Brazil — Attractions
Corcovado
The distinctive statue of Christ the Redeemer, arms spread to welcome the world, is the symbol of Rio de Janeiro and one of the seven New Wonders of the Modern World. It rests on top of Rio de Janeiro's Corcovado Mountain, 2,330ft (710m) above the beaches below, and is accessed via a miniature train that runs from the Cosme Vehlo District through the Atlantic rainforest to the foot of the statue. The train ride offers stunning vistas of Rio, and the view from the summit is breathtaking. Spread out beneath the statue is the Tijuca Forest, resplendent with attractions to enchant visitors in the cool of the rainforest among natural pools and waterfalls. There is for example the Mayrink chapel, which features murals painted by Candido Portinari, one of Brazil's best known modern artists, and the Museu do Acude, housing colonial furniture and a collection of china from the East India Company.
- Region/City Name
- Rio de Janeiro
- Address
- Corcovado Railroad Station. Rua Cosme Velho 513, Cosme Velho
- Phone Number
- (21) 2461 2700
- Website
- www.corcovado.com.br
- Hours
- Open daily, from 8.30am to 7pm. Train departs every 30 minutes
- Admission
- R$36 (adults), R$18 (children) for a round-trip on the train
Sugar Loaf
The summit of Rio's unique 1,299ft high (396m) belvedere, named Sugar Loaf because of its resemblance to the loaves of sugar used by the Portuguese colonists, can be reached by a two-stage cable car ride. The first stage takes visitors up 722ft (220m) to the Morro da Urca, where there is a restaurant, amphitheater, heliport and spectacular view of the Yacht Club and Botafogo Bay. The second stage takes one the rest of the way to the summit for a panoramic view of the city, and the whole of Copacabana beach. The Sugar Loaf cable car is a major icon of Rio's tourism.
- Region/City Name
- Rio de Janeiro
- Address
- Avenue Pasteur 520, Praia Vermelha
- Phone Number
- (21) 2546 8400
- Website
- www.bondinho.com.br
- Hours
- Open daily, from 8am to 7.50pm
- Admission
- Cable Car: R$44 (adults), R$22 (children 6-12)
Botanical Gardens
Rio's Botanical Gardens were created in 1808 by the Prince Regent of Portugal as a temporary site for acclimatising imported plants. Today it is home to some 2,600 species of plant life, particularly bromeliads and orchids. Color is added to the botanical treasures by a wealth of wildlife, such as Toucans, Tanagers, Marmoset monkeys and brilliantly colored butterflies.
- Region/City Name
- Rio de Janeiro
- Address
- Rua Jardim Botânico
- Phone Number
- (21) 2294 9349
- Hours
- Daily, from 8am to 5pm
- Admission
- R$4
Ipanema
Immortalised in a popular song, 'The girl from Ipanema', this part of Rio offers not only its legendary beach, but numerous excellent hotels, bustling nightlife, sophisticated shopping opportunities and quality restaurants, all within walking distance of each other. Ipanema (the name, incongruously, means 'bad water') is famous for setting fashion trends, particularly in the line of skimpy swimwear, and fashion fundis should look out for the famous bikini boutiques like Salinas , Blue Manand Bum-Bum .Also do not miss exploring the Rua Garcia D'Avila to shop for designer fashion, jewelry and furniture. Visit the Amsterdam Sauer Museum of Gems here for a workshop tour. There are numerous other streets in Ipanema to explore as well, including the attractive commercial street Visconde de Piraja that is lined with specialty shops, bars, restaurants and some of Rio's best boutiques. Visit the hippie fair at General Osorio Square on Sundays for wooden sculptures, handcrafts, exotic musical instruments and artworks.
- Region/City Name
- Rio de Janeiro
- Address
- Avenida Vieira Souto
Copacabana
This famous Rio beach neighborhood was just a small fishing village until a new highway changed the face of it sometime in the 1900s. The Copacabana Palace Hotel first opened its doors in 1923, and since then the area mushroomed with Neoclassical and Art Nouveau skyscrapers, penthouses and apartments. Visitors still flock, as they have always done, to the glamorous Palace Hotel, the place to be seen. Sometimes the visit is only to have tea or a meal at the famed Cipriani restaurant. The beach itself has white sand and calm water and is festooned with kiosks. It is a popular spot for beach sports like soccer and volleyball, and a good place to sunbathe. Copacabana beach is particularly popular on New Year's Day. According to tradition, visitors dress in white and congregate here to celebrate in their droves, counting more than two million people during this time.
- Region/City Name
- Rio de Janeiro
Angra dos Reis
This peninsula and group of 365 islands (one for each day of the year!) is a holiday playground that boasts 2,000 beautiful beaches and a natural wonderland of mountains, forests, waterfalls, lakes and secret coves. Visitors can take trips by schooner, yacht or motor launch to explore the delights of the area, particularly the main island, Ilha Grande. Fishing and diving are the favored activities for tourists, and on land there are hundreds of walking trails giving access to some of the less frequented beaches like Canto, Abraaozinho, Morcego and Grande das Palmas. The beaches of Aventureiro and Lopes Mendes are also popular with surfers.
- Region/City Name
- Rio de Janeiro
- Website
- www.angra-dos-reis.com
- Transport
- It can be easily reached from Rio by road in just over two hours, or accessed by bus with daily departures every hour from the Novo Rio Bus Station
Buzios Peninsula
Once the preserve of pirates and slave traders, the peninsula of Buzios, 105 miles (169km) north east of Rio de Janeiro, is today the haunt of the rich and famous who flock to the city (once a fishing village) to enjoy the twenty or so beaches in the vicinity. The peninsula was popularized by legendary movie star Brigitte Bardot in the 1960s, and her statue still graces the main street of Buzios, the Rua des Pedras. The peninsula is a sophisticated beach resort with a very active nightlife and fine restaurants. The west coast beaches offer calm, clear waters while the east coast ones, facing the open sea, are a little wilder and draw the surfers and water sports enthusiasts. Among the most popular beaches are Azeda Beach, Joao Fernandinho Beach (with several bars and known for its good seafood), Ferradura Beach, and Geriba beach, which is popular for surfing.
- Region/City Name
- Rio de Janeiro
- Website
- www.buziosonline.com.br
- Transport
- Buzios can be reached by road from Rio via the Rio-Niteroi toll bridge, or by bus from the Novo Rio Bus Station
The Meeting of the Waters
Where the dark waters of the Rio Negro join the lighter muddy waters of the Rio Solimoes a natural phenomenon is caused: the separate shades of water run side by side for a length of more than four miles (6km) without mixing. The separation is apparently caused by the difference in temperature, density and flow rate of the waters from each river: Rio Negro travels at about a mile (2km) per hour with a temperature of 72ºF (22ºC) while Rio Solimoes flows at between two and four miles (4-6km) per hour with a temperature of 82ºF (28ºC). This phenomenon has become a major tourist attraction in Brazil, best accessed by taking an hour's journey by boat from the floating docks in Manaus.
- Region/City Name
- The Amazon
Lake Janauari Ecological Park
This park, an hour by boat from Manaus on the Rio Negro, provides a taste of the Amazon experience with its 9,000 acres of dry land forests, lowlands and flooded forest (known as igapos). Day package trips are available from Manaus including lunch in a typical regional restaurant and a visit to the area's other main attraction, The Meeting of the Waters. Daytrippers are also taken on a canoe trip on the lakes and streams. Lake Janauari Park has abundant examples of the famous Amazon Victoria-Nympheaceae water lily that spreads its round leaves, measuring up to seven feet (two meters) in diameter, on still shallow waters. The flowers, which start out white and turn mauve then dark red, only last three days.
- Region/City Name
- The Amazon
Adolpho Ducke Botanical Garden
This vast forest reserve, covering more than 39 square miles (100 sq km) to the east of Manaus, provides tourists with the opportunity to discover what lies beneath the dense Amazon rainforest canopy. The park building complex hosts plant nurseries and an exhibition of the woods of Amazonas, as well as a library and restaurant. A network of trails has been created in the forest, and local youths are trained and employed as guides to direct visitors along the paths.
- Region/City Name
- The Amazon
Museu de Arte
A large concrete building supported on delicate pillars in the Avenida Paulista houses an important collection of Western art. This museum features the work of the great European artists from the last 500 years, and hosts visiting exhibitions. It is open every day and entry is free on Thursdays. The complex includes a reasonably priced restaurant.
- Region/City Name
- Sao Paulo
- Address
- Av. Paulista 1578
- Phone Number
- 3251 5644
- Hours
- Open Friday to Wednesday, from 11am to 6pm; and on Thursday from 11am to 8pm
- Admission
- R$15 (adults), Free for children under 9. Other concessions available.
Mercado Municipal
This imposing neo-Gothic style hall, dating from 1933, is the venue for a huge market, which sells local fruit, vegetables, cheese and other produce. The hall is noted for its gigantic stained-glass windows that depict scenes from the coffee plantations and other agricultural pursuits. The building is north of Praca da Se.
- Region/City Name
- Sao Paulo
- Address
- Rua da Cantareira 306
- Website
- www.mercadomunicipal.com.br/index.php?page=english
Iguaçu Falls
The Rio Iguaçu arises in the coastal mountains of Paraná and Santa Catarina and snakes west for 370 miles (600km) before it widens majestically and sweeps around a magnificent jungle stage, plunging and crashing in tiered falls at the border with Argentina and Paraguay. The Foz do Iguaçu (Iguaçu Falls) are over two miles (3km) wide and 262ft (80m) high and their beauty is unsurpassed. Their name, fittingly, comes from the Guarani Indian word meaning 'great waters'. The deep flowing waters of the river tumble down 275 falls (almost twice the height of Niagara Falls) the most famous of which is Devils Throat on the Argentinian border, dropping 230ft (70m). As well as taking in the stunning views, visitors can enjoy kayaking and other watersports in the river. The best time of year to visit is August to November, when there is least risk of floodwaters hindering the approach to the catwalks. The falls are surrounded by the Iguaçu National Park, a huge sub-tropical rainforest covering 135,000 acres that is home to thousands of different species of flora and birds including parrots and hummingbirds.
- Region/City Name
- Rio de Janeiro
- Transport
- The easiest way to get to the falls is by air, from Rio. Alternatively, you can take a bus via Curitiba
Estádio do Maracanã
Built over 50 years ago for use in the Soccer World Cup, this stadium is the largest on the continent, seating a crowd of over 95,000. The stadium is currently used to host the local soccer league games, and is the home of the Brazillian soccer team. The Maracana is also often used by international acts visiting Brazil as a performance venue - Madonna and Sir Paul McCartney being among the big names who have played here. Inside the ground is a Hall of Fame honoring soccer greats such as Pele, Roberto Dinamite, Romário, Valdo and Bebeto all of whom have been honored by having their footprints cast in the sidewalk. A guided tour will take you through the hall, where you can enjoy a display of historical photographs and a great panoramic view of the city.
- Region/City Name
- Rio de Janeiro
- Address
- Rua Professor Eurico Rabelo
- Hours
- Open daily, from 9am to 5pm
- Admission
- R$20
Tijuca Forest
The world's largest urban forest, Tijuca spans 7,900 acres (3,200ha) and sits on Rio's doorstep. Inside the forest, walkabouts will lead you past caves, waterfalls and an abundance of exotic and rare flora and fauna. Stop and enjoy a pre-packed lunch at the 'Mesa do Imperador', a massive granite picnic table. The famous Corovado Mountain and statue of Christ the Redeemer form part of the forest.
- Region/City Name
- Rio de Janeiro
- Address
- Alto da Boa Vista
- Hours
- Open daily, from 8.30am to 6.30pm
Rio Scenarium
The most festive spot in what is arguably the most festive city in the world. Rio Scenarium is a three-floor dance club dedicated to sultry, sweaty summer salsa nights. The decor is interesting, set in an abandoned antiques warehouse, and the club is adorned with movie props and other oddities. Live acts and dance events take place regularly at the club.
- Region/City Name
- Rio de Janeiro
- Address
- 20 Rua do Lavradio
- Phone Number
- (0)21 3147 9000
Sepetiba Bay
You can get away from the city for a day by taking a cruise to Sepetiba Bay and its many scenic tropical islands. The area has calm waters perfect for snorkeling, canoeing and swimming. Islands like Jaguanum, Pombeba, are known for prime nature watching with an abundance of birdlife and dolphins; and Papagaio, Saracura and Bernardo are better for aspiring fishermen. There are also a few good seafood restaurants scattered among the islands.
- Region/City Name
- Rio de Janeiro
Ibirapuera Park
The Parque do Ibirapuera is a large park near the center of Sao Paulo with many interest sights and activities, including a planetarium, Japanese pavilion, gymnasium, the Obelisk of Sao Paulo (a symbol of the Constitutionalist Revolution of 1932), and the Cicillo Matarazzo Pavilion, which houses the Museum of Contemporary Art and is the site for large events like the São Paulo Art Biennial and São Paulo Fashion Week. The park is home to many other museums, including the Air Force Museum, Folklore Museum, and Modern Art Museum. It also has jogging and walking trails, and a picturesque lake.
- Region/City Name
- Sao Paulo
- Address
- Avenida Pedro Alvares Cabral, Sao Paulo
- Phone Number
- (11) 5573-4180
- Website
- www.parquedoibirapuera.com
- Hours
- The park is open daily, from 5am to midnight.
Hopi Hari
Hopi Hari is an amusement park about 45 miles (72km) north of Sao Paulo, open since 1999. Sometimes described as Brazil's version of Disneyland, the park has several themed areas focusing on European and local culture, and rides including roller coasters, a haunted house, and a Ferris wheel. Taxis to Hopi Hari can be expensive, but there is a bus from Sao Paulo every morning. The park's hours of operation vary according to season, so call ahead or check their website (which is in Portuguese) before you go.
- Region/City Name
- Sao Paulo
- Address
- Rodovia dos Bandeirantes Km 72, Vinhedo, Sao Paulo
- Phone Number
- 0800 940 4674
- Website
- www.hopihari.com.br
- Admission
- R$ 69.90 at the gate, or R$ 56.70 through the website
Santa Teresa
Having had their fill of the beach, tourists seeking the 'real Rio de Janeiro' should make a beeline for one of its most iconic neighborhoods, Santa Teresa. Located at the top of Santa Teresa Hill, the neighborhood is famous for its winding, narrow streets, its 19th century architecture, and its amazing array of restaurants, bars, art galleries and eclectic shops. A popular area for local artists and tourists alike, Santa Teresa is best reached using its historic tram service, which runs up the hill from the centro(departing from Largo da Carioca square). The tram line - the only one of its kind in Rio - runs right through Santa Teresa's picturesque streets, offering magnificent views of the city below. By all accounts, no visit to Rio de Janeiro would be complete without spending at least some time in Santa Teresa.
- Region/City Name
- Rio de Janeiro
- Address
- On the top of Santa Teresa Hill, near the center of Rio de Janeiro
Rocinha
Even though Rio de Janeiro is one of the world's foremost vacation destinations, boasting great beaches, vibrant night-life, and significant tourist attractions, the hard fact is that it remains a city of gross economic inequality - as typified by its sprawling urban slums ( favelas), the largest of which, Rocinha, is home to nearly a quarter of a million people. For tourists looking to get to grips with this social reality, a local named Zezinho runs widely-celebrated tours of Rocinha, the favela in which he grew up. Those worrying that it will be a typical, voyeuristic, seen-from-the-back-of-a-Jeep experience can lay those fears to rest - the great strength of Zezinho's tours is that they are conducted out of love for Rocinha, and a desire to share its culture with foreigners. As Zezinho says, 'It is easy to see poverty or poorly built houses, but what I love about Rocinha is the spirit of the people' - and all who partake in his tour of Rocinha agree that it's a valuable, important, and humanising tourist experience.
- Region/City Name
- Rio de Janeiro
- Address
- Túnel Zuzu Angel, west of the Ipanema area, Rio de Janeiro
- Phone Number
- Advance booking essential call (21) 8221 5572
- Website
- www.favelatour.org
Football Museum
Even for non-football fans, São Paulo's Museu do Futebol (Football Museum) is a must-see tourist attraction. The Brazilian team has been unquestionably the most delightful and successful national team in football's history - and even though it's a well-worn cliché, the sport is supported with religious fervor, right across the country. The beauty of São Paulo's Football Museum, housed within the Pacaembu Stadium (which is itself an icon of the city), is that is takes a modern, interactive approach toward its exhibitions - with holographic displays, touch-screen information panels, and various other multimedia installations. Highlights of the museum include a 'History of the World Cup' section, and a display introducing Brazil's 25 greatest-ever players (the Anjos Barrocos, or 'Baroque Angels'). An appreciation of what football means to the country is vital to getting to grips with Brazilian culture - and São Paulo's Football Museum is a wonderful introduction in this respect. Be sure to budget at least two or three hours at the museum, as there's a lot to see.
- Region/City Name
- Sao Paulo
- Address
- Estádio do Pacaembu, Praça Charles Miller 1, São Paulo
- Phone Number
- (0)11 3664 3848
- Website
- museudofutebol.org.brý
- Hours
- Open Tuesday to Sunday, from 10am to 6pm (last admission at 5pm)
- Admission
- R$6 (adults), R$3 (card-carrying students and seniors)
Igreja São Francisco
The São Francisco Church and Convent - a high-baroque cathedral, located in downtown Salvador - quite simply, has to be seen to be believed. Funded by the sugar barons of the area, and built between 1708 and 1723, the cathedral's interior is literally plastered with gold - over 100 kilograms of it, mainly in the form of sculptured gilt woodwork; while precious stones and Sistine Chapel-like paintings adorn the ceiling, and elaborate gables, volutes and curlicues round out the baronial look. Best viewed in the evening, when - as the daylight dies - the cathedral begins to glow, the São Francisco Church and Convent is one of the most important examples of what is known as 'churrigueresque architecture' in the whole of Brazil, and should not be missed. Allow at least an hour to fully absorb the cathedral's considerable splendor.
- Region/City Name
- Salvador da Bahia
- Address
- Lgo Cruzeiro São Francisco
- Phone Number
- (0)71 3322 6430
Corcovado
The distinctive statue of Christ the Redeemer, arms spread to welcome the world, is the symbol of Rio de Janeiro and one of the seven New Wonders of the Modern World. It rests on top of Rio de Janeiro's Corcovado Mountain, 2,330ft (710m) above the beaches below, and is accessed via a miniature train that runs from the Cosme Vehlo District through the Atlantic rainforest to the foot of the statue. The train ride offers stunning vistas of Rio, and the view from the summit is breathtaking. Spread out beneath the statue is the Tijuca Forest, resplendent with attractions to enchant visitors in the cool of the rainforest among natural pools and waterfalls. There is for example the Mayrink chapel, which features murals painted by Candido Portinari, one of Brazil's best known modern artists, and the Museu do Acude, housing colonial furniture and a collection of china from the East India Company.
- Region/City Name
- Rio de Janeiro
- Address
- Corcovado Railroad Station. Rua Cosme Velho 513, Cosme Velho
- Phone Number
- (21) 2461 2700
- Website
- www.corcovado.com.br
- Hours
- Open daily, from 8.30am to 7pm. Train departs every 30 minutes
- Admission
- R$36 (adults), R$18 (children) for a round-trip on the train
Sugar Loaf
The summit of Rio's unique 1,299ft high (396m) belvedere, named Sugar Loaf because of its resemblance to the loaves of sugar used by the Portuguese colonists, can be reached by a two-stage cable car ride. The first stage takes visitors up 722ft (220m) to the Morro da Urca, where there is a restaurant, amphitheater, heliport and spectacular view of the Yacht Club and Botafogo Bay. The second stage takes one the rest of the way to the summit for a panoramic view of the city, and the whole of Copacabana beach. The Sugar Loaf cable car is a major icon of Rio's tourism.
- Region/City Name
- Rio de Janeiro
- Address
- Avenue Pasteur 520, Praia Vermelha
- Phone Number
- (21) 2546 8400
- Website
- www.bondinho.com.br
- Hours
- Open daily, from 8am to 7.50pm
- Admission
- Cable Car: R$44 (adults), R$22 (children 6-12)
Botanical Gardens
Rio's Botanical Gardens were created in 1808 by the Prince Regent of Portugal as a temporary site for acclimatising imported plants. Today it is home to some 2,600 species of plant life, particularly bromeliads and orchids. Color is added to the botanical treasures by a wealth of wildlife, such as Toucans, Tanagers, Marmoset monkeys and brilliantly colored butterflies.
- Region/City Name
- Rio de Janeiro
- Address
- Rua Jardim Botânico
- Phone Number
- (21) 2294 9349
- Hours
- Daily, from 8am to 5pm
- Admission
- R$4
Ipanema
Immortalised in a popular song, 'The girl from Ipanema', this part of Rio offers not only its legendary beach, but numerous excellent hotels, bustling nightlife, sophisticated shopping opportunities and quality restaurants, all within walking distance of each other. Ipanema (the name, incongruously, means 'bad water') is famous for setting fashion trends, particularly in the line of skimpy swimwear, and fashion fundis should look out for the famous bikini boutiques like Salinas , Blue Manand Bum-Bum .Also do not miss exploring the Rua Garcia D'Avila to shop for designer fashion, jewelry and furniture. Visit the Amsterdam Sauer Museum of Gems here for a workshop tour. There are numerous other streets in Ipanema to explore as well, including the attractive commercial street Visconde de Piraja that is lined with specialty shops, bars, restaurants and some of Rio's best boutiques. Visit the hippie fair at General Osorio Square on Sundays for wooden sculptures, handcrafts, exotic musical instruments and artworks.
- Region/City Name
- Rio de Janeiro
- Address
- Avenida Vieira Souto
Copacabana
This famous Rio beach neighborhood was just a small fishing village until a new highway changed the face of it sometime in the 1900s. The Copacabana Palace Hotel first opened its doors in 1923, and since then the area mushroomed with Neoclassical and Art Nouveau skyscrapers, penthouses and apartments. Visitors still flock, as they have always done, to the glamorous Palace Hotel, the place to be seen. Sometimes the visit is only to have tea or a meal at the famed Cipriani restaurant. The beach itself has white sand and calm water and is festooned with kiosks. It is a popular spot for beach sports like soccer and volleyball, and a good place to sunbathe. Copacabana beach is particularly popular on New Year's Day. According to tradition, visitors dress in white and congregate here to celebrate in their droves, counting more than two million people during this time.
- Region/City Name
- Rio de Janeiro
Angra dos Reis
This peninsula and group of 365 islands (one for each day of the year!) is a holiday playground that boasts 2,000 beautiful beaches and a natural wonderland of mountains, forests, waterfalls, lakes and secret coves. Visitors can take trips by schooner, yacht or motor launch to explore the delights of the area, particularly the main island, Ilha Grande. Fishing and diving are the favored activities for tourists, and on land there are hundreds of walking trails giving access to some of the less frequented beaches like Canto, Abraaozinho, Morcego and Grande das Palmas. The beaches of Aventureiro and Lopes Mendes are also popular with surfers.
- Region/City Name
- Rio de Janeiro
- Website
- www.angra-dos-reis.com
- Transport
- It can be easily reached from Rio by road in just over two hours, or accessed by bus with daily departures every hour from the Novo Rio Bus Station
Buzios Peninsula
Once the preserve of pirates and slave traders, the peninsula of Buzios, 105 miles (169km) north east of Rio de Janeiro, is today the haunt of the rich and famous who flock to the city (once a fishing village) to enjoy the twenty or so beaches in the vicinity. The peninsula was popularized by legendary movie star Brigitte Bardot in the 1960s, and her statue still graces the main street of Buzios, the Rua des Pedras. The peninsula is a sophisticated beach resort with a very active nightlife and fine restaurants. The west coast beaches offer calm, clear waters while the east coast ones, facing the open sea, are a little wilder and draw the surfers and water sports enthusiasts. Among the most popular beaches are Azeda Beach, Joao Fernandinho Beach (with several bars and known for its good seafood), Ferradura Beach, and Geriba beach, which is popular for surfing.
- Region/City Name
- Rio de Janeiro
- Website
- www.buziosonline.com.br
- Transport
- Buzios can be reached by road from Rio via the Rio-Niteroi toll bridge, or by bus from the Novo Rio Bus Station
The Meeting of the Waters
Where the dark waters of the Rio Negro join the lighter muddy waters of the Rio Solimoes a natural phenomenon is caused: the separate shades of water run side by side for a length of more than four miles (6km) without mixing. The separation is apparently caused by the difference in temperature, density and flow rate of the waters from each river: Rio Negro travels at about a mile (2km) per hour with a temperature of 72ºF (22ºC) while Rio Solimoes flows at between two and four miles (4-6km) per hour with a temperature of 82ºF (28ºC). This phenomenon has become a major tourist attraction in Brazil, best accessed by taking an hour's journey by boat from the floating docks in Manaus.
- Region/City Name
- The Amazon
Lake Janauari Ecological Park
This park, an hour by boat from Manaus on the Rio Negro, provides a taste of the Amazon experience with its 9,000 acres of dry land forests, lowlands and flooded forest (known as igapos). Day package trips are available from Manaus including lunch in a typical regional restaurant and a visit to the area's other main attraction, The Meeting of the Waters. Daytrippers are also taken on a canoe trip on the lakes and streams. Lake Janauari Park has abundant examples of the famous Amazon Victoria-Nympheaceae water lily that spreads its round leaves, measuring up to seven feet (two meters) in diameter, on still shallow waters. The flowers, which start out white and turn mauve then dark red, only last three days.
- Region/City Name
- The Amazon
Adolpho Ducke Botanical Garden
This vast forest reserve, covering more than 39 square miles (100 sq km) to the east of Manaus, provides tourists with the opportunity to discover what lies beneath the dense Amazon rainforest canopy. The park building complex hosts plant nurseries and an exhibition of the woods of Amazonas, as well as a library and restaurant. A network of trails has been created in the forest, and local youths are trained and employed as guides to direct visitors along the paths.
- Region/City Name
- The Amazon
Museu de Arte
A large concrete building supported on delicate pillars in the Avenida Paulista houses an important collection of Western art. This museum features the work of the great European artists from the last 500 years, and hosts visiting exhibitions. It is open every day and entry is free on Thursdays. The complex includes a reasonably priced restaurant.
- Region/City Name
- Sao Paulo
- Address
- Av. Paulista 1578
- Phone Number
- 3251 5644
- Hours
- Open Friday to Wednesday, from 11am to 6pm; and on Thursday from 11am to 8pm
- Admission
- R$15 (adults), Free for children under 9. Other concessions available.
Mercado Municipal
This imposing neo-Gothic style hall, dating from 1933, is the venue for a huge market, which sells local fruit, vegetables, cheese and other produce. The hall is noted for its gigantic stained-glass windows that depict scenes from the coffee plantations and other agricultural pursuits. The building is north of Praca da Se.
- Region/City Name
- Sao Paulo
- Address
- Rua da Cantareira 306
- Website
- www.mercadomunicipal.com.br/index.php?page=english
Iguaçu Falls
The Rio Iguaçu arises in the coastal mountains of Paraná and Santa Catarina and snakes west for 370 miles (600km) before it widens majestically and sweeps around a magnificent jungle stage, plunging and crashing in tiered falls at the border with Argentina and Paraguay. The Foz do Iguaçu (Iguaçu Falls) are over two miles (3km) wide and 262ft (80m) high and their beauty is unsurpassed. Their name, fittingly, comes from the Guarani Indian word meaning 'great waters'. The deep flowing waters of the river tumble down 275 falls (almost twice the height of Niagara Falls) the most famous of which is Devils Throat on the Argentinian border, dropping 230ft (70m). As well as taking in the stunning views, visitors can enjoy kayaking and other watersports in the river. The best time of year to visit is August to November, when there is least risk of floodwaters hindering the approach to the catwalks. The falls are surrounded by the Iguaçu National Park, a huge sub-tropical rainforest covering 135,000 acres that is home to thousands of different species of flora and birds including parrots and hummingbirds.
- Region/City Name
- Rio de Janeiro
- Transport
- The easiest way to get to the falls is by air, from Rio. Alternatively, you can take a bus via Curitiba
Estádio do Maracanã
Built over 50 years ago for use in the Soccer World Cup, this stadium is the largest on the continent, seating a crowd of over 95,000. The stadium is currently used to host the local soccer league games, and is the home of the Brazillian soccer team. The Maracana is also often used by international acts visiting Brazil as a performance venue - Madonna and Sir Paul McCartney being among the big names who have played here. Inside the ground is a Hall of Fame honoring soccer greats such as Pele, Roberto Dinamite, Romário, Valdo and Bebeto all of whom have been honored by having their footprints cast in the sidewalk. A guided tour will take you through the hall, where you can enjoy a display of historical photographs and a great panoramic view of the city.
- Region/City Name
- Rio de Janeiro
- Address
- Rua Professor Eurico Rabelo
- Hours
- Open daily, from 9am to 5pm
- Admission
- R$20
Tijuca Forest
The world's largest urban forest, Tijuca spans 7,900 acres (3,200ha) and sits on Rio's doorstep. Inside the forest, walkabouts will lead you past caves, waterfalls and an abundance of exotic and rare flora and fauna. Stop and enjoy a pre-packed lunch at the 'Mesa do Imperador', a massive granite picnic table. The famous Corovado Mountain and statue of Christ the Redeemer form part of the forest.
- Region/City Name
- Rio de Janeiro
- Address
- Alto da Boa Vista
- Hours
- Open daily, from 8.30am to 6.30pm
Rio Scenarium
The most festive spot in what is arguably the most festive city in the world. Rio Scenarium is a three-floor dance club dedicated to sultry, sweaty summer salsa nights. The decor is interesting, set in an abandoned antiques warehouse, and the club is adorned with movie props and other oddities. Live acts and dance events take place regularly at the club.
- Region/City Name
- Rio de Janeiro
- Address
- 20 Rua do Lavradio
- Phone Number
- (0)21 3147 9000
Sepetiba Bay
You can get away from the city for a day by taking a cruise to Sepetiba Bay and its many scenic tropical islands. The area has calm waters perfect for snorkeling, canoeing and swimming. Islands like Jaguanum, Pombeba, are known for prime nature watching with an abundance of birdlife and dolphins; and Papagaio, Saracura and Bernardo are better for aspiring fishermen. There are also a few good seafood restaurants scattered among the islands.
- Region/City Name
- Rio de Janeiro
Ibirapuera Park
The Parque do Ibirapuera is a large park near the center of Sao Paulo with many interest sights and activities, including a planetarium, Japanese pavilion, gymnasium, the Obelisk of Sao Paulo (a symbol of the Constitutionalist Revolution of 1932), and the Cicillo Matarazzo Pavilion, which houses the Museum of Contemporary Art and is the site for large events like the São Paulo Art Biennial and São Paulo Fashion Week. The park is home to many other museums, including the Air Force Museum, Folklore Museum, and Modern Art Museum. It also has jogging and walking trails, and a picturesque lake.
- Region/City Name
- Sao Paulo
- Address
- Avenida Pedro Alvares Cabral, Sao Paulo
- Phone Number
- (11) 5573-4180
- Website
- www.parquedoibirapuera.com
- Hours
- The park is open daily, from 5am to midnight.
Hopi Hari
Hopi Hari is an amusement park about 45 miles (72km) north of Sao Paulo, open since 1999. Sometimes described as Brazil's version of Disneyland, the park has several themed areas focusing on European and local culture, and rides including roller coasters, a haunted house, and a Ferris wheel. Taxis to Hopi Hari can be expensive, but there is a bus from Sao Paulo every morning. The park's hours of operation vary according to season, so call ahead or check their website (which is in Portuguese) before you go.
- Region/City Name
- Sao Paulo
- Address
- Rodovia dos Bandeirantes Km 72, Vinhedo, Sao Paulo
- Phone Number
- 0800 940 4674
- Website
- www.hopihari.com.br
- Admission
- R$ 69.90 at the gate, or R$ 56.70 through the website
Santa Teresa
Having had their fill of the beach, tourists seeking the 'real Rio de Janeiro' should make a beeline for one of its most iconic neighborhoods, Santa Teresa. Located at the top of Santa Teresa Hill, the neighborhood is famous for its winding, narrow streets, its 19th century architecture, and its amazing array of restaurants, bars, art galleries and eclectic shops. A popular area for local artists and tourists alike, Santa Teresa is best reached using its historic tram service, which runs up the hill from the centro(departing from Largo da Carioca square). The tram line - the only one of its kind in Rio - runs right through Santa Teresa's picturesque streets, offering magnificent views of the city below. By all accounts, no visit to Rio de Janeiro would be complete without spending at least some time in Santa Teresa.
- Region/City Name
- Rio de Janeiro
- Address
- On the top of Santa Teresa Hill, near the center of Rio de Janeiro
Rocinha
Even though Rio de Janeiro is one of the world's foremost vacation destinations, boasting great beaches, vibrant night-life, and significant tourist attractions, the hard fact is that it remains a city of gross economic inequality - as typified by its sprawling urban slums ( favelas), the largest of which, Rocinha, is home to nearly a quarter of a million people. For tourists looking to get to grips with this social reality, a local named Zezinho runs widely-celebrated tours of Rocinha, the favela in which he grew up. Those worrying that it will be a typical, voyeuristic, seen-from-the-back-of-a-Jeep experience can lay those fears to rest - the great strength of Zezinho's tours is that they are conducted out of love for Rocinha, and a desire to share its culture with foreigners. As Zezinho says, 'It is easy to see poverty or poorly built houses, but what I love about Rocinha is the spirit of the people' - and all who partake in his tour of Rocinha agree that it's a valuable, important, and humanising tourist experience.
- Region/City Name
- Rio de Janeiro
- Address
- Túnel Zuzu Angel, west of the Ipanema area, Rio de Janeiro
- Phone Number
- Advance booking essential call (21) 8221 5572
- Website
- www.favelatour.org
Football Museum
Even for non-football fans, São Paulo's Museu do Futebol (Football Museum) is a must-see tourist attraction. The Brazilian team has been unquestionably the most delightful and successful national team in football's history - and even though it's a well-worn cliché, the sport is supported with religious fervor, right across the country. The beauty of São Paulo's Football Museum, housed within the Pacaembu Stadium (which is itself an icon of the city), is that is takes a modern, interactive approach toward its exhibitions - with holographic displays, touch-screen information panels, and various other multimedia installations. Highlights of the museum include a 'History of the World Cup' section, and a display introducing Brazil's 25 greatest-ever players (the Anjos Barrocos, or 'Baroque Angels'). An appreciation of what football means to the country is vital to getting to grips with Brazilian culture - and São Paulo's Football Museum is a wonderful introduction in this respect. Be sure to budget at least two or three hours at the museum, as there's a lot to see.
- Region/City Name
- Sao Paulo
- Address
- Estádio do Pacaembu, Praça Charles Miller 1, São Paulo
- Phone Number
- (0)11 3664 3848
- Website
- museudofutebol.org.brý
- Hours
- Open Tuesday to Sunday, from 10am to 6pm (last admission at 5pm)
- Admission
- R$6 (adults), R$3 (card-carrying students and seniors)
Igreja São Francisco
The São Francisco Church and Convent - a high-baroque cathedral, located in downtown Salvador - quite simply, has to be seen to be believed. Funded by the sugar barons of the area, and built between 1708 and 1723, the cathedral's interior is literally plastered with gold - over 100 kilograms of it, mainly in the form of sculptured gilt woodwork; while precious stones and Sistine Chapel-like paintings adorn the ceiling, and elaborate gables, volutes and curlicues round out the baronial look. Best viewed in the evening, when - as the daylight dies - the cathedral begins to glow, the São Francisco Church and Convent is one of the most important examples of what is known as 'churrigueresque architecture' in the whole of Brazil, and should not be missed. Allow at least an hour to fully absorb the cathedral's considerable splendor.
- Region/City Name
- Salvador da Bahia
- Address
- Lgo Cruzeiro São Francisco
- Phone Number
- (0)71 3322 6430
Corcovado
The distinctive statue of Christ the Redeemer, arms spread to welcome the world, is the symbol of Rio de Janeiro and one of the seven New Wonders of the Modern World. It rests on top of Rio de Janeiro's Corcovado Mountain, 2,330ft (710m) above the beaches below, and is accessed via a miniature train that runs from the Cosme Vehlo District through the Atlantic rainforest to the foot of the statue. The train ride offers stunning vistas of Rio, and the view from the summit is breathtaking. Spread out beneath the statue is the Tijuca Forest, resplendent with attractions to enchant visitors in the cool of the rainforest among natural pools and waterfalls. There is for example the Mayrink chapel, which features murals painted by Candido Portinari, one of Brazil's best known modern artists, and the Museu do Acude, housing colonial furniture and a collection of china from the East India Company.
- Region/City Name
- Rio de Janeiro
- Address
- Corcovado Railroad Station. Rua Cosme Velho 513, Cosme Velho
- Phone Number
- (21) 2461 2700
- Website
- www.corcovado.com.br
- Hours
- Open daily, from 8.30am to 7pm. Train departs every 30 minutes
- Admission
- R$36 (adults), R$18 (children) for a round-trip on the train
Sugar Loaf
The summit of Rio's unique 1,299ft high (396m) belvedere, named Sugar Loaf because of its resemblance to the loaves of sugar used by the Portuguese colonists, can be reached by a two-stage cable car ride. The first stage takes visitors up 722ft (220m) to the Morro da Urca, where there is a restaurant, amphitheater, heliport and spectacular view of the Yacht Club and Botafogo Bay. The second stage takes one the rest of the way to the summit for a panoramic view of the city, and the whole of Copacabana beach. The Sugar Loaf cable car is a major icon of Rio's tourism.
- Region/City Name
- Rio de Janeiro
- Address
- Avenue Pasteur 520, Praia Vermelha
- Phone Number
- (21) 2546 8400
- Website
- www.bondinho.com.br
- Hours
- Open daily, from 8am to 7.50pm
- Admission
- Cable Car: R$44 (adults), R$22 (children 6-12)
Botanical Gardens
Rio's Botanical Gardens were created in 1808 by the Prince Regent of Portugal as a temporary site for acclimatising imported plants. Today it is home to some 2,600 species of plant life, particularly bromeliads and orchids. Color is added to the botanical treasures by a wealth of wildlife, such as Toucans, Tanagers, Marmoset monkeys and brilliantly colored butterflies.
- Region/City Name
- Rio de Janeiro
- Address
- Rua Jardim Botânico
- Phone Number
- (21) 2294 9349
- Hours
- Daily, from 8am to 5pm
- Admission
- R$4
Ipanema
Immortalised in a popular song, 'The girl from Ipanema', this part of Rio offers not only its legendary beach, but numerous excellent hotels, bustling nightlife, sophisticated shopping opportunities and quality restaurants, all within walking distance of each other. Ipanema (the name, incongruously, means 'bad water') is famous for setting fashion trends, particularly in the line of skimpy swimwear, and fashion fundis should look out for the famous bikini boutiques like Salinas , Blue Manand Bum-Bum .Also do not miss exploring the Rua Garcia D'Avila to shop for designer fashion, jewelry and furniture. Visit the Amsterdam Sauer Museum of Gems here for a workshop tour. There are numerous other streets in Ipanema to explore as well, including the attractive commercial street Visconde de Piraja that is lined with specialty shops, bars, restaurants and some of Rio's best boutiques. Visit the hippie fair at General Osorio Square on Sundays for wooden sculptures, handcrafts, exotic musical instruments and artworks.
- Region/City Name
- Rio de Janeiro
- Address
- Avenida Vieira Souto
Copacabana
This famous Rio beach neighborhood was just a small fishing village until a new highway changed the face of it sometime in the 1900s. The Copacabana Palace Hotel first opened its doors in 1923, and since then the area mushroomed with Neoclassical and Art Nouveau skyscrapers, penthouses and apartments. Visitors still flock, as they have always done, to the glamorous Palace Hotel, the place to be seen. Sometimes the visit is only to have tea or a meal at the famed Cipriani restaurant. The beach itself has white sand and calm water and is festooned with kiosks. It is a popular spot for beach sports like soccer and volleyball, and a good place to sunbathe. Copacabana beach is particularly popular on New Year's Day. According to tradition, visitors dress in white and congregate here to celebrate in their droves, counting more than two million people during this time.
- Region/City Name
- Rio de Janeiro
Angra dos Reis
This peninsula and group of 365 islands (one for each day of the year!) is a holiday playground that boasts 2,000 beautiful beaches and a natural wonderland of mountains, forests, waterfalls, lakes and secret coves. Visitors can take trips by schooner, yacht or motor launch to explore the delights of the area, particularly the main island, Ilha Grande. Fishing and diving are the favored activities for tourists, and on land there are hundreds of walking trails giving access to some of the less frequented beaches like Canto, Abraaozinho, Morcego and Grande das Palmas. The beaches of Aventureiro and Lopes Mendes are also popular with surfers.
- Region/City Name
- Rio de Janeiro
- Website
- www.angra-dos-reis.com
- Transport
- It can be easily reached from Rio by road in just over two hours, or accessed by bus with daily departures every hour from the Novo Rio Bus Station
Buzios Peninsula
Once the preserve of pirates and slave traders, the peninsula of Buzios, 105 miles (169km) north east of Rio de Janeiro, is today the haunt of the rich and famous who flock to the city (once a fishing village) to enjoy the twenty or so beaches in the vicinity. The peninsula was popularized by legendary movie star Brigitte Bardot in the 1960s, and her statue still graces the main street of Buzios, the Rua des Pedras. The peninsula is a sophisticated beach resort with a very active nightlife and fine restaurants. The west coast beaches offer calm, clear waters while the east coast ones, facing the open sea, are a little wilder and draw the surfers and water sports enthusiasts. Among the most popular beaches are Azeda Beach, Joao Fernandinho Beach (with several bars and known for its good seafood), Ferradura Beach, and Geriba beach, which is popular for surfing.
- Region/City Name
- Rio de Janeiro
- Website
- www.buziosonline.com.br
- Transport
- Buzios can be reached by road from Rio via the Rio-Niteroi toll bridge, or by bus from the Novo Rio Bus Station
The Meeting of the Waters
Where the dark waters of the Rio Negro join the lighter muddy waters of the Rio Solimoes a natural phenomenon is caused: the separate shades of water run side by side for a length of more than four miles (6km) without mixing. The separation is apparently caused by the difference in temperature, density and flow rate of the waters from each river: Rio Negro travels at about a mile (2km) per hour with a temperature of 72ºF (22ºC) while Rio Solimoes flows at between two and four miles (4-6km) per hour with a temperature of 82ºF (28ºC). This phenomenon has become a major tourist attraction in Brazil, best accessed by taking an hour's journey by boat from the floating docks in Manaus.
- Region/City Name
- The Amazon
Lake Janauari Ecological Park
This park, an hour by boat from Manaus on the Rio Negro, provides a taste of the Amazon experience with its 9,000 acres of dry land forests, lowlands and flooded forest (known as igapos). Day package trips are available from Manaus including lunch in a typical regional restaurant and a visit to the area's other main attraction, The Meeting of the Waters. Daytrippers are also taken on a canoe trip on the lakes and streams. Lake Janauari Park has abundant examples of the famous Amazon Victoria-Nympheaceae water lily that spreads its round leaves, measuring up to seven feet (two meters) in diameter, on still shallow waters. The flowers, which start out white and turn mauve then dark red, only last three days.
- Region/City Name
- The Amazon
Adolpho Ducke Botanical Garden
This vast forest reserve, covering more than 39 square miles (100 sq km) to the east of Manaus, provides tourists with the opportunity to discover what lies beneath the dense Amazon rainforest canopy. The park building complex hosts plant nurseries and an exhibition of the woods of Amazonas, as well as a library and restaurant. A network of trails has been created in the forest, and local youths are trained and employed as guides to direct visitors along the paths.
- Region/City Name
- The Amazon
Museu de Arte
A large concrete building supported on delicate pillars in the Avenida Paulista houses an important collection of Western art. This museum features the work of the great European artists from the last 500 years, and hosts visiting exhibitions. It is open every day and entry is free on Thursdays. The complex includes a reasonably priced restaurant.
- Region/City Name
- Sao Paulo
- Address
- Av. Paulista 1578
- Phone Number
- 3251 5644
- Hours
- Open Friday to Wednesday, from 11am to 6pm; and on Thursday from 11am to 8pm
- Admission
- R$15 (adults), Free for children under 9. Other concessions available.
Mercado Municipal
This imposing neo-Gothic style hall, dating from 1933, is the venue for a huge market, which sells local fruit, vegetables, cheese and other produce. The hall is noted for its gigantic stained-glass windows that depict scenes from the coffee plantations and other agricultural pursuits. The building is north of Praca da Se.
- Region/City Name
- Sao Paulo
- Address
- Rua da Cantareira 306
- Website
- www.mercadomunicipal.com.br/index.php?page=english
Iguaçu Falls
The Rio Iguaçu arises in the coastal mountains of Paraná and Santa Catarina and snakes west for 370 miles (600km) before it widens majestically and sweeps around a magnificent jungle stage, plunging and crashing in tiered falls at the border with Argentina and Paraguay. The Foz do Iguaçu (Iguaçu Falls) are over two miles (3km) wide and 262ft (80m) high and their beauty is unsurpassed. Their name, fittingly, comes from the Guarani Indian word meaning 'great waters'. The deep flowing waters of the river tumble down 275 falls (almost twice the height of Niagara Falls) the most famous of which is Devils Throat on the Argentinian border, dropping 230ft (70m). As well as taking in the stunning views, visitors can enjoy kayaking and other watersports in the river. The best time of year to visit is August to November, when there is least risk of floodwaters hindering the approach to the catwalks. The falls are surrounded by the Iguaçu National Park, a huge sub-tropical rainforest covering 135,000 acres that is home to thousands of different species of flora and birds including parrots and hummingbirds.
- Region/City Name
- Rio de Janeiro
- Transport
- The easiest way to get to the falls is by air, from Rio. Alternatively, you can take a bus via Curitiba
Estádio do Maracanã
Built over 50 years ago for use in the Soccer World Cup, this stadium is the largest on the continent, seating a crowd of over 95,000. The stadium is currently used to host the local soccer league games, and is the home of the Brazillian soccer team. The Maracana is also often used by international acts visiting Brazil as a performance venue - Madonna and Sir Paul McCartney being among the big names who have played here. Inside the ground is a Hall of Fame honoring soccer greats such as Pele, Roberto Dinamite, Romário, Valdo and Bebeto all of whom have been honored by having their footprints cast in the sidewalk. A guided tour will take you through the hall, where you can enjoy a display of historical photographs and a great panoramic view of the city.
- Region/City Name
- Rio de Janeiro
- Address
- Rua Professor Eurico Rabelo
- Hours
- Open daily, from 9am to 5pm
- Admission
- R$20
Tijuca Forest
The world's largest urban forest, Tijuca spans 7,900 acres (3,200ha) and sits on Rio's doorstep. Inside the forest, walkabouts will lead you past caves, waterfalls and an abundance of exotic and rare flora and fauna. Stop and enjoy a pre-packed lunch at the 'Mesa do Imperador', a massive granite picnic table. The famous Corovado Mountain and statue of Christ the Redeemer form part of the forest.
- Region/City Name
- Rio de Janeiro
- Address
- Alto da Boa Vista
- Hours
- Open daily, from 8.30am to 6.30pm
Rio Scenarium
The most festive spot in what is arguably the most festive city in the world. Rio Scenarium is a three-floor dance club dedicated to sultry, sweaty summer salsa nights. The decor is interesting, set in an abandoned antiques warehouse, and the club is adorned with movie props and other oddities. Live acts and dance events take place regularly at the club.
- Region/City Name
- Rio de Janeiro
- Address
- 20 Rua do Lavradio
- Phone Number
- (0)21 3147 9000
Sepetiba Bay
You can get away from the city for a day by taking a cruise to Sepetiba Bay and its many scenic tropical islands. The area has calm waters perfect for snorkeling, canoeing and swimming. Islands like Jaguanum, Pombeba, are known for prime nature watching with an abundance of birdlife and dolphins; and Papagaio, Saracura and Bernardo are better for aspiring fishermen. There are also a few good seafood restaurants scattered among the islands.
- Region/City Name
- Rio de Janeiro
Ibirapuera Park
The Parque do Ibirapuera is a large park near the center of Sao Paulo with many interest sights and activities, including a planetarium, Japanese pavilion, gymnasium, the Obelisk of Sao Paulo (a symbol of the Constitutionalist Revolution of 1932), and the Cicillo Matarazzo Pavilion, which houses the Museum of Contemporary Art and is the site for large events like the São Paulo Art Biennial and São Paulo Fashion Week. The park is home to many other museums, including the Air Force Museum, Folklore Museum, and Modern Art Museum. It also has jogging and walking trails, and a picturesque lake.
- Region/City Name
- Sao Paulo
- Address
- Avenida Pedro Alvares Cabral, Sao Paulo
- Phone Number
- (11) 5573-4180
- Website
- www.parquedoibirapuera.com
- Hours
- The park is open daily, from 5am to midnight.
Hopi Hari
Hopi Hari is an amusement park about 45 miles (72km) north of Sao Paulo, open since 1999. Sometimes described as Brazil's version of Disneyland, the park has several themed areas focusing on European and local culture, and rides including roller coasters, a haunted house, and a Ferris wheel. Taxis to Hopi Hari can be expensive, but there is a bus from Sao Paulo every morning. The park's hours of operation vary according to season, so call ahead or check their website (which is in Portuguese) before you go.
- Region/City Name
- Sao Paulo
- Address
- Rodovia dos Bandeirantes Km 72, Vinhedo, Sao Paulo
- Phone Number
- 0800 940 4674
- Website
- www.hopihari.com.br
- Admission
- R$ 69.90 at the gate, or R$ 56.70 through the website
Santa Teresa
Having had their fill of the beach, tourists seeking the 'real Rio de Janeiro' should make a beeline for one of its most iconic neighborhoods, Santa Teresa. Located at the top of Santa Teresa Hill, the neighborhood is famous for its winding, narrow streets, its 19th century architecture, and its amazing array of restaurants, bars, art galleries and eclectic shops. A popular area for local artists and tourists alike, Santa Teresa is best reached using its historic tram service, which runs up the hill from the centro(departing from Largo da Carioca square). The tram line - the only one of its kind in Rio - runs right through Santa Teresa's picturesque streets, offering magnificent views of the city below. By all accounts, no visit to Rio de Janeiro would be complete without spending at least some time in Santa Teresa.
- Region/City Name
- Rio de Janeiro
- Address
- On the top of Santa Teresa Hill, near the center of Rio de Janeiro
Rocinha
Even though Rio de Janeiro is one of the world's foremost vacation destinations, boasting great beaches, vibrant night-life, and significant tourist attractions, the hard fact is that it remains a city of gross economic inequality - as typified by its sprawling urban slums ( favelas), the largest of which, Rocinha, is home to nearly a quarter of a million people. For tourists looking to get to grips with this social reality, a local named Zezinho runs widely-celebrated tours of Rocinha, the favela in which he grew up. Those worrying that it will be a typical, voyeuristic, seen-from-the-back-of-a-Jeep experience can lay those fears to rest - the great strength of Zezinho's tours is that they are conducted out of love for Rocinha, and a desire to share its culture with foreigners. As Zezinho says, 'It is easy to see poverty or poorly built houses, but what I love about Rocinha is the spirit of the people' - and all who partake in his tour of Rocinha agree that it's a valuable, important, and humanising tourist experience.
- Region/City Name
- Rio de Janeiro
- Address
- Túnel Zuzu Angel, west of the Ipanema area, Rio de Janeiro
- Phone Number
- Advance booking essential call (21) 8221 5572
- Website
- www.favelatour.org
Football Museum
Even for non-football fans, São Paulo's Museu do Futebol (Football Museum) is a must-see tourist attraction. The Brazilian team has been unquestionably the most delightful and successful national team in football's history - and even though it's a well-worn cliché, the sport is supported with religious fervor, right across the country. The beauty of São Paulo's Football Museum, housed within the Pacaembu Stadium (which is itself an icon of the city), is that is takes a modern, interactive approach toward its exhibitions - with holographic displays, touch-screen information panels, and various other multimedia installations. Highlights of the museum include a 'History of the World Cup' section, and a display introducing Brazil's 25 greatest-ever players (the Anjos Barrocos, or 'Baroque Angels'). An appreciation of what football means to the country is vital to getting to grips with Brazilian culture - and São Paulo's Football Museum is a wonderful introduction in this respect. Be sure to budget at least two or three hours at the museum, as there's a lot to see.
- Region/City Name
- Sao Paulo
- Address
- Estádio do Pacaembu, Praça Charles Miller 1, São Paulo
- Phone Number
- (0)11 3664 3848
- Website
- museudofutebol.org.brý
- Hours
- Open Tuesday to Sunday, from 10am to 6pm (last admission at 5pm)
- Admission
- R$6 (adults), R$3 (card-carrying students and seniors)
Igreja São Francisco
The São Francisco Church and Convent - a high-baroque cathedral, located in downtown Salvador - quite simply, has to be seen to be believed. Funded by the sugar barons of the area, and built between 1708 and 1723, the cathedral's interior is literally plastered with gold - over 100 kilograms of it, mainly in the form of sculptured gilt woodwork; while precious stones and Sistine Chapel-like paintings adorn the ceiling, and elaborate gables, volutes and curlicues round out the baronial look. Best viewed in the evening, when - as the daylight dies - the cathedral begins to glow, the São Francisco Church and Convent is one of the most important examples of what is known as 'churrigueresque architecture' in the whole of Brazil, and should not be missed. Allow at least an hour to fully absorb the cathedral's considerable splendor.
- Region/City Name
- Salvador da Bahia
- Address
- Lgo Cruzeiro São Francisco
- Phone Number
- (0)71 3322 6430
Corcovado
The distinctive statue of Christ the Redeemer, arms spread to welcome the world, is the symbol of Rio de Janeiro and one of the seven New Wonders of the Modern World. It rests on top of Rio de Janeiro's Corcovado Mountain, 2,330ft (710m) above the beaches below, and is accessed via a miniature train that runs from the Cosme Vehlo District through the Atlantic rainforest to the foot of the statue. The train ride offers stunning vistas of Rio, and the view from the summit is breathtaking. Spread out beneath the statue is the Tijuca Forest, resplendent with attractions to enchant visitors in the cool of the rainforest among natural pools and waterfalls. There is for example the Mayrink chapel, which features murals painted by Candido Portinari, one of Brazil's best known modern artists, and the Museu do Acude, housing colonial furniture and a collection of china from the East India Company.
- Region/City Name
- Rio de Janeiro
- Address
- Corcovado Railroad Station. Rua Cosme Velho 513, Cosme Velho
- Phone Number
- (21) 2461 2700
- Website
- www.corcovado.com.br
- Hours
- Open daily, from 8.30am to 7pm. Train departs every 30 minutes
- Admission
- R$36 (adults), R$18 (children) for a round-trip on the train
Sugar Loaf
The summit of Rio's unique 1,299ft high (396m) belvedere, named Sugar Loaf because of its resemblance to the loaves of sugar used by the Portuguese colonists, can be reached by a two-stage cable car ride. The first stage takes visitors up 722ft (220m) to the Morro da Urca, where there is a restaurant, amphitheater, heliport and spectacular view of the Yacht Club and Botafogo Bay. The second stage takes one the rest of the way to the summit for a panoramic view of the city, and the whole of Copacabana beach. The Sugar Loaf cable car is a major icon of Rio's tourism.
- Region/City Name
- Rio de Janeiro
- Address
- Avenue Pasteur 520, Praia Vermelha
- Phone Number
- (21) 2546 8400
- Website
- www.bondinho.com.br
- Hours
- Open daily, from 8am to 7.50pm
- Admission
- Cable Car: R$44 (adults), R$22 (children 6-12)
Botanical Gardens
Rio's Botanical Gardens were created in 1808 by the Prince Regent of Portugal as a temporary site for acclimatising imported plants. Today it is home to some 2,600 species of plant life, particularly bromeliads and orchids. Color is added to the botanical treasures by a wealth of wildlife, such as Toucans, Tanagers, Marmoset monkeys and brilliantly colored butterflies.
- Region/City Name
- Rio de Janeiro
- Address
- Rua Jardim Botânico
- Phone Number
- (21) 2294 9349
- Hours
- Daily, from 8am to 5pm
- Admission
- R$4
Ipanema
Immortalised in a popular song, 'The girl from Ipanema', this part of Rio offers not only its legendary beach, but numerous excellent hotels, bustling nightlife, sophisticated shopping opportunities and quality restaurants, all within walking distance of each other. Ipanema (the name, incongruously, means 'bad water') is famous for setting fashion trends, particularly in the line of skimpy swimwear, and fashion fundis should look out for the famous bikini boutiques like Salinas , Blue Manand Bum-Bum .Also do not miss exploring the Rua Garcia D'Avila to shop for designer fashion, jewelry and furniture. Visit the Amsterdam Sauer Museum of Gems here for a workshop tour. There are numerous other streets in Ipanema to explore as well, including the attractive commercial street Visconde de Piraja that is lined with specialty shops, bars, restaurants and some of Rio's best boutiques. Visit the hippie fair at General Osorio Square on Sundays for wooden sculptures, handcrafts, exotic musical instruments and artworks.
- Region/City Name
- Rio de Janeiro
- Address
- Avenida Vieira Souto
Copacabana
This famous Rio beach neighborhood was just a small fishing village until a new highway changed the face of it sometime in the 1900s. The Copacabana Palace Hotel first opened its doors in 1923, and since then the area mushroomed with Neoclassical and Art Nouveau skyscrapers, penthouses and apartments. Visitors still flock, as they have always done, to the glamorous Palace Hotel, the place to be seen. Sometimes the visit is only to have tea or a meal at the famed Cipriani restaurant. The beach itself has white sand and calm water and is festooned with kiosks. It is a popular spot for beach sports like soccer and volleyball, and a good place to sunbathe. Copacabana beach is particularly popular on New Year's Day. According to tradition, visitors dress in white and congregate here to celebrate in their droves, counting more than two million people during this time.
- Region/City Name
- Rio de Janeiro
Angra dos Reis
This peninsula and group of 365 islands (one for each day of the year!) is a holiday playground that boasts 2,000 beautiful beaches and a natural wonderland of mountains, forests, waterfalls, lakes and secret coves. Visitors can take trips by schooner, yacht or motor launch to explore the delights of the area, particularly the main island, Ilha Grande. Fishing and diving are the favored activities for tourists, and on land there are hundreds of walking trails giving access to some of the less frequented beaches like Canto, Abraaozinho, Morcego and Grande das Palmas. The beaches of Aventureiro and Lopes Mendes are also popular with surfers.
- Region/City Name
- Rio de Janeiro
- Website
- www.angra-dos-reis.com
- Transport
- It can be easily reached from Rio by road in just over two hours, or accessed by bus with daily departures every hour from the Novo Rio Bus Station
Buzios Peninsula
Once the preserve of pirates and slave traders, the peninsula of Buzios, 105 miles (169km) north east of Rio de Janeiro, is today the haunt of the rich and famous who flock to the city (once a fishing village) to enjoy the twenty or so beaches in the vicinity. The peninsula was popularized by legendary movie star Brigitte Bardot in the 1960s, and her statue still graces the main street of Buzios, the Rua des Pedras. The peninsula is a sophisticated beach resort with a very active nightlife and fine restaurants. The west coast beaches offer calm, clear waters while the east coast ones, facing the open sea, are a little wilder and draw the surfers and water sports enthusiasts. Among the most popular beaches are Azeda Beach, Joao Fernandinho Beach (with several bars and known for its good seafood), Ferradura Beach, and Geriba beach, which is popular for surfing.
- Region/City Name
- Rio de Janeiro
- Website
- www.buziosonline.com.br
- Transport
- Buzios can be reached by road from Rio via the Rio-Niteroi toll bridge, or by bus from the Novo Rio Bus Station
The Meeting of the Waters
Where the dark waters of the Rio Negro join the lighter muddy waters of the Rio Solimoes a natural phenomenon is caused: the separate shades of water run side by side for a length of more than four miles (6km) without mixing. The separation is apparently caused by the difference in temperature, density and flow rate of the waters from each river: Rio Negro travels at about a mile (2km) per hour with a temperature of 72ºF (22ºC) while Rio Solimoes flows at between two and four miles (4-6km) per hour with a temperature of 82ºF (28ºC). This phenomenon has become a major tourist attraction in Brazil, best accessed by taking an hour's journey by boat from the floating docks in Manaus.
- Region/City Name
- The Amazon
Lake Janauari Ecological Park
This park, an hour by boat from Manaus on the Rio Negro, provides a taste of the Amazon experience with its 9,000 acres of dry land forests, lowlands and flooded forest (known as igapos). Day package trips are available from Manaus including lunch in a typical regional restaurant and a visit to the area's other main attraction, The Meeting of the Waters. Daytrippers are also taken on a canoe trip on the lakes and streams. Lake Janauari Park has abundant examples of the famous Amazon Victoria-Nympheaceae water lily that spreads its round leaves, measuring up to seven feet (two meters) in diameter, on still shallow waters. The flowers, which start out white and turn mauve then dark red, only last three days.
- Region/City Name
- The Amazon
Adolpho Ducke Botanical Garden
This vast forest reserve, covering more than 39 square miles (100 sq km) to the east of Manaus, provides tourists with the opportunity to discover what lies beneath the dense Amazon rainforest canopy. The park building complex hosts plant nurseries and an exhibition of the woods of Amazonas, as well as a library and restaurant. A network of trails has been created in the forest, and local youths are trained and employed as guides to direct visitors along the paths.
- Region/City Name
- The Amazon
Museu de Arte
A large concrete building supported on delicate pillars in the Avenida Paulista houses an important collection of Western art. This museum features the work of the great European artists from the last 500 years, and hosts visiting exhibitions. It is open every day and entry is free on Thursdays. The complex includes a reasonably priced restaurant.
- Region/City Name
- Sao Paulo
- Address
- Av. Paulista 1578
- Phone Number
- 3251 5644
- Hours
- Open Friday to Wednesday, from 11am to 6pm; and on Thursday from 11am to 8pm
- Admission
- R$15 (adults), Free for children under 9. Other concessions available.
Mercado Municipal
This imposing neo-Gothic style hall, dating from 1933, is the venue for a huge market, which sells local fruit, vegetables, cheese and other produce. The hall is noted for its gigantic stained-glass windows that depict scenes from the coffee plantations and other agricultural pursuits. The building is north of Praca da Se.
- Region/City Name
- Sao Paulo
- Address
- Rua da Cantareira 306
- Website
- www.mercadomunicipal.com.br/index.php?page=english
Iguaçu Falls
The Rio Iguaçu arises in the coastal mountains of Paraná and Santa Catarina and snakes west for 370 miles (600km) before it widens majestically and sweeps around a magnificent jungle stage, plunging and crashing in tiered falls at the border with Argentina and Paraguay. The Foz do Iguaçu (Iguaçu Falls) are over two miles (3km) wide and 262ft (80m) high and their beauty is unsurpassed. Their name, fittingly, comes from the Guarani Indian word meaning 'great waters'. The deep flowing waters of the river tumble down 275 falls (almost twice the height of Niagara Falls) the most famous of which is Devils Throat on the Argentinian border, dropping 230ft (70m). As well as taking in the stunning views, visitors can enjoy kayaking and other watersports in the river. The best time of year to visit is August to November, when there is least risk of floodwaters hindering the approach to the catwalks. The falls are surrounded by the Iguaçu National Park, a huge sub-tropical rainforest covering 135,000 acres that is home to thousands of different species of flora and birds including parrots and hummingbirds.
- Region/City Name
- Rio de Janeiro
- Transport
- The easiest way to get to the falls is by air, from Rio. Alternatively, you can take a bus via Curitiba
Estádio do Maracanã
Built over 50 years ago for use in the Soccer World Cup, this stadium is the largest on the continent, seating a crowd of over 95,000. The stadium is currently used to host the local soccer league games, and is the home of the Brazillian soccer team. The Maracana is also often used by international acts visiting Brazil as a performance venue - Madonna and Sir Paul McCartney being among the big names who have played here. Inside the ground is a Hall of Fame honoring soccer greats such as Pele, Roberto Dinamite, Romário, Valdo and Bebeto all of whom have been honored by having their footprints cast in the sidewalk. A guided tour will take you through the hall, where you can enjoy a display of historical photographs and a great panoramic view of the city.
- Region/City Name
- Rio de Janeiro
- Address
- Rua Professor Eurico Rabelo
- Hours
- Open daily, from 9am to 5pm
- Admission
- R$20
Tijuca Forest
The world's largest urban forest, Tijuca spans 7,900 acres (3,200ha) and sits on Rio's doorstep. Inside the forest, walkabouts will lead you past caves, waterfalls and an abundance of exotic and rare flora and fauna. Stop and enjoy a pre-packed lunch at the 'Mesa do Imperador', a massive granite picnic table. The famous Corovado Mountain and statue of Christ the Redeemer form part of the forest.
- Region/City Name
- Rio de Janeiro
- Address
- Alto da Boa Vista
- Hours
- Open daily, from 8.30am to 6.30pm
Rio Scenarium
The most festive spot in what is arguably the most festive city in the world. Rio Scenarium is a three-floor dance club dedicated to sultry, sweaty summer salsa nights. The decor is interesting, set in an abandoned antiques warehouse, and the club is adorned with movie props and other oddities. Live acts and dance events take place regularly at the club.
- Region/City Name
- Rio de Janeiro
- Address
- 20 Rua do Lavradio
- Phone Number
- (0)21 3147 9000
Sepetiba Bay
You can get away from the city for a day by taking a cruise to Sepetiba Bay and its many scenic tropical islands. The area has calm waters perfect for snorkeling, canoeing and swimming. Islands like Jaguanum, Pombeba, are known for prime nature watching with an abundance of birdlife and dolphins; and Papagaio, Saracura and Bernardo are better for aspiring fishermen. There are also a few good seafood restaurants scattered among the islands.
- Region/City Name
- Rio de Janeiro
Ibirapuera Park
The Parque do Ibirapuera is a large park near the center of Sao Paulo with many interest sights and activities, including a planetarium, Japanese pavilion, gymnasium, the Obelisk of Sao Paulo (a symbol of the Constitutionalist Revolution of 1932), and the Cicillo Matarazzo Pavilion, which houses the Museum of Contemporary Art and is the site for large events like the São Paulo Art Biennial and São Paulo Fashion Week. The park is home to many other museums, including the Air Force Museum, Folklore Museum, and Modern Art Museum. It also has jogging and walking trails, and a picturesque lake.
- Region/City Name
- Sao Paulo
- Address
- Avenida Pedro Alvares Cabral, Sao Paulo
- Phone Number
- (11) 5573-4180
- Website
- www.parquedoibirapuera.com
- Hours
- The park is open daily, from 5am to midnight.
Hopi Hari
Hopi Hari is an amusement park about 45 miles (72km) north of Sao Paulo, open since 1999. Sometimes described as Brazil's version of Disneyland, the park has several themed areas focusing on European and local culture, and rides including roller coasters, a haunted house, and a Ferris wheel. Taxis to Hopi Hari can be expensive, but there is a bus from Sao Paulo every morning. The park's hours of operation vary according to season, so call ahead or check their website (which is in Portuguese) before you go.
- Region/City Name
- Sao Paulo
- Address
- Rodovia dos Bandeirantes Km 72, Vinhedo, Sao Paulo
- Phone Number
- 0800 940 4674
- Website
- www.hopihari.com.br
- Admission
- R$ 69.90 at the gate, or R$ 56.70 through the website
Santa Teresa
Having had their fill of the beach, tourists seeking the 'real Rio de Janeiro' should make a beeline for one of its most iconic neighborhoods, Santa Teresa. Located at the top of Santa Teresa Hill, the neighborhood is famous for its winding, narrow streets, its 19th century architecture, and its amazing array of restaurants, bars, art galleries and eclectic shops. A popular area for local artists and tourists alike, Santa Teresa is best reached using its historic tram service, which runs up the hill from the centro(departing from Largo da Carioca square). The tram line - the only one of its kind in Rio - runs right through Santa Teresa's picturesque streets, offering magnificent views of the city below. By all accounts, no visit to Rio de Janeiro would be complete without spending at least some time in Santa Teresa.
- Region/City Name
- Rio de Janeiro
- Address
- On the top of Santa Teresa Hill, near the center of Rio de Janeiro
Rocinha
Even though Rio de Janeiro is one of the world's foremost vacation destinations, boasting great beaches, vibrant night-life, and significant tourist attractions, the hard fact is that it remains a city of gross economic inequality - as typified by its sprawling urban slums ( favelas), the largest of which, Rocinha, is home to nearly a quarter of a million people. For tourists looking to get to grips with this social reality, a local named Zezinho runs widely-celebrated tours of Rocinha, the favela in which he grew up. Those worrying that it will be a typical, voyeuristic, seen-from-the-back-of-a-Jeep experience can lay those fears to rest - the great strength of Zezinho's tours is that they are conducted out of love for Rocinha, and a desire to share its culture with foreigners. As Zezinho says, 'It is easy to see poverty or poorly built houses, but what I love about Rocinha is the spirit of the people' - and all who partake in his tour of Rocinha agree that it's a valuable, important, and humanising tourist experience.
- Region/City Name
- Rio de Janeiro
- Address
- Túnel Zuzu Angel, west of the Ipanema area, Rio de Janeiro
- Phone Number
- Advance booking essential call (21) 8221 5572
- Website
- www.favelatour.org
Football Museum
Even for non-football fans, São Paulo's Museu do Futebol (Football Museum) is a must-see tourist attraction. The Brazilian team has been unquestionably the most delightful and successful national team in football's history - and even though it's a well-worn cliché, the sport is supported with religious fervor, right across the country. The beauty of São Paulo's Football Museum, housed within the Pacaembu Stadium (which is itself an icon of the city), is that is takes a modern, interactive approach toward its exhibitions - with holographic displays, touch-screen information panels, and various other multimedia installations. Highlights of the museum include a 'History of the World Cup' section, and a display introducing Brazil's 25 greatest-ever players (the Anjos Barrocos, or 'Baroque Angels'). An appreciation of what football means to the country is vital to getting to grips with Brazilian culture - and São Paulo's Football Museum is a wonderful introduction in this respect. Be sure to budget at least two or three hours at the museum, as there's a lot to see.
- Region/City Name
- Sao Paulo
- Address
- Estádio do Pacaembu, Praça Charles Miller 1, São Paulo
- Phone Number
- (0)11 3664 3848
- Website
- museudofutebol.org.brý
- Hours
- Open Tuesday to Sunday, from 10am to 6pm (last admission at 5pm)
- Admission
- R$6 (adults), R$3 (card-carrying students and seniors)
Igreja São Francisco
The São Francisco Church and Convent - a high-baroque cathedral, located in downtown Salvador - quite simply, has to be seen to be believed. Funded by the sugar barons of the area, and built between 1708 and 1723, the cathedral's interior is literally plastered with gold - over 100 kilograms of it, mainly in the form of sculptured gilt woodwork; while precious stones and Sistine Chapel-like paintings adorn the ceiling, and elaborate gables, volutes and curlicues round out the baronial look. Best viewed in the evening, when - as the daylight dies - the cathedral begins to glow, the São Francisco Church and Convent is one of the most important examples of what is known as 'churrigueresque architecture' in the whole of Brazil, and should not be missed. Allow at least an hour to fully absorb the cathedral's considerable splendor.
- Region/City Name
- Salvador da Bahia
- Address
- Lgo Cruzeiro São Francisco
- Phone Number
- (0)71 3322 6430
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PlanetWare.com Travel Guides
- Brazil: Brazil | Brazil Hotels | Brazil Attractions
- Rio de Janeiro: Rio de Janeiro Hotels | Rio de Janeiro Attractions
- Sao Paulo: Sao Paulo | Sao Paulo Hotels | Sao Paulo Attractions
- Brasilia: Brasilia | Brasilia Hotels | Brasilia Attractions
