Brazil off the beaten track – 5 great places you shouldn’t miss

Brazil boasts many instantly recognisable sights: the beaches of Rio, the dense jungle of the Amazon, the mighty Iguazu Falls and of course the Christ Redeemer statue, recently listed as one of the new 7 Wonders of the World. There is however much more to this vast land of natural and cultural contrasts. Most of Brazil remains relatively untouched by international tourism, and a visit to some of the lesser known places can be a hugely rewarding part of a Brazil adventure.

Here are 5 such places that are well worth including in your plans:

1. Fernanda do Noronha

2. Chapada dos Veadeiros

3. Jericoacoara

4. Minas Gerais

Minas Gerais shows the visitor a different side to this vast country and adds variety to a traditional highlights tour. Minas Gerais has a well-deserved local reputation for excellent food. Meals are creative, fresh and plentiful using organic food stuffs; a real treat! It’s a quirky area to visit and a real contrast to the popular images we see of Brazil. Guided tours are particularly recommended here as guides often gemologists and can add a great depth to a visitor’s experience.

Chapada Diamantina is best explored from the small town of Lencois (pronounced len-soy-ss). Lencois is a tiny town built either side of a stepped waterfall that is wide enough to require a bridge and steep enough for the water to rush by in the wet season. The Hotel Canto das Aguas is built immediately alongside a stretch of the waterfall. Stay in a waterside room, and you’ll have the rushing water as a lullaby to send you to sleep each night. The town is very friendly and the local people still remain fascinated with visitors, enjoying the chance to talk and exchange stories.

The Sunvil team have personally visited these and other hidden highlights and will be delighted to help you plan the ideal Brazilian itinerary for you. You can find out more on the Brazil holidays section of our website.