Famous for its dancing, festivals, football, and the iconic Rio Carnival, Brazil is a bucket list destination for many! From living in Rio de Janeiro for two years, here are the destinations that stole my heart…
1. Rio de Janeiro
I just loved calling this fun, dynamic city my home for two years! I thought it was jaw-droppingly beautiful, with its heart-stirring views from Corcovado Mountain, the imposing Christ the Redeemer statue, golden beaches such as glamorous Copacabana and trendy Ipanema, and a skyline framed by tree-covered peaks.
I was taken in by its upbeat energy — the samba rhythms, beachside buzz, and warm, welcoming spirit made it all feel very irresistible. When here, I ticked off all the touristy things – I hiked the mist-shrouded Tijuca Rainforest, admired the colorful Selarón Steps, explored bohemian Santa Teresa, soaked up the views from iconic Sugarloaf Mountain, samba danced in bohemian Lapa, watched the dazzling Ginga Tropical show and enjoyed a flavorful feijoada at the quirky Bar do Mineiro!
- Location: Southeast part of the country.
- Population size: around 6.7 million
- Map Location and Directions
My favorite highlights…
- Once staying in the incredible 4-star Vila Galé Rio de Janeiro – I was enchanted by its restored 19th-century palace setting and indulging in their Rio Colonial Hammam Ritual spa which came with a soothing coconut-infused salt scrub!
2. Lençóis National Park, Maranhão
I found myself mesmerized by this truly unique natural wonder! I discovered a breathtaking landscape of vast, surreal white sand dunes dotted with vivid turquoise lagoons — a magical sight that appeared after the rainy season. It felt serene, otherworldly, and unlike anywhere I’d ever been before!
From my charming Reviver Hostel base in São Luís, I took a 4-hour bus to Barreirinhas, the main gateway to the park, and joined a thrilling 4×4 tour across the dunes. I swam in the surreal, azure lagoons, cruised along the scenic Preguiças River, visited the peaceful fishing villages of Atins and Mandacaru, and ended the day watching a spectacular sunset glow over the endless sands! I just have to mention that access is limited in the dry season (lagoons often disappear from around September to December).
- Location: Along the Atlantic coast, in Maranhão, in the Northeast
- Size: 1,550 square kilometers
- Map Location and Directions
My favourite highlights…
- Finding out from our knowledgeable guide that the lagoons were filled with fish, including the wolffish – I was amazed to find they buried themselves in moist sand during the dry season and reawaken when the rains return!
3. Porto de Galinhas, Pernambuco
I thought this beach destination was paradise-like! I discovered wide stretches of soft white sand, aquamarine waters, colorful fishing boats, and clear natural pools teeming with marine life. The vibrant village, with its colonial-style buildings and lively beachfront restaurants, gave it a charming tropical feel.
I was really taken with its relaxed yet fun vibe — the perfect mix of beach bliss, culture, and nightlife. After flying into Recife International Airport, I drove an hour to Porto de Galinhas and spent an idyllic week at the Insta-worthy Pousada Maracabana Spa.
From snorkeling in clear natural pools and gliding on a jangada raft above glowing reefs to watching super-cute baby sea turtles hatch and exploring the lively, color-splashed village — every moment felt incredibly special!
- Location: Pernambuco, northeastern part of Brazil
- Population size: around 42,000
- Map Location and Directions
My highlights…
- Watching capoeira dancers move to the hypnotic beat of drums and the twang of the berimbau in the town square was utterly captivating!
4. Salvador, Bahia
Brazil’s first colonial capital, known as the “Capital of Happiness,” completely lived up to its name! I thought it was gorgeous, with cobblestone streets lined with colorful colonial buildings, ornate churches, lively squares, and golden beaches framed by coconut palms and ocean views.
One thing that really struck me was its joyful Afro-Brazilian energy — a heady mix of samba rhythms, street festivals, and warm, welcoming locals. After flying into Salvador-Deputado Luís Eduardo Magalhães International Airport, I drove 30 minutes to the city and spent a vibrant week at the colonial-style Hotel Villa Bahia.
I roamed through the pastel maze of the soulful Pelourinho district, soared up the art deco Elevador Lacerda (and was treated to epic views!), unwound on the sun-soaked Porto da Barra Beach, cheered mesmerizing capoeira shows, and devoured spicy Bahian street food at the bustling Mercado Modelo. My highlight was easily catching the electrifying Carnaval Baiano though — it was a joy-soaked riot of sound and color!
- Location: on coast of Bahia in the northeastern part of Brazil
- Population size: around 2.4 million
- Map Location and Directions
My personal highlights…
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Dining at Amado Restaurant – I loved its bayfront setting, rustic-chic decor adorned with local art, warm service, and my fragrant herbal pesto risotto topped with pistachios and char-grilled broccoli!
5. Chapada Diamantina, Bahia
I thought this vast national park was absolutely breathtaking! I discovered dramatic canyons, cascading waterfalls, ultra-clear cave pools, and mist-shrouded valleys framed by rocky plateaus and tropical forests. It felt like a remote, unspoiled paradise — both adventurous and deeply peaceful!
I drove six hours from Salvador to Lençóis, the main gateway, and spent five very special days exploring. I hiked to the towering Cachoeira da Fumaça, swam in the glowing blue waters of the ethereal Poço Azul and mystical Poço Encantado, and explored the vast caves of otherworldly Gruta da Lapa Doce. I also trekked through the stunning Vale do Pati, climbed the dramatic Morro do Pai Inácio (the views were sublime!), and stayed in the charming colonial town of Lençóis.
- Location: Bahia, Northeast part of the country.
- Size: 1,520-square-kilometers
- Map Location and Directions
My personal highlights…
- Swimming in Poço Azul, I was mesmerized by its 20-meter visibility — and when the March sunlight streamed through the cave opening, it lit up the translucent water so brilliantly I looked as if I was floating in midair!
6. Jericoacoara, Ceara
I thought the remote little beach town of Jericoacoara was utterly charming! I found it idyllic, with wide white-sand beaches curving into calm blue waters, framed by rolling dunes, lush mangroves, and sandy streets lined with pretty thatched-roof buildings. It felt rustic, bohemian, and blissfully laid-back — a paradise without the overdevelopment!
I have to admit, it took some effort to get there, but it was so worth it! I flew into Fortaleza, took a 4-hour bus to Jericoacoara, and crossed sandy tracks for the final stretch, which only added to its off-the-beaten-path allure.
I spent a week watching windsurfers skim the turquoise waves at peaceful Praia do Preá, climbing the cinematic Por do Sol dune, hiking to Pedra Furada’s photogenic rock arch, watching captivating capoeira shows at dusk, and swimming in the clear lagoons of Paraíso and Azul!
- Location: Ceará, Northeast part of the country.
- Population size: around 20,000
- Map Location and Directions
My favorite highlights…
- Staying at the funky, Insta-worthy Café Jeri Hotel – I adored its boho vibe with reclaimed teak furnishings, cotton-woven hammocks dyed in bright tropical hues, and handmade crafts of clay, straw, and driftwood!
7. Pantanal, Mato Grosso do Sul
This is one of the largest tropical wetlands on the planet, and I discovered it was utterly photogenic! I found vast open landscapes, lush vegetation, and an incredible variety of wildlife thriving in its unique aquatic ecosystem. It felt wonderfully remote and untouched — a true off-the-beaten-track adventure filled with both peace and raw natural beauty.
I flew into Campo Grande, then took a four-hour guided tour bus (partly on unpaved roads) into the extraordinary wetlands, where I stayed for four unforgettable days. I went on a thrilling river safari along the remote Paraguay River, hiked with a very knowledgeable local guide, and visited traditional fazendas (ranches). I have need to mention that I came in the wet season (which is November to March) so I found the mosquitoes and humidity to be intense!
- Location: state of Mato Grosso do Sul and extending into Mato Grosso, in the central-west part of the country.
- Map Location and Directions
- Wildlife: jaguars, capybaras, giant otters, caimans, anacondas, piranhas, and a variety of birds including hyacinth macaws and jabiru storks.
My highlights…
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Staying at the unique Pantanal Jungle Lodge – I really liked my bamboo-and-teak room, scenic wetland walkways, and their delicious pumpkin and coconut stew with cilantro and lemongrass!
8. Fernando de Noronha, Pernambuco
Fernando de Noronha completely captivated me — a volcanic UNESCO World Heritage archipelago of dramatic cliffs, golden beaches, and shimmering turquoise seas. I adored its peaceful, remote vibe and how carefully its pristine beauty had been protected.
After a two-hour flight from Natal, I arrived in this natural utopia — Fernando de Noronha — and spent four enchanting days at the beautiful casa-style Pousada do Vale. I snorkeled in Baía do Sancho’s turquoise waters (which is often regarded as one of the world’s best beaches!), hiked to breezy Forte dos Remédios and gazed at ocean views, swam with gorgeous sea turtles and watched sunsets at pristine Praia do Sueste.
- Location: around 350 kilometers off the northeastern coast
- Population size: around 3,000 (its restricted to preserve its delicate ecosystem).
- Map Location and Directions
- Wildlife: dolphins, reef sharks, sea turtles, and the endemic Noronha skink
My personal highlights…
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Hanging out at the organic Noronha All Natural – I adored the boho vibe, ocean-view hammocks, friendly owners, and tasty healthy dishes — especially the Moqueca de Palmitos and Açaí Recharge smoothie!
9. Iguaçu Falls, Paraná
This world-famous series of waterfalls was just pure cinema! I was blown away by this UNESCO World Heritage Site’s sheer size and power — around 275 mighty cascades thundering through lush tropical forest. Iguaçu Falls felt wild, exhilarating, and truly extraordinary!
I flew into Foz do Iguaçu International Airport, drove 30 minutes to the Falls, and spent three unforgettable days at the Insta-worthy LAS Hotel Boutique. I felt the roar of the thundering Devil’s Throat up close from the walkways, hiked through jungle-clad Iguazú National Park, took a thrilling boat ride beneath the cascades, and spent hours just admiring the breathtaking views from the platforms! I just saw that it could get very crowded, especially near the main viewpoints!
- Location: southern Brazil’s Paraná State, on the border with Argentina’s Misiones Province.
- Size: about 2.7 kilometers wide and vary in height from around 60 to 82 meters.
- Map Location and Directions
- Wildlife: toucans, capuchin monkeys, colorful butterflies, and even elusive jaguars
My favourite highlights…
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Hearing the almost deafening roar of the waterfalls blending with the melodic calls of tropical birds and the fresh, earthy scent of rain-soaked leaves drifting through the misty rainforest air!
10. Ilha Grande, Rio de Janeiro
Once a leper colony and prison, this tranquil, car-free island was captivating, with its mix of unspoiled beaches — from hidden sandy coves to long tropical shores backed by rainforest — and beautifully preserved colonial architecture. Its laid-back, slow-paced vibe completely won me over.
I took a one-hour ferry from Angra dos Reis and spent four gorgeous days exploring. I wandered the fascinating ruins of eerie Cândido Mendes Prison, hiked to the pristine Lopes Mendes Beach, snorkeled in the beautifully clear Lagoa Azul, relaxed on dreamy Aventureiro Beach, and climbed Pico do Papagaio where I admired the Insta-worthy panoramic views!
- Location: Southeast part of the country (located 12 miles off the coast of Rio de Janeiro)
- Population size: about 3,000
- Map Location and Directions
- Wildlife: howler monkeys, parrots, hummingbirds, sea turtles, tropical fish, and even the occasional whale or penguin
My highlights…
- Staying at the rustic-chic Mar da Lua – I really enjoyed the breezy bamboo decor and sipping a zesty Caipirinha de Maracujá while lounging in the ocean-view pool!
11. Paraty, Rio de Janeiro
The gorgeous historic coastal town Paraty completely charmed me! It was a pretty gem with colorful colonial buildings, uneven cobbled streets, a scenic waterfront, and a magnificent backdrop of green-blanketed mountains and pristine beaches. Its old-world charm mixed with a laid-back, artistic vibe made it feel very special.
I drove four hours from Rio de Janeiro and stayed four wonderful days at the charming casa-style Boutique Hotel Carpe Diem. I wandered the colonial streets, took a boat tour around the unspoilt bay, hiked the old Gold Trail (Caminho do Ouro), and relaxed on the secluded Sono Beach.
I also sampled fiery local cachaças at traditional distilleries, browsed artisan craft markets, and enjoyed live samba and bossa nova in the intimate music bars!
- Location: Along the Costa Verde in Rio de Janeiro in Southeast part of the country.
- Population size: around 43,000
- Map Location and Directions
My personal highlights…
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Hanging out at Apothekario, a quirky apothecary-themed bar with vintage cabinets and Edison bulbs – the bitter Negroni Jerez made with gin, Campari, and cachaça was a stand out!
12. Maragogi, Alagoas
Often called the “Brazilian Caribbean,” I thought this place was absolutely stunning! It really did feel tropical, with rows of coconut palms, rustic beachfront chalets, and wide stretches of powdery white sand fading into clear turquoise waters. I loved how uncommercialized it felt — peaceful, laid-back, and effortlessly beautiful.
I drove two hours from Recife and spent four dreamy days here. I snorkeled and scuba dived colorful coral reefs in the Galés aquamarine natural pools — which can only be accessed at low tide — relaxed on the pristine sands of Antunes Beach, kayaked along the calm Maragogi River, relaxed on the pristine sands of Antunes Beach, kayaked along the calm Maragogi River, dined on tapioca (a crepe made from cassava starch) at beachfront restaurants, and took a scenic boat trip to the secluded Xaréu Beach.
- Location: coast of Alagoas, Brazil, midway between Maceió and Recife in the Northeast part of the country.
- Population size: around 30,000
- Map Location and Directions
My favorite highlights…
- Staying at the boho Ecohar Yoga retreat – it was awesome sipping on a revitalizing cup of chimarrão while gazing at ocean views from my room’s floor-to-ceiling windows, the lovely owners (especially Isabel), and the calming Hatha yoga sessions!
13. Florianópolis, Santa Catarina
Florianópolis, the beautiful capital of Santa Catarina completely won me over! I personally thought it was a stunning gem, with its mix of colorful colonial buildings, sleek waterfront architecture, and incredible beaches. It had the perfect combination of laid-back surf culture and vibrant nightlife.
A true hub for outdoor adventures, it offered everything from mountain climbing and rowing to hang-gliding and paragliding. After a three-hour drive from Curitiba, I spent a week at the boho boutique Chalés Magia do Campeche — watching surfers at the vast Joaquina Beach, hiking to picturesque Morro da Cruz, exploring Santo Antônio de Lisboa’s historic charm, gorging on guava juice and flaky pastels at the chaotic Mercado Público, and dancing the night away in bohemian Lagoa da Conceição.
- Location: South part of the country
- Population size: around 500,000
- Map Location and Directions
My favorite highlights…
- Going for a night out at Santa Club Floripa’s reggae night – I soaked up the salty ocean breeze, lime-scented vodka cocktails, and the stunning coastal views from the open-air bar!
14. IlhaBela, São Paulo
The name of this island means “Beautiful Island,” and I couldn’t agree more! I thought it was gorgeous, with its colonial buildings, dense rainforest, and mix of calm golden coves and wild, untamed beaches. It had a relaxed yet adventurous vibe and a strong eco-focus I really admired!
I drove three hours from São Paulo to São Sebastião, took a short ferry, and spent four incredible days here — relaxing on palm-fringed Praia do Curral, off-roading to remote Castelhanos Beach, hiking misty rainforest trails in the tropical Ilhabela State Park, diving the haunting Príncipe de Astúrias shipwreck, and exploring the island’s attractive colonial center. I just have to mention that I found the sandflies to be a pesky problem — repellent is a must here!
- Location: 4 kilometers off the coast of São Paulo, Southeast part of the country.
- Population size: around 35,000
- Map Location and Directions
- Wildlife: dolphins, whales, monkeys, toucans, sloths, and sea turtles
My highlights…
- Staying at the gorgeous 4-star Bangalô Ilhabela – I really enjoyed the ocean views from the infinity pool and relaxing with a chilled Batida de Coco in my balcony hammock each morning!
15. The Amazon Rainforest
The Amazon, the world’s largest rainforest, completely amazed me! I thought it was just so unique — vast emerald canopies, remote river beaches, floating villages, and rustic eco-lodges surrounded by untouched wilderness. It had a wild, mysterious, and truly otherworldly vibe unlike anywhere I’d ever been.
I flew into Manaus, took a boat to a floating eco-lodge on the Rio Tapajós, and spent five extraordinary days at the Insta-worthy Uiara Amazon Resort. I explored the lively city of Manaus, witnessed the famous Meeting of the Waters, trekked through dense jungle, visited remote indigenous villages, and cruised through the captivating Anavilhanas Archipelago. I just have to mention that lodges here are remote so that meant there was limited Wi-Fi and electricity.
- Location: North part of the country.
- Size: spans around 6.7 million square kilometres in Brazil
- Map Location and Directions
- Wildlife: jaguars, monkeys, sloths, toucans, anacondas, piranhas, and rare pink dolphins.
My personal highlights…
- Going on an Amazon boat tour – I heard birds echo through the misty jungle, smelled rain-soaked wood, paddled past giant lilies, met the Dessanos and Tucanos peoples, and watched super-cute pink dolphins surface with gentle clicks!
16. Búzios, Rio de Janeiro
I thought Búzios was utterly charming – the attractive coastal town was home to cobblestone streets, colorful colonial-style buildings, and beaches ranging from calm coves to lively sun-soaked shores, all backed by emerald greenery and translucent aquamarine waters. I loved its laid-back yet cosmopolitan vibe — it was the perfect mix of beach-town charm and upscale nightlife!
I drove two hours from Rio de Janeiro and spent two wonderful days at the photo-worthy Vila d’Este Hotel. I relaxed on the sheltered Praia de João Fernandes, watched surfers at the shimmering Geribá Beach, explored the the trendy Rua das Pedras, took a boat tour to hidden Praia Brava, and ended my evenings enjoying chic restaurants and boutique shopping in town.
- Location: in the state of Rio de Janeiro in Southeast part of the country.
- Population size: around 30,000
- Map Location and Directions
- Wildlife: sea turtles, dolphins, and vibrant birdlife like pelicans and kingfishers.
My highlights…
- Dining at Quintal dos Búzios, I adored the kitsch lemon and lime tablecloths and antique art, and tucking into an exceptionally flavorful vegetarian feijoada with black beans, rice, orange slices, and crispy farofa!
17. Trancoso, Bahia
I adored this boho, picturesque village! It was a feast for the eyes – colorful colonial buildings, cobblestone streets, dramatic limestone cliffs, and a mix of peaceful and lively beaches surrounded by lashings of greenery. What I loved most was its relaxed, artistic, and eco-friendly vibe — it had a creative, community spirit that was all very me!
I flew into Porto Seguro Airport, drove 1.5 hours (there was uneven roads and limited public transport sadly) and spent five laid-back days at the gorgeous Hotel Boutique Bahia Bonita. I explored the colorful historic center and iconic Quadrado square, relaxed on the unspoiled sands of the heavenly Praia do Espelho and the wide Praia dos Nativos, browsed cute art galleries and craft shops, and enjoyed feasting on veggie Esfihas at the cozy Ca Cozinha.
- Location: in state of Bahia, Northeast part of the country.
- Population size: around 10,000
- Map Location and Directions
My highlights…
- People-watching in Quadrado Square – I really liked the pretty pastel houses, ocean-view church, and lively mix of locals and travelers quietly chatting beneath the shady almond trees!
Going to Visit brazil next week as I don’t know much about it so I was looking for a blog to know the best things to there thanks for this information. As Know I know What to do there.
WOOOOW the OXXXmmm place Brazil one day i will enjoy these natural beauty
Hi there
Hope everyone get a chance to come to Brazil specially to Jericoacoara!
Oh Jericoacoara is so beautiful and this PIC is so… Bleh. We can find great pics on google.
Visitem Ibicoara, localizada na Bahia,chapada diamantina.
Rio and Ouro Preto are my top choice 😉
Thanks Escape Hunter! Good choices 🙂
So many reasons to visit Brazil! I’d love to visit Salvador and Ilha Grande especially. Gorgeous photos!
Very true, there’s so much more to the country!
Thanks for the suggestions Gabriel!
Wow what a country, I really must visit one day!
Hope you make it one day Scott!
They all look beautiful! Would love to visit and every one of them!
What a beautiful place, would love to go there.
Ilha Grande is a new find for me.. wow! so beautiful. Brazil is definitely one to really explore – thanks for the post, a great eye opener!
Thanks Adam!
There is also Pantanal in the state of Mato Grosso, not only in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul.
Congratulations though for the overall text and pictures!
I want to go to all of these places! Brazil has been on my list for a long time now! Thanks for sharing.
Happy travels 🙂
I admire travelers who focus on South America, it’s such a gorgeous region with so much to see. Thanks for the inspiration!
Wow, I’ve fallen in love just with the pictures alone! It would be nice to get back to Brazil one day. Clearly Rio has so much to offer I could need an extended trip there.
I’m in love with Rio de Janeiro!!! Hope to make it there soon, perhaps in 2015!
What lovely photos and a great read! I wish I had spent longer in Brazil when I went last year as only saw Rio and Iguazu and would have loved to have visited some other parts including Salvador and Pantanal. I also can’t believe Ilha Grande was right there and I didn’t even know about it till just now! It looks stunning 🙂