26 Things to Do in Brazil – A Guide to Thrills and Excitement

Are you ready to be amazed? Hop on the next plane and head to this magical destination: there are loads of wonderful things to do in Brazil.

The largest country in South America, Brazil is home to a vibrant culture, world-class beaches, memorable landscapes, diverse flora and fauna, and an endless list of activities and experiences for every type of traveler.

Brazil is a dynamic and varied place. It has more than 214 million people living in its 3.3 million square miles (8.5 million square kilometers) of land and is the fifth largest country in the world. 

The country is a fantastic vacation spot because of its many one-of-a-kind attractions. Almost 60% of Brazil is covered by the Amazon Rainforest—the largest rainforest in the world and one of the country’s most well-known and breathtaking attractions.

This article curates and shares Brazil’s best bucket list-worthy places, experiences, and tastes. 

Things To Do in Brazil – Sights

1. Participate in Rio de Janeiro’s Carnival

Thousands of people travel to Rio de Janeiro yearly to experience the world-famous Carnival. The Carnival is a six-day event with a procession of samba schools, street parties, and lots of singing and dancing. 

Visitors can join the festivities by donning colorful costumes, dancing to samba rhythms, and immersing themselves in the energetic street parades known as “blocos.” 

2. Visit Mariana

The colonial town of Mariana can be found in the Brazilian state of Minas Gerais. The ‘Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption’ is one of Brazil’s oldest churches and a prime example of the city’s well-preserved Baroque architecture. 

Highlights include touring the impressive Mina da Passagem gold mine, marveling at the intricate Chapel of Our Lady of Carmo, and experiencing the nostalgia of the Mariana Railroad.

3. Spend a Day at Ilha Grande

Ilha Grande, a captivating island near Rio de Janeiro, draws locals and travelers for a day of exploration. Activities on this beautiful island range from snorkeling and diving in its clear waters to hiking its numerous scenic trails, including the famed Abraao to Lopes Mendes beach route.

4. Visit Ouro Preto

Another colonial town in Minas Gerais is Ouro Preto. The Inconfidência Museum and Saint Francis of Assisi Cathedral are just two examples of the well-preserved Baroque architecture that makes this region a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

5. Travel to Salvador

Salvador, the state capital of Bahia, was founded in the Bronze Age and is one of Brazil’s first urban centers. This city is famous for its vibrant music scene, Afro-Brazilian heritage, and brightly colored buildings. 

The historical district of Pelourinho in Salvador has been designated as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and is well worth a visit. 

6. Explore the Town of Olinda

Olinda, in the Brazilian state of Pernambuco, is a town rich in history. Its colonial buildings, brightly painted homes, and lively Carnival celebrations contribute to the city’s well-deserved reputation as a tourist hotspot. 

Visitors can climb to the summit of Alto da Sé hill, which has amazing views of the bay and surrounding area.

7. Visit São Luís

The city of São Luís in the Brazilian state of Maranhao has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Historic Center of São Luís is just one of many examples of colonial architecture. There are also boat cruises to the neighboring Lencóis Maranhenses National Park. 

8. Belém

Belém, the capital of the Brazilian state of Pará, is a major entry point to the Amazon Basin. Ver-o-Peso market and Forte do Castelo are just two of the city’s famous old structures. Tours of adjacent Marajó Island can be taken from the mainland as well.

9. Diamantina

Diamantina is a colonial town in the Brazilian state of Minas Gerais. The historic center of Diamantina is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to many well-preserved colonial buildings, churches, and monuments. The Casa de Chica da Silva, the home of the famous Afro-Brazilian socialite, is another popular attraction in Diamantina. 

Today, Diamantina is a charming town that attracts visitors with its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture. 

Things To Do in Brazil – Activities

10. See the Local Fauna

Brazil is teeming with exotic species like jaguars, monkeys, and brightly plumed birds. Safaris in the Pantanal wetlands, birdwatching in the Amazon jungle, and whale watching on the southern shore are all available to tourists. 

11. Visit the Iguazu Falls

The Iguazu Falls, located on the border between Brazil and Argentina, is one of the world’s most spectacular waterfall systems. You could take a boat ride to get up close and personal with the falls or stroll along the catwalks for sweeping vistas. 

If you’re into waterfalls, the Caracol Falls and the Sao Francisco Falls are other well-known waterfalls in Brazil. 

12. Go Hang Gliding

Try your hand at hang gliding; this sport is at its peak in Rio de Janeiro, which has some of the world’s most magnificent scenery and optimum weather conditions. Going up in the air with a qualified pilot is a unique way for tourists to obtain a bird’s eye view of the city.

13. Swim and Bathe In Copacabana Beach

Copacabana Beach, in Rio de Janeiro, is one of the most well-known beaches in the world. There is a large expanse of clean water and several facilities, including pubs and restaurants, waiting to be visited. Chairs and umbrellas are available for rent, and the water is always inviting. 

There are several other beautiful beaches in Brazil, such as Praia do Forte in Bahia and Jericoacoara in Ceará. 

14. Do the Samba

Experience the music and culture of Brazil by taking a samba class or watching a samba performance. This iconic dance, deeply rooted in the country’s heritage, is a rhythmic and energetic expression of joy. Forró, Axé, and Capoeira are other well-liked dance forms you can enjoy and practice. 

15. Snorkel In Bonito and Other Underwater Spots

Explore incredible snorkeling spots, including Bonito, Fernando de Noronha, and Maracajaú. The waters off the coast of Brazil are teeming with marine life, shipwrecks, and coral reefs. 

Bonito in Mato Grosso do Sul, Fernando de Noronha in Pernambuco, and Maracajau are examples of tourist destinations known for their snorkeling and scuba diving options.

16. Watch a Soccer Match

Experience the excitement of a live football match while in Brazil. Football plays a significant role in Brazilian culture. Teams like Flamengo, Corinthians, and Palmeiras consistently rank among Brazil’s most popular sports franchises. 

17. Visit the Amazon Rainforest

Go to the Amazon Rainforest, the world’s largest tropical rainforest, which takes almost 60% of Brazil. Immerse yourself in the lush greenery, vibrant wildlife, and rich indigenous cultures that make this region unique. Discover diverse ecosystems through guided hikes, boat excursions along the winding rivers, and canopy walks that offer a bird’s-eye view of this enchanting landscape.

Visiting the Amazon Rainforest is an opportunity to witness the planet’s natural beauty and appreciate the importance of conservation efforts in preserving this vital ecosystem for future generations.

18. Take a Safari Tour of the Pantanal

Explore the huge wetland region of western Brazil, the Pantanal, on a safari. The Pantanal is home to a wide variety of plant and animal life. Safari tours allow guests to observe wild animals like jaguars and capybaras in their native environments. 

19. Take a Wine Tour In Sao Roque

Take a wine tour in Sao Roque, a town in the Brazilian state of Sao Paulo. 

The Vinicola Goes, and the Estilla Destilaria e Cervejaria are just two local wineries that welcome visitors for tours and tastings of the excellent wines produced there. 

20. Take a Boat Ride to the Anavilhanas Archipelago

The Anavilhanas Archipelago is a collection of islands in the Amazon River, and you may visit them by taking a boat tour. Tourists can enjoy a boat ride through the rivers and lakes to experience the beautiful landscape. 

21. See Christ the Redeemer Statue

One of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Statue of Christ the Redeemer, is a defining emblem of Rio de Janeiro. The statue can be seen up close by taking a train or van to the peak of Corcovado Mountain.

22. Spend a Day at Sao Paulo

Explore the vibrant city of Sao Paulo, noted for its street art movement, and enjoy a tour of some of the city’s best art. On a guided tour, visitors can view murals and graffiti by local painters like Eduardo Kobra and Os Gemeos.

Things To Do in Brazil – Food

23. Caipirinha

Enjoy Caipirinha, a popular Brazilian cocktail created with cachaça (a distilled alcohol made from sugarcane), lime, sugar, and ice. This zesty and refreshing concoction captures the spirit of the country’s lively culture and laid-back vibe. 

It’s more than just a drink – it’s a sip of Brazil’s zest for life.

24. Coxinha

Coxinha is a common snack that consists of shredded chicken and cream cheese wrapped in fried dough shaped like a drumstick. This savory delight is then deep-fried to perfection, creating a delectable contrast of textures and flavors. 

Whether enjoyed as a quick street food fix or as a part of a leisurely meal, Coxinha is a must-try that embodies the country’s rich gastronomic culture.

25. Brigadeiro

One of the most well-known Brazilian desserts is brigadeiro, a sweet and chocolatey truffle crafted with condensed milk, cocoa powder, and butter. Cooked to perfection and rolled into bite-sized balls, Brigadeiros are coated in tempting toppings, such as chocolate sprinkles, shredded coconut, or nuts. Brigadeiros offers a harmonious blend of rich chocolate flavor and a luscious, fudgy texture, perfect for celebrations or as an everyday delight.

26. Grilled Meat

Brazilians are known worldwide for their love of grilled meat, and churrasco is the barbecue that epitomizes the country’s style. Meats such as beef, hog, and chicken are skewered and grilled before being served with rice, beans, and salad. 

What Should Travelers to Brazil Keep in Mind?

Practical Travel Tips

• Acquiring a working knowledge of Portuguese is an excellent practical travel tip. Because English is not widely spoken in Brazil, learning a few keywords in the local language, Portuguese will help you get around more easily.
• Money is still king in the smaller towns and street markets, so be sure to have some along. Having some Brazilian reals on hand is a must.
• Keep an eye on your belongings. Petty theft is a problem in Brazil, especially in larger cities like Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo. Keep a watch on your possessions, and don’t advertise large sums of money or jewelry.

Cultural Considerations

• Dress respectfully. Despite Brazil’s reputation as a beach destination, dressing carelessly or revealingly too much can be considered insensitive. Churches, museums, and other places of cultural significance require visitors to dress modestly.
• Although Brazilians are known for being kind and caring, they also appreciate their space. 
• Accept and celebrate the many cultural traditions that make Brazil what it is today. Recognize and appreciate the wide range of people who make up this country.

Health And Safety

• Be aware of the Zika virus. This mosquito-borne illness has recently spread throughout Brazil. Take or buy mosquito repellent and dress in full clothing at night.
• Drinking water straight from the tap is not normally safe in Brazil. You should only drink bottled water and avoid using ice.
• Although public transit is generally safe, avoiding it at night is better, especially in high-crime areas.
• Use ATMs only in secure areas. Avoid using ATMs in the middle of the night or remote areas; instead, use ones inside banks or shopping centers.
• Notify your bank before traveling to Brazil so that your bank card is not restricted for suspicious behavior.
• Always carry a backup credit or debit card in case your primary card is lost or stolen.
• Consider protecting yourself with travel insurance such as SafetyWing, which can cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen incidents during your stay in Phnom Penh. Use the widget below to snag the perfect policy for your needs and travel with peace of mind knowing you’ve got your back covered, no matter what adventures come your way!

Travel Tips For Women/Solo Travelers

• Pre-trip research can help you choose safe places to stay. Keep away from unsafe or desolate areas.
• Dress conservatively. Unfortunately, it’s still needed in Brazil to try and avoid unwanted attention.
• Keep to well-lit areas and never go alone at night, especially in an unfamiliar place. You might take a taxi or use a ridesharing service instead of walking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Things To Do in Brazil

What Is Brazil’s Most Popular For?

Many factors have made Brazil famous around the world. They include its long and illustrious history, cultural richness, stunning beaches, and the Amazon Rainforest. On top of being the world’s leading coffee exporter, Brazil is also home to other world-famous attractions, like Rio de Janeiro’s Christ the Redeemer statue. 

Is Brazil Good for Tourists?

Yes, Brazil is a great tourist destination. It is home to many tourist destinations, from the pulsating metropolises of Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo to the breathtaking natural wonders of the Amazon jungle and the beaches of the northeastern coast.

Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio de Janeiro, the Iguazu Falls on the border with Argentina, and the Amazon jungle are just a few of Brazil’s most popular tourist destinations. Its people are noted for their friendliness and hospitality, and its culture is thriving.

Is Brazil Cheap For a Vacation?

Vacation expenses in Brazil range widely according to individual preferences and activities. Brazil is not a cheap travel destination, but it is also not incredibly costly. Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo are famous tourist destinations, but the cost of lodging, meals, and activities may be significantly greater there than in other parts of Brazil. 

Fluctuations in the exchange rate between the Brazilian real and other currencies may also impact a trip’s budget. It’s always good to do some pricing comparisons and budget planning before a trip before visiting.

What Do I Need To Know Before Going to Brazil?

It would help to remember a few things before heading to Brazil. A person’s priority should be their safety, especially in more populated areas where the crime rate is likely higher. Avoid drawing attention to yourself or your belongings by stowing them away and always keeping an eye on your surroundings. 

While traveling to areas like the Amazon Rainforest, where mosquitoes can carry diseases like malaria and yellow fever, it’s crucial to consider health. If you have any questions about immunizations or other preventive measures, it’s best to ask your doctor. 

From a practical standpoint, it’s important to remember that Portuguese is Brazil’s de facto national language and that English proficiency may be low in certain locations. Before you go there, learning some basic Portuguese may be a good idea. 

For women and those traveling alone, it is especially important to respect local customs by wearing clothes modestly, staying in well-lit areas at night, and employing other safety measures like hiring a reliable transportation service. 

Conclusion – Things To Do in Brazil

There you go! The ultimate list of the top exciting and fun things to do in Brazil to guide your visit to this marvelous landscape. With Brazil’s vibrant culture, you won’t run out of activities to maximize your trip. 

While this may make deciding your itinerary more difficult, enjoy the challenge and savor the experience. Safe travels, and have fun! 

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