Visiting Brazil

Beach in Brazil

Going to Angra dos Reis on a day trip from Rio de Janeiro is a great way to spend time when you are visiting Brazil.

Angra dos Reis is located on the Costa Verde, or Green Coast, an area to the west of Rio. It is a 2-hour-and-45-minute drive from the city, and the proximity makes it a great choice for a day trip. You can get to Angra dos Reis by car, taxi, or bus. Buses depart from Rio every hour and are run by a company called Costa Verde Transportation.

Angra dos Reis is known for the islands off its coast, and is popular as a luxury travel destination in Brazil. There are plenty of yachts off the shore, and many of the islands are frequented by the rich and famous.

People that go to Angra dos Reis on a day trip from Rio de Janeiro can explore the area’s beaches and waterfalls, participate in adventure sports, take cultural tours, and visit the historic city.

If you want to extend your day trip to Angra dos Reis, you can stay overnight or take a boat to the famous Ilha Grande, where there are also plenty of options accommodation.

Salvador

The best places to visit in Brazil are scattered throughout the country. From major cities to dense Amazonian jungles and spectacular waterfalls, the country has something to offer every visitor. Below are what I consider to be the best places to visit in Brazil.

Rio de Janeiro – This famous city needs no introduction. Rio has been one of the most popular travel destinations in Brazil for years, and the city’s vibrant culture, beautiful beaches, and great nightlife attract people from all over the world.

Sao Paulo – Slightly more serious than Rio, Sao Paulo is Brazil’s big business city. While some people think that it doesn’t have as much to offer as its rival, the city is full of cultural offerings and is worth a few days on any trip to Brazil.

Iguazu Falls – Straddling the border between Argentina and Brazil, the stunning Iguazu Falls are one of the best places to visit in Brazil. Called the “Niagra Falls of South America”, Iguazu offers visitors a chance to see beautiful natural waterfalls and dense jungle. People can also take boat rides into the falls to feel the spray on their faces.

Salvador – The city of Salvador in the state of Bahia is one of the most beloved cultural capitals of Brazil. The country’s African roots are deep here, and the music, dance, and atmosphere reflect the blending of cultures.

The Amazon – The Amazon River is one of the world’s most famous waterways. The jungle surrounding it is rich with flora and fauna of all kinds, and visitors can see everything from piranhas to jaguars.

When you plan your trip, keep in mind that the country is large and travel distances are long. If you want to go to a lot of the best places to visit in Brazil, consider getting an air pass with a Brazilian airline or international carrier like LAN.

Praia do Forte

There is no shortage of places to visit in Bahia. The state has miles of coastline with beautiful beaches, colorful cities and towns, and great inland treasures. To help you narrow down the choices, here is my list of the best places in Bahia, Brazil:

Salvador – Salvador is one of the most famous cities in Brazil. Home to a colorful old town and host to the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, the city has a lot to offer.

Don’t miss the beautiful Pelourinho district with its 17th and 18th century colonial buildings and vibrant Mercado Modelo market, the Barra Lighthouse, the Bonfim Church, the traditional Ribeira neighborhood, Corredor da Vitoria, Campo Grande, Piedade, Sao Tome de Paripe Beach, the Cidade Baixa with its Itapagipe Peninsula, and the Cidade Alta.

Praia do Forte – Located on the coast not far from Salvador, Praia do Forte is one of the best places in Bahia. The town has great shops and restaurants, accommodations, resorts, beaches, and the TAMAR turtle sanctuary where visitors can see conservation efforts taking place.

The Islands – Bahia has no shortage of beautiful islands off its coast. Some of the best are Itaparica and Ilha dos Frades, which are located in All Saints Bay near Salvador. Others include the famous Ilha de Tinhare, on which the famous Morro de Sao Paulo lies, as well as the Ilha de Boipeba. These secluded islands to the south of Salvador are known for their stunning beaches where visitors can go snorkeling and sunbathing.

Cachoeira – Smaller and less well-known to people visiting Brazil, the Bahian city Cachoeira is well worth a visit. Located 110 kilometers from Salvador, it is brimming with history and is home to stunning architecture. Don’t miss the beautiful Igreja da Ordem Terceiro do Carmo church, the Hansen Bahia Foundation, and the Danneman Cultural Center.

Marau and Itacare – The neighboring Marau and Itacare peninsulas are two of the most beautiful places in Bahia. They are lush with coconut trees, coastal forest land, lakes, waterfalls, and picturesque sandy beaches with clear water. Visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the region in Marau, and surfers can find some of the best surfing in Brazil in Itacare.

Chapada Diamantina – Away from the coat, Chapada Diamantina is one of the best places in Bahia’s inland region. The rugged natural beauty of the area features waterfalls, deep valleys, caves, lakes, and plateaus. If you ever get tired of the beaches in Bahia, Chapada Diamantina is the place to visit.