2025 was a special year for travel in Brazil and for everyone who chose to experience the country through nature
At PlanetaEXO, we welcomed more than 1,000 international travelers over the year, all looking for journeys that went beyond short visits and famous highlights.
When we look back at what travelers shared after their trips, through verified reviews and feedback, a clear pattern appears. The destinations that left the strongest impression were those where people could move through the landscape over several days, letting nature set the rhythm instead of following a tight schedule.
Beyond the landscapes themselves, these journeys also stood out for the positive impact they create at each destination, supporting local communities, valuing local knowledge, and traveling in a way that respects the places visited.
Five-star destinations that stood out in 2025, shaped by the adventures travelers valued most.
Lençóis Maranhenses
Walking routes that turn dunes and lagoons into a multi-day journey
Lençóis Maranhenses was the destination most often mentioned throughout the year. What travelers appreciated most were the multi-day trekking routes across the national park, where the journey happens entirely on foot.
Adventurers cross wide dune fields, swim in seasonal freshwater lagoons and spend nights in small villages along the way. Many people describe the experience as crossing a living landscape that changes every day.
”An unforgettable experience. Brazil reveals itself here, in Lençóis, through landscapes that are incredible and truly unique in the world.
Franck NicolasFrance
Vale do Pati (Chapada Diamantina)
Multi-day hikes through deep valleys and local communities
In the Vale do Pati, in Chapada Diamantina, travelers consistently highlighted the classic multi-day trek through the valley as one of the most meaningful experiences of their time in Brazil.
Days are spent hiking between viewpoints, waterfalls and river crossings, while nights are spent in the homes of local families who live inside the park. What stays with many travelers is the sense of continuity — walking all day, sharing meals and waking up surrounded by the same landscape.
”From start to finish the whole trip was amazing. The valley is stunning, the hikes were well planned, and the hosting families made the experience even more special.
Dan HeathUnited Kingdom
Amazon Rainforest
From jungle lodges to survival expeditions deep in the rainforest
The Amazon stood out in 2025 for offering two very different ways of experiencing the rainforest, both leaving a strong impression on travelers.
Some chose classic Amazon jungle lodge adventure, combining river navigation, forest walks and wildlife observation. Others opted for longer survival-style expeditions, learning how to move, navigate and live in the forest over several days.
”The lodge and tour were perfect. I learned so much about Amazon, it's people and the wildlife and flora.
Kristina WagnerGermany
Pantanal
Wildlife encounters shaped by open landscapes and rivers
In the Pantanal, what travelers remember most is how natural wildlife encounters feel. The open floodplains and rivers allow people to observe animals without long waits or artificial setups.
Many adventurers mention seeing iconic species — including jaguars — early in the trip, which often defines the tone of the days that follow.
”A wonderful experience in a beautiful environment. We saw a jaguar on the first day and many other animals during the trip.
Valerio GrandisItaly
JalapĂŁo
Remote Cerrado landscapes that reward those who go further
JalapĂŁo surprised many travelers in 2025. The most appreciated experiences were multi-day expeditions across the Cerrado, connecting sand dunes, waterfalls, fervedouros (natural springs) and long stretches of open land.
People often describe how distance, dirt roads and long driving days are not inconveniences, but essential parts of what makes the journey feel real and memorable.
”Sensational. JalapĂŁo is breathtaking. Incredible landscapes, perfect organization, and very professional guides. An unforgettable experience.
Sarah DanflousFrance
What these journeys say about how people want to travel
Across all five destinations, one thing becomes clear: people are choosing trips that give them time to be present. Journeys that unfold over several days, where movement through the landscape matters more than ticking off stops, and where nature sets the rhythm of each day.
If this way of traveling resonates with you, 2026 is a great moment to start planning. These destinations, and the adventures within them, are exactly where many travelers begin when they’re looking for a deeper, more meaningful way to experience Brazil.
👉 Curious to explore one of these journeys yourself?
Let’s talk and find the experience that fits your pace, interests and travel style.
