Curator’s statement
Brazil was the first country where I understood what a society looks like when people are full of energy. It is not just colorful and cute like Puerto Rico—the people here embrace life. It’s filled with a wonder of the world and wonder of nature, beauty no matter where you look, and, in my opinion, the best food in South America. I CANNOT wait to go back one day, filling my trip with festivals, nature, and dupes for other countries. You simply just can’t go wrong here!
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Things to do in Brazil
Christ the Redeemer: This is a wonder of the world and truly glorious! It does take time, and it is crowded at almost all times, so no need to think waking up early is the hack here, you can sleep in.
Portuguese Library: The most gorgeous library in the world in my eyes. This, personally, beats the one in Vienna and just everything about it is so charming, it feels like you stepped into a book yourself just by standing here.
Sugarloaf Mountain: Has amazing panoramic views the city and multiple spots to try acai.
Escadaria Selaron: A staircase definitely worth stopping by. So unique with colors and little hints about other places in the world. Also a great location to be in if shopping for souvenirs.
Catedral Metropolitana de São Sebastião do Rio de Janeiro: Truly the most unique church you could possibly imagine.
Copacabana Beach: The liveliest beach EVER. Yes, it’s crowded but who cares because it’s a crowd filled with pure smiles! There are markets/stalls open late here, always some type of music, and sometimes amazing fireworks!
Foz De Iguacu: The most dramatic waterfalls I have ever experienced and the views/angle opportunities are never-ending, with access to the Argentinian side as well! Best way to get here is through Sao Paulo and make sure to hire a guide!
Places to eat & drink in Brazil
Foco de chao: This restaurant is available globally in select locations but originated from Brazil, so obviously it was a must here and did not disappoint
Alloro al Miramar (on-site in Windsor Miramar Hotel): Best pumpkin risotto!
Churrascaria Palace: All-you-can-eat, great choice.
Aprazivel: Great restaurant, always recommended by multiple tour guides.
By the viewpoint on Sugarloaf Mountain, there a few stands for acai bowls and Brigederos—great desert!
Need to know
People mostly speak Portuguese here, so make sure to download the language on Google Translate here.
Bottled water only.
See my Costa Rica guide for anti-mosquito info.
Pay attention to the best seasons to visit here, weather varies! For example, January was almost at 100 degrees here!
Carnival festival happens in Rio in February.
Hire a guide for the Amazon Rain Forest (prep for either shaman/tribal knowledge and/or wildlife depending on what you are doing and for how long).
A beautiful national park in Brazil that isn’t well-known but is so worth it and can serve as an alternative to some of the islands in hard-to-get countries is called Lencois Maranhenses National Park.
US citizens need a visa to enter Brazil.
Travel Advisor
Leanna Vinokur
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Brazil page.