Few cities can rival Rio’s natural beauty. Atlantic waves crash at the foot of jungle-cloaked mountains and golden beaches stretch for miles. Steep climbs are rewarded with memory-etching miradors, but a few incredible lookouts top the list. Take a train through Atlantic forest to stand at the holy feet of Christ the Redeemer, whose arms embrace the fiercely catholic city or jump on board a cable car to access Pão de Açucar (the Sugar Loaf) on the water’s edge.
Of all the hill-top neighbourhoods, breezy, boho artist enclave Santa Teresa has the most to offer tourists. Spend time sitting in cafés or browsing craft stores, then take a ride of Rio’s beloved historic tram, crossing the aqueduct to Lapa, where classic samba clubs can be found.
During February’s carnival season, Rio is an explosion of feathered headwear and fancy footwork — but it’s possible to experience the party spirit at any time of year. Visit one of the city’s established sambadromes to see past floats and dress up in discarded costumes.
From tourist magnet Copacabana, to fashionable Ipanema and Leblon, life revolves around the beach. Day and night cariocas jog, laze or play football in their outdoor living room.
All over the country, wild landscapes harbour even wilder exotic species
Further south, a four-hour drive along the Costa Verde, colonial treasure Paraty is a quieter option for seaside retreats. Swim in turquoise waters gazing up at slopes swathed in Atlantic forest, and explore car-free cobbled streets, declared a Unesco world heritage site.
All over the country, wild landscapes harbour even wilder exotic species. Although much of the dense Amazon rainforest is inaccessible, the main entry point is Manaus. From here, boat trips can be taken along the jungle’s main waterway and her myriad Amazon rivers.
Much further south, the jungle gives way to the dry cerrado (savannah) and wetlands. A remote wilderness roamed by cattle and cowboys, the Pantanal extends into neighbouring Bolivia and Paraguay. Thanks to eco-tourism efforts, this is the best place in the world to see jaguars — viewed by river boat from Porto Joffe or safari-style on land.
The greatest cultural focus is further north in Bahia. Characterised by a mesmerising mix of capoeira, coconut curries and candomblé, Salvador’s old town Pelourinho district is a breathing museum piece; watch worshippers crowd churches draped with ribbons and relics, and listen to the hypnotic strings of the berimbau.
Former mining town Minas Gerais also strikes gold with its brightly coloured architecture, ornate churches and culinary prowess. Tiradentes is a foodie haven, while Ouro Preto and Diamantina are Unesco world heritage towns.
At the bottom of the country, forming a border with Argentina, Iguazu Falls earns its reputation for being one of Latin America’s greatest natural wonders.
