Family Travel in Brazil: Best Activities for Kids
A sunset cable car ride, a thundering waterfall, or exploring the world’s most important ecosystem by riverboat are just a handful of the lasting memories waiting to be made on a family vacation in Brazil.
Pepper that in with treats like pão de queijo (cheese bread) and brigadeiro (chocolate truffle), and you’ve got a trip that’s perfect for kids of all ages. Here’s what you need to know about traveling in Brazil with children.
Is Brazil Good for Kids?
Brazil is a fascinating country rich in natural beauty and ecological interest, making it a perfect destination for budding naturalists. If you have children who enjoy discussing wildlife, they will relish a trip to Brazil’s wild regions.
However, if you’re seeking a relaxing vacation, Brazil offers plenty of options with thrilling activities to engage restless teenagers.
Brazil is known for its welcoming culture towards families. Children are easily accommodated in restaurants and public spaces. You will find no trouble rolling a stroller down the boulevard in Rio and breastfeed discretely while enjoying your day out.
Playgrounds and entertainment for kids are prevalent, not only in parks but also in supermarkets. Brazil even celebrates Children’s Day, a mid-April holiday with fun fairs and celebrations across the country.
Nevertheless, all travelers should keep safety in mind while exploring Brazil. Petty theft is the most common risk, so it’s advisable to leave expensive jewelry at home and keep personal electronics stored safely away.
Which Region in Brazil is Best for Kids?
Brazil’s vastness means that few Brazilians have explored the entire coastline or ventured deep into the jungle and savannas, hence it’s unnecessary to try to see everything in one visit.
Beachside cities like Rio de Janeiro and Florianopolis offer wonderful experiences for families. For teenagers, consider a visit to São Paulo’s Beco do Batman, a street art haven embedded in a vibrant, artsy neighborhood.
Regardless of your idea of adventure—be it trekking through lush jungle or snorkeling in colorful reefs—Brazil boasts abundant natural beauty and diverse climates.
Beyond the dense rainforests, you can find mountains of sand in northeastern states such as Ceará and Rio Grande do Norte, often located near stunning family-friendly beach resorts.
Best Things to Do in Brazil with Babies and Toddlers
Visit the Puppet Museum in Olinda
Near Recife, Olinda is a historic city recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its larger-than-life puppet processions during Carnaval. Babies and toddlers can witness these captivating creations up close at the Casa dos Bonecos Gigantes de Olinda, displaying charming puppets year-round.
Stay at a Family-Friendly Beach Resort
Escape to the ocean with a long vacation enjoying the sand and sun. Staying at an all-inclusive resort is an excellent way to travel comfortably with babies or toddlers.
Look Out for Capybaras
Native to Brazil, capybaras are the world’s largest rodents, often spotted in public parks, especially near the water. While they appear adorable, caution is necessary to ensure children observe them from a safe distance.
Best Things to Do in Brazil with Kids
Take the Cable Car to Sugarloaf Mountain in Rio de Janeiro
Experience breathtaking views of Rio from Sugarloaf Mountain. The cable car ride is divided into two segments, first stopping at Morro da Urca, featuring shops and eateries, before ascending to the summit for a stunning 360-degree view.
Walk the Planks of the Waterfall at Foz do Iguaçu
Located at the meeting point of three countries, Foz do Iguaçu is home to the world’s largest waterfall system, comprising nearly 300 waterfalls. Secure boardwalks provide breathtaking views from the Brazilian side of the falls.
Snorkel off the Beaches of Porto de Galinhas
For a marvelous snorkeling experience, Porto de Galinhas, located an hour south of Recife, offers vibrant coral reefs and accessible natural pools right from the shore.
Best Things to Do in Brazil with Tweens and Teenagers
Travel on a Riverboat Ride in the Amazon
A journey into the Amazon presents an opportunity to explore the world’s largest rainforest. Embark on a riverboat to experience its biodiversity up close.
Go for a Dune Buggy Ride in Nordeste
Adventurous tweens and teens will love exploring Brazil’s dunes via dune buggy. Popular locations include Natal and Jericoacoara, where scenic swimming holes await.
Take a Kitesurfing Lesson in Ceará
The northeastern region of Brazil, with its winds and dunes, offers exciting kitesurfing opportunities, making it a perfect spot for older kids seeking high-flying adventures.
Planning Tips for Family Travel in Brazil
Renting a car is one of the easiest ways to explore Brazil, especially when visiting multiple towns along the coast. However, if you’re budget-conscious, many comfortable and safe long-distance bus services cater to families.
Brazilians are known for their friendliness towards foreigners, and children are widely welcomed in restaurants. Buffets and churrasco-style eateries often have child-friendly pricing, making them ideal for families.
Health-wise, sticking to major cities keeps illness risks low, but ensuring the family is updated on vaccinations is always wise, particularly when visiting forested or wetland areas like the Amazon.
