The ultimate Brazil 3 week travel itinerary: Discover the best places to visit in Brazil

From thundering waterfalls and island beaches to colonial towns, samba rhythms, and jungle hikes—this three-week itinerary is your deep dive into Brazil’s wild beauty, diverse culture and cuisine, and incredible landscapes. You’ll start at the jaw-dropping Iguaçu Falls, swim in crystal-clear island waters at one of the best beaches in Brazil Ilha Grande, learn how to make cachaca in the colonial town of Paraty, soak up the beach-meets-city vibes in Rio de Janeiro. Then head out to see the dramatic mountain landscapes in Chapada Diamantina. Finally, experience the rhythms of Afro-Brazilian culture in Salvador.

Along the way, eat regional dishes from each of your destinations - feijoada and churrasco in Rio, moqueca and acarajé in Bahia, and cachaça by the sea. This 3-week travel itinerary for Brazil is the perfect blend of nature, history, and fun—designed for travelers who want to experience everything.

Travel itinerary: How to spend 3 weeks in Brazil

Foz do Iguaçu → Florianópolis → São Paulo → Paraty → Ilha Grande → Rio de Janeiro → Salvador → Chapada Diamantina → Salvador

Days 1–2: Foz do Iguaçu

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Day 1: Birds and waterfalls on the Brazilian side

Morning: Arrive early in Foz do Iguaçu and check into a hotel. Without a doubt, the best place to stay in Iguazu Falls is Hotel das Cataratas. This luxury hotel is uniquely located inside Iguaçu National Park, and it uniquely offers after-hours access to the falls. This means you can visit the falls without the crowds once the day visitors have departed.

After breakfast, head to the entrance of Iguaçu National Park and board the park shuttle to the trailhead for the Brazilian side of Iguaçu Falls. Enjoy the panoramic trail, which offers breathtaking views across to the Argentine side. Finish at the Garganta do Diabo (Devil's Throat) viewing platform, where you'll be enveloped in mist and hear the thundering roar of the largest waterfall. You can take your time photographing the cascades and spotting coatis along the trail.

Afternoon: Walk to Parque das Aves, one of Latin America’s most remarkable bird parks. Explore the immersive walk-through aviaries showcasing over 1,000 birds such as toucans, macaws, flamingos, and harpy eagles. Don’t miss the butterfly garden and reptile enclosure.

Evening: Return to your hotel to freshen up. For dinner, visit a nearby churrasco restaurant. Try traditional cuts of meat like picanha, accompanied by farofa, feijão (beans), and grilled vegetables. Consider a nightcap of local cachaça.

Day 2: The Argentine side of the falls

Note: If you started your trip in Puerto Iguazu, you can swap days 1 & 2

Full day: Bring your passport and head across the border into Argentina (tickets). Arrive at Parque Nacional Iguazú and ride the Ecological Jungle Train to the dramatic Garganta del Diablo platform, offering a different perspective from yesterday. Hike the Upper Circuit for sweeping vistas over the cascades and the Lower Circuit for up-close encounters and hidden rainforest trails.

Bring water-resistant gear and consider taking the Gran Aventura boat tour, which navigates the lower Iguazú River and takes you into the spray of the falls. The adrenaline rush is unmatched, and you’ll come away soaked.

For those who prefer a tour, it is possible to take a tour to the Argentinian side of the falls with pick-up and drop-off in Brazil.

Evening: Return to Brazil in the early evening, retrieve your bags, and head to the airport. Take an evening flight to Florianópolis, usually with a short layover in São Paulo. It is also possible to take an overnight bus, and though the journey is comfortable it is quite long (15 hours).

When you arrive, check into a cozy pousada in Lagoa da Conceição, Barra da Lagoa, or Campeche Beach depending on your vibe.

Days 3–5: Florianópolis

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Note: Florianopolis is an amazing destination that is not to be missed. But, if you need to minimise flights or travel time, you could instead visit Morro de Sao Paulo, a short boat ride from Salvador, later in the trip.

Day 3: Explore the local beaches

Morning: Begin your day with coffee and a fresh açaí bowl at a café overlooking Lagoa da Conceição. Take a short taxi or bus ride to Praia Mole, where you can rent a beach chair and umbrella, join a beginner surf class, or simply enjoy the sun and scenery. Vendors offer coconuts, pastéis (deep fried pastries), and queijo coado (grilled cheese). If you're feeling adventurous, head to the Joaquina Dunes to try sandboarding.

Afternoon: Head to Barra da Lagoa, a laid-back fishing village with a charming canal. Stop for lunch at a local seafood restaurant - the grilled tainha is a local favorite. Spend the afternoon exploring local area including Praia Mozambique where you can swim and surf, or hike to one of the nearby viewpoints or natural pools (piscinas naturais).

Evening: For dinner, head to Ribeirão da Ilha, known for its oyster farms. Choose a restaurant on the water and order oysters of one of the other fresh seafood dishes. Enjoy a quiet, star-lit stroll afterward along the colonial-style waterfront. If it’s the weekend, check for live samba or forró events at local bars.

Day 4: Hike to Lagoinha do Leste

Morning: After a big breakfast, take an Uber to Pântano do Sul for the hike to Lagoinha do Leste, a secluded beach accessible only by trail or boat. The 2 hour hike traverses steep hills and through the Atlantic forest, offering sweeping ocean views from the top. Wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water and sunscreen.

Afternoon: Once at the beach, take a dip in the waves or relax on the sand. Behind the beach lies a freshwater lagoon ideal for a peaceful swim. Bring a picnic lunch. Spend some time unwinding by the waves, or reading in the shade of a tree. Hike back the same way.

For those who are not confident hiking alone, there are highly rated tour guides available for this hike:

Evening: Return to your pousada and unwind. Back in Lagoa, head for dinner in one of the many open-air restaurants and music. Follow it up with a caipirinha or craft beer while watching street musicians.

Day 5: Snorkel at Campeche Island

Morning: Head to Campeche Island for a morning of snorkeling. Take a boat from Praia da Armação or Barra da Lagoa (depending on where you're staying) to Ilha do Campeche, a protected island just off the coast of Florianópolis. Known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and excellent snorkeling, it's one of the most beautiful beaches in Brazil. There are short hiking trails on the island, as well as archaeological sites with ancient petroglyphs.

Late Afternoon/Evening: Fly to São Paulo, arriving in the late afternoon. Check into a boutique hotel in the bohemian neighborhood of Vila Madalena or the upscale Paulista Avenue area. Explore the nearby streets lined with bars, galleries, and design stores.

Evening: Have dinner at a classic boteco (bar-restaurant) where you can sample bolinho de bacalhau (salt cod fritters) and local beers. If you're up for it, check out a samba club or rooftop bar with skyline views.

Days 6–7: São Paulo

Read my guide to the 10 best things to do in Sao Paulo Find accommodation deals in Sao Paulo

Day 6: Art, markets & murals

Morning: Start at MASP (Museu de Arte de São Paulo), famed for its concrete and glass structure and Latin American art. Wander through its galleries featuring works by Portinari, Tarsila do Amaral, and European masters.

Afternoon: Visit Ibirapuera Park, a 158 hectare green space in the centre of the city. The park also houses many other museums that may interest you, including Museum of Modern Art, or the Afro-Brazil Museum. Or, just grab a snack at one of the park's many street vendors and relax under the shade of the massive fig trees.

Optional: Head to the Mercado Municipal to sample tropical fruits and other local Brazilian home-made products. The market is on the way to Liberdade, but note that the market closes at 6pm.

Evening: Head to Liberdade, the Japanese district, and try sushi or ramen with a Brazilian twist. End the night with cocktails at a sky bar with a view of the city.

Day 7: Visit Beco do Batman and head to Paraty

Morning: Take a short ride to Beco do Batman, a dynamic open-air street art gallery in Vila Madalena. Browse quirky bookstores, vintage shops, and cafes with cold brew and brigadeiros. Wrap up with a casual snack of pastel de feira from a nearby street stand.

Afternoon: Have lunch, then hop on a scenic bus to Paraty, passing through beautiful forest and coastal scenery. The trop is long so consider downloading some Brazilian music or Brazilian Netflix shows for the ride. Alternatively if you prefer to maximise your time in Sao Paulo, you can stay a little longer and choose the overnight bus to Paraty.

Evening: Arrive in Paraty, a colonial town lit by lanterns and cobblestone alleys. Settle into your pousada in the historic center and dine al fresco on seafood pasta or grilled fish by candlelight. Wander through the quiet lanes and take in the architecture before heading to bed.

Days 8–9: Paraty

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Day 8: Beach & boat day

Morning: Take a schooner tour around the Paraty Bay, with stops for snorkeling and swimming at Praia da Lula, Ilha Comprida, and other idyllic islands. Most tours include a grilled fish lunch on board and fresh tropical fruit.

Afternoon: Return in the mid to late afternoon and spend some time relaxing on Praia do Pontal. Sip on fresh coconut water while watching the local fishermen.

Evening: Wind down with sunset drinks near the harbor. Paraty’s laid-back nightlife often includes live forró or samba music spilling from open-air bars.

Day 9: Waterfall & Cachaca Jeep Tour

Full day: Wake up in Paraty's historical center and grab breakfast - maybe a pão de queijo and strong Brazilian coffee.

Then, head out on a half-day jeep tour through the Atlantic rainforest. This tour includes visits to several stunning waterfalls like Pedra Branca and Tobogã Falls, where you can swim in natural pools or try sliding down the smooth rock. There is a restaurant located by the waterfalls serving up local cuisine for lunch.

The tour also includes a visit to a local cachaça distillery. You’ll learn how Brazil’s famous sugarcane liquor is made and enjoy tastings of flavored varieties, from cinnamon to fruit-infused blends.

Evening: Stroll through the cobblestone streets as the golden hour lights up the streets. Stop by artisan shops and grab a caipirinha from a local bar. For dinner, try a restaurant with live samba music and seafood-focused dishes.

Days 10–11: Ilha Grande

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Day 10: Arrive in Ilha Grande & visit Lopes Mendes Beach

Morning: Take an early morning bus transfer from Paraty to Angra dos Reis, followed by a quick speed boat to Ilha Grande. The full transfer takes around 3 hours (transfer tickets). Arrive in Abraão village, the island’s main town. Settle into your pousada and stretch your legs with a walk along the beach.

Afternoon: After a quick lunch, hike 2 hours through the forest to reach Lopes Mendes Beach, one of the best beaches in Brazil, and even one of the most beautiful in the world. If you prefer not to hike, take a boat to Pouso and walk the final 20 minutes to reach the beach. Spend the afternoon enjoying this pristine beach.

Evening: Return to town by boat from Pouso, and enjoy a dinner of fresh seafood and live samba at a beach bar. Enjoy the relaxed vibe of Abraão, with no cars and the sound of waves instead of traffic.

Day 11: Snorkeling day trip

Early morning (optional): For those who love hiking, wake up early to hike to the Pico do Papagaio view-point for sunrise. It is usually recommended to take a guide for this challenging hike.

Full or half day: Join a boat tour to Lagoa Azul, known for its clear turquoise waters and excellent snorkeling. Swim with colorful fish and if you're lucky spot a sea turtle. There are also incredible boat tours available that circumnavigate the entire island in one day.

Alternative: If you don't feel like doing another boat tour, instead hike to Praia Preta and the nearby ruins of the old leper hospital and aqueduct. The short trail takes you through Atlantic rainforest and past scenic viewpoints.

Evening: Eat dinner at a beachside restaurant featuring grilled seafood and tropical cocktails.

Days 12–15: Rio de Janeiro

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Day 12: Travel and dinner in Rio de Janeiro

Morning: Have breakfast and take an early speedboat back to Angra dos Reis, followed by a bus transfer to Rio de Janeiro. The full transfer takes around 4 hours (transfer tickets).

Afternoon: Check into a hotel or guesthouse in Copacabana or Ipanema, and head to the beach for a relaxing afternoon. Don't forget to try a caipirinha made fresh on the beach. On weekends, visit the Ipanema Hippie Market or Copacabana’s fair for crafts and souvenirs. Enjoy a swim and a fresh açai bowl.

Then head to Arpoador, the point in between Copacabana and Ipanema beaches, to watch the sunset.

Evening: Head out for dinner at a traditional churrascaria (Brazilian BBQ). Afterward, sip a cocktail at a rooftop bar overlooking the city or the beach.

Day 13: Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf & Santa Teresa

Morning: Start with an early morning visit to Christ the Redeemer before the crowds arrive. Take the train up to the top, where you can take in sweeping views of Rio de Janeiro from the top of Corcovado mountain.

Afternoon: Then, walk by the famous Selarón Steps and Lapa arches. Finally, head to Sugarloaf Mountain and take a cable car to the top in time to see the sunset.

This is a big day of sightseeing! Take the stress off by booking a full-day tour to see all of Rio's best sites:

Evening: Relax with a drink and dinner back in Ipanema or Copacabana. If you still have energy, head out to a samba bar to see some local music.

Day 14: Museums, Santa Teresa & a sunset boat

Morning: Visit Museu do Amanhã (Museum of Tomorrow), a striking modern science museum focused on sustainability and the future. Then walk along Boulevard Olímpico, located right out the front of the museum, home to large-scale street art including Kobra’s colorful mural.

Afternoon: Head to the bohemian neighborhood of Santa Teresa. Have lunch at a garden café, then explore its colonial mansions and artisan studios. Take a ride on the iconic Santa Teresa Tram.

Evening: Take a sunset boat trip around Guanabara Bay. Watch the skyline change colors as you pass Sugarloaf Mountain and Niterói. End with a casual dinner at one of the kiosks along the Copacabana promenade.

Day 15: Botanic Gardens and travel to Salvador

Morning: For your final morning in Rio, escape the city buzz and unwind in the Rio de Janeiro Botanical Garden (Jardim Botânico), a peaceful 137-hectare space with over 6,000 species of plants. Stroll through orchid greenhouses, bamboo groves, and quiet trails while spotting birds and monkeys.

Or, for a free and equally beautiful alternative, head to Parque Lage, located right nearby, features forested walking trails, gardens, and a 19th-century mansion with an open courtyard café. From the garden, you’ll get a gorgeous view of Christ the Redeemer above the trees.

Afternoon: Fly from Rio to Salvador, the capital of Bahia. Check into a hotel in Barra or Rio Vermelho, vibrant neighborhoods known for their beachy vibes, music scenes, and easy access to historic areas. They are considered safer areas of the city to stay in.

Evening: Head to Rio Vermelho for dinner. Grab a bite of acarajé from one of the local street vendors and explore the neighborhood’s cool, laid-back bar scene with live music and caipirinhas.

Day 16: Salvador

Read my guide to the 10 best things to do in Salvador Find accommodation deals in Salvador

Day 16: Explore Pelourinho

Morning: Consider joining a walking tour of Pelourinho, the colorful colonial heart of Salvador. Wander cobblestone streets lined with baroque buildings, visit the ornate São Francisco Church, and stop by the Fundação Casa de Jorge Amado to learn about one of Brazil’s most iconic writers. Pop into small galleries and artisan shops for handcrafted souvenirs, and to taste local Cachaca Gabriella, infused with cloves and cinnamon.

You can also catch capoeira performances in one of Pelourinho’s main squares, or, if you're interested in trying it for yourself you can take a class!

Afternoon: Have lunch in Pelourinho, then, head to the Mercado Modelo for some souvenir shopping. Afterwards, head to Porto da Barra for a swim and to wind down. Catch the sunset at the Barra Lighthouse, where there is daily live music and a great atmosphere.

Overnight: Travel to Lençóis, the gateway to Chapada Diamantina. You can take a comfortable long-distance bus overnight (7 hours). If you prefer, you can also travel during the afternoon, but the overnight bus is recommended as to not cut into your time enjoying Salvador.

Days 17–19: Chapada Diamantina

Read my guide to the 10 best day trips in Chapada Diamantina Find accommodation deals in Lencois

Day 17: Ribeirão do Meio & Lençóis town

Morning: Tired from the overnight bus, rest and have a late breakfast. Stroll through artisan markets and historic town in Lençóis. If you feel up to it, spend a relaxing morning at Piscinas Naturais do Serrano (Serrano Natural Pools), a series of scenic pools just a short 15 minute walk from Lençóis town.

Afternoon: Have a casual lunch in town. Take a short hike to Ribeirão do Meio, a natural rock waterslide and swimming hole popular with locals and travelers alike. Walk a little further downstream to find a swimming hole just for you. Look out for little monkeys, birds, and other local wildlife during the hike.

Evening: Enjoy a relaxed dinner with regional cuisine.

Day 18: Sossego Waterfall hike (or another full-day adventure)

Morning to Afternoon: Head out on a full-day hike to Cachoeira do Sossego, a beautiful and un-crowded waterfall with a swimming area. The trek is moderately challenging and takes you through rivers, canyons, and shaded forest paths. Bring a plenty of water, a picnic lunch, and take a refreshing swim at the falls.

Alternatively: Choose other full-day hike such as the Cachoeira da Fumaça trail. Or, for those who don't feel like hiking, take a day trip to visit the nearby hippie town Vale do Capão, which has an artisan market and capoeira every Sunday morning. For more day trip ideas, see my list of the 10 best day trips in Chapada Diamantina.

Evening: Return to Lençóis for a relaxing dinner in town.

Day 19: Tour to Poço Azul, Pratinha Farm & Morro do Pai Inácio

Morning to Afternoon: Join a guided tour that covers some of the region’s highlights:

• Poço Azul, a stunning underground cave pool with crystal-clear blue water ideal for snorkeling.

• Pratinha Farm, a riverside retreat with more crystal-clear swimming areas, zip-lining, and kayaking.

• End the day with a hike up Morro do Pai Inácio, one of the park’s most iconic sunset viewpoints offering sweeping vistas of Chapada’s valleys and plateaus.

Evening: Return to Lençóis and enjoy a well-earned dinner, perhaps with a local artisanal cachaça. Take the overnight bus back to Salvador at 11pm.

Days 20-21: Salvador

Day 20: Explore Salvador's cuisine and culture

Morning: Start your day with a visit to the Museu de Arte da Bahia to see a diverse art collection that is focused primarily on the works of Bahian artists.

Afternoon:  Afterwards, take a short walk to the famous restaurant Dona Suzana, as featured on the Netflix series Street Food: Latin America, for a moqueca lunch—one of Bahia's most iconic dishes. After lunch take a short row-boat ride from the adjacent Gamboa beach to Bar da Monica, a local oceanside bar where you can enjoy a cold beer, their must-try shrimp pastel, have a swim, and watch the sunset.

Evening: Head out for a special night at the Folklore Ballet (Balé Folclórico da Bahia) that teaches stories of traditional indigenous folklore and incorporates drumming and high-energy samba and capoeira choreographies.

Day 21: Final day in Salvador & Departure

Morning: Head out to see one of Salvador's many specialty museums, depending on your interests:

• Casa do Carnaval da Bahia: This museum celebrates the vibrant culture of Salvador's Carnival, featuring artifacts and displays.

• Fundação Pierre Verger: This museum showcases the works of the renowned photographer and ethnographer who documented Bahian culture.

• Museu da Gastronomia Baiana: For food lovers, this museum explores the rich culinary traditions of Bahia.

• Museu Afro Brasileiro: This museum explores the history and culture of the African diaspora in Brazil.

If you prefer to do an activity rather than visit a museum, consider taking a class that incorporate Brazilian culture, like capoeira (book), samba (book), or traditional drumming (book).

Afternoon: Spend your last day in Salvador relaxing by the beach at Porto da Barra, or venture further to one of the city’s many other beautiful beaches like Flamengo Beach. Enjoy a final swim and take in the views. Order one last grilled cheese (queijo coaldo) and caipirinha on the beach.

Evening: Head out to hear some local music, like Samba or Forro. Check my Salvador nightlife guide for ideas!

Transfer to Salvador International Airport for your flight out.

More resources for planning your trip

• Find cheap bus, ferry, and private transfer tickets on Bookaway, where you can make reservations ahead of time from abroad. For more information on traveling by bus, read my full guide to taking long-distance busses in Brazil.

• Book your accommodation on Booking.com, with thousands of options ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly backpacker hostels, there's something for everyone

• Don't forget to read my packing check-list for Brazil

• Finally, read this post to find out 10 things you should do before you travel to Brazil!