Why I love Brazil

“The music, the beaches, the wildlife, and most importantly the people: it's hard not to fall for Brazil. Rio de Janeiro is one of my favorite cities: I never tire of watching the sunset from Arpoador, chasing the samba scene in Lapa or wandering the village-like streets of Santa Teresa. But Rio is just the beginning, and in Brazil there really is no end. I have fond memories spotting wildlife (especially in the...” Read More

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Regis St Louis
Writer

Top experiences in Brazil

Recent articles

Ten beach-free things to do in Rio de Janeiro

One of the world’s most captivating cities, Rio de Janeiro has indisputably beautiful beaches and fantastic nightlife. But after taking in the comely sands of Ipanema, ticking off key attractions like Sugar Loaf and Christ the Redeemer and dancing the night away in Lapa, what else does Rio have to offer?

Quite a lot, as a matter of fact. Rio de Janeiro has such a wealth of historical and natural treasures that you could spend weeks happily occupied without setting foot on the beaches of the Zona Sul. Picturesque islands in the bay, magnificent tropical gardens and former palaces full of dark secrets – these are just a few of Rio’s intriguing, lesser-known places.
Regis St. Louis
Lonely Planet Writer

From caipirinhas to carne seca: discover the flavors of Rio de Janeiro's markets

Rio de Janeiro's markets (known in Portuguese as feiras or mercados) provide some of the best, and most delicious, ways to connect with the city's vibrant local culture.

Delve into these buzzing dens of produce and banter to discover exotic fruits, uniquely Brazilian street food snacks and more substantial dishes that reflect Rio's intriguing mix of Portuguese, African and indigenous influences.
Tom Le Mesurier
Lonely Planet Writer

Eat like a carioca: Rio's best local food

Food is a treasured part of carioca (resident of Rio de Janeiro) life. With roots in African, Amerindian and European epicurean traditions, the tastes of the Marvelous City range from meat-centric churrascarias, hearty feijoadas, vibrant street food and upscale, gourmet selections – all best accompanied by Brazil's national cocktail, the tangy caipirinha.

No visit to Rio de Janeiro is complete without a true churrascaria (traditional barbecue restaurant) experience, which is generally offered as a set menu that includes a selection of side dishes and salads – and, of course, the perfectly char-grilled, all-you-can-eat meat.
Teresa Geer
Lonely Planet Writer
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Travel guides

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Brazil adventures

$1569 Small group tours

Northern Brazil Express

This quick nine-day tour of northern Brazil hits loads of highlights north of Rio. Samba dance and sip caipirinhas beside the turquoise waters of the Atlantic coast, discover the gorgeous old buildings of Salvador, Bahia, and find out once and for all why Rio's so famous for its nightlife. The tour maximizes time by including two short flights to skip long, overnight bus rides. Hop on board and see Brazil north of Rio.
$424.99 Small group tours

4-Day Iguassu Falls Tour

Visit Iguassu Falls on this multi-day tour! On this 4-day tour, see the famous falls from both the Brazilian and Argentinian sides with your professional, English-speaking guide. You’ll also visit the Itaipu Dam, an important energy provider for several South American countries. This easy and convenient tour allows you to get all your planning done ahead of time so you can enjoy a hassle-free trip to Iguassu Falls!
$3799 Small group tours

Andes, Iguassu & Beyond

This tour is designed for anyone looking for the most incredible natural and cultural highlights of southern South America. Spend 18 days exploring the cultures of Chile and Argentina with the Andes as your perfectly picturesque backdrop. Get active in the adventure-sport-lover's paradise of Pucon, Chile and then stand in the mist of majestic Iguassu Falls, before moving on to find out once and for all why Rio de Janeiro is the cultural icon it's become. Enjoy free time to explore this amazing city. Don't leave any adventure-stone unturned; do it all.
$9779 Nature & wildlife

The Great South American Journey–Quito to Fortaleza

How do you possibly sum up an epic 73-day adventure throughout the entire continent of South America? From a unique homestay in the Amazon, to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu, glittering Buenos Aires nightlife, the majesty of Iguassu Falls, and the mystery of Nazca, this massive tour is the perfect introduction to a whole (and incredibly exciting) portion of the world. Take this South America journey with a group of similar adventurers to yourself and be reminded why you started travelling in the first place.
$339.99 Small group tours

3-Day Tour of Iguassu Falls National Park

Book a 3-day tour of Iguassu Falls and see the falls from both the Brazilian and Argentinian sides. Explore the national park and explore the beautiful waterfalls with your local English-speaking guide. On this relaxing getaway, admire the stunning sights of Brazil and enjoy two nights’ accommodation in a comfortable 3-star hotel with round-trip airport transfer included.
$134.99 Small group tours

Iguassu Falls All-Inclusive Overnight Tour of the Brazilian Side and Itaipu Dam

If you only plan on spending one night in Foz do Iguaçu, this is the tour for you! Book this overnight Iguassu Falls tour and see the Brazilian side of the falls in two days. Guided tours of the falls and Itaipu Dam, hotel accommodation and round-trip airport transfers are all included – all you need to bring is your sense of adventure!
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