Brazil is one of the most beautiful countries in the world, offering pristine nature, access to the Amazon rainforest and historic cities with colonial architecture. It’s also a popular destination for revelers looking to party hard at Carnival, as well as beachgoers and adventure junkies. The country offers something for every traveler, but be aware that it has a rough-and-tumble reputation, and travelers need to stay on their guard at all times.
Rio’s classic beaches like Copacabana and Ipanema are famous around the globe, but there’s much more to discover. Further south, you’ll find secluded coves, crystalline waters and powdery sand in towns like Buzios, Ilhabela or Jabaquara. And the city of Sao Paulo, dubbed “New York City of the South” by some, is a center for art and culture.
But it’s the country’s natural wonders ta bonito brasil that are the main attraction. Brazil hosts 60 percent of the world’s Amazon Rainforest, which teems with flora and fauna. There are national parks like Lencois Maranhenses with its dazzling display of dunes and white-sand beaches, and Chapada dos Veadeiros, a mountainous region with canyons, waterfalls, lakes and peaks.
And the Amazon River, dubbed the “lungs of the planet” by environmentalists, runs through Brazil. It’s home to a massive array of plant and animal species, including endangered ones like the jaguar and the pink dolphin. The Iguazu Falls, which are higher and wider than Niagara Falls, are another top attraction.
There are also 72 other national parks in Brazil, with mountains, rivers, waterfalls, peaks and valleys to explore. The Ribeira Valley in the state of Sao Paulo is home to some of the country’s most spectacular caves, while private nature reserves like the 310 sq km (120 sq mile) Legado das Aguas allow you to hike and raft through lush forests.
In addition to the beautiful landscapes, the country has a rich history and culture. Brazilians are a multiethnic population and that diversity is reflected in their food, music, language, art and dance. The national dish, churrasco, is made from beef or chicken marinated in garlic and peppers, then grilled or fried. The music of Brazil is diverse, too, from the samba and bossa nova to the more traditional folk melodies, such as choro and frevo.
In terms of art, the country is well known for its ceramics, paintings and woodwork. The Rio Museum of Contemporary Art and So Paulo Modern Art Gallery are top cultural attractions in the two largest Brazilian cities. In terms of music, the world-famous Bossa Nova is a style that originated in Brazil and combines elements of samba and American jazz. Its seductive melodies were made famous by the iconic 1964 song, The Girl from Ipanema. Other Brazilian musical styles include choro, frevo and forro.