10 Day Brazil Itinerary: From the Amazon to Rio and Iguazu Falls

Brazil is a country that offers a diverse range of experiences, from natural wonders to bustling cities. In this 10-day itinerary, we’ll take you on a journey through some of Brazil's most iconic destinations, starting with an unforgettable Amazon River cruise from Manaus, moving on to the vibrant city of Rio de Janeiro, and ending with the magnificent Iguazu Falls

Day 1-5: Manaus and The Amazon

Fly to Manaus and check into your hotel. Use the city as a port to explore the Amazon River by cruise. Take a boat tour to see the Meeting of the Waters, where the dark Rio Negro and the sandy-colored Amazon River flow side by side without mixing for several miles. Then, hop on a multi-day cruise to explore the rainforest and its abundant wildlife, such as pink dolphins, monkeys, and exotic birds. Expect to pay around AUD 500-700 per person for a 3-4 day Amazon River cruise. Return to Manaus and spend your last day exploring the city's attractions, such as the Teatro Amazonas and the Mercado Municipal. Take a last walk along the Rio Negro before heading to the airport for your departure flight.

Day 5-7: Rio de Janeiro

Fly to Rio de Janeiro and check into your hotel. Spend the next three days exploring this vibrant city. Start with a visit to the famous Copacabana Beach and the Sugarloaf Mountain for stunning views of the city. Take a stroll through the Jardim Botânico, which houses over 6,500 species of plants, and visit the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue. At night, head to a samba club and dance the night away like a true Carioca. Entry is around AUD 10.

Day 8-10: Iguazu Falls

Fly into Iguazu Falls International Airport (IGR) and check into your hotel in Foz do Iguaçu, Brazil. Spend the next two days exploring the stunning Iguazu Falls, which straddle the border between Brazil and Argentina. Start with the Brazilian side, which offers panoramic views of the falls, then cross over to the Argentinean side for a closer look at the cascading waters. Take a boat tour to get up close and personal with the falls, or hike through the surrounding rainforest to spot exotic wildlife. Entry to the falls costs around AUD 30 per person.

This 10-day itinerary offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and adventure in Brazil. Prices vary depending on your choice of accommodation, transportation, and activities, but expect to pay around AUD 1500-2000 per person, excluding flights. To get around, consider taking domestic flights, which are efficient and affordable. Alternatively, buses and trains are also available but may take longer. So, pack your bags and get ready for a trip of a lifetime in Brazil!

The best time to travel to Brazil largely depends on what you want to do and where you want to go. Generally, Brazil's peak tourist season runs from December to February when the weather is warm and sunny, but prices can be higher, and crowds can be larger. The shoulder seasons of March to May and September to November are also good times to travel as the weather is still pleasant, and prices are generally lower. The Amazon region has a wet season from December to May, and a dry season from June to November, so plan your visit accordingly if you're planning to explore the jungle. The Iguazu Falls can be visited year-round, but the best time to see the falls at their fullest is during the rainy season from December to February. Ultimately, it's best to do your research and decide what activities you want to do and what destinations you want to visit before choosing the best time to travel to Brazil.