What I Wish I Knew Before Visiting Brazil

Marta kayaking in the Pantanal. Photo: Marta Marinelli.

Brazil had always been one of those dream destinations that lingered on my travel list, but its immense size kept me hesitating, unsure of where to begin - it’s 28 times larger than my native Italy. Each time I contemplated a trip there, a whirlwind of questions flooded my mind: “Where should I start? How much time do I need to make it worth the journey? Which regions should I prioritise as a first-time visitor? Is it safe?” But as a travel designer accustomed to crafting itineraries and planning adventures, I knew it was time to push aside my own doubts.

When the chance came to visit Brazil on a guided work trip last May, I seized the opportunity. I began my journey with a full immersion in Rio de Janeiro, spending a few days exploring iconic viewpoints such as Sugarloaf Mountain and Christ the Redeemer. I also visited a Samba school and partied in the vibrant neighbourhood of Lapa. From there, I headed south to the historic UNESCO town of Paraty, where I kayaked and sailed to secluded islands in the bay.

Bold, vibrant and biodiverse, Brazil was one of the most compelling countries I’ve visited in a long time

Next, I ventured to the southwestern state of Mato Grosso do Sul for a unique experience— snorkelling in the crystal-clear waters of Rio Prata, surrounded by a myriad of colourful fish. To top it all off, I spent three days in the Pantanal, staying at the exclusive Caiman Lodge, a sanctuary dedicated to conserving this incredible biodiversity hotspot. There, I had the unforgettable opportunity to track and spot the elusive jaguars—truly a once-in-a-lifetime wildlife experience.

What I experienced not only gave me some valuable insights but also made me fall head over heels in love with the country. Bold, vibrant and biodiverse, Brazil was one of the most compelling countries I’ve visited. Here’s everything I wish I knew before visiting Brazil, alongside some top tips for having a brilliant adventure.

Choose one region to explore, rather than trying to see it allDois Rios Beach on Ilha Grande. Photo: Shutterstock.

Brazil is not just a country; it’s like a sprawling continent in its own right. So vast that all the countries of the European Union could comfortably fit within its borders twice. This means you could spend years exploring Brazil and still uncover a new destination with each visit.

One of the biggest mistakes travellers often make is attempting to cram too many regions into their first trip, bouncing between iconic cities like Rio de Janeiro, the heart of the Amazon in Manaus and the breathtaking Iguazu Falls in a whirlwind of flights.

The itinerary I followed bounced around a lot — it was a work trip, so it was designed to allow travel professionals to experience a lot of different places in a short amount of time. I wouldn't recommend doing this for your personal holiday. While it sounds thrilling, domestic travel can consume precious time and lead to unexpected disruptions. It’s also going to increase the carbon footprint of your visit.

The best advice I received during my journey was to embrace Brazil’s size and diversity by breaking it down into manageable regions. Understand that you can’t see it all in one trip—unless you have many weeks to spare or are on an adventurous sabbatical. Instead, choose to immerse yourself in one incredible area at a time.

Where to start ultimately comes down to personal preference, but I found that the region of Rio de Janeiro, the idyllic Costa Verde and Ilha Grande served as the ideal launching pad. They are usually easily accessible with direct international flights, eliminating the need for domestic travel.

This stunning region boasts breathtaking tropical landscapes, incredible hiking opportunities through the Atlantic rainforest, secluded beaches; all while exuding a rich historical charm. Plus, the vibrant nightlife and the energy of each place is simply irresistible.

Brazil is not as expensive as you thinkKayaking in Paraty Bay during the Off-season. Photo: Marta Marinelli

Before my trip, whenever I researched Brazil online, the hefty prices always gave me pause. But here’s the surprising truth: Brazil can be as luxurious or budget-friendly as you make it, depending on your travel choices. Sure, if you start stacking up domestic flights to cover the vast distances between major cities and regions, you might find yourself paying up to £150 ($200) each way. And if you decide to enhance your experience with guided adventures in spectacular places like the Amazon, Pantanal, or Iguazu Falls, be prepared to invest around £115- £230 ($150-300) per person for a day.

But here’s the kicker: prices soar during high season (December to March) and Carnival (February), sometimes doubling compared to the rest of the year. With some thoughtful planning, you can make your dream of exploring Brazil a reality without stretching your budget. By securing international flights early, choosing the right time of year and resisting the urge to jump between too many destinations, you can still have an unforgettable adventure that won’t drain your finances.

You can escape the crowds, even in a country this bigA delightfully uncrowded trail in Ilha Grande. Photo: Getty.

Brazil is the world's sixth-most populous country, and so, I always assumed that visiting meant bracing yourself for big crowds, long lines, and overly touristy spots - but I was pleasantly surprised. While Rio de Janeiro has its lively energy, my experience was far from stressful.

Although metropolises will always feel bustling due to their size and population, there are plenty of ways to escape the crowds. Being part of a guided tour certainly helped, as it allowed me to skip queues and avoid the hassle with pre-arranged logistics like entrance tickets, private transportation, and restaurant bookings.

I also visited in May, during the low season: the periods of April to June and September to November see fewer crowds. They also offer even better weather in many parts of Brazil. With milder temperatures, less humidity and less rain it’s the ideal time for activities like hiking, kayaking and more.  

While sailing and kayaking through Paraty Bay, we discovered secluded, pristine beaches where we were completely alone. Our guide carefully chose islands that were free from other day-trippers, ensuring a serene and truly exclusive experience.

Brazil is home to some of the most diverse and awe-inspiring landscapes on Earth. If you decide to embrace the outdoors or tackle some or hike the paths less travelled, you may well find yourself in total solitude.

Rio de Janeiro is a beating heart beyond the bad reputationThe beautiful city of Rio de Janeiro. Photo: Shutterstock.

Over the years, I kept hearing the same warnings about Rio de Janeiro and Brazil in general: “it’s dangerous,” “you’ll get mugged,” “don’t go without a local." Most of these claims weren’t even based on personal experiences but on rumours that had spread far and wide. Naturally, I couldn’t help feel nervous before my trip, though knowing I’d have a local guide by my side helped ease my concerns.

Once I set foot outside my hotel and started exploring, those worries melted away. I was instantly swept up by the city's beauty and quickly found out Rio isn't just a place, it’s an experience. The dramatic views, like Christ the Redeemer towering above the lush Corcovado Mountains, were more breathtaking than any photograph could capture. Watching the sunset from Sugarloaf Mountain? Unforgettable. The beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema felt like they were straight out of a movie - full of  energy, with locals playing football, sunbathing, sipping cocktails or dancing to live samba music.

Everywhere I went, I felt a constant connection to nature that gave the city a pulse.

I believe Rio must draw its energy from its surroundings—towering mountains, the ocean, and rainforests. Everywhere I went, I felt a constant connection to nature that gave the city a pulse. Whether I was hiking a jungle trail, gazing at the city’s skyline from above, or simply relaxing on the beach, Rio felt alive. In the end, following some precautions and common sense, all my fears faded. What I discovered was a city unlike any other - a place brimming with a spirit that is truly unique. Even if, like myself, you are not a fan of travelling to big cities and prefer the wild outdoors, Rio cannot be missed.

Brazil is truly a foodie paradiseMoqueca, a 'hug in a bowl'. Photo: Shutterstock.

As a self-proclaimed foodie, my travel plans usually revolve around seeking out the most delicious culinary experiences and hidden gems a destination has to offer. On this trip to Brazil, I decided to take a step back and let the adventure unfold without the usual planning, but from the moment I arrived, my taste buds were in for a treat. I was completely blown away by the quality and variety of Brazilian food. Having explored other South American countries, I can confidently say that Brazilian cuisine has taken the top spot as my absolute favourite in the region.

I had sampled a few Brazilian dishes back home in Portugal, but nothing could compare to the explosion of authentic flavours I encountered here. It was a culinary revelation! The country’s food scene is as rich and colourful as its culture, with each dish clearly revealing the indigenous influences, African traditions, and Portuguese heritage.

The country’s food scene is as rich and colourful as its culture

One of the first delights I experienced was churrasco, the famous Brazilian barbecue. I tried it twice in Europe before my trip, but nothing could prepare me for this mouth-watering experience. As I ventured further south, I stumbled upon moqueca, a fragrant fish stew that felt like a warm hug in a bowl. Made with creamy coconut milk, ripe tomatoes, onions, and vibrant peppers, it was not just a feast for the palate, but also a visual delight.

Of course, I couldn’t leave without indulging in pão de queijo—some irresistible cheesy bread rolls that are everywhere in Brazil. Crispy on the outside and wonderfully chewy on the inside, they made the perfect snack to enjoy alongside a refreshing caipirinha. By the end of my trip, my group and I had put on a few extra kilos, but honestly, isn’t that the best sign of a remarkable food journey?

Carnival is a way of life hereMaking friends at the Grande Rio Samba School. Photo: Marta Marinelli.

When you think of Brazil, one of the first things that probably comes to mind is the spectacular Carnival - an explosion of colour, rhythm, and joy that draws millions each February. My trip was happening in May so I knew I wouldn’t have the chance to witness the famous parades and dazzling costumes first hand. But what I discovered was even more surprising: Rio's celebratory spirit isn’t confined to just a few days; it’s a year-round affair.

As I wandered through the city, it became clear that the locals embrace life with an unmatched spontaneity. The streets pulse with excitement, where impromptu jams fill the air with the sound of samba and everyone is invited to join in.

One of my most cherished moments was stepping into a historic samba bar in Rio’s Lapa, neighbourhood, where I was swept away by the hypnotic beats of tambourines, cuícas, and chocalhos. Another highlight was visiting the Grande Rio Samba School. Stepping backstage, I witnessed the meticulous process of creating a parade, from designing elaborate allegories to crafting stunning costumes. It was awe-inspiring to see the dedication of the countless professionals working tirelessly for a whole year to bring this colourful spectacle to life at the Marquês de Sapucaí Sambadrome every February.

I also discovered that the samba schools are about so much more than just parades. They are vital social organisations that nurture cultural heritage and foster community development. Through outreach programs, these schools uplift local neighbourhoods and contribute to initiatives like the Pimpolhos da Grande Rio, ensuring that the joy of Carnival continues to thrive for future generations.

Brazilians know how to welcome a travellerMusicians playing samba in Rio. Photo: Marta Marinelli.

I have a few Brazilian friends back home, and I’m fluent in Portuguese, so I was somewhat familiar with Brazilian culture. I knew I was in for a wonderfully positive experience, but even so, I was taken aback by the extent of everyone’s friendliness. During my trip, I encountered numerous incredible individuals, including dedicated local naturalist guides in the Pantanal, friendly hotel staff in Paraty, talented singers and dancers in Rio, cheerful street vendors by Ipanema beach and more.

However, Brazil is also a nation of contrasts, where stunning beauty and vibrant culture exist alongside significant economic inequality and poverty. Despite these challenges, the spirit of the Brazilian people shines through, embodying hope, adaptability, and spontaneity. The sense of community and solidarity is palpable, and I found their lively culture to be a powerful testament to their resilience.

The warmth, passion, and joy radiating from the Brazilian people creates an uplifting energy. This is one of the main reasons that inspired me to return as soon as I can, perhaps venturing further afield this time. Hiking in the Chapada Diamantina and the Serra da Capivara, exploring the Amazon and snorkelling in the Fernando de Noronha archipelago are definitely next in my bucket list, but as I learnt, it will take more than a trip to see all this.

Inspired? Check out our range of adventure holidays in Brazil now!