Travel to Brazil

The largest country in South America, Brazil has a reputation for its stunning beaches, glorious rainforests and bustling cities. Go diving in fish-filled waters, take a trip to roaring waterfalls and admire the colorful houses that line the streets of its charming colonial towns.

The Europeans first reached Brazilian shores in the 16th century and the country later became part of the once-vast Portuguese Empire. Although the country has been independent since 1822, legacies from its old colonial rulers, including the Portuguese language, still remain. 

One of the most popular cities in Brazil is Rio de Janeiro. To see the city from above, ride a cable car to the Pao de Acucar peak. Soccer is a much-loved national pastime. Experience the exhilarating atmosphere of a match at the Maracana Stadium in the north of Rio.

On the east coast of Brazil sits the city of Salvador de Bahia, the former capital of Portugal’s New World colony. View Afro-Brazilian art, observe traditional dances in the plazas and sample local specialties such as bean and shrimp fritters. The capital of Brazil today is Brasília, a planned city with many buildings designed by Oscar Niemeyer, one of the key architects in modern architecture.

If you’ve come to Brazil for beautiful beaches, you’ve come to the right place. Copacabana is home to the world-famous Copacabana Beach where children kick around soccer balls, beach vendors hawk their wares and cariocas (Rio residents) work on their tans. For somewhere a little quieter, take a boat to Ilha Grande, which is ringed with secluded palm tree-lined beaches and crisscrossed by forest trails.

Brazil’s high season, when the weather is hot and festivals abound, lasts from December to March. For lower prices, book a trip between May and August.

Rio de Janeiro’s Aeroporto Galeao serves as an international gateway for travelers. Choose domestic flights to get around the country quickly or save money and ride long-haul bus routes. Bus services are reliable, frequent and usually comfortable.

Whether you go for February’s Carnival festivities in Rio or escape to the Amazonian wilds, a trip to Brazil is always an adventure.