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9 of the Best Things to Do in Brazil with Kids
Imagine your family cruising through the Amazon River, witnessing the awe-inspiring Foz do Iguaçu waterfall, or riding a cable car to the top of Rio's iconic Sugarloaf Mountain. Brazil, a country full of vibrant culture, breathtaking landscapes, and rich biodiversity, is an exciting destination for travelers of all ages—especially for families. Add in the irresistible flavors of pão de queijo (cheese bread) and brigadeiro (chocolate truffle) as snack breaks, and you have a vacation experience your kids will never forget.
Here's everything you need to know about planning the ultimate family trip to Brazil with kids.
Is Brazil Kid-Friendly?
Brazil is an exciting destination for kids, filled with natural wonders, wildlife, and plenty of opportunities for adventure. If you have children who love animals and are budding environmentalists, they’ll be captivated by Brazil’s diverse ecosystems, from the Amazon Rainforest to the Atlantic coastline.
For families looking to unwind, Brazil offers an array of beaches and laid-back towns perfect for relaxation. Adventure-loving teens can enjoy a range of activities like dune buggy rides and kitesurfing, while younger kids will find joy in exploring family-friendly parks, playgrounds, and beaches.
Brazilian culture is known for its warmth, and children are embraced throughout the country. In most public spaces—restaurants, beaches, and parks—you'll find that kids are not just tolerated, but welcomed with open arms. In larger cities like Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, it's easy to navigate with a stroller, and facilities for breastfeeding are widely available.
Safety is something to keep in mind, as petty theft can be a concern in larger cities. To ensure a stress-free trip, keep valuables out of sight and be cautious with your electronics. But, beyond that, the vibrant culture, natural beauty, and welcoming atmosphere make Brazil an excellent family-friendly destination.
Which Region of Brazil is Best for Kids?
Brazil is a massive country with a diverse range of landscapes, climates, and ecosystems to explore. Families won’t be able to see it all in one trip, so picking a region that best suits your interests is essential.
Beach lovers will find a wealth of family-friendly options in Rio de Janeiro and Florianópolis. If you’re traveling with teenagers who are into art and culture, don’t miss São Paulo’s Beco do Batman, an artsy neighborhood famous for its street art.
In the northeast, sand dunes dot the coastlines of states like Ceará and Rio Grande do Norte, where you can relax at beach resorts or explore the vast dunes on a thrilling dune buggy ride. And if natural wonders captivate your family, a visit to Foz de Iguaçu in the south to witness the incredible waterfall system, which borders Argentina and Paraguay, is a must.
Whether you want to trek through the Amazon jungle, snorkel along coral reefs, or experience the vibrant cities, Brazil offers a diverse range of activities for kids of all ages.
Best Things to Do in Brazil with Babies and Toddlers
1. Visit the Puppet Museum in Olinda
Located near Recife, the historic town of Olinda is known for its Carnaval celebrations and lively puppet processions. Even when it's not Carnaval season, families can enjoy a visit to the Casa dos Bonecos Gigantes de Olinda, a museum that displays the larger-than-life puppets used in the festivities. Your little ones will be mesmerized by the vibrant colors and playful characters.
2. Stay at a Family-Friendly Beach Resort
Nothing says relaxation like a beach getaway. Brazil’s coastline is dotted with all-inclusive resorts, many of which cater specifically to families. Resorts like Club Med, with locations near Rio de Janeiro, Salvador, and São Paulo, are known for their excellent kids' programs. Your toddlers can splash around in the kiddie pools while you unwind on the sand, making it the perfect stress-free vacation.
3. Look Out for Capybaras
Capybaras, the world’s largest rodent, are native to Brazil and commonly spotted in public parks. These adorable creatures love hanging out near water, as they are semi-aquatic. While capybaras have a reputation for being calm, it’s best to keep your distance, especially with young children, to avoid any sudden reactions. Spotting these animals in the wild is an exciting experience for toddlers and parents alike!
Best Things to Do in Brazil with Kids
4. Take the Cable Car to Sugarloaf Mountain in Rio de Janeiro
One of the best ways to experience the beauty of Rio de Janeiro with kids is by taking the cable car to the summit of Sugarloaf Mountain. The ride up is divided into two stages, stopping at Morro da Urca, where you can grab snacks and souvenirs. Once at the top, the stunning 360-degree view of Rio’s beaches, mountains, and cityscape will leave your family speechless.
5. Walk the Boardwalks at Foz do Iguaçu
Foz do Iguaçu, the largest waterfall system in the world, is a true natural wonder. The Brazilian side offers boardwalks that provide safe and impressive views of the waterfalls. Even young kids will enjoy the easy walk and the exhilarating experience of being so close to the thundering falls. Don’t forget your raincoats—getting soaked is part of the fun!
6. Snorkel at Porto de Galinhas
Porto de Galinhas, located an hour south of Recife, is one of Brazil’s top snorkeling destinations. The beach is lined with coral reefs and natural pools that are perfect for kids to explore. Even if your children aren’t strong swimmers, the shallow water allows them to safely see marine life up close, making this an ideal family beach destination.
Best Things to Do in Brazil with Tweens and Teenagers
7. Take a Riverboat Ride in the Amazon
If your tweens or teens are adventurers at heart, an Amazon riverboat ride is an unforgettable experience. Riverboat tours depart from Manaus, taking you deep into the heart of the rainforest. You can choose from multi-day cruises or more budget-friendly day trips that include sightings of pink river dolphins and visits to the stunning Encontro Das Águas, where two different-colored rivers meet but don’t mix.
8. Ride a Dune Buggy in Nordeste
For families with adrenaline-seeking kids, a dune buggy ride in the Nordeste region is an exhilarating way to explore Brazil's sand dunes. Areas like Natal, Jericoacoara, and Lençóis Maranhenses are popular spots for these adventures. Tweens and teens will love the thrill of racing over sand dunes, and the scenic swimming holes you may come across provide the perfect opportunity to cool off.
9. Try Kitesurfing in Ceará
Brazil’s northeastern coast is famous for its consistent winds, making it one of the best places in the world for kitesurfing. Teens can sign up for kitesurfing lessons in Cumbuco, one of the region’s premier kitesurfing destinations. With professional instructors and relatively calm waters, your kids can safely experience the thrill of riding the wind and waves.
Planning Tips for Family Travel in Brazil
When it comes to getting around Brazil, renting a car is one of the easiest ways to explore multiple towns and regions. However, if you prefer not to drive, Brazil’s long-distance bus services are reliable, comfortable, and family-friendly. This can be an excellent option for budget-conscious travelers.
Brazilians are known for their friendliness and hospitality, particularly toward families. Most restaurants offer child-friendly options, including buffet and churrasco-style dining, which are great for picky eaters.
As for health precautions, Brazil is generally safe, but it’s always a good idea to ensure your family is up-to-date on vaccinations, especially if you plan to visit forested or wetland areas like the Amazon. If you’re sticking to urban centers or popular tourist destinations, the risk of illness is low.
Conclusion
From thrilling adventures in the Amazon to laid-back days on Brazil’s pristine beaches, the country offers an array of activities that make it a fantastic destination for families with kids. Whether you’re traveling with babies, toddlers, tweens, or teens, Brazil’s welcoming culture, incredible natural beauty, and endless opportunities for exploration will create lifelong memories for your family.
To plan your family trip to Brazil, make sure to check out these useful resources:
