{"id":7678,"date":"2018-09-04T11:35:21","date_gmt":"2018-09-04T09:35:21","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/?p=7678"},"modified":"2025-05-01T10:21:42","modified_gmt":"2025-05-01T08:21:42","slug":"backpacking-brazil","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/destinations-en\/brazil-en\/backpacking-brazil\/","title":{"rendered":"Brazil Travel Guide"},"content":{"rendered":"<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Brazil is the largest country in South America and the fifth largest globally. It is a place where diversity reigns supreme: from metropolises such as S\u00e3o Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, which, as everyone knows, is home to the world&#8217;s most famous carnival, to the unspoiled nature of the Amazon rainforest, throwing in dreamy beaches, colonial cities, an unbridled passion for soccer, and incredible people\u2014in short, there is something for everyone!\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In this guide, you&#8217;ll find plenty of valuable tips to help you make the most of your trip to Brazil, as always, with an eye on budget.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Quick menu<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400; text-align: left;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/destinations-en\/brazil-en\/backpacking-brazil\/#when\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When to visit Brazil<\/span><\/a><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400; text-align: left;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/destinations-en\/brazil-en\/backpacking-brazil\/#doc\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Documents and vaccinations to enter Brazil<\/span><\/a><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400; text-align: left;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/destinations-en\/brazil-en\/backpacking-brazil\/#what\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What to do and see in Brazil<\/span><\/a><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400; text-align: left;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/destinations-en\/brazil-en\/backpacking-brazil\/#iti\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Suggested itineraries in Brazil<\/span><\/a><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400; text-align: left;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/destinations-en\/brazil-en\/backpacking-brazil\/#how\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How to get around Brazil<\/span><\/a><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400; text-align: left;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/destinations-en\/brazil-en\/backpacking-brazil\/#cost\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Backpacking Brazil: costs<\/span><\/a><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400; text-align: left;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/destinations-en\/brazil-en\/backpacking-brazil\/#safe\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Backpacking Brazil: Safety<\/span><\/a><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/paraty_strade_ciottolate.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1110\" height=\"624\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Paraty.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<div id=\"when\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><\/div>\r\n<h2 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>When to visit Brazil<\/b><\/h2>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When discussing climate, it is good to consider that the country can be divided into at least three distinct climatic regions.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>South and southeast<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Broadly speaking, Belo Horizonte, Rio de Janeiro, S\u00e3o Paulo, and Porto Alegre. Here, it can be &#8220;cold&#8221; from June to September, with temperatures that, in any case, rarely drop below 15-20 degrees during the day. Along the coast, the climate is more temperate than inland; obviously, the further south you go, the colder it gets. Rainfall is most frequent during December-February but can occur throughout the year.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>North and Northeast:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> It is never cold, with average temperatures hovering between 25 and 30 degrees throughout the year. The months from August to February are generally the driest, and those between March and July are the rainiest.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Amazon Rainforest and Pantanal<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It is hot and humid throughout the year, but rainfall is concentrated between December and March; temperatures hardly drop below 20 degrees, even in winter. The best time to visit these regions is from May to October, during the dry season when animals are attracted to a few bodies of water; July and August are by far the best as temperatures are the lowest of the year.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Defining the best time to visit Brazil is challenging and depends significantly on the region you want to see. In any case, the period from the end of August to the end of October is a good compromise in most parts of the country.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/sentieri_trekking_florianopolis.jpg\" alt=\"Vista da uno dei sentieri che collega le spiagge a Florianopolis\" width=\"1110\" height=\"624\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>Florian\u00f3polis.<\/em><\/p>\r\n\r\n<div id=\"doc\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><\/div>\r\n<h2 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Documents and vaccinations to enter Brazil<\/b><\/h2>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Most passport holders receive a 90-day free tourist visa when they enter the country.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The visa can be renewed for 90 days by applying to the federal police. You cannot stay in the country for more than 180 days during 12 months. If you want to renew your visa, I refer you to this step-by-step <\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/joyandjourney.com\/how-do-i-extend-my-brazilian-tourist-visa-other-brazilian-visa-questions\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">guide<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Brazil requires no mandatory vaccinations, but Hepatitis A and B are recommended. As for Yellow Fever, although it is not needed, it is highly recommended, especially if you decide to visit high-risk areas.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n<div id=\"what\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><\/div>\r\n<h2 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>What to do and see in Brazil<\/b><\/h2>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When it comes to such a large country, there are many possible tourist destinations, and someone could easily spend years travelling around Brazil. In this section, you will find the main destinations I recommend you visit due to my personal experience, hearsay from other travellers, and research I have done.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This guide expresses prices in the local currency called &#8220;Brazilian Real,&#8221; often abbreviated as &#8220;BRL.&#8221; The exchange rate at the time of publication of this article is 1\u20ac = 5.58 BRL. I recommend you look at <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.xe.com\/currencyconverter\/convert\/?Amount=1&amp;From=EUR&amp;To=BRL\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">this page<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> for the current exchange rate.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In Brazil there are plenty of airports to fly to, and those in the south, especially near Porto Alegre, S\u00e3o Paulo, and Rio de Janeiro, are often the cheapest. That&#8217;s why I will start right from the south of the country.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h3><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/cosa_vedere_brasile.jpg\" alt=\"Mappa turistica del Brasile, dove andare e cosa vedere\" width=\"790\" height=\"808\" \/><\/h3>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">N.b. Several times throughout the guide, you will find links to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.alltrails.com\/\">https:\/\/www.tails.com\/<\/a>. Upgrade to the pro version if you want offline navigation directly from the Alltrails app. However, you can get around this by downloading the coordinates from the site&#8217;s desktop version in &#8220;Google Earth KML&#8221; format and then uploading them to <\/span><\/i><a href=\"https:\/\/organicmaps.app\/\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">organic maps<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, which is by far one of my favourite travel apps.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Foz do Igua\u00e7u<\/b><\/h3>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Foz do Igua\u00e7u is the sister city of Puerto Iguazu but much larger and more developed. The city was founded and grew as an access point to the nearby Iguazu Falls that Brazil shares with Argentina, but it also offers other exciting activities.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In case it was unclear, there are two sides to Iguazu Falls: the Argentine and Brazilian sides, which are distinct and should be visited separately. Composed of some 275 individual waterfalls, they all form one of nature&#8217;s seven wonders.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>What is the difference between the Brazilian and Argentine sides of Iguazu Falls?<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Argentine side, with its system of footbridges, takes you &#8220;inside&#8221; the falls and allows you to experience their power up close, while the Brazilian side offers a panoramic view of the falls. Both sides have their charm, and if you can, I recommend visiting both. However, if you have to choose due to time or budget constraints, I recommend prioritising the Argentine side.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It is possible to visit both sides on two separate days using Foz do Igua\u00e7u as a base and crossing the border by taking a bus from the Foz do Igua\u00e7u terminal to the Puerto Iguaz\u00fa terminal, from here, buses to the falls depart about every 20 minutes starting at 7 a.m.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/cascate_iguazu_lato_argentino.jpg\" alt=\"Le cascate Iguazu, lato argentino\" width=\"1110\" height=\"624\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>Iguazu Falls (Argentine side).<\/em><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h4 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>What to do and see in Foz do Igua\u00e7u<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/h4>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The waterfalls are the main attraction, but below, I have also listed other activities that can be done in and around Foz do Igua\u00e7u.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>How to visit Iguazu Falls (Brazilian side)<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The cheapest way to reach the falls is via one of the many public buses that depart every 10 minutes from the bus terminal and make numerous stops (ask your hostel\/hotel which one is closest), costing 3.45 BRL one way. The bus is the same one that goes through the airport and Das Aves Park. The entrance to the falls is the last stop, approximately half an hour away.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The ticket costs BRL 80 and can also be paid by card at the entrance or online (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/tickets.cataratasdoiguacu.com.br\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">official website<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). Once you pay the entrance fee, you board a bus and get off at the &#8220;Trilha Das Cataratas&#8221; stop, where virtually everyone gets off anyway. There is a walking trail that takes you all the way to the main falls with various viewpoints on the Argentine side of the falls along the way. The trail ends at a picnic area with restaurants and stores; here you can board the bus again to return to the entrance. Even going very slowly, 2 hours is more than enough; the trail is really short. The park is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. during winter and from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. in summer.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/cascete_iguazu_lato_brasiliano.jpg\" alt=\"Le cascate di Iguazu viste dal lato brasiliano\" width=\"1110\" height=\"624\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>Iguazu Falls (Brazilian side).\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Parque das Aves<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.parquedasaves.com.br\/en\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The park<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/98NzniP4vw62CrUWA\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) is located just outside the entrance to the falls (returning to the main road exactly on the other side) and can easily be visited on the same day.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It is a walking tour through giant cages nestled in the jungle that is home to about 900 birds of 180 different species, some reptiles and butterflies. All the animals can be seen from a few metres away, and I recommend it. Again, 2 hours is more than enough time. The cost of admission is 80 BRL. The park is open from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm during winter and from 8:30 am to 6 pm in summer.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Itaipu Dam<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This is the second largest dam in the world in terms of hydroelectric production, halfway between Paraguay and Brazil. It can be visited from both sides, but I recommend the Paraguayan one as the tour is free (the government offers it to boost tourism) and can be incorporated into a short trip to Paraguay as described in my travel guide, perhaps along with the beautiful Jesuit ruins in Trinidad.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you don&#8217;t feel like crossing the border or have the time for it, you can join the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/turismoitaipu.com.br\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">tour from the Brazilian side<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. The cost is BRL 58, and it is a scenic tour of the dam. There are direct buses that leave from the bus terminal.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/tucano_Parque_das_Aves.jpg\" alt=\"Un tucano a Parque das Aves\" width=\"1110\" height=\"624\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>Parque das Aves.<\/em><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Marco das Tr\u00eas Fronteiras and Buddhist temple<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These are two sites that are not particularly exciting, in my opinion, but if you have time on your hands, they are worth a tour.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Marco das Tr\u00eas Fronteiras (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/352CoSA8QsgjyTnU7\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) is where the borders of Brazil, Argentina, and Paraguay meet in the middle of the river. Each country has its little monument, and Brazil has just renovated it; there is a nice view of the river, but it ends there.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">While at the Buddhist temple (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/SZnjXWmbzhGE6kH48\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">), the main attraction is a large golden statue of a seated Buddha. Both sites are accessible by public transportation and are really close to the city center.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b><i>Where to sleep in Foz do Igua\u00e7u?<\/i><\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/br\/tetris-container-hostel.en.html?aid=1680713&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tetris Container<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Hostel is very special because, as the name suggests, it is built from recycled containers. The hostel is clean and well-maintained, with excellent common areas, including a swimming pool. Breakfast is included.\u00a0<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b><i>How to reach Foz do Igua\u00e7u?<\/i><\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There are frequent buses to and from Ciudad del Este and Puerto Iguazu, where you can continue your journey to Paraguay or Argentina. Foz do Igua\u00e7u is also connected to all the major cities in southern Brazil, Florian\u00f3polis, S\u00e3o Paulo, and Rio de Janeiro, just to name a few. If booked in advance, domestic flights in Brazil are cheap<\/span><\/i><b><i>.\u00a0<\/i><\/b><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Pantanal<\/b><\/h3>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pantanal is the largest wetland in the world, a vast floodplain subject to periodic flooding. It is one of the largest freshwater ecosystems globally, and the chance of observing wildlife is higher than in the Amazon rainforest, especially during the dry season when jaguar sightings are relatively frequent, making it the best place in the world for that purpose.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Given its size, there are several access points. The two most popular are Cuiab\u00e1 for the north and Campo Grande for the south. Once you arrive in either of these towns, relying on a local agency is advisable. The most popular format is the all-inclusive packages, including a transfer to a lodge (fazendas) where you spend a few nights participating in guided activities to explore the Pantanal. Unfortunately, I haven&#8217;t personally visited the area. I recommend checking out <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bringusthathorizon.co.uk\/post\/bonito-southern-pantanal-brazil\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">this guide<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/giaguaro_pantanal.jpg\" alt=\"Giaguaro nel pantanal in brasile\" width=\"1110\" height=\"624\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b><i>How to reach the Pantanal?<\/i><\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">From the south, there are numerous direct buses to Campo Grande, 22 hours from Rio, 16 hours from S\u00e3o Paulo, and about 10 from Foz do Iguacu.\u00a0<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">From Paraguay, you can cross the border at Pedro Juan Caballero; from Bolivia, you can take a train from Santa Cruz to Puerto Suarez, cross the border, arrive at Corumb\u00e1, and take a bus to Campo Grande.\u00a0<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As for Cuiab\u00e1, the most likely connections are from Campo Grande, which is 12 hours, and Brasilia, which is about 20 hours. Both Campo Grande and Cuiab\u00e1 are well served by daily local flights, which can be convenient.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Florian\u00f3polis<\/b><\/h3>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Florian\u00f3polis is a very special city that is split into two parts. Half is on the mainland, and the other half are on the giant Catarina Island, which is not far from the coast and connected by three bridges.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The city has grown in popularity as a tourist destination in recent years, thanks mainly to the fantastic beaches, the good surfing conditions, and the fact that the city is nowhere near as chaotic as other Brazilian metropolises.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Catarina Island can be divided into three areas: north, which is heavily developed, and where the main resorts and luxury hotels are located. The center of the island, which is to the west of downtown Florian\u00f3polis and finally the east, where we find Lagoa da Concei\u00e7\u00e3o and Barra Da Lagoa; here, the atmosphere is much more relaxed, most hostels are located here. The very south of the island is sparsely developed and almost uninhabited; many beaches can only be reached by jungle trails.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h4 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>What to do and see in Florian\u00f3polis\u00a0<\/b><\/h4>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There are 42 beaches, some great for surfing, others for swimming, some isolated, some practically deserted; in short, options for all tastes. Plenty of trails across the island are suitable for longer or shorter treks, including one of about two hours at the &#8220;Lagoa do Leste&#8221; beach, considered one of the most beautiful in the country (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.alltrails.com\/trail\/brazil\/santa-catarina--2\/praia-da-lagoinha-do-leste-via-morro-da-coroa-via-sul?u=m&amp;sh=mxqbmj\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">All Trails<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For windsurfers, Lagoa da Concei\u00e7\u00e3o offers excellent conditions and is a world-renowned destination. There is also a lively nightlife.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The only note I would make is that being so far south, from June to September, it is not really hot, and since it is a beach destination, it may be better to go somewhere else. I was there in May and got lucky with nice warm days, but it is already considered low season, and the hostels were semi-deserted. January and February are the hottest and most expensive and crowded months.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/spiaggia_florianopolis_brasile.jpg\" alt=\"Spiaggia di florianopolis al tramonto\" width=\"1110\" height=\"624\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>Florian\u00f3polis.<\/em><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b><i>Where to sleep in Florian\u00f3polis?<\/i><\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">I slept in a hostel in Barra da Lagoa by the sea. The village is small, but there are a couple of supermarkets and beaches within walking distance without necessarily having to take the bus. The island has many options, from party hostels, mainly in Lagoa da Concei\u00e7\u00e3o, to eco hostels. Take a look <\/span><\/i><a href=\"https:\/\/prf.hn\/click\/camref:1100l3LP6\/destination:https%3A%2F%2Fwww.hostelworld.com%2Fsearch%3Fsearch_keywords%3DFlorianopolis%252C%2BBrazil%26country%3DBrazil%26city%3DFlorianopolis%26date_from%3D2018-11-15%26date_to%3D2018-11-16%26number_of_guests%3D1%26display%3Dmap\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">here<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b><i>How to reach Florian\u00f3polis?<\/i><\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Foz do Igua\u00e7u is about 16 hours by bus, from Porto Alegre is about 6 hours, and S\u00e3o Paulo is 12 hours away. Of course, there are also buses to other major Brazilian cities. As always, it is also worth looking at domestic flights for long distances.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">N.b. Urban transport in the city and on the island operates similarly to the subway; once inside the system, you can travel anywhere by changing lines at various stations, and the ticket costs 3.10 BRL. The city bus station is just outside the bus terminal on the right. Each hostel can provide precise instructions on which line to take to reach a particular part of the island.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>S\u00e3o Paulo<\/b><\/h3>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">One word to describe S\u00e3o Paulo is &#8220;giant.&#8221; We are talking about a city with 11 million inhabitants and more than 20 in its metropolitan area. The city is not particularly touristy and is often overshadowed by other cities such as Rio de Janeiro and Salvador. Still, S\u00e3o Paulo is undoubtedly one of the most energetic cities in the world and it\u2019s worth a couple of days.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h4 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>What to do and see in S\u00e3o Paulo<\/b><\/h4>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As always, in big cities, many <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.saopaulofreewalkingtour.com\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">free walking tours<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> are offered that cover the main tourist areas. There are many museums and parks, but for many travelers, the main attraction remains the Vila Ol\u00edmpia (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/2k1o6BeqUUBohycBA\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) and Vila Madalena (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/dgL8VPvXwdj4W3mq6\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) neighborhoods. Here we find the center of S\u00e3o Paulo&#8217;s nightlife and most hostels.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The city is not just about the nightlife, however: the historic center (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/o19KuCTi4NhNXjyN9\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">), which went through a period of decay in the past, is recovering thanks to projects and investments, and although it is not particularly impressive, it is worth a walk. Here, you will find many of the baroque and neoclassical buildings in the city.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Avenida Paulista (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/RMZWwQCHLJeghX5x7\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) is probably the symbol of S\u00e3o Paulo, a bit like Fifth Avenue in New York City. Walking along Avenida Paulista and its surroundings, filled with restaurants, hotels, bars, and stores, is a good way to spend half a day.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/san_paolo_brasile.jpg\" alt=\"Foto in notturna a San Paolo in Brasile\" width=\"1110\" height=\"624\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>S\u00e3o Paulo.<\/em><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b><i>Where to sleep in S\u00e3o Paulo?<\/i><\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">I preferred the Vila Mariana neighbourhood as it was cheaper and close to a local friend. The hostel I stayed in is <\/span><\/i><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/br\/tapera-hostel.en.html?aid=1680713&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tapera Hostel<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. It is nice and clean. The neighbourhood is safe, and the hostel is a short walk from the metro. If you are looking for hostels that are more &#8220;social&#8221; and frequented by travelers, I recommend the area around <\/span><\/i><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/searchresults.en.html?district=6019&amp;aid=1680713&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Vila Madalena<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b><i>How to reach S\u00e3o Paulo?<\/i><\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">From S\u00e3o Paulo&#8217;s three bus terminals, it is possible to reach virtually all major cities in Brazil and even some international destinations. All terminals are directly connected to the metro. It is also worth looking at possible domestic flights as they are often cheaper than buses.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Paraty<\/b><\/h3>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It is a pretty little colonial coastal town about halfway between S\u00e3o Paulo and Rio de Janeiro. Founded by the Portuguese in 1667, it still preserves its cobblestone streets and numerous colonial buildings. Beautiful beaches and paradise islands also surround the town; in short, a great compromise between nature and culture!<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h4 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>What to do and see in Paraty<\/b><\/h4>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The historic center of the city is easily explored on foot, in any case, vehicles are not allowed. It is especially pretty in the evening when people and stalls line the streets.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Waterfalls<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There are numerous waterfalls in the forest surrounding Paraty. Many local facilities and agencies offer a jeep tour. As always, I preferred the do-it-yourself option. It is possible to reach Cachoeira do Tobog\u00e3 and Po\u00e7o do Tarzan by bus and then take a short walk through the forest.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tobog\u00e3 (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/QcYCY7dwegjh5CEp9\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) is probably the most famous waterfall in Paraty and, therefore, very crowded on weekends. <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/rZGBeGxrqFc)\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Watch the video<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to see what you can do at this waterfall!<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The bus to take is the one to Penha. It leaves from the bus station (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/QLhtTgNAaDacW81a6\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) and drops you off exactly at the beginning of the short path. On the other side of the road is a Cacha\u00e7a (a sugarcane-based liquor) distillery where a tour with a final tasting is offered (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/tiGoCw7bgQLoiRZo6\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Trindade<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It is a town near Paraty with some really nice beaches. Praia do Rancho (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/7th5HHKGXZLeEciy6\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) is the main beach with bars and restaurants; I advise continuing to Praia do Meio (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/jWB3tVkWr2qV2KPS8\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) or Praia do Cachada\u00e7o (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/iy7yuPRAQWHiuTkc8\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) along the path that goes through the jungle for some stretches. At the end of the trail, after crossing all the beaches just mentioned (about 45 minutes), there is a natural pool formed by giant rocks on one side and a forest overlooking the sea on the other. It&#8217;s a really nice place to relax and swim without the strong ocean currents (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/s5eSXzZCXrajQMmL8\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Buses to Trindade leave about every hour from the Paraty bus station.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/Trindade_piscina_naturale.jpg\" alt=\"Le piscine naturali di Trindade\" width=\"1110\" height=\"624\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>Trindade <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">natural pool<\/span>.<\/em><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Boat Tours<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There are plenty of options here. You can rent smaller or larger boats privately or by tour. You visit islands (more than 300 in the surrounding area) and isolated beaches that can only be reached by boat. Tours offer different itineraries and activities, including diving.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">I joined a couple of guys I had met a few days earlier who, through the hostel, had booked a tour with a &#8220;party boat&#8221; of sorts. I simply followed them in the morning, and after talking to the captain, I closed the deal for 100 BRL&#8230;with unlimited caipirinha!<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you feel like bargaining, my advice is to go directly to the harbor and negotiate with the captains of the many boats that leave each morning and choose what you are most comfortable with.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b><i>Where to sleep in Paraty?<\/i><\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/br\/girassol-hostel-by-katita.en.html?aid=1680713&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Girassol Hostel by Katita<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is recommended. Clean and cheap hostel, excellent location.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b><i>How to reach Paraty?<\/i><\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">From Rio de Janeiro, it is about 4\u00bd hours with several daily departures, with <\/span><\/i><a href=\"http:\/\/www.costaverdetransportes.com.br\/\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Costa Verde<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. From S\u00e3o Paulo it is 6-7 hours with <\/span><\/i><a href=\"http:\/\/www.reunidaspaulista.com.br\/\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">reunidas Paulista<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">From Ilha Grande, the cheapest way is via the ferry that leaves daily at 10:00 a.m. from Vila do Abra\u00e3o to Angra dos Reis (about an hour and a half, BRL 15). The suburban bus stop connecting Paraty from the pier is not far away (about an hour and a half, BRL 15). However, if you miss the ferry, numerous speed boats shuttle very frequently but are more expensive, about BRL 40. In any case, I recommend that you ask your hostel about schedules because they change frequently.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The more expensive but more practical and faster alternative is to use <\/span><\/i><a href=\"http:\/\/easytransferbrazil.com\/en\/\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">easytransfer<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">; The route Paraty &#8211; Ilha Grande includes minivan transfer with pick up directly at the accommodation plus speed boat to Ilha Grande or vice versa.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/edifici_coloniali_paraty.jpg\" alt=\"Edifici coloniali a Paraty\" width=\"1110\" height=\"624\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>Paraty.<\/em><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Ilha grande<\/b><\/h3>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As the name implies, it is a large island (almost 200 km\u00b2) located about 150 km south of Rio de Janeiro. The island was used as a lazaret for years and housed a maximum security prison, only closed in 1994. Thanks largely to this, the island has not seen any kind of urban development and still retains one of the most pristine Atlantic forests in the country.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There are no roads or private vehicles on the island, and almost 90 percent of its land is within a protected area; the largest settlement with a population of not even 2,000 people is Vila do Abra\u00e3o, where the port is located. In short, it is an almost untouched island paradise just a stone&#8217;s throw from civilization.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h4 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>What to do and see in Ilha Grande<\/b><\/h4>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">On the island, we find some of the most beautiful beaches in Brazil. Lopes Mendes was literally voted by Vogue as one of the ten most beautiful beaches in the world. But many others are just as spectacular and can be reached by the many well-mapped paths (found on <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/organicmaps.app\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">organic maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) that crisscross the island or by boats that serve as taxis.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Lopes Mendes Beach\u00a0<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It cannot be reached directly by boat, but one can get to nearby Pouso (BRL 15-25) and walk through the forest in about 20 minutes. For those who want to save money at all costs (like me), you can easily walk along the well-marked path from Vila do Abra\u00e3o shortly after the Che Lagarto hostel (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/r9ENwKMzjyDVawmQ6\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">), it\u2019s about 7 km.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/spiaggia_Lopes_mendes.jpg\" alt=\"La spiaggia Lopes Mendes a Ilha grande\" width=\"1110\" height=\"624\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>Lopes Mendes beach.<\/em><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Cachoeira Da Feiticeira Waterfall<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It is a nice waterfall located about 4km from Vila do Abra\u00e3o (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/ouGw6Z9UpphXcWUg7\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">); the well-marked path starts at the end of the beach in the opposite direction to the one leading to Lopes Mendes. From here, it is possible to reach several beaches not far away; I have been to Praia Da Feiticeira (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/PmhtAxWf8Ti4KN748\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) and it is beautiful. To return, you can either follow the path backward or rely on the boats that go back to Vila do Abra\u00e3o.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Pico do Papagaio<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Visible from Abra\u00e3o, it has this name because, when observed from certain angles, it resembles the head of a parrot with a beak. At 980 meters high, it is the second highest point on the island. Some companies offer a tour to see the sunrise from the top, but the path is easy enough to follow and is marked on <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/organicmaps.app\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">organic maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.alltrails.com\/trail\/brazil\/rio-de-janeiro--2\/t13-abraao-to-pico-do-papagaio?u=m&amp;sh=mxqbmj\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">All Trails<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). However, I recommend not doing it alone and ensuring you have a decent, charged flashlight, as it is completely dark in the forest.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Starting from Vila do Abra\u00e3o is about 2-3 hours, depending on the pace; the views are spectacular. Bring a sweatshirt because once you get to the top it is often windy and before the sun rises it can get cold, don&#8217;t forget water.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These listed so far are, of course, just some of the activities and beaches on the island; there are numerous boat tours, including the one to Lagoa Azul (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/gBJowpD7ckket1Af6\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) that seems popular, but also numerous other beaches that are not within walking distance. In conclusion, if you are looking for a beach near Vila do Abra\u00e3o, I recommend Praia do Morcego (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/FKeij4jxD7LSt3xF8\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\r\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/cima_picco_do_papagayo.jpg\" alt=\"Alba al Pico do Papagayo a Ilha grande\" width=\"1110\" height=\"624\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>Pico do Papagaio at sunrise.<\/em><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em><strong>Since I no longer run ads, if you found this article helpful, please consider purchasing your <a href=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/start-here\/safety\/travel-insurance\/\">travel insurance<\/a> through one of the links on this site. Doing so supports my work at no additional cost to you. For EU and UK residents, I recommend <a href=\"https:\/\/www.truetraveller.com\/?tag=4486\">True Traveller<\/a>. For everyone else, I recommend <a href=\"https:\/\/heymondo.com\/?utm_medium=Afiliado&amp;utm_source=ILBACKPACKER&amp;utm_campaign=PRINCIPAL&amp;cod_descuento=ILBACKPACKER&amp;ag_campaign=INPUT&amp;agencia=3e3e0e90cc3ad100e738962ea2e0b0be8d69\">HeyMondo<\/a>, which offers a 5% discount. Thank you for your support!<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b><i>Where to sleep in Ilha Grande?<\/i><\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/br\/hostel-refugio.en.html?aid=1680713&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hostel Ref\u00fagio<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> offers excellent value for money. The hostel is clean, breakfast is included, and the rooms have air conditioning. Recommended.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b><i>How to reach Ilha Grande?<\/i><\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The cheapest way to get to Paraty is via the suburban bus from Paraty to Angra dos Reis (about an hour and a half, BRL 15). Not far away, the ferry (BRL 15) leaves at 3:30 pm. In any case, I recommend asking your hostel for the schedule because it changes frequently. This is the only ferry of the day; if you miss it, numerous speed boats shuttle very frequently but are more expensive, about 40 BRL.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">From Rio de Janeiro, the cheapest way is to take the Costa Verde bus to Mangaratiba (37.50 BRL) at 5:00 and then take the 8:00 ferry to Vila do Abra\u00e3o, 15 BRL. This is the only ferry of the day; if you miss it, you can take one of the many speed boats that shuttle for BRL 30.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The more expensive but also more practical and faster alternative is to use <\/span><\/i><a href=\"http:\/\/easytransferbrazil.com\/en\/\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">easy transfer<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">; the cost is BRL 85 for the Paraty &#8211; Ilha Grande route and includes minivan transfer with &#8220;pick up&#8221; directly to the accommodation from Paraty plus speed boat to Ilha Grande or vice versa. Meanwhile, the Rio &#8211; Ilha Grande route costs BRL 95.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Rio de Janeiro<\/b><\/h3>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Rio is the second-largest city in Brazil and probably the best-known in the world, mainly for its carnival but also for its breathtaking scenery and some attractions such as the Cristo Redentor statue.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Called &#8220;Cidade maravilhosa&#8221; &#8211; literally &#8220;marvelous city&#8221; &#8211; by locals, it is truly unique, a city at times rich and modern, capable of hosting the Olympics, but at the same time surrounded by favelas, all set in a rather interesting geography, with rocky hills, lush forest, and beaches such as Copacabana and Ipanema.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h4 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>What to do and see in Rio de Janeiro<\/b><\/h4>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some people could easily spend weeks exploring Rio; I was there for a week and left feeling that I had not seen enough. Below, I list some of the activities I consider &#8220;must-do&#8221;, always with an eye on the budget.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Cristo Redentor\u00a0<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It is undoubtedly one of the city&#8217;s symbols and one of the most visited sites. The statue itself is not that impressive (I imagined it to be bigger), but the view of the city is, and despite the place being extremely touristy, I think a visit is worth it.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/vista_cristo_redentore.jpg\" alt=\"visto sui dois hermanos dal cristo redentore a Rio\" width=\"1110\" height=\"624\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>View from Cristo Redentor.<\/em><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>How to get to Cristo Redentor?<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There are three ways to reach Cristo Redentor: on foot, by minivan, or by train.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>On foot &#8211; <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A popular trail, especially among locals, starts from Parque Lage (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/1dmnvGokVEoKMiqs6\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">), about a two-hour walk uphill. The trail is marked and easy to follow, but unfortunately, robberies against tourists are all too frequent, so it is not recommended. The trail was officially closed to the public in the summer of 2017 and may still be closed.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>The minivan <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">(<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.paineirascorcovado.com.br\/official-van\/?lang=en\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">official website<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) &#8211;<\/span> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There are three pick-up points with departures every 15 minutes from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. The three points are: Pra\u00e7a do Lido in Copacabana, next to the Lago do Machado metro stop and Citt\u00e0 America in Barra da Tijuca. The price varies depending on the season, entrance to the Christ is included.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>By train &#8211; <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The &#8220;Trem do Corcovado&#8221; station (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/9i1JtWChTfPXFgF98\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) is easily accessible by cab or metro. The train leaves every 20-30 minutes and takes about 20 minutes, running daily from 8:20 am to 5:00 pm. Buy your ticket online at this <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/ticket.corcovado.com.br\/index.asp\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">site<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. The cost, including entrance to Christ, depends on the season.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The train is probably the nicest way to go up, but I would take the van if I was staying near the van pick-up points. Due to frequent robberies, I would avoid the trail or walking up following the same road as the minivans. Whatever your choice, try to arrive early in the morning and avoid weekends to avoid the crowds.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Pan de Azucar<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The P\u00e3o de A\u00e7\u00facar is another of Rio de Janeiro&#8217;s iconic sights; here you can have the best views of Rio de Janeiro at sunset. Going up is quite expensive as you have to take two cable cars. The first takes you up to Morro da Urca and the second to P\u00e3o de A\u00e7\u00facar proper for a total cost of about BRL 150.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To save money, I only took the second cable car and walked up Morro da Urca. The well-marked and maintained trail starts along the Cl\u00e1udio Coutinho track (on the right along the beach looking at the Morro da Urca), and it takes about half an hour to go up. If you want to save money at all costs, you can go up to Morro da Urca, from where you still have a nice view of the city, but having arrived at this point, I recommend taking the cable car and going all the way up to P\u00e3o de A\u00e7\u00facar.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">N.b. After watching the sunset (which I strongly recommend!) from P\u00e3o de A\u00e7\u00facar and returning to Morro da Urca, it was completely dark, and the access gate to the trail was closed. A guard opened it for me without any problem; just remember to bring a flashlight\/cell phone, though! Otherwise, go down by cable car.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/tramonto_pan_de_azucar.jpg\" alt=\"Tramonto a Rio de Janeiro visto dal pan de azucar\" width=\"1110\" height=\"624\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>Sunset at Pan de Azucar.<\/em><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Piedra de Gavea<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nice and fun hike to one of the best vantage points over the city (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.alltrails.com\/trail\/brazil\/rio-de-janeiro--2\/pedra-da-gavea?u=m&amp;sh=mxqbmj\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">All Trails<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). The ascent is not particularly challenging, even though it is completely uphill. Still, there is a short section where you have to climb up the almost vertical rock face for about ten meters. When I went, there was a man who had set up a fixed rope to help climb it safely. He was charging around 20 BRL. However, I also saw people attempting it in flip-flops (which I don&#8217;t recommend).<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How to get to the Pedra da G\u00e1vea?<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">From Copacabana\/Ipanema, you can take a direct bus to Pra\u00e7a Euvaldo and get off close to the trailhead. I took an Uber with some other guys on the way up and then returned by bus. The trail is safe as the beginning is within a fenced residential area with a control station at the entrance.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/pedra_de_gavea.jpg\" alt=\"Vista dalla pietra di gavea a Rio de Janeiro\" width=\"1110\" height=\"624\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>View from Piedra de Gavea.<\/em><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Dois Hermanos<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Another icon of Rio de Janeiro is the &#8220;Two Brothers,&#8221; two giant rock formations on the coast at the end of Ipanema. Climbing to the top of the larger one is much easier than it looks; the path is short and not too steep, and in less than an hour, you can easily reach the top, where the view is spectacular.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For many, the biggest &#8220;problem&#8221; is reaching the beginning of the trail because you must cross a pacified favela (pacified favelas are favelas with a constant police presence). The first step is to get to the entrance of the favela Vidigal (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/ujdceooqdjXtNszAA\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">), which is along the same bus line to go to the Pedra da G\u00e1vea or take a taxi\/Uber; from here, moto-taxis take you to the beginning of the trail for about 10 BRL, and while the ride is fun, it is advisable to choose a car for those who are faint of heart.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The motorcycle\/car ride to the trailhead takes only a few minutes, and in less than an hour, you will be at the top. I then walked down following the main road made a few hours earlier by motorcycle to save a couple of bucks and get a closer look at the favela. Alternatively, you can take another taxi. As already mentioned, the favela is pacified and, therefore, no more &#8220;dangerous&#8221; than other areas of Rio.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These listed so far were for me the best activities\/excursions done during my stay in Rio, but there is so much more to do: I recommend spending at least a day at the beach in Copacabana or Ipanema, visiting the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/kKoJLQFYPhwTm5PFA\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Museu do Amanh\u00e3<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (&#8220;Museum of Tomorrow,&#8221; free on Tuesdays), the spectacular Escadaria Selar\u00f3n (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/2SWP3aJUej4jX7ZB9\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">), the Metropolitan Cathedral de S\u00e3o Sebasti\u00e3o (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/QFRtfBfrKsJdcT2D6\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">), the Botanical Garden (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/scmyu6cvf1n6TYVy6\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">), the library Real Gabinete Portugu\u00eas de Leitura (<a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/AMAwtnRBfNu3xJ6L7\">Google Maps<\/a>) and the Maracan\u00e3 (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/z7N2QvtKHsszsWWD9\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). These are just a few of the many noteworthy sites in this city that could keep you busy for weeks.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/Museo_del_domani_Rio.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1110\" height=\"624\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b><i>Where to sleep in Rio de Janeiro?<\/i><\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Most travelers stay close to downtown and nightlife in Lapa\/Santa Teresa. I strongly recommend <\/span><\/i><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/br\/mambembe-hostel.en.html?aid=1680713&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">the Mambembe Hostel<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, one of the best hostels I have ever stayed in; it is not a party hostel but still very social, a good compromise. However, if you are looking for a classic party hostel where staying sober is not an option, check out <\/span><\/i><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/br\/books-hostel.en.html?aid=1680713&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Books Hostel<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If, on the other hand, you are looking for accommodation near the beaches, then check out the hostels around Copacabana and Ipanema; there are <\/span><\/i><a href=\"https:\/\/prf.hn\/click\/camref:1100l3LP6\/destination:https%3A%2F%2Fwww.hostelworld.com%2Fsearch%3Fsearch_keywords%3DRio%2Bde%2BJaneiro%252C%2BBrazil%26country%3DBrazil%26city%3DRio-de-Janeiro%26date_from%3D2018-09-13%26date_to%3D2018-09-14%26number_of_guests%3D1%26sort%3Drating%26direction%3Ddesc%26display%3Dmap\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">hundreds of options<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. If you are not interested in nightlife and beaches, I advise finding accommodation near a subway stop.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b><i>How to reach Rio de Janeiro?<\/i><\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Coming from Ilha Grande, the cheapest way is to take the 5:30 p.m. ferry to Mangaratiba, BRL 15, and then the 7:40 p.m. <\/span><\/i><a href=\"http:\/\/www.costaverdetransportes.com.br\/\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Costa Verde<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> bus, BRL 33.\u00a0<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The more expensive alternative, but also more practical and faster, is to use <\/span><\/i><a href=\"http:\/\/easytransferbrazil.com\/en\/\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">easy transfer<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">; the cost is BRL 95 for the Ilha Grande &#8211; Rio route and includes a minivan transfer directly to the accommodation in Rio plus a speed boat from Ilha Grande to Mangartiba.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">From Rio, there are direct bus and plane connections to all major cities in Brazil.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>B\u00fazios<\/b><\/h3>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Arma\u00e7\u00e3o dos B\u00fazios, often called simply B\u00fazios, is a town located on a peninsula that is only a 3-hour bus ride from Rio. It was unknown for years until the famous actress Brigitte Bardot visited it. The peninsula offers 23 different beaches of rare beauty.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h4 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>What to do and see in B\u00fazios<\/b><\/h4>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">B\u00fazios is primarily a beach destination and, as such, during the high season from November to March, which coincides with the best period for nightlife, it can get extremely crowded. The best time to visit is during April and May.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In addition to visiting the many beaches \u2014 those to the west are more suitable for swimming while those to the east are great for surfing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing \u2014 you can join boat tours offered by many local agencies to nearby islands, go diving, or enjoy the nightlife.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/buzios_spiaggia.jpg\" alt=\"Spiaggia a Buzios in Brasile\" width=\"1110\" height=\"625\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>B\u00fazios.<\/em><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b><i>Where to sleep in B\u00fazios?<\/i><\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">5to Elemento House is an excellent facility with a pool, kitchen, and breakfast included, just a short walk from the sea.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b><i>How to reach B\u00fazios?<\/i><\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">By bus from Rio, it takes about 3 hours; the 1001 company serves the route.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Brasilia<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bras\u00edlia is the capital city of Brazil and is also a classic &#8220;foundation city,&#8221; meaning it was created based on a specific political will and urban design. The basic structure of the city was built in only four years, from 1956 to 1960, and is shaped like a giant bird or airplane.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>What to do and see in Brasilia<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">I will preface this by saying that I have not been to Brasilia, which is now a UNESCO site but is said to be a spectacle of architecture that attracts thousands of curious tourists yearly. Some of the most spectacular buildings include the cathedral (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/qsmJUpiYD9JLXDZ39\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">), the Palace of Justice (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/ZdpjD4F97adJ1vm36\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">), the Palace of Congress (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/fV75xWKipPXymwgB8\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">), the Templo da Boa Vontade (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/Jjo5EwbdFns1Xvrj6\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">), the Santu\u00e1rio Dom Bosco (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/vPC6WCxdfkuXxV359\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">), the Centro Cultural Banco do Brasil (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/RQSb83fWVgEojRN16\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">), and the Cl\u00e1udio Santoro Theater (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/xG7Mh7qgB6NBqQ887\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). You can find a complete list <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/theculturetrip.com\/south-america\/brazil\/articles\/10-beautiful-buildings-in-brasilia-brazil-culture-guide\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">here<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/theculturetrip.com\/south-america\/brazil\/articles\/10-beautiful-buildings-in-brasilia-brazil-culture-guide\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">here<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is an interesting article.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/cattedrale_metropolitana_brasilia.jpg\" alt=\"La cattedrale metropolitana di Brasilia\" width=\"1110\" height=\"624\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>Brasilia C<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">athedral<\/span>.<\/em><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b><i>Where to sleep in Brasilia?<\/i><\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/br\/joy-hostel.en.html?aid=1680713&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Joy Hostel &amp; Su\u00edtes<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> seems to be among the few hostels in the city; the reviews are great.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b><i>How to reach Brasilia?<\/i><\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bras\u00edlia is centrally located and, therefore, is well served by a bus network connecting it to the rest of the country. Possible destinations include Campo Grande (Pantanal), about 20 hours away; S\u00e3o Paulo, 15 hours away; Rio de Janeiro, 18 hours away; and Belo Horizonte, 10 hours away. It is also worth considering domestic flights for faster travel.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Salvador<\/b><\/h3>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Founded in 1549, Salvador was the crossroads of the slave trade for years, and it was the capital of the Portuguese colony. It preserves a beautiful historic center named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In addition, Salvador&#8217;s carnival is said to be second only to Rio&#8217;s.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h4 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>What to do and see in Salvador<\/b><\/h4>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Cidade Alta, literally &#8220;high city,&#8221; is a fantastic collection of colonial buildings from the 17th and 18th centuries. The Pelourinho center is where Salvador&#8217;s most beautiful churches and buildings were built during the city&#8217;s golden age; Pra\u00e7a da S\u00e9 (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/UKGbG7opyXYchB7r5\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) and Terreiro de Jesus (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/mYi19RUsVqmaXatL7\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) are the two main squares.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">I recommend ending the day by walking along Ba\u00eda de Todos Santos (the city&#8217;s bay), perhaps taking the popular Elevador Lacerda (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/Uvia4TrwtKpLcgav7\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). This public elevator connects the lower part of the city to the upper part.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/centro_storico_salvador.jpg\" alt=\"Edifici colorati nel centro storico di Salvador in Brasile\" width=\"1110\" height=\"624\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>Salvador historic centre.<\/em><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Itacar\u00e9<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Small seaside town relatively close to Salvador, with great beaches and surfing conditions, a destination for many backpackers. I have not personally been there, but these guys whose blogs I follow speak highly of it. <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.alongdustyroads.com\/posts\/2016\/8\/10\/itacare-brazil-guide-beaches-things-to-do\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The article<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b><i>Where to sleep in Salvador?<\/i><\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/br\/hostel-galeria-13.en.html?aid=1680713&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hostel Galeria 13<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is a good hostel downtown. It is more expensive than competitors but nice and has extremely friendly staff.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b><i>How to reach Salvador?<\/i><\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You can reach all major Brazilian cities by bus, but given the distances and the low cost, I recommend looking at domestic flights.\u00a0<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Recife<\/b><\/h3>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Recife is one of the most important cities in northern Brazil. Founded by the Dutch at the mouth of a river, it is characterized by numerous bridges and canals, earning it the nickname of Brazilian Venice.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h4 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>What to do and see in Recife<\/b><\/h4>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Recife&#8217;s historic city center, located in the Recife Antigo district, is a classic example of colonial architecture and is worth visiting. I recommend exploring the area around Pra\u00e7a do Marco Zero (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/YwjPH6dDrMkckcBD7\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). Here, we find the city&#8217;s most important government buildings and the port, once the busiest in all the Americas.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">On the other hand, Zona Sul is the most modern part of the city. It was built along the coast and includes the Boa Viagem neighborhood, where the beach of the same name, the city&#8217;s most beautiful, is located (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/dHTAcaXMAJgxcMCK7\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). Given the modern buildings and the beautiful beach, this area is also called the Copacabana of the northeast.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/centro_recife.jpg\" alt=\"Racife antigo, centro storico di recife\" width=\"1110\" height=\"624\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>Recife historic centre.<\/em><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Olinda<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you are in Recife, Olinda is worth a day trip. In addition to hosting one of Brazil&#8217;s best carnivals, it is, in fact, a UNESCO site thanks to its many buildings dating from the 16th and 17th centuries. It is only 7 km from Recife, and connections are frequent.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Porto de Galinhas\u00a0<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It is a small seaside town not far from Recife, with spectacular beaches and natural pools (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/uCcGLpJkpmgDrLdf7\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) formed by the proximity of the coral reef to the coast. The area is also extremely popular with locals and can get crowded on weekends.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Porto de Galinhas is about 2 hours by bus from Recife; Cruzeiro is the company covering the route.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">N.b. The climate in the area is tropical with two distinct seasons; the rainy season from April to August is obviously to be avoided since the main activities are beach-related. The dry season is from September to March.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/Porto_de_Galinhas.jpg\" alt=\"la spiaggia di Porto de galinhas all'alba\" width=\"1110\" height=\"624\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>Porto de Galinhas.<\/em><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><em><b>Where to sleep in Recife?<\/b><\/em><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/br\/zili-experience-hostel-amp-camping-urbano.en.html?aid=1680713&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Zili Pernambuco &#8211; Hostel Pousada<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is a good hostel in the center of Recife Antigo.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><em><b>How to reach Recife?<\/b><\/em><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><em><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The long-distance bus terminal is located slightly outside the center but connected by the metro. Destinations like Fortaleza (12 hours) and Salvador (about 16 hours) are possible by bus. For all others, consider domestic flights.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Fortaleza<\/b><\/h3>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It is Brazil&#8217;s fifth-largest city in terms of population and, unfortunately, one of the most dangerous in the country. Many use it as a hub to reach nearby Jericoacoara and the Len\u00e7\u00f3is Maranhenses National Park. While it may not be the most beautiful city in Brazil, it is still worth a visit.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h4 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>What to do and see in Fortaleza<\/b><\/h4>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The main tourist area extends from downtown to the fish market. The waterfront on Avenida Beira Mar (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/BPKrPCb2pugTaT9B6\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) is probably the prettiest part of the city.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><strong>Canoa Quebrada<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\">This small town south of Fortaleza has been a &#8220;hippie&#8221; destination for years. It has recently seen a lot of development with the construction of numerous resorts but still remains a good option for those traveling on a budget, the beach with the spectacular cliff behind it is fascinating and the climate is great practically all year round (little rain between March and May) making it a beach destination to consider given also the accessibility from Fortaleza to which there are numerous bus connections every day.<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Jericoacoara<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A small paradise in northern Brazil, the fame of this place, which was just a small fishing village until twenty years ago, is well deserved. The fantastic beach, roads made only of sand, and an extremely relaxed atmosphere make it easy for travelers to get stuck here.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The entire area, which became a national park in 2002, now has many building and tourism-related restrictions to preserve it. Lighting in the streets is still prohibited by local law.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You can go almost anywhere by dune buggy. A popular excursion is to the freshwater lagoons around the village, costing about 30 BRL.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/budgettravelplans.com\/brazil\/jericoacoara\/fortaleza-to-jericoacoara-beach\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> you can find a detailed guide on how to reach Jericoacoara from Fortaleza.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/spiaggia_jericoacoara.jpg\" alt=\"La spiaggia di Jericoacoara\" width=\"1110\" height=\"624\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>Jericoacoara.<\/em><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Len\u00e7ois Maranhenses National Park<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Probably one of the most incredible places in the world, the park consists of white dunes that fill with rainwater during the rainy season (May &#8211; September), forming lagoons between one dune and another &#8211; a surreal landscape!<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The park can only be visited by organized tours in 4x4s. The best place from which to do this is the city of Barreirinhas or S\u00e3o Lu\u00eds further north (3-4 hours away). You can reach the area by private transport from Jericoacoara via Parna\u00edba (transfer offered by some local agencies). The method of making the journey by public transport is explained <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/planetaexo.com\/blog\/how-to-get-to-lencois-maranhenses\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">here<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. <\/span><\/p>\r\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/parco_lencois_maranhenses.jpg\" alt=\"Laguna al Parco nazionale lencois maranhenses\" width=\"1110\" height=\"624\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>Len\u00e7ois Maranhenses National Park.<\/em><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Manaus<\/b><\/h3>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Manaus is the main crossroads for visiting the Amazon rainforest. I haven&#8217;t personally visited the area, having already explored the Amazon rainforest in Peru, so I don&#8217;t have much information about it. Once you arrive in the city, I advise you to visit some local agencies, and evaluate them, perhaps by looking at some online reviews.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Usually, the packages offered in these situations involve staying 2-3 or more days in a lodge inside the forest, from where you can do a variety of activities, or the more expensive cruises on the Amazon.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b><i>How to reach Manaus?<\/i><\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There are no bus connections to other major cities in Brazil, but it is possible to travel north to Venezuela. There are frequent air connections to major cities in the country. By boat, reaching Bel\u00e9m (about five days), Tabatinga in Colombia (one week), Iquitos in Peru, and many other destinations along the river and its tributaries is possible.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Where to sleep in Manaus?<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/br\/local-hostel-manaus.en.html?aid=1680713&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Local Hostel Manaus<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> seems to be the best option in town.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/caimano_foresta_amazzonica.jpg\" alt=\"Caimano selvatico nella foresta amazzonica.\" width=\"1110\" height=\"624\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>Caiman in the Amazon Forest.<\/em><\/p>\r\n\r\n<div id=\"itinerari\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em><strong>Since I no longer run ads, if you found this article helpful, please consider purchasing your <a href=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/start-here\/safety\/travel-insurance\/\">travel insurance<\/a> through one of the links on this site. Doing so supports my work at no additional cost to you. For EU and UK residents, I recommend <a href=\"https:\/\/www.truetraveller.com\/?tag=4486\">True Traveller<\/a>. For everyone else, I recommend <a href=\"https:\/\/heymondo.com\/?utm_medium=Afiliado&amp;utm_source=ILBACKPACKER&amp;utm_campaign=PRINCIPAL&amp;cod_descuento=ILBACKPACKER&amp;ag_campaign=INPUT&amp;agencia=3e3e0e90cc3ad100e738962ea2e0b0be8d69\">HeyMondo<\/a>, which offers a 5% discount. Thank you for your support!<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n<div id=\"iti\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><\/div>\r\n<h2 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Possible itineraries in Brazil<\/b><\/h2>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To visit all the places I have mentioned so far probably requires at least two months, but below, I list possible itineraries of 2, 3, and 4 or more weeks. As with any country, there is no perfect itinerary given a time frame, and the vast distances and many different climates mean certain regions can only be visited at certain times of the year. So take what follows as inspiration and modify or create the itinerary according to your interests and budget!<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>15-day Brazil itinerary in the south of the country<\/b><\/h3>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This itinerary is designed for a trip to the country&#8217;s south, including cities, beaches, and nature. The months from June to September are to be avoided as it is &#8220;cold&#8221;, destinations such as Ilha Grande and especially Florianopolis, would not make much sense.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">N.b. Rio de Janeiro is the ideal departure and arrival airport, but S\u00e3o Paulo and Porto Alegre are also fine.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/itinerario_due_settimane_brasile.jpg\" alt=\"Mappa itinerario di due settimane nel sud del brasile\" width=\"786\" height=\"453\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Rio de Janeiro (3 nights)<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Day 1:<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Recover from jet lag with a relaxing day at the beach in Copacabana or Ipanema.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Day 2:<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cristo Redentor in the morning, Lapa in the afternoon (Escadaria Selar\u00f3n steps, S\u00e3o Sebasti\u00e3o Metropolitan Cathedral), Pan de Azucar for sunset.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Day 3:<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pedra de G\u00e1vea o Dois Hermanos.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Ilha Grande (3 nights)<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Day 4:<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Transfer to Ilha Grande in the morning. Relax at the beach in the afternoon.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Day 5:<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Day at Lopez Mendez beach.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Day 6:<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pico do Papagaio in the morning, Cachoeira Da Feiticeira Waterfall, a boat tour, or a relaxing day at the beach are all viable options.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Paraty (2 nights)<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Day 7:<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Transfer to Paraty in the morning. Enjoy the historical center in the evening.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Day 8:<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Day trip to Trindade, waterfalls, or boat tours.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Florian\u00f3polis (3 nights)<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Day 9:<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Long day by bus. Unfortunately, there are no direct buses, so you must go through S\u00e3o Paulo. Take a bus from Paraty to S\u00e3o Paulo in the late morning and then an overnight bus or plane from S\u00e3o Paulo to Florian\u00f3polis.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Day 10:<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There are 42 beaches in Florian\u00f3polis.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Day 11:<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">See above. Evening night bus to Foz do Igua\u00e7u or domestic flight.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Foz do Igua\u00e7u (1 night)\u00a0<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Day 12:<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Visit Iguazu Falls and Parque das Aves in the morning and early afternoon. Then, take a night bus to Campo Grande in the evening. Alternatively, you can take a bus to Dourados and then transfer to Bonito.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Pantanal (3 nights)<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Day 13-14-15:<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Time is tight to explore Pantanal, but by arranging something in advance or contacting a local agency, I&#8217;m sure you can get something done, although ideally, you should have a few extra days. On the last day, take a domestic flight to Rio or your departure airport.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>20-day Brazil itinerary in the south of the country<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">With 20 days to spare, I recommend following the two-week itinerary just described and spending a few extra days along the various stops. Other possible destinations to include could be B\u00fazios or crossing into neighbouring Paraguay from Foz do Igua\u00e7u and visiting the nearby ruins of Trinidad.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>15-day itinerary in Brazil in the north of the country<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This itinerary is designed for travelling exclusively in the north of the country. It is possible to follow this itinerary year-round, although March through June\/July tends to be particularly rainy in some areas. As always, my two-week itineraries have very tight time frames, and having a few extra days available would be ideal.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">N.b. Salvador is probably the cheapest departure and arrival airport, but Recife, Fortaleza, and Bel\u00e9m are also fine.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/due_settimane_brasile_nord.jpg\" alt=\"mappa itinerario di due settimane nel nord del Brasile\" width=\"786\" height=\"469\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Salvador (2 nights)<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Day 1:<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Recover from the jet lag and explore the historic center.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Day 2<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Enjoy the city in the morning and take the bus to Recife in the afternoon.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Recife (5 nights)<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Day 3:<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Explore the historical center in the morning and the Sul area in the evening.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Day 4:<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Visit Olinda during the day.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Day 5-6-7:<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Beach and sea in Porto de Galinhas. On the last day, return to Recife and take an overnight bus to Fortaleza.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Fortaleza (4 nights)<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Day 8:<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Day in Fortaleza.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Day 9:<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Transfer to Jericoacoara.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Day 10 &#8211; 11:<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Beach and sea in Jericoacoara.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">N.b. You could eliminate a few days or stops here and there to visit the nearby Len\u00e7\u00f3is Maranhenses National Park. With public transportation, it takes two days from Jericoacoara, while private transportation in a jeep takes 7 to 8 hours. Some agencies in Jericoacoara also offer complete transportation packages plus park tours, but these are not exactly low-cost options. Ideally, you should have a few extra days.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Manaus (3 nights)<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you visit the Len\u00e7ois Maranhenses National Park, consider flying from S\u00e3o Luis; otherwise, return to Fortaleza and fly to Manus.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Day 12-13-14:<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">3-day tour of the Amazon rainforest.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Day 15:<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Return home.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>20-day itinerary in Brazil in the north of the country<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As you may have already guessed, 20 days, in my opinion, is ideal to follow the itinerary just described, visiting the Len\u00e7\u00f3is Maranhenses Park and spending a few more days wherever you feel the need.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Itinerary of 4 weeks or more in Brazil<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">With four or more weeks available, you could combine the two itineraries just described; however, pay attention to the time of year, as some months in the north of the country are very rainy, and others in the south can be &#8220;cold.&#8221;<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Probably the ideal time window for such a trip is from August to October.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/ostello_florianopolis_brasile.jpg\" alt=\"Vista dal terrazzo dell'ostello a florianopolis\" width=\"1110\" height=\"624\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>Florian\u00f3polis.<\/em><\/p>\r\n\r\n<div id=\"how\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><\/div>\r\n<h2 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>How to get around Brazil<\/b><\/h2>\r\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Buses in Brazil<\/b><\/h3>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Buses are by far the most common and cheapest way to get around. They are usually of a very good standard, clean, and modern, and some even provide pillows, blankets, and food on board. Each city&#8217;s bus terminal (rodovi\u00e1ria) has connections to all other major cities in the region. All trips longer than 4 hours are covered by buses with on-board bathrooms.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There are different types of buses for long distances: &#8220;Leito&#8221; buses are the most comfortable and have only three rows of seats instead of 4, so they are extremely spacious and seats recline up to 160 degrees. Often, double-decker buses have the second floor with leito seats while the lower deck has semi-leito seats, which recline less and are narrower (classic rows of 4).<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">No one company covers the whole country, so to get an idea of schedules and routes, I recommend looking at sites like <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/brazilbustravel.com\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">brazilbustravel<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.busbud.com\/en\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Busbud<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. But remember that not all companies have an online presence. I often bought my tickets directly at the bus terminal.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Domestic planes in Brazil<\/b><\/h3>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The two main local companies are <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.latam.com\/it_it\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">LATAM<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.voegol.com.br\/pt\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Gol<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, which handle about 80 percent of domestic traffic alone. Other companies are <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.voeazul.com.br\/br\/pt\/home.html\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Azul<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.avianca.com.br\/en\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Avianca<\/span><\/a><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you book a bit in advance, I strongly recommend looking at internal flights; you will find very good prices. If you plan to take several internal flights, I suggest you do your math and consider doing an <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.brol.com\/airpass\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">air pass<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">; at the link, you will find all the relevant information.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Taxi in Brazil<\/b><\/h3>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The meter is used everywhere except for routes with a fixed price, as is often the case, especially from airports to the city center. For example, a ride from Rio&#8217;s Gale\u00e3o Airport to Copacabana costs BRL 63.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tourists, as always, fall prey to many tricks by taxi drivers, such as extending the route for no reason. It is always good to know how much a particular route should cost, perhaps by asking at your hostel\/hotel.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In large cities, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.uber.com\/en-IT\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Uber<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> works and is probably the cheapest and safest choice.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/Nave_rio_amazzoni.jpg\" alt=\"Nave da manaus a Leticia\" width=\"1110\" height=\"624\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>Boat on the Amazon River.<\/em><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Hitchhiking in Brazil<\/b><\/h3>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hitchhiking in Brazil should be done with extreme care, especially in large cities. Using a sign is strongly recommended; it would also be best to do it at a gas station.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n<div id=\"cost\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><\/div>\r\n<h2 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Backpacking Brazil: costs<\/b><\/h2>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How much does a trip to Brazil cost?<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Cost of accommodation in Brazil<\/b><\/h3>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A dormitory bed normally costs BRL 30-60, with breakfast often included. A double room in a hostel is also about 100-150 BRL. Small family-run hotels, also known as &#8220;pousadas,&#8221; cost, on average, 90-130 BRL.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Cost of Transportation in Brazil<\/b><\/h3>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Long-distance buses are convenient and cheap by European standards but not as much as in countries like Bolivia and Peru. They remain the most affordable option for medium to long distances, especially if you take night buses, so you can save the night in the hostel\/hotel.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It is still worth looking at domestic flights as they are sometimes cheap compared to many South American countries. For other countries, my advice is almost always to buy your ticket at the terminal by bargaining; from personal experience, this is not the case in Brazil; here, a bit like how it works in Europe, buying online offers the same rates, and the price at the bus terminal is rarely negotiable.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Cost of food in Brazil<\/b><\/h3>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Food in local restaurants is inexpensive; the daily menu with drinks can be found for about BRL 20, even in expensive cities like Rio. Higher-end restaurants expect you to pay at least 50-60 BRL.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/strade_paraty_brasile.jpg\" alt=\"Stand per le strade di Paraty di sera\" width=\"1110\" height=\"624\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>Street food in Brazil.<\/em><\/p>\r\n\r\n<div id=\"safe\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><\/div>\r\n<h2 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Backpacking Brazil: Safety<\/b><\/h2>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Is Brazil safe? In principle, yes, but you must be very careful in the big cities. <a href=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/start-here\/safety\/backpacking-safety\/\">With a little forethought and common sense<\/a>, you should have no problem, but I have met people who got robbed in broad daylight while walking up the road to Cristo Redentor in Rio (a touristy place, to say the least), and many others who had their phones and cash taken away while walking the streets of Lapa late at night. If something like this happens, do not resist for any reason.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Honestly, during my almost ten days in Rio, although I walked back to the hostel late at night, sometimes even alone, I never had any problems; it is also true, however, that I never went out with anything more than a bit of cash for which I would never have resisted. If, however, you feel unsafe, I recommend getting around as much as possible by taxi.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">That said, do not be afraid; Brazilians, for the vast majority, are hospitable and kind people; use common sense and you will not have any kind of problem.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><strong>Are you planning a trip to Brazil? Check out these posts:<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/start-here\/gear\/best-travel-cards\/\">The best cards for traveling<\/a><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/start-here\/gear\/packing-list\/\">What to bring on your trip<\/a><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\">Do you have any questions? Updated information? Feel free to leave a comment or message me on <a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/ilbackpacker\/\">Instagram<\/a>!<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em><strong>Since I no longer run ads, if you found this article helpful, please consider purchasing your <a href=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/start-here\/safety\/travel-insurance\/\">travel insurance<\/a> through one of the links on this site. Doing so supports my work at no additional cost to you. For EU and UK residents, I recommend <a href=\"https:\/\/www.truetraveller.com\/?tag=4486\">True Traveller<\/a>. For everyone else, I recommend <a href=\"https:\/\/heymondo.com\/?utm_medium=Afiliado&amp;utm_source=ILBACKPACKER&amp;utm_campaign=PRINCIPAL&amp;cod_descuento=ILBACKPACKER&amp;ag_campaign=INPUT&amp;agencia=3e3e0e90cc3ad100e738962ea2e0b0be8d69\">HeyMondo<\/a>, which offers a 5% discount. Thank you for your support!<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.paypal.com\/donate\/?hosted_button_id=QTBBEQQCE37GA\">For donations\/pizzas and virtual beers<\/a> \ud83d\ude42\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong><em>Did you like the post? Pin it!<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\r\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7561\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/backpacking_brazil.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"330\" height=\"495\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/backpacking_brazil.png 330w, https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/backpacking_brazil-200x300.png 200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 330px) 100vw, 330px\" \/>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Brazil is the largest country in South America and the fifth largest globally. It is a place where diversity reigns supreme: from metropolises such as S\u00e3o Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, which, as everyone knows, is home to the world&#8217;s most famous carnival, to the unspoiled nature of the Amazon rainforest, throwing in dreamy beaches, colonial cities, an unbridled passion for soccer, and incredible people\u2014in short, there is something for everyone!","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":5760,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[47],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-7678","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-brazil-en"],"acf":[],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7678","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=7678"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7678\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/5760"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=7678"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=7678"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=7678"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}