Not only is Brazil the largest country in South America, but it is also one of the most diverse cultures in the world. Planning the best Brazil itinerary should include experiences that showcase the rich history, vibrant culture, and magnificent natural wonders. In this guide, we will answer frequently asked questions like how to get to Iguaza Falls, where to explore in Rio de Janeiro, and why Brazil in November is a great time to visit!
Here is What to Include on your Brazil Itinerary:
River to Iguazu Falls
Iguazu Falls
Brazil is home to some of the most remarkable and visited landmarks in the world. The Iguazu Falls, located in the Iguazu National Park, are one of the 7 natural wonders of the world and are recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Here you will find 300 individual cascades that form the majestic Foz do Iguacu, which can be viewed from Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay.
To fully experience this attraction, you should dedicate at least two days here on your Brazil itinerary. Doing so will give you time to fully soak in the Devil’s Throat Canyon on the Brazilian side. Then you can head to the Argentinian region to enjoy the rest of the waterfalls.
If you are wondering how to get to Iguazu Falls, you should know that the falls are over 930 miles from Rio de Janeiro. Therefore, the most efficient way to get there is by plane. There are two domestic flight options if you plan to visit. If you are interested in visiting the Brazilian and Argentinian regions of these waterfalls, Foz do Iguaçu International Airport (IGU) is the best option. Cataratas International Airport (IGR) is another option too, but closer to Argentina.
Sugarloaf Mountain
Rio de Janeiro
Also known as the “Miraculous City”, Rio de Janeiro is one of the most vibrant cities in Brazil. People from all over the world visit the city to see its gorgeous beaches, elite gastronomy, heart-warming people, and electric atmosphere.
One of the first landmarks you will notice across Rio de Janeiro’s skyline is “Christ the Redeemer '', a 98-foot tall statue of Jesus. This iconic masterpiece, sculpted by Paul Landowski and Brazilian engineer Heitor da Silva Costa, provides some of the best panoramic views of the city and surrounding environment.
Another hotspot for panoramic views is Sugarloaf Mountain. The view from nearly 1,300 ft has incredible vistas of the beaches, skyscrapers, and sunsets. It is a must to add to your Brazil itinerary!
You can learn a lot about Brazil through the cuisine, especially through the outdoors markets and street food vendors. On Sundays you have the chance to visit “Gloria’s Feira Livre”, a morning market where you will find some of Brazil’s unique produce like acaí, guava, Jabuticaba, Cupuaçu, Caju, and Carambola. Aside from food, you can experience the city by wandering through neighborhoods like Copacabana, Ipanema, Botafogo and Flamengo during the day.
If you are interested in learning about Brazil’s African heritage, head towards Pedra do Sal, also known as “Little Africa”. Known as the birthplace of samba, this community is the perfect place for any music lover. In every corner you will be able to find live music and vibrant street art, just like a carnival.
Paraty’s Historical City Center
Paraty
Located between Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo, Paratay is a small coastal town known for its preserved colonial architecture, colorful houses, and cobbled streets. It is recognized as a National Historic Site, because it was the setting of the Brazilian Gold Rush in the 1700’s. This is when some of the largest gold mines in South America were found.
Wandering around this town’s colorful streets on a guided tour is a great way to experience its rich history from both Portuguese and African influences. Some of these influences can be seen in their local specialties, such as Pao de Querijo (cheese bread), Acaraje (fried shrimp pie), and Virada Paulista (rice, beans, banana, and meat).
As a coastal town, some of the “must-do” activities will involve water, like hopping around the nearby tropical islands, visiting deserted sandy beaches and perhaps a cachaça distillery in the bay, or even exploring national parks with plenty of waterfalls.
Unique Experiences For Your Brazil Itinerary:
From vast, sandy beaches, to waterfalls and the lush Amazon, Brazil is quite an ecologically diverse country. This is one of the reasons why sustainable tourism is so important in Brazil. Not only is it crucial to protect the natural environment, but sustainable tourism also supports the local culture, people, and indigenous communities.
When planning your Brazil itinerary, consider taking some time to support indigenous communities. During our Brazil trip, we’ll visit the Quilombola Campinho da Independência, a community dating back to the 19th century. Three Afro-Brazilian women, whose ancestors were enslaved, received the land from their former lord when slavery was abolished. Today, all residents of this community are descendants of these women.
Joatinga Cove
Other smaller communities to support include the Ponta Negra Fishing Village in the Joatinga peninsula. Though you can only get here by boat or trail, this area offers the opportunity to engage with a traditional fishing community that live in harmony with nature. There are also various water activities to take advantage of in the Ponta Negra beach area. Our 8-day Brazil tour includes a stop to the Ponta Negra Fishing Village and a hike overlooking the beautiful beach!
Hiking lovers and nature enthusiasts are in for a treat when in Brazil. Not only will you be mesmerized by the tropical rainforest and all its natural wonders, but you will probably find some exotic wild animals along the way. The good thing is that it all can be done in a sustainable and responsible way in the Cairuçu Environmental Protection Area, located near Paraty in the state of Rio de Janeiro. There you will find the 24,600 acre Juatinga Ecological Reserve, an ecotourism destination known to be one of the best in Brazil.
Food to try in Brazil:
Brazil’s most iconic and emblematic dishes are a mix of almost every corner of the world. Portugal had the strongest influence in shaping the culture and cuisine. However, Brazilian food also combines influences from African, Native, and even Asian cultures.
Here are some of a few must-try foods:
Moqueca de Camarão by Mauro Segura
Moqueca de Camarão
Moqueca is a slow-cooked creamy stew typically made from fish or prawns and served in a clay pot. There are variations in different regions, but it is usually cooked with tomatoes, onions, and cilantro.
Acarajé
This is one of the most popular dishes in Brazil, which is crispy black-eyed peas and onion cake. It is then deep-fried until they become these crispy and delicious fritters.
Brazilian Steakhouse
Sanduíche de Mortadela
This massive sandwich originated in São Paulo and consists of a simple bread roll filled with generous amounts of freshly sliced and stacked mortadella, topped with cheese that melts instantly with the hot meats. You can find this staple in most markets, but the best one is found in São Paulo's Mercado Municipal.
Picanha
Something you must know about Brazilians is their love for barbecue and churrascarias, which are Brazilian steakhouses. Although they sell all types of meats and cuts grilled to perfection in pierced long skewers, their most famous one is a triangular cut of beef called picanha, which is tender and juicy, and once cooked the flavor is one of a kind.
Beiju de Tapioca
This versatile snack, similar to a crepe or a tortilla but made from tapioca, can be enjoyed sweet or savory at any moment of the day. Some of the most popular fillings include grated coconut with condensed milk and butter, cheese with any protein. Mostly found in Northern Brazil and throughout Rio de Janeiro’s beaches.
Although embarking on a street food adventure is a great way to learn about the culture and culinary traditions, there are also even more interactive activities that also support locals. Local chefs and cooks offer cooking experiences for small groups of people, where they show the process and teach participants about various cooking techniques from different regions. This is an experience that we include while we have a gourmet dinner demonstration in Paraty on our Brazil tour.
Aerial View of Iguazu Falls
Lastly, but perhaps the most important tip, is to enter your adventure in Brazil with an open mindset. Give a chance to things you may have been too scared to sample. Just say yes to unique specialties and experiences from the different regions, they just might offer you some of the most amazing stories you can ever imagine!
Join us on a trip to Brazil in November
If you’re ready to experience all of the above and more that Brazil has to offer, consider joining us on our 8-day tour of Brazil. Brazil in November is a perfect time of year to experience the best that the country has to offer. However, we can also create private tour options in Brazil year-round, and there’s plenty to enjoy in other shoulder season months such as March. Check out our itinerary that includes Rio de Janeiro, Paraty, Ponta Negra, and Iguaza falls, with plenty of immersive cultural and outdoor experiences here.
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Experiencing the exotic otherworldly landscapes of Brazil in itself is worth the trip, but in one week this itinerary will give you the full breadth of what this magnificent country has to offer.