Brazil is a country that never ceases to amaze us in terms of natural beauty, culture, and history. One of the unique features of Brazil is the variety in each of its states! Each state is like a small country, with its own customs, traditions, and landscapes. From the Amazon rainforest to the golden beaches of the Northeast and the German heritage in the south, Brazil’s states are full of surprises. So, if you’re planning to visit Brazil, here is our guide to all the states of Brazil in alphabetical order.
Acre – A Nature Lover’s Haven
Acre is a state located in western Brazil and is one of the most biodiverse places on Earth. It offers a plethora of attractions that make it perfect for nature lovers – from pristine rainforests to rivers, lagoons, mangroves and waterfalls. It’s also home to some of the world’s rarest species such as the jaguar, giant otter and harpy eagle.
Visitors can explore the stunning Amazon rainforest in Acre, spot wildlife or even take a boat trip to the nearby Igarapés and Lago Januário National Park. With its unique flora and fauna, breathtaking landscapes and cultural heritage, Acre is a nature lover’s dream destination.
Alagoas – Relax and Unwind
Alagoas is a state located in northeastern Brazil and is renowned for its stunning beaches. From the tranquil waters of Praia do Francês to the white sand of Ponta Verde, Alagoas has some of Brazil’s best beaches where travelers can simply relax and unwind.
Apart from that, there are plenty of attractions here including lagoons, nature reserves, old forts and churches. The state also offers a variety of activities such as scuba diving, surfing, kayaking and sailing. Alagoas is the perfect place to escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and enjoy some much needed rest and relaxation.
Amapá – A Tropical Paradise
Amapá is a state located in northern Brazil and boasts stunning tropical landscapes. It’s home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the country, like Calçoene Beach which has turquoise waters and white sand.
The area also offers amazing activities such as trekking through lush rainforests, spotting wildlife at Macuco Wildlife Refuge or visiting the nearby islands.
The state is also known for its traditional cuisine, featuring delicious dishes made with fresh seafood and local ingredients. With its warm climate, stunning landscapes and vibrant culture, Amapá is a paradise that can’t be missed!
Amazonas – An Adventure of a Lifetime
Amazonas is the largest Brazilian state and home to the breathtaking Amazon Rainforest. It’s a great destination for adventure lovers looking to explore some of the world’s most unique landscapes.
From trekking through lush forests and spotting exotic wildlife, to canoeing down rivers and bird watching, there are plenty of activities here that will make your trip an unforgettable one.
Plus, the state is home to some fascinating cities like Manaus and Santarem where you can explore the culture and traditions of the Amazonian people. From its incredible landscapes to its vibrant culture, Amazonas will leave you with memories that last a lifetime!
Bahia – The Land of Happiness
Bahia, which is located in the Northeast, is characterized by its Afro Brazilian culture (from the 17th Century when African slaves were brought to work on the sugarcane fields). It’s famous for its music, such as Samba and Capoeira, as well as exotic beaches and strong history heritage.
Salvador, the capital of Bahia, is famous for its colorful houses, museums, and churches. The streets come alive at night, with entertainment and street parties of great energy. On some beaches of Bahia, the talented local artisans also offer handmade crafts like jewelry and clothes.
Ceará – The Land of the Sun
Ceará is a Brazilian state located in the Northeastern region of Brazil. It’s known for its beautiful beaches with crystal clear blue waters and fantastic sand dunes, which make it an ideal destination for tourists. The capital city of Ceará is Fortaleza (population: 2 million) and its largest city is Juazeiro do Norte (population: 500,000).
The economy of the state is based mainly on agriculture, industry and tourism. Ceará has become a major destination for tourists due to its pleasant climate year-round and incredible natural beauty. Tourists flock to the beaches of Jericoacoara and Canoa Quebrada, as well as the historical city of Fortale.
Distrito Federal – The Heart of Brazil
The Distrito Federal (DF) is the capital city of Brazil, located in the Central region. It’s home to a wide range of important institutions such as the Brazilian government and the official residence of the President.
It also houses some of Brazil’s most iconic and interesting attractions, such as the National Congress building, Buriti Palace and Esplanada dos Ministérios.
The DF is known for its vibrant nightlife, and hosts a variety of events throughout the year such as Carnival and New Year’s celebrations. It also offers a range of entertainment options from cafes and bars to theatres and museums.
Espírito Santo – The Paradise of Nature
Espírito Santo is a state located in the Southeast region of Brazil, known for its stunning natural beauty. It’s home to some of the country’s most beautiful beaches, such as Praia da Costa and Praia Grande.
Espírito Santo also has an impressive array of wildlife habitats that are perfect for bird watching and wildlife photography. It boasts stunning rainforests, as well as beautiful mountain ranges that are ideal for trekking and climbing. The capital city of Espírito Santo is Vitória (population: 1 million), and its largest city is Serra (population: 400,000).
Goiás – A Hidden Gem
Goiás is a state located in the Midwest region of Brazil. It’s often overlooked by tourists and travelers, but offers plenty to do and see for those that take the time to explore it. Goiás boasts impressive national parks such as Emas National Park, Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park and Serra Dourada State Park.
It’s also home to some of the country’s most beautiful waterfalls, such as Cachoeira de Emas, and is an excellent destination for adventure activities like rafting and mountain biking. The capital city of Goiás is Goiânia (population: 1.5 million).
Maranhão – A Tropical Paradise
Maranhão is a state located in the Northeast region of Brazil. It’s known for its lush tropical forests, stunning beaches and vibrant culture. The capital city of Maranhão is São Luis (population: 1 million), which boasts beautiful colonial architecture, as well as plenty of local restaurants and bars for visitors to enjoy.
Maranhão also offers visitors a variety of activities, such as trekking in the Lençóis Maranhenses National Park and surfing in Barra Grande. The state is home to some of Brazil’s most stunning waterfalls, including Cachoeira dos Índios and Cachoeira do Ribeirão do Meio.
Mato Grosso – Nature’s Paradise
Mato Grosso is a state located in the Midwest region of Brazil. It’s known for its vast open plains, pristine rivers, and lush forests that are home to some of the country’s most iconic wildlife species like jaguars, macaws and tapirs.
The capital city of Mato Grosso is Cuiabá (population: 600,000), which is an excellent base for exploring the region’s natural attractions. Visitors can take a boat tour down the Paraguay River to spot wildlife, or go trekking in the Pantanal Wetlands and Chapada dos Guimarães National Park.
The city of Cuiabá also has plenty of restaurants and bars for visitors to enjoy after a day of exploring the great outdoors. Additionally, Mato Grosso is home to a number of impressive waterfalls, such as the Buraco das Araras and the Cascata do Rio da Prata.
The state is also known for its outdoor adventure activities like canoeing, fishing, and horseback riding. With its amazing scenery and abundance of wildlife, Mato Grosso is a nature lover’s paradise.
Mato Grosso do Sul – A Charming Land of Small Towns
Mato Grosso do Sul is a state in the Midwest region of Brazil, bordered by Paraguay to the west and Bolivia to the south. It’s known for its charming small towns, sprawling grasslands, and impressive waterfalls. The capital city of Mato Grosso do Sul is Campo Grande (population: 1 million), which is an excellent base for exploring the region’s attractions.
Visitors can spend the day visiting the many small towns that dot the countryside, or explore the impressive Bonito National Park. The park is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including jaguars, toucans, monkeys, and hundreds of species of birds. Other popular outdoor activities in the area include hiking, cycling, and kayaking.
Minas Gerais – An Eclectic Mix of Old and New
Minas Gerais is a state in the Southeast region of Brazil, home to an eclectic mix of old and new. It’s known for its well-preserved colonial architecture, rolling hills, and vibrant cities.
The capital city of Minas Gerais is Belo Horizonte (population: 2 million), which is the largest city in the state and a popular destination for tourists. Belo Horizonte offers an array of attractions, including museums, galleries, theaters, and parks.
For visitors looking to explore further afield, there are many quaint towns and beautiful countryside spots to discover. The moody Cachoeira do Campo waterfall is one of the most popular attractions in Minas Gerais, while the majestic Serra de Itacolomi mountain range is a draw for hikers and adventure seekers.
The state’s vibrant cultural scene includes lively music festivals and colorful street art, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a unique blend of culture and nature.
Pará – The Gateway to the Amazon
Starting with the largest state in Brazil, Pará is located in the north of the country and boasts the Amazon rainforest, which is the lungs of the planet. This state is home to a 1.3 billion square km area of protected Amazonian forests, charming white-sand beaches and scenic waterfalls. Belém, the capital of Pará, is a must-visit city known for its delicious blend of Amazonian and Portuguese cuisine.
You can also taste the famous dish tacacá, made with shrimp, nuts and cassava flour. It tastes like a mix of fish and peanut sauce. Sample the famous dish called Açaí (a sorbet made from the native berry) eaten with meat or fried fish, attend local festivals and markets, and explore the historic buildings that date back to colonial times.
Paraíba – A Jewel of the North
Located in the northeastern corner of Brazil, Paraíba is known as a jewel of the north and offers visitors an array of stunning beaches and cultural attractions. The capital city João Pessoa (population: 600,000) is one of the most popular destinations in the state. It’s home to diverse architectural styles, picturesque plazas, and plenty of amazing street art.
The Fernando de Noronha Archipelago lies off the coast and is a popular spot for snorkeling and diving. Visitors can also take part in traditional festivals such as the Olinda Carnival, which features flamboyant costumes and various music acts, or explore historical cities like Recife and Olinda.
Paraná – The Heartland of Brazil
Located in the southern region of the country, Paraná is a state known for its lush forests, pristine waterfalls and world-famous Iguazú Falls. It’s also home to some of Brazil’s most vibrant cities such as Curitiba (the capital) and Foz do Iguaçu.
Curitiba is a charming city filled with parks, gardens and art galleries. It’s also the gateway to the Atlantic rainforest and home to many national parks such as the Serra do Mar State Park. Foz do Iguaçu is a popular destination for visitors wanting to see one of nature’s most spectacular wonders – the breathtaking Iguazú Falls.
Pernambuco – An Eclectic Mix of Cultures
Pernambuco is one of Brazil’s most diverse states with a mix of cultures, colonial architecture, beaches and lush tropical forests. It’s also home to some of the country’s most stunning sights including Porto de Galinhas (one of the most beautiful beaches in Brazil) and Olinda, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Visitors can explore the historic center of Olinda with its winding cobblestone streets and colorful buildings or take part in one of the many Carnaval celebrations that occur throughout the state. Pernambuco is also known for its vibrant music scene and visitors can find plenty of live music performances throughout the year.
Piauí – Experience Rural Life in Brazil
Located in the north-eastern part of Brazil, Piauí is a state known for its vast savannas and impressive rock formations. It’s also home to some of Brazil’s most rural towns and villages such as Corrente and Ouro Preto do Oeste.
Visitors can explore these small towns to get a glimpse of rural life in Brazil and take part in local activities such as farming, fishing and animal herding.
Piauí is also home to some of the country’s best national parks such as Parque Nacional dos Lençóis Maranhenses where visitors can explore the stunning sand dunes and lagoons.
Rio de Janeiro – The Marvelous City
Rio de Janeiro is probably one of the most famous cities in the world and home to the sensational Carnival. This state is a must-visit location for anyone going to Brazil. It is characterized by its fabulous beaches, great food, world-renowned museums, and captivating architecture, mainly the Christ the Redeemer statue that overlooks the city.
Take a cable car up to Sugarloaf Mountain, visit the art museums or take multiple beach strolls during the day. Plus, the nightlife of Rio de Janeiro is the most vibrant and memorable experience for anyone who visits the city.
Rio de Janeiro is home to some of Brazil’s largest and most notorious favelas.
Rio Grande do Norte – A Beach Paradise
Rio Grande do Norte is located in the north-east of Brazil, and it’s a beach paradise. It has some of the best beaches in the country, including Praia da Pipa which was declared one of the top ten beaches for its azure waters and stunning white sand.
This state is also home to many historical sites such as Natal, the capital of Rio Grande do Norte and Parnamirim, where visitors can explore many ancient ruins. Plus, travelers can also enjoy the local food such as dried beef, tapioca pancakes and seafood dishes.
Rio Grande do Norte is also the only place in Brazil to see an ancient volcano in its original form.
Rio Grande do Sul – A Cultural Oasis
Rio Grande do Sul is located in the south of Brazil and is known as a cultural oasis due to its strong European roots, which are reflected in its architecture, food and festivals. Visitors can explore colonial towns like São Leopoldo which was founded by Germans or take part in Pelotas famous Carnival parade.
This state has some of the best natural sites in Brazil such as Iguaçu Falls, where visitors can enjoy breathtaking views. Plus, Rio Grande do Sul is home to one of the biggest cities in Brazil, Porto Alegre which offers a vibrant nightlife and great restaurants.
Rondônia – Nature at its Finest
Rondônia is located in the north-west of Brazil, and it’s renowned for its amazing natural attractions. It has some of the best national parks in the country with breathtaking views, such as Lago de Cuniã National Park which is home to many exotic animals and plants.
Travelers can also explore Rondônia’s incredible waterfalls such as Cachoeira da Maria, the highest waterfall in the state. Plus, visitors can also enjoy unique activities like trekking and bird watching, whilst immersing themselves in local culture such as learning about the indigenous people.
Roraima – A Land of Contrasts
Roraima is located in the north-east of Brazil, and it’s renowned for its contrast between city and nature. It’s home to some of the most impressive natural attractions such as Monte Roraima, which is renowned for its unique rock formations, pristine waterfalls and rich biodiversity.
Plus, visitors can explore the capital Boa Vista which is full of fascinating culture and history. Roraima also offers a range of unique activities such as trekking, kayaking and horse riding.
Santa Catarina – The Brazilian South
Santa Catarina – located in the southernmost part of Brazil and characterized by its German, Italian, and Portuguese influences. Filled with majestic mountain ranges and serene beaches, this state is known for ecotourism.
The Florianópolis island offers magnificent beaches, spectacular views of the sunset and authentic local cuisine. The museums, tradition folklore and festivals event showcases a unique blend of European and Brazilian cultures which are truly impressive.
São Paulo – The Capital of Business
São Paulo is the financial capital of Brazil – a bustling city that offers something for everyone. From museums to fine dining, entertainment, and shopping. It is known for its unique gastronomical experience and is a hub of contemporary art.
The state also offers some of the best nightlife in Brazil with a variety of bars and music venues. For those who love nature, a trip to the nearby São Paulo Parks like Parque Ibirapuera with its majestic gardens, fountains and monuments is a definite must.
São Paulo is the most popular entry point for people traveling to Brazil. Guarulhos International Airport in São Paulo received more than 34 million passengers in 2022, and is the busiest airport in Brazil.
The state of São Paulo is home to an impressive list of nude beaches.
Sergipe – An Untouched paradise
Sergipe is a state located in northeastern Brazil and offers a more peaceful experience to those looking for tranquility. It has some of the country’s loveliest beaches such as Prainha, Atalaia, Barra dos Coqueiros and Aruana.
The region also boasts beautiful national parks like Estação Ecológica de Serra das Lontras and Estação Ecológica do Tinguá. With its serene natural beauty, enchanting culture and rich history, Sergipe is perfect for a unique Brazilian getaway.
Tocantins – An Adventurer’s Dream
Tocantins is a state located in northern Brazil and is known for its natural beauty. It has some of the country’s most stunning waterfalls such as Cachoeira da Emas, one of the biggest and most beautiful waterfalls in Brazil.
Apart from that, Tocantins also offers jungle trails, hot springs, mountains and rivers, making it a great destination for adventurous travelers. It also offers some of the most diverse wildlife in Brazil – from monkeys and birds to butterflies and reptiles.
There is no shortage of activities to do here – from fishing, trekking, kayaking and mountain biking to river rafting. With so many options available, Tocantins is an adventure traveler’s paradise.
