It’s curious, but Brazil is often overlooked by photographers, a puzzling notion for anyone who has traveled extensively throughout this stunning country. With its remarkable natural beauty and diversity, I hope this guide will inspire photographers to explore more of what Brazil has to offer.
In this guide, I’ll highlight some prime photographic locations in Brazil while also discussing some logistical aspects of traveling in the country. As is the case with all my guides, this will be a work in progress, updated as I discover more of Brazil and as situations change.
Travel Photography Logistics in Brazil
As the fifth-largest country in the world, Brazil’s vastness can feel intimidating. Combine that with its sometimes concerning safety reputation, and traveling here may seem daunting. However, it’s not as complicated or frightening as it appears.
Getting Around Brazil
Air Travel: Given Brazil’s size, flying or taking buses are your primary options for getting around the country.
Surprisingly, domestic flights in Brazil are often quite affordable, sometimes even cheaper than bus travel between cities. However, this means missing out on stunning landscapes along the way, and many top photography locations aren’t near airports.
Bus Travel: I recommend flying to major hubs and using buses for nearby areas, as they are generally comfortable and safe. However, be cautious of theft on longer bus routes.
Trains: A limited number of tourist trains operate in Brazil; the train from Curitiba to Ilha do Mel, for instance, is quite nice.
Boat Travel: In the Amazon, boats are the best means of transportation. I wouldn’t recommend the local ferries unless you’re comfortable with a bit of discomfort, but upscale Amazon cruises provide a beautiful way to experience the area.
Local Transportation in Brazil
Car Rental: You can rent a car in certain areas, but be cautious about driving conditions and the risk of theft. It may be wiser to hire a driver for a day or two, especially in rural areas.
Public Transport: Public transportation is generally reliable in most towns, with comfortable public buses and an efficient subway system in major cities like Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo.
Uber or Bolt: I suggest avoiding taxis whenever possible due to safety concerns. Opting for Uber, Bolt, or another ride-sharing app keeps a record of your driver, which can enhance safety.
Safety for Photographers in Brazil
I’ve mentioned before that concerns about safety in Brazil tend to be exaggerated. That said, it’s still important to remain cautious as a photographer with valuable equipment in a vibrant but sometimes risky environment.
A good guideline is to avoid isolated areas and limit outings with camera gear at night. Stay aware during the day and watch for anyone who seems suspicious. If possible, go on photo expeditions with a companion.
That being said, I’ve spent a lot of time in Brazil mostly alone and remained vigilant.
Accommodation
Brazil offers a wide range of accommodation options, reflecting its diverse wealth distribution—from ultra-budget to luxury. You can find anything from budget places where you can pitch a hammock for $5-6 to luxurious 5-star hotels with infinity pools.
This disparity means there are accommodations to fit various preferences. However, I recommend that photographers avoid hostels or hammock accommodations unless they provide secure lockers. You can often find great deals at 3- or 4-star hotels, which is where I usually stay.
Best Photography Locations in Brazil
Now, let’s shift our focus to the locations you’ve been eagerly waiting for. In the following sections, you’ll discover some of the best photography spots in Brazil. Please note that rather than specific sites, I’ve highlighted entire regions rich with photographic potential. More detailed photography guides may be available for select destinations listed below.
Florianopolis
Upon my arrival in Florianópolis, I immediately thought I could settle down here. It’s a stunning beach town with an incredible vibe, perfect for photographers seeking great shots.
For the best photos, head to Lagoa, where you’ll find hidden beaches and various picturesque opportunities.
Paraty
For years, Paraty felt like a hidden gem among foreign tourists. However, its beauty is now well-known, offering countless photography opportunities with its waterfront and charming cobbled streets.
Ilha Grande
Ilha Grande stands out as one of my favorite places in Brazil for exploration. This turtle-shaped island near Rio de Janeiro is a paradise, ideal for hiking and beach lounging. Accessible only by ferry or private boat, it’s worth dedicating extra time as there are no roads to navigate between the beaches and photo spots.
Iguassu Falls
This iconic destination indeed sparks debate over which side of the falls is superior. While the Argentinean side offers a wider variety of photographic opportunities, the Brazilian side provides a comprehensive view that’s perfect for capturing the entire falls.
I suggest visiting Iguassu Falls from the Brazilian side, as it’s regarded as one of the top photography destinations in Brazil. One afternoon or morning should suffice, unless you’re planning on capturing aerial shots via helicopter.
Brasilia
When I tell Brazilians of my fondness for their capital, I often get a surprised response. Yet, Brasilia offers an incredible array of striking architecture and is quite accessible for photographers.
Despite the flat and relatively dull surroundings, the city deserves at least a couple of days of exploration.
Rio de Janeiro
Rio de Janeiro stands as one of the most stunning photographic destinations in Brazil—and possibly the world.
Here, you’ll encounter endless opportunities for various types of photography, including street, landscape, travel, and wildlife, all set against one of the most iconic skylines globally.
If you’re planning a photography trip to Rio, I highly recommend spending at least three nights here, as there’s so much to capture.
The Amazon
The Amazon is an ever-changing location and a unique photography adventure. It challenges photographers with its complexity and beauty unlike anywhere else.
While many focus on the region around Manaus, you can also fly to Tabatinga near the Colombian border or Santarem closer to the mouth of the river. Be prepared for both challenges and awe during your photographic journey through the Amazon.
The Pantanal
As one of the top three biodiverse areas on Earth, The Pantanal is a stunning location, often recommended for wildlife photography, especially to capture jaguars in their natural habitat.
Most photographers start their Pantanal journeys from either Campo Grande to the south or Cuiaba to the north. I personally preferred the experience starting from Cuiaba, which felt more organized and served as a better entry into this natural wonderland.
Olinda
This charming colonial town near Recife is a paradise for street photography. Unlike many historic towns in Brazil, Olinda has been well-preserved and boasts a vibrant artistic community, making it a delightful area to explore galleries.
However, it’s essential to note that while Olinda feels safe during the day, it’s wise to secure your camera gear when night falls, according to advice from locals.
Jericoacoara
Once a secret hideaway, Jericoacoara has become a must-visit spot for Brazilian backpackers. Surrounded by enchanting sand dunes, this town has no real roads, necessitating travel by 4×4 taxis and exploration on foot or dune buggies.
While the coastline is breathtaking, visitors are often drawn to the tranquil lagoons nestled between the dunes.
Photographers will find an iconic rock arch nearby and stunning lagoons to capture.
Salvador de Bahia
Very few places in Brazil have the same historical significance as Salvador de Bahia.
The heart of Salvador is Pelourinho, a vibrant, photogenic neighborhood that has a complex past linked to the slave trade, yet is filled with colorful street life.
Also, Salvador hosts one of the best carnival celebrations in Brazil.
Bonito, Mato Grosso do Sul
To be transparent, I haven’t visited Bonito. However, my friends have captured extraordinary images here, solidifying its status as one of Brazil’s top photographic destinations.
Bonito, located in the Mato Grosso do Sul province, is a natural wonder featuring waterfalls, canyons, caves, and grottos—perfect for stunning photography opportunities.
Advice for Photographers Traveling to Brazil
My most significant piece of advice for photographers heading to Brazil is to not let worries about theft overshadow the beauty of your experience. Brazil is filled with fantastic people and sights, all worthy of your lens, rather than your anxiety.
Always back up your photos whenever you return to your accommodation and save them on the cloud. The worst-case scenario is losing your gear, which should be insured anyhow.
Focus on the incredible beauty of Brazil, remain vigilant, and enjoy the vibrant experiences this country has to offer.
Photography Tours and Workshops in Brazil
I often receive inquiries about conducting photography tours and workshops in Brazil, but unfortunately, I haven’t had the opportunity to organize any yet.
That said, I am in the process of planning a wildlife photography workshop that will encompass both The Amazon and The Pantanal. Details will likely be announced within the next six months.
If you’re interested in learning more about this workshop and other future photography tours, please sign up for my newsletter below.
