Things to do in  Central Brazil

Deep in the heart of Brazil roars the Boca da Onca. Translated to “mouth of the jaguar,” this beautiful, ferocious natural waterfall is a true hidden gem, with cascading water falling 515 feet (156 meters) over a rocky cliff face into a crystal clear pool. Trek to the falls on forest trails and take a swim—a unique experience for any explorer.

The Cathedral of Brasilia (Catedral Metropolitana Nossa Senhora Aparecida) is the modernist masterpiece of Brazilian architect Oscar Niemeyer—the mind behind much of Brasilia’s pioneering cityscape. Consecrated in 1970, the Catholic cathedral is a visual feast, with its curved white pillars and shimmering fiberglass panels rising like a futuristic crown over Brazil's capital.

Located within a sprawlingfazenda (ranch) 32 miles (51 kilometers) outside of Bonito, the Recanto Ecológico Rio da Prata offers prime snorkeling in Brazil. Travelers float down crystalline rivers while observing some 50 species of tropical fish, including giant dourados and large schools of pacus. Along the shores, exotic birds, tapirs, monkeys, and other animals can be spotted among the trees.

Among the many attention-grabbing buildings of the Esplanada dos Ministérios, Itamaraty Palace (Palácio do Itamaraty) stands out with its dramatic series of concrete arches, which tower over a reflecting pool dotted with floating gardens. Aptly nicknamed the “Palace of the Arches,” it’s home to the Foreign Ministry and is part of Brasilia’s Federal District.

Brazil’s second-largest arena—Rio de Janeiro’s Maracanã stadium takes the top spot—is the place to go for sporting events and musical performances in the capital. The Arena BRB Mané Garrincha has hosted games from the 2014 FIFA World Cup and 2016 Rio Olympics, as well as concerts by world-renowned artists, from Beyoncé to Bruno Mars.

Brazil’s National Congress (Congresso Nacional) building looks more like a futuristic space center than a government building. Part of architect Oscar Niemeyer’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed design, the Brasilia landmark features a central 28-story twin tower—the city’s highest building—flanked by a pair of convex and concave domes, which house the Senate and the Chamber of Deputies, respectively.

Brasilia’s grand monumental boulevard is the centerpiece of architect Oscar Niemeyer’s modernist cityscape and a highlight of the UNESCO World Heritage–listed city. At the eastern end of the Monumental Axis, the Esplanada dos Ministérios features a series of manicured lawns flanked by 17 homogenous buildings, the sites of Brazil’s federal ministries.

If you’re looking for a spot to escape Brasilía’s crowds without heading too far from downtown, South Lake Pontoon or Pontao do Lago Sul is just the place. On the southwest shore of Paranoá Lake, this park affords magnificent lake views, palm-lined walkways, water sports, and restaurants right on the waterfront.

Nestled in the heart of Brazil, Rio Quente’s Hot Park is the country’s largest water park—and the world’s only hydrothermal water park. Here, nature’s warm wonders meet exhilarating man-made adventures. This aquatic wonderland offers a blend of relaxation and excitement, making it an ideal destination for families, thrill-seekers, and nature enthusiasts alike.

The Centro Cultural Banco do Brasil (CCBB) is a leading art and cultural institution with multiple branches around the country. The location in Brasilia is housed in one of artist Oscar Niemeyer’s many modernist buildings, and behind its sweeping concrete facade, you’ll find art galleries, film and theater venues, and a café.