Places to visit in Brazil: 30 incredible destinations!

Brazil is a country full of cultural, natural and historical diversity, offering a multitude of incredible destinations for travelers to explore. From the paradisiacal beaches of the Northeast to the majestic landscapes of the Amazon, there is something for all tastes and interests. 

30 places to visit in Brazil and be amazed

Brazil is a country of continental dimensions, full of stunning landscapes, rich cultural diversity and a fascinating history. From the paradisiacal beaches of the Northeast to the majestic forests of the Amazon, every corner of this country holds secrets and beauties that surprise even the most experienced travelers.

1. Rio de Janeiro, RJ

Rio de Janeiro is much more than just a city; it is a true icon of Brazil, known worldwide for its stunning natural beauty and vibrant lifestyle. Nestled between mountains covered in lush greenery and the blue-green sea of the Atlantic Ocean, Rio captivates visitors with its unique blend of urban settings and exuberant nature.

One of Rio's most iconic attractions is Christ the Redeemer, which rises majestically at the top of Corcovado Hill, offering a breathtaking panoramic view of the city. Next to it, Sugar Loaf Mountain, with its cable car, offers an unparalleled experience as it lifts visitors to the top, from where they can contemplate the breathtaking landscape of Guanabara Bay.

2. Fernando de Noronha, PE

A paradisiacal archipelago with white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters and exuberant marine life, ideal for diving and ecotourism.

3. Bonito, MS

Located in the heart of the state of Mato Grosso do Sul, Bonito is a true oasis for lovers of nature and water sports. The name "Bonito" couldn't be more appropriate, as the region is blessed with some of the clearest waters and most breathtaking landscapes in Brazil.

The highlight of Bonito is its floats on crystal-clear rivers, where visitors have the unique opportunity to swim among schools of colorful fish and observe underwater life in its natural habitat. Rivers such as the Rio Sucuri, Rio da Prata and Aquário Natural offer this incredible experience, providing moments of tranquillity and contemplation in the midst of unspoiled nature.

4. Manaus, AM

The gateway to the Amazon rainforest, it offers boat trips on the Rio Negro, visits to riverside communities and exploration of the region's fauna and flora.

5. Chapada Diamantina, BA

A paradise of mountains, waterfalls, caves and breathtaking landscapes, perfect for hiking, abseiling and getting in touch with nature.

6. Lençóis Maranhenses, MA

The Lençóis Maranhenses are one of Brazil's most impressive natural wonders, a unique landscape that combines white sand dunes with crystal-clear lagoons, forming a scene of surreal beauty on the northeastern coast.

Located in the state of Maranhão, this vast desert of dunes stretches for more than 150,000 hectares along the coast, creating a visual spectacle that is truly incomparable. During the rainy season, from January to June, the depressions between the dunes fill with rainwater, forming thousands of temporary lagoons that reflect the blue sky and create a breathtaking landscape.

7. Serra da Capivara, PI

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is known for housing one of the largest collections of rock art in the world, as well as a rich biodiversity.

8. Jericoacoara, CE

Jericoacoara, affectionately called "Jeri" by the locals, is one of Brazil's most sought-after and fascinating destinations, located on the northeast coast in the state of Ceará. This small fishing village, once a well-kept secret, has become famous for its stunning landscapes, unspoiled beaches and constant winds that make it a paradise for water sports lovers.

Jericoacoara's main postcard is its famous Sunset Dune, from where visitors can witness one of nature's most breathtaking spectacles: the sun setting over the sand dunes, painting the sky in vibrant shades of orange and red. It's a truly magical and unforgettable experience that attracts people from all over the world to witness Jeri's unique beauty.

9. Gramado and Canela, RS

Enchanting destinations in the Serra Gaucha, famous for their beautiful gardens, European architecture, artisan chocolates and the charm of the winter seasons.

10. Iguaçu National Park, PR

Home to the impressive Iguaçu Falls, one of the largest and most beautiful waterfalls in the world, surrounded by lush Atlantic forest.

11. Pantanal, MT/MS

The largest tropical swamp in the world, it offers a rich diversity of fauna and flora, with unique wildlife watching opportunities.

12. Ilha Grande, RJ

A tropical paradise with unspoiled beaches, trails in the Atlantic Forest, waterfalls and a relaxing atmosphere, ideal for those seeking tranquillity and contact with nature.

13. Brasília, DF

Brasilia, the capital of Brazil, is a unique and fascinating city, known worldwide for its modernist architecture, innovative urban planning and rich political history. Founded in 1960 by then president Juscelino Kubitschek, the city was designed by renowned architect Oscar Niemeyer and urban planner Lúcio Costa, with the aim of representing the vision of a modern and progressive Brazil.

The heart of Brasilia is the Plano Piloto, a central area that houses the main government buildings and emblematic monuments. The National Congress, with its two domes resembling hands holding a globe, is one of the city's most recognizable symbols. Next to it, the Three Powers Square is surrounded by the Planalto Palace, the official residence of the president, and the Supreme Court, among other important government buildings.

14. Ouro Preto, MG

Ouro Preto, one of Brazil's most beautiful historic cities, is a rare gem located in the mountains of Minas Gerais. Founded in the 17th century during the height of the gold rush in colonial Brazil, the city is a veritable baroque treasure, full of sumptuous churches, cobbled streets and preserved colonial mansions that tell the rich and fascinating story of the country's colonial period.

Ouro Preto is known for its spectacular Baroque architecture, which can be admired in its numerous churches and historic buildings. The Church of São Francisco de Assis, designed by Aleijadinho and considered one of the masterpieces of Brazilian Baroque, is one of the city's highlights, with its richly ornamented façade and stunning interior. Other important churches include the Matriz de Nossa Senhora do Pilar, with its golden altar, and the Igreja de São Francisco de Paula, which offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the city.

15. Foz do Iguaçu, PR

In addition to the famous waterfalls, Foz do Iguaçu offers the Bird Park, the Three Borders Landmark and the Itaipu Hydroelectric Power Plant, providing a complete experience for visitors.

16. Porto de Galinhas, PE

A beach destination known for its natural pools with warm, crystal-clear waters, ideal for diving and spotting colorful fish.

17. Salvador, BA

The capital of Bahia is a vibrant cultural center, with its colonial architecture, Pelourinho, popular festivals and rich Bahian cuisine.

18. Praia do Forte, BA

A charming fishing village with white sandy beaches, natural pools, sea turtle preservation projects and delicious local cuisine.

19. São Paulo, SP

São Paulo, the largest city in South America and the economic and cultural heart of Brazil, is a true melting pot of diversity, where different cultures mix to create a vibrant and pulsating metropolis. Known for its vast entertainment offer, world-class gastronomy and a diverse arts scene, São Paulo is a city that never sleeps, where there is always something happening around every corner.

The city skyline is dominated by towering skyscrapers, reflecting its importance as a global financial center. Avenida Paulista, one of the city's main arteries, is the epicenter of urban life, with its designer stores, charming cafés and a contagious energy that attracts locals and visitors alike.

20. Paraty, RJ

A charming colonial town with cobbled streets, historic mansions, waterfalls and paradisiacal islands, it is a popular destination for those seeking peace and quiet and natural beauty.

21. Southern Canyons, RS/SC

Stunning landscapes of canyons, valleys and rivers, such as the Itaimbezinho and Aparados da Serra canyons, offer unique trekking and contemplation experiences.

22. Honey Island, PR

Ilha do Mel is a true natural paradise located off the coast of the state of Paraná in southern Brazil. This enchanting island attracts visitors from all over the world with its unspoiled beaches, lush nature and a tranquil atmosphere that invites relaxation and contemplation.

The island is known for its clear sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, which offer a perfect haven for sun and sea lovers. Beaches such as Praia Grande, Praia do Farol and Praia de Encantadas are some of the most popular with visitors, with their unspoiled natural beauty and picturesque scenery.

One of the main highlights of Ilha do Mel is the Farol das Conchas, a historic lighthouse that offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the island and the surrounding ocean. The climb to the top of the lighthouse is rewarded with spectacular views that provide memorable moments of contemplation and photography.

23. Furnas, MG

Known as the "Sea of Minas", the Furnas region offers exuberant landscapes of lakes, waterfalls and canyons, as well as boat trips and water sports.

24. Serra Gaúcha, RS

A region of mountains, vineyards, Italian and German cuisine, with charming towns such as Gramado, Canela, Bento Gonçalves and Nova Petrópolis.

25. Alter do Chão, PA

Known as the Caribbean of the Amazon, it has beaches with crystal-clear waters and white sands on the banks of the Tapajós River, surrounded by lush rainforest.

26. Morro de São Paulo, BA

An island paradise with stunning beaches, lively parties, nature trails and a relaxed atmosphere, ideal for those looking for fun and contact with nature.

27. Ilhabela, SP

Ilhabela, literally translated as "Beautiful Island", is a jewel of the Costa Verde, located on the northern coast of the state of São Paulo. With a stunning combination of paradisiacal beaches, lush green areas and a relaxed atmosphere, this island enchants visitors from all over the world with its unspoiled natural beauty and tranquil charm.

The island is famous for its more than 40 beaches, each with its own style and personality. From secluded coves to beaches with crystal-clear waters and white sands, Ilhabela offers options for all tastes. Beaches such as Bonete, Castelhanos and Curral are some of the most popular with tourists, while less accessible beaches such as Jabaquara and Fome offer a wilder, more unspoiled atmosphere.

As well as stunning beaches, Ilhabela is a paradise for nature lovers, with more than 80% of its area covered by preserved Atlantic Forest. The island is home to a series of trails that lead to refreshing waterfalls, viewpoints with panoramic views and hidden natural pools. Among the most popular trails are the Bonete Trail, which leads to the paradisiacal Bonete Beach, and the Água Branca Trail, which leads to a beautiful waterfall surrounded by the forest.

28. Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park, GO

An environmental preservation area with breathtaking landscapes, waterfalls, crystal-clear pools and trails that lead to viewpoints with panoramic views.

29. Costa do Sauípe, BA

A complex of beachfront resorts with swimming pools, spas, golf courses and a variety of leisure activities, providing comfort and fun for the whole family.

30. Jalapão, TO

Jalapão is a true hidden gem in the heart of Brazil, located in the state of Tocantins. This cerrado region is known for its stunning landscapes, characterized by golden sand dunes, unique rock formations, crystal-clear rivers and a rich biodiversity that enchants visitors.

One of the highlights of the Jalapão is its impressive sand dunes, which stretch for miles and provide spectacular scenery for travelers. The dunes of the Jalapão take on golden and orange hues at sunset, creating a breathtaking landscape that is perfect for memorable photographs.

In addition to the dunes, the Jalapão is also home to several stunning waterfalls, such as Cachoeira da Formiga and Cachoeira do Roncador, where visitors can cool off in their refreshing waters and connect with nature in its purest state. The waters of the Jalapão are known for their purity and transparency, providing a unique experience of contact with the environment.

These are just a few of the many incredible destinations that Brazil has to offer. Whether you love nature, culture or adventure, there is always something new and surprising to discover in this vast and diverse country. So pack your bags and embark on an unforgettable journey through the charms of Brazil!

See also: 10 cheap places to visit in Fortaleza 

March 30th, 2024