Ultimate Tourist Guide to Visit Brazil: Best Brazil Tour

Planning the best Brazil tour can be both exciting and overwhelming. With its vast size, diverse landscapes, and rich cultural traditions, Brazil offers travelers experiences that range from relaxing on idyllic beaches to exploring the mysteries of the Amazon rainforest. As a journalist and traveler who has spent years exploring the country, I’ve gathered insights and practical advice to help international visitors make the most of their journey.

When considering the best Brazil tour, it’s important to go beyond the postcard images of Rio de Janeiro. Brazil is a country of contrasts, where every region reveals a unique story. From the urban pulse of São Paulo to the colonial charm of Bahia or Minas Gerais, the powerful waterfalls of Paraná to the dunes of Maranhão, travelers will discover destinations that reflect the true soul of South America’s largest country.

This ultimate guide is designed for those looking for a stress-free and informed adventure. Here you’ll find must-visit places, insider tips, and essential information on how to get around, when to go, and what to expect in terms of culture, food, and etiquette. Whether you dream of dancing at Carnival, taking a river cruise in the Amazon, or riding a train through the Atlantic rainforest, the best Brazil tour starts with good planning.

How to plan the best Brazil tour

Must-Visit Places in Brazil

Rio de Janeiro

Known as the “Marvelous City,” Rio combines stunning natural beauty with vibrant culture. Visit Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf Mountain, and Copacabana Beach. Don’t miss a football match at Maracanã Stadium.

São Paulo

Brazil’s largest city is a cosmopolitan hub. When in São Paulo, explore museums like MASP or Museu do Ipiranga, indulge in world-class gastronomy, and feel the energy of Avenida Paulista.

Paraná

Home to the breathtaking Iguaçu Falls, one of the natural wonders of the world. The national park is a must for eco-tourism enthusiasts.

Another unforgettable attraction is the Serra Verde Express train, which runs from Curitiba to Morretes. This scenic railway crosses lush Atlantic rainforest, deep valleys, and historic bridges, making it one of the most beautiful train rides in the world.

Maranhão

Famous for Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, with its surreal white sand dunes and seasonal lagoons. A photographer’s paradise.

Ceará

Fortaleza offers urban beaches, while Jericoacoara is a rustic paradise with endless sand dunes and vibrant sunsets.

Santa Catarina

From Florianópolis’ beaches to the mountains of Serra Catarinense, this southern state mixes adventure, surf, and winter charm.

Rio Grande do Sul

Brazil’s southernmost state blends European heritage with natural beauty. Explore the charming towns of Gramado and Canela, famous for alpine-style architecture, chocolate shops, and winter festivals. Don’t miss the Serra Gaúcha wine region, where vineyards produce some of the country’s best sparkling wines. For nature lovers, Aparados da Serra National Park offers dramatic canyons and unforgettable hiking trails.

Must-Have Experiences

• Celebrate the world’s biggest Carnival in Rio or Salvador.
• Watch the sunset over the dunes in Lençóis Maranhenses, Maranhão.
• Swim with colorful fish in Bonito’s crystal-clear rivers, Mato Grosso do Sul.
• Explore Iguazu Falls on both the Brazilian and Argentine sides.
• Learn to dance samba or forró with locals.
• Surf in Florianópolis, one of South America’s best surf destinations.
• Visit a traditional coffee farm in Minas Gerais and taste freshly brewed coffee.
• Experience the magic of Festa Junina, a traditional June festival with food, music, and bonfires.
• Watch a football match in a legendary stadium like Maracanã or Morumbi.
• Sail around Ilha Grande or Fernando de Noronha, paradisiacal islands with turquoise waters.
• Ride the Serra Verde Express train from Curitiba to Morretes, a breathtaking journey through the Atlantic rainforest and one of the most scenic railways in the world.

Must-Try Things to Do

• Taste traditional feijoada, acarajé, and pão de queijo.
• Visit local street markets and try tropical fruits like açaí, cupuaçu, and caju.
• Take a samba class in Rio or a forró night in the Northeast.
• Explore colonial towns like Ouro Preto or Paraty.

Hidden Gems in Brazil

• Chapada Diamantina in Bahia for hiking and waterfalls.
• Bonito in Mato Grosso do Sul, famous for crystal-clear rivers.
• Vale dos Vinhedos in Rio Grande do Sul, a Brazilian wine route.
• Alter do Chão in Pará, known as the “Caribbean of the Amazon.”

Insider Guide

Best Time to Visit

Brazil is a year-round destination, but December to March is summer, ideal for beaches and enjoying the Carnival.

How to Reach Brazil

Most international flights arrive in São Paulo (GRU) or Rio de Janeiro (GIG). Domestic flights connect major cities.

Visa Information

Depending on your nationality, you may need a tourist visa or electronic authorization. Always check the latest requirements before booking.

Getting Around

Brazil is vast—domestic flights save time. Buses are reliable for intercity travel, while metro systems in Rio and São Paulo are efficient for urban areas.

Language

Portuguese is the official language. English is spoken in major tourist spots, but if you go to the small cities, learning a few basic phrases in Portuguese goes a long way.

Currency

The Brazilian Real (BRL) is the official currency. Credit cards are widely accepted, but keep cash for small purchases.

Etiquette

Brazilians are warm and friendly. Greetings often include handshakes or cheek kisses. Tipping is usually 10%, already added to the bill.

Food Tips

Street food is part of the culture—try tapioca, pastel, and brigadeiro. Tap water is not recommended for drinking; bottled water is widely available.

Connectivity

Wi-Fi is common in hotels and cafes. Buying a local SIM card is the best option for travelers needing reliable mobile data.

Pro Tip

To truly enjoy Brazil, don’t rush. Each region offers unique experiences, so focus on a few areas rather than trying to see it all in one trip. This will make your journey more meaningful and less exhausting.