Welcome to Brasília, where the Palácio do Jaburu stands as the official residence of the vice president of Brazil. Designed by legendary architect Oscar Niemeyer under the urbanistic concept proposed by Lúcio Costa, this landmark was projected in 1973 and inaugurated in 1977. Unlike administrative hubs, its unique differential from sites like the Alvorada Palace is that it was designed exclusively for housing.
Named after the regional Jabiru bird, the 4,283-square-meter residence privileges the outdoors with its generous verandas and common spaces. As you explore, you will appreciate its stunning setting along the Presidential Way between the Planalto and Alvorada palaces, right on the topographical level of Paranoá Lake and alongside its namesake lagoon. The expansive 190,000-square-meter grounds feature gardens meticulously designed by landscape architect Roberto Burle Marx, combining ornamental plants from across Brazil with typical native trees.
The sheer tranquility of the surroundings creates a serene natural aviary, where you can catch sight of wild rheas circulating freely through the green spaces. It offers a fascinating glimpse into Brazilian political history, having housed vice presidents from Adalberto Pereira dos Santos to Marco Maciel.
What to see at Palácio do Jaburu
- Official vice presidential residence designed by renowned architect Oscar Niemeyer
- Sprawling gardens created by famous landscape designer Roberto Burle Marx
- Exclusively residential design featuring 4,283 square meters with generous verandas
- Tranquil grounds acting as a natural aviary where rheas roam freely
Visiting tips
Look out for native rheas roaming freely across the serene grounds near the edges of Paranoá Lake.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Early morning
How to get there & what’s nearby
Palácio do Jaburu is easy to reach on Brasília’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Palácio do Planalto and Palácio da Alvorada. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Brasília travel guide.
See the full Brasília travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.