Brazil is one of the most biodiverse countries on the planet—home to rainforests, wetlands, waterfalls, canyons, and a coastline that stretches over 7,000 kilometers. For travelers seeking to explore nature while preserving it, ecotourism in Brazil offers unforgettable experiences that combine adventure, culture, and environmental responsibility.
Whether you want to hike through the jungle, swim in crystal-clear rivers, or spot exotic wildlife, these are the top ecotourism destinations in Brazil you should consider for your next trip.
1. Bonito – Mato Grosso do Sul
Often called the ecotourism capital of Brazil, Bonito is a small town surrounded by rivers, caves, and waterfalls. The water is so clear that you can see fish swimming next to you while snorkeling or diving.
Highlights:
- Snorkeling in Rio da Prata and Sucuri River
- Gruta do Lago Azul (Blue Lake Cave)
- Sustainable tourism with strict visitor limits
- Eco-certified tours and guides
2. The Pantanal – Mato Grosso & Mato Grosso do Sul
The Pantanal is the world’s largest tropical wetland and one of the best places in South America for wildlife watching. It’s less dense than the Amazon, making animals easier to spot.
What You’ll See:
- Jaguars, capybaras, caimans, giant otters, and hundreds of bird species
- Boat safaris, horseback riding, and hiking trails
- Eco-lodges that support conservation and local communities
3. The Amazon Rainforest – Amazonas & Acre
No list of ecotourism destinations is complete without the Amazon. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience for nature lovers.
Top Activities:
- River tours from Manaus or smaller towns like Tefé
- Visit indigenous communities with respect and proper guidance
- Stay in jungle lodges with sustainable practices
- Spot pink river dolphins, sloths, monkeys, and tropical birds
Tip: Visit with certified eco-guides to ensure you’re supporting ethical tourism.
4. Chapada Diamantina – Bahia
This national park in Bahia is a paradise for hikers, nature photographers, and adventure seekers. With its high plateaus, canyons, waterfalls, and caves, Chapada Diamantina feels like another world.
Must-See Spots:
- Cachoeira da Fumaça: One of Brazil’s tallest waterfalls
- Poço Azul and Poço Encantado: Transparent blue cave pools
- Multi-day treks through Vale do Pati
- Community-based tourism with local guides
5. Serra da Capivara – Piauí
This lesser-known UNESCO World Heritage Site combines ecotourism with archaeology. It’s home to one of the oldest human settlements in the Americas.
Unique Features:
- Rock formations and desert landscapes
- Prehistoric cave paintings
- Educational eco-museums and local-led experiences
6. Fernando de Noronha – Pernambuco
A volcanic archipelago in the Atlantic, Fernando de Noronha is Brazil’s most exclusive ecotourism destination. With visitor limits and protected marine life, it’s a dream for divers and beach lovers.
What to Expect:
- Snorkeling with turtles, rays, and reef sharks
- Beaches like Baía do Sancho, one of the world’s most beautiful
- Strict sustainability rules: no plastic, daily taxes, eco-accommodations
7. Chapada dos Veadeiros – Goiás
This park is known for its mystical atmosphere, waterfalls, and quartz crystal-rich terrain. It’s a haven for those who love hiking, spirituality, and alternative tourism.
Activities:
- Trekking to Catarata dos Couros and Vale da Lua
- Yoga and wellness retreats in Alto Paraíso
- Stargazing in one of Brazil’s clearest night skies
8. Ilha do Cardoso – São Paulo
Located on the southern coast of São Paulo state, Ilha do Cardoso is a protected island with rich Atlantic rainforest, mangroves, and calm beaches.
Why Go:
- Sustainable boat tours with local fishermen
- Trekking and wildlife observation
- Peaceful village atmosphere without crowds
9. Cananéia – São Paulo
Close to Ilha do Cardoso, Cananéia is part of the oldest settlement in Brazil and a gateway to untouched nature. It’s ideal for eco-boat tours, birdwatching, and learning about coastal ecosystems.
Eco-Friendly Experiences:
- Visit the Lagamar estuary
- Guided mangrove exploration
- Support local cooperatives and traditional communities
10. Jalapão – Tocantins
A rising star in Brazilian ecotourism, Jalapão is a vast and wild landscape filled with sand dunes, natural springs, rivers, and plateaus. It’s remote, so you’ll need a 4×4 and an adventurous spirit.
Must-Do:
- Swim in fervedouros (natural springs with floating effect)
- Hike to Serra do Espírito Santo
- Camp under the stars in protected areas
Tips for Eco-Conscious Travelers in Brazil
- Choose certified eco-lodges and agencies that respect conservation laws.
- Avoid plastic waste: Bring reusable bottles, bags, and cutlery.
- Follow park rules: Stay on trails, don’t feed animals, and respect quiet zones.
- Support local communities: Buy artisan crafts, hire local guides, and eat local food.
- Respect indigenous and traditional knowledge: Listen and learn without exploitation.
Why Brazil is a Top Destination for Ecotourism
Brazil’s natural diversity is unmatched—from the Amazon rainforest to the Pantanal, from dry caatinga landscapes to lush coastal forests. But what makes it truly special is how eco-conscious travel can directly benefit the land and its people. Every eco-friendly traveler helps protect endangered ecosystems, support traditional ways of life, and promote a more sustainable future for tourism.
If you’re looking for travel with purpose, Brazil has the wild beauty and the soul to inspire your next adventure.