Brazil Overview

In 1501, when Amerigo Vespucci first cruised into the Baía do Todos os Santos, the explorer encountered a seemingly deserted territory of lush palms and crystal waters. Five centuries later, the nation of Brazil is among the largest in the world, encompassing everything from unexplored equatorial rainforests to sprawling urban centers that fuel South America’s economy. Bordering almost every other country on the continent, Brazil offers a vast array of attractions for travelers—from trekking in the Pantanal to learning capoeira from Salvador’s masters to scoping the runways during São Paulo’s Fashion Week. Nature lovers will find paradise in the scarcely inhabited islands and untouched stretches of the Amazon in the north, and diehard urbanites will appreciate the hustle and bustle of Brazil’s major cities, set amid a unique com¬bination of colonial and futuristic architecture. Coupled with the country’s physical attractions is the incredible warmth and hospitality of the Brazilian people. Brazil’s characteristic laid-back attitude is contagious, especially in the coastal towns of the Northeast, and people from all backgrounds will feel welcome here. Brazil is internationally known for its incredible beaches, raucous Carnaval, and the intoxicating sounds of samba, but these familiar highlights are only the beginning of what makes it such a desirable destination. Whether for a whirlwind week of partying in Rio, a month trekking through the jungle, or endless weeks of beach-hopping, Brazil must be seen to be believed.

When To Go

Because of Brazil’s size, there is a lot of regional variation in climate. However, 90% of the country falls within the tropical zone, so it rarely gets very cold. Because it is in the southern hemisphere ...more

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For 52 years, we have published the world’s favorite budget travel guides, written entirely by students and updated every year. With pen and notebook in hand and a few changes of underwear stuffed in our backpacks, we spend months roaming the globe in search of travel bargains.