Summary
Brazil is a beautiful country, renowned not only for its stunning natural landscapes but also for its vibrant art and folklore. Visitors will discover an array of unique souvenirs that reflect the rich culture of music, art, and crafts. This guide will help you identify the best souvenirs to bring back from your vacation in Brazil.
1. Musical Instruments
Brazil is a nation steeped in musical tradition. While Samba is perhaps the most famous genre, there are many others, including percussion bands like Olodum and the rhythmic sounds accompanying capoeira gatherings. Beautifully crafted musical instruments are available at various price points, with the berimbau being a standout choice. This colorful, handmade instrument, essential to capoeira music, can be found in handicraft shops and markets, even in smaller sizes for children. Don’t worry about traveling with a berimbau; Brazilian airports are accustomed to passengers checking them as luggage.
2. Ceramics
Ceramics hold a special place in Brazilian culture, with each region showcasing unique styles. In Minas Gerais, for example, look for colorful busts symbolizing single women awaiting romantic pursuits. Bahia offers Bahiana statues with striking traditional attire. You will find these ceramics in handicraft markets across major cities such as Rio and Sao Paulo, along with rural areas depicting popular themes like chickens and cows, particularly during local festivals.
3. Cachaça
Cachaça (pronounced kah-SHAH-sah) is Brazil’s iconic spirit, crafted from sugarcane since the colonial era. A bottle of high-quality cachaça can serve as an excellent souvenir, especially for those looking to recreate authentic caipirinhas at home. Prices range widely, with cost often reflecting quality. Preferably, visit a distillery where you can taste different varieties and purchase directly from smaller producers known for their exceptional products.
4. Soapstone
Soapstone carvings are prevalent in Brazilian souvenir shops, originating notably from Minas Gerais. In towns like Ouro Preto, artisans skillfully carve intricate designs, creating beautiful boxes, candlesticks, and medallions at modest prices.
5. Divino de Espirito Santo
These dove carvings, ranging in size from small to large, are prominent in Minas Gerais and symbolize the Holy Spirit. They are traditionally displayed above doorways for luck and protection. Artisans’ pieces can vary in price, but if in Minas Gerais, particularly Tiradentes, you should easily find an elegant dove for under 40 reais.
6. Other Arts and Crafts
Brazil’s diversity ensures a wide range of arts and crafts await visitors. For authentic items, seek out FUNAI shops, which support indigenous artisans. Additionally, explore “feirinhas hippies” markets, typically held on weekends, for unique creations including woodwork, hand-woven textiles, and eco-friendly crafts.
7. Coffee and Food
As the world’s largest coffee producer, Brazil boasts an extensive selection of high-quality coffee. While commercially available brands are good, the best options come from smaller producers in regions like Sao Paulo and Minas Gerais. For delicious food souvenirs, consider jars of doce de leite, pacoquinhas, pe de moleque, fruit jams made from Brazilian fruits, and goiabada (guava paste). These items are readily available at grocery stores throughout Brazil.
