Best rated and most popular hikes in Brazil
Keen hikers and walking enthusiasts have been advised on the best-rated and most popular hikes to venture in Brazil.
Remitly, who specialize in helping people send money to Brazil, have analyzed the country’s most popular walking routes, based on hikes that appear most often under terms like ‘most popular hikes in Brazil’ on Google, to help travelers and locals plan their next walking adventure.
Filled with scenic landscapes and spectacular mountainous regions, Brazil is the perfect destination for those seeking hiking trails, whether they are a beginner, intermediate or more advanced.
A spokesperson for Remitly comments: “With some incredibly diverse topography, Brazil offers everything from the wonders of the Amazon rainforest to some stunning beaches and waterfalls to explore.
“We looked at some of the most frequently visited blogs and websites about hiking in Brazil to see which routes were mentioned the most.
”Whether you’re an avid hiking enthusiast or just starting out, there’s something on our list for all abilities.”
Here are five of the most popular hikes in Brazil:
- Ilha Grande
Ilha Grande is a tropical island oasis just off the coast of the bustling city of Rio de Janeiro. A popular destination for backpackers and explorers, this island offers palm-tree-lined beaches and is covered by Atlantic forest that offers winding trails to hike.
Depending on your level of experience, there are an array of route choices, with varying degrees of difficulty. A full hike around the island can take up to a week, but there are plenty of shorter options as well. For some excitement along the way, plan a trip to dip in Feiticeira waterfall and the Lazareto Aqueduct.
- Parque Nacional Serra dos Órgãos
Located in the third-largest national park in Brazil, Nacional Serra dos Órgãos, lies Portais de Hércules. This particular trail is named after Hercules because it is believed that his bearded face can be spotted on a cliff along the route. For this hike, it’s best to set aside two days so that you can camp overnight, rather than trying to complete it all in a single day.
Considered to have one of the best viewpoints over the national park, it’s no wonder so many choose to venture this trail to stand on the lookout point. If you need a more challenging hike, you can also opt for the 26-mile hike across the park from Petrópolis to Teresópolis – which is bound to be an unforgettable experience.
- Tijuca Forest
If you are looking for a great hike just a stone’s throw away from the city, head to Tijuca Forest. For amazing views over Rio de Janeiro, the Vista Chinesa hike is an excellent option. Here you’ll traverse through green woodland, before reaching the Vista Chinesa, a Chinese monument that represents and honors Chinese culture and people in Brazil.
This hike is moderate and takes around an hour to reach the top, which is about 354 meters above sea level. When you are there, you’ll be surrounded by the Tijuca Forest on one side and the Restinga de Marambaia beach on the other. This trek is recommended to be completed as a duo or a group, but you can also book tours to learn more about it along the trek.
- Parque Nacional de Aparados da Serra
For those interested in a physical challenge, hiking the Trilha do Boi trail in Aparados da Serra National Park is a great pick. Just under 9 miles (14.48 km), this hike takes an estimated 7 hours to complete, so make sure you are wearing a good pair of hiking boots!
Aparados da Serra National Park is home to some incredible sights, including Brazil’s largest canyon, Itaimbezinho, and there is plenty of awe-inspiring scenery along the way. As the most challenging hike in the park, the trail follows the river and must be booked with a local guide or agency—so make sure to plan ahead.
- Chapada Diamantina
A national park filled with so much untouched nature, Chapada Diamantina should be on every hiker’s list. Chapada refers to high plateaus in the country’s interior—of which there are three in Brazil. With deep valleys and high mountain tops, this park truly offers some dreamy scenery.
For a challenging and rewarding hike, the Vale do Pati region is a must-visit. With no phone signal along this route, you’ll feel truly off the grid here—making it the perfect place for a digital detox. Perhaps best known for its waterfalls, day hikes can also be arranged for those interested in swimming here.
