From tropical beaches to historic cities, cascading waterfalls to colorful favelas, Brazil is packed with visually stunning locations. If you love photography or simply want to fill your Instagram feed with vibrant, unforgettable travel photos, this guide is for you.
10 Instagrammable Places in Brazil
Here are 10 of the most Instagrammable places in Brazil, each offering unique scenery and breathtaking backdrops.
1. Parque Lage – Rio de Janeiro
Located at the foot of Corcovado Mountain, Parque Lage is a historic mansion turned cultural center with:
- A neoclassical courtyard and swimming pool
- The iconic Christ the Redeemer framed perfectly in the background
- Jungle surroundings and trails leading into Tijuca Forest
Go early to avoid crowds and capture the symmetrical architecture.
2. Baía do Sancho – Fernando de Noronha
Regularly voted the most beautiful beach in the world, Baía do Sancho offers:
- Crystal-clear water
- White sand enclosed by cliffs
- Wildlife like turtles and dolphins
Climb the stairs down the cliffside and snap a shot from the top viewpoint before descending.
3. Lençóis Maranhenses National Park – Maranhão
The dreamlike combination of white dunes and freshwater lagoons is unlike anywhere else on Earth.
- Best time to visit: June to August, when the lagoons are full
- Popular for drone photography and panoramic shots
The contrast between the blue lagoons and beige dunes creates a surreal aesthetic.
4. Selarón Steps – Rio de Janeiro
The Escadaria Selarón is a world-famous staircase decorated with over 2,000 colorful tiles from more than 60 countries.
- Created by Chilean artist Jorge Selarón
- Located in the Lapa neighborhood
Ideal for vibrant portrait shots with rich detail and color.
5. Pelourinho – Salvador, Bahia
This UNESCO-listed historic district is full of:
- Brightly colored colonial buildings
- Cobblestone streets
- Street performers and capoeira dancers
Wear something neutral to stand out against the vivid backdrops.
6. Iguazu Falls – Paraná
One of the largest and most powerful waterfall systems in the world, Iguazu Falls sits on the border between Brazil and Argentina.
- Over 270 waterfalls
- Dramatic mist, rainbows, and wildlife
The Devil’s Throat viewpoint on the Brazilian side offers the most dramatic angles.
7. Chapada Diamantina – Bahia
An adventurer’s dream, this national park offers:
- Tabletop mountains and canyons
- Waterfalls like Cachoeira da Fumaça
- Blue caves like Poço Encantado
Combine nature and action with wide-angle shots from trail summits or inside caves.
8. Mirante do Avencal – Urubici, Santa Catarina
This lesser-known destination features:
- A dramatic waterfall over a cliff edge
- A glass platform with panoramic views of the valley
Take a photo from the glass bridge for a heart-stopping Instagram moment.
9. Avenida Paulista – São Paulo
Not just a business district—Avenida Paulista is the urban heart of Brazil’s biggest city, full of:
- Street art
- Modern architecture
- Cultural spaces like MASP
Best captured at sunset or during a Sunday, when the avenue is closed to traffic.
10. Praia do Espelho – Bahia
One of Brazil’s most scenic and peaceful beaches, Praia do Espelho (“Mirror Beach”) gets its name from:
- The way the sea reflects the sky during low tide
- Calm, clear water and coconut palms
Capture mirrored water and golden light in early morning or late afternoon.
Tips for Instagram-Worthy Photos in Brazil
- Lighting matters: Shoot during golden hour (sunrise and sunset) for the best natural light
- Respect the location: Especially in sacred or protected areas—leave no trace
- Use local colors: Incorporate vibrant Brazilian elements like fruit, clothing, and architecture
- Edit with care: Highlight the natural colors of Brazil without over-processing
- Be patient: Iconic spots often attract crowds—arrive early for empty frames
Why Brazil Is a Photographer’s Dream Destination
Brazil offers an unmatched variety of landscapes, cultures, and colors that come together in a visually stunning experience. From nature to cities, street art to natural wonders, the country is bursting with beauty just waiting to be captured.
Whether you’re a content creator, travel blogger, or casual Instagrammer, these destinations will make your feed shine—and your memories unforgettable.
✈️ I’m Miles Carter, a travel writer and explorer passionate about discovering stories that maps can’t show.🌍 From bustling cities to quiet mountain trails, I bring you practical tips, unique experiences, and honest travel advice to help you explore the world with purpose.📍 This blog is your compass to smarter, deeper, and more meaningful travel.
Let’s wander beyond the obvious.