7 key insights for traveling to Brazil

Simply say you're heading to Brazil, and vivid images of sun-kissed beaches and the lively rhythms of samba or the smooth sounds of bossa nova will spring to mind.

From the iconic yellow and blue jerseys of its national soccer team to the vibrant costumes of the Carnaval dancers and the famous fruity hat of Carmen Miranda, Brazil's cultural impact on the globe is undeniable. Yet, as a Brazilian-American, I’m often astonished by how little others know about the country’s diverse regions and everyday traditions.

Having grown up enjoying pão de queijo (cheese bread) and brigadeiros (chocolate truffles), I've been visiting Brazil since childhood and continue to explore new areas and visit family.

Brazil offers countless experiences, but here are the top insights to ensure your trip to Brazil is truly memorable.

1. Brazil offers more than just beaches and rainforests

While the vibrant atmosphere of Copacabana Beach and the rich biodiversity of the Amazon Rainforest may be well-known, they only scratch the surface of Brazil's stunning natural allure.

For adventurous nature enthusiasts, Brazil is a treasure trove filled with remarkable geographical variety.

In the northeastern part of Brazil, you can discover vast dunes and natural swimming pools in the states of Ceará and Maranhão, or head to the landlocked state of Tocantins, where the expansive savannah houses the uniquely stunning park of Jalapão.

National parks such as Chapada Diamantina and Chapada dos Veadeiros amaze visitors with their breathtaking mountain views and waterfalls, alongside the awe-inspiring Iguaçu Falls, one of the largest waterfalls globally, consisting of over 200 cascades.

2. There are vibrant urban centers beyond Rio and São Paulo

Although Rio de Janeiro showcases Brazil’s most recognizable skyline and São Paulo serves as a bustling metropolis filled with cultural and business landmarks, these cities are far from the only urban destinations in Brazil that deserve attention.

For architecture enthusiasts, a visit to the capital city of Brasilia is a must, showcasing the iconic designs of Brazilian architect Oscar Niemeyer. Meanwhile, food lovers should explore Belo Horizonte, the Minas Gerais capital celebrated for its exceptional cuisine.

In the northern region, Salvador stands as a hub for discovering the heart of Afro-Brazilian culture, which has given rise to the martial art of capoeira and the beloved national dish, feijoada (a savory bean and meat stew).

3. Brazil is a vibrant cultural mosaic

The USA is not the only cultural blend in the Western hemisphere. Brazilian culture weaves together the traditions and customs of indigenous peoples, Afro-Brazilian communities, and various immigrant groups.

In São Paulo, the Liberdade neighborhood is known for its vibrant Japanese-Brazilian community, while in the southern states, the influence of German immigrants is evident in the region's half-timbered houses.

Brazilian cuisine also reflects Lebanese and Italian influences, with popular late-night snacks including kibbeh (fried bulgur wheat and meatballs) and pizza.

The national dish feijoada has roots in Afro-Brazilian and indigenous cultures, who utilized cassava flour long before European arrival in Brazil. This flour is essential for farofa (toasted cassava flour), the most common side dish served with feijoada.

4. Knowing a bit of Portuguese will be incredibly helpful

Beyond tourist hotspots, you'll find that few Brazilians speak English, and even if you speak Spanish, it may not suffice in many situations.

Along with learning basic phrases, it's crucial to familiarize yourself with pronunciation. For instance, an r at the start of a word is pronounced like an h, so 'Rio' in Rio de Janeiro sounds closer to 'Hio.'

Though it may appear to be a minor point, understanding this is vital if you ever need to ask for directions.

5. A cheek kiss is a traditional form of greeting.

In social settings, Brazilians typically greet each other with a kiss on the cheek, even when meeting for the first time.

It doesn’t have to be a full kiss; a cheek-to-cheek touch accompanied by a smacking sound is customary. This gesture is common between two women or a man and a woman, while men usually prefer a handshake.

In more formal situations, such as business meetings or simple transactions, you can skip the kiss. The number of kisses varies by region: one in São Paulo, two in Rio, and sometimes three or more in Bahia.

6. Prioritize safety in urban environments.

Crime remains a significant concern across Brazil, particularly in major cities and the favelas often found on the outskirts. While favela tours exist, they can be contentious, with many viewing them as exploitative and unethical.

Brazilians typically advise tourists to avoid wearing jewelry and openly displaying expensive electronics, particularly smartphones, while out and about.

I've experienced this firsthand while taking photos, with many people warning me to be cautious by saying “cuidado” (be careful). Stay alert in crowded places, especially those popular with tourists, and try not to walk alone at night.

7. Driving in flip-flops is against the law.

Despite Brazil's reputation for its Havaianas, road safety is taken seriously. Flip-flops can easily snag on car pedals, leading to accidents, so driving in them can result in a fine. However, it is permissible to drive barefoot if you have no other shoes available.