Brazil Unlocked
As the 5th largest country in the world and home to 14 UNESCO sites and 27 national parks, Brazil is a champion of biodiversity
As the 5th largest country in the world and home to 14 UNESCO sites and 27 national parks, Brazil is a champion of biodiversity with over four million plant and animal species thriving in the Amazon rainforest. Renowned for the most energetic celebration during Carnival, incredible music such as Bossa Nova, Samba and Funk Carioca and hearty dishes stemming from their melting pot of culture, stepping into this world is a rejuvenating and fascinating journey that will take a lifetime to uncover. Once you’ve had a taste of what this vast country has to offer, you’ll be clamouring for more of its marvels. 360 has compiled a handful of the very best places for your next visit as you venture across states…
Rosewood São Paulo, São Paulo
Proudly occupying a historical landmark building with cool interiors by Philippe Starck, Rosewood is the place to see and be seen in São Paulo. Don’t miss their unique jazz bar Rabo di Galo for excellent cocktails, and take advantage of their six culinary venues and two outdoor pools. The team can even arrange a three day journey to the oasis of Maranhão at Casa Lençóis to view magnificent white sand dunes, a lesser known gem on the coast.
Vila Santa Teresa, Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro
Amidst the ateliers and bohemian vibe of this iconic district, the views of Sugarloaf Mountain and the Guanabara Bay are reason enough to stay at this charming boutique hotel. Feel transported to the simplicity and cool of another time, designed with Brazilian roots in mind and rich with personality from four previous generations. The gastronomy is a highlight with menus instilling the family’s favourite recipes, and a bar that will make you feel right at home.
Barracuda Hotels and Villas, Itacare, Bahia
Boasting a community-centric ethos, a sleek infinity pool, a Swedish sentiment and handcrafted furniture by Bahian carpenters, the cultural treasures of Itacaré are on full display here at Barracuda. For the adventurous, go surfing, fishing, kayaking in mangroves or take jeep rides into the forest. Along the ‘Cocoa Coast,’ you’ll find raw beauty and seclusion that stays in harmony with Nature.
Ibiti, Minas Gerais
A self-proclaimed ‘experimental socio-environmental project focused on man and his home, the planet,’ the dedication to sustainability is largely apparent, starting with their rewilding projects and organic greenhouses and gardens. Bask in the open-air cinema, enjoy cycling or walking the immersion circuits in Nature, enjoy swimming in natural pools and under waterfalls, or horse-ride on mangalarga horses for a lay of the land. There is also a Big Family of sculptures which are a sight to behold.
Caiman, Pantanal, Mato Grosso do Sul
Across 53,000 private hectares, come up close and personal with the wonderfully protected wildlife of the Pantanal wetlands, through day and night jeep safaris, canoeing trips, birdwatching, or horse-riding with cowboys. Spot jaguars, giant anteaters, ocelots, blue hyacinth macaws and more – every day promises new discovery. Ecotourism is at its finest at this dreamy setting, with a recent renovation of 18 suites or a private villa.
Hotel das Cataratas, A Belmond Hotel, Iguassu Falls, Foz do Iguaçu
Witnessing the mighty force of Iguassu Falls and the pulse of the jungle will render you speechless, and you’re perfectly positioned at Belmond’s pink colonial hacienda harking back to the 1950s. Take part in their iconic ‘First Light’ walk with Leica binoculars in hand, spend time with the native Tupi-Guarani community as they share local legends, enjoy aerial views by helicopter and a pre-opening access to Parque das Aves for a glimpse of stunning birds of the Atlantic forest.
Awasi Iguazu, Iguassu Falls, Misiones Argentina
Another divine option located on the Argentinian side of the falls, is a stunning Awasi property with just 14 villas immersed in the jungle, complete with your own private guide and 4WD to personalise your stay. Entirely private to your liking, explore jungle trails filled with endemic birds, visit archeological 18th century Jesuit Ruins and encounter local Guarani tribal communities. Using jungle ingredients to enhance local flavours, the Relais & Châteaux restaurant will surprise you with its farm-to-table menu.
Take a deep dive into the boundless wonders of Brazil, and rest assured that your 360 Private Travel designer will weave magic into every step of your journey.