Brazil is one of the top most visited countries in South America. Being the fifth most largest country in the world, there is a lot of ground to cover when visiting. Only have one week? We have condensed the top destinations within Brazil that you should check out!
Day 1: Rio de Janeiro
Your flight will most likely land in Rio de Janeiro, and for good reason. You can check out the Christ the Redeemer statue, Selaron Stairs, and then check out Copacabana beach. You can rent a chair and umbrella to relax at the end of the day. The Selaron Stairs have 215 mosaic steps in all kinds of bright colors, made by Jorge Selaron in 1990. Fans of his work sent him tiles from all over the world to use in his masterpiece.
Day 2: Rio de Janeiro
Sugarloaf mountain is your next stop. You can climb the mountain or take a cable car. Do not touch the monkeys you may see, they carry a lot of diseases and are an invasive species. Sugarloaf mountain is made of granite and quartz. The original cable car was built in 1912 before being renovated in 1972 and 2008. Adventurers looking to climb the mountain can take one of over 270 routes between one and ten pitches long. However you decide to visit Sugarloaf mountain, you can be sure to have fantastic views of the surrounding landscapes.
The Botanical Garden was found by a Portuguese king in the 1800s. There are over 900 species of palm trees and plenty of flora to explore over 2-3 hours. Check out the carnivorous plants and painted cast-iron fountain when you have a chance.
Day 3: Foz do Iguacu
A short 2 hour flight from Rio de Janeiro, this is the town on the way to Iguazu Falls. The 1.7 mile long waterfall is a spectacular site and right on the border of Brazil and Argentina. Another activity in the area is Parque das Aves, a bird sanctuary. Atlantic rainforest birds fill the sanctuary and you can see unique birds that aren’t in any zoos in the United States. Tickets are about $15/person and additional attractions like feeding birds are extra.
Day 4: Bonito
Catch a flight to Bonito to see one the best outdoor enthusiast destinations in Brazil. Snorkel in the Prata River and take a waterfall tour in Boca da Onca. Snorkeling tours usually begin with a short hike in the forest before entering the water. Snorkelers can see over fifty species of tropical fish in the crystal clear waters. If you look above water, you can spot some exotic birds and monkeys.
Boca da Onca Waterfall Hiking Adventure starts with a three mile hike into the forest, swims in multiple refreshing pools of water, and lunch. Visitors must be at least six to seven years old, and drones are not allowed in most areas.
Day 5: Bonito
Rappel down into Anhumas Abyss, a cave hiding amazing rock formations and a lake. It is the size of a football field, so don’t worry if you tend to become claustrophobic. Afterwards you can birdwatch in Buraco das Araras. Take time to see over 120 species of birds, and some unusual wildlife. Armadillos, anteaters, and coatimundis also call Buraco das Araras home. The tours are usually about a half mile of walking and observing from different spots.
Day 6: Bonito
Rio Formoso Ecological Park has a plethora of activities to enjoy on your last day in Brazil. Horseback riding, river tubing, ziplining, ropes course, and more are available. Don’t forget to bring your GoPro because you will want to remember this trip for a lifetime! Travelers remember the food being amazing with a mix of meat, eggs, veggies, and other delicacies.
When traveling to Brazil, consider getting a yellow fever and typhoid vaccine to protect against diseases. Also bring mosquito repellent if you are going to enjoy a lot of outdoor activities. Stay safe, stay healthy and your trip will go amazing! See a travel health specialist at Away Clinic’s newest Scottsdale location.
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