From the world’s largest flood plains to the Amazon rainforest, white sandy beaches to teeming metropolis, and rugged mountainous landscapes to baroque colonial architecture, Brazil is a country of astonishing geographic diversity. Boasting an incredible seventeen UNESCO World Heritage listed sites, Brazil’s natural and man-made wonders draw visitors from all over the world. The Brazilian people however, are just as alluring- exuberant, joyous and hospitable. After all, this is a nation renowned for throwing the world’s biggest street party! Indigenous, European and African influences collide to give Brazil a unique cultural identity, expressed throughout the country in the food, dance, music, religion and rituals.
Brazil’s colonial heritage is reflected in the streets of picturesque towns dotted around the country. Visit Ouro Preto and glimpse the riches that Brazil’s gold rush generated. From Rio de Janeiro, take a trip south along the coast and spend a few days wandering the cobble stone streets of Paraty. In the country’s north, Salvador de Bahia and Olinda are living monuments to the Portuguese legacy.
For wildlife enthusiasts, few experiences can beat a trip to the world’s largest wetland region, the Pantanal. Sprawling over a vast region of Brazil, Paraguay and Bolivia, the Pantanal contains up to 12 distinct ecosystems and changes dramatically throughout the year as the seasons shift. See bright blue Hyacinth Macaw, Giant Anteater, Toco Toucan, Armadillo, Coati and perhaps the elusive puma or jaguar that roam the region.
The mighty Amazon River reaches the Atlantic Ocean after travelling more than 5000km through Brazil. Fly to the capital of Amazonas, Manaus, to join an Amazon cruise or head out to one of the many lodges in the region. See the famous Meeting of the Waters where the Rio Negro and Rio Solimões converge.
With more than 7000km of coastline, it is no wonder that life in Brazil tends to revolve around the beach. Vendors walk the busy city beaches of Rio de Janeiro, Recife and Salvador from dawn til dusk, selling cold drinks, snacks…even the famous Brazilian bikini. In laid back Fernanda de Noronha, you’ll often find you have the beach all to yourself! From the laid back charm of Jericoacoara to the ultra-chic beach resort of Buzios, Brazil’s beaches have something for everyone.
