Visiting Brazil

Iguazu Falls

Many people that are visiting Brazil for only a short time want to go to Iguazu Falls on a day trip from Rio de Janeiro. For those that are interested in doing it, there is good news and bad news.

The good news is that it is technically possible to go on a day trip to Iguazu from Rio. The bad news is that it is both expensive and slightly inconvenient.

The airlines that fly from Rio to Iguazu do not offer flights that allow passengers enough time to travel to and from the falls in one day. As such, if you want to go on a day trip to Iguazu Falls, you will have to buy a one-way ticket on one airline to get there and a one-way ticket on another airline to get back. Prices for one-way flights are expensive, making it more economical to stay at a hotel in Iguazu overnight.

The other drawback is that even if you fly to Iguazu Falls with one airline and back with another, you still won’t have much time at the falls themselves. For example, TAM offers a flight that lands at IGU airport at 12:35pm, and GOL has a flight that departs IGU at 4:40pm. Given the transfer time and the need to arrive at the airport early to check in for your return flight, there isn’t a lot of time to see the falls.

Still, if you are determined to go to Iguazu Falls on a day trip from Rio de Janeiro, it is possible to do. If you don’t mind spending extra money and having a short visit, you can go there for a day and at least be able to say that you saw the famous waterfalls.

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.