The perfect two-week holiday in Brazil
Brazil stands as perhaps the most captivating nation on the globe. This charm is elusive, woven from its landscapes, culture, mythology, and history. It is a nation of vast beauty and diversity, spanning a tapestry of varied peoples and environments. Brazil is eternal in its truths: expansive beaches, a lush, green wilderness, and a vast network of rivers reaching across the land.
The country is renowned for its contributions to music, art, fashion, cuisine, and vibrant carnival festivities, a testament to its rich cultural variety. Brazil is a melting pot on a national scale, home to individuals from every corner of the world.
Brazil's connection with Portugal is historic, highlighted during the relocation of the Portuguese monarchy to Brazil in 1807. If you missed the celebrations of Independence Day in 2022, fear not; there is always something to celebrate, especially in Salvador, the party-loving historical capital. Planning a vacation in such a colossal country can be daunting—where does one start to experience such richness?
Exploring Brazil's natural wonders is essential. Despite challenges like illegal logging—now decreasing with Lula's presidency—Brazil remains a hotspot for biodiversity. Home to over 1,800 bird species, 600 mammals, nearly 400 reptiles, and 70,000 insects, including about 25,000 unique species, it’s a paradise for nature enthusiasts. Brazil harbors a tenth of the world’s forests within its borders.
For an unforgettable experience, the Pantanal is a top choice. This wetland is open and accessible, making wildlife observation a delight. Visitors might see jaguars, anteaters, giant otters, tapirs, and even the elusive maned wolf—Brazil’s own Big Five. The true beauty of the Pantanal is its holistic nature spectacle: vast flocks taking flight, caimans sunning on riverbanks, colorful birds darting through trees, all set against the backdrop of ranchers herding cattle.
Choosing among Brazil's numerous cities and towns is simpler than it seems. Rio de Janeiro, though no longer the capital, is unmatched in visual splendor among American cities. Its unique geography, vibrant neighborhoods, famous beaches, and cultural venues make it a must-visit. The city pulses with life, offering museums, dining, nightlife, and welcoming bars for all.
Beaches are an integral part of the Brazilian experience—places of culture, recreation, and relaxation. This journey promises numerous opportunities to enjoy these sandy retreats.
After exploring a stunning city, encountering abundant wildlife, and relaxing on various beaches, one might think the rest of the trip mere embellishment. Yet, the itinerary continues with visits to cities known for modernist architecture and African cultural influences, a charming old town, a pristine archipelago, and numerous museums and galleries. Efficient use of Brazil’s domestic flights ensures minimal travel time and maximum enjoyment.
Rio de Janeiro - Days 1 & 2
Copacabana and Christ the Redeemer
Arriving in Rio is a thrilling experience right from the airport transfer, as the iconic Sugar Loaf Mountain comes into view and you're driven along the scenic coastal road. Settle into the luxurious Copacabana Palace and spend your first day exploring the lively beachfront, perhaps enjoying a refreshing beer at a local kiosk.
Familiarize yourself with the local beaches: the extensive and winding Copacabana is immediately accessible, with Ipanema and Leblon nearby, offering upscale vibes. Smaller beaches like Arpoador and Leme are interspersed among the larger ones, bustling with activity from sports enthusiasts to relaxed sunbathers. Don’t miss Botafogo for its sunset views and a casual drink at Bar Urca.
Today's highlight should be a visit to either the Christ the Redeemer statue via the quaint hill train or the Sugar Loaf via cable-car. Plan a relaxed evening with a caipirinha and a light meal at Pérgula, the hotel’s excellent restaurant specializing in South American cuisine.
Tram rides and coffee stops
Begin your next day with a visit to the Museu de Arte do Rio, then treat yourself to a coffee at the grand Confeitaria Colombo, taking time to explore the recently revitalized bay area, a legacy of the 2016 Olympics. Check out the Museum of Tomorrow, a futuristic structure by Santiago Calatrava focusing on sustainable living.
Stroll through the bohemian quarters of Santa Teresa, characterized by its cobblestone streets reminiscent of old Rio. If it's warm, the tram offers a breezy ride up with a leisurely walk back down. Enjoy a Minas-style meal at the quaint Bar do Mineiro. In the afternoon, revisit the sight you missed on your first day and dine at either Lasai or Oteque, both top-rated in Rio, offering innovative Brazilian cuisine. If up for it, end your night with dancing at the Scenarium nightclub.
Pantanal - Days 3, 4 & 5
The world’s largest wetlands
Fly directly from Rio to Cuiabá (2h 50m), followed by a 2.5-3 hour drive to the Pantanal, the planet's most extensive wetland system. The journey along the Transpantaneira Highway is dotted with stops for birdwatching and observing wildlife such as caimans and colorful birds.
Settle into the Jaguar Suite at the Southwild Flotel, a floating hotel optimized for animal observation. With three days here, there's ample opportunity to spot jaguars, caimans, and capybaras. Your first evening might include sightings of jaguars on the prowl.
Boat rides, big cats, and birds
Spend your days exploring the Pantanal’s rich ecosystems by motor-launch, kayak, or punt. The area is teeming with wildlife, including giant otters, howler monkeys, and a plethora of bird species like the jabiru stork and flamingo. Consider a nocturnal tour to observe more birds, tree frogs, snakes, and young caimans along the riverbanks.
Brasilia - Day 6
Big-city feeling
Catch a morning flight from Cuiabá to Brasilia (1h 40m). Though primarily a practical stop, Brasilia offers a unique glimpse into utopian Modernism and the retro-futuristic visions of mid-20th-century urban planning. Stay at the Brasilia Palace, integral to the city’s initial design.
Spend your day touring monumental structures by Lúcio Costa and Oscar Niemeyer, such as the Itamaraty Palace and Metropolitan Cathedral. The cityscape is interspersed with expansive parks designed by Roberto Burle Marx. For panoramic views, ascend the TV Tower.
Despite its 1960 establishment, Brasilia exudes a mature city ambiance, hosting numerous embassies and offering diverse dining options. Sample local steaks at Toro Parrilla Sul or enjoy Peruvian specialties at Taypa.
Salvador - Days 7 & 8
World Heritage and festivals
Embark on a late morning journey to Salvador, arriving in roughly two hours. Settle into the chic Hotel Fasano, a brief stroll from the historic Pelourinho district. This area, marked by its painful past as a slave trading post, now stands as a Unesco World Heritage Site. Salvador thrives as a hub for the Afro-Brazilian culture, hosting numerous festivities, including its well-known carnival and the unique Candomblé spiritual events. Coordinate with your hotel's concierge for an afternoon exploration of significant landmarks like the Museu Afro-Brasileiro, Mercado Modelo, the Lacerda Elevator, and the principal old churches and houses.
The local Bahian cuisine, a blend of African and American influences, is celebrated for its rich use of dende oil, with staples such as moqueca baiana, caruru, and vatapa featuring seafood and spices.
A day on the beach
Allocate a day to unwind at one of Salvador's prominent local beaches. Catch a cab to Praia Porto da Barra, a popular spot from the 1960s Tropicalia movement. A scenic walk leads you to the Farol da Barra, a site known for its lighthouse and appealing surf breaks. You'll find several budget-friendly eateries along the beachfront, offering delightful seafood stew for lunch.
Olinda -Days 9 & 10
Recife in brief
Fly into Recife, a flight of about an hour and twenty minutes. This expansive city, the heart of Pernambuco, has a rich history tied to Brazilwood and sugar trade, once the capital of Dutch-ruled New Holland in the 17th century. Tour the historic Recife Antigo before heading to Olinda. Situated just north of Recife, Olinda is a Unesco-listed town established by the Portuguese in the 16th century, with its 18th-century architecture beautifully preserved. Stay at the charming Pousada 7 Colinas for a couple of nights.
The Unesco-listed city
Olinda offers a more quaint and walkable environment than any contemporary Brazilian city, dotted with baroque architecture, lush gardens, and quaint chapels. It's a favored spot for local artists and a great place for dining on terraces with views. Enjoy memorable meals at Oficina do Sabor, serving specialties like codfish cakes and lobster in seafood broths.
Fernando de Noronha - Days 11, 12, 13 & 14
An island retreat
Conclude your vacation with a flight to Fernando de Noronha, about an hour and forty minutes from Recife. This pristine archipelago, located 220 miles off Brazil's northeast coast, offers three days of relaxation and natural beauty. Stay at the luxurious Pousada Maravilha, conveniently near the airport and Praia do Sueste. The island, mostly a National Marine Park, limits visitors to preserve its serene environment. Despite the restrictions, it remains a destination for the affluent, with exquisite dining and bar options. All 16 beaches, especially Baia do Sancho, offer stunning views, marine life sightings, and top-tier snorkeling opportunities.
Homeward bound
Return home via Recife and Lisbon, taking the fastest route back to the UK.
When to go
Consider the regional climates; Salvador's subtropical weather, Brasilia's constant warmth, and Rio's year-round suitability for beach activities make them ideal nearly any time. The Pantanal's dry season is perfect for bird watching, while for Fernando de Noronha, the latter part of the year promises dry, sunny days. If visiting during carnival season, book early due to the popularity of these events.
