Best places to visit in South Brazil (Mato Grosso do sul, Parana, Santa Catarina, Rio Grande Do Sul)

Mato Grosso do Sul: The Southern Pantanal & Crystal-Clear Rivers

This state presents the ultimate destination for wildlife observation and ecological adventure. Its unique ecosystems, from the flooded plains of the Pantanal to the spring-fed rivers of Bonito, offer unparalleled experiences. Please be aware that activities here are highly regulated to preserve the environment and often require booking far in advance.

Bonito

River Snorkeling & Floating: Experience the remarkable sensation of floating effortlessly down crystalline rivers like the Rio da Prata or Rio Sucuri. The visibility is extraordinary, allowing you to observe schools of colorful fish and lush underwater vegetation as if in a natural aquarium. It is critical to understand that all tours in Bonito must be booked through a registered local travel agency. These activities have strict daily limits on visitor numbers and are frequently sold out weeks, or even months, in advance. We handle these bookings for you, but last-minute changes are rarely possible.

Gruta do Lago Azul (Blue Lake Grotto): This is a truly memorable natural monument. You will descend into a vast cave to witness a subterranean lake of an intense, cobalt-blue color. Access is via a long, steep staircase, so a reasonable level of fitness is required. For conservation reasons, swimming is strictly prohibited. The best photographs are typically taken in the morning when sunlight penetrates the cave opening and illuminates the water.

Buraco das Araras (Macaw’s Sinkhole): This enormous sandstone sinkhole has become a protected, natural breeding ground for vibrant Red-and-green Macaws. You can walk a trail around the perimeter, observing the birds as they fly in and out of the crater. For the best experience and to witness the most activity, we advise bringing binoculars and planning your visit for the early morning or late afternoon.

The Pantanal (Southern Gateway)

Estrada Parque (Pantanal Park Road): This scenic dirt road cuts through the wetlands, offering excellent opportunities for self-guided wildlife spotting directly from your vehicle. It is common to see caimans, capybaras, and a staggering variety of bird species along its route. We highly recommend a 4×4 vehicle, particularly during the wet season (approximately December to March). It is essential to check local road conditions before setting out, as sections can become impassable.

Wildlife Lodges (Fazendas): The primary and most immersive way to experience the Pantanal is by staying at a traditional ranch, or fazenda. A typical stay includes a complete package of guided activities, allowing for a deep dive into the ecosystem. These excursions often feature horseback riding through varied landscapes, boat safaris on the rivers, piranha fishing, and guided night walks to spot nocturnal animals like ocelots and tapirs.

Paraná: Waterfalls, Trains, and Urban Innovation

Paraná offers a journey of contrasts, from the overwhelming power of nature at Iguaçu Falls to the organized, European-influenced urban planning of its capital, Curitiba.

Foz do Iguaçu

Iguaçu Falls – Brazilian Side (Parque Nacional do Iguaçu): The Brazilian side of the falls provides the definitive grand, panoramic vistas. A well-maintained walking trail offers multiple viewpoints, culminating at a platform overlooking the immense and thundering Devil’s Throat (Garganta do Diabo). For a more adventurous perspective, you can book the optional Macuco Safari boat trip, which takes you on the river right up to the base of the falls for a guaranteed drenching.

Parque das Aves (Bird Park): Located conveniently just outside the entrance to the national park, this immersive sanctuary is dedicated to the conservation of birds from the Atlantic Forest. You walk through massive aviaries, getting close to toucans, macaws, and hundreds of other species. It is an excellent and easily managed addition to your day at the falls.

Itaipu Dam: An engineering marvel, this massive hydroelectric dam sits on the border between Brazil and Paraguay. The standard panoramic tour provides an excellent overview of the structure’s scale from various observation points. For those with a specific interest in engineering or energy production, a more in-depth technical tour is available, offering a look inside the facility.

Curitiba

Jardim Botânico (Botanical Garden): The city’s most famous landmark, instantly recognizable by its iconic metal-and-glass greenhouse inspired by London’s Crystal Palace. The surrounding gardens are meticulously maintained and offer a pleasant space for a walk.

Serra Verde Express Train: This historic train journey from Curitiba down to the colonial coastal town of Morretes is a highlight of the region. The railway winds through the lush, mountainous landscape of the Serra do Mar, offering spectacular views of valleys and forests. It is critical to book tickets well in advance, especially for weekend travel. For the best views on the journey down to Morretes, request a window seat on the left side of the train.

Museu Oscar Niemeyer (MON): An architectural landmark in its own right, this museum is famously known as the “Eye Museum” due to its distinctive annex. Inside, it houses an impressive collection of Brazilian visual arts, architecture, and design.

Ilha do Mel (Honey Island)

Car-Free Nature & Beaches: This protected ecological station offers a respite from the modern world. With no cars allowed, the atmosphere is relaxed, with beautiful beaches and numerous hiking trails. The island is primarily divided into two main villages, Encantadas and Nova Brasília, each with its own character. Access is by ferry only from Paranaguá or Pontal do Sul. We advise packing light for ease of transport on the island’s sandy paths and bringing sufficient cash, as ATMs are not always reliable.

Santa Catarina: Island Beaches and European Valleys

This state is defined by its diversity, from the sophisticated beach culture of its island capital, Florianópolis, to the distinct German and Italian heritage found in its inland valleys.

Florianópolis (“Ilha da Magia”)

Northern Beaches (Jurerê, Daniela): The beaches in the north of the island, such as Jurerê and Daniela, are known for their warmer, calmer waters. They are well-developed with extensive infrastructure and are home to a number of upscale beach clubs and restaurants.

Eastern Beaches (Praia Mole, Joaquina): The island’s east coast is the hotspot for surfing. Praia Mole and Joaquina attract a younger, more active crowd and are famous for the large sand dunes at Joaquina, where you can try sandboarding.

Southern Beaches (Campeche, Armação): The southern part of the island feels more rustic and preserved, offering a glimpse into the traditional fishing culture. From Campeche or Armação, you can take a small boat to the protected Ilha do Campeche, a beautiful island with pristine turquoise water and important ancient rock inscriptions.

Lagoa da Conceição: This large saltwater lagoon is the heart of the island’s recreational life. It is an ideal spot for windsurfing, kitesurfing, and kayaking, and is surrounded by a lively neighborhood filled with shops, excellent restaurants, and bars.

Vale Europeu (European Valley)

Blumenau: As the heart of Brazil’s German heritage, Blumenau is most famous for its annual Oktoberfest, the largest outside of Germany. Year-round, you can visit the Vila Germânica complex, a village-like center offering German food, beer, and shops.

Pomerode: Often called the “most German town in Brazil,” Pomerode is a charming and well-preserved town where many residents still speak German. It makes for an excellent day trip from Blumenau to see the traditional half-timbered houses and experience a concentrated dose of German-Brazilian culture.

Serra Catarinense (Highlands)

Serra do Rio do Rastro: This is one of Brazil’s most spectacular mountain roads, descending from the highlands to the coast via a series of dramatic hairpin turns. The viewpoints along the way are breathtaking. It is important to drive with caution. Check weather conditions for fog or rain before you go, and be aware that the descent is particularly steep and demanding.

São Joaquim: Known as one of Brazil’s coldest towns, São Joaquim is the center of the country’s apple production. It serves as a hub for rural tourism in the highlands, with charming guesthouses and a focus on local gastronomy.

Rio Grande do Sul: Gaucho Culture, Wine, and Canyons

This is a unique corner of Brazil, where the rolling plains of the pampas meet vineyard-covered hills. The state has a strong identity rooted in both European (primarily German and Italian) immigration and the proud traditions of the Gaucho (cowboy).

Serra Gaúcha (Gaucho Highlands)

Gramado & Canela: These charming sister towns are famous for their Bavarian-inspired alpine aesthetic, with chocolate shops, fondue restaurants, and European-style architecture.

• In Gramado, you can visit the Lago Negro (Black Lake) with its paddle boats, explore the intricate Mini Mundo miniature park, or stroll along the boutique-lined Rua Coberta (Covered Street).
• In nearby Canela, the main attractions are the massive waterfall in Parque do Caracol and the impressive Gothic-style stone cathedral, Catedral de Pedra.

Vale dos Vinhedos (Valley of the Vineyards): Settled by Italian immigrants in the 19th century, this is Brazil’s most famous and prestigious wine region. We recommend visiting established wineries for tours and tastings, such as Miolo, Casa Valduga, or Salton. It is always a good idea to book these tours in advance, especially if you plan to visit on a weekend.

Aparados da Serra National Park

Itaimbezinho Canyon: This is the park’s most famous and easily accessible canyon, featuring sheer, 700-meter-deep cliffs that form a dramatic slash in the landscape. There are two main, easy-to-access trails that do not require a guide: the Trilha do Vértice (Vertex Trail) and the Trilha do Cotovelo (Elbow Trail), which together offer stunning perspectives from the canyon’s edge.

Fortaleza Canyon: Located in the neighboring Serra Geral National Park, Fortaleza is a larger and more expansive canyon. The views are immense,