Not surprisingly, the country was chosen by Forbes in 2023 as one of the top ecotourism destinations in the world. But what are the best places to visit in Brazil for ecotourism? To help you plan your next trip, we selected the Top 7 Ecotourism Destinations in Brazil. Check them out:

1. Amazon (AM)

Amazon Rainforest – Photo: MkExpedition @mkexpeditions

The world’s largest rainforest is also one of the most fascinating destinations for ecotourism in Brazil. In the Amazon, you can stay in sustainable lodges, navigate rivers and streams, observe the abundant fauna and flora, and interact with riverside communities. A unique and unforgettable experience.

Why visit?
The region plays a crucial role in combating deforestation, and ecotourism can be a powerful tool in raising environmental awareness, as well as helping to protect indigenous and riverside communities.

2. Bonito (MS)

Bonito – Photo: Iago Bernardo @iagobernardo

Considered one of Brazil’s main ecotourism hubs, Bonito is a true paradise for those who enjoy diving in crystal-clear waters, observing aquatic fauna and flora, hiking, and admiring waterfalls. Additionally, Bonito has a strong environmental preservation policy, controlling the number of visitors and charging conservation fees.

Why visit?
At the forefront of Brazilian ecotourism, Bonito sets an example in the transition from traditional to sustainable tourism with an effective visitation control system, ensuring responsible and conscious tourism management.

3. Vale do Pati, Chapada Diamantina (BA)

Vale do Pati, Chapada Diamantina – Photo: Lucas Ribeiro

Located in the Chapada Diamantina, Vale do Pati is one of Brazil’s natural treasures. It offers visitors the chance to see spectacular landscapes, hike trails revealing the region’s unique biodiversity, and have authentic interactions with the local community.

Why visit?
Ecotourism plays a crucial role in the local economy, with tourists staying and eating in residents’ homes, being the main source of income for the region. Additionally, the area adopts an exemplary sustainability model, with homes using 100% solar energy for operations.

4. Pantanal (MT/MS)

Pantanal – Photo: Bruno Henrique G Carvalho @bhc_bio

The world’s largest wetland is an ecological sanctuary hosting one of the planet’s most extensive wildlife concentrations, making it one of the top ecotourism destinations in Brazil. In the Pantanal, you can go on photo safaris, observe animals like jaguars, caimans, and blue macaws, fish for piranhas, and witness Brazil’s most beautiful sunset.

Why visit?
The Pantanal has been central in conservation discussions in recent years. Only a combination of ecotourism and responsible agricultural practices can preserve Pantaneiro traditions and protect endangered species, like the jaguars.

5. Fernando de Noronha (PE)

Fernando de Noronha – Photo: Michele Roth @michele_roth_

The Fernando de Noronha archipelago, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, enchants visitors with its idyllic beaches and marine biodiversity. Adventure lovers can explore the crystal-clear waters and observe dolphins, turtles, sharks, and colorful fish up close. Fernando de Noronha is a must-visit destination for nature and beauty enthusiasts

Why visit?
The island promotes environmental education through wildlife observation, offering practical and interactive learning about environmental preservation.

6. Jalapão (TO)

Jalapão – Photo: Lucas Guerra @lucasguerra

One of Brazil’s wildest and most preserved destinations, Jalapão is a cerrado region impressing with its landscape diversity. There, you can venture through golden dunes, blue water springs, waterfalls, and rock formations. Jalapão is also known for its golden grass handicrafts, typical of the region.

Why visit?
With initiatives aimed at biodiversity conservation, the region has unique features like golden grass management and protection of endangered species like the diving duck.

7. Lençóis Maranhenses (MA)

Lençóis Maranhenses – Photo: Cris Marques @raizesdomundo

 One of Brazil’s most incredible destinations, the Lençóis Maranhenses National Park amazes visitors with its natural beauty and uniqueness. The park houses a rare ecosystem, consisting of white sand dunes stretching over 150,000 hectares, which turn into freshwater lagoons during the rainy season, creating a striking contrast.

Why visit?
It ensures tourism acts as an economic engine for local communities, improving their quality of life through increased income. It boosts local handicrafts, particularly products made from Buriti fiber, like bags and hats, making them meaningful souvenirs and supporting the artisan economy. Accredited guides by ICMBio to enter the park not only show the way but also protect and care for this special place.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

The post Top 7 Ecotourism Destinations in Brazil to Visit in 2025 appeared first on PlanetaEXO.

However, exploring these natural wonders responsibly requires an experienced and conscientious guide. That’s where Lucas Neves comes in, an adventure tourism guide and PlanetaEXO partner who has dedicated his career to promoting sustainable tourism in the region.

Who is Lucas Neves?
At 28, Lucas is a native of Vale do Capão, in the Chapada Diamantina. He found in the profession of adventure tourism guide the opportunity to combine his passion for nature with the freedom of being self-employed. Lucas also works as a brigadier in the Vale do Capão Volunteer Brigade, fighting forest fires, rescuing injured people in remote areas and saving wild animals in urban areas. As Lucas puts it, “As well as being an opportunity to work with what I love (mountains, trails, adventure), in the local reality it’s a profession that allows me to be self-employed, having more freedom, which is something I value a lot.”

Sustainable Tourism as a Mission
For Lucas Neves, sustainable tourism is not just a slogan, but a life mission. “Through practices with minimal impact on the environment and passing on knowledge to visitors, this awareness multiplies,” says Lucas. He believes that sustainability begins with education and awareness. Before each hike, Lucas makes a point of introducing visitors to the unique environment of the Chapada Diamantina, explaining the practices that minimise human impact. During the hikes, he demonstrates these practices in action, showing the positive impact they have on the local environment, not only in the short term, but also in the medium and long term.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Lucas Neves at the Vale do Pati viewpoint, Chapada Diamatina

Sustainable Practices in Action
Lucas adopts a number of initiatives to promote sustainable tourism. He is involved in environmental education programmes in the local community, teaching younger generations about the importance of conservation. In addition, he makes a point of hiring the services of native locals and encourages tourists to buy local handicrafts and culinary products. These actions not only help the local economy but also encourage a form of tourism that respects and values the local culture and environment.

204102578_166952412000473_4171004548329611005_n

2023-10-05

ACV-VC-Vale-do-Capao-PlanetaEXO-6

IMG_4537

cachoeiras_vale_do_pati_87

IMG_0309

Copy-of-IMG_4607-scaled (1)

62f40376-9e57-4a0b-9f77-22b2c00edb3f

IMG_0424

IMG_0402

IMG_5389

The Traveller’s Experience
For Lucas, the aim is to be the link between the client and nature. He customises each itinerary based on the traveller’s profile, taking into account factors such as physical fitness and climate. The focus is always on safety, but also on exceeding visitors’ expectations, allowing them to integrate and give themselves as much as possible to the purpose of the itinerary.

”Fantastic guide! We had a fantastic time with your guidance, Lucas. You really love nature and your work, and it shows!

Ole, from Germany

Lucas Neves and Ole

The role of PlanetaEXO
The partnership with PlanetaEXO amplifies these efforts. “The partnership with PlanetaEXO through the high frequency of work in partnership and the fair remuneration above what the market usually pays allows me to afford training to improve as a professional,” says Lucas. The company is committed to working with local guides and other stakeholders to contribute to the sustainable economic development of Chapada Diamantina communities. Learning English with the support and encouragement of PlanetaEXO has opened doors for Lucas, allowing him to interact with clients from other countries and enrich his world view.

According to Lucas Ribeiro, founder of PlanetaEXO, Lucas Neves serves as an inspiring role model and comments: 

”From the very first days of PlanetaEXO, we realised in Lucas Neves not only a talented guide, but a professional whose values resonated deeply with our company's mission: the sustainable development of tourism and the strengthening of local communities. He became a source of inspiration for those entering or considering a career in sustainable tourism. Two years after the start of this fruitful collaboration, I can say with confidence that our mission has been fulfilled - and we're still only at the beginning. The partnership with Lucas Neves is a living testimony to the positive impact we can achieve when values, passion and professionalism align. We are excited about what the future holds and are confident that this partnership will continue to bear much fruit for the communities of Chapada Diamantina and the world of sustainable tourism as a whole."

IMG_4288

IMG_5389

20220603_081512-scaled

IMG_5058-scaled (1)

20220604_122314-scaled

prefeitura2

208750457_180796134013947_5468114532994215764_n

cachoeiraoporbaixo-scaled (1)

290519774_1169567180566227_846857496999417062_n

IMG_1715-scaled

lookout_vale_do_pati_162_©Henrique-Rosek

prefeitura3-scaled

lookout_vale_do_pati_168_©Lucas-Neves

Challenges and rewards
Being a guide in an area as biodiverse and sensitive as the Chapada Diamantina is no easy task. Lucas points out that one of the biggest challenges is catering for audiences with extremely different profiles, while always keeping his mind focused and positive. However, he keeps up to date and informed through constant communication with other guides and members of the local community.

Footprints of Change
Lucas Neves is not just a guide; he is an ambassador for sustainable tourism and an advocate for the local community. His partnership with PlanetaEXO exemplifies how responsible tourism can be a force for good, benefiting both visitors and host communities. In a world that desperately needs more sustainability and environmental awareness, figures like Lucas are true beacons of hope.

The post Guide Lucas Neves: A PlanetaEXO success story of sustainable travel in Chapada Diamantina appeared first on PlanetaEXO.

Ana Karla, Roberto, Germano, Ana Claudia, Jória, Robertinho e Adriana.

Introduced to Saulo and Gil, the guides who would lead them during the next 4 days trekking in Vale do Pati, the group felt the necessary security to surrender to this challenge. And with their walking sticks, they started the first 300 meters of elevation amid the rain, fog, mud and slippery rocks to reach the first stopping point and postcard of the Valley: the Mirante do Pati.

With open hearts and already thrilled to see such greatness of nature, they were able to experience the first impression of the transformation that awaited them. Their knees were already complaining and tiredness was asking them to go back to the comfort of home, but they didn’t give up. The experience conceived by the group’s leader, Germano, 59, was just beginning… And this is a journey of winners! 

7

Already in the house of the native Mr. Wilson, the group were able to rest and be well received by the family who, during their stay, offered tasty and reinforced meals and the best of the comfort of their home, which, by the way, does not include a hot shower, nor wi-fi, but the necessary to wake up excited for the next day.

The 5-hour walk to reach Cachoeirão from above was challenging, but the return trip would be even more challenging. This is a privilege for those who hike in the rain, the waterfalls are radiant! A shower and a snack renewed their spirits to face a return of heavy rain, slips and trust in each other and in the hands of their guides. It was almost nine o’clock when they returned to the house, exhausted but vibrant. “Open the beer session to celebrate” – said Germano.

3

Vale do Pati trekking is for all ages

11

4

At this point in the trip, they were already feeling strong, confident and transformed. The days that followed were a celebration in the waterfalls and natural pools, with the taste of someone who has just discovered a little more about themselves. On the last day, the ‘grand finale’ of the challenges: going up the Rampa do Pati to leave. A mix of emotion and exhaustion, but the certainty of an unforgettable experience.

Surely, a new way of traveling is now part of the lives of this brave group! And YES, Vale do Pati trekking is for all ages! 

Welcome to our family, PlanetaEXO adventurers!

1

Vale do Pati trekking is for all ages

6

Vale do Pati trekking is for all ages

Copy_of_IMG_1431

271384527_3012764835704365_6777309795183949472_n

Copy_of_IMG_4290

Vale do Pati trekking is for all ages

271134578_305517251354901_5676334597049703623_n

Copy_of_IMG_4232

Vale do Pati trekking is for all ages

This adventure supports the local communities and sustainable travel at Chapada Diamantina, Brazil

The post Vale do Pati trekking is for all ages? appeared first on PlanetaEXO.

But is it safe for women to travel alone? Of course, the choice of destination is the first step of the adventure. In Brazil, one of the most sought after destinations by adventurous women to travel is Chapada Diamantina.

Fernanda’s challenge began long before the 3-day trek in Vale do Pati. Facing many difficulties to get to Chapada Diamantina, this determined young woman from southern Brazil, living in Guatemala, found a way to get there. After all, visiting the most beautiful trail in Brazil was at the top of her bucket list. She arrived at the starting point in Guiné, where she met her guide Lucas, who briefed her on the hike and checked her equipment before starting the adventure. Fernanda didn’t know it yet, but it would be 3 beautiful days with lots of sun and absurdly starry nights.

The mountains and the landscape impressed Fernanda right away and excited her about the adventure of traveling solo in Chapada Diamantina that was about to begin. Walking through the Gerais do Rio Preto plateau she quickly reached the Vale do Pati Lookout and headed towards the Funis waterfall, the perfect time for a break, cooling off and enjoying a lactose-free picnic carefully prepared by her guide. Recharged, Fernanda continued the hike while enjoying a beautiful sunset. What a great way to end the first day![/vc_column_text]

chapada diamantina solo8

chapada diamantina solo8

chapada diamantina sozinha9

chapada diamantina sozinha9

chapada diamantina solo1

chapada diamantina solo1

Waking up to the sound of birds is priceless! The adventure continued towards Morro do Castelo. This trail is considered one of the most beautiful and difficult in Vale do Pati, but not for Fernanda, who reached the top in about 1 hour – usually done in 2 hours. The ascent was quick for Fernanda, but she took the time to explore the caves and contemplate their 360° panoramic view. Guided by Lucas, Fernanda went to Poço da Árvore, another charming place where she enjoyed its natural pools and waterfalls surrounded by the valley’s canyons. Relaxed, Fernanda headed for the night’s stay, City Hall, where she felt at home, pampered as a member of Jailson and Maria’s family.

chapada diamantina solo6

chapada diamantina solo6

chapada diamantina solo7

chapada diamantina solo7

chapada diamantina sozinha1

chapada diamantina sozinha1

chapada diamantina sozinha7

chapada diamantina sozinha7

After a hearty breakfast, it’s time to say goodbye to the host family and start the ascent through the Prefeitura’s slit. This trail can be difficult and is not for everyone, due to its rough and rocky terrain and which can be very slippery and dangerous during rainy days. After enjoying a unique view of Morro do Castelo, Fernanda head to Cachoeirão Waterfall lookout a breathtaking scenery 260m high. Out of this world!

chapada diamantina sozinha5

chapada diamantina sozinha5

chapada diamantina solo9

chapada diamantina solo9

chapada diamantina sozinha11

chapada diamantina sozinha11

“Fernanda really walks fast and was very interested in the stories of the region, so we stayed longer at the last stop to synchronize the descent with the sunset”. So reported the guide Lucas, who was impressed by Fernanda’s excellent physical preparation. Being able to close the adventure with the sunset seen from above Aleixo in the Sincorá mountain range is priceless.

The post Chapada Diamantina Solo? Read Fernanda’s story appeared first on PlanetaEXO.