Old town of Sao Luis de Maranhao[Missing Credit]
Jewish heritage
Brazil’s Jewish story stretches back almost four centuries. The first synagogue in the Americas, Kahal Zur Israel, was founded in 1636 in Recife, Pernambuco. Today, it has been beautifully restored as a museum, preserving the memory of the Dutch-Jewish settlers who helped shape early Brazilian history. Discover this region of Brazil through this sample itinerary: Salvador to Recife.
In São Paulo, home to Brazil’s largest Jewish community, the Jewish Museum of São Paulo stands in the former Beth El Synagogue. The museum charts Jewish migration from Europe and the Middle East, weaving these narratives into Brazil’s broader story of diversity. Continue to the countryside of Sao Paulo and discover its historic farms, or venture further north to Minas Gerais for the speciality coffee experience.
Rio de Janeiro is also full of Jewish life, with several synagogues, schools and community centres. You can join heritage tours that include the Grande Templo, the Jewish Museum of Rio, and Itzhak Rabin Park, offering a sense of continuity between Brazil’s cosmopolitan present and its centuries-old Jewish roots.
Kosher and Shabbat-friendly travel
Brazil’s Jewish infrastructure is robust. While São Paulo and Rio can both offer kosher meal options, in the other parts of Brazil, especially the most scenic rural and remote areas, vegetarian options would be the safest bet and are available, as kosher facilities are scarce. Hotels are happy to accommodate special requests, but advance notice is essential. Those observing Shabbat may wish to stay within walking distance of a synagogue in Rio or São Paulo, where communities warmly welcome visitors.
Planning the perfect trip
At Boutique Travel Experts, every itinerary is handcrafted – like a perfectly tailored suit – to reflect each traveller’s interests and pace. Their philosophy blends personal discovery, cultural authenticity, and seamless logistics. A suggested route might begin in São Paulo, connecting with the local Jewish community, continue to Rio de Janeiro for heritage visits and kosher dining, then venture into the Pantanal or Amazon for nature and wildlife, ending on the north-east coast for the beautiful Lencois Marahnenses. The company favours small, characterful hotels and local guides over mass tourism, ensuring meaningful encounters and flexibility. With 24/7 on-the-ground support, kosher arrangements and Shabbat needs are integrated, where possible, allowing travellers to explore Brazil confidently and in comfort.
A destination of discovery and faith
Few destinations offer the combination Brazil does: natural beauty, warm hospitality and a genuine sense of Jewish continuity. You’ll find a country that celebrates diversity while embracing tradition.
For Jewish travellers, Brazil promises more than just breathtaking scenery – it offers the chance to explore identity and history in a land defined by openness and joy.
In short: Brazil dazzles the senses, nourishes the spirit and invites every traveller to feel at home under its endless, sun-washed sky.
Elena Skalovskaia is director of Boutique Travel Experts,
boutiquetravelexperts.com
explore@boutiquetravelexperts.com
Whatsapp: + 44 7 92 11 92 873
