Just mention that you’re planning a trip to Brazil, and the idea will instantly conjure up images of sunny beaches and the infectious rhythm of a samba beat or the sultry melodies of bossa nova.
From the iconic yellow and blue kit of its national soccer team, the flamboyant outfits of the Carnaval dancers, and the famously fruity headpiece of Carmen Miranda, Brazil’s cultural impression on the world has been wide-reaching.
But as a Brazilian-American it always surprises me how little others know about the vast country’s many diverse regions and day-to-day customs.
I grew up snacking on pão de queijo (cheese bread) and brigadeiros (chocolate truffles), and I’ve been visiting Brazil since I was a kid. Now I return regularly to visit family and explore new regions.
There are endless ways to experience Brazil, but these are the top things to know if you want to plan a trip to Brazil that goes above and beyond.
1. There’s more to the outdoors than beaches and jungles
The energy of Copacabana Beach and the alluring biodiversity of the Amazon Rainforest may have captured the world’s attention, but that’s really the tip of the iceberg when it comes to Brazil’s natural beauty.
Adventurous nature lovers will find Brazil to be a treasure trove with a wealth of geographical diversity.
In the northeastern regions, you can explore the massive dunes and natural swimming pools in the states of Ceará and Maranhão, or venture to the landlocked state of Tocantins where a vast savannah is home to the remarkably unique park of Jalapão.
National parks like Chapada Diamantina and Chapada dos Veadeiros stun visitors with their mountain vistas and waterfalls, not to mention the staggering power of Iguaçu, one of the world’s largest waterfalls made up of over 200 cascades.
2. Brazil really is a cultural melting pot
The US is not the only country to lay claim to being a cultural stew. Brazilian culture melds together the customs and traditions of Indigenous, Afro-Brazilan and its many migrant communities.
In São Paulo, the neighborhood of Liberdade is home to a strong Japanese-Brazilian community; in southern states, you’ll notice the visible influence of German immigrants in the region’s cross-timbered houses.
Even the street food in Brazil has Lebanese and Italian roots, with kibbeh (fried bulgar wheat and meatballs) and pizza being some of the most popular…
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