My husband and I (late 30’s) are contemplating a last minute 10 day trip to South America from USA. SA has always been on my travel bucket list, but need some advice to understand if the pro’s (culture, food,beaches, people ) is worth the con’s (flight cost, lack of nice accommodations, safety issues, transportation as language barriers and need for vaccinations) . Our plans would be Rio 3 days incl day trip to ille Grande, 3-4 days Buzios/Cabi frio(not sure how to drive to get there) and then 3 days in Buenos Aires.

For perspective, we’ve traveled to places such a as Thailand, Carribean/Mexico, Europe, Australia, etc. Other back up options are Fiji or Costa Rica, but don’t necessarily check all the boxes of interest -food, culture, warm beaches and value priced.

Most likely, this will be our last big trip for a year or two...

Hoping for advice from this group. THANKS!

I hope someone can give you good info. Brazil has haunted me ever since I saw the movie of the same name many years ago.

Hoping to get some response. In addition to the safety question, can anyone speak to beach areas- Buzios, Salvador Bahia area, Fernando de Noronha or Costa Verda. Have 3 days to fill. Leaning toward Buzios because we can plan a day trip to Ille Grande from Rio....thoughts???

With about 10 days, consider spending all your time Brazil. There's enough in Rio to fill your time for a few days, especially if you are considering day trips. Then finish up at a place such as Buzios or Paraty if you want beaches. Be mindful of where we stay in Rio; stay aware of your surroundings; don't carry too much cash, jewelry, or other unnecessary items; and take taxis between places at night. While additional caution is advised Brazil is beautiful and worth visiting. You could also pair up Rio and Buenos Aires but I would limit it to just two places. Another good option is Rio and Iguazu Falls.