Tocantins, about 250 km from Palmas. It’s a very isolated, mysterious place with many possibilities for exploration between plateaus, rock formations, rivers and waterfalls.

14. The Carnival

In February every year, the most popular national holiday in Brazil is the largest tourist event in Rio de Janeiro (it’s celebrated in all the cities of the country) where it offers a particularly memorable and spectacular show with the parade of samba schools.

15. Explore the Amazon

From the city of Manaus , the gateway to the Amazon region, you can take several-day excursions in the forest or by boat on the Rio Amazonas (remember to get vaccinated against yellow fever and protect yourself from mosquitoes!). The further away from Manaus, the more likely you are to see rare animals.

16. Chapada dos Guimarães National Park

Located in the heart of Brazil, you can see archaeological sites with rock paintings and many dinosaur fossils. The best time to visit it is from May to July, when you can see many wildflowers.

17. The National Park of Caparão

Located on the border of the states of Minas Gerais and Espírito Santo. The Pico da Bandeira (2890 m), one of the highest mountains in Brazil, is located here. The best time to visit this place is between April and October.

18. The canyons of the Geral and Aparados da Serra national parks

Accessible 17 km from the city of Cambará do Sul (northeast of Rio Grande do Sul State), these are two contiguous national parks where you can see spectacular canyons, especially those of Fortalez and Itaimbezinho (the largest in Brazil). The best season to trek there is from May to August (avoid September – poor visibility due to fog).

19. The beaches

If you like beaches, Brazil offers some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Some names to remember: Jericoacoara , Porto de galinhas , Praia dos carneiros near Tamandaré, Lopes Mendes in Ilha Grande, Praia do Toque in Alagoas, Taipus de Fora Beach in Marau, Farol and Forno Beach in Arraial do Cabo (2 hours drive from Rio), Dolphins Bay in praia de pipa (to see dolphins) and finally Gales in Maragogi.

20. The Serra da Capivara National Park

A national park located in the south-east of Piauí State, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its many rock paintings and prehistoric sites.

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20 Must-Visit Attractions in Brazil

As the largest country in South America , Brazil is a vast playground for the intrepid traveller with everything from dense, exotic rainforest to bustling, dynamic cities, as well as sprawling national parks and glorious, jaw-dropping beaches. If you’re feeling spoilt for choice, here are the 20 attractions that are must-sees in Brazil.

Foz do iguaçu.

Foz do Iguaçu are one of the largest waterfalls in the world. This impressive natural phenomenon straddles the border of Brazil, Argentina, and Paraguay and is made up of hundreds of powerful cascades that tumble down into the fast-moving body of water below. A highlight is the Devil’s Throat, an 80-metre fall where visitors can look over the edge of a wooden platform that crosses the top.

Christ the Redeemer

One of Brazil’s most iconic monuments and Rio’s most visited attraction, Christ the Redeemer captures the imagination and hearts of hundreds of thousands of travellers each year. In addition to the symbolic importance in the Catholic community, the statue is also one of the New 7 Wonders of the World and provides spell-binding views over Rio de Janeiro.

Fernando de Noronha

Made up of a collection of 21 islands, Fernando de Noronha is a slice of paradise in Brazil. As a protected national marine park, the area is home to a diverse and rich ecosystem that includes dolphins, reef sharks, tropical fish, and rays. Famed for its undeveloped beaches and rugged, green coastline, it is a picturesque retreat and ideal for scuba diving and snorkeling.

Sugarloaf Mountain

One of Brazil’s most visited natural wonder is Sugarloaf Mountain in Rio de Janeiro, a rounded peak surrounded by the sea. Visitors take a cable car to the top to enjoy panoramic views over the city, the coastline and across the ocean – the most rewarding time to go is at sunset when the lights of the city twinkle below, while the sun casts shades of pink, orange, and red across the sky and sea.

Lençóis Maranhenses National Park

Located in the north of the country, Lençóis Maranhenses National Park is a striking desert landscape made up of sloping white sand dunes that stretch tall and wide, and dotted with rainwater lagoons that nestle between the valleys of the sand banks. The largest lagoons there are Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Bonita.

A huge wetland that swallows up the west of Brazil before sprawling into Bolivia and Paraguay, the Pantanal is a wildlife haven rich in a diverse ecosystem of rare and wonderful creatures. Nature lovers can spot hundreds of species of birds, in addition to large mammals such as jaguars and capybaras. Some of the most famous residents there are the thousands of caimans.

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Amazon rainforest

One of the most ecologically complex regions in the world, the Amazon rainforest is an extraordinary natural wonders. The dense forest provides fertile grounds for thousands of endemic species, while the Amazon river provides a home for incredible freshwater life, including the elusive pink river dolphins.

Chapada dos Veadeiros

Stretching across the central of Brazil is Chapada dos Veadeiros, an immense national park comprising deep canyons, hardy vegetation, and imposing quartz crystal formations. It is a fertile ground for several orchid species that grow wild throughout the park, and local residents include jaguars and armadillos.

Pelourinho, Salvador

Pelourinho is the historic city centre of Salvador in the state of Bahia. The vibrantly coloured buildings are a picturesque example of how the African, indigenous and European cultures, which were thrown together in Salvador, have converged throughout the centuries.

Located in the exotic northeast of Brazil, Fortaleza is a coastal city with strong winds that have attracted adrenaline-junkie kitesurfers for years. Watch the surfers race across the sea’s surface, their trajectory temporarily broken by impressive, daredevil leaps. The city is famed for its fresh, locally-sourced seafood with beachside restaurants in abundance serving Fortaleza’s delicious cuisine.

Jalapão State Park

Jalapão State Park is in the lesser-known state of Tocantins, yet the park has long been on the radar of curious travellers who love adventure. Known for its deep-orange dunes, raging rivers, and cascading waterfalls, it is a prime example of untouched wilderness that will keep any intrepid visitor satisfied.

Dunas de Genipabu

Just a short drive from Natal in the state of Rio Grande do Norte, the Genipabu dunes are an ever-changing collection of sand dunes that are shaped and reshaped by the daily winds that come off the coastline and whip over the sands. The region offers a host of adventurous activities such as buggy rides, camel treks and sledging down the sand dunes.

The charming colonial city of Olinda sits in the north of the country, in the state of Pernambuco. Located on a hilltop, it is a cultural wonderland of churches, museums, and buildings that have kept their colonial façade. The best time to go is during carnival when the city comes alive with vibrant, colourful street celebrations that reflect its strong African roots.

Porta de Galinhas

With its crystal clear waters and white, pristine beaches, Porta de Galinhas has deservedly earned the title as one of the most beautiful beaches in Brazil. When the tide comes in, the shoreline fills up with warm pools, locked between walls of coral and filled with a thriving ecosystem of marine life. It is possible to see marine turtles here, as well as seahorses for the observant snorkeller.

Mount Roraima

A rock formation that seems straight out of The Lost World, Mount Roraima is an imposing flat-top mountain that extends across the borders of Brazil, Venezuela, and the less-explored Guyana. To reach the top takes between seven and 10 days, but those that try will be treated to unforgettable views and waterfalls on the way.

Inhotim is located outside of Belo Horizonte in Minas Gerais, and has inspired art lovers across the world. The open-air art gallery is located on the grounds of a 5,000-acre botanical gardens and houses sculptures, art pavilions and interactive masterpieces from both Brazilian and international artists.

A region teeming with natural resources and wildlife, Bonita in the southwest of the country is recognised for its ecological importance and has become a well-protected haven. With freshwater pools and waterfalls alive with thriving shoals of tropical fish, it is a must-visit for any keen nature explorer. One of the highlights is Gruta do Lago Azul, an underground flooded cavity that stretched more than 200 feet deep and home to the fossiled remains of prehistoric animals, such as sabre-tooth tigers. The source of the mysterious, underground river that has yet to be discovered.

Chapada Diamantina

This large national park is teeming with an extraordinary range of biodiversity from rare orchids to large animals such as giant anteaters and armadillos. The large flat top rock formations with long, sloping plains beneath them create breathtaking views and scenery.

Cathedral de Brasilia

This cathedral with its circular-inspired ceiling is the masterpiece of Brazilian architect, Oscar Niemeyer. The all-around stained glass walls slant up to a single point in the ceiling and allow natural light to flood in, creating an airy atmosphere. The cathedral has a capacity of 4,000 people, watched over by angels that hang suspended from the ceiling.

Bento Goncalves

The landscape of Bento Goncalves comprises sloping hills, rows of grapevines and quaint rivers, ringing a persistent bell that sounds of the Italian countryside scenery. That’s unsurprising, given the area is largely influenced by Italian immigration in the 1800s. The area is replete with wine regions, locally-produced foods such as cheese and jams, and the streets are lined with charming boutique restaurants and places to eat.

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10 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Brasilia

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Dec 28, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Brasília, which succeeded Rio de Janeiro as Brazil's capital in 1960, was built in less than three years. Its location in the center of Brazil was chosen to help open up the western part of the country.

The extraordinarily ambitious plan, mainly the work of Lúcio Costa and Oscar Niemeyer, caused a sensation with its avant-garde architecture and its innovative city planning ideals. Because Brasília was planned and constructed as a whole piece, it doesn't have the mix of commercial, residential, and government functions that happens when a city grows over time; instead, these uses are strictly divided.

This makes it easy to find the architectural highlights — its prime tourist attractions — most of which are in one large area, but these are widely separated from the commercial and residential neighborhoods where you can join in local life.

The central area is in the form of a large cross with a curving north-south axis, Eixo Rodoviário, and a straight east-west axis, Eixo Monumental . Esplanada dos Ministérios is the central axis with the principal official buildings. Be prepared for plenty of walking, or join a tour to cover the distances between sights.

To find all the best things to do, use this handy list of the top tourist attractions in Brasilia.

See also: Where to Stay in Brasília

1. Praça dos Tràs Poderes

2. catedral metropolitana nossa senhora aparecida, 3. palácio dos arcos, 4. monumento jk: president kubitschek memorial, 5. lago do paranoá, ponte juscelino kubitschek and ponteo lago sud, 6. santuario dom bosco (sanctuary of dom bosco), 7. congresso nacional (national congress), 8. parque nacional de brasília, 9. monumental axis and torre de tv (television tower), 10. memorial dos povos indígenas (museum of indigenous people), where to stay in brasília for sightseeing, map of tourist attractions in brasilia.

Brasilia's governmental center combines some of its most striking landmark buildings and monuments into a stunning showcase of modern architecture.

As the name of the Praça dos Tràs Poderes (Square of the Three Powers) suggests, it is surrounded by buildings housing the executive, legislature, and judiciary: the Palácio do Planalto, the official residence of the President; the Supremo Tribunal Federal (Supreme Court); and the Congresso Nacional.

Also around the square are the Historical Museum of Brasília and the Panteão da Liberdade (Pantheon of Freedom), designed by Oscar Niemeyer to honor the rebels of the Inconfidància Mineira of 1789 and President Tancredo Neves, who died in 1985 soon after taking office.

On the south side is the Palácio dos Arcos . The Mastro da Bandeira is a 91-meter flagpole from which flies a 73-meter Brazilian flag.

The city's most famous landmark is the unique circular cathedral, designed by Niemeyer and completed in 1970. Its 16 curved concrete columns soar upward to create a crown that surrounds a glass roof. The natural lighting effect inside is spectacular.

When you enter the church, through a darkened tunnel, you will be surprised to discover that what you saw from the outside is only the building's roof; most of the cathedral is underground. The roof itself is composed of two layers, with plexiglass over the stained glass.

The four large statues outside the entrance represent the Four Evangelists; also outside is a 20-meter freestanding bell tower.

Address: Esplanada dos Ministérios, Brasilia, Planalto Central

The Palácio dos Arcos, also known as the Palácio Itamaraty , houses the Foreign Ministry and is one of Oscar Niemeyer's greatest achievements. A long line of symmetrical arches stands above a reflecting pool, the whole ensemble set in beautiful gardens designed by the noted Brazilian landscape architect Roberto Burle Marx.

The lavishly decorated interior surrounds a semi-roofed courtyard with a garden. The building is open to the public, and a highlight of the interior is the spiraling freestanding staircase, which seems to be suspended in air.

The dramatic monument on Praça do Cruzeiro is the memorial to President Juscelino Kubitschek, the larger-than-life president of Brazil who is considered the founder of Brasilia. The monument was designed by Oscar Niemeyer, and many consider it among his finest works.

Along with Kubitschek's tomb and a museum devoted to him, the monument contains interesting exhibits on the city he envisioned and saw through to reality, including early plans, construction photography, and other materials that illustrate Brasilia's history.

Around the monument are artworks by contemporary sculptors, which along with its historical interest, make it a popular attraction for tourists.

Address: Praça do Cruzeiro, Brasilia, Planalto Central

On the east side of the city, the Rio Paranoá has been dammed to form a large lake, the Lago do Paranoá. Along its shore are embassies and consulates, sports clubs, restaurants, the University, the Olympic Center, and the Palácio da Alvorada, official residence of the President of the Republic.

The Ponte Juscelino Kubitschek, better known as Ponte JK, is a concrete and steel bridge across the lake, supported by three crisscrossing arches that tower more than 60 meters above the water. Designed by architect Alexandre Chan and structural engineer Mário Vila Verde, the bridge has received several architectural awards since its completion in 2002. It is especially striking at night, when floodlights accent its soaring curves.

One of the most popular places to visit on weekends is the Pontao do Lago Sul , a promenade along the south side of the lake lined with restaurants and ice-cream stands.

The church of São João Bosco is dedicated to the 19th-century Italian priest canonized in 1934, whose vision of the foundation of a Utopian capital city in the New World near the 15th parallel is considered the inspiration for Brasilia.

This sanctuary was built right on the 15th parallel. Architect Vasconcelos Naves designed a square building of 40 tall pointed arches that frame tall windows of stained glass in multiple shades of blue, designed by Claudio Naves and made by Hubert van Doorne.

The windows make up most of the walls, and an enormous chandelier is made of more than 7,000 pieces of Murano glass. The large cedar Crucifix over the altar was carved by Gotfredo Tralli from a single tree.

Yet another landmark of modern architecture is the pair of buildings housing the Chamber of Deputies of Brazil (the lower house) and the Senate, along with their offices. For this, Oscar Niemeyer chose two sharply contrasting designs.

For the two houses, he created dish shapes that have been referred to as flying saucers, separating them by a pair of sharply linear rectangular towers. Around these photogenic buildings is a broad lawn with a reflecting pool, and inside are exhibits that include a Tunnel of Time.

You can tour the complex with an English-speaking guide.

Address: Via Eixo Monumental, Brasilia, Planalto Central

Brasília National Park covers 28,000 hectares in the northwest part of the city, protecting a number of different environments, including the low and crooked trees of the cerrado, the bush steppe of the Brazilian interior, expanses of scrub and grassland, swampy palm-scattered plains, and the imposing trees of the gallery forests found on riverbanks and lakeshores.

The streams in this area, dammed to form Lake Santa Maria, supply the whole of Brasília with drinking water, and among the park's greatest attractions are its mineral springs.

Along with its varied flora typical of the wild areas of midwestern Brazil, the park protects a rich and varied fauna, with innumerable species of birds, rheas, wild pigs, giant armadillos, capybaras, pampas deer, rare maned wolves, jaguars, caimans, anacondas, and other species of snakes.

You can follow either of two main walking trails through the lush forests: the short Capivara, about a 20-minute walk, or the hour-long Cristal trail. You can also join the locals soaking in one of the two mineral pools.

The 224-meter-tall Brasilia TV Tower is a good place to visit to get an overview of the city and a sense of its layout. It stands at one end of the Burle Marx Garden, and from this vantage point, you get a good view of the entire Monumental Axis (Eixo Monumental) and its landmarks, from the President Kubitschek Memorial to the towers of the governmental complex.

An observation deck at 74 meters is open to the public free every day, and on Sundays, a craft market takes place at its base. South of the Axis is the popular Sarah Kubitschek City Park , an expansive green space with ponds, theme rides, cafés, sports fields, concert space, and weekend flea markets

Address: Eixo Monumental, Brasilia, Planalto Central

This outstanding collection of native Brazilian art and artifacts not only records pre-colonial native culture but celebrates the living traditions of Brazil's indigenous peoples today. Historical and present-day implements - pottery, baskets, weapons, paddles, and feather headdresses - join art works created especially for the museum in a collection considered one of the best in South America.

In designing the unusual round building patterned after a traditional Yanomamö round house, Oscar Niemeyer consulted with Yanomamö shamans and elders for authenticity. The museum shop is an excellent place to find handmade native crafts.

Address: Esplanada dos Ministérios, Brasília, Planalto Central

We recommend these centrally located hotels in Brasília near the city's famous landmarks, monuments, and museums:

• Windsor Plaza Brasilia Hotel : This luxury high-rise hotel features an inviting pool and hot tub, free buffet breakfast, and a sauna and gym.
• Windsor Brasilia Hotel : For a mid-range option, this hotel is a great choice. It's located near a shopping mall and the property features modern decor, indoor pool, and spa with sauna.
• Grand Mercure Brasilia Eixo : This property is known affordable rates, proximity to shops, a restaurant, friendly staff, and contemporary style.
• Brasilia Apart Hotéis : For budget conscious travelers, this high-rise hotel offers good value with an outdoor pool, on-site restaurant, and free parking.

More on Brazil

Adventure Awaits: Tourist Spots for Thrill-Seeking Explorers

Last Updated on March 21, 2024

The World is a magnificent place filled with places for you to adorn and venture. There are as many adrenaline-pushing spots and places as there are exquisitely stunning places to look at. If you’re done visiting the beautiful places around this globe, you may want to consider something thrilling.

Well, the earth is brimming with diverse destinations, ranging from towering peaks to lush green mysterious jungles, for those daring souls who seek to push their limits and explore the unknown. So, here’s a list of tourist spots tailor-made for those who crave adventure and excitement.

Embracing the thrilling adventures in Alaska

It’s not just the Northern lights Alaska is known for; there are many other adventures and tourist destinations that you can find here.

Alaska is a pro when it comes to water sports. Glacier hiking, Ice Climbing, zip lining, and heli-skiing are the most popular water sports one can try in Alaska. Traversing through the Matanuska Glacier or the Exit Glacier, navigating the towering ice walls and crevasses.

You can also try Dog Sledding in the Last Frontier, Whitewater Rafting in the Nenana River, snowmobile tours, or Northern Lights Chasing.

Diving into the Abyss: Great Barrier Reef, Australia

For underwater enthusiasts, the Great Barrier Reef beckons with its vibrant marine life and mesmerizing coral gardens. Dive into the azure waters of the Coral Sea and explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to an abundance of marine species, including colorful coral, sharks, and turtles. Whether you are a seasoned diver or a beginner, the Great Barrier Reef offers an unforgettable adventure beneath the waves.

Trekking through the Jungle: Amazon Rainforest, Brazil

For those who yearn to explore untamed wilderness, the Amazon rainforest offers an unparalleled adventure.

Home to an astonishing array of flora and fauna, including Jaguars, Anacondas, and colorful birds, the Amazon beckons with its mysterious allure. Embark on a guided trek through the dense jungle, immersing yourself in the sights and sounds of this biodiverse ecosystem while creating unforgettable memories along the way.

Scaling New Heights: Himalayas, Nepal

For thrill-seekers with a fondness for mountaineering, there’s no greater challenge than conquering the peaks of the Himalayas. Nepal, home to eight of the World’s fourteen highest mountains, including the mighty Mount Everest, offers a playground to test their limits.

Whether trekking to Everest Base Camp or ascending to the summit itself, the Himalayas provide an unparalleled experience amidst breathtaking vistas and challenging terrain.

Trek through Patagonia

Patagonia has some of the most awe-inspiring and rugged landscapes on earth. Nestled at the southern tip of South America, this remote region spanning parts of Argentina and Chile captivates adventurers with its dramatic peaks, vast glaciers, and pristine wilderness.

It has tourist spots such as Torres del Paine National Park, Los Glaciers National Park, Tierra del Fuego National Park, The Carretera Austral, etc. A trek through is a journey of discovery, a chance to immerse yourself in the World’s greatest wilderness.

Whether you’re hiking amongst the towering peaks, camping beside the turquoise lake, or traversing remote landscapes, the allure of Patagonia’s rugged beauty will leave an indelible mark on your soul and inspire a lifelong love for adventure.

Soaring with the birds: Interlaken, Switzerland

For adventures with a taste of adrenaline, Interlaken serves as a playground in the sky. Nestled amidst the Swiss Alps, this picturesque town offers a myriad of activities guaranteed to get your heart racing. From paragliding high above the snow-capped peaks to bungee jumping off towering bridges. Interlaken provides the perfect backdrop for adrenaline-fueled adentures against a backdrop of stunning alpine scenery.

Exploring the enchanting charms of Cebu

Nestled in the heart of the Philippines, Cebu is a vibrant and diverse province that beckons travelers with its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and an array of exciting activities to suit every interest.

From pristine beaches and lush tropical landscapes to bustling cities and cultural landmarks, Cebu offers a plethora of experiences that promise to captivate and delight visitors and give them memories for a lifetime. 

Ranging from thriller water adventures to historical and cultural exploration to Island-Hopping adventures, you will have many Cebu tourist spot to enjoy and spend an unforgettable time in. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or cultural immersion, Cebu has a lot to offer its visitors.

For thrill-seeking explorers, the World is a vast playground filled with endless opportunities for adventure and excitement.

Whether you are scaling towering peaks, diving into the depths of the ocean, or trekking through untamed wilderness, there’s an adventure waiting to be had around the corner.

So, pack your bags, embrace the unknown, and embark on the journey of a lifetime – because adventure awaits.

Happy Traveling!

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The World’s 9 Most Dangerous Tourist Attractions

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• Not all tourist attractions are meant for the faint of heart. Some destinations carry serious risks that are not to be taken lightly.
• From the Grand Canyon to Snake Island, these places offer breathtaking views but also come with potentially deadly dangers.
• When seeking adventure, remember that the line between thrill-seeking and disaster is razor-thin. Safety should always be the top priority.

There’s a peculiar breed of human that isn't satisfied with the "mundane" pleasures of sun, sand, and souvenir shops. These adrenaline fans crave the extraordinary, the dangerous, and the downright insane. They’re the ones who swap beach towels for harnesses and cocktails for cliff-hanging adventures.

However, while the allure of pushing boundaries is tempting, there's a fine line between thrill-seeking and outright daring exploration! Some tourist attractions are less "bucket list" and more " body bag list ." So, buckle up because you’re about to journey to uncover the world's most dangerous tourist attractions.

Remember, just because something is popular doesn't mean it's always safe. While it’s great to have a sense of adventure, a healthy dose of common sense and caution is highly recommended.

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9 Grand Canyon National Park, USA

Nature’s very own rollercoaster ride without belts.

The Grand Canyon, one of America’s deadliest national parks , is one of those places that leaves you simultaneously awestruck and terrified. It's a colossal, gaping hole in the Earth's crust, a geological marvel that's as beautiful as it is dangerous.

Its sheer cliffs and unpredictable weather conditions make it a place where respect for nature is paramount. One wrong step, a sudden storm, or a moment of carelessness can turn a breathtaking adventure into a terrifying ordeal. Despite its beauty, the Grand Canyon claims an average of 12 lives per year , a stark reminder of its potential dangers.

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8 Precipice Trail, USA

A walk on the wild side with a healthy dose of omg.

The Precipice Trail in Acadia National Park, Maine, is not for the faint of heart. It’s one of the hardest hikes in Acadia National Park that promises breathtaking views but comes with a side order of sheer terror. Imagine a narrow, rocky path clinging to the side of a mountain, with nothing but air between you and a thousand-foot drop.

It’s like a real-life game of Frogger but with much higher stakes. But it's important to remember that while the views are spectacular, the risks are equally so. Still, for those who make it to the top, the reward is a panoramic view that's almost worth the cardiac arrest.

7 Snake Island, Brazil

A reptile-filled nightmare on a small piece of land.

Snake Island, or Ilha da Queimada Grande, is not your average tropical paradise. It’s one of the world’s scariest islands you should never visit and one of the most dangerous places on Earth ! This isolated Brazilian island is more like a reptilian hellhole with between 2,000 and 4,000 danger noodles !

Imagine stepping onto an island where every square meter is a potential snake pit filled with one to five golden lanceheads, one of the world's deadliest snakes. With a snake-to-human ratio that’s probably something out of a nightmare, Snake Island is definitely not for the faint of heart.

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6 The Cave Of Swallows, Mexico

Nature’s very own drop zone.

Sótano de las Golondrinas, also known as the Cave of Swallows in Mexico, is not your average tourist spot. This colossal, gaping hole in the ground is a playground for adrenaline fanatics and a nightmare for those with a fear of heights. This colossal pit, with depths reaching over 1,200 feet, is a magnet for base jumpers, wingsuit flyers, and spelunkers who crave a serious dose of vertigo.

That said, a written permit from the Mayor of Aquismón is required to access the Cave of Swallows. The permit office is located on the north side of the town square. While the Cave of Swallows is undeniably impressive, it's also incredibly dangerous. It's a place where the line between exhilaration and disaster is razor-thin.

5 The Danakil Depression, Ethiopia

A place on earth that looks nothing like a place on earth....

The Danakil Depression in Ethiopia is not your average vacation spot. This otherworldly landscape, with its salt flats, active volcanoes, and bubbling mud pools, is a place where Earth seems to have taken a wrong turn. It’s like stepping onto another planet, without the benefit of a spaceship.

Imagine a world of scorching heat, toxic fumes, and the constant threat of volcanic eruptions. That's the Danakil Depression. It's a place where temperatures soar, and the air is often thick with the acrid scent of sulfur. The average temperature here is 95 degrees Fahrenheit, and on days when the sun's heat doesn't cool down, it can exceed 118.4 degrees Fahrenheit.

7 Countries Americans Can't Travel To

Americans can travel to many exotic places around the globe. Some countries, however, are off-limits.

4 Mont Blanc, France/Italy

A mountainous misadventure with challenging terrain.

Mont Blanc, the towering giant of the Alps , is a magnet for adrenaline seekers and outdoor enthusiasts. Its snow-capped peak and challenging terrain have lured climbers and skiers for centuries. It's like Everest but with a French accent. However, this majestic mountain is not without its dangers.

Its icy slopes and treacherous cliffs have claimed countless lives, earning it a reputation as one of Europe's most formidable peaks. The thin air, combined with the sheer drop, makes it a test of both physical and mental endurance. It's a place where respect for the mountain is paramount, or you might find yourself paying a hefty price.

3 Yosemite National Park, USA

Nature's playground or perilous pursuit.

Yosemite National Park is a crown jewel of the American wilderness, boasting towering granite cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and ancient sequoia trees. It's a place where dreams of adventure come alive. However, beneath its stunning facade lurks a wilder side.

Besides being one of the many national parks famous for legends and curses (as well as lodges with paranormal activity, such as the haunted Ahwahnee Hotel ), Yosemite is one of the national parks with the highest number of missing people . It is estimated that over 30 people have gone missing in Yosemite .

With its dramatic landscapes and rugged terrain, Yosemite offers a thrilling experience. Still, it's important to remember that nature can be as unforgiving as it is beautiful.

8 Unbelievable Natural Phenomena In Yosemite That Seem Otherworldly

Yosemite has several natural phenomena that seem otherworldly, and here we take a look at some of the stranger ones.

2 Trift Bridge, Switzerland

A walk in the clouds (or so it seems).

The Trift Bridge in Switzerland is not for the faint of heart. It's a swaying, metal walkway suspended 328 feet above and stretching approximately 560 feet across a dramatic gorge in the Swiss Alps. It's like walking on a tightrope, but with a much bigger drop.

This engineering marvel offers breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps, but it also comes with a healthy side order of vertigo . Reaching the bridge involves a scenic cable car ride followed by a moderate hike. Sure, it’s like walking on a noodle for people who fear heights, but for those who dare to cross, the reward is a truly unforgettable experience!

1 The North Yungas Road, Bolivia

Bolivia's death-defying drive of doom.

The North Yungas Road, more infamously known as the "Death Road," is a winding ribbon of asphalt that clings precariously to the side of a mountain. It's a road that’s earned its reputation as one of the most dangerous in the world. That said, this winding, treacherous stretch, with an 11,500-foot descent, is a rite of passage for adrenaline enthusiasts and mountain bikers worldwide.

Imagine driving or biking along a narrow, cliff-hanging road, with sheer drops on one side and oncoming traffic on the other. That's North Yungas Road. It's a place where the phrase "white-knuckle ride" takes on a whole new meaning.

Dangerous Destinations: 9 Beautiful Beaches With A Dark Side

Tourists rarely stop to consider the tragedies that may have occurred on the beaches they sunbathe on, but these sands have some dark stories to tell.

These are just a few of the most dangerous tourist attractions in the world. While the allure of pushing boundaries is undeniable, adventure doesn't always equal safety. These destinations are not for the faint of heart, and they certainly aren't for everyone.

The next time you're scrolling through your social media feed and see someone dangling off a cliff or driving on thin roads clinging to the sides of mountains, remember: it might look cool, but it's probably not a good idea.

So, when planning your next vacation, consider whether you're seeking a relaxing getaway or a heart-stopping adventure . And remember, sometimes the best view is the one from your living room couch.

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Beaches and areas in Tuapse - overview and where to stay

This article has been translated from Russian language using an artificial intelligence-based translation algorithm. We apologize for any inconvenience caused by the quality of the translation. You can read the original of this article in Russian here , and ask questions on the topic of our travel forum in English here .

Beach overview, prices and services

In our opinion, Tuapse is one of the most unsuccessful beach resorts in the Tuapse region. The fact is that the places here are not very environmentally friendly because of the industries and enterprises engaged in servicing the port. The cargo port itself, which occupies the entire coastline within the city center, does not add comfort, and constantly plying multi-ton vessels leave traces of fuel on the water.

All beaches of Tuapse are free, access to them is not limited. But their location makes them not very easily accessible, since they are on the outskirts, where you have to get from the center on foot or by Transport.

Tides in Tuapse are almost imperceptible, the difference is a few centimeters. If you are interested, you can see the graph of tides and their forecast:

And now a more detailed description of each of the beaches of the resort:

You can download ⤓ points of interest, important transport points (bus stations, airports, etc.), districts and beaches from our map in KMZ/KML format. These files can be downloaded to the navigator or smartphone for use with offline or online Google Maps applications, Organic Maps and others that support this format, and use them to navigate and explore resorts.

Tuapse City Beach

The main beach of the resort, begins in the south (left) behind the port and the Tuapse River, and stretches continuously for many kilometers ( City on the map ). Theoretically, on foot along the coast and railway tracks from here you can even walk to the beginning of Greater Sochi, but this, of course, is too far.

The entrance to it is from Gagarin Street, and it is free, but for entry by car you will have to pay 100 rubles for parking. If you wish, you can leave the car on the side of the road further from the entrance, and walk about 500 meters.

The City Beach is different in different areas: immediately at the entrance it is Pebbles, if you go further than 300 meters, there are areas with sand separated by breakwaters. In general, the entire coast here is broken by breakwaters and reinforced with concrete, and the railway passes from above. The depth is almost everywhere large, 5 meters from the shore is already on the shoulders of adults. The water is muddy, but as you move away from the center it becomes clearer.

Near the main entrance there are sun beds and umbrellas for rent, rental of SUP-surfboards, sometimes they offer to ride jet skis, but there is no more entertainment. By the way, renting sun loungers and umbrellas here is one of the most expensive on the whole coast – they ask 500 rubles per day and 400 for half a day. At the entrance on Gagarin Street there are stalls selling goods for recreation and souvenirs, cafes and fast food, selling excursions. Prices by the standards of other beaches and resorts of the coast are noticeably high.

Vesna, Gizel-Dere and Yuzhny beaches

If you continue walking along the coast from the city, you can get to the distant beaches of Vesna (1.75 km., Spring on the map ), Gizel-Dere (3 km., Gizel-Dere on the map ) and Yuzhny (4 km., ( on the map ) by the names of districts and train stops. In fact, they are no different from everything else-for the better, but rather for the worse. There is no entertainment and infrastructure on them.

Seaside beach or Pier 167

Primorskiy is located on the northwestern (right) outskirts of the city across the Pauk River ( Primorsky on the map ). You can only get there on foot along the narrow Primorskaya Street along the river.

A completely pebbly beach, the pebbles are mostly large but flat. On the shore comes across natural and vacationing garbage, rarely cleaned. There are no amenities, entertainment and infrastructure, only at the entrance along the seaside street there are tents selling goods for tourists, selling excursions and a couple of cafes and fast food, and sun beds and umbrellas for rent at the very beginning of the beach. Therefore, going here on vacation, it is better to take your litter and a beach umbrella, you need "aquashuzes" to enter the water. Plus Primorsky-few people compared to the city. Along the coast you can go far along Cape Kadosh to completely wild places suitable for solitude.

Other beaches of Tuapse

In addition to the beaches mentioned above, Tuapse also includes other resorts in the Tuapse region, which can be considered as remote beaches. They will have to be reached by transport, but it is quite possible to go and relax on them during the day. For more information about each of the individual resorts of the Tuapse district and how to get to them, see our travel guides:

• Dzhubga Travel Guide (55 kilometers away)
• Guide to Lermontovo (50 kilometers away)
• Novomikhailovsky Travel Guide (40 kilometers away)
• Guide to Olginka (28 kilometers away)
• Guide to the sky (16 kilometers away)
• Agoy guide (12 kilometers away)
• Dedercoy guide (13 kilometers away)
• Shepsey guide (18 kilometers away)