Category: Brazil

Everyone should have dancing at Rio Carnival on their bucket list, I certainly do! Brazil is the country of contrast, offering something very different in each city, however the passion and feel is always the same, while their love for football is almost tangible. Football is life for Brazilians, considering they are the greatest country in the worlds history I guess it’s unsurprising, with the likes of Pele, Ronaldo, Ronaldinho, Romario, Neymar, Socrates and Zico. The largest country in South America, the countries population is largely based down south, with the likes of Sao Paulo and Rio De janiero. Of course, I’d recommend having a read of my list of things to do in Sao Paulo if you’re thinking of heading over there. You should also keep your eyes out for the diverse range of wildlife you might see, with 600 mammal species living here. Of course, keep a closer eye out for the anacondas and alligators if you explore through the wetlands. Deforestation in Brazil is one of the most catastrophic realities of the modern world, the number one thing I would put my money towards, with the rainforest getting torn down and destroyed at a remarkable rate. Contrasting to the rest of South America, Brazil has Portuguese as the national language, however it is still quite different to the European language, as it inevitably would be over time.

20 Famous Landmarks In Brazil

I didn’t spend long in Brazil unfortunately, it’s such a big country and I’ll have to return to spend a whole month there, especially as my brother in law is Brazilian, time to visit! Below I’ve included some of the most amazing and famous landmarks you can expect to find in Brazil during your visit.

1) Iguazu Falls

I spent two days here, but I could have spent a lot longer! You should visit both the Brazilian and the Argentinian side. You can also get a helicopter ride from the Brazilian side, something I pushed the boat out on as I didn’t want to look back with regret and I can promise you it was worth every penny!

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for good reason, I’ve seen waterfalls in the past, but this felt like it spanned the entire horizon, wherever you looked there were more waterfalls.

You could do 3-4 hours on the Brazilian side, but the Argentinian side does have more trails, so be aware that really does take a full day.

2) Amazon Theatre

The Amazon Theatre, or Teatro Amazonas as it is properly know, is an opera house located in Manaus. The pink building is a highly recognisable scene and has featured in many movies such as the 1982 film Fitzcarraldo. Heads up, it’s currently not handicap accessible.

If you book yourself into a guided tour then this should last around 45-60 minutes. There are also performances here which you could book tickets for. The tours normally take place in the morning, depending on whether there is a show that day and at what time.

3) Christ The Redeemer

I might not be a religious person, but this is quite a sight, standing over Rio de Janeiro. The art deco statue was created by the illustrious sculptor Paul Landowski and was placed at the summit of Mount Corcovado. Interestingly, it is only the 4^th largest statue of Jesus!

You may only need a couple of hours here (how long do you stare at a statue for), but reaching the top will take you a good hour. You should aim to get here early morning, before the crowds have gathered and before the midday heat. But also, try to find out if it’s going to be foggy that day, too many tourists forget to check this beforehand.

4) Sugarloaf Mountain

Found at Guanabara bay, this mountain stands 1,299 feet above sea level and looks incredibly unique, said to look like a pile of sugar, hence the name. You can get a cable car ride up to the top, leaving from Urca. Alternatively, there is a walkway from the centre of Abergavenny, through Cantref and Llywyndu, then the northbound footpath up Sugarloaf Mountain.

Pão de Açúcar (Sugarloaf Mountain) is actually better to visit in the late afternoon so you can watch the sun set and then the city lights of Rio fill your vision. It’s better if you buy the tickets in advance so you’re not stuck queuing at a ticket office.

5) Cathedral of Brasilia

The seat of the Archdiocese of Brasilia and a key aspect of the Brazilian architecture, the cathedral was completed in 1960 and designed by Oscar Niemeyer. It was actually the first monument built in the city and looks truly unique.

The entrance is fee (it’s nice to donate though, they have boxes to do so), while it’s best seen early in the morning.

6) Niterói Contemporary Art Museum

As you can guess by the name, this is a contemporary art museum, housing 1,217 amazing pieces of artwork, assembled since the 1950’s until the launch of this museum in 1996. But what you can’t see from the name is the peculiar and spectacular architecture and the unbelievable views you get. Located right along the seafront, the building looks closer to an alien ship than the stereotypical art museum.

7) National Congress of Brazil

Parliamentary buildings are regularly seen as some of the most stunning in each country, a key landmark which people expect to be listed on their tourist tick list. However, not many come as close to the National Congress of Brazil (Westminster, the Hague and the Bucharest palace of parliament come to mind). The two different semi-spheres are for different seats, one the senate and the other the chamber of deputies.

8) Arcos Da Lapa

This is an 18^th century aqueduct found in Rio de Janeiro, known for its famous white arches. There are actually 42 of these Roman style arches and is recognised as one of the most famous colonial buildings in the country. Interestingly, it was initially created in wood, but the structure wasn’t very stable so they had to go back to the drawing board.

9) Ipanema Beach

When you think of Brazil, you can’t help but straight away go to the white sandy beaches and people soaking up the sun. Well Ipanema offers this and much more. Located on the south zone of Rio de Janeiro (as so many parts of this list are), it has long been recognised as the crown jewel of the city. In fact, while you’re here, you might want to read my list of the best things to do in Rio de Janeiro. Beyond sun bathing, there are plenty of surfers enjoying the big waves, it offers a great view of sunset, there are plenty of great fashion stores and restaurants along this area and the backdrop is incredible.

10) Copacabana Beach

OK, two beaches in a row, but who doesn’t instantly start humming along to the Barry Manilow song as soon as you hear the name? Everybody do the Cha Cha! This 2.2 mile beach is found in, you guessed it, Rio de Janeiro. I would however recommend avoiding the beach at night time, where safety levels do tend to drop, no watching sunset. The beach is probably best known for how vibrant and lively it is, with people laughing, talking and playing a bit of beach football.

11) Escadaria Selaron

The other name for this is the Selaron Steps and has been featured in various movies, such as the Incredible Hulk. The colourful steps are the creation of Jorge Selaron, the Chilean artist, and stretches 125 metres. This mosaic has now easily become one of the most notable landmarks in Rio de Janeiro.

12) Lençóis Maranhenses

The Parque Nacional dos Lençóis Maranhenses is a desert based national park that looks incredibly different to the rest of the country. The rain on the sand can occasionally make for some great optical illusions, much like the Uyuni Salt Flats. The national park can take up a few days of your holiday, considering it stretches 1,550 square kilometres, however the beautiful scenery will make you not want to leave.

13) Elevador Lacerda

The Elevador Lacerda, or the Lacerda elevator (in case you didn’t get that translation) is located in Salvador, at the Praça Tomé de Souza. The public lift goes up 72 metres, meaning you get a pretty good view of the city and making it a great stop-off for some quick snaps. Interestingly, this was the first public lift in the world! It’ also a key connection for the old town to the business centre. The construction was complete in 1873, but don’t worry, plenty of modern work has gone into the elevator, so it shouldn’t break down on you.

14) Obelisk

This monument is one of the key attractions in Sao Paulo. Speaking of which, if you’re visiting, make sure to read my list of things to do in Sao Paulo. The Obelisk stands 72 metres tall and is the biggest monument in the entire city. The focus around the construction was as a symbol towards the Constitutionalist revolution, which took place in 1932.

15) Igreja de Sao Francisco de Assis

Quite a mouthful! In English, it’s called the Church of Saint Francis of Assisi, found in Ouro Preto. I’m not normally over incentivised to check out churches or to include them on lists of the best landmarks, but this one is quite beautiful and looks very unique. If you arrive on either a Friday or a Sunday then you might also catch the organist playing.

16) Fernando de Noronha

This to me looks like a scene from a Lego pirate box, with rock shapes coming out of deeply blue water, I keep expecting a pirate ship to float on by. It’s actually a volcanic archipelago, consisting of 21 islands. As you can therefore imagine, it’s not connected to the Brazilian mainland and is actually 220 miles off the Brazilian coastline, so you will need to arrange a boat trip out here, but that just adds to the enjoyment! There is also plenty of wildlife to keep an eye out for, while only one of the islands is inhabited, so pack plenty of food and water.

17) Itaimbezinho Canyon

Easily one of the most picturesque scenes in Brazil, this will make the perfect image for the postcard home. There are a number of canyons located in the Aparados da Serra national park, but it’s certainly the most popular and biggest tourist attraction in the area. If you plan on doing a hike, don’t underestimate the length and pack plenty of water, we made this mistake when trekking the Grand Canyon and my mate almost passed out!

18) Museum Of Tomorrow

I’m a marketing man, with a love for technology and a curiosity about what tomorrow brings, therefore this is right up my street! The Museum of Tomorrow, or Museu do Amanhã, is an applied science museum and focuses on where human kind is heading in the future, especially with the ever changing climate. Considering how much the Amazon rainforest is being torn down and the landscape is changing, it feels like Brazil is the perfect spot for this museum.

19) Botanical Garden of Curitiba

Who doesn’t love exploring some botanical gardens? The main attraction is the greenhouse in the centre, while it’s also on the city bus tour route so you can jump off and explore for a bit before continuing with your exploration of Curitiba. There are also plenty of exotic birds flying above which are worth looking out for.

20) Meeting Of Waters

Stretching 3.7 miles, this is where two rivers run alongside each other, but don’t blend into one, making for a breathtaking sight. The Rio Solimoes is that yellow sandy river you’ll see in the photos, while the Rio Negro is the darker counterpart, often containing plenty of leaves and fallings from the trees. You can find this spectacle a mere 10km from Manaus.

August 7, 2025
10 Things To Do In Rio De Janeiro

Formerly the Brazilian capital, Rio is the home of Carnival, the world famous beaches and gorgeous people. What some people are less aware of is the abundance of natural wonders and picturesque landscape. Get those cameras ready, as my list of things to do in Rio De Janeiro will keep you pretty busy!

1) Rio Carnival

The biggest party in the world, the carnival goes on for four days, with approximately 1,000 blocos (street bands to me and you), percussion groups, dancers and singers all put on a parade even the pope would be proud of. If you are new to the city, you can actually arrange party tours during Carnival, where you will have someone guide you around, which will help you to party the night away while avoiding some of the more dangerous areas or people. There is even a VIP option if you feel like treating yourself.

image by nateClicks

2) Visit The Beach

You couldn’t visit Rio without spending a decent amount of time on the sandy beaches, soaking in the sun and checking out some of the hottest people in the world! With a huge passion for football, you could join in a cheeky game, or have a go at a watersport, or simply brown the skin a little bit. The number one spot is Copacabana, often the scene they use to illustrate the relaxed lifestyle some have in Brazil. You also might want to check out Ipanema, Arpoador and Botafogo beach.

image by Christian Haugen

3) Go Hang Gliding

I have an extreme fear of heights, but if you have a bit more courage than me then I would recommend considering the hang gliding options available. You will have someone attached to you doing all the directing and keeping you calm, while you just look out at the stunning views. You can even request pictures to be taken from a selfie stick on the glider, but make sure you check this is included beforehand. The pictures will be your profile shot on Facebook for years to come!

image by Marcin Wichary

4) Christ The Redeemer

In a highly religious country, the image of Christ will follow you where ever you go. The statue of Christ on top of the Corcovado Peak is easily the most well known one in the world, standing atop a 710 metre peak, looking out over Rio. This also offers you a chance to hike up a hill and escape the busy city life for a bit, although the area will be filled with tourists, so be prepared for the snap happy fingers.

image by dany13

5) Sugarloaf Mountain

As you relax on Guanabara Bay, you have a brilliant view of Sugarloaf mountain. If you properly want to explore the mountain, take the bondinho (cable car) from the base of Babilonia hill. These cable cars run on a regular basis and are reasonably priced.

image by Christian Haugen

6) Visit A Market

No trip is complete for me personally until I have raided a market, found a bargain and tried a local delicacy. Running mainly on the Sunday, you should try both Gloria and Uruguaiana, where you will find plenty of spices, crafts and jewellery, food for lunch and a present for someone back home. Both markets are quite different to each other, so if you didn’t enjoy one, don’t rule out visiting the other, as they are great fun.

image by Barbara Eckstein

7) The Favela’s

This is a difficult one, as these can be incredibly dangerous, not to mention a bit disrespectful to be exploring people’s homes to see how poor they are. But it is an eye opening experience and will show you the other side to the city, the real Rio De Janeiro. Approximately 70,000 of the poorest people in the whole city live in this area, however there are opportunities to even stay in these for a period of time, to get a feel for what it is like, as well as getting to know others in the area. Just be cautious with these, as there is a huge risk involved.

image by Alex

8) The Maracana Stadium

You might remember this stadium in recent times as it was the host to the 2014 World Cup Final. Built at the end of the 1940’s, in preparation for Brazil to host the world cup in 1950, the stadium has seen some truly memorable games and is seen as a sporting Mecca for true football fans.

image by dronepicr

9) Parque Nacional and Floresta da Tijuca

One of the key things that intrigues me about South America is the tropical rain forest, however it is easy to get side tracked in Rio by the beach and party lifestyle. I would therefore recommend splitting your week up by checking out the national park, filled with giant waterfalls, brilliant walking trails and some great birds to look out for.

image by Maurício Victor Uzeda

10) Lapa By Bike

There is plenty to see in this area, from markets and antique stores, to bars where you can samba or go to dance classes, or just enjoy the general atmosphere. They now have a number of bike rental stands in the area, meaning you can explore the whole area within a few hours, helping you to keep to a tight schedule, while also squeezing in some exercise to make up for the drinks you will be having that evening.

image by dany13

January 4, 2016
Things To Do In Sao Paulo

With the World Cup coming to Brazil this summer, tourism to Sao Paulo is sky rocketing. While I am a giant football fan, I felt it would be great to point out everything else you should do while on holiday in Sao Paulo. This is fast becoming an area to visit for backpackers along their treks to Machu Picchu and Iguazu Falls, as they enter Brazil hoping for warm weather, carnival atmosphere and salsa dancing the night away. Visiting Sao Paulo hasn’t quite made it onto my list of 100 things to do before you die, but it is definitely something I plan on ticking off as it is where my sister’s husband comes from. Read below for my ultimate list of things to do in Sao Paulo.

1. Climb the Banespa Tower

The Banespa Tower, or Torre do Banespa or also the Altino Arantes building as it is also known as, will offer you an unbelievable view of the city, perfect for those snaps to show family and friends and for a great Facebook profile photo. It was built during the second world war, between 1939 and 1947, it was actually the largest reinforced concrete building in the world at the time, but as you can imagine it was eventually overtaken, while it isn’t actually the tallest building in the city anymore.

Flickr creative commons – Ruth Flickr

2. Museu de Arte de São Paulo (MASP)

The Masp, or the Museu de Arte de São Paulo as it is formally called, is a brilliant art museum, found on Paulista Avenue. You will struggle to find a better art museum in the entirety of South America, while you can also get free entry if you arrive on a Tuesday. Be prepared for it to be a bit busy on the weekends or during school holidays.

3. Benedito Calixto

This is an open air market, based in Praça Benedito Calixto in Pinheiros. Search through all of the second hand items and look out for some hidden treasure, while you can find everything from clothes, electronics and furniture. Despite not being a big person for shopping, I absolutely love going to markets while abroad as it really makes you feel like you’re a long way from home. They are also quite relaxed here. I have bad experiences visiting markets in Egypt, which left a bad taste in my mouth, but this is quite different to South American markets where they very much leave you to make a decision for yourself without aggressively harassing you.

4. Ibirapuera Park

The massive green park area in the centre of Sao Paulo, with stunning lakes and a planetarium, Ibirapuera Park to Sao Paulo is very much the equivalent of Hyde Park to London or Central Park to New York. I’d recommend hiring a bike and taking a day cycling around, while relaxing with a picnic half way through.

5. Sao Paulo Zoo

With over 3,000 animals, you can understand the attraction to this amazing zoo. You will find the zoo in the suburbs of Congonhas, while this makes out for a great day activity for people of all ages. You will also see some of the native Brazilian animals, meaning you don’t have to feel downhearted if you miss out on visiting the rainforest. In fact, this zoo contains a rainforest trail, as well as a botanical garden.

6. São Bento Monastery

I often find visiting museums and monasteries a bit dull, but this isn’t about me, so it is important to include this as it is one of the main places you are ‘supposed to visit’. The monastery is attached to a church, which was built all the way back in the 16th century. I would recommend arriving at daybreak, as you will see the monks come out and sing a traditional song which they perform every day.

7. Museo Do Futebol

If you are arriving to watch the football, then you might also enjoy visiting the Football Museum. In fact, even if football isn’t really your thing, you might still find this interesting, as football is so deeply integrated into the Brazilian lifestyle, given how successful they are at the sport, this museum truly honours all their greats, including the world’s greatest player, Pele. This is also a great one to take the children if you have any little nippers yourself.

June 4, 2014