10 Compelling Reasons to Travel to Brazil

The 2016 Olympic Games put the spotlight on Rio de Janeiro and gave the world an extra dose of exposure to Brazil. If watching the games put a trip to Brazil on your bucket list, read on for the best reasons to visit this bustling country.

Brazilian Beaches

Ipanema Beach in Rio de Janeiro. Fernando Maia/Riotur

With more than 2,000 beautiful beaches that stretch along Brazil’s shoreline and over 1,000 islands dotting the Atlantic Ocean, visiting a beach is essential during your stay. While many beaches are bustling with activity, others are pristine ecological sanctuaries waiting to be explored.

Natural Wonders

view of Igazu falls from the top
Chris VR / iBestTravel

The Amazon River and Rainforest, along with the majestic Iguaçu Falls, represent just a few of Brazil’s stunning natural attractions. This country boasts 62 National Parks and countless conservation areas, showcasing its rich biodiversity.

Brazil has established multiple records in wildlife numbers and diversity, highlighting the need for ecotourism and responsible travel initiatives. Consequently, these efforts allow more travelers to explore Brazil in a sustainable manner, benefitting local communities and preserving its natural beauty.

Cities & Towns

Praça da Liberdade, in Belo Horizonte
Praça da Liberdade, in Belo Horizonte. The area is home to several newly developed cultural attractions.

Despite the controversies surrounding the 2016 Olympics, the games served as a catalyst for positive changes in the host city and beyond. Many cities leveraged the influx of visitors by introducing new cultural attractions, hotels, restaurants, and much more.

Brazilian People & Culture

Football fans in Brazil shirts inside National Mane Garrincha Stadium for World Cup match, Brasilia, Federal District, Brazil
Ian Trower/Getty Images

Brazilian culture arises from a rich tapestry woven from diverse ethnic and cultural heritages. This extraordinary mix informs various Brazilian customs, celebrations, and traditions, such as bossa nova, capoeira, and the iconic yellow soccer jersey.

Additionally, strong cultural resilience persists among the indigenous peoples and African-Brazilians, who continue to reaffirm their identities through their rich cultural heritage. Therefore, it is safe to say that the people who have shaped Brazil are generally welcoming to international tourists.

Celebrations and Events

Ongoing Festas Juninas 2014 in Recife
Ongoing Festas Juninas 2014 in Recife, a World Cup host city.

Indeed, Carnival is world-renowned. However, Brazil also boasts a diverse array of celebrations, with smaller cities gradually gaining recognition alongside the famed festivity leaders of Rio, Salvador, Recife, and Olinda.

Moreover, international travelers have found Reveillon, the Brazilian New Year, to be just as entertaining as Carnival. Here is just a glimpse of the various festivals and events throughout Brazil:

  • Semana Santa – the Brazilian Holy Week
  • Festas Juninas
  • Festa do Divino
  • St. Vito Festival

Brazilian Cuisine

Brazilian fish stew
CJIdone/Getty Images

Brazilian barbecue has rightfully earned popularity across upscale restaurants worldwide. Imagine open fire pits tended by gaúchos (South American cowboys) in the fields of Rio Grande do Sul, delivering an authentic taste of Brazilian barbecue.

However, Brazilian cuisine encompasses much more than just barbecue. Talented chefs, inspired by the nation’s diverse native ingredients and regional traditions, are creating entirely new culinary experiences. Therefore, engaging in one of Brazil’s vibrant food festivals or dining at an authentic restaurant can be an excellent way to discover this diversity.

Travel-Friendly Weather

Búzios, in Rio de Janeiro State
Búzios, in Rio de Janeiro State, a town with a great chance of sunshine.

In Brazil, timing is crucial for maximizing your chances of finding a fantastic sunny spot. Both fall and winter travel present great opportunities to experience bright sunrises, warm days, and cool evenings perfect for enjoying cozy nights.

Brazil Hotels and Pousadas

view of the South Eastern Bay and of a bungalow at the Pousada Maravilha, Pernambuco, Brazil
Alex Robinson/Getty Images

Selecting the perfect place to stay can be challenging due to the overwhelming variety of exceptional options available.

Some accommodations are destinations in their own right, such as rainforest lodges and charming pousadas, offering unique experiences for travelers.

Tourism is a Priority to Brazil

Selaron stairs in Rio de Janeiro
Jean-Pierre Lescourret/Getty Images

The Brazilian government has prioritized tourism by investing in infrastructure improvements, resulting in enhanced roads, job creation, and an elevated community standard of living.

A Gateway to South America

Machu Picchu, Peru
Machu Picchu, Peru. Craig Hastings/Getty Images

Brazil is surrounded by amazing neighbors, making it an ideal hub for exploring some of the most remarkable attractions in South America, particularly in Argentina, Peru, and beyond.

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