Brazil
Surely, it's not hard to believe, but surfing is big in Brazil. And there simply couldn't be a more passionate, welcoming place to host this fervor for the sport. Differing from the rest of South America—in language, dance, culture and even infrastructure—the country embraces surfing (and surfers) with open arms. For instance, a surf school or board rental kiosk seems to exist in every coastal hamlet for the eager learner.
While one might not be traveling to Brazil to find picture-perfect Indonesian style waves, there's certainly enough variety, from consistent, hollow beachbreaks around the states of Rio de Janeiro and Bahia, to reefbreaks south of Florianopolis, catering to all levels of surfer, beginner to, well...a world champion. Pick a state to focus on, bring a couple shortboards, and don't be bashful if dancing and singing in the streets suddenly presents itself.
Don't miss
- Experiencing the city of Rio de Janeiro
- Tasting authentic açai (anywhere in Brazil)
- The nationwide Carnaval festival in February
- Live Brazilian music: samba, to funk, to traditional bossa nova, this experience is essential for music lovers
- Visiting one of the many national parks/camping on more remote beaches outside of the cities
- A side-trip to the UNESCO world heritage site island of Fernando de Noronha
Key facts
- Language: Portuguese
- Currency: Brazilian Real
- Cost of living: $$
Surely, it's not hard to believe, but surfing is big in Brazil. And there simply couldn't be a more passionate, welcoming place to host this fervor for the sport. Differing from the rest of South America—in language, dance, culture and even infrastructure—the country embraces surfing (and surfers) with open arms. For instance, a surf school or board rental kiosk seems to exist in every coastal hamlet for the eager learner.
While one might not be traveling to Brazil to find picture-perfect Indonesian style waves, there's certainly enough variety, from consistent, hollow beachbreaks around the states of Rio de Janeiro and Bahia, to reefbreaks south of Florianopolis, catering to all levels of surfer, beginner to, well...a world champion. Pick a state to focus on, bring a couple shortboards, and don't be bashful if dancing and singing in the streets suddenly presents itself.
Don't miss
- Experiencing the city of Rio de Janeiro
- Tasting authentic açai (anywhere in Brazil)
- The nationwide Carnaval festival in February
- Live Brazilian music: samba, to funk, to traditional bossa nova, this experience is essential for music lovers
- Visiting one of the many national parks/camping on more remote beaches outside of the cities
- A side-trip to the UNESCO world heritage site island of Fernando de Noronha
Key facts
- Language: Portuguese
- Currency: Brazilian Real
- Cost of living: $$
