Brazil Itineraries

If you have only a few days to spare, your best option is flying directly into Rio de Janeiro and remaining in the area instead of using your precious time to travel further afield. After all, with sights as exciting as Corcovado, Sugar Loaf, Copacabana, and Ipanema, the magnificent city will easily occupy your time – and if you’d like to experience the rainforest, you can head to the nearby Parque Nacional da Tijuca.

Energetic travelers can start a week’s trip in Rio, then catch a flight north to Salvador da Bahia for a few days of relaxing on beautiful beaches and savoring the region’s vibrant cultural scene. Head back to the airport and spend days 5 and 6 at Iguacu Falls or in São Paulo, depending on your interests; if you choose the latter, save yourself a flight by booking a ticket that enters Brazil in Rio and departs from São Paulo.

Purchase an economical air pass to make the most of a whirlwind 2-week trip that takes you to several Brazilian regions. Start with 4 days in Rio, then fly north to Salvador for 3 days. Head west to Manaus at the start of week 2 and check into an eco-resort or lodge, and explore the Amazon by boat. Make a quick stop at Iguacu Falls or Ilha de Santa Catarina before departing from Rio.