Introduction
Brazil a land of staggering natural beauty and colours, where the carnival spirit reaches each and every corner. From pristine Amazonian rainforests, the wildlife-rich Pantanal and the thundering Iguassu falls to vibrant colonial towns and the dazzling cities of Rio de Janeiro and Salvador. Brazil is a truly hypnotic nation of heady Afro-Caribbean rhythms, sensual samba, exotic flora and fauna, caipirinhas and passionate people. There is fantastic scope to find your own special corner whether you are travelling as a family, or after adventure.
What to See and Do
- Visit the remote island archipelago of Fernando de Noronha for outstanding diving and stunning wild beaches or a dolphin-watching.
- Rio de Janeiro has inspired many a song and has a unique atmosphere all its own. Views from Christ the Redeemer atop Corcovado and Sugar Loaf Mountain are indescribable. The botanical Garden, Santa Teresa neighborhood, and hidden but still close enough islands like Angra dos Reis, Ilha Grande or Parati are a must to explore.
- Watch the sunset over Bahia de Todos Santos from the most famous spot: the elevator Lacerda. It witness the blending of European, African and Amerindian cultures. From music, religion to food, dance, traditions vibrant mix of races and creeds, smiles and happiness are everyday’s activities.
- Go on a Brazilian-style safari in the Pantanal wetlands, which is home to jaguars, giant anteaters, tapirs and more than 600 species of bird. Stay in one of the working ranches and head out in 4×4 boat, or on horseback to locate the incredible wildlife. Part national park, part UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Travel around the best undiscovered beach town in Brazil: “Trancoso” a charming, quiet village surrounded by many beautiful beaches in the state of Bahia. Visit Praia Espelho (Beach Mirror) in a boat trip of an hour from Trancoso or just relax delight in the sunset while sunbathing in one of Trancoso’s amazing beaches
Where to Stay and Eat
Best bang-for-your buck hotel -
Caesar Park Ipanama Hotel: Right in front of Ipanema beach and also overlooking Arpoador and Leblón beaches, this hotel is known for combining an ideal location with an elegant charm. Tempting for flexible rates.
Pousada Estrela D´Agua- Trancoso: Right on the beautiful Nativos Beach in Trancoso, Estrela D´Água is a sophisticated guest house with rustic and colourful décor. For relaxation, there are massage services and a game room, as well as lounging areas in the guest house´s tropical garden.
Restaurants only the locals would know
In Rio de Janeiro gives you variety of places to visit as per every taste.
A traditional local restaurant, at a great spot - in the heart of Ipanema. Originally a bar, it became a restaurant in last few years. On the menu, traditional dishes remain more in, more than 30 years of Beto Bar, well served portions for two people.
A charming old house in a beautiful cobblestone hilly street in Santa Teresa, offering a spectacular view over all Rio de Janeiro. Considered as one of Rio's top ten Restaurant serves the sophisticated Brazilian cuisine.
a perfect spot for dinner in lush garden & tropical jabuticaba trees. Enjoy northern Brazil’s signature seafood stew made with palm oil and hot pepper, chunks of young coconut, fresh palm fruit, cherries, and plum rose.
Total Recall Moment
- Corcovado: make your way via cog train to the iconic Art Deco statue of Jesus Christ or Cristo Redentor, is 38m high statue has become a symbol of Rio de Janeiro. The statue sits atop Corcovado, which means “hunchback” due to the 710m mountain’s shape. Once at the top, the enormity of the statue takes your breath away, as does the glorious view of Natioal Parl of Tijuca below.
- Carnival in Rio: Carnival is the main attraction people look for in Brazil. It is one of the biggest parties on Earth where the entire country grinds to a complete stand still for a full week in February.
- Football Match in Rio: Brazil is definitely one of the leading countries in the sport of soccer. They call it football here and whether you are a soccer buff or not, make your way to the world’s largest soccer stadium, the Maracana. a circular, open air sports arena which can hold up to 200,000 screaming fans.
- Watch the opening of a Sea Turtle’s Nest: From January to June in Fernando de Noronha, Projeto Tamar-ICMBio monitors and protects the nests of threatened green sea turtles allows the public to witness supervised nest openings about once a week. Scores of poker chip-sized babies are dug up and released.
- Hang Gliding in Rio: allows you to fly above the skyscrapers, favelas, tropical forest and beach. You will be flying like a bird in an experience of a lifetime.
Rookie Mistakes
When going to Rio do not stay at Copacabana. It is way too touristic and crowded, better go for Barra de Tijuca or Ipanema.
Do not speak Spanish,, as the official language Brazil is Portuguese. Either speak English or even better, try to learn a few words of Portuguese.
If you are curious about the idea of visiting a Favela in Rio, be informed in first place entering the favela alone isn‘t recommended. Although very safe, but it is easy to lose yourself in the maze of tumbling streets and alleys. A local guide will be able to point you towards the best places for food and performance and can talk your way out of trouble if it arises.
Although Rio de Janeiro is one of the most popular destinations in Brazil, don’t be afraid to venture out into the more remote areas. Take a trip to the Amazon Rainforest, visit smaller towns like Olinda and Ouro Preto or travel to the Fernando de Noronha archipelago to experience some of Brazil’s best kept secrets.
For you Facebook Wall –
Sugar Loaf – Panoramic View: Sugar Loaf Mountain, also known as Pão de Açúcar, is the place to go for a 360-degree panoramic view of the city. It’s the highest point above sea level in Rio de Janeiro.
Capture unique photos from Jaguars to Tucanos and Crocodiles while doing the Photography Safari in Pantanal.
The old, rickety Bonde (tram) is still in use here in Rio de Janeiro, and winds its way through the city from Centro to the charming cobbled streets of Santa Teresa.
Perfect Souvenir
If you are in Rio de Janeiro on a Sunday, be sure to stop at the well known street market, the Feira Hippie Fair. Located near Ipanema Beach, where local street vendors showcase their handmade jewels, from beadwork to pottery to wood carvings.
Brazilian Flip Flops. Brazil is home of the well-known Havaianas, the most famous flip flops brand in the world.
Cachaca: The typical Brazilian drink used to make caipirinha, cachaça is a great souvenir. The most popular brands are Pitú, Ypióca, Sagatiba and Colonial, however, if you are looking for the best. It is essential for your Caipirinha KIT.
