Brazil is home to some of the world's most pristine beaches, aquamarine life, Christ the Redeemer, Iguazu Falls and other natural wonders that attract over 9 million tourists annually. If you plan on visiting, our Brazil travel guide will help you learn more about:
- Destinations to visit
- Things to do
- Time to visit
We'll also discuss visa requirements and costs below. As the largest country in South America, Brazil rewards a little planning, so this guide covers everything from when to go to what a trip typically costs.
Insider Brazil Travel Guide for Tourists of All Ages
Whether you're planning a honeymoon adventure in Brazil or are celebrating your anniversary, there are plenty of things to see and do in our Brazil travel guide that will help make your plans a little easier.
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7 Top Destinations in Brazil
1. Rio de Janeiro
Rio is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, and you'll know why the moment you set foot in it. Carnival is prime time in the city, but it's also known for its renowned landmarks, dancing, samba and beaches.
2. Manaus
Within the Amazon Rainforest, you'll find over 6 million square kilometers of an ecosystem that houses 10% of all of the known species of the world. You can also stay in one of the many lodges in the forest for an up-close view of the wildlife. Manaus is the main gateway to the Amazon, with most riverboat trips and jungle lodges departing from its port.
3. Iguaçu Falls
Iguaçu Falls stretches nearly 3 kilometres of water and 275 cascades that trickle down the landscape, surrounded by a rainforest. If you have time, go to Devil's Throat in Argentina for the best view of the falls.
4. Lençóis Maranhenses National Park
White sand dunes dot the national park, which has intense bouts of rain during the rainy season that transform the valley into thousands of lagoons. The shimmering pools in the park are best seen between June and September.
5. The Pantanal
Capybaras and giant otters thrive in this tropical wetland, while jaguars can be found patrolling the riverbanks. Large macaws and other birds can be found in the area.
6. Salvador
Pastel buildings and colors that pop are around every corner in Salvador. Be sure to visit the Pelourinho district and to taste the Bahian cuisine. If you prefer a festive atmosphere, consider visiting in June.
7. Fernando de Noronha
Clear waters and adventure await in one of the world's best areas for scuba diving. Turtle and dolphin sightings are a regular occurrence, and you're staying in a volcanic paradise. Visitor numbers are capped to protect the archipelago, so book your spot well in advance.
5 Things To Do In Brazil
Whether you plan to explore nature, sandy beaches or want to enjoy festivals, there's something for every tourist. Below are 5 things to do in Brazil that will make you walk away happy that you vacationed here.
1. Attend Local Festivals
Brazil is a hotspot for some of the world's most popular festivals. If you plan to visit in February, Carnival is a must-experience event and takes place over 40 days. Similar to Mardi Gras, the event sees 2 million people celebrate it annually. Floats, dancers and parties are all reasons to plan your trip during one of the festivals that take place.
2. Paragliding in Rio de Janeiro
Are you an adventure seeker? If so, head to Rio and paraglide off a 1,000-foot cliff. You'll hover over the mountains like never before, catch a birds-eye view of the jungle and glide over some of the most visited beaches in the area.
3. Christ the Redeemer
Completed in 1931, the Christ the Redeemer is one of the tallest statues of Jesus in the world. Standing on a peak of over 2,300 feet high, the statue stands 98 feet tall and 92 feet wide. You can view the statue from anywhere in the city, but you can also take a bus or train to get a closer look. Arrive early in the morning to beat the crowds and the afternoon cloud cover at the summit.
4. Sugarloaf Mountain
Take a cable car to the top of Sugarloaf Mountain, which stands 1,300 feet tall and is an iconic landmark in Rio. Once up top, you can eat at one of the many restaurants and enjoy one of the best views of Rio's coastlines possible.
5. Visit One of the Many Beaches
Brazil's coastline is stunning with massive beaches, soccer and a vibrant atmosphere that you won't find anywhere else. Ipanema Beach in Rio is backdropped by the mountains and is known for attracting a younger crowd.
Baía do Sancho is another must-visit beach known for its perfect turquoise waters, dramatic cliffsides and dolphins.
Jericoacoara Beach is another interesting option with a bohemian vibe and car-free village with dunes that are perfect at sunset.
Seeking a thrill in Brazil? Here are the top honeymoon destinations for thrill-seeking couples.
When is the Best Time To Visit Brazil?
The best time to visit Brazil depends on your itinerary. Most tourists opt to go between the months of September and November, which is when the Brazilian spring is in full swing.
But what if your Brazil itinerary brings you to Rio or São Paulo?
In this case, the months of December through March are the most favorable. You'll pay a premium, adding to your overall trip to Brazil cost, but this is the time of year when New Year's celebrations take place and so does Carnival.
If you plan to go to the rainforest, consider July to October or December to May, depending on what activities you plan on completing.
Want to traverse the rainforest's trails? July is the start of the drier season. River cruises? Choose the months of December through May.
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Brazil remains one of the top destinations in the world. With the right mix of planning and bookings, you'll have an unforgettable vacation that allows you to see all that Rio, and the surrounding cities have to offer.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Does Brazil Require A Visa For US Citizens?
Yes, new visitor visa requirements for U.S. citizens traveling to Brazil have been in place since April 2025. United States citizens must apply for a visa, with the option for qualified applicants to apply via an e-visa. The e-visa costs $80.90 per person, so factor it into your budget and apply several weeks ahead, since processing takes time.
What Is The Best Time to Visit Brazil?
The best time to visit Brazil is September through November, when spring brings pleasant weather, smaller crowds, and better value. For Rio, São Paulo, Carnival, or New Year's, plan for December through March and expect peak-season prices. For the Amazon, July through October suits jungle treks while December through May is best for river cruises.
How Much Does A Trip To Brazil Cost?
A trip to Brazil typically runs about $90 to $150 per day for mid-range travelers, while budget trips can dip to $40 to $60 and luxury stays climb past $300. Peak periods like Carnival and New Year's can multiply hotel prices three to five times, so shoulder-season travel (March to June or September to November) saves noticeably. Brazil's currency is the real (BRL), trading around R$5 to US$1 in 2026; cards are widely accepted in cities, but carry cash for smaller towns and markets.
Is Brazil Safe For Tourists?
Brazil is welcoming to tourists but rewards normal big-city precautions. Keep valuables and electronics out of sight, use ride apps like Uber or 99 instead of hailing taxis, and use ATMs inside banks during the day. Be sure to stick to well-traveled areas after dark, especially around major festivals.
What Are The Top Places To Visit In Brazil?
The top destinations in Brazil are Rio de Janeiro, the Amazon Rainforest near Manaus, and Iguaçu Falls. Nature lovers can add Lençóis Maranhenses National Park and the jaguar-filled Pantanal wetlands. For culture and coastline, visit Salvador's historic center and the diving paradise of Fernando de Noronha.
How Do You Get Around Brazil?
Domestic flights are the most practical way to travel between Brazil's distant regions, with carriers like LATAM, GOL, and Azul usually affordable when booked early. Within cities, ride apps and metro systems in São Paulo and Rio are fast and reliable. In the Amazon, riverboats connect many destinations, including the multi-day Belém–Manaus route.