The traveller's guide to Brazil

Planning a trip to South America’s largest country? From its tropical rainforests and sandy beaches, to its wild nightlife - Brazil has it all! Here at SimCorner, we like to think of ourselves as travel addicts. And to help you plan your epic trip to Brazil, we’re going to fill you in on all things you should know to make it a trip of a lifetime.

Why travel to Brazil?

Dumb question, we know! But also a valid question you should ask yourself when choosing to travel anywhere in the world. There are a million reasons why Brazil is a great destination for your next adventure. It’s more than just post-card perfect beaches. It’s also home to lush jungles, colonial villages, amazing wildlife, gorgeous waterfalls, canyons and mountains and wealth of history. A trip to Brazil can be as adventurous or as relaxing as you want it to be - making it a travel destination for many.

Our 5 top things to see and do in Brazil

1. Rio De Janeiro

A trip to Brazil usually begins in Rio, one of the world’s most vibrant urban landscapes. The city is dramatically beautiful, situated between the jungle and the sea, with forest-topped mountains surrounding its edges. Rio holds the largest carnival celebration in Brazil, where the city comes to a standstill as thousands upon thousands of people swarm to the streets, to dance, drink, socialise, and party their hearts out.

2. Florianopolis

This beautiful island off of Brazil’s southern coast is regarded as the ideal place to enjoy stunning beaches, great surf, and mouthwatering seafood. If you’re up for a bit of adventure, the island also has an array of adventure sports to choose from. From paragliding, surfing, sand boarding and hiking to windsurfing across the picturesque beaches - fill your adrenaline junkie needs to your hearts content.

3. Amazonia National Park

It’s no surprise that a visit to Brazil and a visit to the Amazon go hand in hand. The Amazon rainforest is a remarkable place that accounts for more than half of the world’s remaining forests. The best way to experience the forest and catch a glimpse of the remote jungle animals is to book a guided tour that will take you the best parts of the amazon. Just make sure you pack some bug spray..

4. Fernando de Noronha

Said to be one of the most gorgeous place in not only Brazil, but South America, Fernando de Noronha is a group of 21 islands and a protected national marine park. Its volcanic archipelago will give you a new meaning to paradise. In order to protect its unique ecosystem, a maximum of 500 people are permitted to visit Noronha per day. So don’t worry about the island being filled with tourists. The limit not only preserves the islands natural beauty but the tourists who do visit can enjoy the peaceful and tranquil environment without crowds of people.

5. Iguazu Falls

Straddling the border between Brazil and Argentina lies the breathtaking Iguazu Falls. The waterfalls are a UNESCO World Heritage site and are higher than and twice as wide as Niagara falls. It’s a natural wonder to behold, and one you won’t want to miss when you’re in Brazil.

Brazil Travel Tips

1. If you want to experience Brazil’s exciting Carnival - the best time to visit is around February or March - the exact date differs year to year. However, bear in mind that the hotels and restaurants would be 4 times more crowded during this period.

2. On the other hand, if you’re wanting to avoid big crowds of tourists, travel to Brazil during it’s off season, which is generally from April through to November.

3. If you’re planning to see more than one city in Brazil, buying an air pass may be a good option for you. It’s only for travellers and can only be bought before entering Brazil. Through the airpass, 5 domestic flights would amount to the price of only 1 or 2 flights booked directly from other airline sites! You can buy it from your travel agent, or online at www.brol.com. Check out their passes and see which one is best for you.

4. Pack some mosquito repellent. Mosquitos are ruthless in some areas of Brazil and some come bearing harmful diseases such as dengue, zika, and chikunguny. Avoid the drama by using mosquito repellant every day and before going to bed. If the Amazon Forest is on your list of places to go in Brazil (and it should be), getting vaccines is highly recommended. The essential vaccines to get fight against Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Yellow Fever, and Malaria.

For more helpful travel tips and ideas, head to our SimCorner Blog.