From the majestic Amazon rainforest to the most epic carnival celebration in the world, if it isn’t already a top contender, Brazil is a destination that you should definitely add to your bucket list. There are so many things to see and do in this exciting country that we simply couldn’t cover them all in one go, but here are a few of Brazil’s top attractions to satisfy your wanderlust.
Nature
Sugarloaf Mountain
A slice of nature meets big city, Rio de Janeiro’s Sugarloaf Mountain is one of the area’s most iconic sights. Referred to by locals as Pao de Acucar, Sugarloaf Mountain stands over one thousand feet high and is accessible to visitors by cable car. Once at the top, sightseers will be met with 360-degree views of the colorful city and the magnificent ocean below.
Iguazu Falls
Reaching 270 feet tall and stretching over a whopping 8,000 feet wide, Iguazu Falls is a true force of nature. Accessible from both Argentina and Brazil, the Iguazu Falls are where the Iguazu River meets the rim of the Parana Plateau. Travelers can visit the falls via bus, hiking trail, speedboat or helicopter ride.
Chapada Diamantina
One of Brazil’s most majestic national parks, Chapada Diamantina has no shortage of fabulous hiking trails complete with fantastic views of the surrounding valleys, mountain plateaus and caves. Due to the sheer size of the park (Chapada Diamanita is larger than some European countries) and number of unmarked trails, it is recommended to visit with a local guide who is fluent in Portuguese (this is especially important for those looking to spend the night). Don’t forget to plan ahead as cell service within the park is unreliable so it’s important to be prepared.
Fernando de Noronha
The tip of a submerged volcanic formation, Fernando de Noronha lies 271 miles off Brazil’s northeast coast and is comprised of 21 islands. Considered Brazil’s most picturesque retreat, Fernando de Noronha has no shortage of pristine beaches, deep blue waters and local wildlife. One thing worth noting is that due to the area’s delicate ecosystem, the number of visitors on the island each day is capped at around 450 to 500 so be sure to make arrangements if this little piece of heaven is on your to-do list.
Art and Culture
Christ the Redeemer
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When you think of Rio, chances are this iconic statue comes to mind. Towering high above the bustling city below, Christ the Redeemer has sat a top Corcovado Mountain for more than 90 years. Christ the Redeemer is also a card-holding member of the New7Wonders of the World club as the statue was added to the list in 2007.
Local Architecture
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When it comes to beautiful buildings Brazil has the right idea. There are a number of notable stops architecture-geeks won’t want to miss including: the Catedral Metropolitana, the Itamaraty Palace, Teatro Claudio Santoro and Palacio da Justica, four buildings designed by notable architect Oscar Niemeyer; Templo de Boa Vontade, a white marble pyramidal temple; and Santuario Dom Bosco, a structured covered almost entirely by stained glass.
Museu de Arte, Sao Paulo
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One look at the giant suspended glass box perched upon four bright red beams and it’s easy to see that the Museu de Arte Sao Paulo (MASP) is not your typical museum. Believing that art should follow no layout, visitors can forge their own path through the gallery at MASP as they encounter art from the Chinese Tang Dynasty, ancient Rome, colorful Africa and more.
Drink
Bento Goncalves
Located in southern Brazil, Bento Goncalves is nestled along the country’s Grape and Wine Route. Inspired by the heritage of early Italian immigrants, Bento Goncalves is rich with architecture, cuisine and of course, wine culture. Take a guided tour and learn the ins-and-outs of local wineries while sampling the finest beverages and cheeses.
Bar Original
View this post on InstagramO dia dos pais fica melhor quando sua filha brinda com você no seu bar favorito.
If you’re looking for the perfect beverage to pair with all the delicious food Brazil has to offer look no further than Sao Paulo’s Bar Original. Established in 1996, Bar Original is home to “the perfect traditional draft” a delightful beer crafted by an onsite team who settle for no less than the best.
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