When Senior Travel Specialist Jenna Gordon travelled along Brazil’s Green Coast with Latin Routes, she uncovered a region alive with contrast and character. From the vibrant rhythm of Rio de Janeiro to the quiet streets of Paraty, the natural calm of Ilha Grande, and the chic coastal charm of Búzios, every stop revealed a new side to Brazil. Along the way, she discovered hotels that truly captured the soul of each destination and left her with lasting memories of this unforgettable journey. Let's join Jenna in her edition or Our Routes along Brazil's Green Coast: Rio to Búzios.
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The rhythm of Rio
Jenna’s adventure began in Rio de Janeiro, a city that pulses with life from sunrise to sundown. Between the golden sands of Copacabana and Ipanema and the sweeping views from Christ the Redeemer, Rio was everything she imagined and more.
Her first evening set the tone perfectly. “Fogo de Chão was an epic first meal,” Jenna said. “Amazing meat, great atmosphere, and the perfect way to start the trip.”
When it came to hotels, Rio impressed at every level.
Santa Teresa Hotel RJ – MGallery was her standout stay.
“It feels like a peaceful retreat, tucked away in the hills of Santa Teresa,” Jenna said. “It’s a gorgeous escape from the buzz of the city, with beautiful rooms and incredible views from the balconies and pool. I also loved how committed they are to sustainability and being completely plastic free.”
views from Santa Teresa Hotel RJ – Mgallery
Next on her list was the iconic Copacabana Palace, a hotel that truly lives up to its legendary reputation.
“It’s right in the heart of Copacabana Beach and was everything we expected and more. The staff are wonderful, and you can see why celebrities like Lady Gaga and Madonna have stayed here.”
views from balcony at Copacabana Palace
For a stylish yet great-value option, Jenna recommends the Windsor California.
“It’s a solid 4-star hotel in a fantastic location, with a lovely rooftop pool and amazing views over Copacabana. I booked my fiancé in here when he came to meet me and he was very happy with the choice.”________________________________________
Paraty’s historic charm
A few hours south of Rio, the pace slows beautifully in Paraty, a colonial coastal town full of colour and creativity. Its cobbled streets, whitewashed buildings, and boutique restaurants create a tranquil contrast to the energy of Rio.
“Paraty felt like stepping into a painting,” Jenna said. “It’s relaxed, colourful, and full of charm.”The hotels here perfectly reflect the town’s artistic spirit. Pousada Literaria stood out as a true gem. “You enter through an unassuming door and find yourself in an oasis of luxury and tranquillity. The rooms are beautiful, the food was delicious, and it’s ideal for a special occasion.”
Each property in Paraty offers something unique. Casa Turquesa is beautifully designed with individually decorated rooms, while Pousada Corsario has a serene riverside setting with a pool and gardens. For a more traditional stay, Pousada da Marquesa brings a wonderful sense of colonial history.
A cruise aboard a traditional schooner offered another perspective, sailing past emerald islands and sandy coves with a refreshing cachaça cocktail in hand, the perfect way to take in Paraty’s beauty.
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Ilha Grande’s natural escape
Next came Ilha Grande, an island paradise where time slows down. With no cars and lush rainforest all around, it is a place that feels completely at one with nature.
Jenna stayed at Pousada Naturalia, which she described as “simple but very comfortable, and completely in keeping with the surroundings. The views over the bay from our balcony were incredible, and breakfast was served in a beautiful open-air setting. They even offered afternoon tea.”
She also loved Asalem Pousada, a secluded hideaway reached by boat or a short forest walk.
“It’s a hilly property with lots of steps, but the views make it worthwhile. There’s a dock with sun loungers where you can dip straight into the sea, and we even spotted marmosets playing in the trees.”
Days on Ilha Grande were all about soaking up the natural beauty, walking forest trails, swimming in clear waters, and dining on the beach under the stars.
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Búzios: coastal sophistication
The final stop was Búzios, a chic seaside town that blends Brazilian character with a touch of European flair. Once a fishing village, it now offers stylish boutiques, waterfront restaurants, and some of Brazil’s most elegant hotels.
Vila D’Este was a standout for Jenna.
“It impressed us all,” she said. “The views are stunning, the design is beautiful, and the atmosphere is so calm. It was the perfect place to end our trip.
Almost tying for first place was Vila Da Santa, another gorgeous boutique option.
“The rooms are bright and airy, the gardens are peaceful, and the food is fantastic. The location couldn’t be better, just a few minutes’ walk from the beach and boardwalk. Make sure to ask Xavier to mix you a caipirinha in the gardens.”________________________________________
A journey of contrasts
From the vibrant rhythm of Rio to Paraty’s peaceful charm, the wild beauty of Ilha Grande, and the refined sophistication of Búzios, Jenna’s journey along Brazil’s Green Coast was a celebration of contrasts.
“Paraty may not be a beach destination, and those cobblestones can be tricky, but it’s absolutely worth it," Jenna said. “The town is so colourful and full of beautiful hotels and dining options. And as always in Brazil, pack for all weather. My rain jacket definitely came in handy.”Brazil’s Green Coast is a region of rhythm, colour, and warmth. It is a place that invites you to slow down, savour every view, and fall in love with the easy spirit of Brazil.
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Discover Brazil with Latin Routes
At Latin Routes, every journey is designed around you. Whether you want to explore the lively streets of Rio, sail through Paraty’s bays, unwind on Ilha Grande, or enjoy the relaxed elegance of Búzios, our Travel Specialists can create a tailor-made holiday that brings Brazil’s Green Coast to life in your own way. Are you ready to plan your trip from Rio to Buzios?
Start planning your adventure today and experience Brazil with the people who know it best.
