Vast, vibrant and magnetic, Brazil is a melting pot of cultures, ethnicities, rituals and religions – a product of its patchwork past of local traditions, colonial rule and influx of immigrants. It is South America’s largest country, with a landmass comparable to that of the United States, and a mosaic of ecosystems that supports the largest array of flora and fauna on the planet. The Brazilian people are typically warm and friendly, while the country’s natural diversity lends itself to myriad travel experiences, from idyllic coastal holidays and riotous Carnaval celebrations, to stopovers in the dynamic cities of Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, and not to mention, adventure-filled forays into the Amazon jungle.

Rio de Janeiro

Brazil’s second-largest city and one of the world’s most popular tourism destinations, Rio de Janeiro is renowned for its beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, the iconic Sugar Loaf Mountain and the massive, majestic statue of Christ atop the Corcavado peak. The highlight of Rio’s social calendar is Carnaval, in the weeks leading up to Lent, when the city becomes a riot of colour, music and festivities, with thousands of costumed revellers parading through the street in what the locals call the ‘Greatest Show on Earth’.

 

Foz do Iguazu

 

Functioning as the base for visits to Iguazu Falls on the Brazilian side of the border, Foz do Iguazu is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country and consequently encompasses a wide selection of hotels and guesthouses. Apart from the falls, area attractions include the Iguazu National Park, the Itaipu Dam and the Omar Ibn Al-Khattab mosque.

 

Paraty

 

On the Costa Verde, surrounded by quiet beaches and peninsulas, you will find the beguiling town of Paraty. Known for its exceptional colonial architecture, the historical district is a joy to explore, with cobblestone streets winding between whitewashed buildings and baroque churches. Cultural offerings are not limited to the historical however – Paraty is home to many creative souls and entrepreneurs from around the world, whose restaurants, galleries and shops give the town a cosmopolitan feel. Nature lovers will enjoy the nearby reserves, parks and mountains that surround this enticing destination.

 

Fortaleza

 

The growing appeal of the sprawling capital of the northeastern state of Ceará can be attributed to its growing economy, sunny beaches, a colourful and safe nightlife, delicious local fare, friendly and amicable locals, and its rich and engaging Brazilian culture. Despite being the smallest state in the country, Ceará has one of the longest coastlines, with Fortaleza having a number of urban beaches for tourists to enjoy. Sightseeing includes the Centro de Turismo, a converted 19th-century jail housing a museum that showcases the best of Ceará arts and craft, and the Centro Dragão do Mar de Arte e Cultura, a complex offering two museums, a planetarium, quaint cafés and performance areas.

 

Recife

 

The beachside city of Recife is one destination you don’t want to just pass through – its abundant charms will appeal to anyone from the carnival enthusiast and the sun worshipper, to the foodie and the shopaholic. The southern side of the city is a tourist hotspot, lying along the famous Boa Viagem Beach – a wide bay of azure waters backed by a bustling promenade packed with restaurants, hotels and bars – and perfect for those seeking sun, fun and festivities. To sample some of the local culture, visitors can explore the atmospheric Old Town or take in a display of Capoeira Pernambuco – a traditional martial art – while nature lovers should head to the world-famous Pernambuco Forests or the Recife Brazil Iberapuera Park, a perfect setting in which to relax and unwind.

 

Curitiba

 

Situated in Brazil’s Parana State, the city of Curitiba serves as the capital of the region. Renowned for its excellent layout, the city features a perfect blend of modern and traditional architecture. This multicultural city features a wonderful selection of parks and boasts a downtown pedestrian zone stretching over six blocks. Visitors can enjoy a wide variety of activities including: visiting the stunning observatory at the top of the Panoramic Tower, exploring the Wire Opera House, with its tubular steel and impressive transparent roof as well as visiting the massive Teatro Guaira. Don’t miss the Botanical Garden of Curitiba, featuring French-style gardens crowned with a spectacular Art-Nouveau-style greenhouse reminiscent of the mid-19th century Crystal Palace.

 

Porto Alegre

 

Porto Alegre is the vibrant capital city of Rio Grande de Sol Province and is southern Brazil’s major economic and cultural hub. It is home to over 20 universities and colleges and has earned a reputation as a leading city in scientific and technological research. It is the heartland of the Gaucho people – a unique culture that has been built on the eclectic influences of indigenous groups, as well as the Spanish and Portuguese immigrants, and embraces the principles of farming and love of the land. The city is set on the banks of the Rio Guaiba and a boat cruise is a great way to see the beauty of the river and the small settlements along its banks. To get a glimpse of the community’s most burning passions – take in performance of traditional Gaucho dancing and a soccer match at the celebrated Arena do Gremio. Or simply sit back and watch the world go by on one of the city’s historical squares while you sip a cup of Matte – a favourite local brew.

 

Petropolis

 

Take a trip through time to this stately mountain town, which once was the summer residence of Brazil’s royal family and is still sometimes referred to as Brazil’s ‘Imperial City’. Set in a scenic Alpine valley, Petropolis’ key attractions include the Imperial Museum, formerly the summer palace of the second Brazilian emperor and now housing an array of opulent royal relics; the Serra dos Órgãos National Park, famous for the ‘God’s Finger (Dedo de Deus) rock formation, which resembles an index finger raised to the sky; and the Rua Teresa, Brazil’s number one retail destination, where keen shoppers can trawl a wealth of clothing stores offering quality goods at excellent prices.

 

Maceio

 

Situated along Brazil’s beautiful coastline, Maceio is a city is the capital of the state of Alagoas. It serves as an excellent stopover on the road between Recife and Salvador. Maceio is best known for its vibrant nightlife, excellent snorkelling, and pristine palm-fringed beaches lapped by crystal-clear calm waters. The coast is protected by a barrier reef which has created a series of idyllic natural pools in the sea. Visitors can look forward to enjoying a variety of activities such as: exploring the historical city centre with its pastel-coloured colonial houses as well as many heritage buildings, sampling delicious local cuisine, and relaxing on picturesque beaches. Other popular activities include: boating, diving, and swimming. Don’t miss the excitement of the annual ‘Carnaval’ and Maceio Music Festival.

 

Gramado

 

Situated in the Rio Grande do Sul State in Brazil, Gramado is a mountain resort town with a quaint Bavian-like atmosphere. It boasts a collection of little artisan boutiques, chocolatiers and comfortable alpine chalets. Visitors can enjoy hiking through the beautiful Serra Gaucha Mountains, pedal-boat along Lago Negro, and shop at a collection of fascinating avant-garde boutiques. Other popular attractions include: Miniworld, the Wax Museum, the Festivals Palace and the Culture Centre. If you are lucky enough to visit during the festive season you can enjoy a magical Christmas light display.

 

Campo Grande

 

The largest city of the Brazilian state of Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande is situated in the Center-West region of the country. Nicknamed Cidade Morena because of the reddish-brown colour of the region’s soil, the city is known for its diversity of culture, array of fascinating museums, and picturesque city parks. The town is home to the rich heritage of native Indians, Italians, Germans, Syrian-Lebanese, Japanese, Paraguayans and Bolivians, among others. Several museums offer insight into these cultures, such as the The Indigenous Culture Memorial, with exhibits a tribal straw and bamboo village, workshop and craft stalls. The wealth of parks offer something for everyone, from enormous parks with motorbike trails and waterfalls to smaller well-maintained and idyllic family parks with kiosks and picnic spots.

 

Ubatuba

 

Set along Brazil’s beautiful coastline, Ubatuba is known for the large selection of beaches which surround it. This seaside town rests in the foothills of the majestic Serra do Mar Mountains blanketed in indigenous flora. The area is known for its many upmarket resorts, hotels and elegant beach homes. Visitors can look forward to a variety of wonderful activities including: excellent diving, boating, surfing, hiking, as well as discovering magnificent waterfalls and enjoying the vibrant nightlife. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the nearby Serra do Mar National Park, catch some waves at the well-known Itamambuca Beach and spot an abundance of hatching turtles.

Olinda

 

 

Situated just north of the city of Recife on Brazil’s northeast coast, the historic city of Olinda is one of the best-preserved, most picturesque colonial towns in Brazil. It is known for its heritage buildings, rich culture, and scenic cityscapes. Olinda serves as one of Brazil’s cultural centres and has developed a reputation as a vibrant artist’s colony with many galleries and artisans’ workshops. Visitors can look forward to exploring the UNESCO-listed historic downtown area, featuring streets fringed by a host of fascinating museums, old Baroque-style churches and colourful 18th-century colonial architecture everywhere you look. Olinda also plays host to the best Carnival in Brazil, where hundreds of parades invade the streets in festive mode.

 

Lençóis

 

Bordering the expansive Chapada Diamantina National Park in Bahia, eastern Brazil, the old diamond-mining town of Lencois is surrounded by majestic mountains, densely wooded forests, and cascading waterfalls. Lencois serves as an excellent base from which to explore the magnificent northeastern interior. The picturesque town features charming cobbled streets lined with vibrant cafes and restaurants, and colourful 19th-century colonial buildings. Visitors can explore the Casa de Cultura Afranio Peixoto, a museum in memory of a famous local writer, visit the whitewashed Senhor dos Passos Church and explore the Praca Otaviano Alves and Praca Horacio de Matos squares in the town centre.

 

Lençóis Maranhenses National Park

 

Situated in the Maranhao state on Brazil’s northern coast, the Lencois Maranhenses National Park covers an impressive 1550 square kilometres. This wild and remote landscape is characterised by pristine beaches, sparkling rainwater lakes and an endless expanse of white undulating sand dunes, for which the park is famous, fringing the coastline and stretching inland. Visitors can look forward to spotting an array of wildlife including migratory birds and turtles, soaking up the breathtakingly beautiful landscapes and enjoying a thrilling scenic aerial flight over this magnificent terrain. This photographer’s dream offers visitors the opportunity to explore a natural dream-like landscape. Other popular activities include: swimming, hiking, paddle-boarding, kayaking and exploring the mangrove swamps.

 

Balneário Camboriú

 

Located in southern Brazil, Balneario Camboriu is a popular resort city positioned along Brazil’s spectacularly scenic coast. It is best known for its pristine beaches which are fringed by side-to-side skyscrapers. Along the beachfront boulevard, visitors can enjoy a variety of shops, lively cafes, trendy bars and restaurants. The undeniable highlight of the city is the six-hectare Unipraias Park, featuring lovely walking trails and a cable car that offers a half an hour ride over spectacular Atlantic rainforest to beautiful beaches. Other popular activities include an array thrilling watersports such as sailing, surfing, and swimming, as well as sunbathing on sun-soaked beaches, and viewing the Cristo Luz Monument, a massive statue that overlooks the city.

 

Sao Paulo

 

Sao Paulo is Brazil’s largest and most populous urban centre, home to roughly 20 million people in the metropolitan area alone. The capital of Sao Paulo State and the country’s unofficial business capital, the city is also known for its effervescent culture, with myriad entertainment options and a colourful nightlife. Highlight attractions of the city include: the Avenida Paulista, with its commercial epicentre presenting a wide array of shops, restaurants, bookstores and art exhibitions; Bixiga, a ‘little Italy’ known for its theatre scene and vibrant nightlife; the Chinatown district of Liberdade; and Ibirapuera Park, popular for its walking and jogging trails, three museums, free concerts and gorgeous Japanese garden.

 

Manaus

 

Manaus might be surprising to those expecting to see only dense Amazonian jungle. The capital of the Amazon, its largest city and primary tourism hub, Manaus is a bustling urban centre permeated with brightly coloured residential homes, modern high-rise buildings and tour offices where you can book jungle lodges and river cruises. It is located on the banks of the Rio Negro, just a few kilometres from where it joins the Amazon River, a confluence known as the ‘Meeting of the Waters’, which is accessible by boat from Manaus. According to local lore, the two rivers run side by side for six kilometres without mixing and, in fact, it’s possible to feel the different temperatures of the two water sources by dipping your hand into the currents on either side of the vessel.

 

Chapada Diamantina National Park

 

Set in the heart of the landlocked Chapada Diamantina (Diamond Plateau) region of the Bahia state in northeastern Brazil, the beautiful Chapada Diamantina National Park is known for its unique natural beauty and remote tranquillity. ‘Chapada’ is a Brazilian word meaning ‘region of steep cliffs at the edge of a plateau’ and ‘Diamantina’ refers to the diamonds found there in the mid-19th century. This 1,520 square-kilometre national park features river-formed cave systems, cascading waterfalls, soaring mountains, meandering rivers, lush valleys and natural swimming holes. Visitors can look forward to an endless network of scenic cactus-dotted hiking trails, and spotting an impressive variety of flora and fauna including jaguar, monkey, the South American coati, macaws, and deer.

 

Florianopolis

 

Situated on Brazil’s southeastern coast in the Santa Catarina State, Florianopolis is made up primarily of one main island, Ilha de Santa Catarina. The city is a popular tourist destination, known for its vibrant nightlife, lovely beaches, excellent surf and prolific outdoor activities. The destination features annually on the World Tour for the Association of Professional Surfers and also hosts the Florianopolis Gay Carnival, which attracts tens of thousands of revellers each year. Lagoa da Conceicao, a saltwater lagoon, provides excellent windsurfing and boating. The historic center of the city offers fantastic architecture such as the Cathedral Metropolitana, as well as beautiful leafy parks, markets, museums, bars and restaurants. The State Park Of Serra do Tabuleiro boasts picture-perfect mountains, rivers and waterfalls, and is inhabited by endangered species such as tapirs and capybaras.

 

Joao Pessoa

 

Resting near the mouth of the Paraiba River on Brazil’s northeast coast, Joao Pessoa is the country’s third-oldest city and boasts a wealth of striking architecture; a flourishing arts and culture scene; and stunning, quiet beaches. The crowning glory of the town’s buildings is the architecturally-confused Sao Francisco Monastery, which was built over two centuries beginning in 1589 and features a dramatic combination of styles, including ornate gold decoration and brightly coloured ceilings. Joao Pessoa is rich in performing and other arts, with the Jose Lins Do Rego Cultural Center providing visitors with a fascinating offering of art installations, musical concerts, and film viewings. The largest drawcard of the town, however, its abundance of various long stretches of soft sand lapped by calm, turquoise waters. The beaches are known among locals for their relative quiet away from the holiday crowds.

 

Ilha Grande

 

A tropical paradise just off the bustling shoreline of Rio de Janeiro, Ilha Grande remains largely undeveloped due to its former zoning as a leper colony and later a security prison, which closed in 1994. The 193 km2 (75 sq mi) island boasts over 100 beautiful beaches and secluded coves, while its interior is largely covered by Atlantic rainforest. This pristine jungle shelters some of the largest remaining populations of endangered species such as the brown howler monkey, the red-browed Amazon parrot, the maned sloth and the broad-snouted caiman. Travellers can pick and choose their beach for the day; enjoy snorkelling in bays rich with marine life, or cruise the picturesque coastline by boat.

 

Belem

 

Situated in the Brazilian state of Para, the city of Belem serves as the capital of the state. It provides an excellent jumping off point from which to explore Brazil’s majestic Amazon River. This bustling metropolis is surrounded by wild tropical rainforest, is known for its historical charm and features streets lined with mango trees. Visitors can look forward to exploring the Cidade Velha – the riverfront Old Town – boasting perfectly preserved Colonial-era architecture; strolling through the Rodrigues Alves Wood Botanical Garden and browsing the vibrant Ver-o-Peso Market. Other highlights include: lush parks, fascinating museums and restaurants serving delicious Indian cuisine.

 

Natal

 

Those in search of a quieter corner of Brazil will find it in Natal. Situated on the Atlantic coast, Natal boasts beautiful white sandy beaches met by crystal clear waters, including the famous Genipabu where visitors can take buggy or dromedary rides over ever shifting sand dunes. History buffs will enjoy the Natal Historic Centre, which comprises 150 colonial and architectural landmarks, and Fortos dos Reis Magos – a star-shaped fortress dating back over 400 years and offering stunning views of the city. Natal is also home to “Carnatal”, a four day off-season carnival that is tamer version of the famous Rio Carnival.

 

Morro de Sao Paulo

 

Set on the remote northeastern tip of Brazil’s Tinhare Island, the village of Morro de Sao Paulo features a rich heritage, unique geography, excellent nightlife and palm-fringed white-sand beaches lapped by crystal-clear turquoise waters. This tropical paradise offers visitors an array of comfortable places to stay and the opportunity to enjoy a wide selection of adventure activities including watersports such as surfing, scuba diving, wakeboarding, and banana boating. Visitors can sample local cuisine at a variety waterfront restaurants lining the picturesque Second Beach; discover the intricately carved wooden altar at the whitewashed Church of Our Lady of Light, and explore the ancient ruins of the 17th-century Tapirandu Fortress. This lovely village provides a relaxing atmosphere as there are no cars allowed on the island, adding to the holiday charm of this peaceful retreat.

 

Ilhabela

 

Located just off the Sao Paulo coast of Brazil, also known as St.Sebastian Island, Ilhabela is an island of contrasts boasting a vibrant nightlife and a buzzing urban energy on one side whilst on the other side secluded beaches remain largely unexplored. Ilhabela, meaning ‘beautiful island’ in Portuguese, is actually an archipelago made up of numerous other islands and islets. This lush, forested, mountainous island makes up most of the Marinha da Ilha das Cabras Reserve and boasts over forty exceptional beaches and spectacular waterfalls. It is a watersport mecca playing host to several sailing regattas as well as offering visitors excellent diving, snorkelling, and freediving, with the surrounding waters of the archipelago filled with more than 50 shipwrecks. Other popular activities include: whale watching, dolphin viewing, hiking, surfing, mountain biking, and excellent bird watching.

 

Angra dos Reis

 

Situated in the Brazilian state of Rio de Janeiro, Angra dos Reis encompasses 365 small picturesque islands and it is also the name of the town which serves as an excellent jumping off point for visitors wishing to explore the beautiful island of Ilha Grande. Renowned for its natural beauty and pristine beaches, the area boasts over 2000 magnificent beaches lapped by impossibly blue crystalline waters. Visitors flock here to immerse themselves in this picture-perfect beach paradise, explore adventure trails, discover waterfalls and view the mansions of the rich and famous dotting private islands. Other popular activities include: swimming, snorkelling, diving, boating, and lazing on idyllic beaches.

 

Iguacu National Park

 

The Iguaçu National Park, established in 1939, houses the largest remaining Atlantic forest (semideciduos) of southern Brazil. The park protects a rich biodiversity, consisting of representative species of Brazilian fauna and flora, some of which are threatened with extinction, such as jaguar (Pantheraonca), puma (Puma concolor), broad-snouted caiman (Caimanlatirostris), parrot -of-breasted purple (vinacea Amazona), harpy eagle (Harpy harpyja) peroba pink (Aspidospermapolyneutron) ariticum (Rolliniasalicifolia), araucaria (Araucariaaugustifolia), as well as many other species of great value and scientific interest.

 

United by the river Iguaçu to the Iguazú National Park in Argentina, the park includes the most biological continuous important South-Central South America, with over 600 hectares of protected areas and other 400 000 in even primeval forests, unique responsibility to joint actions between Brazil and Argentina in preservation efforts of this important world heritage.

 

Iguazu Falls

 

It is said that the former first lady of America, Eleanor Roosevelt, exclaimed her ‘pity’ for her country’s Niagara Falls when she first encountered the beauty of Iguazu Falls. This magnificent waterfall marks the confluence of the Iguazu River in Argentina and the Parana River in Brazil, and the meeting of the two countries is marked by stone pillars rising from the water. Roughly half the combined volume of both rivers thunders into the Devil’s Throat, a U-shaped cataract that delivers a torrential deluge of water into the wide basin below.

 

Porto Seguro

 

Situated along Brazil’s spectacularly scenic coast, the resort town of Porto Seguro is a popular tourist destination. It is known as the original touch down point for the Portuguese explorers and today, this once quiet fishing village serves as the commercial and transport hub of the region. Porto Seguro also serves as the gateway to a stunning collection of remote beaches and upmarket beach towns which dot the coast. The city features a vibrant nightlife; a number of hotels, guest houses and restaurants; as well as a fascinating historic centre peppered with colourful colonial buildings. Visitors can enjoy a delicious sundowner at a variety of beach bars, explore the Monte Pascoal National Park which is home to many indigenous plants and wildlife; and view an array of coral during low tide at the amazing Recife de Fora Sea Park.

 

Maragogi

 

Located on the Atlantic Coast of eastern Brazil, Maragogi is a resort town best known for its shallow lagoons, coral reefs and endless beaches. This small beach town boasts numerous guest houses, shop-lined streets and waterfront restaurants. Visitors can look forward to a number of wonderful activities such as: exploring the colourful reefs, natural pools, and sandbars in the spectacularly scenic Gales Marine Reserve; jump on a day trip to Porto de Galinhas, and enjoy sampling freshly caught seafood while sipping on a cocktail and soaking up idyllic ocean views. Other popular activities include: swimming, boating, sailing, kayaking, snorkelling, diving and spending lazy days on unspoilt beaches.

 

Trancoso

 

A visit to Trancoso on Brazil’s vast northeastern coast is an invitation to partake in ‘active loafing’. Made popular – perhaps rather aptly – by São Paulo’s hippy set in the ‘70s, this former fishing village has its own languorous pace that sees most shops opening for business during the mid-afternoon. The powdery white sand and natural sea pools of Espelho Beach will occupy you in the meantime. Alternatively, visit the village’s landmark 16-century church – one of the oldest in Brazil and the focal point of the grassy Quadrada – or the town square, which is framed by colourful houses, eateries, and quaint accommodation. Kayaking, snorkelling, wind and kite-surfing can be arranged and for a taste of local action, visit the Capoeira Academy at the Uxua Casa Hotel.

 

Salvador

 

One of the oldest cities in Brazil, Salvador is known for its rich culture, hospitable locals and laid-back atmosphere. Set against a backdrop of impressive architecture, this attractive coastal destination is a place where entertainment, music and fine cuisine abound, earning it the nickname the ‘capital of happiness’. Highlights of the area include its lovely beaches and ocean views, 17th century fort, São Joaquim craft market and array of fascinating museums. The best time to visit Salvador is during the annual Carnaval, when the streets come alive with colours, costumes, dancing and festivities.

 

Fernando de Noronha

 

Visiting the island of Fernando do Noronha, off Brazil’s northeast coast, is a very special experience. The area was declared a national maritime park in 1988, and only 420 visitors are allowed at any one time. It lies in a volcanic archipelago of 21 islands that offer rugged landscapes of sculpted rock, rushing waterfalls and natural pools. Further exploration will reveal unspoiled white beaches and waters teeming with colourful fish, dolphins and turtles. Discovered in the early 1500s, its history includes being a pirate lair and the site of a political prison. Nowadays, its remoteness and rich ocean life combine to make it a perfect marine wonderland retreat.

 

Buzios

 

With its quaint architecture and cobbled streets, Armação dos Búzios, popularly known as Búzios, combines an old-world village charm with a sophisticated offering of boutiques, fine restaurants, villas and hotels. The town, once a simple fishing village, grew to its status as an upscale and fashionable tourist destination after French actress Brigitte Bardot visited with her Brazilian boyfriend in the early ‘60s. Situated on a jutting peninsula roughly two hours from Rio de Janeiro, Búzios’s west beaches offer clear, calm waters and relaxing views, while the east side facing the open ocean draws water-sports enthusiasts from far and wide.

 

Belo Horizonte

 

Situated in southeastern Brazil’s Minas Gerais State, the city of Belo Horizonte is Brazil’s third largest city and serves as the capital of the region. It is surrounded by the majestic Espinhaco Mountains and stretches over a series of undulating hills. Belo Horizonte features modern skyscrapers, top-notch restaurants, fascinating museums, and a network of bustling streets. This charming city provides a popular starting point for those wishing to travel the Estrada Real, the ‘Royal Road’, a colonial-era road linking the most important historic towns in the region, featuring incredible Baroque architectural splendours. Visitors can look forward to browsing the Mercado Central, a traditional market packed with fascinating stalls; sampling local cuisine at one of the many restaurants in Lourdes and explore the buzzing Savassi neighbourhood.

 

Ouro Preto

 

Set in the remote and rugged Serra do Espinhaco mountains of eastern Brazil, the historic colonial town of Ouro Preto has been preserved as a national monument and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a bustling University town as well as a popular tourist destination. This incredibly picturesque town is known for its ancient churches, winding cobblestoned streets, charming town squares, red-tiled roofs, fountains and wonderful Baroque architecture. Visitors can explore the 18th-century St. Francis of Assisi Church, stroll through the ancient streets, and discover the many squares including Praca Tiradentes, the town’s main square lined with an array of shops and cafes.

 

Arraial do Cabo

 

Located in the Brazilian state of Rio de Janeiro, the city of Arraial do Cabo is an Atlantic paradise surrounded by magnificent unspoilt beaches lapped by crystal-clear waters. It is said to be the scuba diving capital of Brazil, offering visitors the opportunity to explore 88 different offshore shipwrecks and also the famed Gruta Azul, the Blue Grotto Cave. The surrounding landscape features brilliant white undulating dunes, emerald waters, sandbanks, lagoons, beaches and headlands. Visitors can spend lazy days on a number of pristine beaches namely Grande, Forno, Farol and Pontal do Atalaia; spot diverse marine life such as humpback whales, stingrays, dolphins and turtles; and jump on a thrilling boat excursion around this picturesque area.

 

Bonito

 

Situated in the southwestern corner of the state of Mato Grosso do Sul, the picturesque playground of Bonito is known as the heart of ecotourism in Brazil. This town is a popular tourist destination as it is encircled by idyllic surrounds featuring cascading waterfalls, lush forests, crystal-clear rivers and otherworldly caves sheltering sparkling lakes and ancient stalactites. Renowned for its incredible natural beauty, this ecological paradise boasts a unique biodiversity. Visitors can look forward to a wide variety of exciting activities including: exploring the underwater wonderland on one of many snorkelling excursions through crystalline waters, hiking along a network of scenic trails, and spelunking through some of the most breathtakingly beautiful caverns in the world.

 

Praia do Forte

 

Located 80 kilometres from the city of Salvador de Bahia in northeastern Brazil, Praia do Forte is a quaint village featuring a long stretch of magnificent beach of the same name, featuring palm-lined white-sand beaches. Praia do Forte is an upmarket tourist destination popular with visitors from all corners of the globe. Visitors can enjoy browsing Alameda do Sol, a pedestrian walkway fringed with lively restaurants and shops, discovering the picturesque little seaside church of Sao Francisco, featuring Colonial Portuguese architecture and visiting Projeto Tamar, a sea turtle reserve. Don’t miss a visit to the nearby Sapiranga Forest Reserve as well as the ruins of Garcia D’Avila Castle located just outside the village. Popular activities include: sightseeing, swimming, shopping, zipline, biking, and canoeing.

 

Sao Luis

 

Situated in northeastern Brazil, the town of Sao Luis is separated into two areas by the waters of the Rio Anil. While beaches and modern tourist attractions can be found on the northern side of the river, the town’s highlight – its historic centre – lies south of the Rio Anil. Encompassing numerous examples of beautifully preserved colonial Portuguese architecture, this World Heritage Site is particularly well known for its unusual tiled buildings. To add to its allure, Sao Luis’s also has a rich culture: Afro-Brazilian influences can be found in the local cuisine, the reggae music scene and, most interesting of all, the Bumba Meu Boi traditions that are celebrated during colourful annual festivals.

 

Belem

 

Situated in the Brazilian state of Para, the city of Belem serves as the capital of the state. It provides an excellent jumping off point from which to explore Brazil’s majestic Amazon River. This bustling metropolis is surrounded by wild tropical rainforest, is known for its historical charm and features streets lined with mango trees. Visitors can look forward to exploring the Cidade Velha – the riverfront Old Town – boasting perfectly preserved Colonial-era architecture; strolling through the Rodrigues Alves Wood Botanical Garden and browsing the vibrant Ver-o-Peso Market. Other highlights include: lush parks, fascinating museums and restaurants serving delicious Indian cuisine.

 

Santos

 

Located in the Brazillian state of Sao Paulo, the municipality of Santos, is also the name of a port town by the same name. Santos is home to the largest port in South America and features the world’s longest landscaped oceanfront garden fringing the spectacular 6,5-kilometre beach. The beautiful beach is edged by high rise hotels and the streets of the city are filled with fortune tellers, herbalists, and entertainers. Visitors can look forward to an array of activities including: visiting the aquarium, exploring the Brazilian Coffee Museum and discovering the area’s natural beauty at Laje de Santos Marine State Park, the first marine park created by the state.

 

Amazon Basin

 

Occupying roughly seven million square kilometres of surface area, the Amazon Basin is a lush wilderness that encompasses the planet’s largest rainforest and the world’s second longest river. Extending across sections of Brazil, Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana, Peru, Suriname and Venezuela, it is a region of thriving biodiversity and striking beauty. The basin features a staggering array of plant and animal life, and the intrepid travellers who visit here have the chance of encountering such exotic creature as anacondas, piranhas, sloths, capybaras, and – if you’re lucky – even elusive jaguars, pumas and ocelots.

 

Amazon Delta

 

The Amazon Delta – or the “River Sea”, as it is sometimes referred to – is a 240km wide and 80m long estuary, which in total makes up 18% of the world’s fresh water. It is made up of an intricate ecosystem of waterways, beaches and islands (one of which alone is the size of Switzerland) surrounded by the world’s largest rainforest, home to roughly one third of the world’s fauna and a cornucopia of floral species. Travelling here is not for the faint-hearted, but if its adventure, nature and wildlife you’re after, the region will be right up your street.

 

The Amazon

 

The Amazon Jungle is famous worldwide as a biodiversity hotspot and a dream destination for intrepid travellers, known for its wealth of exotic wildlife and flora. Although it extends across seven different South American nations, approximately 60% of the Amazon falls into Brazilian territory, taking up an area roughly the same size as Western Europe. Visitors who venture here will have the privilege of entering a world apart – a lush wilderness teeming with plant and animal life, dotted with indigenous villages, and offering the experience of a lifetime.