Brazil, renowned for iconic attractions like Iguaçu Falls and Copacabana Beach, offers much more beyond its well-known landmarks. With six major biomes and a diverse society blending Indigenous, European, and African roots, Brazil boasts captivating landscapes, cultures, and customs. CNN Travel presents five lesser-explored destinations in this vast South American country.
Salvador, Bahia: Founded in 1549, Salvador stands on a small peninsula between Todos os Santos Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. This historic colonial town served as Portuguese America’s first capital. Salvador’s streets showcase colorful colonial architecture, reflecting the convergence of European, African, and Indigenous cultures in the 16th century. The city boasts a vibrant Afro-Brazilian community, with lively festivals echoing through cobbled streets. Despite its dark history as the first slave market in the New World, Salvador thrives today as a cultural gem. Visitors can explore museums like the Afro Brasileiro Museum to delve into this crucial past.
Baia dos Porcos, Fernando de Noronha: Baia dos Porcos, or “Pig’s Bay,” stands as one of the world’s most beautiful beaches, nestled in the Fernando de Noronha archipelago off Brazil’s northeast coast. Characterized by striking rock formations, including the iconic Dois Irmaos, this beach is a snorkeler’s paradise with natural pools teeming with exotic marine life. Accessible only at low tide, reaching the beach involves navigating dense jungle or arriving by boat. The mesmerizing landscape, clear waters, and abundant marine fauna make it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts.
Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park: Located in the central state of Goiás, Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park captivates with lush forests, commanding mountains, and ancient rock formations dating back 1.8 billion years. Over 30 waterfalls adorn the park, attracting adventurers seeking the energy of embedded quartz crystals. The region’s mystical ambiance has led to tales of UFOs and mystical occurrences. While there are no direct flights, visitors can travel to Brasilia and then reach Alto Paraíso or Sāo Jorge by bus. These small cities serve as gateways to the park, offering accommodation, crystal shops, and healing practitioners.
Ilha do Marajó: Known as one of the world’s largest river islands, Ilha do Marajó is surrounded by the mighty Amazon. This remote outpost, nearly the size of Switzerland, features thick forests on the western side and expansive plains and wetlands on the eastern half. Famous for its water buffalo herds—double the human population—Ilha do Marajó provides a wild, uninhabited island feel. Accessible by daily ferry from Belém or a car ferry from Icoaraci, the island offers a unique experience with sizable communities in towns like Soure and Salvaterra.
Emas National Park: Nestled in central Brazil, Emas National Park shelters rare wildlife such as maned wolves, giant anteaters, and giant armadillos. The park’s Cerrado biome, one of the world’s oldest and most diverse ecosystems, boasts between 350 and 400 plant species per hectare. September and October bring a unique natural spectacle—the flight of millions of termites, accompanied by glowing Pyrophorus beetle larvae. This remote area faces challenges like fires, mining, and invasive species, making responsible tourism crucial. Adventurous travelers willing to explore Emas National Park will encounter a pristine and rewarding natural environment.
These five hidden gems in Brazil showcase the country’s diverse landscapes, rich cultures, and lesser-explored wonders, inviting travelers to go beyond the familiar and delve into Brazil’s uncharted beauty.