Stretching more than 8.5 million square kilometres (3.2 million square miles), the sheer magnitude of Brazil makes it the largest country in South America and one of the most diverse and populous countries in the world. Travellers coming off their flights to Brazil will be surprised to find an eclectic mix of Portuguese, native Indian, African, European, Middle Eastern and Asian immigrants who have been living harmoniously here for generations. Sao Paulo has the largest Japanese community outside of Japan while in the south: Rio Grande do Sul, Parana and Santa Catarina have the highest concentration of Germans and Italians.
The heart and soul of Brazil is undoubtedly Rio de Janeiro where the biggest party, Carnaval, takes place annually attracting thousands from around the world to book flights to Brazil. Further north is the city of Salvador, Bahia’s capital and once the country’s main port for bringing slaves over from Africa. The northeast of Brazil - Recife, Fortaleza and Natal - offers some of the most stunning beaches in the country.
Because of its size, the most economical way to travel around and stop in several cities is to acquire a Brazil Air Pass which most travellers do while booking their flights to Brazil.
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There are five climatic regions in Brazil: equatorial, tropical, semi-arid, highland tropical and subtropical. The seasons are the reverse of those in Europe and the United States. Cities such as Sao Paulo and Brasilia, on the plateau, have a mild climate with temperatures averaging 19 degrees Celsius. Rio de Janeiro, Recife, Natal and Salvador on the coast have warmer climates balanced by the Trade Winds. Rio, for example, has an average temperature of around 26 degrees Celsius which will climb to the high 30s during the summer months.In the southern Brazilian cities of Porto Alegre and Curitiba, the subtropical climate is similar to parts of the US and Europe, with frosts occurring in the winter months (July to August) when temperatures can fall below freezing. Summers are hot, however.Despite the popular image of the Amazon as a region of blistering heat, temperatures rarely rise above 32 degrees, and days are generally warm, wet and humid. The region has two seasons: a rainy season (November to May) and not-so-rainy season (June to October).
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Peak Season:
Since Brazil lies on the Southern Hemisphere its summer is December through to March and winter is from June through to September. The best time to book flights to Brazil is from December until Carnaval season; usually in February. However this is also when accommodation and flights are at their peak. Another popular time to visit is the week of Easter.
Off season:
May to October is winter in Brazil but if you’re looking for a bargain then it’s probably the best time to visit – prices are lower and temperatures are in the upper 20s; much milder than in summer.
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Brazil is a vast country and the best way (but certainly not the cheapest) to get around is by domestic flights. Most visitors who plan on visiting a few different regions or cities should invest in a Brazil Pass which can be arranged through your travel agent or airline when booking your ticket.
In the major cities the best, and safest, way to get around is by taxi.
For long-distance travel buses are a good, reliable option and all major cities are linked by bus routes.
Rental cars are available at the airport although driving can be rather frustrating and dangerous at times.
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- Hike through the tropical jungle of the Parque Nacional da Tijuca in Rio. Although it’s located in the city its waterfalls and lush greenery make for a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle.
- Take a cable car up 396 metres (1300 feet) to Pão de Açúcar or Sugar Loaf and see the most breathtaking views of the entire city beneath you. Then head up Corcovado Mountain and visit the iconic statue of Christ the Redeemer.
- If you’re a football fan then you can’t miss a game at the football mecca of the world: Maracanã Stadium. With 100,000 passionate fans screaming, dancing and singing, it’ll definitely be a game you’ll never forget.
- Lovers of the great outdoors will enjoy the serenity of kayaking in the Amazon. You can take a guided tour and explore the rainforest, then stop for a meal prepared by the tour’s chef. But if you’d rather get your adrenaline pumping then try hang gliding at 780 metres (2,624 feet) above the city of Rio.
- Invite yourself to the wildest party in the world – Carnaval. Each year the city turns into one big party with thousands participating in the samba parade and dancing till the early hours of the morning.
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All visitors require passports that are valid for at least the period of intended stay in Brazil. Sufficient funds to cover their stay in Brazil, as well as a return or onward ticket and documentation required for further travel is necessary for all travelers.
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UK passport holders do not require a visa for either business or holiday or business travel for stays of up to 90 days. A valid passport is required.
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