The ultimate Brazil 10 day travel itinerary: Just the highlights

Brazil, the largest country in South America and the fifth largest in the world by both area and population, offers an incredible diversity of experiences for travelers—even within a 10-day trip.

The 5th largest country in the world, Brazil is home to over 215 million people Brazil, over 7,400 kilometers (4,600 miles) of Atlantic coastline, and some of the world's most iconic natural and cultural landmarks. With 27 states and a mix of ecosystems from beaches to tropical rainforest, planning a quick trip requires strategic choices.

In just 10 days, explore vibrant urban centers like Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, witness the thunderous power of Iguazu Falls, and unwind in the historic beach town of Paraty. This 10 day Brazil travel itinerary balances urban adventures, natural wonders, and pristine beaches to make the most of a compact yet unforgettable Brazilian adventure.

Travel Itinerary: 10 Day Brazil Highlights Quick Tour

This super quick travel itinerary for Brazil is perfect for those who only have a short time to explore Brazil, but still want to squeeze in all of the top highlights.

Rio de Janeiro → Paraty → São Paulo → Foz do Iguaçu

Days 1–4: Rio de Janeiro

Read my guide to the 15 best things to do in Rio de Janeiro Find accommodation deals in Rio de Janeiro

Day 1: Arrive in Rio & visit a museum

Morning: Arrive early in Rio de Janeiro, and check into a hotel or guesthouse in Copacabana or Ipanema. Have breakfast and get ready for your first day in Brazil.

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 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). If you feel like a drink afterwards, head to Leblon to Liz Cocktail Co, or head to Pedra do Sal for samba on Monday nights.

Day 2: Christ the Redeemer, Centro, & Sugarloaf

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: Join a walking tour - either a private guided or one of the many popular free options, to explore downtown Rio’s main cultural and historical sites. Highlights include the Escadaria Selarón (the colorful Selaron Steps), the Arcos da Lapa aqueduct, the Catedral Metropolitana, and more.

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 live music.

Day 3: Santa Teresa & a sunset boat

Morning: Begin the day early with a guided hike up Morro Dois Irmãos, starting in the Vidigal favela. The hike is moderately challenging, culminating in one of Rio’s most breathtaking views overlooking Leblon, Ipanema, and Rocinha, and an incredible sunrise, if you wake up early enough.

If you hiked before sunrise, return for breakfast at Forte de Copa, then spend some time relaxing on the beach.

Afternoon: Head to the bohemian neighborhood of Santa Teresa and have lunch in a beautiful garden cafe. 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 4: Botanic Gardens and travel to Paraty

Morning: For your final morning in Rio, 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.

Afternoon: Take the 4-hour Costa Verde bus to Paraty, or save time by booking a private transfer with hotel pick-up and drop-off. Sit on the left side for stunning ocean views. When you arrive, settle into your pousada and explore Paraty’s historic center on foot - no cars allowed!

Days 5–7: Paraty & Trindade

Check out my full 3-day Paraty itinerary Find accommodation deals in Paraty

Day 5: Snorkeling and island-hopping

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 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 6: 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.

Day 7: Trindade beaches & Paraty's old town

Morning: Take a local bus to Trindade, a laid-back beach town 40 minutes away. Explore Praia do Cepilho, Praia do Meio, and the natural pools at Caixa d’Aço. Spend a couple of hours swimming and exploring, then have lunch by the beach before returning to Paraty.

Afternoon: Consider joining the free walking tour of Paraty's Historic centre to learn more about the history of Paraty. Or, spend your last hours in Paraty doing some final shopping in the artisan shops.

Evening: Maximise your time exploring - board a comfortable 7-hour overnight bus to Sao Paulo. Alternatively, you could leave in the afternoon if you prefer to spend the night in Sao Paulo.

Day 8: São Paulo layover

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

Day 8: Explore São Paulo in one day

Morning: Arrive in Sao Paulo early in the morning. Check your bags into a cheap & secure luggage storage and head to Avenida Paulista. Visit MASP (Museum of Art of São Paulo), one of Latin America's top art museums.

Lunch: Head to the Sao Paulo Municipal Market for a massive mortadella sandwich or pastel de bacalhau. Wander through the market to taste tropical fruits, juices, and other artisanal products.

Afternoon: Wander through Vila Madalena, an artsy neighborhood known for its street murals at Beco do Batman, indie shops, and cafes. Have an early dinner before heading to the airport.

Evening: Fly to Foz do Iguaçu. Check in to your hotel near the park entrance and get ready for a day of waterfalls. Consider staying at the Hotel das Cataratas, a luxury hotel located inside Iguaçu National Park, giving you exclusive after-hours access to the falls.

Days 9–10: Foz do Iguaçu (Iguazu Falls)

See my full Foz do Iguaçu 3-day itinerary Find accommodation deals in Foz do Iguacu

Day 9: Brazilian side of the falls and birdwatching

Morning: 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. The trail offers breathtaking views across to the Argentine side. Finish at the Garganta do Diabo (Devil's Throat) viewing platform, where you'll hear the thundering roar of the largest waterfall. Don't forget to spot coatis along the trail.

Afternoon: Walk to Parque das Aves, one of Latin America’s most remarkable bird parks with a diverse range of native birds. Explore the immersive walk-through aviaries showcasing over 1,000 birds such as toucans, macaws, flamingos, and harpy eagles.

Evening: Return to your hotel to freshen up. For dinner, visit a nearby churrasco restaurant. Consider a nightcap of local cachaça.

Optional: If you want to add something really unforgettable to your trip, take a helicopter ride over Iguazu Falls, to get an unmatched perspective of the size and scale of the falls from above

Day 10: The Argentine side of the falls

Note: If you are travelling onwards to Argentina, take your bags with you when you depart for Argentina in the morning.

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.

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.

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!