The Rio Carnival is one of the most popular annual festivals in the world. The exuberant floats, the beautiful samba dancers and the contagious joy of its people make Brazil the ideal place for those seeking excitement and unique experiences. In fact, once you hear the rhythmic beat of the drums, your feet will begin to move, making you one more participant in this great celebration that takes place in samba schools, on Avenida Marqués de Sapucai or in the blocks of streets. But Brazil offers much more: it offers natural beauty and green areas like no other place. It is a place injected with life. From the Amazon Rainforest to Iguazu Falls, there is definitely a lot to see and do in Brazil.
To do?
Looking for exuberant nature? Head north to the Amazon rainforest where you’ll find thousands of unique species of plants and animals, as well as indigenous tribes. Be sure to book a tour, so you can get the most out of this experience while staying safe. Manaus is the capital of the State of Amazonas and the best place to visit the Amazon Rainforest. Belem is the second largest city in the Amazon region with religious festivals and traditional markets.
Looking for beautiful beaches? Head northeast towards Salvador (Bahia), Olinda, Recife, or Natal. It is considered the sunniest region in the country with colonial architecture and year-round street parties.
Looking for cosmopolitan cities? Head southeast towards Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo. In Rio you will find beautiful beaches like Copacabana and Ipanema along with the famous statue with open arms – Christ the Redeemer. The statue is a symbol that represents the culture of the Cariocas and their warm hospitality. Cariocas are known for their calm and relaxed culture in contrast to the more reserved people of other cities. Sao Paulo is the largest, richest and most cosmopolitan city in Brazil defined by a diverse cultural and commercial life. São Paulo is so diverse that it is home to the largest Japanese population outside of Japan. It also has strong Italian and Arabic influences. The people of São Paulo are known as hard-working and industrious people in contrast to Cariocas and people from other regions.
Where to eat?
Brazil’s national dish is feijoada, a hearty stew made with black beans and pork. It is a heavy dish, so take your time before eating it. Excellent seafood can also be found in the coastal cities of Brazil. Brazilian snacks called lanches include a wide variety of pastries such as coxinha, empadinha, and pastel. If you’re in the mood for a good barbecue, try the Brazilian “Churrasco” served in many restaurants. A restaurant meal with a drink typically costs $10, making eating out a very doable experience for those on a budget. Fast food is also available and you will find as many Bob’s (a famous fast food chain in Brazil) as McDonald’s in the big cities.
Where to stay?
In the Pantanal region, a place full of wildlife and wetlands, tourists generally stay in fazendas, which can be described as large ranches. Boat hotels are also a popular option for tourists who want to spend a relaxing time fishing and observing the wildlife of the Pantanal. In the big cities, you will find 5-star hotels, as well as pousadas (guest houses) and hostels.
Visas and Documents
o Citizens of Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Paraguay, Peru and Uruguay can enter the country with a valid identity card and stay for up to 90 days.
o Citizens of the following countries must present their passports for stays up to 90 days: South Africa, Croatia, all EU countries (except Cyprus, Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania), Israel, New Zealand, Norway, Switzerland, Turkey, Bahamas, Barbados, Belgium, Bulgaria, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Guatemala, Guyana, Honduras, Hong Kong SAR, Iceland, Macao SAR, Malaysia, Morocco, Namibia, Panama, Philippines, Slovakia, Slovenia, Malta, Suriname, Thailand, Trinidad and Tobago, Tunisia, Venezuela.
o Citizens of the following countries currently require a visa for Brazil: Australia, Canada, China, India, Japan, Mexico, Russia, Angola, Mozambique, Cape Verde, United States, El Salvador, Nicaragua, Indonesia, Iran, Jamaica, Armenia, Lebanon, Syria, countries of the former Soviet Union and others not mentioned above.
o Citizens of the United States must pay US$100 for a 5-year visa.
