Discover Brazil in 15 Days: A Trip that will Change your Life, Adventure, Beach, Culture and Nature.
Brazil, a vast and diverse country, offers an incredible variety of experiences ranging from the vibrant beaches of Rio de Janeiro to the lush jungles of the Amazon. If you're planning a 15-day trip, here's an itinerary that will allow you to make the most of some of the country's most iconic destinations. Below, we detail our itinerary with practical recommendations for each destination.
Day 1 to 4: Rio de Janeiro - The Samba City
Day 1: The Impressive Christ the Redeemer and Sugar Loaf Mountain
Tomorrow: Start your trip with a visit to the Christ the Redeemerone of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World. Arrive early to avoid the crowds and enjoy the panoramic views of the city.
Afternoon: After lunch, head to Sugarloaf Mountain. Take the cable car up to the top for a breathtaking view. Be sure to arrive before sunset (around 17:30) to see how the sun transforms the landscape into a golden light show.
Night: Dinner at one of the restaurants near Copacabana or Ipanema beach. The nightlife is vibrant, and you can enjoy a relaxed dinner overlooking the sea.
Day 2: Nature and Culture in the Heart of Rio
Morning: Start the day with a hike to Morro dos Hermanos. This is a unique experience that offers a spectacular view of the city. If you don't know the area, consider hiring a guide, as access is through a favela. We contract all tours through Civitatis.
Afternoon: Explore after lunch the Rio de Janeiro Botanical Garden, a quiet place ideal for a relaxing stroll, closes at 17:00. If you prefer something smaller, Parque Lage is a lovely, free option.
Night: Relax at Arpoador, a beach popular with surfers and locals. Here you can enjoy a vibrant atmosphere, watch volleyball games and witness another magnificent Rio sunset.
Day 3: Beaches, Culture and Samba
Morning: Spend the morning exploring the famous Copacabana and Ipanema Beaches. Relax on the sand, enjoy a refreshing coconut water, and experience the carioca lifestyle.
Afternoon: Roda de Samba free tour of African history, important to go on a Monday or Friday, then you stay after the tour in the Roda de Samba at 20:30 it starts to animate a lot is super fun and authentic.
Night: Immerse yourself in the local culture with a Roda de Sambaa Brazilian tradition. Participate in a free tour about African history in Rio and then enjoy live music in one of the most authentic rodas of the city.
Day 4: Favela, Art and Gastronomy
Morning: Join a free tour of the bohemian neighborhood of Santa Teresa, known for its artistic atmosphere and the Selaron stairs. If it is Saturday, the atmosphere will be especially lively.
Afternoon: Take advantage of the afternoon to visit some local stores, especially in Ipanema, the most elegant neighborhood. Don't miss the Farm store, known for its original Brazilian fashion designs, although a bit more expensive.
Evening: Dinner at Belmonte Restaurant, known for its excellent Picanha and cozy atmosphere. If you prefer a traditional churrasco experience, visit Fogo de Chão (if you have time), which is highly recommended.
Day 5 to 6: Iguazu Falls - The Natural Wonder
Day 5: Brazilian Side Waterfalls
Morning: Fly early from Rio to Foz do Iguaçu. Spend the morning exploring the Iguassu Falls from the Brazilian side. Enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views of these magnificent waterfalls.
Afternoon: Take a Macuco Safari boat tour to get close to the falls and feel their power. It is a thrilling experience not to be missed.
Evening: Dinner at Rafain Churrascaria Show, where you can enjoy a delicious churrasco accompanied by a traditional Latin American dance show.
Day 6: Argentine Side Waterfalls
Morning: Cross the border into Argentina and explore the falls from their side. Here, you will walk along trails that lead to the Garganta del Diablo (Devil's Throat), the most impressive point of the falls.
Afternoon: Continue exploring the national park and, if you wish, take another boat or train ride through the jungle.
Night: Return to Foz do Iguaçu for dinner and rest before your next destination.
Day 7 to 9: Amazon - Jungle Adventure
Day 7: Arrival at the Heart of the Amazon
Morning: Fly from Iguazu to Manaus, the gateway to the Amazon. From here, a transfer will take you to your hotel, it is recommended to stay at the ecolodge, we stayed at Dolphin Lodge, your home in the jungle.
Afternoon: After settling in, take a walking tour through the jungle to familiarize yourself with the local flora and fauna. Afterwards, we recommend a tour through the Amazon Rainforest.
Night: Enjoy dinner at the lodge and then participate in a night boat ride on the river, where you will have the opportunity to spot caimans and other nocturnal animals.
Day 8: Explore the Jungle and the Amazon River
Morning: Wake up before dawn for a boat ride and watch the sun rise over the Amazon. It is an unforgettable experience that shows the majesty of the jungle.
Afternoon: Visit the Turtle Sanctuary and a natural rubber factory. Learn about the history and importance of these resources for the region and its inhabitants.
Night: Participate in a piranha fishing excursion, an exciting and unique activity that connects you even more with the life of the Amazon.
Day 9: Farewell to the Jungle
Morning: Enjoy your last morning at Dolphin Lodge with a relaxing walk or just relaxing in the natural pool that connects to the river.
Afternoon: Return to Manaus and fly to your next destination.
Night: Relax at your hotel and get ready for the next stage of your adventure.
Day 10 to 12: Lençóis Maranhenses - Dunes and Lakes
Day 10: Arrival and First Contact
Morning: Fly to Barreirinhas, the gateway to the Lençóis Maranhenses. Settle into your hotel and get ready to explore.
Afternoon: Take a 4×4 excursion through the Lençóis dunes. Observe the impressive freshwater lakes that form between the dunes after the rainy season.
Evening: Dine at one of the local restaurants and enjoy a quiet evening in this unique natural setting.
Day 11: Full Day in Lençóis
Morning: Further explore the dunes and lakes. You can take a guided walk through the dunes, swim in the lakes, and enjoy the spectacular scenery.
Afternoon: Continue your exploration with a boat ride on the Preguiças River, where you will see more of the local flora and fauna.
Evening: Relax in your accommodation or participate in an evening activity organized by your hotel.
Day 12: Farewell to Lençóis
Morning: Make the most of your last hours in this paradise with a morning hike or a dip in the lakes.
Afternoon: Fly to your next destination, Ilha Grande.
Night:Flight back to Rio de Janeiro.
Days 13 to 15: Ilha Grande - Tropical Paradise
Day 13: Arrival at Ilha Grande
To end your trip, you will fly back south to Rio de Janeiro, from where you will take a transfer to Ilha Grande. This destination is known for its pristine beaches, crystal clear waters and relaxed atmosphere.
Morning: Departure from Rio de Janeiro to Angra dos Reis by car or public transportation. From there, take the ferry to Ilha Grande. Upon arrival, check into your accommodation and settle in.
Afternoon: Explore the picturesque village of Vila do Abraão. Stroll through its quiet streets and relax at Abraão Beach, ideal to start enjoying the relaxed atmosphere of the island.
Night: Dinner at Lua e Mar, a restaurant overlooking the sea that offers an excellent selection of fresh seafood, perfect to start your stay in Ilha Grande.
Day 14: Lopes Mendes Beach
Morning: Take a cab boat from Vila do Abraão to Lopes Mendes, one of the most beautiful beaches in Brazil. Enjoy the morning on this white sandy beach with crystal clear waters.
Afternoon: Take advantage of the time in Lopes Mendes to relax or explore the surroundings. You can return to Vila do Abraão by cab boat or walk back along the jungle trail, which offers a unique experience in the middle of nature.
Night: Dinner at Creperia Tropicana, known for its delicious crepes and cozy atmosphere, located near the pier in Vila do Abraão.
Day 15: Pico do Papagaio and Dois Rios Beach
Morning: Wake up early and embark on a hike to Pico do Papagaio. This challenging trail will take you to the top to enjoy a spectacular view of the sunrise over the island and the surrounding sea. The hike takes approximately 3 hours.
Afternoon: Take an excursion or rent a cab boat to go to Dois Rios Beach. This beach is more remote and quiet, and is accessed on foot through a jungle trail (approximately 1 hour walk). Here, you will enjoy the beach almost in solitude, surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of the island. After spending time in Dois Rios, return to Vila do Abraão.
Night:Return to Vila do Abraão to take the ferry back to Angra dos Reis and then a transfer to Rio de Janeiro for your return flight. If you have time, dine at Café do Alto in Rio, which offers delicious Brazilian food in a cozy atmosphere.
Additional Recommendations
Massage and Wellness
- Vila do Abraão Spa: Offers relaxing massages and wellness treatments. Ideal for relaxing after the day's activities.
- Pura Vida Spa: Located near the beach, this spa offers massages overlooking the sea, perfect for total relaxation.
Preparations before traveling to Brazil
Vaccination Center
Recommendation: Get vaccinated against yellow fever and check other necessary vaccinations at the vaccination center in your area.
Mobile SIM Card
Recommendation: Buy a local SIM card at the airport or a telecom store in Brazil to avoid high roaming costs.
Travel Insurance
Recommendation: Purchase a travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and loss of luggage, we contracted Iati's insurance.
Mosquito Repellent
Recommendation: Carry an effective repellent against dengue, zika and chikungunya, such as one containing DEET, we took the Relec extra strong brand.
Must-do Tours and Activities in Rio
1. Tour of Santa Teresa
- Description: This bohemian neighborhood is known for its vibrant and artistic atmosphere. On Saturdays, the streets come alive with cultural events and live music.
- End of Tour: Don't miss the Selarón Stairs, a colorful tile mural that is a masterpiece by artist Jorge Selarón.
- Platforms: Civitatis and Guruwalk often offer guided tours in this neighborhood.
2. Rocinha Favela Tour
- Description: Rocinha is the largest favela in Rio and offers a striking contrast to the more developed areas. The tours will allow you to get to know the local reality and the daily life of its inhabitants.
- Platforms: Civitatis and Guruwalk have options for favela tours that are safe and well organized.
3. Roda de Samba with African History
- Description: Experience an authentic samba roda, especially on Monday and Friday nights. The party gets lively from 8:30pm, and it's a great way to enjoy Brazilian music and culture.
- Location: Look for the Lapa neighborhood, where many samba events are concentrated.
Tips for Girls
1.Visit the Farm Store
- This store is famous for its colorful and original clothing with Brazilian touches. Although it is not cheap, it is ideal for finding unique garments.
2. Bikinis from a street stall in Ipanema
- Street vendors on the beach offer affordable bikinis with typical Brazilian designs.ç
3. Hippy Market
- Located in Ipanema on weekends, it is perfect for shopping for handicrafts, souvenirs and local clothing.
Food
1.Açai
- A Brazilian delicacy. The best açai according to your recommendation is the one at PUC university, but there are also many other excellent places in the city.
2. Picaña
- A typical Brazilian cut of meat. Belmonte restaurant is highly recommended for its excellent quality and ambiance.
3. Churrasco
- Even if you didn't visit Fogo de Chão, it is a well-known chain of churrasco restaurants that offers an authentic experience with a variety of meats.
I hope you find these recommendations useful and that you enjoy your trip to Brazil to the fullest. Have an amazing trip!
