Visiting Brazil, it’s not just a trip – it’s an experience that stays with you long after you’ve left. And it’s no wonder that leaving Brazil is often the hardest part of the journey. But the good news is, you can take a piece of this of it with you through a variety of souvenirs.
Brazil’s immense size and rich cultural diversity mean that traditions and styles vary across its many regions. And with so much diversity and so many Options – tailored to your preferences – it’s only natural to ask: What to Buy in Brazil?
From the outset, I can tell you that the most traditional and popular souvenirs among foreigners include Havaianas flip-flops, cachaça, Brazilian coffee, nuts, chocolates, miniature landmarks, keychains and magnets, mugs and glasses, hammocks, sarongs, colorful sand bottles, and Lord of Bonfim Ribbons.
In this guide, I’ll take you through the very best Brazilian souvenirs, showing that beyond the classics, there are many other wonderful options to discover. Let’s dive in!
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No trip to Brazil is complete without picking up a pair (or several) of Havaianas, the world-famous flip-flops that have become a global fashion statement and are considered one of the best Brazilian souvenirs.
Originally created in 1962, Havaianas are inspired by the simplicity of Japanese zori sandals, but with a uniquely Brazilian twist – vibrant colors, bold patterns, and unmatched comfort.
Havaianas come in a variety of designs, from classic solid colors to limited-edition prints inspired by Brazilian culture and nature. They are practical and versatile, making them a great gift for anyone, from kids to adults.
Where to Buy Them in Brazil: You’ll find Havaianas everywhere – from local markets to shopping malls. For the best variety, visit official Havaianas stores, where you can customize your pair with unique straps and embellishments. Prices are also significantly cheaper in Brazil compared to international markets, so stock up!
2. Cachaça
Cachaça, Brazil’s traditional alcoholic sugarcane spirit, is one of the most popular items purchased by foreigners. Known as the key ingredient in the famous caipirinha cocktail, cachaça comes in a variety of styles, from clear unaged versions to premium aged options with rich and complex flavors.
Cachaça comes in two main types – white (prata), typically used in cocktails, and aged (envelhecida), which is sipped neat or used in premium cocktails. The aged variety, stored in barrels made from Brazilian woods like amburana or jequitibá, has a complex, aromatic flavor.
Where to Buy Cachaça in Brazil: Look for high-quality cachaças in specialty stores, markets, or directly at distilleries if you’re exploring regions like Minas Gerais, known for its artisanal production. Popular brands include Ypióca, Velho Barreiro, and premium options like Anísio Santiago, Cachaça da Tulha or Weber Haus.
3. Coffee
As the world’s largest coffee producer, Brazil is synonymous with high-quality coffee. Brazilian coffee isn’t just a beverage – it’s an experience, with rich aromas and flavors. Whether you’re a casual drinker or a coffee connoisseur, bringing Brazilian coffee home is a must.
Where to Buy Coffee in Brazil:
- Specialty Coffee Shops: Look for freshly roasted beans in boutique shops. Brands like Café Orfeu, Dutra, Baggio, Santa Mônica, and Santo Grão offer premium options.
- Local Markets: Markets often feature small-scale producers with unique, locally grown beans.
- Supermarkets: Affordable, high-quality packaged coffee, such as Café 3 Corações Gourmet or Melitta, is widely available and makes for a convenient gift.
4. Canga
A canga (sarong) is a practical souvenir often used on Brazil’s beaches. Lightweight and colorful, it’s a useful item you can continue to enjoy after your trip, offering a reminder of Brazil’s beach culture.
Cangas are versatile and practical, serving as a beach cover-up, towel, picnic blanket, or even a decorative wall hanging. Their lightweight fabric makes them easy to carry, and they barely take up space in your luggage.
You can buy a canga in Brazil from beach vendors selling them directly on the beaches, at local markets and souvenir shops with a wide selection of designs, or in boutique stores like Farm Rio for higher-quality fabrics and exclusive prints.
5. Bikinis, Swimwear, and Trunks
Brazilian swimwear is known for its smaller bikinis, practical sungas (men’s swim trunks), and versatile maiôs (one-piece swimsuits). These items go beyond functionality, representing Brazil’s beach culture and lifestyle.
Popular Swimwear Styles:
- Bikini: Known for their bold patterns and flattering fits, Brazilian bikinis come in different styles like triangular tops, strapless bandeaus, and high-waisted bottoms.
- Sunga: A staple for Brazilian men, these snug-fitting swim trunks provide a stylish and practical option for beachwear.
- Maiô (One-Piece): Modern one-piece swimsuits combine elegance with beautiful designs, often featuring cutouts, deep necklines, or asymmetrical shapes.
You can buy Brazilian swimwear from specialty brands like Sage, Salinas, Lenny Niemeyer, and Blue Man for premium quality and fashionable designs, at local boutiques in beach towns and cities offering unique, locally made options at competitive prices, or in popular tourist markets with a wide range of affordable and colorful styles.
6. Hammocks
In Brazil, hammocks (redes) are more than just a place to rest – they’re a symbol of relaxation, tradition, and cultural identity. Found across the country, especially in the North and Northeast, hammocks are a staple in Brazilian homes and a popular souvenir.
You can buy hammocks in markets and fairs like the Feira de São Cristóvão in Rio de Janeiro or markets in Fortaleza, in specialty stores in the Northeast, such as those in Ceará known for handmade hammocks, or from artisan cooperatives that support local communities and offer authentic craftsmanship.
7. Beach Bags
Beach bags and tote bags with local designs are a useful way to bring a piece of Brazil with you. Decorated with prints inspired by Brazilian landscapes, wildlife, or cultural themes, they are great for the beach or everyday use.
Popular Types of Beach Bags:
- Canvas Totes: Featuring colorful prints or hand-painted designs, canvas bags are lightweight and versatile.
- Printed Bags: Designs inspired by Brazil’s flora and fauna, such as tropical flowers or parrots, make these bags stand out.
You can find beach bags from beachfront vendors in coastal towns, at markets and fairs or artisan fairs in Salvador for unique handmade pieces, and in boutiques in popular tourist areas offering high-quality and designer options with Brazilian themes.
8. Colored Sand Bottles
Garrafas de Areia Colorida, or colored sand bottles, are a distinctive craft from Brazil, most famously created in the beaches and artisan communities of Natal and other areas in the Northeast.
These bottles feature layers of colored sand arranged into beautiful patterns, landscapes, and designs that reflect the natural beauty of Brazil.
How Sand Art Bottles Are Made: The process involves using naturally dyed sand from local sources. Artisans layer the sand in glass bottles, often using sticks or wires to manipulate it into designs. Common themes include tropical scenery, cultural motifs, and even personalized names or messages.
Where to Find Sand Art Bottles:
- Natal and the Northeast: This region is the heart of the sand art tradition, with many shops and stalls along beaches like Ponta Negra.
- Local Markets: Markets and fairs across Brazil, especially in tourist hubs, often feature garrafas de areia colorida as part of their artisan offerings.
- Artisan Shops: Specialty stores and cooperatives sometimes allow customers to request custom designs.
9. Soccer Jerseys
In Brazil, soccer is more than a sport – it’s a way of life. Bringing home a soccer jersey from Brazil isn’t just a souvenir; it’s a symbol of the country’s passion for the game.
Whether you’re a fan of the Brazilian national team or intrigued by the legendary local clubs, a soccer jersey is the perfect keepsake for football enthusiasts.
You can buy authentic jerseys in Brazil at official club stores located in stadiums or dedicated shops, in sportswear stores like Centauro or official Nike and Adidas outlets, and in local markets offering more affordable replicas, though authenticity should be checked if it matters to you.
10. Homemade Brazilian Sweets
Brazil’s culinary traditions are showcased in its homemade sweets. Made with local ingredients, these traditional treats highlight the flavors of different regions. They can be enjoyed as a snack during your trip or taken home as a souvenir to remember Brazil.
Popular Homemade Sweets to Try:
- Brigadeiro: A classic Brazilian chocolate truffle made with condensed milk, cocoa, and butter, rolled in chocolate sprinkles.
- Cocada: This coconut-based treat comes in a variety of forms, from chewy to creamy, and often includes regional twists like condensed milk or tropical fruits.
- Doce de Leite: Creamy caramel-like milk spread, perfect for spreading on bread or enjoying by the spoonful.
- Castanhas Caramelizadas: Caramelized nuts, often cashews or Brazil nuts, coated with a crunchy, sweet glaze.
- Bolo de Rolo: A rolled sponge cake filled with guava paste, resembling a Swiss roll but with thinner, more delicate layers.
- Doce de Abóbora: Sweetened pumpkin dessert, often cooked with coconut for added flavor.
- Goiabada: A thick, sweet guava paste, perfect when paired with cheese in the famous combination known as Romeo and Juliet.
- Doce de Banana: A sticky, sweet banana confection, often served in slices or blocks.
- Doce de Caju: A sweet made from cashew fruit, often with a smooth, rich texture and a unique tangy flavor.
You can buy it at local markets and fairs, which are the best places to find freshly made, authentic sweets crafted by local artisans. Specialty stores are another great option, offering regional delicacies that ensure high-quality and well-prepared items.
Attention: If you have food allergies, be cautious, as some sweets (such as those made with peanuts or milk) may trigger reactions. Additionally, check your country’s regulations on importing food items to avoid any issues.
11. Brazilian Nuts
Brazil offers a variety of nuts that highlight the country’s natural resources. From Brazil nuts to cashews, these nuts are a delicious snack and a versatile souvenir that represent Brazil’s biodiversity.
Many of these nuts are native to the Amazon rainforest or other regions of Brazil, giving them a distinctive flavor and cultural significance.
Popular Brazilian Nuts to Try:
- Castanha-do-Pará (Brazil Nut): Known for its rich, creamy flavor, the Brazil nut is native to the Amazon and often enjoyed raw, roasted, or coated in chocolate.
- Castanha de Caju (Cashew): Brazil produces high-quality cashews, which are commonly sold roasted, salted, or caramelized.
- Amendoim (Peanut): A favorite snack, peanuts are often sold roasted, spiced, or covered in chocolate or sugar coatings.
- Mixed Nuts: Some stores offer mixed packages of Brazil nuts, cashews, and peanuts, perfect for sampling different varieties.
You can find fresh nuts at local markets, such as Mercado Ver-o-Peso in Belém or Mercado Municipal in São Paulo; in specialty stores, where gourmet shops offer high-quality nuts in elegant packaging, perfect for gifts; and in supermarkets, which stock packaged nuts that are convenient for traveling.
12. Fine Artisanal Chocolates
Brazil is known for its rich cacao heritage, and artisanal chocolates represent the pinnacle of this tradition. Brands like Dengo and other boutique chocolatiers offer premium chocolates made with high-quality ingredients, often sourced directly from small producers.
Many brands incorporate local ingredients like cupuaçu, açaí, and Brazil nuts, creating distinctly Brazilian flavor profiles.
Top Brazilian chocolate brands include Dengo Chocolates, AMMA Chocolate, and Chocolat du Jour, along with other notable names like Kopenhagen and Nugali, offering a variety of high-quality options.
You can buy artisanal chocolates in specialty shops like Dengo or Chocolat du Jour in cities such as São Paulo, Salvador, or Rio de Janeiro, as well as at artisan markets and fairs, where small chocolatiers offer locally sourced products.
13. Popular Chocolates and Treats
Brazil offers a variety of chocolates and confections that are loved by locals and visitors alike. These are some of the most popular and affordable chocolates, widely available in any supermarket, yet appreciated by foreigners.
Popular Brazilian Chocolates and Treats:
- Sonho de Valsa: This famous chocolate-covered candy features a creamy, nut-filled center wrapped in a crispy shell. Loved across Brazil, it’s a symbol of affection and a favorite gift.
- Paçoquinha: A small, crumbly peanut sweet made from ground peanuts, sugar, and salt. Its nutty flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture make it a classic Brazilian treat.
- Pé de Moleque: A traditional peanut brittle, combining peanuts and caramelized sugar for a crunchy treat.
- Amendoim Japonês: Despite the name, this “Japanese peanut” is a Brazilian favorite – peanuts coated with a crunchy, slightly sweet shell, perfect for snacking.
- Pão de Mel: Literally “honey bread,” this is a spiced honey cake coated in chocolate, offering a rich, moist texture and warm flavors.
- Bis: These bite-sized chocolate-covered wafer bars are highly addictive! Bis is known for its light, crispy texture and is perfect for sharing – or keeping all to yourself.
You can find these treats in supermarkets, where popular brands like Lacta, Garoto, and Nestlé are widely available; local markets and bakeries, which offer fresh, homemade versions of classics like pão de mel.
14. Cosmetics
Brazil is known not only for its natural beauty but also for its innovative, high-quality cosmetics, with famous brands offering skincare and fragrances that combine natural ingredients with advanced technology.
Many Brazilian cosmetics are made with botanicals like cupuaçu, açaí, and andiroba, valued for their nourishing properties, and are produced with eco-friendly practices, while offering exceptional quality at more affordable prices compared to international markets.
Top Brazilian Cosmetic Brands:
- Granado: Known as Brazil’s oldest pharmacy, Granado offers luxurious, plant-based soaps, hand creams, and skincare products in elegant vintage-inspired packaging.
- Natura: A pioneer in sustainable beauty, Natura specializes in skincare, haircare, and fragrances infused with ingredients from the Amazon rainforest. Their Ekos line is especially popular.
- O Boticário: O Boticário is renowned for its perfumes, body care products, and vibrant makeup collections. Their Nativa SPA line features rich, fragrant body lotions and oils.
- L’Occitane au Brésil: A Brazilian extension of the French brand, L’Occitane au Brésil combines local ingredients with French refinement, offering unique products like mandacaru and jenipapo body care lines.
You can buy Brazilian cosmetics at brand stores, including flagship locations and shopping malls for a full range of products and expert guidance, or at pharmacies and supermarkets, where popular items from brands like Granado are widely available.
15. Farm Rio Products
Farm Rio is a Brazilian fashion brand known for its tropical designs that reflect the country’s culture. Founded in Rio de Janeiro, it is recognized internationally for its colorful prints, lightweight fabrics, and connection to Brazilian traditions.
Many international visitors love shopping for Farm products locally because they are significantly more affordable in Brazil than in countries like the United States.
Popular products include maxi and mini dresses with bold prints, beachwear like bikinis, cover-ups, and cangas with tropical designs, accessories such as bags, hats, and sandals, and a home decor collection with printed cushions and tableware inspired by Brazilian culture.
You can find Farm Rio products in official stores across Brazil, particularly in major cities like Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, as well as in select boutiques and independent retailers, especially in tourist areas.
16. Handcrafted Accessories and Jewelry
Brazilian accessories and jewelry are closely tied to the country’s culture and traditions. They are made with natural materials and influenced by regional styles.
Many pieces are handcrafted by local artisans, making each accessory unique and culturally significant. These accessories are versatile, complementing both casual and formal outfits while offering a touch of Brazilian style.
Popular Brazilian Accessories and Jewelry:
- Capim Dourado: Known as “golden grass,” this shimmering material from Tocantins is used to create earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and even bags.
- Beaded Jewelry: Inspired by indigenous and Afro-Brazilian cultures, vibrant beaded necklaces and bracelets often feature intricate patterns and symbolic designs.
- Semi-Precious Stones: Brazil is famous for its gems, such as amethyst, quartz, and agate, which are often used in pendants, rings, and bracelets.
- Seed Jewelry: Sustainable and eco-friendly, accessories made from seeds like açai, jarina, and paxiúba are lightweight and colorful.
- Wooden Accessories: Hand-carved wooden earrings, bangles, and hairpieces are rustic yet elegant, often featuring tropical motifs.
- Shell and Pearl Jewelry: Coastal regions like Bahia offer accessories made from shells and natural pearls, perfect for ocean lovers.
You can find it at local markets and fairs, such as the Feira Hippie in Rio de Janeiro or Mercado Central in Fortaleza, as well as in specialty shops and boutiques across Brazil that focus on high-quality artisanal jewelry with unique designs.
17. Embroidery, Lace, and Crochet
Embroidery, lace, and crochet hold a special place in Brazil’s cultural identity, reflecting the creativity of artisans from different regions. These crafts are more than decorative items – they represent the diversity of Brazilian traditions, making them meaningful souvenirs with a story to tell.
Items range from delicate tablecloths and curtains to stylish clothing and accessories, offering something for every taste.
Popular Products to Look For:
- Rendas de Bilro (Bobbin Lace): Found in places like Ceará and Pernambuco, this lace is often used for table linens, dresses, and scarves.
- Bordados (Embroidery): Embroidered items include clothing, pillowcases, and tablecloths, with floral patterns from Minas Gerais and whitework from the Northeast.
- Crochê (Crochet): Common in the South and Northeast, crochet items include blankets, handbags, tops, and even jewelry.
You can buy it at local markets and fairs like Mercado Central in Fortaleza or fairs in Recife for a wide selection of handmade items, artisan cooperatives that ensure fair trade and offer high-quality pieces directly from the makers, and specialty stores or boutiques that carry high-end lace, embroidery, and crochet items.
18. Straw Bags and Hats
Straw bags and hats are timeless accessories that showcase Brazil’s connection to nature. Handcrafted from natural fibers like buriti, carnaúba, and piaçava, these items are both practical and stylish.
Popular Types of Straw Accessories:
- Bags: From simple totes to designed handbags, straw bags are practical for carrying essentials while adding a natural, rustic aesthetic.
- Hats: Wide-brimmed hats offer both sun protection and a stylish look.
- Decorative Pieces: Some straw bags and hats feature added details like colorful embroidery, pom-poms, or beads.
You can find straw bags and hats in markets and fairs like the Feira de São Cristóvão in Rio de Janeiro or local fairs in the Northeast for a variety of handcrafted options, artisan villages in states like Bahia and Ceará known for their high-quality straw weaving, and beachfront vendors in coastal towns offering straw accessories ideal for beach outings.
19. Brazilian Ceramics
Brazilian ceramics represent the country’s cultural diversity and artisanal traditions. They include a variety of items, from functional pieces like pots and plates to decorative sculptures and tiles, making them popular choices for souvenirs or gifts.
Ceramics are versatile, serving as beautiful home decor or practical tools for cooking and serving.
Popular Types of Brazilian Ceramics:
- Barro Preto (Black Clay): Found in Minas Gerais, these dark, glossy pots and dishes are perfect for traditional cooking and are prized for their durability.
- Figurative Sculptures: In the Northeast, ceramic artisans create whimsical figurines, often depicting rural life, folklore, or religious themes.
- Caruaru Pottery: In Pernambuco, Caruaru is famous for its rustic, hand-shaped pottery that captures the essence of the countryside.
- Capanema Ceramics: The Amazon region produces unique pieces often inspired by indigenous motifs and natural themes.
You can buy Brazilian ceramics at artisan markets and fairs like Feira de Caruaru in Pernambuco or Mercado Central in Belo Horizonte for authentic pieces, in specialty stores dedicated to local pottery and ceramic art in various towns and cities, or directly from artisans’ workshops where you can see the creation process.
20. Brazilian Musical Instruments
Brazilian music is world-renowned for its rhythm, melody, and energy, and the country’s traditional musical instruments play a vital role in creating these famous sounds.
From the classical guitar used in bossa nova to the percussion instruments central to samba, these instruments make meaningful souvenirs for music enthusiasts.
Popular Brazilian Musical Instruments:
- Classical Guitar (Violão): The classical guitar is essential to genres like bossa nova, choro, and Brazilian folk music.
- Pandeiro: A tambourine-like percussion instrument with a unique sound, the pandeiro is a staple in samba, capoeira, and choro.
- Berimbau: A single-string percussion instrument with African roots, the berimbau is central to capoeira, the Afro-Brazilian martial art.
- Cuíca: Known for its unique, high-pitched “laughing” sound, the cuíca is a friction drum used in samba and other Brazilian rhythms.
- Atabaque: A hand drum with African origins, the atabaque is used in candomblé rituals, capoeira, and other Afro-Brazilian cultural expressions.
- Cavaquinho: A small, four-stringed instrument similar to a ukulele, the cavaquinho is often used in samba and pagode, bringing a cheerful, upbeat sound to the music.
- Reco-reco: A percussion instrument made of a notched surface that is scraped with a stick, the reco-reco adds rhythm to samba and forró
You can find Brazilian musical instruments in specialized music stores in larger cities like Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, at artisan markets and cultural fairs offering handmade berimbaus, pandeiros, and cuícas, or directly from artisans’ workshops, where you can learn about the crafting process and even request custom pieces.
21. Gemstone Crafts
Brazil is renowned for its abundance of gemstones, making it one of the world’s leading sources of precious and semi-precious stones.
Popular Gemstones in Brazil include amethyst, aquamarine, topaz, quartz, tourmaline, and citrine, each celebrated for its unique color, brilliance, and versatility in crafting jewelry and decorative items.
Popular Gemstone Crafts:
- Jewelry: Necklaces, earrings, rings, and bracelets made with polished gemstones or raw crystals.
- Decorative Items: Gemstone-encrusted boxes, coasters, and figurines add a luxurious touch to any home.
- Geodes and Raw Crystals: Large amethyst geodes and raw quartz crystals are stunning decorative pieces.
- Pendulums and Keychains: Smaller, budget-friendly crafts featuring polished stones.
You can buy gemstone crafts in jewelry shops in cities like Ouro Preto and Belo Horizonte near mining areas, at markets like the Feira Hippie in Belo Horizonte with artisan-crafted pieces, in specialty stores in Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo offering a range of gemstone items, or directly from local artisans and cooperatives in mining towns.
22. Local Paintings
Local paintings show Brazil’s landscapes, traditions, and daily life. Inspired by places like rainforests, historic towns, or busy streets, these artworks are created by artists who bring Brazilian themes into their work.
Popular styles of Brazilian local paintings include Naïf art, abstract art, landscape paintings, and culturally inspired themes.
You can buy local paintings at markets and fairs like the Feira Hippie in Belo Horizonte or the Feira de São Cristóvão in Rio de Janeiro, in small galleries in cultural hubs such as Salvador, Olinda, and São Paulo, from street vendors near tourist attractions in many cities, or directly from artist studios, where you can learn about their process and request custom pieces.
23. Lord of Bonfim Ribbon
The Fita do Senhor do Bonfim, or Lord of Bonfim Ribbon, is one of Brazil’s most famous souvenirs. Originating from Salvador, Bahia, these colorful ribbons are a accessory that carries meaning and tradition.
The Story Behind the Ribbon: The ribbons are tied to the Church of Nosso Senhor do Bonfim in Salvador, a site of pilgrimage and devotion. Each ribbon represents faith and gratitude, with devotees tying them around their wrists or church gates while making three wishes. According to tradition, when the ribbon naturally wears out and falls off, the wishes are granted.
How to Use the Ribbon:
- Wrist Tying: Wrap the ribbon around your wrist, tie three knots, and make a wish with each knot.
- Decoration: Use the ribbons to adorn bags, keychains, or home decor as a colorful reminder of Brazil.
- Gifting: Share the ribbons with friends and family as a symbol of good fortune and positive energy.
You can find Fitas do Senhor do Bonfim at the Church of Senhor do Bonfim in Salvador, where the original ribbons are sold, at markets and souvenir shops across Bahia and other tourist destinations, and at artisan stalls, where they are often incorporated into jewelry, keychains, or decorative items.
24. Decorative Plates and Tiles
Decorative plates and tiles showcase Brazilian craftsmanship, using traditional techniques and designs inspired by the country’s culture, history, and nature. They can be used as wall decor or tabletop pieces, making them a way to bring Brazil’s culture into your home.
Popular Types of Decorative Plates and Tiles:
- Portuguese-Inspired Azulejos: Blue and white ceramic tiles are beautiful, featuring patterns or historical scenes reminiscent of Brazil’s colonial era.
- Hand-Painted Plates: Plates often depict tropical themes like toucans, palm trees, or the Amazon rainforest. Other designs highlight famous landmarks such as the Christ the Redeemer or Pelourinho in Salvador.
- Modern Art Tiles: Contemporary designs may incorporate bold colors and abstract patterns, offering a fresh take on traditional craftsmanship.
- Regional Themes: Tiles and plates from specific areas, like the Northeast, often showcase local culture, such as cangaceiros (folk heroes) or carnival scenes.
You can find decorative plates and tiles at artisan markets and fairs like the Feira Hippie in Belo Horizonte or Salvador’s Mercado Modelo for handcrafted items, in specialty shops in cities like Ouro Preto or Paraty offering high-quality ceramic art, and in cultural centers such as museums and galleries that sell reproductions of traditional designs.
25. Chimarrão
Chimarrão, also known as mate, is a traditional drink deeply rooted in the culture of southern Brazil, particularly in the states of Rio Grande do Sul, Santa Catarina, and Paraná.
Made from yerba mate leaves, this earthy and slightly bitter beverage is enjoyed in a cuia (gourd) and sipped through a bomba (metal straw). Beyond being a drink, chimarrão is a social ritual, symbolizing hospitality and connection.
Essential Items for Enjoying Chimarrão:
- Cuia (Gourd): Traditionally made from calabash, modern cuias are often decorated with engravings or designs that reflect regional culture.
- Bomba (Metal Straw): A metal straw with a filter at the bottom to prevent the yerba mate leaves from being sipped.
- Yerba Mate: The finely ground leaves of the yerba mate plant, available in different varieties and flavors.
- Thermos: A must-have for keeping hot water ready to refill the cuia as you enjoy your chimarrão.
You can buy chimarrão items at local markets and fairs in southern Brazil for authentic yerba mate, cuias, and bombas; in specialty shops focused on gaucho culture that carry premium-quality sets;and in supermarkets where yerba mate and basic accessories are widely available.
Tips for Beginners:
- Learn the Ritual: Ask locals or watch tutorials to learn how to properly prepare and drink chimarrão.
- Experiment with Yerba Mate: Try different blends to find your preferred flavor and intensity.
- Care for Your Accessories: Clean your cuia and bomba thoroughly after each use to ensure longevity and hygiene.
26. Pimenta
Brazilian pimentas (chili peppers) are a key part of the country’s cuisine, adding flavor and heat to many dishes. From sauces to preserved peppers, they are a great souvenir for those who love spice.
Popular Brazilian chili peppers and products include pimenta biquinho, pimenta malagueta, pimenta dedo-de-moça, pimenta cumari, hot sauces with various flavors, and preserved peppers in vinegar, olive oil, or brine.
You can buy Brazilian pimenta products at local markets and fairs like São Paulo’s Mercadão or Salvador’s Mercado Modelo for fresh peppers and artisanal items, in specialty shops offering high-quality oils and sauces, in supermarkets where packaged sauces and preserved peppers are widely available, and at artisan fairs featuring handmade, small-batch products with regional flavors.
Conclusion: What To Buy In Brazil
Brazil offers a variety of souvenirs that reflect its culture, flavors, and traditions. From practical items to regional crafts and local treats, there are many options to bring home a piece of the country. Whatever you choose, these souvenirs will help you remember your experience and share it with others.
