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 array of experiences, from the vibrant beaches of Rio de Janeiro to the lush rainforests of the Amazon. If you’re planning a 15-day trip, we’ve put together an itinerary that will allow you to make the most of some of the country’s most iconic destinations. Below, we detail our route with practical recommendations for each destination.
Days 1 to 4: Rio de Janeiro – The City of Samba
Day 1: The Impressive Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf Mountain
Tomorrow: Start your journey with a visit to Christ the RedeemerOne of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World. Arrive early to avoid the crowds and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
Late: After lunch, head to Sugarloaf. Take the cable car to the top for a breathtaking view. Be sure to arrive before sunset (around 5:30 pm) to see the sun transform the landscape into a spectacle of golden light.
Evening: Have dinner at one of the restaurants near Copacabana or Ipanema beaches. The nightlife is vibrant, and you can enjoy a relaxed dinner with ocean views.
Day 2: Nature and Culture in the Heart of Rio
Tomorrow: Start the day with a walk to Morro dos Hermanos. This is a unique experience that offers a spectacular view of the city. If you’re unfamiliar with the area, consider hiring a guide, as access is through a favela. We hired one. all the tour through Civitatis.
Late: Explore after eating Botanical garden Rio de Janeiro, a quiet place ideal for a relaxing stroll, closes at 5:00 PM. If you prefer something smaller, the Lage Park It’s a lovely and free option.
Evening: Relax in HarpoonA popular beach among surfers and locals. Here you can enjoy a vibrant atmosphere, watch footvolley matches, and witness another magnificent Rio sunset.
Day 3: Beaches, Culture and Samba
Tomorrow: Spend the morning exploring the famous Copacabana and Ipanema beaches. Relax on the sand, enjoy a refreshing coconut water, and experience the Carioca lifestyle.
Late: Free African history tour of the Roda de Samba (samba circle). It’s important to go on a Monday or Friday. After the tour, stay at the Roda de Samba until 8:30 pm; it gets really lively, it’s super fun and authentic.
Evening: Immerse yourself in the local culture with a Roda de SambaA Brazilian tradition. Take a free tour about African history in Rio and then enjoy live music at one of the city’s most authentic rodas.
Day 4: Favela, Art and Gastronomy
Tomorrow: Join a free tour of the bohemian neighborhood of Saint Teresa Known for its artistic atmosphere and the Selaron Steps. If it’s a Saturday, the atmosphere will be especially lively.
Late: Take advantage of the afternoon to visit some local shops, especially in Ipanema, the most elegant neighborhood. Don’t miss the shop Farm, known for its original Brazilian fashion designs, although a bit more expensive.
Evening: Dinner at the Belmonte Restaurant known for its excellent Picanha and a welcoming atmosphere. If you prefer a traditional barbecue experience, visit Fogo de Chao (if you have time), which is highly recommended
Days 5-6: Iguazu Falls – The Natural Wonder
Day 5: Falls from the Brazilian Side
Tomorrow: Fly early from Rio to Foz do Iguaçu. Spend the morning exploring the Iguazu Falls From the Brazilian side. Enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views of these magnificent waterfalls.
Late: Take a boat tour Macuco Safari to get up close to the falls and feel their power. It’s an exciting experience you can’t miss.
Evening: Dinner at Rafain Churrascaria Show where you can enjoy a delicious barbecue accompanied by a traditional Latin American dance performance.
Day 6: Falls from the Argentinian Side
Tomorrow: Cross the border into Argentina and explore the falls from their side. Here, you can walk along trails that lead you to the Devil’s Throat, the most impressive point of the falls.
Late: Continue exploring the national park and, if you wish, take another boat tour or a train ride through the jungle.
Evening: Return to Foz do Iguaçu for dinner and rest before your next destination.
Days 7 to 9: Amazon – Jungle Adventure
Day 7: Arrival at the Heart of the Amazon
Tomorrow: Fly from Iguazu to Manaus, the gateway to the Amazon. From there, a transfer will take you to your hotel; staying at an ecolodge is recommended. We stayed at the… Dolphin Lodge, your home in the jungle.
Late: After settling in, take a hike through the jungle to familiarize yourself with the local flora and fauna. And afterwards, we recommend a…our through the Amazon Rainforest.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at the lodge and then take part in a nighttime boat tour on the river, where you’ll have the opportunity to spot caimans and other nocturnal animals.
Day 8: Explore the Amazon Rainforest and River
Tomorrow: Wake up before dawn for a boat ride and watch the sun rise over the Amazon. It’s an unforgettable experience that showcases the majesty of the rainforest.
Late: Visit the Turtle Sanctuary and a natural rubber factory. Learn about the history and importance of these resources for the region and its inhabitants.
Evening: Participate in a piranha fishing excursion, an exciting and unique activity that connects you even more with the life of the Amazon.
Day 9: Goodbye to the Jungle
Tomorrow: Enjoy your last morning at Dolphin Lodge with a relaxing walk or simply unwinding in the natural pool that connects to the river.
Late: Return to Manaus and fly to your next destination.
Evening: Relax in your hotel and get ready for the next stage of your adventure.
Day 10 to 12: Lencois Maranhenses – Dunes and Lakes
Day 10: Arrival and First Contact
Tomorrow: Fly to Barreirinhas, the Gateway to the Lencois Maranhenses. Set up at your hotel and get ready to explore.
AFTERNOON: Take a 4×4 tour through the Dunes of Lençóis. See the impressive freshwater lakes that form between the dunes after the rainy season.
NIGHT: Dinner at one of the local restaurants and enjoy a quiet evening in this unique natural setting.
Day 11: Full Day in Lencois
Morning: Explore the dunes and lakes further. You can take a guided hike through the dunes, swim in the lakes, and enjoy the spectacular scenery. Afternoon: Continue your exploration with a boat tour on the Preguiças River, where you’ll see more of the local flora and fauna. Evening: Relax at your accommodation or participate in an evening activity organized by your hotel.Día 12: Despedida de Lençóis
Mañana: Aprovecha tus últimas horas en este paraíso con una caminata matutina o un chapuzón en los lagos.
Tarde: Vuela a tu próximo destino, Ilha Grande.
Noche:Vuelo de vuelta a Río de Janeiro.
Días 13 a 15: Ilha Grande – Paraíso Tropical
Day 13: Arrival in Ilha Grande
To conclude your trip, you’ll fly back south to Rio de Janeiro, from where you’ll transfer to Ilha Grande. This destination is known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and relaxed atmosphere.
Morning: Depart from Rio de Janeiro to Angra dos Reis by car or public transport. 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 Abraao. Stroll through its peaceful streets and relax on Abraão Beach, the perfect place to begin enjoying the island’s laid-back vibe.
Night: Dinner at Lua e Mar, a restaurant overlooking the sea that offers an excellent selection of fresh fish and seafood, perfect to start your stay in Ilha Grande.
Day 14: Lopes Mendes Beach
Morning: Take a water taxi from Vila do Abraao to Lopes Mendes, one of Brazil’s most beautiful beaches. Enjoy the morning on this beach with its white sand and crystal-clear waters.
Afternoon: Take advantage of your time in Lopes Mendes to relax or explore the surrounding area. You can return to Vila do Abraao by water taxi or hike back along the jungle trail, which offers a unique experience immersed in nature.
Evening: Dinner at Crepería Tropicana, known for its delicious crepes and welcoming atmosphere, located near the pier in Vila do Abraao.
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 summit for a spectacular view of the sunrise over the island and the surrounding sea. The hike takes approximately 3 hours.
Afternoon: Take a tour or hire a water taxi to go to Dois Rios Beach. This beach is more remote and tranquil, and is accessed on foot via a jungle trail (approximately a 1-hour hike). Here, you’ll enjoy the beach almost entirely to yourself, surrounded by the island’s stunning natural beauty. After spending time at Dois Rios, return to Vila do Abraao.
Evening:Return to Vila do Abraao 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, have dinner at Cafe do Alto in Rio, which offers delicious Brazilian food in a cozy atmosphere.
Additional Recommendations
Massages and Wellness
- Vila do Abraao Spa: It offers relaxing massages and wellness treatments. Ideal for unwinding after a long day.
- Pura Vida Spa: Located near the beach, this spa offers massages with an ocean view, perfect for total relaxation.
Preparations before traveling to Brazil
Vaccination Center
Recommendation Get vaccinated against yellow fever and check other necessary vaccines at your local vaccination center.
Mobile SIM Card
Recommendation Buy a local SIM card at the airport or a telecommunications store in Brazil to avoid high roaming costs.
Travel Insurance
Recommendation Purchase travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and lost luggage; we purchased the one for Iati.
Mosquito Repellent
Recommendation Bring an effective repellent against dengue, Zika, and chikungunya, such as one containing DEET; we used the brand [brand name missing]. Relec extra strong.
Must-see 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.
- Tour de France Final Don’t miss the Selarón Steps, a colorful tile mural that is a masterpiece by the artist Jorge Selarón.
- Platforms Civitatis and Guruwalk often offer guided tours in this neighborhood.
2. Tour of the Rocinha Favela
- Description Rocinha is Rio’s largest favela and offers a striking contrast to the more developed areas. Tours will allow you to experience the local reality and the daily lives of its inhabitants.
- Platforms Civitatis and Guruwalk have options for favela tours that are safe and well-organized.
3. Samba Circle with African History
- Description Experience an authentic samba roda, especially on Monday and Friday nights. The party gets lively from 8:30 pm onwards, and it’s a great way to enjoy Brazilian music and culture.
- Location Look in 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’s not cheap, it’s ideal for finding unique pieces.
2. Bikinis from street vendors in Ipanema
- Street vendors on the beach offer bikinis at good prices and with typical Brazilian designs.
3. Hippy Market
- Located in Ipanema on weekends, it’s perfect for buying local crafts, souvenirs, and clothing.
Meal
1.Acai
- A Brazilian delight. The best açai, according to your recommendation, is at PUC University, but there are also many other excellent places in the city.
2. Picana
- A typical Brazilian cut of meat. Belmonte restaurant is highly recommended for its excellent quality and atmosphere.
3. Barbecue
- Although you didn’t visit Fogo de Chao, it’s a well-known chain of churrasco restaurants that offers an authentic experience with a variety of meats.
I hope these recommendations are helpful and that you enjoy your trip to Brazil to the fullest. Have an amazing trip!
