The country’s smallest and most economically developed region, South Brazil is also one of its most beautiful. Comprising the states of Paraná, Santa Catarina, and Rio Grande do Sul—and home to the cities of Curitiba, Florianópolis, Blumenau, and Porto Alegre—it offers an expansive sense of scale. The best thing to do in South Brazil is immerse yourself in the natural splendor—whether that's its pristine beaches, idyllic islands, lush rainforests, deep canyons, verdant mountains, or thundering waterfalls, including Iguazu Falls, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
December to March—summer in these southerly climes—is the high season in South Brazil. It's when its beaches are at their best and are likely to be crowded. That’s especially true over Christmas and New Year’s, as well as during the always-lively Carnaval season. If you want warmth but less crush, aim for the October and November shoulder season—and swing by Blumenau’s Oktoberfest, one of the world’s largest.
There are a number of international and domestic airports located all across South Brazil, including in major hubs like Curitiba, Florianópolis, Foz do Iguaçu, and Porto Alegre. Brazil does not maintain a network of intercity trains, so low-cost short-haul flights are the best way to hop between destinations. Intercity bus routes are also available, and some cities have their own public transit options, although taxis and rideshare services tend to be both cheap and plentiful.
Although Brazil is most associated with cachaça-based caipirinhas and frothy mugs of chope (draft beer), South Brazil also boasts a premium, internationally celebrated wine scene. The Serra Gaúcha region in Rio Grande do Sul is especially renowned, thanks to its elevation and cooler climate. It is home to the country’s first official appellation, Vale dos Vinhedos. Brazil excels at high-quality sparkling wine—head to the Pinto Bandeira appellation for some of the best.
