Discover the best day trip destinations and excursions from Brazil.
Brazil is South America's largest country, offering stunning biodiversity from the Amazon rainforest to iconic beaches like Copacabana and Ipanema. Experience vibrant culture, world-class cuisine, spectacular waterfalls at Iguazu, and the rhythm of samba in Rio de Janeiro.
The best excursions from Brazil.
Imperial summer retreat with palace, cathedral, and cool mountain air set in the Serra dos Orgaos mountains north of Rio
Perfectly preserved 17th-century colonial town with cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and bay dotted with island beaches
Car-free island in Angra dos Reis bay with pristine Atlantic Forest, crystal-clear water, and over 100 beaches
Dramatic granite mountain range with the famous Dedo de Deus (God's Finger) rock formation and excellent hiking trails
Chic coastal resort town with 23 beaches, upscale restaurants, and a village atmosphere made internationally famous by Brigitte Bardot in 1964
Plan based on how far you want to travel.
Quick Escapes
Petrópolis (68 km, 1.5 hrs) and Niterói (ferry 20 min across Guanabara Bay) from Rio. Serra da Cantareira park from São Paulo city center.
Easy Day Trips
Serra dos Órgãos National Park near Teresópolis (80 km from Rio). Campos do Jordão mountain resort (180 km from São Paulo). Angra dos Reis (150 km from Rio).
Full Day Adventures
Paraty colonial town (245 km from Rio, 3.5-4 hrs). Ilha Grande (2.5 hrs bus + ferry). Búzios beach resort (175 km, 2.5 hrs from Rio).
Extended Trips
Iguazu Falls from Rio (2hr flight + park) or São Paulo (2hr flight). Ouro Preto from São Paulo (overnight recommended). Consider overnight for all 4+ hour destinations.
20+ destinations with detailed itineraries and transport info.
Transport options for day trips.
Organized day tours from Rio to Petrópolis, Paraty, and Búzios from R$80-200 including transport and guide. Book at hotel tour desks or online.
Private car hire with driver from R$300-500/day for groups of 2-6, ideal for Paraty wine route or Serra dos Órgãos hikes
Regular bus services connect Rio to Petrópolis (Unica/Faceal, R$30 return), Paraty (Costa Verde, R$60-80), and Búzios (1001, R$50-70)
Car rental from R$100-150/day. Useful for flexible day trips along coastal highway (BR-101) to Paraty or mountain road to Campos do Jordão
Decide the best approach for you.
Make the most of your excursions.
Start early - most day trip destinations are 1-3 hours away and you want maximum time there
Book buses in advance for weekends and holidays when Cariocas and Paulistanos flood popular destinations
Get our complete day trips guide with detailed itineraries, transport guides, and insider tips.
Download Day Trips Guide