Travel to Brazil — everything you need to know

When to go to Brazil?

Weather in Brazil

Check the weather city by city, starting with Brasília.

What to do in Brazil?

Brazil is the giant of South America, the land of samba, Carnival and the Amazon. Rio's legendary beaches, its vast rainforest, the Iguazú Falls and its vibrant Afro-Brazilian culture make it one of the world's richest travel destinations.

Rio de Janeiro

The Cidade Maravilhosa is Brazil's postcard image, with Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf Mountain and the beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema. Its annual Carnival is the biggest show on earth.

Highlights : Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf Mountain, Copacabana Beach, Santa Marta Favela.

Salvador de Bahia

Salvador is the heart of Afro-Brazilian culture: Pelourinho (a UNESCO-listed colonial district), candomblé, capoeira and music everywhere you go. Bahian cuisine is among the tastiest in the country.

Highlights : Pelourinho, Bonfim Church, São Joaquim Market, Lake Itaparica.

Amazon & Manaus

The world's largest rainforest is best explored from Manaus. Jungle lodges, canoe trips on the Rio Negro and the Meeting of the Waters (Negro + Solimões) make for unforgettable experiences.

Highlights : Meeting of the Waters, Teatro Amazonas, Jaú National Park, Anavilhanas Archipelago.

Fernando de Noronha

This volcanic archipelago 350 km off the coast is one of the most beautiful diving destinations in the world. Dolphins, sea turtles and crystal-clear blue-green waters await in a beautifully preserved setting.

Highlights : Praia do Sancho, Dolphin Bay, Marine National Park, Pico da Bandeira.

Bonito & Pantanal

Bonito is famous for its crystal-clear rivers where you can swim alongside colourful fish. The nearby Pantanal is the world's largest wetland and offers unmatched jaguar sightings.

Highlights : Rio da Prata, Pantanal, Blue Lake Cave, Pantanal Park Road.

São Paulo

South America's largest metropolis, São Paulo is Brazil's economic and cultural powerhouse. World-class museums, a buzzing food scene and abundant street art make it a vibrant urban capital. Its nightlife and cosmopolitan diversity never sleep.

Highlights : São Paulo Museum of Art — MASP, Ibirapuera — Brazil's Central Park, Vila Madalena & street art, Municipal Market, Paulista Avenue & nightlife.

Travel budget for Brazil

Brazil offers good value for money, especially in the Northeast. Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo are more expensive. Getting around the country often involves domestic flights.

Practical tips for travelling to Brazil

Compare Brazil with other destinations