Great Brazil Itineraries: How Many Days to Spend?

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As the fifth-largest country in the world, Brazil is more than just its football team. Boasting breathtaking natural and historic wonders, this Latin American destination is home to balmy stretches of white sand beaches, lush jungles, and unique cultures that you will be hard-pressed to find anywhere else. Plus, it is a fun place to be since Brazilians love their festivals, dance, and music. For more ideas and suggestions, please scroll down.

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How much time should I spend in Brazil?

Brazil is a tropical destination filled with exciting carnivals
Spectacular night view of Rio de Janeiro in Brazil.

Brazil is vast, both in terms of its size and experiences. You can spend several months in the country and still go home feeling like you have barely scratched the surface. Aside from careful planning, the key to a great Brazilian holiday is to accept that you will not be able to see it all in one go. That said, you can plan a short Brazil trip lasting as little as four days. With less than a week to spare, you can explore the bustling city of Rio de Janeiro or party with the locals during the annual Carnaval.

However, three weeks is an ideal duration to explore Brazil. This should lend you plenty of time to tick off the country’s bucket-list destinations and gain a deeper appreciation of its cultures.

Brazil in 4 days

The sun drench city of Rio de Janeiro
Experience the chilled-out culture of Rio de Janeiro

Expect a four-day tour in Brazil to be jam-packed with adventure. Rio de Janeiro, with its iconic monuments and pockets of natural beauty, can be a good starting point for those looking for a short escapade. See the famous Christ the Redeemer, located atop Corcovado Mountain. Another viewpoint that you should not miss out on is the Sugarloaf Mountains, an incredible hiking destination. Once you are done with these places, spend the remainder of your trip exploring the expansive rainforest of Tijuca National Park, hiking through the winding trails of Ilha Grande, and kicking back on the sandy stretches of Copacabana and Ipanema.

Brazil in 10 days

Tourists at Iguazu Falls enjoying the waterfall
Bask in the grand scenery of Iguazu Falls

While ten days are not enough to cover Brazil in its entirety, it should give you a good taste of what the country has to offer. Start your ten-day Brazil itinerary from Rio de Janeiro. Spend a day or two there before taking a quick flight to the force of nature that is the Iguazú Falls. Comprising more than 275 falls, it is the largest waterfall system in the world and a truly grand sight to behold. Hop on a plane for one last time and fly to Sao Paulo, the commercial capital of the country that is also home to some of Brazil’s best art museums, rich architecture, and world-class culinary gems.

Brazil in 2 weeks

The colorful toucan in Brazil rainforest
The colorful toucan can be found in the Amazon rainforest

A two-week trip to Brazil should give you enough breathing room to do a more in-depth exploration of the country. Having explored Rio de Janeiro, you can take the shuttle bus to the coastal town of Paraty for some me-time on pristine beaches. Next, drive to Sao Paulo and savor its artistic delights. While there, do not forget to go on a guided stroll along Avenida Paulista, a nearly three-kilometer avenue that bisects the city. Finally, you can end your two-week Brazil itinerary in the breathtaking Iguazu Falls, or explore the diverse flora and fauna of Pantanal — the world’s largest tropical wetland.

Brazil in 3 weeks

Jericoacoara is on e of the best beaches in South America
Also known as 'Jeri', this beach rewards its visitors with stunning scenery

You are in for a grand adventure with three weeks to spend in Brazil. With 21 days at your disposal, you can explore plenty of cities and towns at a leisurely pace, with ample time to soak up Brazil’s rich culture as you go. Take in the sights and sounds of Rio de Janeiro and continue to the colorful colonial city of Salvador. Learn more about this city’s rich history before hopping on a flight to Manaus, your gateway to the Amazon Rainforest. Exploring this ecological wonder on foot, by boat, and with tour guides is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and on the bucket list of millions of people around the world. Spot unique plants and animals and feast your eyes on the lush canopy as you canoe down its rivers.

Planning a trip to Brazil?

If you need more help planning your trip or working out the best Brazil itinerary, don’t hesitate to contact one of our experts. If you’d like to book a package or join a group tour, check out our Brazil tours page for more ideas.

Published by David Lee, updated on September 7, 2022
Plan a trip to BrazilWe offer different tour types. You can also chat with a local travel specialist if you want a customized tour to Brazil.
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