Just back from: Brazil with Hannah

Travel expert Hannah Waterhouse picks the highlights from her recent trip to Brazil, including Búzios, Rio, Lençóis and Chapada Diamantina National Park.

How did you get there?
We flew with LATAM Airlines. 

How long was the trip?
We spent a fortnight exploring Brazil. 

Where in Brazil did you go?
We visited a variety of locations, including Búzios, Rio de Janeiro, the Pantanal wetlands, Salvador, Lençóis, Chapada Diamantina National Park, and Praia do Forte. 

What was your overall impression of the country?
Having not been to Brazil for two decades, and with all these destinations except Rio being new to me, the trip was an overwhelmingly positive experience. We encountered incredibly diverse landscapes, cultures, and climates. While we were aware of the vast distances involved, the sheer scale of the journey really hit home as we travelled. 

Have you been to Brazil before? If so, any notable differences?
I had previously visited Brazil, but only in the south. These locations were entirely new to me. 

Which was your favourite... 

• Place: A tough choice between the Pantanal, with its abundant wildlife, and Chapada Diamantina, which offered a plethora of diverse activities. Ultimately, I would say the Pantanal won out. 

• Hotel: Pousada Rio Mutum in the Pantanal was a standout due to the incredible wildlife roaming the grounds. We saw so many species, including tapir, howler monkeys, porcupine, blue and scarlet macaws. While we didn't stay there, Villa d'Este in Búzios looked absolutely stunning. 

• Excursion: The swimming opportunities in Chapada Diamantina were unforgettable, from snorkelling in a cave to the crystal-clear waters of the lake and the refreshing experience of standing beneath a waterfall. 

What were your most memorable moments?
A few moments really stood out: spotting a possum in a tree and tapirs wandering around the grounds at Rio Mutum, and encountering a collared anteater on a night tour at Araras Lodge.

Were there any surprises along the way?
We were amazed at how close we could get to the wildlife in the Pantanal, while still maintaining a respectful distance. 

What tips do you have for travellers wanting to visit the same destinations?
It's essential to research the climate of each region before you travel, as it can significantly impact your experience. For example, we visited at the end of the dry season, so some waterfalls in Chapada Diamantina were no longer flowing. Additionally, given the extensive travel involved and the need to transit through São Paulo, it's wise to allocate at least three weeks for this itinerary or consider a more relaxed pace. 

Is there anything indispensable to pack or prepare for?
Brazil has unique plug sockets that aren't compatible with standard universal adapters, so it's crucial to purchase the correct adapter before your trip. 

Any local snacks, dishes or drinks that should be sampled?
Moqueca, a shrimp stew originating from Salvador and the surrounding Bahia region, is a must-try. We also enjoyed plantain ceviche. Of course, no trip to Brazil is complete without sampling Caipirinhas, especially the passion fruit variety. 

Any restaurant or bar recommendations?
If you're looking for a restaurant that caters to both meat-eaters and vegans, Joaquina in Leme, Rio de Janeiro, is a great option. Lençóis, Búzios, and Praia do Forte offer a wide range of vegan dining options. Cozinha Aberta in Lençóis is highly recommended for its delicious Italian-Bahian fusion cuisine. 

Sum up your trip in a sentence?
An absolutely incredible journey through Brazil, offering a fantastic combination of diverse regions. However, to truly appreciate the country's beauty and avoid rushing, it's best to allocate an extra week to explore at a slower pace and enjoy more time in Rio and on the beach.