10 Essential Excursions to Experience in Brazil

Feeling inspired by 90 Day Fiancé: The Other Way? Read on!

By: Zia Thompson

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Exciting Things to Do in Brazil

Oh, the things we do for love! In the new series, 90 Day Fiancé: The Other Way, six Americans are risking it all and uprooting their lives to move across the world for a shot at their own happily ever after. The show will visit Paul and Karine from 90 Day Fiancé: Before the 90 Days. The two are married but Paul cannot afford Karine’s visa, and his mother won’t co-sponsor her. With a baby on the way, Paul had to make a new plan: move to Brazil himself. Will they be able to work things out or will there be trouble in paradise?

Inspired by Paul and Karine, here is a list of essential excursions that would make any trip to Brazil, be it for a week or for a lifetime, worthwhile!

Inhotim Botanical Garden and Contemporary Art Museum

If you love art and nature, you have to put this on your itinerary! The Inhotim is one of the largest foundations of contemporary art, not only in Brazil but in all of Latin America as well. The museum is home to about 500 works of art by Brazilian and international artists from nearly 30 countries. Its location near the Atlantic Forest has allowed for a thriving botanical garden, where flora lovers can find the Carrion, a flower native to Asia that is famous for being the biggest in the world.

Rio Carnaval

If you find yourself in Rio during February and March, you have to celebrate Carnaval! It’s a week-long parade that puts the colors, sounds and vibrancy of the city on full display! Be sure to purchase tickets early and head over to the Sambadrome, the specially designed stadium that hosts the event If the hours-long parade is too much to handle, you can attend one of the many Blocos (block parties) that are placed all around the city and are free for all to enjoy!

Try Brigadeiros!

Calling all chocolate lovers! Brigadeiros are a traditional dessert that are similar to a chocolate truffle. They are made with sweetened condensed milk, butter and cocoa powder. After they are shaped into bite-sized balls, they are then rolled into sprinkles! Pick up some brigadeiros for your sweet, late night cravings while out on the town or to munch on while lounging at one of Brazil’s beautiful beaches.

Iguazu Falls

If you think Niagara Falls is incredible, wait until you see Iguazu Falls! It’s a spectacular, natural wonder of the world. The falls are located on the Brazil/Argentina border, so you can view them from either side with a breathtaking view of the other country. If you don’t mind large crowds, visit in January or February during peak season. If you’d prefer to skip the peak visitation period, opt to go see the falls in September or October.

Pedra da Gávea

If you’re looking for a thrill, look no further! You can hike to the top of Pedra da Gávea, one of the highest mountains in the world that ends directly in the ocean. The hike is inside the Atlantic Forest and, on the way up, you will be able to see all kinds of animals and plants. The hike is long but worth it once you make it to the top. Your reward? A view you’ll remember forever.

Eat Some Pão de Queijo!

No matter where you are in the world, you cannot go wrong with cheese and bread! Pão de queijo is basically cheese stuffed into bite-sized bread rolls. They are best served (and enjoyed!) at any time of day. If you are looking for something more than a bite-sized snack, Pão de queijo can also be made in a larger size with heartier fillings, such as meat.

Escadaria Selarón

Get ready to go viral on Instagram! Put on your best outfit and get a picture taken on these iconic steps located in Rio de Janeiro. The stairs, which are named after their artist, Jorge Selarón, are his tribute to the Brazilian people. The vibrant stairs have been featured in many magazines, movies, documentaries and commercials. Do not let this amazing photo op pass you by!

Christ the Redeemer

Christ the Redeemer is one of the most iconic statues not only in Brazil but in the entire world! The art deco depiction of Jesus Christ stands at over 100 feet tall. To get to the statue, you can travel by tram, car or foot. Those who choose to hike will be treated to sights of the Tijuca forest during the two-hour trip to the top. Regardless of whether or not you’re adventurous enough to hike to the statue, you will never forget the breathtaking sight of this wonder of the world.

Lapa

If you are a big history and culture buff or are just looking to add a change of pace to your itinerary, check out the neighborhood of Lapa, located in Rio. Lapa is known for many great museums, theaters, landmarks and parks. Lapa is also a hub for some great nightlife including bars, live music clubs and open-air samba jams. The small neighborhood packs a big punch when it comes to all-day entertainment.

Parque das Aves

Parque das Aves is the perfect excursion for families and exotic bird enthusiasts alike. It is an aviary and zoo nestled beside the Iguassu National Park. Parque das Aves is home to over 1,300 birds from about 143 different species. The park is also the only institution in the world that is focused on the conservation of Atlantic Rainforest birds. Don’t let your opportunity to see this spot fly by!