Brazil

Brazil is a land of so many captivating attractions, it could be 100 different destinations. From the sophisticated to the pristine, from the deepest jungles to the mighty rivers, from the delectable cuisine to the bossa nova beat – Brazil is a country that will kindle the passion within you.

There are certain places that fire the imagination, and Rio de Janeiro is at the top of the list. The home of world-famous Ipanema Beach, magnificent Sugar Loaf Mountain, and the exhilarating Carnival, this dazzling city pulses with electricity 24 hours a day.

Take the time to journey to the more unexplored corners and uncover another Brazil. Visit the former capital city of Salvador, which lies scenically between lush green mountains and a sapphire sea. Explore the colonial towns of Ouro Preto and Parati, where classical masterpieces of 18th century Portuguese architecture enchant. Journey to the Pantanal, the world’s largest wetlands where colorful parrots and other exotic animals all co-exist in a fascinating natural preserve.

A sight that will truly astound is Iguazu Falls on the Brazil-Argentina border. Standing amidst the thunder of this magnificent vision, discover roaring falls so powerful they leave a 100-foot spray of water straight up.

Travel tip: U.S. citizens must have a visa to travel to Brazil. Please allow enough time prior to travel for processing.

Rio de Janeiro
Considered by many to be one of the most beautiful cities in the world, Rio is famous as a hotspot of passion and sensuality. Its legendary nightlife embodies the deeply-rooted fervor of a city that has no room for worry or inhibitions. The Copacabana and Ipanema beaches, where ocean waves lay the foundation for the city’s atmosphere, lie just steps away from the most popular clubs. If it is possible for Rio to explode with more verve and vigor, it does so during the annual Carnaval festival - a celebration of life, love and religious faith.

Manaus
The port city of Manaus is an outpost of civilization in the midst of the Amazon region, and offers plenty to adventurous vacationers. Located in the middle of the rainforest, it is a hub for eco-tourists, many of whom flock to the Encontro das Aguas. There, the waters of the dark-colored Rio Negro and the lighter Rio Solimoes meet and flow side-by-side without mixing.

Salvador
Brazil’s first capital city was Salvador, which lies scenically between lush green mountains and a sapphire sea. Situated on a peninsula, the city is nearly surrounded by picturesque beaches. This vibrant, historic city has the strongest African influence of any city in Brazil - evident in its deep colonial, artistic and musical culture.

Angra
The area around Angra is an ecological wonderland, famous for the green-covered mountains that seem to grow out of the blue sea. Its coastline is dotted with hundreds of small islands that are perfect for exploration, snorkeling, boating and other watersports. The city is small, but contains a number of beaches – not to mention quaint convents, churches and monuments.

Buzios
Once a small colonial fishing village, Buzios is nicknamed the St. Tropez of Brazil because it has become a popular resort area for the chic and glamorous traveler. Its narrow cobblestone streets overflow with boutiques, trendy shops and fine dining, and give this city a strong Mediterranean flavor. Seventeen area beaches provide a beautiful backdrop for sunbathing, scuba diving and other forms of sun worship.