Destination: Brazil

LONELY PLANET'S OFFICIAL ITINERARY INFORMATION

Itinerary: Discovering the South

THREE WEEKS

This 1600km trip begins in Curitiba, and travels overland to Foz do Iguacu. Along the way, you'll visit forested islands, mountainous national parks, historic missions and idyllic beaches before reaching the massive waterfalls. From Foz do Iguacu, catch a bus or plane back to Rio or Sao Paulo.

One of Brazil's most overlooked regions has gorgeous islands and beaches, unexplored national parks and fascinating towns with largely European roots.

Start your journey in Curitiba, a clean, cosmopolitan city with a youthful air. From there take the scenic train ride to Parque Estadual Marumbi, a wonderful national park with stunning views and excellent trails. Continue by train to Paranagua. This colorful town lies near the charming Ilha do Mel, a forest-covered island with fine trails and pretty beaches. From there you can catch a boat to Ilha do Superagui, set in national park with pristine beaches, and much wildlife living among its mangrove forests and salt marshes.

Next go to Joinville, a pleasant town straight out of Bavaria. Catch a boat from there to historic Sao Francisco do Sul. Florianopolis is next. There you can soak up the pleasant air of its colonial district before venturing onto Ilha de Santa Catarina, an island of beaches, lagoons and tiny fishing villages.

South of Florianopolis is Praia da Rosa, one of Brazil's most glorious beaches - and a great spot for sighting whales off-shore. On into Rio Grande do Sul, you'll reach the Parque Nacional de Aparados da Serra, one of Brazil's natural wonders, featuring deep canyons, waterfalls and fantastic hiking and climbing.

Head east to Santo Angelo, the gateway to the Jesuit missions. From there you can visit Sao Miguel das Missoes, or head across the border to missions in Paraguay or Argentina. The last stop is Foz do Iguacu, from where you can visit the Iguacu Falls, some of the most striking waterfalls on the planet.

Travelling to Brazil?
Lonely Planet recommends World Nomads Travel insurance