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If you’re on an adventure and looking to cycle around the world on your bike, Brazil is one place that you do not want to miss out on. The result of hundreds of years of migration, colonization by European nations, and Brazil’s very own indigenous people have turned the country into a melting pot that is rich in history, culture, sights and sounds. In today’s article, we have a look at 7 destinations that you should add to your cycling bucket list when traveling around Brazil, so read on to find out more!
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- Cristo Redentor
More commonly referred to as Brazil’s iconic Christ The Redeemer, Cristo Redentor is a sight that you absolutely cannot miss when traveling to Brazil. This giant statue of Jesus Christ overlooks the city from a towering 709-meter summit of Corcovado and is one of Brazil’s top tourist destinations. By cycling through the Tijuca National Park, you will be able to see this astonishing monument without the usual tourist crowds. Morning is the perfect time to cycle down so that you catch the statue in all its glory as the morning light shines itself over it.
- Copacabana
The subject of many movies and songs, Copacabana is a world-renowned area of Brazil that is rich in white sand, surf and many other attractions. This fashionable destination follows Avenida Nossa Senhora de Copacabana and one of the great things about it is that the beach is separated from surrounding buildings and traffic by a broad promenade. Rio De Janeiro is often referred to as one of the world’s best cities for cycling, so prepare yourself for a Brazilian adventure unlike any other!
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- Ipanema
Just after you’re done riding through Copacabana, you’ll find yourself located on the beaches of Ipanema. Ipanema’s seafront promenade is home to numerous cafes, restaurants, art galleries, cinemas and avant-garde theatre. If you happen to cycle in on a Sunday, Praca General Osorio hosts the Sunday Feira de Artesanato de Ipanema which features music, arts and crafts, and plenty of delicious local foods that will give you the energy you need for the rest of the day!
- Espirito Santo
Espirito Santo is a place that is often overlooked by tourists, making it the perfect cycling destination for anyone who wants respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. Tucked between Rio de Janeiro and Bahia, treat yourself to a ride that follows up the coast and leads you to a bounty of fresh local pineapple and sugarcane. One thing to note is that it is important to pay attention to nature reserves along the way as they are homes to panthers, snakes and other exotic animals.
- Chapada Diamantina
Nature lovers are in for a treat because Chapada Diamantina is by far one of the most amazing natural parks in Brazil. Rich in rocky canyons, open land and underground lagoons, this is one of the most popular routes for mountain biking and cycling. The entire course is 270 kilometers long and you’ll be able to visit a variety of attractions along the way, including Poço Azul — a pool of water that naturally glistens in an immense bright blue that will take your breath away.
- Jardim Botânico
Jardim Botânico, also known as Brazil’s botanical gardens, covers over 350 acres of land at the foot of Corcovado. Cycle through this beauty and don’t forget to catch a number of sights along the way, including the Japanese Gardens with their koi ponds and Bonsai as well as the world-famous Orchidarium — an iron-and-glass greenhouse that is home to over 2,000 species of orchids. If you’re lucky, you’ll also catch some Toucans and adorable Marmoset Monkeys along the way!
- Estrada Velha Campinas
Last but not least, for those who want to explore the countryside, Estrada Velha Campinas is the perfect biking destination that covers a distance of almost 130 kilometers. This long and easy going route is paved with quality asphalt roads that will ensure you a smooth and comfortable ride all the way through. At the same time, you’ll be met by gorgeous scenery and a few easy climbs that trace over the Anhanguera and Bandeirantes highways.
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Brazil is arguably one of the most beautiful and culture-rich countries in the world, so we hope that you get to explore at least one of these must-see destinations on your next exploration trip! All the best and safe cycling!
