Destination: Brazil
LONELY PLANET'S OFFICIAL ITINERARY INFORMATION
Itinerary: Brazil for the Completist
THREE MONTHS
This 12,500km (!) trip takes you on a loop, hitting the major attractions in Brazil. To really do the country justice, you'll need six months or a year, though with strategically placed flights you'll be able to cover more ground in around three months.
On this epic trip you'll experience the rhythm-infused towns of the Northeast, the jungles of the Amazon and the biodiversity of the Pantanal, with beaches, tropical islands and vibrant colonial towns thrown in the mix.
From Sao Paulo, head east to Rio, stopping at glorious beaches such as Ubatuba, Trindade and Paraty-Mirim before reaching Rio.
From there head north, stopping in the pretty mountain towns of Ouro Preto and Diamantina. The architectural masterpiece that is Brasilia is next, and lies near the Parque Nacional da Chapada dos Veadeiros, a fantastic wilderness area.
On the way to Bahia, explore the Parque Nacional da Chapada Diamantina before reaching Salvador, one of Brazil's liveliest towns. Further up the coast is beautiful Olinda, one of Brazil's prettiest towns. From neighboring Recife, fly out to the spectacular island of Fernando de Noronha.
Back on the mainland, travel the north coast, stopping in Jericoacoara en route to the surreal dunes in the Parque Nacional dos Lencois Maran-henses, a stark contrast to the beauty of nearby Sao Luis.
West lies Belem, a culturally rich city near the lush island of Ilha de Marajo. Catch a boat up the Amazon to Manaus, where you can arrange jungle treks.
From Manaus, head to Bonito, and experience the region's waterfalls, crystal-clear rivers, lush forests and subterranean caves. Go south to the awe-inspiring Iguacu Falls, with waterfalls straddling three countries. Before completing the circle, explore the secluded beaches and charming Germanic towns around Florianopolis.
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