Sunday, March 2, 2008

Brazil Overview


Brazil is the largest country in Latin America. It is the fifth largest country in the world, both in terms of territory and population. It is a country of tropical paradise where you find the landscape changing dramatically as you travel around. Brazil is a single and continuous landmass. Brazil offers sights that are as varied as it's terrain. The eight UNESCO World Heritage locations, the spectacular water falls and the tropical rainforests, museums that hold relics from the past and cities made of stone. It is a country of mythic proportions and staggering beauty. There is a rich variety of plant, amphibian and primate species. The country ranks third for its variety of birds and fourth for reptile and butterfly species.

Much of the northern area is covered by tropical rainforest – the magnificent Amazon winds it way through here. The Amazon is the world’s largest and densest rainforest with more diverse fauna and flora than any other jungle in the world! This is the best way to enjoy the jungle and get a sense of its imposing size. The silence of the canoe cutting through the water will allow you to take in everything that is going on along the shore which include monkeys swinging through the trees, hundreds of species of birds calling out, and sloths staring at you as you pass by.


Let your heart sing at Rio de Janeiro, Capital of Brazil from 1763 until 1960 Rio de Janeiro is one of the most recognizable cities in the world thanks to its natural scenarios .Rio de Janeiro is a wonderful city. The cultural aspects in this huge city include theatres, museums, music, art and history. There is a big party thrown every year for the residents as well as visitors that come from all over the world. It is called the “Carnaval” which starts the Friday before Ash Wednesday and is known around the world for its samba dancers and bright colourful costumes. It is a great time for all with singing, dancing and a lot of fun. There is a huge parade and lots of artists, crafts and food.

Hang gliding, surfing, sailing and fishing are popular activities with excellent opportunities for rock climbing and hiking. The widest waterfalls in the world, the Iguaçu Falls are impressive from any angle. They are shaded by a verdant national park which play host to camping, hiking and rafting. While you can take a helicopter ride over the falls, there’s nothing like the boat ride underneath to really see the awesome power of nature.

Brazil is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Baía do Sancho, Baía dos Porcos and Praia do Leão are just some examples. Two of the most popular diving destinations, Baía dos Porcos and Baía do Sancho, offer breathtaking scenery above and below their waters, while Praia do Leão is renowned for its sea turtles that spawn here annually.

There is so much phenomenal landscape in Brazil, that you will never be able to see it all in one trip. To add to the natural wonders, the cities are bustling with interesting museums and historical districts. Anyone who has never been in Brazil are incredible.