My perfect Brazil 2-week itinerary

By Brazil specialist Ana

One of our Brazil specialists creates her ideal two-week trip taking in Rio, Iguaçu Falls and, of course, the beach...

It’s a cliché, but Brazil really does have a bit of everything. It’s the world’s fifth largest country and is beloved for its beaches, Carnival, Amazon rainforest, and at its heart, its people. So, it’s really not easy to come up with the perfect trip — or rather, to come up with only one perfect trip.

Over a two-to-three-week trip, you could easily take 16 flights around the country: out to Iguaçu Falls, to the Pantanal, up to the Amazon and the northeast. And, I drove myself down the coast from Recife before finally exploring Bahia and some of its beaches.

But despite everything I saw, my ideal trip would be a simpler, relaxing one around the south of the country — it has so much diversity to offer without the need for costly and time-consuming flights. It boasts one of the world’s most exciting cities, plus rainforest, idyllic beaches, historic architecture, and the spectacle of Iguaçu Falls. In a word, perfect.

Days 1-3: Iguaçu Falls

After a direct flight to Iguaçu, I’d head straight to the Belmond Das Cataratas, the only hotel in Iguaçu National Park and a walk away from some of the best waterfall viewing platforms.

From here I’d cross the border into Argentina, to stand just at the point the water begins its tremendous descent. The following morning is for strolling the walkways on the Brazilian side to absorb the spectacle of the 275 separate falls. This allows plenty of time to take the Macuco Safari boat ride at the bottom of the falls — prepare to get soaked.

Days 4-6: Paraty

Next, I’d fly back to São Paulo, then drive along the coast to Paraty, a town I’ve got a real soft spot for. It’s the ideal place to relax and wander cobbled streets amid historic buildings. After dinner at Banana da Terra or Quintal das Letras, I’d go to one of the many laid-back bars to listen to some live bossa nova.

The next day, I’d visit a cachaça distillery to sate my curiosity about Brazil’s most celebrated spirit, with doubtless a sample or two, before browsing the town’s artisan shops.

My final day here would be spent almost entirely in the water, swimming and snorkelling (and, alright, yes, a bit of sunbathing too) with a languid trip on a schooner. It sails to some of the most eye-catching and serene beaches and islands in Paraty Bay, all surrounded by dense rainforest.

Days 7-10: Relax in Rio

Following my drive back to Rio, I would head to the Miramar by Windsor Copacabana, right on Copacabana Beach. It has a rooftop pool with wonderful views over the long stretch of sand — and it’s relatively affordable.

While in Rio I’d have to visit the icon that is Cristo Redentor (Christ the Redeemer). This ties in well with a visit to Santa Teresa — its cluster of brightly painted but slightly decaying buildings and little bohemian bars and restaurants makes it a lovely place to walk around. In the evening, I would head to the vibrant Lapa district to hear live music and see how the locals party.

Over the next few days, I’d hire a bike and cycle along the beaches. If my stay coincides with a Sunday, I’d browse Ipanema’s arts and crafts market, then indulge in my go-to view of Rio: a striking sunset from the top of Sugar Loaf Mountain (take the cable car in the afternoon).

Before leaving Rio, I’d take a trip to Tijuca Forest. Ever decreasing in size as the city continues to expand, the world’s largest urban national park is a haven of waterfalls, caves, mountainous terrain and wildlife — and just 30 to 40 minutes from Copacabana.

Finally, I’d relax on Ipanema Beach at Posto 9 and watch the area’s beautiful people.

Days 11-13: Back to the beach

For a laid-back finale, I’d head to my preferred beach destination in Brazil, the fishing-village-turned-chic-resort town of Búzios. The main reasons to visit are to relax on the golden-sand beaches (avoiding busy weekends), swim in the clear, green sea, and dive.

I would stay at Casas Brancas Boutique Hotel & Spa, a stylish pousada set on a hillside overlooking the islet-studded bay waters. I would try to fight the urge to spend all day, every day lounging by the pool or on a daybed, and instead head out island-hopping by schooner, or make the most of the hotel’s yoga and t’ai chi classes.

Day 14: Sad goodbyes

On my final day, it’s a road journey back to Rio de Janeiro for my night flight back to the USA. Unless I can think of a convincing excuse to extend my trip that little bit longer…