Brazil is not only the biggest country in Latin America, but a completely different world of its own. With such a massive territory, plus a vibrant historical and cultural heritage, every corner of Brazil is a precious jewel waiting to be discovered and enjoyed. To further praise Brazil, the most precious treasure of the marvelous country is its people. From the moment you land in Brazil, be ready to meet the nicest, most welcoming, and heartwarming people you´ve ever encountered. To only associate the word “Brazil” with its most iconic city — Rio de Janeiro — is to see Brazil through a narrow lens, doing a disservice to the country’s diversity. Luckily for you, AllTheRooms, the world’s first vacation rental search engine, has compiled a fun list of 5 of the best places to visit in Brazil beyond Rio de Janeiro that are equally worth visiting.

1) Lençóis Maranhenses National Park

Brazil surprises local and foreign visitors with landscapes that take your breath away. One such place is Lençóis Maranhenses National Park. Located in the northern region of Brazil, in the state of Maranhão, there is an endless myriad of stunning sand dunes with surrounding pools and lakes of pristine turquoise waters. The best place to stay while exploring the dunes is Barreirinhas, where you can book 4×4 tours and horseback rides and get lost swimming in the magical lagoons.

2) Florianópolis

Rio is truly amazing, but it can sometimes be a little overwhelming. If you’re looking for beautiful beaches, cosmopolitan living, and fun nightlife, all with some serenity, look no further than Brazil’s most gorgeous island city. Floranópolis is located in the southern tip of the country and is suited to all travelers. Filled with activities like paragliding and surfing, the city has great energy, especially in areas like Praia Mole and Lagoinha do Leste.

3) Salvador de Bahia

Brazil’s Atlantic Coast is packed with incredible cities and adventures. One of the most iconic cities in this region is Salvador, which is in Bahia. Salvador is known for being diverse and rich in culture. The perfect mix of Amerindian, European, and African traditions is reflected in the city´s gastronomy, folklore, and art. The old part of town, known as Pelourinho, was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and is the best way to begin exploring Salvador.

4) Iguazu Falls

Paradise on Earth is a good way to describe Iguazu Falls and the surrounding area. The region is shared with neighboring Argentina, rivaling neighboring waterfalls such as Niagara Falls. The sheer magnificence of the view and its magnificent nature cannot be captured in a mere photograph. Not only are the waterfalls a place to fall in love, but the nearby area is a dense forest filled with exotic and unique flora and fauna. With abundant trails, excursions, and activities available to book in advance or once in the city of Foz do Iguaçu, there is a high chance that after visiting Iguazu Falls, you’ll feel like the rest of the world is missing something.

5) Manaus

The world knows Brazil is home to the Amazon rainforest and its enormous Amazon river. This region holds the world´s largest rainforest, along with many species of wildlife, which scientists believe only a percentage of has been discovered. Many people also don´t know that in the middle of this vast natural wonder lies the modern and cosmopolitan city of Manaus, the capital of the state of Amazonas. The city is not only a great access point to explore the depths of the Amazon rainforest but also an adventure. The city’s architecture is contemporary with hints of historical European influences — such as with the Teatro Amazonas and the Mercado Municipal, both resembling buildings in Paris. The city is known for its raw material products, such as rubber, as well as being home to fantastic gastronomy, a vast cultural agenda, and some of the friendliest people you´ll ever meet (as is the case in the entire country).

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