Brazil holidays: Rio, Iguaçu, Bahia and the Amazon
A country larger than the EU, with city beaches in Rio, the world's most dramatic waterfalls, colonial towns in Bahia and rainforest across half a continent. How to plan your first trip to Brazil.
Rio de Janeiro
Photo: Davi Costa / Unsplash
Brazil at a glance
It is Sunday in Rio and the promenade along Copacabana is closed to cars. People cycle, play footvolley and buy coconuts from the kiosks, while Sugarloaf Mountain rises above the bay behind them. Brazil is the largest country in South America and distances are vast. Pick two or three regions and fly between them.
The language is Portuguese, and less English is spoken than many expect. The currency is the Brazilian real. For more of the region, see our Americas travel guide.
Which area suits you?
Rio de Janeiro, for city and beach
Christ the Redeemer on Corcovado, the cable car up Sugarloaf, Copacabana and Ipanema beaches and the hillside district of Santa Teresa. Stay at least four nights.
Iguaçu, for the falls
Around 275 waterfalls on the border with Argentina. The Brazilian side gives you the panorama, the Argentine side takes you right into the spray. One night on each side is ideal.
Salvador and Bahia, for culture and coast
Salvador's old Pelourinho district is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Further south is Trancoso, a small beach town with some of the country's most stylish hotels.
The Amazon and the Pantanal, for wildlife
Trips into the rainforest leave from Manaus, with nights in riverside lodges. The Pantanal is the world's largest wetland and one of the best places in the Americas to see jaguars.
Iguaçu
Photo: Nareeta Martin / Unsplash
When to go
December to March: summer, hot and humid in Rio, with Carnival in February or March. Peak season.
April to June and September to November: comfortable in Rio and Bahia, with lower prices.
July to October: dry season in the Pantanal, the best time for wildlife.
Good to know
There are direct flights from London to Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo.
Keep valuables out of sight, especially on the beach and in city centres at night. Use ride-hailing apps.
See a doctor about vaccinations before you travel, particularly for the Amazon.
Check entry rules before you book.
Where to stay
Copacabana Palace in Rio is one of the world's most famous hotels, Rosewood São Paulo is on the World's 50 Best Hotels list, and Hotel das Cataratas is the only hotel inside the national park at Iguaçu. All three are in our Brazil hotel guide, along with seven more. Combining it with Argentina? See our Argentina guide.
Frequently asked questions about Brazil
How long should I spend in Brazil?
Two weeks covers Rio, Iguaçu and one more region, either Bahia, the Amazon or the Pantanal.
When is the best time to visit Brazil?
It depends where you go. Rio is most comfortable from April to June and September to November, the Pantanal from July to October.
Do UK citizens need a visa for Brazil?
UK visitors do not need a visa for a short holiday, but rules can change. Check before you travel.
Is Brazil safe for tourists?
Most visitors have a trouble-free trip, but petty crime is common in the big cities. Be careful with valuables and follow your hotel's advice.