7-Day Brazil Itinerary: Explore the Best of Brazil
Brazil is a vast, beautiful country that offers both cultural richness and breathtaking natural landscapes. In one week, you can get a taste of its vibrant cities, colonial past, and incredible nature. This itinerary is flexible, letting you soak in each place without feeling rushed, while still giving you an adventure-packed experience.
Day 1: Arrive in Rio de Janeiro
Kick off your trip by arriving in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil’s most famous city. Once you land, take time to settle in and relax at your accommodation.
When you’re ready, head to Copacabana or Ipanema Beach. Both are perfect for a leisurely walk or a sunset drink. Rio’s beaches are its heart and soul, and you’ll see locals playing soccer, volleyball, or simply enjoying life by the sea.
In the evening, try a local restaurant in the Lapa neighborhood. The area is known for its lively night scene and samba clubs, so it’s a great place to unwind and dive into Brazilian food and culture.
Day 2: Rio’s Icons – Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf Mountain
Start your day early with a visit to Christ the Redeemer (Cristo Redentor), the towering statue that’s an iconic symbol of Brazil. Take the funicular to the top of Corcovado Mountain for fantastic views over the city and surrounding landscapes.
Afterward, visit Sugarloaf Mountain (Pão de Açúcar). You’ll need to take two cable cars to reach the summit. The views are unbeatable, offering another stunning perspective of Rio.
In the afternoon, stroll through the charming district of Santa Teresa. The area has narrow, winding streets and is filled with art galleries, cafés, and old colonial houses. Make sure to visit the Selarón Steps, a colorful staircase made of tiles from around the world.
Day 3: Hiking in Tijuca National Park
Spend the day outdoors by exploring Tijuca National Park, one of the largest urban forests in the world. It’s an oasis of nature right inside the city. There are hiking trails for all levels, with the Pedra Bonita and Pico da Tijuca hikes offering incredible views.
If hiking isn’t your thing, you can also take a guided tour through the park. Some tours even include visiting hidden waterfalls. Either way, it’s a great way to see a different side of Rio.
End the evening with a quiet dinner in Rio’s Leblon neighborhood, well-known for its upscale dining spots.
Day 4: Fly to Foz do Iguaçu – Visit Iguazu Falls
In the morning, take a flight to Foz do Iguaçu, home of the world-famous Iguazu Falls. Once you arrive, drop off your luggage and head straight to the national park on the Brazilian side.
Spend the afternoon exploring the falls. The viewpoint from the Brazilian side provides panoramic views of the waterfalls that stretch over 2 kilometers. You can take several short walks along the trails to enjoy different perspectives of the mighty falls.
If you’re seeking more adventure, you can opt for a boat tour that takes you close to the base of the falls. Brace yourself—you’ll get drenched!
Day 5: Explore the Argentine Side of Iguazu Falls
Today, cross the border to Argentina to explore the other side of Iguazu Falls. The Argentine side offers a more intimate experience, allowing you to walk on trails that bring you within meters of the waterfalls.
Plan to take the upper and lower circuit walks, and don’t miss the Devil’s Throat (Garganta del Diablo), which is the most dramatic part of the falls. You can spend a good part of the day here, so bring plenty of snacks and water along.
Return to Foz do Iguaçu in the late afternoon, and relax for the rest of the evening.
Day 6: Fly to Salvador – Discover Afro-Brazilian Culture
Catch a morning flight to Salvador, Bahia, a city rich in Afro-Brazilian culture. Once you arrive, head to the Pelourinho, the historic center of Salvador. This colorful area is filled with colonial buildings, cobblestone streets, churches, and lively squares.
Spend the afternoon wandering through the narrow streets, visiting churches like the São Francisco Church, or stopping at one of the many local handcraft shops.
In the evening, make sure to catch a live performance of capoeira, a traditional Afro-Brazilian martial art that combines dance and music. Salvador is also the perfect place to taste some local Bahian cuisine like moqueca (a fish stew with coconut milk).
Day 7: Beaches of Salvador & Departure
On your last day, enjoy some time at one of Salvador’s nearby beaches. Praia do Flamengo and Itapuã Beach are popular options, just a short drive from the city. Both beaches offer soft sand, clear water, and plenty of beachside restaurants where you can have a final meal of fresh seafood.
Spend the rest of the day soaking up the sun, swimming, or simply relaxing before preparing for your return flight.
If you have time before your flight, you could also visit the Elevador Lacerda, which offers panoramic views of the city and the Bay of All Saints.
Final Thoughts
This 7-day itinerary gives you a taste of Brazil’s top highlights—its vibrant cities, natural wonders, and rich culture—in a balanced way. You’ll visit Rio’s iconic landmarks, witness the beauty of Iguazu Falls, and experience the Afro-Brazilian heartbeat of Salvador.
Of course, a week is never enough to fully explore all that Brazil has to offer. But you’ll leave with unforgettable memories and a strong desire to come back and discover even more.
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