Traveling is always an invitation to discover something new, but venturing to unknown cities in Brazil is an experience that reveals the country from a different perspective. Our territory is a mosaic of landscapes, cultures and histories, and many little-known destinations in Brazil still hold secrets that surprise even the most experienced travelers.
If you're looking for beautiful places in Brazil that nobody knows about, get ready to add these names to your itinerary and live authentic experiences away from the crowds. 🌎✨
1. Anavilhanas (AM): the largest maze of river islands in the Amazon🌳
Just 2.5 hours from Manaus, the Anavilhanas National Park is home to the second largest river archipelago in the world, with around 400 islands and more than 60 lakes, forming a veritable natural labyrinth in the heart of the Rio Negro.
The scenery changes completely according to the level of the water: in drought, white sandy beaches appear; in flood, water trails cut through flooded forests, creating breathtaking landscapes.
In addition to its natural exuberance, the park is home to a rich Amazonian fauna, traditional riverside communities and offers experiences such as boat trips, hiking, bird watching and refreshing dives. Novo Airão, which serves as a base for exploring the region, also offers contact with local cuisine and regional handicrafts.
2. Alter do Chão (PA): the Amazonian Caribbean and the crystalline river💧
Alter do Chão, on the banks of the Tapajós River in Santarém, is known for its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear fresh waters, a scenery that has earned it the nickname "Amazonian Caribbean".
During the dry season, sandbanks emerge, forming real islands and beaches perfect for relaxing. Boat trips through the flooded forest, hiking trails and contact with the local culture make Alter one of the little-known destinations in Brazil, ideal for those who want tranquillity and nature without sacrificing structure and charm.
If you want to visit South American countries, be sure to check out our guide to the best months to visit each country!
3. Nobres (MT): an ecotourism paradise with transparent rivers 🌊
Nobres, in Mato Grosso, is a destination that has been winning over those seeking genuine contact with nature. Known as the "Bonito of Mato Grosso", the Bom Jardim region offers incredibly crystalline rivers, perfect for floating among colorful fish, as well as waterfalls, caves and natural spas.
Tourism in Nobres is controlled to ensure environmental preservation, which keeps the destination peaceful and exclusive. Among the attractions are the Aquário Encantado (Enchanted Aquarium), the Serra Azul waterfall and the Lagoa das Araras (Macaws Lagoon), where you can watch the birds at dusk. For those who like adventure, there are options for hiking, float-crossing, zip-lining and quad biking.
4. Aiuruoca (MG): mountain refuge and waterfalls ⛰️
In the south of Minas Gerais, Aiuruoca is an invitation to peace and contemplation. The town serves as a base for exploring the Serra do Papagaio State Park, with trails, waterfalls and peaks that reveal panoramic views of the Mantiqueira.
The mountain climate, Minas Gerais cuisine and local hospitality make Aiuruoca one of Brazil's little-known destinations for those seeking peace, nature and authentic experiences, far from mass tourism. So get your bags ready!
5. Guaraqueçaba (PR): Unspoiled Atlantic Forest and beaches selvagens🏖️
Guaraqueçaba, on the coast of Paraná, is one of the best examples of beautiful places in Brazil that nobody knows about. The municipality is home to the Superagui National Park, one of the largest preserved areas of Atlantic Forest in the country, with trails, waterfalls and deserted beaches accessible only by boat.
It's a perfect destination for those who value contact with nature, birdwatching and looking to get away from the obvious, exploring caiçara villages and traditional communities.
6. Galinhos (RN): village between dunes, salt pans and deserted beaches🌅
160 km from Natal, Galinhos is an isolated village surrounded by dunes, salt marshes, mangroves and practically deserted beaches. It can only be reached by ferry or boat, which makes it a unique experience.
There, time passes slowly: walking along the sands, relaxing in the shade of the coconut palms and enjoying the sunset are the main attractions. Galinhos is one of the little-known destinations in Brazil for those seeking peace, breathtaking landscapes and a rustic and authentic Northeast.
If you want to visit South American countries, be sure to check out our guide to the best months to visit each country!
7. Domingos Martins (ES): Capixaba mountains and European culture🧀
In the Montanhas Capixabas region, Domingos Martins is a destination that combines a mountain climate, German and Italian influence, trails, waterfalls and irresistible cuisine. The Pedra Azul State Park is the local postcard, with its imposing rock formation and trails that lead to incredible viewpoints.
In addition to the landscapes, the town offers small producers of cheeses, coffees and liqueurs, as well as typical festivals and a charming town center. If you're looking for undiscovered cities in Brazil with European charm and exuberant nature, Domingos Martins is the perfect choice.
Once you've chosen your next destination among these unknown cities in Brazil, there's nothing better than ensuring freedom and practicality to explore every corner.
With Happy Tours, you can book your car simply, with no surprise fees and easy pick-up directly at the airport. This way, you can enjoy every landscape, inn and urban activity at your own pace, without depending on timetables or transportation limitations.
Check out the options from the world's leading rental companies and choose the ideal vehicle for your trip, whether it's an economy car, SUV or even a minivan for traveling with the family.
The process is uncomplicated, payment is made only at pick-up and you also have 24-hour assistance to travel with peace of mind. Book with Happy Tours and go further with every itinerary - because good travel starts with the right choice of car!
