Venture deep into the Amazon forest, feel the spray of thunderous waterfalls on your face, or relax on glorious sun-soaked beaches. Whatever you’re looking for, this dazzling country will not disappoint.
t Trees in the Amazon rainforest forming a lush green canopy
The Amazon rainforest is as mystical, huge, and fragile as it is full of life. Experience the marvels of this threatened ecosystem at Mamiráua Sustainable Development Reserve, visit one of the region’s beautiful eco-lodges, or test your limits on a survival tour outside Manaus led by local guides.
Brazilians love their waterfalls, and it’s no wonder. Refreshing cascades come in all shapes and sizes, from sweetly subtle like Cascatinha do Taunay in Parque Nacional da Tijuca, to bold and thunderous like the biggest of them all: Foz do Iguaçu. Experience their sheer power during a thrilling boat ride through churning waters, or for something extra special, admire this natural wonder from above in a panoramic helicopter flight with Helisul Aviação (www.helisul.com).
The fiery sky of a Brazilian sunset is a spectacular sight. Admire the endless dunes of Lençóis Maranhenses as they change color with the dimming light, or take a sunset scramble to the top of the Chapadão plateau, from where you can watch the sun as it plunges into the Atlantic.
So big it is visible from space, the mighty Amazon river flows across South America from the Andes to the Atlantic. Plenty of local operators offer the chance to cruise down this epic channel on a riverboat trip. The southwestern corner of Mato Grosso do Sul is a veritable aquatic playground; head to the Rio da Prata in Bonito to snorkel in glassy, turquoise water while curious fish swim alongside.
There’s no shortage of magnificent mountain ranges in Brazil. Intrepid visitors can hike through winding valleys and past plunging cliffs in the Parque Nacional da Serra dos Órgãos. For great views, the iconic Sugar Loaf Mountain can’t be topped, with fun-loving Rio de Janeiro laid out below.
DISCOVER Brazil Your Way
Chapada Diamantina
An enticing highland region with excellent hiking routes.
Ilhe de Fernando de Noronha
An archipelago and marine park with spectacular wildlife.
Iguaçu
Brazil’s second oldest national park and home to the world-famous Iguaçu falls.
Lençóis Maranhenses
One of Brazil’s most popular parks, with undulating dunes and blue lagoons.