Final Up to date on Might 19, 2023 by Nellie Huang
Dive into Brazil’s vibrant seashores, wild jungles and islands with this all-encompassing Brazil itinerary that may present you the perfect of Brazil in 2 weeks!
Brazil is the biggest nation in South America, encompassing round half of the continent’s land space and inhabitants. Unfold out over a big landmass, the nation packs in very numerous landscapes and experiences: from the impenetrable rainforests of the Amazon to the wetlands of Pantanal and sultry seashores of Rio.
Brazil can be dwelling to the world’s greatest Carnival celebrations. Time your journey to coincide with the Rio Carnival like I did, and also you’ll be experiencing Brazil at its finest. I certain didn’t need to depart Brazil after Carnival ended! 2 weeks in Brazil are barely sufficient time to scrape the floor of what the huge nation has to supply, however for these with restricted time, this Brazil itinerary packs in the perfect elements of the nation.
2 Weeks in Brazil Itinerary
How one can Get to Brazil
U.S., EU, Canada, Australia residents don’t want a visa to journey Brazil and may keep as much as 90 days. There are direct flights to Rio de Janeiro from New York JFK Airport on LATAM for below $1000 return. Most main airports within the US fly to Rio de Janeiro and flights are normally round US$800-1200 return. You too can discover flights from most elements of Europe and UK to Rio de Janeiro for round 600 euros return.
How one can Get Round Brazil
Brazil is a large nation and most of it’s impenetrable forests — which makes flying an inevitable a part of touring right here, significantly if 2 weeks in Brazil (or much less!) are all you’ve bought. Fortunately airfares for home flights in Brazil are inexpensive. For instance, a flight from Rio de Janeiro to Foz do Iguaçu is US$100 every manner.
Trains are virtually non-existent in Brazil, as is in the remainder of South America. Buses are fairly snug in Brazil however distances are lengthy (a minimum of 5 hours to get to any vacation spot). A number of the hottest bus corporations embody Cometa, 1001 and Kaissara. Comets has firstclass seats that rival these of airways (with seats that flip into beds.) Extra particulars on bus journey in Brazil right here.
Is it Protected to Journey Brazil?
Security in Brazil is a priority for a lot of, rightfully so. Cities similar to Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, for instance, have areas that may be extra liable to crime. Petty theft, together with pickpocketing and bag snatching, can happen in crowded vacationer areas, public transportation, and widespread points of interest. Whereas nearly all of vacationers have protected and fulfilling experiences in Brazil, incidents of violent crime, together with armed theft and assault, can happen.
It’s necessary to train warning, significantly in areas with greater crime charges, and keep away from displaying wealth or valuables that will appeal to consideration. Following common sense security precautions, similar to touring in teams, sticking to well-lit and populated areas, and staying knowledgeable about native security recommendation, can contribute to a safer journey expertise.
Journey Brazil Independently or on Guided Tour?
Touring Brazil independently will be difficult, particularly because the nation could be very large and distances between cities are massive. The nation doesn’t have nice tourism infrastructure in place, making it powerful to discover the extra distant and rural areas like the Pantanal. For those who solely have 2 weeks in Brazil, then it’s finest to e book a guided tour, that manner you get to see extra inside a short while.
I traveled with G Adventures on the Wonders of Brazil journey. Our native information was wonderful and led us on an thrilling journey in Brazil. For those who just like the itinerary beneath and would like to journey with a gaggle, try the journey particulars. G Adventures is a Canadian journey tour operator I’ve labored with many instances and may extremely advocate!
When to Journey Brazil
The perfect time to go to Rio is between December and March, when the climate is heat and sunny sufficient to hit the seashores. The town’s seductive samba beat and unbelievable panoramic views final year-round, however arrive in February to expertise Carnival.
Brazil is an all yr spherical vacation spot made up of a number of climatic extremes, none of that are extreme sufficient to keep away from touring to any a part of the nation. Throughout Brazil the warmest months are November to March: summer time within the southern hemisphere. The Pantanal’s driest months are between April and October, however like within the Amazon, its wetter months provide distinct wildlife recognizing alternatives and experiences.
I traveled Brazil in February to rejoice Carnival in Rio and it was SO a lot enjoyable being a part of the world’s greatest celebration! Easter (April) is one other good time to journey Brazil, when the cobbled streets of Ouro Preto in Minas Gerais are coated in carpets of intricate patterns of flowers and different pure supplies. Lodge costs are normally booked up throughout these peak journey durations, so make sure you e book your resort manner upfront.
Journey Insurance coverage in Brazil
I at all times advocate vacationers to purchase journey insurance coverage, whether or not you’re touring for a yr or per week. It’s significantly necessary have journey insurance coverage that covers COVID-19 should you’re touring through the pandemic.
Security Wing is the most well-liked journey insurance coverage firm for COVID19-coverage. I take advantage of their Nomad Insurance coverage plan, which covers COVID-19 as every other sickness so long as it was not contracted earlier than your protection begin date. Confer with my journey insurance coverage information for extra particulars.
Value of Journey in Brazil
Brazil makes use of the Brazilian Actual (BRL). The present trade price is round USD1 to 4.99 BRL. As in comparison with the opposite international locations in South America, Brazil is comparatively costly with costs similar to Argentina. A meal in a median diner is round 40 BRL and a nicer meal for 2 in a restaurant is normally round 200 BRL. It’s usually fairly low-cost to drink in Brazil; you’ll be able to normally discover a caipirinha for simply 3.50 BRL.
What to Eat in Brazil
Earlier than my journey to Brazil, all I’d heard of Brazilian meals was their succulent meat and the rodizio (all-you-can-eat Brazilian steakhouse).
Listed below are a number of the most conventional Brazilian meals and drinks:
- Churrasco: Brazil has at all times fought with Argentina for the title of South America’s barbecue champion. In Brazil, it’s a must to go to a rodizio a minimum of as soon as: waiters will probably be serving up thick items of barbecued meat from skewers. You simply want to inform them when to cease!
- Feijoada: If Brazil had a nationwide dish, this could be it. It’s a pot of black beans cooked with chunks of meat, though the actually conventional feijoadas are made with pig’s ears, trotters and different elements. It’s served with fried kale combined with bacon bits, rice, farofa and a slice of orange to taste.
- Açaí: This renown super-food originated in Brazil, discovered particularly in coastal cities. Attempt it plain as sorbet, or ask for banana, strawberry or granola. Açaí will also be discovered as a smoothie, a juice, in powder and even added right into a predominant meal utilizing its uncooked, berry kind.
- Coxinhas: This hearty snack is a heap of shredded rooster wrapped up in a gooey, heat dough earlier than being battered and fried.
- Pão de Queijo: That is a lot extra than simply cheese bread. Made with cassava flour so it’s completely gluten-free, these little puffs are crispy on the skin, squidgy on the within and stuffed with tacky taste.
- Cachaça: Courting again to the 1500s, this Brazilian liquor is produced from fermented sugarcane juice, and is finest generally known as the fiery kick in caipirinhas – Brazil’s nationwide cocktail.
Brazil Itinerary Day 1-4: Rio de Janeiro
Most vacationers, together with myself, fly into Rio de Janeiro. Whereas it’s now not the capital of Brazil (which moved to Brasilia in 1960), Rio de Janeiro is without doubt one of the most vibrant and culturally-rich cities on the planet. It affords just about all the pieces you may need in a single place – superior views, white-sand bays, and buzzing nightlife.
By day, head to Copacabana Seashore and Ipanema Seashore for the solar and surf or view Brazil’s historic relics and wonderful artwork at Museu Histórico Nacional. Search for from virtually any road in Rio and also you’ll see Christ the Redeemer, the open-armed statue of Jesus Christ that sits atop Corcovado Mountain. You may attain this peak and luxuriate in an unforgettable view of all the metropolis by taking a narrow-gauge prepare. By evening, you’ll discover the year-round celebration on the samba golf equipment in Lapa, an eclectic bohemian district and nightlife centre.
Don’t miss the Escadaria Selarón, 125 meters of steps coated in brilliant tile which have been remodeled right into a world-known piece of artwork. Subsequent to the steps is the Santa Teresa neighborhood, a famend gathering place for intellectuals, lecturers, artists and politician. For those who’re fascinated with visiting favelas (slums), I like to recommend going to the Santa Marta favela in Botafogo, which appeared in Michael Jackson’s MTV.
- Beneficial nights: At the least 3 nights (however it’s also possible to depart Rio for the tip of your journey)
- READ: My expertise celebrating Carnival in Rio
The place to Keep in Rio de Janeiro
There are many motels with improbable views and rooftop swimming swimming pools overlooking the seashore in Copacabana, Ipanema and Leblon. Lots of them are surprisingly inexpensive should you’re not touring through the holidays. I can not emphasise sufficient how necessary it’s to e book your resort in Rio de Janeiro manner forward of time, as they get booked up (and costs get jacked up) at peak journey season.
Luxurious: Rio Othon Palace
Rio Othon Palace is true on Copacabana seashore, with spectacular views of the bay and Sugarloaf Mountain. It’s additionally bought an exquisite rooftop pool and a preferred restaurant and bar on its thirtieth flooring. Test the costs right here.
Mid Vary: Orla Copacabana Lodge
A less expensive resort in the identical location is Orla Copacabana Lodge, additionally overlooking the seashore and steps from eating places, bars and points of interest. There’s a metro station simply 900m away and costs are as little as $59 for a double room. Test the newest costs.
Price range: Rio Seashore Hostel
For a price range choice, try Rio Seashore Hostel which is clear, funky and really inexpensive. It’s situated within the Botafogo district and round an 18-minute stroll from the seashore. It’s excellent for solo vacationers who wish to join with different vacationers. Guide right here.
Brazil Itinerary Days 4-6: Paraty & Ilha Grande
Journey by bus from Rio de Janeiro to Paraty, a colonial city with improbable structure and coastal vibes. Laid-back Paraty offers you the possibility to decelerate and calm down, after partying too exhausting in Rio de Janeiro. The city has loads of bohemian markets, contemporary seafood eating places and loads of attraction. Learn this information to Paraty.
If that doesn’t sound tranquil sufficient – its cobbled streets are closed to automobiles, and this widespread vacation retreat has lured artists and writers from Brazil and worldwide. Wander across the historic centre, go to Santa Rita church and its surrounding homes, chill on the seashore in Barra do Corumbê or kayak the Jabaquara Mangroves. You too can take a ship cruise across the bay or a day journey to Trindade.
In your second day, make sure you make a day journey to Ilha Grande. The island stays largely undeveloped because it was closed by the Brazilian authorities for greater than a century to free motion or settlement as a result of it housed jail. The island is now a preferred vacationer vacation spot, recognized for its scenic magnificence, unspoilt tropical seashores, luxuriant vegetation and rugged panorama. Right here’s
The place to Keep in Paraty
Luxurious: Pousada do Principe
high-end place to remain is Pousada do Principe, a colonial-style heritage resort that’s actually charming and historic on the similar time. It’s situated within the Paraty centro (outdated city) and only a few minutes’ stroll from the seashore. Test for costs right here.
Mid Vary: Pousada Villa del Sol
I stayed at Pousada Villa del Sol, the most well-liked lodging choice in Paraty. It’s well-priced and effectively situated, simply 800m from the Praia do Pontal seashore however a bit of farther from the outdated city. It has a relaxed, informal seashore resort really feel, with a swimming pool. Test the newest costs right here.
Brazil Itinerary Days 6-9: São Paulo & Foz do Iguaçu
From Paraty, it’s a 4-hour bus journey to the São Paulo Airport. You probably have greater than 2 weeks in Brazil, I recommend allocating a couple of additional days for São Paulo. Sadly I didn’t have sufficient time to discover town. São Paulo has the worst popularity of all of the cities in Brazil amongst foreigners, as a result of degree of crime, air pollution, local weather and overcrowding, however I do know some pals who truly prefer it.
After a fast flight, you’ll arrive on the spectacular Iguassu Falls, lauded as one of many pure wonders of the world. Go to the Brazilian facet of the falls and meander alongside its boardwalks to get the perfect panoramic view. You’ll most likely see a lot of coatis (an endemic South American animal that resembles the raccoon) on the way in which. Put together to get moist as you’ll be able to stroll all the way in which up near the large falls.
There’s a superb chook park on the town, Parque das Aves, that I like to recommend visiting for an opportunity to see Brazil’s wealthy birdlife. I additionally took the possibility to jump over to the Argentinian facet of the falls for a day journey — keep in mind to carry your passport for the border crossing! You’ll discover that the views are very completely different and effectively price seeing on each side. You may even take a jet boat to go proper below the falls within the water on the Argentinian facet.
The place to Keep at Foz do Iguaçu
Luxurious: Nadai Consolation Lodge
Nadai Consolation Lodge is an inexpensive, four-star resort with large spacious rooms, all-white zen design and a very good spa (nice to calm down in after a complete day of exploring the falls). There’s additionally an exquisite pool and massive out of doors lounge space. Test the newest costs right here.
Mid Vary: Foz Plaza Lodge
I stayed at Foz Plaza Lodge , a contemporary three-star resort proper within the metropolis centre. It’s low-cost, comparatively snug and has location. For those who’re in search of one thing fuss-free, then that is it. Guide right here.
Brazil Itinerary Days 9-12: Bonito
Rise early because it’s an early flight to Campo Grande, then a 5-hour automobile journey to Bonito. This charming small city is an ecotourism hub within the Mato Grosso do Sul state. The world surrounding Bonito is understood for crystal-clear rivers such because the Rio da Prata, a snorkeling vacation spot abounding with fish.
The Abismo Anhumas is a large, stalactite-covered cavern that provides abseiling and diving in an underground lake. Flocks of macaws nest within the deep, ocher-colored despair Buraco das Araras. It’s extremely beneficial to make your reservations upfront even when touring within the low interval. This snorkeling journey within the Rio da Prata has wonderful critiques.
- Beneficial nights: 3 nights (1 evening will probably be spent on the bus)
- Foz do Iguaçu to Bonito: Fly to Campo Grande, which is then 5 hours by bus. Guide your flight right here!
The place to Keep in Bonito
Luxurious: Zagaia Eco Resort
Zagaia Eco Resort is without doubt one of the finest resorts in Bonito — it’s unfold out over a giant inexperienced house and is improbable for households with youngsters. It options 3 swimming swimming pools and a couple of eating places serving Brazilian specialities. Test for the newest costs right here.
Mid Vary: Pousada Arte de Natureza
I stayed at Pousada Arte de Natureza and completely beloved it. It’s bought a really pure picket design, with a seashore resort really feel. There are two gorgeous out of doors swimming pools with three synthetic waterfalls, an out of doors spa and a bar. It’s additionally in Bonito metropolis centre, with quick access to eating places. Test the newest costs right here.
Price range: Che Lagarto Hostel
A less expensive choice is the Che Lagarto Hostel, that appears good and clear. It’s bought a swimming pool and inside strolling distance from Bonito centre. Rooms are very low-cost, at round $25 per evening. Test the costs right here.
Brazil Itinerary Days 12-14: Pantanal
From Bonito, I headed straight into the Pantanal, the world’s largest seasonal wetland, and Brazil’s wildlife capital. Prepare for the spotlight of this Brazil itinerary! Nearly 700 species of birds will be discovered right here, together with 80 mammals – however you’ll have to have a information to level out capybaras, monkeys and hyacinth macaws.
Porto Jofre can be the perfect place on the planet to see jaguars. I sadly didn’t see any jaguar, and would advocate staying extra nights and deeper to affix a Pantanal jaguar safari. Learn this information to jaguar recognizing in Pantanal from my pals Dave and Becca who did a self-driving safari and noticed a couple of jaguars!
The place to Keep within the Pantanal
Poconé: Pouso Alegre Lodge
We stayed at Pouso Alegre Lodge and extremely advocate them. The rooms had been easy however snug and there was loads of actions on the lodge. The fee per evening was $190 per evening for two individuals sharing, full board.
Porto Jofre: Pousada Porto Jofre Puma lodge
Dave and Becca stayed at Pousada Porto Jofre Puma Lodge. The fee for the keep there’s $390 per evening for two individuals sharing. That included a full day river safari for each full day spent in Porto Jofre and full board meals.
Brazil Itinerary Day 14: Rio de Janeiro
From the Pantanal, it’s a couple of hours’ drive to Campo Grande Airport the place you’ll be able to fly again to Rio de Janeiro. I recommend leaving a day or two in Rio de Janeiro on the finish of your journey to ensure you arrive again in time on your flight dwelling.
I hope that you just discover this 2-week Brazil itinerary helpful, let me know within the feedback beneath!
Disclaimer: This submit incorporates affiliate hyperlinks i.e. I make a small fee whenever you buy one thing by my hyperlinks, at NO additional price to you. Thanks on your assist!
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