5 tips for an excursion in Brazil

There are not many countries in the world with tourism growth potential as promising as that of Brazil.

You can explore the Amazon jungle, trek the deserts and get lost in the huge cities of the south. Tourism in Brazil is a key sector that has been growing over the past few years and is one of the main revenue streams helping the country recover from the economic downturn of 2008-2009. Brazil welcomes over 6 million (6,621,376) tourists in 2019 and the government aims to double the amount of tourists by 2022. One of the most effective policies is expected to be a decree that removes visa requirements for citizens of the US, Japan, Australia and Canada to enter Brazil.

Brazil is a huge country (the 5th largest in the world), so planning a vacation here can be a challenge. It almost always includes domestic flights if you plan to visit more than one place, and each region has different customs, important events, and even weather that you should be aware of. When traveling to Brazil, it is recommended that you contact a local Brazilian travel agency to help you plan your vacation.

When is the best time to go to Brazil?

The time you decide to visit Brazil is sure to have a big impact on your vacation in several ways. First of all, remember that Brazil is in the southern hemisphere, so the seasons are reversed compared to Europe. When it's summer in Europe, it's winter in Brazil and vice versa. Also, some regions in Brazil (such as the Amazon regions in the north) have heavy rainy seasons. Depending on your choice of activities, rain may affect your trip. For example, if you need to go bird watching in the Amazon, it is better to go right after the rainy season so that the water levels are high and you are closer to the nesting birds. It also means you have more access to the forest through the “ígarapés” which are water rivers penetrating the forest. If you want to explore the beaches of the river delta, however, you'll need to go in the middle of the dry season. Therefore, it is important to inform yourself when is the best time to go to Brazil.

The other thing to consider is the price. During certain times of the year, there can be a large increase in hotel prices and also availability. During New Year's and the Brazilian Carnival, it is necessary to book months in advance if you want a place in the hotels, and the prices can be surprising.

Where to go in Brazil

You need to think about which parts of this massive country you want to visit. Of course, you can visit as many parts as you like depending on how much time you have and whether you don't mind taking domestic flights during your holiday (which will certainly increase the price). Some of the most popular tourist destinations in Brazil include Rio de Janeiro, Iguazu Falls, Sao Paulo, the Pantanal and the Amazon rainforest. Some of these destinations are thousands of kilometers apart. You may also need to have some water transfers if you plan to visit islands such as Ilha Grande off the coast of Rio de Janeiro.

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Activities in different parts of Brazil

Here are some recommendations of the best tourist regions in Brazil - If you want to enjoy a sunny beach holiday, then check out the beautiful beaches of the "Nordeste" coast. The beaches there have more of a "paradise lost" vibe, although kitesurfing has become popular in recent years, prompting an influx of European visitors. You can take exciting buggy rides between the secluded little beach towns along the coast and travel along the beach and sand dunes instead of the road. For more crowded beaches and a busier and more touristy atmosphere, you should try the beaches further south in the country in Santa Catarina for example. Florinopolis is a popular destination in this area.

If you are more of an animal lover or nature watcher, then you should definitely head to the Pantanal. You can cross the 'Transpantaneira' which is the only road that crosses this vast wetland and stay in the local 'fazendas'. These are traditional farms converted into "pousadas," charming little guest houses that you'll find all over Brazil. Here, local guides will take you on expeditions and tours on foot and on horseback (or buffalo!) back to explore the lush local scenery. You might even be lucky enough to see a jaguar, Brazil's national animal.

If you prefer to travel in style and want to enjoy a luxury trip in Brazil, you should definitely consider heading to Rio de Janeiro or Sao Paulo. Apart from world-renowned cultural attractions, these cities are making a name for themselves with fine cuisine and luxurious accommodation. Most luxury hotels will also be able to book luxury tours and transfers for example by helicopter.

Culinary journeys

For a cultural and culinary visit, head to the hills of Minas Gerais. In charming historic towns like Tiradentes and Ouro Preto, you'll find some of the most impressive colonial architecture in existence today. The cooler temperature attracts many local tourists and food lovers. Mineiro food is considered to be one of the tastiest in Brazil, a good place for a culinary tour is Belo Horizonte. Specialties include: "Pão de queijo", a delicious cheese bread with a closely guarded recipe. "Frango ao molho pardo" is a special chicken recipe where the chicken cuts are cooked in the blood of the animal (mixed with vinegar) to make the sauce.

Carnival time!

One of the biggest times of the year in Brazil is certainly "Carnival". Every year, millions of revelers flock to the streets and beaches to enjoy one of the biggest street festivals in the world. The most popular cities to celebrate Carnival are Rio de Janeiro and Salvador. The "Sambodrome" in Rio de Janeiro is home to the famous samba competition. However, there are lesser-known options that offer a fantastic carnival experience, such as in Recife or Olinda, where you can enjoy the "frevo" type of music related to the local culture of the area. Remember that to enjoy Carnival in Brazil, especially in Rio de Janeiro and Salvador, you should book 4 – 6 months in advance.

In summary, the planning of trip to Brazil can be a daunting task, but if you follow these 5 tips, the whole process should become much more straightforward. Contact your preferred travel agency and ask for more information to be sure.