top of page

10 Best Places to Visit in Brazil for Families with Kids

Brazil is an exciting destination for family vacations, offering a wide range of family-friendly activities and attractions. Here are some of the best places to visit in Brazil with your family, each offering unique experiences and activities for children. Whether you are looking for a relaxing getaway, cultural experiences, or more adventurous activities, Brazil has something for every family.


Keep reading to discover some of the best places to visit and things to do with kids in Brazil.


Skip to:


1. Visiting Florianopolis, Brazil with kids

Florianopolis, known as the "Island of Magic," is one of Brazil's safest and most family-friendly destinations. This island city offers an array of activities for families with children, from visiting beaches to more adventurous activities.

Campeche beach in Florianopolis
Things to do in Florianopolis with kids
  • Relax on pristine beaches like Praia Mole or Praia do Campeche.

  • Go hiking on the trails of the Atlantic Forest.

  • Take a surfing lesson at Praia do Mozambique.

  • Kids can enjoy sandboarding on the dunes of Joaquina Beach.

  • Go kayaking on the calm waters of Lagoa da Conceição.

  • Take a snorkeling trip to Campeche Island.

  • Visit the Projeto Tamar turtle sanctuary for an educational experience on sea turtle conservation.

  • Enjoy traditional Azorean festivals and markets, offering cultural immersion for children.


2. Visiting Paraty, Brazil with kids

Paraty, a charming coastal town between Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, is ideal for families seeking both history and adventure. Its cobblestone streets and colorful colonial buildings create a picturesque setting for exploring.

Cobblestone street in Paraty lined with colored houses, Brazil
Things to do in Paraty with kids
  • Take boat tours to nearby islands and beaches for snorkeling and swimming.

  • Explore adventurous activities like jeep tours to waterfalls such as Tarzan Falls.

  • Experience natural water slides at Tobogã Falls.

  • Visit museums and historic churches to learn about the town’s rich cultural heritage.

  • Take a day trip to the nearby Trindade beaches, known for their soft sand and calm waters perfect for families. Trindade also offers natural swimming pools and stunning views of the Atlantic coast.


3. Visiting Ilha Grande, Brazil with kids

Ilha Grande, located off the coast of Rio de Janeiro, is a car-free island paradise perfect for families seeking relaxation and adventure. The island’s beautiful beaches and lush rainforests offer plenty of outdoor activities.

Turtle swimming in clear turquoise water
Things to do in Ilha Grande with kids
  • Spend the day on Lopes Mendes Beach with soft white sand and calm waters.

  • Embark on guided hikes through the rainforests to discover hidden waterfalls and natural pools.

  • Take a boat tour to go snorkeling with marine life and sea turtles, providing an up-close experience with the island’s aquatic creatures.

  • Explore the family-friendly village of Vila do Abraão, filled with restaurants, shops, and accommodations.


4. Visiting Rio de Janeiro, Brazil with kids

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil's most iconic coastal city, offers families a mix of sun, culture, and adventure. Famous landmarks and beautiful beaches make it an ideal family destination.

Sunset over Rio de Janeiro beach
Things to do in Rio de Janeiro with kids
  • Visit Christ the Redeemer for panoramic views of the city and bay

  • Ride the cable car to Sugarloaf Mountain and spot playful monkeys along the way.

  • Enjoy beach activities like swimming, surfing, and volleyball at Copacabana and Ipanema Beaches.

  • Explore the interactive exhibits at the Museum of Tomorrow in Porto Maravilha.

  • Take a boat tour through the Barra de Tijuca Mangroves to observe local wildlife such as birds, capybaras, and caimans.


5. Visiting Iguazu Falls, Brazil with kids

Foz do Iguaçu, home to the awe-inspiring Iguazu Falls, offers families an unforgettable natural spectacle. Explore the national park’s many viewpoints and get up close to the stunning waterfalls.

View of Foz do Iguacu
Things to do in Foz do Iguaçu with kids
  • Hike the trails of Iguaçu National Park for close-up views of the falls.

  • Take the Macuco Safari boat tour to experience the falls from the base.

  • Visit the Bird Park for encounters with colorful tropical birds.

  • Explore the butterfly house and reptile section, making it a fun and educational outing for kids.


6. Visiting Sao Paulo, Brazil with kids

São Paulo, Brazil’s bustling metropolis, offers families a mix of cultural attractions, green spaces, and entertainment options. From zoos to museums, there’s something for everyone.

Money park in the Sao Paulo zoo
Things to do in São Paulo with kids
  • Check out the São Paulo Museum of Art (MASP) for kid-friendly exhibits and workshops.

  • Explore the São Paulo Aquarium, with marine life exhibits and themed areas like the Amazon Forest.

  • Visit the São Paulo Zoo, one of the largest in Brazil.

  • Spend time at Ibirapuera Park, with playgrounds, bike rentals, and picnic spots.

  • Catavento Museum is an interactive science museum featuring hands-on exhibits on topics like space, biology, and physics. The museum's displays are designed to engage kids of all ages.


7. Visiting Buzios, Brazil with kids

Búzios, a vibrant beach town on Brazil's southeastern coast, is a favorite destination for families, offering a mix of adventure, relaxation, and outdoor activities.


Things to do in Buzios with kids
  • Enjoy the Beaches: With over 20 stunning beaches, there’s plenty of kid-friendly options like Ferradura Beach, where calm waters are perfect for swimming and playing.

  • Visit the Skatepark: Let kids enjoy some active time at the local skatepark, ideal for both beginners and more experienced skaters.

  • Play Mini-Golf: For a fun family competition, try a round of putt-putt (mini-golf) at one of Búzios’ courses, offering a relaxed, playful break.

  • Boat Tours and Snorkeling: Take a family boat tour around the peninsula, with chances to snorkel and explore local marine life.


8. Visiting Bonito, Brazil with kids

Bonito, in Brazil's Pantanal region, is a top eco-tourism destination known for its crystal-clear rivers, caves, and abundant wildlife, making it perfect for family adventures.

Kids snorkeling in a clear river Bonito, Brazil
Things to do in Bonito with kids
  • Snorkel in the Rio da Prata or Sucuri River to observe colorful fish and underwater plants.

  • Visit the Blue Lake Cave to see an underground lake with stunning blue waters and limestone formations.

  • Hike the Boca da Onça Waterfall trail for a family-friendly adventure through lush forests.

  • Explore Bonito’s eco-parks, which offer zip-lining, tree climbing, and animal encounters.


9. Visiting the Pantanal, Brazil with kids

The Pantanal, the world’s largest tropical wetland, is a haven for wildlife lovers, offering families a unique opportunity to experience Brazil’s biodiversity.

Toucan sitting on a wavey branch in the Pantanal, Brazil
Things to do in the Pantanal with kids
  • Stay at an eco-lodge and go on guided wildlife tours to spot jaguars, capybaras, and caimans.

  • Take boat safaris on rivers and lakes to observe aquatic species and birds.

  • Enjoy horseback riding excursions through the wetlands to explore the landscape.


10. Visiting Curitiba, Brazil with kids

Curitiba, known for its urban planning and green spaces, is a family-friendly city offering cultural attractions and outdoor activities in a tranquil environment.

Garden of red and yellow flowers in front of the Curitiba Greenhouse
Things to do in Curitiba with kids
  • Visit the Botanical Garden with its greenhouse, gardens, and interactive exhibits.

  • Enjoy a day at Tanguá Park, which features lakes, waterfalls, and walking trails.

  • Take a scenic train ride on the Curitiba-Paranaguá Train for stunning views of mountains and forests.

  • Experience a cultural performance at the Wire Opera House, built within a quarry.


Each of these destinations offers a unique combination of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and fun family-friendly activities, ensuring that your trip to Brazil will be both memorable and enjoyable for everyone.


Have you visited Brazil with your kids? What were their favorite activities? Let me know in the comments below!

Comments


Disclaimer: Some of my posts contains affiliate links, which means that if you purchase a ticket through these links, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps support the blog and allows me to keep providing helpful content. Thank you for your support!

bottom of page