Brazil a Sensational Country

80
. - , Nicholas, Mati lda and Kelly Hersey, from England , fans of Brazil, like so many others around the world . ..

description

Brazil. Whoever gets to know it becomes a fan!Sunshine all year round, warm transparent waters and the chance to sit for hours in the shade of coconut trees, sipping sweet, refreshing coconut water... this may seem too good to be true but it does exist. It's Brazil!

Transcript of Brazil a Sensational Country

Page 1: Brazil a Sensational Country

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,

Nicho las, Mati lda and Kelly Hersey, from England , fans of Brazil, like so many others around the world .

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Page 2: Brazil a Sensational Country
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BRAZIL. A SENSATIONAL COUNTRY.

Sunshine all year round, warm transparent waters and the chance to sit for hours Nowadays Brazil's enchantment is not limited to its amazing natural beauty or

in the shade of coconut Irees, sipping sweet, refreshing coconut water on some the great range of options for having fun. Here in Brazil, the enjoyment begins of the beaches that tourists from all over the world have declared to be the most the moment you arrive. Brazilian hospitality is widely renowned . Here are happy

beautiful on Earth - this may seem too good to be true but it does exist. It's Brazil, people that have sprung from a mixture of races that has produced unique sounds,

a sensational country for you to visit on business or just for pleasure; on your own aromas, navors and architecture. Here the cultural richness of the people can be or together with friends or family. And if you think Brazil is limited to just Sun and seen in museums, musical shows, plays, art exhibitions, or even on the streets

Beach, you will be surprised. where the greatest festival in the wortd takes place; Carnival.

Ecological Reserves, mountains, innumerable waterfalls and ecological trails are Getting to know Brazil might be like taking a journey through time, a journey back

all part of the trip too. Brazil is made up of six different Biomes with the most varied to the past, traveling through historic cities , heritages, registered by UNESCO, or a

landscapes, vegetation and climates imaginable: Cerrado savannahs, Atlantic journey into the future, through the modernity of its planned cities like Brasilia , the Forest, Caatinga scrublands, the Amazon , the Pantanal wetlands, and the Pampas. Brazilian capital.

Indeed it is here in this immense country that you will also find the greatest and rnost famous forest in the wortd: the Amazon Rainforest. Modernity and comfort are also found in the hotel infrastructure. In Brazil you will

find everything from convention centers, resorts, hotels and inns, to restaurants Brazil is also a perfect setting for sports activities. Our waters, skies and lands offer offering both national and international dishes. Pack your bags! Get to know Brazil

amazing landscapes and a wide range of possibilities like getting to know the best and become a fan! spots in the world for scuba diving, mountain climbing, canyon rappelling , bungee

jumping, rafting , canoeing , paragliding, hang-gliding and golf among many others.

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Our beaches are absolutely spectacular and you will become a fan of everyone of them.

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eutaW

MINAS GERAIS

I3t H rtzontt

PARAGUAY

With over 8 thousand kilometers of

marine coastline, it is easy to imagine the diversity that the beaches of Brazil have

to offer. The tropical climate also helps

a lot. Sunshine accompanies the tourist all year long. There are so many options

available that it is difficult to decide which

to visit first. They range from famous beaches like Copacabana and Ipanema,

in Rio de Janeiro, full of bars, restaurants,

and beautiful people; to deserted, quiet beaches like Jericoacoara, in the state of

Ceara, ideal for a well-deserved rest. With

the amount of beaches around, it could be said that that there is nowhere else in the

world that offers so many options. After

all, with the exception of its islands, Brazil is made up of a single territorial block, but

talking about islands, you really need to

get to know Fernando de Noronha.

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Fernando de Noronha Pernambuco ae ortheast

The Fernando de Noronha National Park is a World Natural Heritage. This means that the island is not

only beautiful , but is protected and preserved. Maybe that is why this archipelago, made up of 21 islands,

is one of the best scuba-diving spots in the world . Its warm waters are so crystal-clear that visibi lity reaches up to 50 meters. This means that none of the fish, rays, turtles, moray eels, barracudas, dolphins, aquatic flora, rock formations ,

or wrecks wi ll go unnoticed by you. Every1hing is so lovely that tourists visiting Fernando de Noronha have always become

admirers and in turn , put the island at the top of their list of spots most admi red in Brazil and in the world .

Recife: 540 km (1h40 by plane)

Brasilia/Recife: 2,189 km Rio de Janeiro/Recife: 2,353 km

Sao Paulo/Recife: 2,666 km

'Departures to Fernando de Noronha are always from Recife and Natal.

Natal : 360 km (1h10 by plane)

Brasilia/Natal : 2,478 km Rio de Janeiro/Natal: 2,642 km

Sao Paulo/Natal: 2,955 km

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Other attractions

Mar de Fora (Outer-sea) beaches:

Leao (Lion) Beach - Bears this name because of a huge rock in the sea,

right in front of the beach, which resembles a sea lion. It is considered to be

one of the most beautiful beaches in Brazil. It is here that the turtles lay their

eggs in the months from January to July and during this period the beach is

closed to visitors from late afternoon until the following morning.

Sueste Bay - For a country to be unique it would have to be home to

beaches with characteristics that were also unique. In the Sueste bay there

is a mangrove swamp, a type of vegetation that is extremely rare in oceanic

islands. Inside the bay, the sea is calm with very small waves. At one end of

the beach are the ruins of the Sao Joaquim de Sueste Fort.

Atalaia - Access to this beach is restricted to a small number of visitors

per day. A license must first be obtained from the Visitor's Center of the

Fernando de Noronha National Park. The reefs to be found there form natural

aquariums teeming with marine life .

Mar de Dentro (Inner-sea) beaches:

Cachorro Beach - Is located near the Fortaleza dos Rernedios. The waves

here are weak so you can take the opportunity to relax in the natural pools

formed by the reefs.

Conceic;ao Beach - This is a surfer's beach at high tide. It is also a favourite

amongst those that like to walk on the sands. At low tide the sea is calm and

highly suitable for bathing.

Boldr6 Beach - Watching the sun go down from the cliffs where the ruins

of the Sao Pedro do Boldr6 Fort is located is a delightful way to end the day.

This beach also has good waves for surfing , at high tide. The best waves can

be found from January to June.

Cacimba do Padre - This is a small beach, about 1 km long. It is surrounded

by natural vegetation and in the summer, the waves are excellent for surfing,

sometimes getting up to 5 meters in height.

Sancho Bay - It is hard to decide which is the rnost beautiful beach in

Fernando de Noronha, but the scenery found at Sancho Bay takes your breath

away. From the cliff-top you get the most incredible view of the island. Visibility

in the waters and the diversity of marine life make this beach one of the best

options for scuba diving. It is also a site for the marine turtles to lay their eggs,

and consequently there are visiting restrictions in the months from January to

July between the end of afternoons and the following mornings.

You must get to know

Dos Porcos Bay - Warm waters with an unequalled turquoise color and some

dark rocks transform this spot into one of Brazil's most beautiful landscapes. The

whole structure forms natural aquariums full of colorful fish . Right in front of the

beach are two great rocks known as Dois Irmaos. On the high end are the ruins

of the Sao Joao Batista Fort where you can watch over all the beauty. Access to

this spot is on foot along trails.

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Become a fan of th beaches of the !:: t nf" In h.. nrth.. f Rr .1

Santa Cruz de Cabnilia, Porto Seguro, Prado and Canavieiras

It was along this stretch of the coast, over 500 years ago, that Brazil was first

discovered by foreign tourists . The Portuguese were the first to get to know some of our most precious treasures: our beaches. These beaches have

great surprises in store for visitors, and not to mention the historical sites. The

Cabnilia beach is an excellent option for an excursion. Porto Seguro brings together History and beauty. It was here that the colonization of Brazil began.

There are 90 km of beaches to suit all tastes ranging from the most tranquil

ones to those that are most in fashion at the moment. Prado has 84 km of coastline, cliffs of various colors and extraordinary beauty, contrasting

with the plains on top. The beaches, with their warm waters, natural pools and

coconut groves are an invitation to relax. You will find extraordinary beauty in Canavieiras. The beaches belong to marine islands and river islands and

there are coconut groves. The Atlantic Forest and the mangrove swamps

complete the picture and are home to a highly diversified fauna .

Arraial D' Ajuda, Trancoso, Caraiva, Cumuruxatiba, Caravelas, Marau,

Itacare, Boipeba and Morro de Sao Paulo The cliffs of Arraial D'Ajuda directly face the sea. The natural pools of

warm water that are formed by the coral reefs make the scenery even

more attractive. 12 km of beaches link Arraial D'Ajuda to Trancoso. The best-known Caraiva beaches are Espelho and Curuipe, with their calm,

transparent, warm waters. Cumuruxatiba is a bay with blue waters so

shallow that you can go 200 meters out into the sea without the water going above knee-level. The municipality of Caravelas is the main gateway to the

Abrolhos National Marine Park, 70 km off the coast. In the park you may

witness Nature's famous spectacle , the Ballet of the Humpback Whales - and also observe various species of migratory birds from July to November.

Those who seek a more recently revealed paradise must get to know Marau, an area of environmental protection where the Cassange beach,

Tres Coqueiros beach and the hamlet of Barra Grande are all found . The

Cassange and Tres Coqueiros beaches have calm, warm waters perfect for sea bathing. Coconut trees are the landmarks of this part of Brazil.

At the Cassange beach you can bathe in the freshwater of the Cassange lake,

which is separated from the ocean by a mere 300-meter strip . Last but not least is the Barra Grande. The coral reefs form natural pools and the spit land

vegetation completes a perfect frame for the scenery.

Another good option is Itacare, where a succession of beaches, forests and

coconut groves hide real natural treasures. In Boipeba you will come across a

dense coconut plantation. The waters are greenish and crystal-clear, with low

waves and reefs .

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Morro de Sao Paulo is located on Tinhare Island. It has beaches that offer

crystal-clear waters and natural pools. The region attracts many visitors who

prefer its combination of unforgettable scenery and infrastructure that is good

enough to receive tourists from all over the world.

Forte Beach, Mata de Sao Joao and Itacimirim

Sophistication and sustainable development go hand in hand in the tourist

complex Mata de Sao Joao. During Brazil's colonial period, the region was an

extensive rural property. The Forte Beach is also located here. It is perfect for

enjoying water sports and scuba diving. In addition to the 12 km of beaches,

dunes, coconut groves and natural pools, the region also has a great va riety

of leisure and entertainment options and a varied fauna. The headquarters of

the TAMAR Project, a pioneering organization in the preservation of marine

turtles, is located here. At the TAMAR, aquariums and tanks with a variety

of turtle species along with the diversity of the regional marine fauna can be

seen. For scuba diving and fishing, go to Itacimirim. It is a small fi shing port

shel tered by coral reefs .

Sauipe Coast, Sitio do Conde

and Mangue Seco

The international hotel networks

discovered Sauipe Coast and

have made their presence felt.

That was how one of the best­

structured tourism complexes in

Brazil came about. In addition

to the hospitality that is natural to all Brazilians, you will be enchanted

with the local scenery and the leisure options available. There is excellent

infrastructure for sports activities, with a golf course , and a water sports

center, but if your wish is to bring together good business dealings and leisure,

then Sauipe Coast is a great space for holding events and conventions.

Sitio do Conde is a place that lends a bucolic air to the region. This ancient

fishing village is home to most of the traditional inns, a quiet place, and an

invitation to relax. At the Barra do Itariri beach , or at the Artistas beach, you

will find fishermen's homes and holiday-rental houses. The bars and stalls

operate mainly at the height of the season from December to February and in

the lower season, from July to August.

The fine sands and moving dunes of Mangue Seco captivate the Brazilians

and are sure to captivate you as well. The scenery is an invitation to leisure.

It is the ideal spot to forget about everything and let yourself go onceand for

all. Mangue Seco is located on the border between the State of Bahia and the

State of Sergipe.

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be,lche of the

Jericoacoara, Trairi , Pedra Pesada (Lagoinha) and Camocim

Dunes, long stretch of rocky beaches, coconut groves and an indescribable blue sea. That's what the Jericoacoara beaches are like: unique. Buggies,

pick-ups and a special type of vehicle called "jardineira" are the means of

transport used to get to these beaches, crossing the dunes.

The tropical location means a warm climate all year round with temperatures

that range from 24 to 32°C. It is in this context that you will get to know Trairi .

Quiet beaches, dunes, coconut groves and calm seas attract tourists from all

over the world and it is here they can find peace.

The Pedra Pesada Beach , better known as Lagoinha , is of unparalleled beauty. From a natural outlook point, on top of a 50 meter-high cl iff, you can

see a reddish-colored dune along with another dune speckled with coconut

trees advancing toward the sea. There are several lakes and freshwater springs where you may refresh yourself. Not only can you take advantage of

the infrastructure in the form of stalls, restaurants, and good-quality-inns, but

also of excursions in buggies, quadri-cycles, on horseback or on "jangadas"

(sailing rafts) . If you prefer surfing, the waves are big , fast, and highly curved.

The spirit of adventure will be your main companion on this journey. This is

because to get to most of the Camocim beaches, you need a buggy or a 4-wheel drive vehicle. Camocim is located at the mouth of the Coreau River.

The main attraction there is the Tatajuba beach, which combines beautiful

scenery and the traditional village of the fishermen, with good tourist

infrastructure.

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Become a fan of scuba-dlvlOg 10 the waters f h S f AI orthe ~t

Maragogi , Sao Miguel dos Milagres, Barra de Santo Antonio, Macei6,

Frances Beach, Barra de Sao Miguel and Gunga

Warm water relieves tiredness . If this statement is true then pack your bags and make your bookings to travel to the State of Alagoas . In addition to the

warm transparent waters, you will come across a coastline full of agreeable

surprises including the coral reef formations. There are 135 km worth of them protected under the aegis of the Costa dos Cora is Environmental Protection

Area that stretches from the State of Alagoas to the State of Pernambuco.

The formations of natural pools and the color of the sea, sometimes, greenish,

sometimes turquoise , make up absolutely unforgettable scenery.

At low tide in Maragogi , sandbanks become visible and among them, natural pools of water. In addition to the calm seas and the beach of fine, white

sand , the visitor is also made to feel welcome by the good accommodation

infrastructure.

Fine white sand can also be found in Sao Miguel dos Milagres. The calm

crystal-clear waters are a blessing for those who are familiar wi th the place.

An excursion out to the natural pools offshore is traditional in Alagoas. It

is also an option available at Barra de Santo Antonio. Each one of these

beaches has a different and surprising beauty. At Barra de Santo Antonio you can also visit Croa Island, which also has beaches with natural pools and

several rustic bars to serve you.

Another stop-off that is a must

is Macei6, the capital of the State of Alagoas. You can stroll

along the shoreline to admire the

beauty of the urban beaches like

Jatiuca, Ponta Verde, Paju9ara, Cruz das Almas, Sobral and

Pontal da Barra. The coconut

trees, the mangroves and the sea compose beautiful scenery.

The city also offers good

infrastructure, including good

hotels and restaurants.

Frances Beach is one of the

most sought after beaches on the northeast coast, as much

for its infrastructure as for its

'.

beauty. The beach is divided into two parts : the first , with calm sea surrounded

by coral reefs and well urbanized, and the other somewhat wilder, facing the

open sea with big waves.

At Barra de Sao Miguel the reefs form a natural pool along almost the whole

length of the beach. It is one of the favorite beaches among Alagoas' people as well as visitors. The Gunga beach was voted one of the 10 most beautiful

beaches in Brazil. Here the waters of the Silo Miguel River flow into the sea

bordered by white sands and coconut trees.

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ecome a fan of the most famous beaches h~ t t~ of RIo d ammo

Copacabana, Ipanema, Leblon, Barra da Tijuca, Prainha and Grumari

Rio de Janeiro is one of the world 's most famous cities. It is also one of the

main gateways to Brazil. It overflows with charm; beauty and friendliness

just like its people and its beaches. Rio de Janeiro lies between the mountains and the sea and welcomes you with the open arms of the statue

of Christ the Redeemer.

Copacabana is one of Brazil's best-known beaches. In addition to being

extraordinarily beautiful , it is home to one of the biggest New Year's Eve celebrations in the world . Copacabana's wide seafront sidewalk is the ideal

spot to take a stroll at the end of the day.

Ipanema and Leblon are busier beaches. The coconut water sold at the little stalls scattered along the seafront is a must. The bars and restaurants

in the area are very inviting and can meet the demands of the most

exacting customers, an open invitation to tuck in and enjoy yourself.

Barra da Tijuca is the longest of Rio de Janeiro's beaches with its

18 km of fine, light sands. Here, the waves are strong and tubular and are

really good for surfing or body boarding. It is at this beach that several stages of the Brazilian Surf Championships are held and even some world

championship events like the World Championship Tournament. The beach known as Prainha is a small stretch of sand some 700 meters long,

with heavy seas located at the end of the Recreio beach. It is the surfers'

favorite beach because of its powerful waves.

Grumari was declared to be an Area of Environmental Protection in 1987,

and has thus managed to preserve its landscape of clear waters and

abundant greenery.

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Angra dos Reis - Gip6ia Island, Piedade and Jurubaiba

Gip6ia Island is one of 365 islands at Angra dos Reis . The beauty of the beaches and the quiet bays like Piedade

and Jurubaiba, are some of the attractions that wi ll make

you ecstatic. Jurubaiba is also referred to as Dentista Beach and it is a place where you can try a variety of fish

and seafood dishes. The color of the sea and the exuberant

green of the Atlantic forest are intense. Water sports, sub­aqua fishing, walks along the trai ls in the Atlantic forest,

long boat trips and a golf course are all guarantees of a

good time.

IIha Grande - lopes Mendes and Cachada~o beaches You will get to know a genuine ecological sanctuary in the

form of the many islands found in the Angra dos Reis bay.

IIha Grande is an irresistible invitation to participate in water sports , diving, or long walks along the Atlantic forest

trails. lopes Mendes beach is one of the prettiest. Nobody

can resist bathing in the transparent greenish waters of the sea there . Cachada~o however, is a surfer's beach with

rough seas and can only be got to by boat or on foot along

trails .

Lopes Mendes, Itha Grande, Rio de Janeiro

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Buzios - Geribii, Enseada de Manguinhos, Arma~ao, Dos Ossos Beach,

Do Canto Beach, Azeda, Azedinha , Ferradura and Ferradurinha Beaches Buzios is a very lively peninsula. By day there is sun, the beauty of Nature,

and sophistication, by night, it becomes very lively and you will see many

beautiful people tanned by the sun. Buzios used to be a fishing village. Today it is home to a commercial sector that is fu ll of charm. A stroll along the Rua

das Pedras (Stones Street) or along the Bardot seafront will make you fall

in love with the region. The beaches are also excellent for surfing, body boarding, foot-volley, diving, windsurf and sailing.

Arraial do Cabo - Dos Anjos Beach, Pontal do Atalaia, Brava Beach,

Farol Beach and Forno Beach In 1503, Americo Vespucio set up the first small settlement at

Dos Anjos Beach . Here History and beautiful scenery exist side by side in

perfect harmony.

At Arraial do Cabo you will find one of the best spots for scuba diving in the whole of Brazil. The transparency of the waters, the sheet rocks and the islands

shelter a great diversity of forms of marine life. Apart from unforgettable dives,

you will be able to see one of the region's most beautiful sunsets, eat in really

good restaurants and enjoy the vibrant nightlife, full of good options.

At Pontal do Atalaia, one of the best activities is an excursion around the

beautifu l bays that face the Cabo Frio Island, or up to the top of the Pontal

itself.

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BecomE: u It. ,",urf anc. ~ .. ",e-style of S ntll ell llnn

Florianopolis - Dos Ingleses, Campeche, Arma~ao, Joaquina, Santinho

and Mo~ambique beaches The island of Florianopolis is one of the places most sought out by tourists

during the summer months. What most enchants people about the island is

the great diversity among its beaches, side by side, that

composes one of the most beautiful contrasts to be found in Brazil. They range from very long, wide stretches of

sand, to very small beaches tucked away in little bays.

The Dos Ingleses Beach, for example, is an urban beach

with an excellent infrastructure. Here the water is crystal­

clear and the temperatures are pleasant.

Strong waves and open sea are what you will find at

Campeche. The Campeche Island is one of the attractions of this beach where you can visit sites with rock-drawings

and see vast extensions of vegetation .

If you like to surf or simply watch surfers, then you have two choices :

Arma~ao Beach or Joaquina Beach . The sea here has big waves perfect

for surfing. Every year Joaquina beach is host to important competitions including some stages of the World Surfing Championship.

This region of cold , clear waters offers ample opportunity for fishing . At

Arma<;:ao you can stro ll along the wide, white sandy beach and take the opportunity of being made really welcome in the excellent hotels and

restaurants.

Santinho Beach is indeed a blessing, endowed with an excellent hotel

infrastructure.

Mo~ambique is a much more isolated beach. Nevertheless it is much visited

by those who enjoy water sports, and those who want to spend their summer holidays there.

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Garopaba - Ferrugem, Silveira and Garopaba beaches

Santa Catarina is the right destination for you if you wish to enjoy Nature and at the same time, sports, like surfing, windsurfing, hang-gliding and trekking . The

municipality of Garapoba was revealed as a tourist destination in the seventies.

This former fishing village still preserves its charm and the quiet life-style of its

inhabitants. Between the months of July and November, Right Whales visit the

waters off the Garapoba Beach on the center-south coast of Santa Catarina, to

suckle their offspring.

In the municipality of Garapoba, bronzed, beautiful youngsters tend to gather

at Ferrugem Beach to make the most of its nightlife in bars, restaurants and nightclubs. During the day, the sun embraces them all on the lovely beach .

But if you are looking for peace and quiet, then relax , the municipality of Garapoba can offer you the Silveira Beach, with beautiful scenery and

programs that you can get the whole family to participate in.

Imbituba - Rosa and Vermelha beaches

The Vermelha Beach, in the municipality of Imbituba, is almost deserted. To get to it you need to be adventurous and go on foot along trails. If your intention is

to find good waves for surfing, as well as hot sun, then your option is the Rosa

Beach, also in the municipality of Imbituba.

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Become a fan of the calm warm waters of the State of por'1ambuco ortheast

Maria Farinha and Porto de Galinhas Maria Farinha is on the north coast of Pernambuco and is considered to be the Paradise of the Northeast in terms of water

sports. Its calm waters are host to yachts, launches and jet-skis. The whole scene is framed by the coconut groves and mangrove

swamps that typify the region.

Porto de Galinhas is on the south coast. It is renowned for its

natural pool formations of warm waters and for excursions on

sailing rafts called "jangadas". It combines excellent infrastructure

with amazing, small , exclusive beaches.

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B 0 e a f n of tile dunes nd ("lIff of the ~ t f d do 'II l1e Nort st

Natal - Ponta Negra

In Natal, the capital of the State, all the action takes place at Ponta

Negra. Excellent hotel infrastructure, bars and restaurants and the city's postcard view: the Morro do Careca.

Genipabu, Tibau do Sui, Pipa and Baia Formosa The dunes and the coconut groves together, make up a beautiful

landscape. They are also guarantees of having a good time.

Genipabu is 25 km from Natal , in the municipality of Extremos. There

you can try "esquibunda" (bum-skiing), which is the local way of sliding

down the dunes by sitting on a small wooden board. The dunes at Genipabu are always in movement due to the action of the wind , this

means that the landscape is constantly renewed. Other excursions

not to be missed are trips in sand buggies and rides on dromedaries, something really surprising in Brazil. The calm waters with almost no

waves are a clear invitation to enjoy water sports .

You will have a smile on your face all the way to Tibau do Sui , 88 km

from Natal along the south coast. The tranquility of this municipality

becomes more apparent when you see the cliffs, and the clear waters of the open sea. Pipa is Tibau do Sui's best-known beach and it is

something you cannot afford to miss, an obligatory destination for

anyone visiting the south coast. The best excursions are ones to the Ecological Sanctuary, and to Golfinhos Bay.

Sunset at the Baia Formosa lighthouse, an almost deserted south coast beach 104 km from Natal , will stay in your memory forever.

Pipe Beach RIO Grande do Norte Northea

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IIhabela - Saco do Sombrio, Castelhanos, Jabaquara, Juliao and Bonete

IIhabela, an island of 352 km' , is on Sao Paulo State's north coast and is the

biggest of Brazil's maritime islands. The greens of the forest on the island

blend with the greens of the surround ing sea. In a former age, the Saco do Sombrio was a hideout for pirates, but today it is a refuge for many tourists

who enjoy the quiet transparent waters there. Surfing and diving are done at

the Castelhanos Beach, where clear waters and abundant marine life are

always found . 14 km from the center of IIhabela is Jabaquara. Access to Jabaquara is by an asphaited road as far as Pacuiba beach, and from there,

along a 5 km long trail. Jabaquara is much visited for fishing and subacqua

hunting. There the visitor will find a stream at each end of the beach and one of them forms a small lake. At the Juliao Beach, the sea is very calm and it

is perfect for bathing. You can take the chance to observe marine life. At the

southern end of IIhabela you will come across a little fishing village where the

fishermen sti ll keep up traditions of the original colonizers. There is also a beach there known as Bonete Beach.

Sao Sebastiao - Camburi, Camburizinho, Juquei and Maresias Trails, beautiful waterfalls and surfing all make Maresias one of the most

visi ted beaches on the north coast of Sao Paulo. A peninsula separates

Camburi and Camburizinho, but the two of them have some of the most

beautiful scenery in the region. Juquei has an excellent beach ideal for water sports, with transparent waters, modest waves and a broad stretch of

sand, as well as good infrastructure in the form of hotels, condominiums and

restaurants.

__ 4. ' L-: .•.

Ubatuba - Domingas Dias, Felix, Cedro and Paruba Clean quiet waters and large rocks along the coast make Domingas Dias

Beach one of the most beautiful in Ubatuba.

Felix Beach along with its natural pools offer a good opportunity for diving.

At one end of the beach the sea comes in big waves and it is possible to surf

there. At the height of the season from December to February and July to

August, and over long weekends the main gathering spots are the Cedro and

Paruba beaches with their dense vegetation and crystal clear waters.

Tips for getting the most out of our beaches:

• Always use sun block and drink plenty of water to keep yourself hydrated.

• Wear light comfortable clothing.

• Check tide tables to see the best times for bathing.

• Find out where the best bathing spots are. • Show respect for Nature and make the very best of your holidays.

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Imagine 8 million square kilometers with 57 National parks as well as biosphere

reserves and areas of environmental

preservation, eight of which have been registered as World Natural Heritages by

UNESCO. That's Brazil. A place like very

few others in the world where Nature is at

her most grandiose. And speaking of all that is grandiose, you need to get to know

the Amazon, one of the natural wonders of

our planet.

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The Amazon For those arriving in Brazil by plane, the green of the Amazon is impressive. The area of the legally defined Amazon region

in this country is over 5 million square kilometers spread out over the states of Para, Amazonas, Rondonia , Roraima, Acre and Amapa, as well as parts of the states of Tocantins, Mato Grosso and Mato Grosso do SuI. Together they correspond

to the greatest reserve of tropical forest in the world . One of the greatest biodiversities in the world is also found in the

Amazon: 1.5 million plant species, 2 thousand species of fish , about 950 types of birds, 300 mammal species, as well as

countless insect, reptile and amphibian species already catalogued . There are animals like the Amazon manatee over two

Page 23: Brazil a Sensational Country

meters long, Ihe Scarlet Ibis, flocks of which lend a special splash of color to

the afternoons of the Marajo Island with their brilliant scarlet plumage; or the poraque, an electric eel that uses an electrical discharge to stun its prey. Most

of the Amazon fauna inhabits the canopy formed by the treetops some 50

meters above the forest floor.

This biome, which occupies 49.29% of Brazilian territory, is made up of 10 ecosystems varying from dense forest to semi-permanent flooded forest or

igapos, and the systems are distributed in 23 eco-regions and transition zones with neighboring biomes like the Cerrado savannahs, the Caatinga scrublands

and the Pantanal wetlands. In the Amazon region you will be introduced to the

Amazon River, a South American river that has its source in the Andes and

flows out into the Atlantic Ocean, alongside the Marajo Island in the state of

Para.

It is the longest river in the world and the largest hydrographical basin. It is also the most voluminous, with a volume of water 56 times greater than that of the

River Nile. The gateway to so much natural beauty is Manaus, a metropolis of

almost 1.5 million people and the capital of the State of Amazonas, the largest

Brazilian State in area.

Manaus is impressive for its natural beauties, ecological parks, and large

green spaces. The hotel infrastructure meets the needs of not only visitors

on business, with hotels that are located in the city center, but also, the more

adventurous, with jungle hotels that can only be accessed by boat on the

Negro River.

Page 24: Brazil a Sensational Country

A trip not to be missed

Boat Rides

To get some idea of the immensity of the Amazon Forest, the only way is to

take an enchanting trip on a boat up the vast waters of the Negro River. The acidity of the water deters mosquitoes and makes this one of the best options.

The trips on the Negro River usually depart from Manaus. Other tributaries of

the Amazon are also worth visiting, as for example, the Tapaj6s River that cuts through the beautiful Amazon National Park.

Other Attractions

Amazon National Park

The Tapaj6s River cuts through the Amazon National Park. Numerous other small rivers and streams rise in the area and flow into the Tapaj6s forming

impressive rapids with rocky outcrops and sandbanks.

The Park is located on the left bank of the Tapaj6s River in the municipality of Itaituba, State of Para , and a small part of it lies in the municipality of Maues, in

the State of Amazonas. Most of the area of the park is covered by high-ground

humid forest with numerous, varied species of trees , the tallest of which being

50 meters in height. Among the commonest species are the rubber trees (Hevea brasiliensis and Hevea benthamiana), the Brazil nut trees (Berthol/etia

excelsa) , striped angelim (Pithecolobium racemosum), Freijo (Cordia

goeldiana) , the acapu or Wacapou (Vouacapoua americana), massarandubas (Manilkara spp) and the typically Brazilian Amazon Rosewood (Dalbergia

spruceana). Along the courses of the rivers are also alluvial forests classified

into varzeas and igap6s and abounding in Cabbage palms (Euterpe oleracea) and the Ite Palm (Mauritia f/exuosa) .

The mammalian fauna in the park is one of the most varied in the world . There

you will find the great anteater (Mymercophaga tridactyla), the giant armadillo (Priodontes giganteus), the vinegar bush dog (Speothos venaticus) and the

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short-eared bush dog (Atelocynus microtis) , all threatened

with extinction, as well as the giant Brazilian otter (Pteronura brasiliensis), the Amazonian Manatee (Trichechus inunguis) ,

two species of dolphin (lniageoffrensis and Sotalia fluviatilis)

and the common otter (Lontra sp).

The same degree of variety can be found among the birds with representatives of over 250 species present, some of

which are also under threat of extinction. Among the waders

there is the Capped Heron (Pilherodius pileatus) , the Cocoi

Heron (Ardea cocoi), and the Roseate Spoonbill (Ajaia

ajaia) and there are various species of macaws, parrots

and parakeets. Other endangered species are the King

Vulture (Sarcoramphus papa) and the Harpy Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos).

Reptiles are also well represented in the park. Among them: three species of turtle, including the South American river

turtle or tartaruga (Podocnemis expansa) which is quite

common; the Spectacled Caiman (Caiman crocodilus), the Black Caiman (Melanosuchus niger), the Bushmaster snake (Lachesis muta) and the Emerald Tree Boa

(Coral/us caninus), as well as five varieties of frogs.

The Arapaima (Arapaima gigas) , sometimes called the

Brazilian codfish, is the biggest fish inhabiting the rivers in

the region. Tambaquis (Colossoma spp) are also common as are the Peacock Bass (Cichla ocel/aris and Cichla temensis) .

These species find ideal conditions in the park for reproducing

and maintaining their populations. The park has very limited

infrastructure capable of accommodating 25 people.

The best time for visiting is in the winter (southern hemisphere)

from July to October when the days are cloudless and

the temperature is pleasant. The distance from the city of

Santarem is 370 km.

The Amazon Forest

Page 26: Brazil a Sensational Country

Foz do Igua~u. Parana State

Brazil is a country of many waters and Iguassu Falls is one of its most

beautiful spectacles. The 275 waterfalls found there wi th drops of up to 60

meters belong to the I gua~u National Park, an ecological reserve of 185 thousand hectares, registered by UNESCO as a World Natural Heritage.

In this area alone, almost 400 bird species have been registered and

50 mammalian species, among them the jaguar and the puma. Another

outstanding presence is that of the 257 species of butterfl ies. Local

infrastructu re is well prepared to welcome you, your friends and your family for

an unforgettable trip.

Approximate distances from :

Brasilia : 1,574 km

Curitiba: 647 km Rio de Janeiro: 1,458 km

Sao Paulo: 1,015 km

A Trip not to be missed

Boat trips

Seeing the cataracts from a different angle can be a great adventure. The trip on the Igua~u River will take you in perfect safety, to within five meters of the

falling waters . Large inflatable rafts run up over the rapids to give you a view of

the tremendous scenery and see the cataracts from below them. The trip ends

at the Tres Mosqueteiros Falls .

Other Attractions

A walk along the cataracts as far as the edge of the

Garganta do Diabo The excursion begins in the sub-tropica l forest of the I gua~u National Park

giving you an opportunity to observe the falls of the cataracts, which are 2,700

meters wide. During the walk along the trails take the opportunity to observe the local fauna and flora. The Park preserves an area of Atlantic Forest

vegetation with great diversity among the animal species, some of which are

endangered species like the jaguar and the purple-breasted parrot.

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Po~o Preto Trail - This passes through the exuberant vegetation of the National Park. The walk takes about five hours. You can observe the bird-life and take

photos. Specialized guides will accompany you and lend support.

Parque das Aves (Bird Park) - This is located near to the National Park in

an area of 17 hectares of native forest. It is considered to be an ecological

sanctuary. You wi ll begin your excursion on a paved trai l, which will take you

in amongst immense bird enclosures that have been integrated with the native

forest, and here you will find information on the 900 birds belonging to 150

species, that can be found there. The butterfly enclosure is another attraction

with 25 species represented . There is also a section devoted to repti les. All of the animals can be observed from a distance of just a few meters.

Itaipu Hydroelectric Dam and panoramic lookout points in the region - The Itaipu Hydroelectric Dam was constructed on the Parana River and gave rise to

the Itaipu lake which borders on 15 municipalities altogether. The Hydroelectric

plant belongs to Brazil and Paraguay. Visi ting is monitored and you can get

to see the outdoor installations, passing along the top of the dam wall and by the lookout point where there is a view of the overflow channel which forms

a huge curtain of water. Itaipu Hydroelectric plant is a world record holder in

terms of generating electricity and has been considered by the American Civil Engineering Society as one of the seven modern wonders of the world. Itaipu

Lake offers many attractions such as artificial beaches, boat rides and regattas,

clubs, marinas and parks.

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Fernando de Noronha. Pernambuco State

Fernando de Noronha is also a World Natural Heritage. Part of this archipelago of 21 islands is a National Marine Park and an Environmental Protection

Area. Surrounded by loving care and attention, the Island protects its fauna

that has spinner dolphins and migratory birds among its main attractions. The flora has a characteristic that is extremely rare in oceanic islands: mangrove

swamps. The trai ls are your means of visiting the beaches and visits are permitted with due authorization from IBAMA - Brazilian Institute for the

Environment and Renewable Natural Resources. Indeed, protecting natural

and cu ltural resources is the basis of sustainable tourism and consequently,

that of Fernando de Noronha also. Here the aim is to establish equilibrium between man and Nature. Thus we have managed to offer good infrastructure

to welcome you and at the same time, preserve one of the most important ecological sanctuaries in the world .

Approximate distances' from:

Recife: 540 km (1h40 by plane)

Brasilia/Recife: 2,189 km Rio de Janeiro/Recife: 2,353 km

Sao Pau lo/Recife: 2,666 km

Natal: 360 km (1h10 by plane) Brasilia/Nata l: 2,478 km

Rio de Janeiro/Natal: 2,642 km

Sao Paulo/Natal: 2,955 km

"Departures to Femando de Noronha are

always from Recife and Natal.

A trip not to be missed

TAMAR Project - Nature Center for Marine Turtle Conservation and

Management Fernando de Noronha is a reproduction site for the green turtle (Chelonia

mydas), which lays its eggs in the period from January to June. 80% of

all laying takes place on the Leao beach and the remainder along the beaches facing the Mar de Dentro (inner sea) on the stretch between

Sancho and Boldr6 beaches, also a feeding area for young Hawksbill turtles

(Eretmochelys imbicata) and green turtles . Outstanding for the excellent

conditions it offers for undertaking research into marine turtle behavior,

the Fernando de Noronha archipelago is now one of the main bases of

the TAMAR project. This project TAMARlIBAMA (Brazilian Institute for the Environment and Renewable Natural Resources) has a visitor's center with

excellent infrastructure including an amphitheatre, shop, cafe, exhibition

space, and a kiosk with CD-ROMs on offer, an office and the services

of young guides. At the Center you can attend lectures on the theme of environmental preservation that take place every evening.

Page 29: Brazil a Sensational Country

Other attractions

Dos Porcos Bay - Unparalleled warm, turquoise-blue waters and some dark rocks make up one of the most beautiful views in Brazil. Together they form natural

aquariums full of colorful fish . In front of the beach there are two great rocks known

as Dois Irmilos. On the high ground are the ruins of the Silo Joilo Batista Fort from where you can look out over all the beauty. Access to the ruins is along a trail.

Morro do Pico - Fernando de Noronha has a very irregular relief with various high points . The biggest of them is Morro do Pico, 323 meters high . This hill, the most

beautiful and most important natural landmark on the island can be seen from

all points of Fernando de Noronha . Among its rocks you can find the ruins of the Santa Cruz do Pico Fort.

Dois Irmaos Rocks - These two islands got their name, which means "Two

Brothers", from being so much alike. They are made up of dark volcanic rocks with whitish streaks of rare beauty.

lookout Point Trail above Golfinhos Bay and watching the spinner dolphins - Golfinhos Bay is the place selected by these mammals to rest, breed, and suckle

their young. It is considered to be the world 's largest natural aquarium of this species

of animal. Access to the bay itself is forbidden but they can be observed from a lookout point. This lookout spot is at the top of a 70 meter-high cliff and you can

get there along a trail that starts and ends at Quixaba, better known as Cacimba

do Padre Beach, one of the longest beaches on the island. The trail lies inside the

limits of the National Marine Park. You will need to obtain permission from IBAMA (Brazilian Institute for the Environment and Renewable Natural Resources) and be

accompanied by licensed guides. The dolphins can be watched every day. At sunrise

the dolphins enter the bay and in the afternoon they go off to feed on small fish and

squid in the open sea.

Boat rides on the Mar de Dentro (inner sea) - On this trip you will get a wide view of Fernando de Noronha's beaches and its surrounding islets.

Buggy rides - Trips around the island can be made by buggy. Having the wind

blowing over your face and enjoying the beautiful scenery is always a great feeling.

A trail in Fernando de Noronha

Page 30: Brazil a Sensational Country

Pantanal. Mato Grosso and Mato

Grosso do Sul States Nature has kept some wonderful surprises in

store in this part of the planet. Get to know

the Pantanal and see at first hand the biggest

wetland plain in the world and the third biggest environmental reserve on

Earth. This natural paradise is one of the best places there is for observing

fauna and flora, especially for bird watching and sport angling. It is divided

into northern and southern sectors and sub-divided into 11 specific areas,

each with its own specific natural characteristics, activities and season for

visiting. The portals of the Pantanal are open to welcome you . The best time

for sport angling is from March to October when the legal fishing season is

open. The dry season is from April to December with only occasional showers

and a pleasant temperature prevailing. It is the best time of the year for

observing the fauna .

A trip not to be missed

Northern Pantanal - Mato Grosso Boat rides in the Pantanal National Park

A boat ride is the only way to get to know the Pantanal National Park.

The boat departs from Porto Jofre, duly authorized by IBAMA (Brazilian

Institute for the Environment and Renewable Natural Resources). Do not

forget to take along with you insect repeliant, sun block, a hat or cap, and

waterproof boots. You should also take along some light food, fruits and

water. There is no accommodation inside the Park and so you will not be

able to stay there overnight. If you are a person that enjoys observing flora

and fauna then this is just the program for you .

Page 31: Brazil a Sensational Country

Other attractions

The Paraguay River - The Paraguay River cuts across the states of Mato

Grosso and Mato Grosso do Sui and the whole of the Pantanal. From

October to April , the flooding forms enormous lakes, bays, and stretches of river and drainage channels. On the boat ride you will get to know and see

all the beautiful scenery.

Transpantaneira Highway - This is a dirt road 149 km long with 126

bridges. It begins in the municipality of Pocone and ends in the municipality

of Porto Jofre, on the banks of the Cuiaba River, which since 1977 has marked the border between the States of Mato Grosso and Mato Grosso

do SuI. Along the way you will come across wild animals, especially

alligators, capybaras , birds and others. Early in the morning and at the end of the afternoon are the best times for watching the fauna .

Bird watching - In the Pantanal you can go on foot or on horseback to observe the local fauna . 161 different bird species have been registered in

the region but it is thought that there may be many other species that do

not appear there in the usual observation periods.

Photographic Safaris - Get your camera ready and come and participate

in one of Pantanal's most special programs, riding in a 4-wheel drive

vehicle, on horseback or in canoes.

Piranha fishing - Even if you have never done any fishing before you will have fun in this unusual fishing experience, catching "piranhas". Armed

with a fishing rod and a piece of meat on board a boat or from the banks of

the river, the fishing begins.

Barao de Melgac;o - Located in the State of Mato Grosso, here you

can enjoy a really good boat ride around the bays of Chacorore and Sia

Mariana to do some bird watching or go shining alligators at night.

Rondonopolis - Within this municipality in the State of Mato Grosso you can

visit 21 archeological sites.

Caceres - The Araras Mountain is located in Caceres, in the State of Mato

Grosso do SuI. Here you will see sheer rock faces with waterfalls tumbling down them. Also, in Caceres there is an annual International Fishing Festival

at the end of September. In addition to competitions, fishing from boats or

canoes, there is youth competition fishing from the banks. During the festival there are various other sporting and cultural attractions like a beach-volleyball

championship, beach football , national and local shows as well as Art and

Fishing workshops and much more.

Page 32: Brazil a Sensational Country

A trip not to be missed

South Pantanal - Mato Grosso do SuI

Fishing in the rivers Negro, Miranda, Vermelho, Sao Lourenlfo and

Touromorto These rivers run through a region of extraordinary beauty. They fiow by ancient

traditional farms and their hydrographical characteristics are very unusual as they begin and end in extensive waterlogged areas so that it is almost

impossible to get to them by boat and hard to access them by road too. Sport

fishing is the big attraction in these fiooded areas.

Pantanal Vegetation. Malo Grosso do Sui

Other attractions

Estrada Parque Highway - The Estrada Parque, in Mato Grosso do Sui

State, is 117 km long, with 87 wooden bridges and crosses the fiooded

plain with its rich biodiversity and beautiful natural scenery. The ecosystem characteristics of the Pantanal and of the Cerrado savannahs predominate in

the region . Here you will have an opportunity to see aquatic birds, mammals

and alligators as well as the wonderful fiowering of the Golden Trumpet trees

(Tabebuia) and Acrocomia palms.

Pantane ira Art Museum in Aquidauana - This museum pays homage to

Rubens Correa, a great actor on the Brazilian stage and in television , who

was born in Aquidauana. Located in the State of Mato Grosso do Sui , the

Museum hosts innumerable cultural events .

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Bonito. State of Mato Grosso do Sul

Crystal-clear waters, grottos, waterfalls, Bonito is surprisingly beautiful.

Preserving the environment here is something more than a sustainability

strategy; it is a philosophy of life. In getting to know Bonito you will always be accompanied by licensed local gu ides well trained to show you the best and

loveliest natural attractions. In this region the number of tourists in each visit is

limited for each attraction. This precaution is to ensure that negative impacts

on the environment will be min imized and to see that Bonito continues to

preserve those special touches that nature has left for us.

Approximate distances from:

Brasilia : 1,396 km Campo Grande: 303 km

Rio de Janeiro: 1,574 km

Sao Paulo: 1,131 km

A trip not to be missed

Lago Azul Grotto

Visit this incredible geological formation in limestone rocks, 120 meters wide

and 70 meters deep full of curious secondary mineral formations. Inside the grotto you will find a lake of transparent waters that looks more like an

enormous blue mirror. The best time for visiting is from November to January,

from 8 am to midday.

Other attractions

Rio da Prata Ecological Refuge - the ideal spot for walks or for floating in the Olhos d 'Agua River.

Buraco das Araras - You will see a real sanctuary for macaws. The trail

goes around a hill that has an opening of 500 meters across, penetrating 124 meters into the hill.

Natural Aquarium, Bonita Bay Ecological Park - You can do some floating (face-down with a schnorkel), in the first 600 meters downstream from the

source of the Bonita Bay River. Along the Animals Trail, which is also part

of the ecological reserve , you may see species of local animals like rheas,

armadillos , manned wolves, alligators and anacondas.

Going down the Formoso River and exploring natural underwater

cavities - After a 2 km walk through the forest, there is floating to be done

on the transparent waters of the Formoso River with its rapids and rocky outcrops.

Sao Miguel Grotto - You will come to a trail with bridges suspended in the middle of the native vegetation . Located inside the Nature Reserve Vale

Anhumas Ecological Park, it is considered to be one of the best programs

Bonito has to offer.

Page 34: Brazil a Sensational Country

Estancia Mimosa Ecotourism - Take part in walks and refreshing dips in the waterfalls like Mutum, Saito dos Desejos and Mulungu.

Formoso River Ecological Park - Go down the trails through the exuberant flora of the gallery forest and the Formoso River.

Baia Bonita Ecological Reserve - Practice free diving in waters that are among the most transparent in the world.

Balneario do Sol - On the banks of the Formoso River you will fi nd a magic

spot. Here you can swim in the natural swimming pools as well as the river

itself, in the company of fish such as the Piraputangas (Characin), Curimbas and Dourados, with lovely waterfalls completing the picture. You can also

have fun on the trampoline and other amusements like volleyball courts and

beach football . The Balneario do Sol bathing resort is 12 km from Bonito, in the state of Mato Grosso do SuI.

Barra do Sucuri - Become fami liar with Nature in the most beautiful state of

preservation and environmental equ ilibrium. Make the best of the tra ils and opportunities for floating .

Do Padre Island - You wi ll become a fan of the many waterfalls and natural

pools on this island in the middle of the Formoso River.

Peixe River - Go along a forest trail full of bird life that leads to 11 waterfalls and natural bathing pools with clear waters for floating , diving and observing

fish .

Anhumas Abyss - A cleft in the ground that is the mouth of sheer walled abyss. You wi ll need rappel techniques to get down to the bottom, wh ich

is 72 meters below the surface. There you will find a lake that is 80 meters

deep and where divers can observe the curious limestone formations.

Page 35: Brazil a Sensational Country
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Lenc;6is Maranhenses. State of Maranhao

The Lent;:6is Maranhenses seem like a mirage, but they are really an oasis in the

middle of the desert, a sea of white sand dunes stretching 70 km along the coast

and advancing in an inland direction. Among the dunes, some of which are up to

40 meters high, there are many lakes of warm crystal-clear water, some blue and

some an amazing green. The whole area is part of the Lent;:6is Maranhenses

National Park, created to protect the ecosystem consisting of 155 thousand

hectares. Access to the Lent;:6is is through the municipality of Barreirinhas.

Approximate distances from:

Sao Luis (Capital of the State of Maranhao) to the city of Barreirinhas

(gateway to the Park) : 252 km

Brasilia/Sao Luis: 2,054 km

Rio de Janeiro/Sao Luis : 3,009 km

Sao Paulo/Sao Luis: 2,939 km

A trip not to be missed

Lakes and pools - There are no shortage of lakes in the Lent;:6is

Maranhenses. There are lakes to suit everyone. The Lagoa Azul and

the Lagoa Bonita are much visited for bathing. Their waters are blue

and crystal clear. Jeeps departing from Barreirinhas can get to them.

To get to the Lagoa Bonita , you must cross the Preguit;:as River, and

then from there its a two-hour jeep ride along a sandy trail. Upon

arrival you will have to climb up a 40-meter high dune with the help of

supporting ropes of course. To get to Lagoa Azul takes only an hour

but many people like to make the trip at the end of the day to watch

the beautiful sunset that the place has to offer.

Other Attractions

Pregui!ias River - Take a trip on this river that runs through the Len96is

Maranhenses. It is a river of calm waters that flow into the sea at Atins, a large

fishing community. The Preguic;;as River is bordered by native vegetation with a

great abundance of palm trees.

Page 37: Brazil a Sensational Country

henses Maranhllo, Northeast

Page 38: Brazil a Sensational Country

Get to know other destinations and become a fan of all of them. Become a fan of the natural beauties of Manaus in the State of Amazonas Here, man and Nature live together in harmony. Beautiful views, Ecological Parks and wide

green areas can be found side by side with a high-tech industrial park, as well as a rich

architecture that dates back to the age of the rubber boom. For anyone visiting the state of

Amazonas , a really unforgettable trip would be to see the meeting of the waters of the Negro

River, which flow by Manaus, and the Solimoes River. The two flow along in parallel for 10 kilometers without mixing their waters in a real combat of power and beauty.

Become a fan of the Mamiraua Reserve in the State of Amazonas Together with the Amana Reserve and the Jau National Park, the Mamiraua Reserve makes up the

greatest area of protected seasonally flooded forest in the world. With its 1 million hectares of lakes,

seasonally flooded lands and forest, the Mamiraua Sustainable Development Reserve is a model for projects for the protection of vast expanses of forest.

Become a fan of the radical scenery in Jalapao, in the State of Tocantins Waterfalls, streams, lakes and dunes of fine reddish sands in the midst of Cerrado savannah

vegetation - in the middle of all this, the perfect scenery for radical sports like rafting , canyoning and vertical sports .

Page 39: Brazil a Sensational Country

Become a fan of the meeting of the waters at Alter do Chao. in the State of Para Alter do Chao is one of the loveliest freshwater beaches in the world. Visit a lake that changes its color. beaches of fine sand and clear waters that appear or disappear according to the rise and fall of the Tapaj6s River.

Become a fan of the 3.014 meters of the Pica da Neblina. in the State of Amazonas The Pico da Neblina National Park is home to one of the richest faunas in the country with

representatives of several species under threat of extinction . It is also endowed with some of the most

beautiful and diversified landscapes imaginable. It is the second largest Brazilian park and the third

largest in Latin America . Within its mountain range. the Pico da Neblina mountain can be found , the highest point in Brazilian territory with an altitude of 3,014 meters. The Pico da Neblina is the object of permanent attention from scientists and researchers .

Become a fan of the natural bathing pools of the Pedra Azul State Park in the State of Espfrito Santo Through various trails wending among the rocks you can get to nine beautifu l natural bathing pools. In

the Pedra Azul State Park it is still possible to come across various species of a diversified fauna , such

as the brown capuchin monkey, armadillo, collared anteater, ocelot, toucan , bare-throated bell bird , gray brocket deer, crab-eating raccoon , grayish saltator, and thrushes, as well as some animals under threat

of extinction like the buffy-headed marmoset, the jaguar and the barbado.

Pico da Neblloa, Amazonas

Page 40: Brazil a Sensational Country

Become a fan of the various ecosystems of the Aparados da Serra National Park in the State of Rio Grande do SuI There are various ecosystems and transition zones within them. The

landscapes in the Aparados da Serra include the Atlantic Forest, a humid sub-tropical forest with broad-leafed perennial plants, Araucaria Pine Forests

and a low-type of vegetation known in the region as Matinho Nebular. Atlantic

Forest vegetation , present in the lowest parts of the canyons are among the

ecosystems with the greatest diversity in the world , and many species found

there are exclusive to this environment. The Araucaria Pine Forest formations appear in widely scattered concentrations on high ground whilst the Matinha

Nebular is found on the edges of escarpments.

SAo Joaqulm ~al Park, Santa Calarina

Become a fan of the heights in the Sao Joaquim National Park. in the State of Santa Catarina With an altitude of over 2,000 meters above sea level , like the Igreja

Mountain, which is much visited by climbers, the Sao Joaquim National Park

is outstandingly beautiful. It is situated in Cambara do Sui , one of the very few regions in Brazil where the mean annual temperature does not exceed 14"C

and also where it snows quite often.

Become a fan of fascinating Ilha Grande. in the State of Rio de Janeiro IIha Grande is an irresistible invitation to water sports, diving and long treks

along the trails in the Atlantic Forest. There are 106 beaches with natural

bathing pools, waterfalls and well-preserved forests. The Marinho do

Aventureiro State Park and the Sui Beach Biological Reserve are on the side

of the island that faces the open sea.

Page 41: Brazil a Sensational Country

Birds and animals watching Become a fan of Alta Floresta, in the State of Mato Grosso This meeting place of tropical forest and cerrado

savannahs has a unique beauty of its own , Alta

Floresta is one of the main tourism spots in the Amazon

region . It has modern shops and businesses and good hotel infrastructure including jungle hotels. The virgin forest, with century-old

trees , guarantees the sustenance of monkeys, tapirs , deer, and over 400

species of birds , including macaws, toucans and parrots.

Become a fan of the Humpback whales at Caravelas, Prado and Abrolhos, in the State of Bahia The Abrolhos National Marine Park is located in this region and is a paradise for the humpback whales, dolphins and migratory birds that can be seen here

in the months from July to November. The main activity here is scuba diving.

Indeed, Abrolhos is said to be one of the best diving spots in the country with

underwater visibility of up to 20 meters. Coral reefs, volcanic islands and part

of the continental shelf form it and the marine fauna is very rich and abundant.

The gateways to Abrolhos are the municipalities of Caravel as and Prado.

Become a fan of the greatest ~ ~ tropical forest in the world at the lliill ~lf. Jau National Park, in the State of Amazonas UNESCO has registered the Jau National Park as

a World Natural Heritage. It is the largest National Park in Brazil and the largest in the world in terms

of untouched tropical rainforest. The vegetation is

made up of a mosaic of forest formations inhabited

by over 460 species of birds and 300 types of fish . On the banks of the rivers you can find alligators ,

egrets and herons, macaws and parrots and

there are also threatened species like the giant Amazon turtle or tartaruga ,

the spectacled caiman , the smaller Tracaja turtle, the Jacaretinga (Common

Caiman) , the Jacare-Ayu (Black Caiman), the King Vulture, the black uacari

monkey, the otter, the Ocelot, the jaguar and the Amazonian Manatee which is

a mammal.

Become a fan of the aquatic fauna of Barcelos, in the State of Amazonas The big attraction in this city surrounded by water, is sport angling , an

enormous amount of tropical ornamental fish are produced here too. In this region lies a part of the Jau National Park, the Serra do Araya National Park

and the Mamiraua Environmental Protection Area which encompasses the

largest fluvial archipelago in the world , with over 1,200 islands. The main way

to get to Barcelos is by river. It lies 396 km to the northwest of Manaus as the crow flies , but it is 495 km for those who journey up the River Negro.

Page 42: Brazil a Sensational Country

Become a fan of the calm waters of Maraj6 Island. in the State of Para

It is the largest river island in the world with beautiful beaches and calm

waters divided among 12 municipalities. Here you can walk around the white sand dunes as well as observing the great variety of bird life along with the

various types of fish . To visit the streams, wetlands , pasturelands and forests,

make your excursions in jeeps, boats or on horseback. The water buffalo

is the symbol of this region and is present in transportation and cuisine, the handicrafts are made of its hide.

Become a fan of the Cerrado savannahs of the

Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park. in the State of de Goias

Registered as a World Natural Heritage, this Park has 60 thousand hectares

of protected Cerrado ecosystem. The Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park is located on top of an immense plaque of crystal quartz. Specialized loca l

guides, among them. former crystal miners who have been specially trained

to welcome you, always accompany visits. Here you will see beautiful scenery

and va rious species of animals typical of the region like the maned wol f,

savannah deer and rheas.

Become a fan of the Xing6 Canyon and Piranhas. in the States of Sergipe and Alagoas

The interior of the State of Sergipe is unforgettable. There are great valleys

that form canyons with walls 50 meters high in some parts. On a boat ride

between these immense rock walls you will see river islands and the nesting

places of egrets. Although the construction of the Xing6 Hydroelectric dam and

plant has made it possible to navigate on the backed up water in the canyon, access is in fact through the city of Piranhas, in the neighboring State of

Alagoas . Thus, you not only get to see the canyon but you can visit the historic

areas of the city of Piranhas too.

Page 43: Brazil a Sensational Country

ba, Santa Catarina

Become a fan of the scenery in the Chapada Diamantina National Park, in the State of Bahia At Chapada Diamantina there is no need to use your imagination. Nature

has done it all for you. There are mountains, sheer rock faces, high plateaus,

rivers , and pools of transparent water. Chapada Diamantina has many springs and headwaters that give rise to 35 rivers. The fauna is very rich and the fiora

includes many species of orquids and Bromeliads, the typical "canela-de ema"

and many evergreens too. Here is a unique opportunity to get closer to nature.

The Pai Inacio Hill , the Fuma9a Waterfall and the colored sand formations are not to be missed.

Become a fan of the unique species of the Serra do Cip6 National Park, in the State of Minas Gerais The vegetation is extremely varied . The Park is home to a great number of species, many of which are endemic to the region . It is also one of the world 's

largest. It has the most extraordinary presence of "campo rupestre" vegetation

(found among rocky outcrops above certain altitudes) in the whole of Brazil.

Add all this to the famous waterfalls, rivers, canyons, rock faces for climbing , caves and trails and you have yourself a delightful trip. The Farofa Waterfall

and the Bandeirinhas Canyon are also unforgettable visits.

Become a fan of the Garopaba Coast, in the State of Santa Catarina Garopaba is one of the regions with the most beautiful beaches on the Santa Catarina coast. It is also a favorite among surfers because of its spectacular

waves. To complete the picture, everywhere you look, there are lakes,

mountains, rivers or long stretches of beach between rocky headlands.

Ecological trails in the forest, waterfalls, and various eco-tourism activities are part of the daily options at the beaches. From July to November, Santa

Catarina receives illustrious visitors in the form of the Right whales that come

seeking their warm, shallow waters in order to suckle their young.

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Become a fan of the Atlantic Forest in the Serra da Bocaina National Park. in the State of Rio de Janeiro The richest continuous example of Atlantic Forest vegetation in Brazil is found

between Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro. Come and get to know the Serra

da Bocaina and take an adventurous trip along the trails , to the waterfalls and peaks, and see the region's incredible views. The Gold Trail is the route

formerly taken by the slaves transporting gold from Minas Gerais down to

the coast. The range of mountains is full of historical constructions like the Pharmacia Popular in Bananal, dating back to 1830, which is the oldest working pharmacy in Brazil.

Speleotourism Become a fan of the diversity of Terra Ronca, in the State of Goias This is a dream-place for speleologists, tourists and adventurers. Grottos,

caves, natural beauty, extremely rich fauna and flora , rivers of crystal-clear

waters forming underground lakes and the enormous halls inside the caves

with stalagmite and stalactite formations. Biodiversity is also high: over 150 bird species and 50 mammalian species have been registered here.

Page 45: Brazil a Sensational Country

Become a fan of the caves in the Alto Ribeira State Tourism Park -PETAR. in the State of Sao Paulo With its 35,712 hectares, the PETAR is the oldest Park in the state of Sao

Paulo. It is home to a rich heritage of the Alto Ribeira region: the biodiversity

of the remaining stands of Atlantic Forest, besides the paleontological, archeological and historic sites. Here you can find one of Brazil 's most

important speleological provinces with over 250 registered caves. Several of

these caves can be visited, but the use of safety equipment is obligatory.

Become a fan of the Cordisburgo grottos in the State of Minas Gerais Imagine the 900 million years it took to form the great vaults and labyrinths.

That is what it is all about. Cordisburgo is considered to be the birthplace

of Brazilian paleo-anthropology. Here, human and animal bones along with

primitive utensils have been discovered. Here is also home to one of the most beautiful grottos in the world - Maquine, which rates a three star classification ,

the highest of its kind . In addition to its beauty and its speleological importance,

Maquine has preserved real archeological secrets like the remains of

prehistoric animals, among them, the sabre-toothed tiger.

Tips for making the most of Nature:

• Pay attention to the restrictions and respect the principles of eco­

tourism and sustainable tourism. This will make your trip even better.

Mother Nature will be grateful.

• Find out about restrictions that exist in the Parks and Reserves like opening and closing times, and accompaniment by local guides,

among others.

• Use appropriate safety equipment when practicing eco-tourism-related sports.

Page 46: Brazil a Sensational Country
Page 47: Brazil a Sensational Country

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Our mountains, waterfalls, rapids,

canyons, rock faces and an infinite

variety of beautiful scenery inspire

professional athletes and amateur sportsmen and women of various

radical sports like canyoning ,

vertical sports, bungee jumping, rafting, canoeing , para-gliding and

hang-gliding. And there is much

more in the rest of Brazil. With their privileged infrastructure and their

location in wonderful surroundings,

our golf courses have become a

major attraction for enthusiasts of the sport. If you think that that is

all , just remember that Brazil has the largest volume of fresh water

in the world as well as an immense

coastline of over 8 thousand

kilometers, so it is no wonder that

water sports, sport angling, surfing

and scuba-diving are among this country's greatest passions .

Now, imagine living one of these

passions intensely in real paradise spots like Fernando de Noronha,

one of the best diving locations in

the world , impossible to resist.

Page 48: Brazil a Sensational Country

• Fernando de Noronha

Fernando de Noronha. in the State of Pernambuco

Whether you are in the water, or out of it, Fernando de Noronha is a paradise. Part of the

archipelago made up of 21 islands is a National Marine Park and an Area of Environmental

Protection, and you can be sure that very few paradises on the Earth are so well protected . The sea is divided by the island into: the Mar de Dentro (inner sea) on the side of the island facing in

the direction of the Brazilian coast where the sea is calmer; and the Mar de Fora (outer sea) on the

side facing out towards Africa . The Mar de Dentro (inner sea) is quietest in the months from April to November and there are waves from December to March, whereas in the outer sea, diving depends

on the conditions of the seas and the time of year.

Page 49: Brazil a Sensational Country

The seas around Fernando de Noronha are a show of colors and life. To see the fish, rays , sharks, turtles, moray eels, sponges, algas, rock formations,

corals and wrecks the diver can count on visibility in the water of up to 50

meters and a mean temperature of 27"C. This means that the island is considered to be one of the best diving spots in the world for all categories of

certification . Local operators supply the necessary equipment and transport.

If you have never taken a course in diving, you can do so right there as long

as you make arrangements beforehand. Those who already hold divers' licenses can carry out free dives with cylinders and other equipment. For

those who are beginners, there are the so-called "Baptisms" where the person

diving is accompanied side-by-side by an instructor. Instructors duly licensed by international organizations accompany all groups. The excursions are so

customized and personal that even the number of visiting tourists is limited.

The best time for diving at Fernando de Noronha is in the months from August to November, when the waters of the Mar de Dentro (inner sea), on the side

facing toward the Brazilian coast are at their calmest. Grab your schnorkel,

flippers and mask. The wonders of Fernando de Noronha are so many that you

have to see it to believe it.

Approximate distances' from :

Recife: 540 km (1 h40 by plane) Brasilia/Recife: 2,189 km

Rio de Janeiro/Recife: 2,353 km

Sao Paulo/Recife: 2,666 km

Natal: 360 km (1h10 by plane)

Brasilia/Natal: 2,478 km Rio de Janeiro/Natal : 2,642 km

Sao Paulo/Natal: 2,955 km

·Departu res to Fernando de Noronha are always from Recife or Natal.

'A trip not to be missed

Pedra Seca - This is a really spectacular dive with total visibility. Here, the

chances of your coming face to face with turtles and rays are very great.

They pass in and out of arches, canyons and small caves. The rocky bottom is covered wi th marine life. Rocks that stick up out of the sea mark the

spot. Depths are as much as 17 meters and the place is recommended for

underwater photography and filming. The quantities and varieties of fish and

marine animals are really impressive.

Other Attractions

Luais - This point is similar to Pedra Seca and is about 24 meters deep. Here there is plenty of life to be seen and large fish abound, one of the best

dives in Noronha.

Cabec;o do Sapata - This great sheer rock face reaches a depth of

42 meters. Here you will see many fish that are passing through.

Caverna da Sapata - A huge vault with many rays swimming around in it at

a depth of around 25 meters.

Dois Irmaos sheet rock - Near to the Dois Irmaos Rocks , at a depth of

25 meters, you will find a bottom of white sand and stones rich in sponges

and other marine life. Rays, jack fish , wrasses and long nosed sharks are

also common there .

Do Frade Island - An unforgettable meeting with marine turtles awaits you here. The maximum depth at this point is 20 meters and most of the diving is

done in the Mar de Fora (outer sea).

Page 50: Brazil a Sensational Country

Do Meio Island - At depths of 15 meters you will come

across grottos, large holes in the rock and the inhabitants of these waters such as sand sharks, known locally as "Iambarus" .

Ponta l do Norte - The diving is beautiful at this point. At the bottom you will see large fish and there is a large

submerged rock that looks like a skyscraper with its top

20 meters below the surface. Maximum depth here is 42 meters.

Sueste Bay - A place of calm waters where sea turtles can be seen. Nearby there is something of an ecological

rarity - one of the very few mangrove swamps found on an oceanic island .

Atalaia Beach - One of the best options for free diving.

At low tide a natural pool is isolated , only one meter deep. This pool is always full of mollusks, a variety of fish and young sharks.

The Corvette " Ipiranga" - This is considered to be

Brazil's most famous and best-preserved wreck . It went

down in 1983 after hitting submerged rocks near Cabe90

da Sapata. The wreck settled on the bottom in an upright position, evenly balanced on its keel at a depth of 62

meters. This considerable depth means that it only divers

licensed as Advanced and EANx (Nitrox) can visit it.

Wreck of the Eleani Sthatatos - This Greek ship is at

the bottom of the Santo Antonio Bay near the port, only 50 meters from the beach. The depth is 8 meters and it is possible to swim out to it.

Page 51: Brazil a Sensational Country

Become a fan of diving in:

Arraial do Cabo and Buzios, in the State of Rio de Janeiro The inner sea and the outer sea wash the shores of the Arraial do Cabo.

Boqueirao is the name of the strait that separates the island of Cabo Frio

from the continent. To dive into the wrecks located there, go to the outer sea

departing from Dos Anjos beach where you will find a pier, and from there you can hire boats for rides and diving activities . Buzios is really good for

free diving with a mask and a schnorkel. The warm waters (around 22°C)

are calm and transparent. Diving in these waters means you will get to see the rich marine life with large fish like the groupers, and giant rays as well as

French angelfish, anchovies, barracudas, green turtles and corals.

Bombinhas, in the State of Santa Catarina This is said to be one of the best diving points in Brazil. It is an island skirted

by the coast of long straight stretches of granite rocks. The irregular relief of

its 270 hectares has spots as high as 300 meters above sea level. In spite of this, the beach is easy to get to, and is of unequalled beauty. Diving is as

deep as 20 meters with visibility reaching up to 18 meters underwater.

Recife, in the State of Pernambuco

An ideal place for diving in wrecks. There are thought to be over 100

shipwrecks in the region. Add to this the warm crystal-clear waters with visibility of 30 meters or more. The marine life is also surprising. Turtles, rays,

moray eels, sharks and an infinity of fish and corals make it a real spree for

divers.

Salvador, in the State of Bahia

The presence of wrecks is also a strong attraction in Bahia. Todos os Santos

Bay is one of the places with the highest number of registered wrecks. The

water temperature is 26°C throughout the year and visibility can be up to 20 meters, excellent conditions for seeing the rich underwater fauna,

exuberant vegetation and the beautiful corals.

Abrolhos, in the State of Bahia At Abrolhos, the diversity is immense. Small colorful fish , Barracudas,

Groupers, eels, Moray eels, Pargo breams and sharks as well as dolphins, three species of marine turtles, crustaceans, mollusks and almost 20

different species of coral inhabit the depths of the seas around the islands.

But the greatest diving attraction takes place from July to November when the Humpback whales arrive in these waters. Visibility is at its best in the

months from December to March and can be up to 20 meters. Free dive and

autonomous live Aboard dives are all carried out. The most visited wreck is

the Italian cargo ship Rosalina, with a length of 93 meters, whose stern is quite

near to the surface.

Santos, in the State of Sao Paulo

The Laje de Santos State Marine Park is one of the main diving points in the State of Sao Paulo. Biodiversity in the region has been conserved through the

creation of this park where even fishing is no longer allowed.

Bonito, in the State of Mato Grosso Sui

This is a true paradise on Earth, with an incredible variety of small colorful fish

that can be seen easily in the diving and floating activities that are carried out in the region's crystal-clear freshwater lakes and rivers .

Page 52: Brazil a Sensational Country

Sport Angling The great Brazilian coast along with Brazil 's innumerable lakes and rivers have great moments of relaxation and fun awaiting you. Come and try them.

Become a fan of Sea Fishing off Vitoria, in the State of Espirito Santo In Vitoria , any day is a good day for fishing . Here, fish are abundant and there is an immense variety to choose from. But the really outstanding one is the

Blue Marlin. Vitoria has scored two world records with this category of fish :

the largest Blue Marlin ever caught weighing 636 kg , caught in 1992 and the largest White Marlin weighing 82.5 kg , and caught in 1979. The best time of

the year for Blue Marlin fishing is from October to March and for White Marlin, in the month of November.

Become a fan of Sport Angling in : Canavieiras, in the State of Bahia

From Porto Seguro to Belmonte, you will find a great variety of sport fish like the Wahoo, the Dourado, shoals of Tuna and the big ones like Sailfish, White

Marl in, Swordfish and the Blue Marlin, just what you need for the best possible ocean fishing program.

Alta Floresta, in the State of Mato Grosso

If you are after the most sought-after species of big catfish or scale-fish, this is the place for you. Fish weighing over 100 kg have been caught here. There

is a great diversity of fish species and you are advised to take with you three

classes of equipment: medium-light, medium-heavy and heavy, so that you can enjoy all the types of fishing that the region has to offer.

Mexiana Island, in the State of Para

In spite of the north of the island looking out towards the Atlantic Ocean, saltwater does not manage to penetrate as far as the island due to the

tremendous flow of the Amazon waters. Peacock Bass, Tambaquis and

Arapaimas are some of the fish that you will find at this island.

Page 53: Brazil a Sensational Country

Roosevelt River and Alto Rio Negro, in the State of Amazonas

In addition to fishing in the middle of this amazing scenery, you can take the opportunity to walk along forest trails, get to know the creeks (igarapes) in the

region and observe the bird life and animals. The fish most often caught in the

Roosevelt River are the Peacock Bass, Striped Pacus and White Pacus. What

is most common in the Alto Rio Negro is fishing for the really big Peacock Bass. Although there has been little sport fishing directed at them, other

species such as Aaruana, Matrinxa, Tambaqui , Dogfish, the Piraiba, Pirarara,

Jau, Dourada catfish and others can be caught with relative ease.

Araguaia River, in the States of Tocantins and Goias Imagine a place where emotions follow one another in quick succession. That's

the Araguaia River. Fish, beaches, birds and animals are all part of the trip.

The various settings offer many alternatives for all kinds of fishing techniques.

Page 54: Brazil a Sensational Country

Surfing Brazil is a surfer's paradise. The big waves are an invitation to feel the

pleasure of being on top of your surfboard .

Become a fan of the lively seas of Florianopolis, in the State of Santa Catarina

Beaches, surf, beautiful people, Florian6polis has all this and much more. There are over 50 beaches to welcome people of all types and suit all tastes.

It is also host to World Surf Championship events. Favorite spots for surfers

include the Mole and Joaquina beaches. Other water sports are more popular

at Jurere beach. At certain times of the year the waters off the Brava beach receive illustrious visitors in the form of whales and dolphins.

Become a fan of the great waves of Fernando de Noronha. in the State of Pemambuco Laje da Cacimba, Boldr6, Ruro and Abras all have waves of up to five meters

high which make surfers from all over the world very happy. The best waves

usually occur from November to April when some rounds of the National Surf Championship are held. The greenish blue hue of the waters and their

transparency are a show in themselves in this paradisiacal spot.

Become a fan of the constant winds at Trairi. in the State of Ceara The constancy of the winds that sweep the coast of Ceara is what guarantees

the enjoyment of surfing and water sports like windsurfing , on the beaches of Flexeiras and Mundau, in the municipality of Trairi, even though the sea itself is

relatively calm.

Become a fan of the powerful waves at Jericoacoara, in the State of Ceara For those who like sea bathing, the recommended beach is Malhada, in the

municipality of Jericoacoara, and it is very popular for surfing or windsurfing .

In addition to these sports, the beach is also renowned for the presence of nudists and people going topless.

Page 55: Brazil a Sensational Country

Sailing The good winds and the geography of the coastline encourage the enjoyment

of this sport in Brazil. It is worth checking out.

Become a fan of the good winds of Ilhabela. in the State of Sao Paulo The geography of the island blocks the big waves coming in from the open sea

and the Sao Sebastiao channel funnels the winds in the area. This means that

IIhabela brings together all the best conditions in Brazil for sailing activities.

Brazil hopes that the same good winds will bring you here too .

Page 56: Brazil a Sensational Country

Golf Good infrastructure and beautiful scenery are a normal part of the golf circuit

in Brazil. The number of participants in this sport has been increasing in

Brazil and we await your arrival with open golf courses.

Become a fan of new tendencies in Golf at Comandatuba Island. in the State of Bahia Between the sea and the century-old coconut groves, sand dunes, lovely lakes and natural vegetation , is the 18-hole golf course, par 72. This course is in line

with the newest tendencies in the sport. It has undulations and split-levels that

combined with the ocean breezes, can actually vary four times a day. The sand

banks are strategically located to heighten the challenges for both professional players and amateurs.

Become a fan of the lovely course at Trancoso. in the State of Bahia Constructed using modern techniques and totally respecting the region's natural characteristics, the Trancoso course is one of the prettiest in all of Latin

America, and one of the best areas for playing golf in the country. It has 18

holes, a 350-yard driveway, putting greens, chipping and pitching greens, an

ample and a very comfortable clubhouse, highly capable golf professionals on hand to accompany you as well as equipment available for classes and

training .

Become a fan of the Saufpe Coast links, in the State of Bahia The lovely view of the beach and the lakes are all part of the package for those

playing on the Sauipe Coast links. Here the course has been constructed on

top of sand dunes and has an undulating relief typical of the "Links" type of course. These elements mean that the lay of the land has dictated the design

of the course and the layout of the 18 holes.

Become a fan of the topography of the course at Buzios. in the State of Rio de Janeiro The project of architects Pete and Perry Dye has incorporated and valued the

natural geographical features, surrounding Nature and the topography of the

terrain. The result is one of the best 18-hole golf courses in Latin America .

Become a fan of the 6,420 yards of the course at Angra dos Reis. in the State of Rio de Janeiro 18 holes, par 72 distributed over 6,420 yards. The project of architects Dave

Thomas and Peter Allis poses a real challenge to players: five of the holes are

about 500 yards apart and are par 5. Take up the challenge.

Become a fan of the privileged locations of the courses at Foz do Iguac;u. in the State of Parana The golf course at Foz do Igua~u is an integral part of a circuit that unites golf sportsmen and women all over Brazil. In a privileged location, the course has

18 holes.

GOlf, Saulpe Coast, Bahia

Page 57: Brazil a Sensational Country

Horseback trekking Trips through the beautiful scenery, like the beaches, high plateaus

and Pantanal wetlands are all the better when made on horseback.

Horseback trekking is a special way of getting to know Brazil's fauna ,

flora and geographical formations. The activity is always undertaken using well-trained horses, which ensures the safety of even the most

inexperienced riders . Usually such trips are offered through forests

and pasturelands on farms and ranches and pass over streams or

even among the cattle . In all these trips there is always the possibility of coming across wild animals along the way.

Become a fan of horseback trekking at Lages in the mountains of the State of Santa Catarina Here you will be able to go horseback trekking on farms. The most

sought after trip is the one at Coxilha Rica , in the southern region of Lages which has smoothly undulating country, isolated patches of

Araucaria Pine woods and rivers of clean water. During the trip you may

get to see farms over 200 years old with their thick walls of stakes and puddled clay, and open grasslands, and you can relive a little history of

the muleteers and the mule trains that crossed these lands and follow

the same trail that Anita and Giuseppe Garibaldi took long ago.

Become a fan of the history of Paraty in the State of Rio de Janeiro Paraty exhales History. The road you will go along on foot or on

horseback was paved in the 18'h century. At that time it was used

to transport gold that was coming from the mines of Minas Gerais , which were shipped to Portugal. Nowadays it serves for your

enjoyment. Along 3 krn of the way you will corne across the ruins

of the Casa dos Quintos - which was where taxes were levied in 1703. You will also see the Atlantic Forest vegetation , waterfalls,

a panoramic view of the city of Paraty and IIha Grande bay and a

typical rural farm dwelling.

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Rafting, Canoeing and Brazil's vertical sports

Become a fan of thrills in Brazil Brazilian geography offers especially favorable conditions for enjoying

adventure sports . Rappel, canoeing and rafting take place in various

locations in Brazil. Long lives the thrill of getting to know Brazil.

Outstanding examples: Santo Amaro da Imperatriz and Timbo, in the State of Santa Catarina

Thermal waters with temperatures of 40' C and various adventure sports like

rafting , Paraijliding, vertical techniques and trekking make Santo Amaro da Imperatriz an obligatory destination for adventure tourism. Radical sports

are also a strongpoint of Santo Amaro da Imperatriz. Free fiight, motocross

and canoeing down the rapids are much associated with the place where the national championships for these sports are held. The most popular option

at nmb6 is rafting . Whoever visits the municipality should take the chance

of getting to know the Itajai Valley with its many falls and well-preserved

woodlands. The scenery is perfect for this sport.

Sao Luiz do Paraitinga and Brotas, in the State of Sao Paulo

Many waterfalls, sudden drops and crystal-clear streams are all you need to go along the trails of adventure tourism in the region, and go rafting . Sao

Luiz do Paraitinga and Brotas are surefire places for interaction with the

environment and good fun .

Itacare and Chapada Diamantina, in the State of Bahia 28 km from the town center, in the district of Taboquinhas, the Contas River

runs through a beautiful canyon with excellent rapids. As it fiows between

the sheer rocks, the River Contas, which rises in the Chapada Diamantina

and fiows out into the Atlantic Ocean at Itacare, transforms itself into an ideal spot for you to do some rafting. At the entrance to Taboquinhas, the

Nore Falls with a height of 18 meters, half of which is a free drop, is an

open invitation to carry out Rappel or cascading activities.

Chapada dos Veadeiros , in the State of Goias iTIij ~ Waterfalls, rapids and canyons, exuberant vegetation, . ,.'

and curious rock formations sculpted by time, all make the Chapada dos

Veadeiros a real paradise for walking trails, rappel and other radical sports.

When you visit Chapada dos Veadeiros be sure to go to the Saito do Rio Preto,

Canyons I, II and Cariocas, and the Agua Fria waterfall, the Macacos Valley with its own canyons and many other excursions that should not be missed.

Pirenopolis, in the State of Goias

Vigorous vegetation , waterfalls , and amazing scenery make the city of Piren6polis an ideal place for adventure sports like mountain biking, rappel ,

Tyrolese, canoeing, tree-topping , among others.

Page 59: Brazil a Sensational Country

Free Flight Become a fan of the freedom of flying in Brazil Free flight as a sport has evolved considerably since the first adventurers began their flights in the skies of Sao Conrado, in the State of Rio de Janeiro,

in 1974. Brazil 's tropical climate and highly varied relief propitiate many

fantastic locations for enjoying free flights .

Rio de Janeiro, in the State of Rio de Janeiro

The 'wonderful city' of Rio is also renowned as a perfect place for hang-gliding.

During the flight you can observe the great Gavea Rock, the Dois Irmaos

Hill and the famous Corcovado where you will have a panoramic view of the

Tijuca National Forest, the largest urban forest in the world . Landings are at

the Pepino beach where you can relax and sip refreshing coconut water to the sound of the waves beating on the shore.

Sobral, in the State of Ceara

If you would like to fly and get a view from above of one of Brazil's most beautiful landscapes, go to Sobral , which is the site of two of the most

important national free flight events.

Some tips for you to make the most of our sports:

• Always use adequate equipment, your safety depends on it.

• Seek the services of recommended, licensed, qualified and certified

service providers.

• Use sun block and suitable clothing for the sport concerned and

remember to always keep yourself well hydrated .

• Respect your own physical and technical limitations and the limitations

imposed by Nature.

Page 60: Brazil a Sensational Country
Page 61: Brazil a Sensational Country

YEN[1 [ A

.. , -,-

--~

u V A

t" I

Brazil is divided into five regions:

North, Northeast, Center-west,

Southeast and South. Now imagine

that each of these regions has its

own special way of being. Each part

of Brazil is like a different country

within its own culture, customs,

cuisine and forms of speech.

We are many people all in one.

Here you can come across signs

not only of the History of ancient

civilizations, but of the more recent

History of our country and of the

modernity of our great metropolitan

areas. You will become an

enthusiast of our folk celebrations

like Carnival - an infectious sea

of colors and happiness that

affects everyone around it. You

can participate in the biggest

firework display on the planet at

the New Year 's Eve celebrations

on the Copacabana beach in Rio

de Janeiro. And just when you

think you have seen everything

there is to see in this country you

will succumb to the charm of the

modern lines of the architecture of

the capital of Brazil , Brasilia - an

imposing city encrusted in the very

heart of Brazil.

Page 62: Brazil a Sensational Country

Carnival. in the State of Rio de Janeiro It can be said without fear of contradiction that Carnival is an explosion of Brazilian happiness. Its colors and mixtures, and its diversity are the maximum expression of the Brazilians' way of being. Carnival is

one of the biggest and most popular festivals in the country and one of the biggest folk celebrations in

the world. It brings together emotions, creativity, colors , sounds, plasticity and much joy. In the months of February and March, this happiness takes over the streets, clubs and hotels from the north, to the south

of Brazil.

Page 63: Brazil a Sensational Country

In Rio de Janeiro, the rhythm of the Carnival unfolds to the sound of the sambas,

the drums and the people parading through the "Samb6dromo", the place where

the "Samba School" parades take place on the Marques de Sapucai Avenue.

Every year thousands of tourists from all over the world watch and take part in

this festival whether it be as spectators in the stands of the Samb6dromo, or

actually parading down the Marques da Sapucai Avenue. Rio de Janeiro has

only one voice, the sound of the drums and the chants of the Samba troupes or

"schools". The heart beats faster, it is impossible not to enter into the spirit of the

fancy dresses, the sambas, and all the creativity of the Brazilian people coming

together to make Carnival a unique and unforgettable celebration.

Appr .mate d.stances from

Brasilia : 1,167 km

Sao Paulo: 446 km

Not to be missed Do not even think about spending Carnival time in Rio de Janeiro without going

to watch the parade of the Samba groups. The 14 'schools' or associations

that make up the so-called Special Group always parade down the Marques

de Sapucai Avenue on the two nights: Sunday and Monday. This is something

not to be missed.

Page 64: Brazil a Sensational Country

New Year's Eve in the State of Rio de Janeiro The New Year is also made very welcome in Brazil. On New Year's Eve

the Copacabana beach is host to millions of people that come to watch the

greatest firework display on Earth . Along a 4 km stretch an unforgettable

show takes place in the sky and on the fayades of the hotels in the form of

firework cascades and from other points in the sea .

Shows on well-constructed stages set up on the beach complete the

celebration , and you can take part in the party in great style . The hotel network is fully prepared to welcome you and offer comfort and many party

options as well as varied menus prepared by renowned chefs .

Approximate distances from Brasilia: 1,167 km

Sao Paulo: 446 km

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Brasilia. in the Federal District

If Brazil is the country of the future , this tendency is clearly marked in the appearance of its capital city, Brasilia . Lucio Costa's city-planning project, the

architecture of Oscar Niemeyer and the landscaping done by Roberto Burle

Marx are living proof that in this country, culture and art are taken seriously. So seriously in fact that Brasilia is the only city in the world constructed in the

20'h century to have been declared a World Cultural Heritage by UNESCO.

ppr ,ximat, distances from

Rio de Janeiro: 1,167 km

Sao Paulo: 1,011 km

Page 66: Brazil a Sensational Country

Brasilia . 1n the Federal DIstrict

You must visit

The Metropolitan Cathedral, Brasilia Here you will get to know one of Brasilia's most represented

buildings - a mixture of daring architecture and art. There

is no main fa<;ade to the cathedral and access is through a

subterranean passage. It is a circular structure supported by 16 curved pillars of finished concrete alternating with stained

glass panels done by Marianne Peretti.

Other Attractions

JK Memorial - Juscelino Kubitschek was the president who

brought Brasilia to life. His mortal remains are preserved in this

mausoleum. Here you will find his personal library, a permanent exhibition of images, plus, the president's personal belongings.

Tres Poderes (Three Branches) Square - This Square is home to the main buildings of the Executive Branch - Planalto

Palace -, the Legislative Branch - National Congress Building,

and the Justice Branch - Federal Supreme Court - as well as other monuments. Visit each one of these buildings and

monuments and participate a little in the History of Brazil and the

trajectory of Brasilia itself.

Pantheon of Patriots - This is a monument to the ex-president

Tancredo Neves and other patriotic heroes. Here you can see the works of outstanding Brazilian masters of the plastic arts like

Marianne Peretti , Joao Camara and Athos Bulcao.

The Ministries Esplanade - This is a set of 17 buildings where

the Ministries of the Executive Branch function . They are all

similar buildings, separated by lawny areas.

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Serra da Capivara. State of Piau! If you would like to learn a bit about the origins of man in the Americas then this trip is a must for you. The Serra da Capivara National Park is an

archeological treasure house. Registered as a World Cultural Heritage by UNESCO, and by the Brazilian IPHAN, the Capivara range has thousands

of preserved pre-historic rock paintings and inscriptions over 12 thousand

years old , on its rock faces. There are more than 700 archeological sites hidden among the canyons, isolated patches of forest and savannahs that

make up the extraordinarily beautiful landscapes of this part of the interior

of the Brazilian Northeast.

Approximate distances from : Teresina/ Serra da Capivara National Park: 588 km

BrasilialTeresina: 1,782 km

Petrol ina: 413 km Rio de Janeiro/Petrolina: 1,949 km

Sao Raimundo Nonato: 55 km

Sao Paulo/Sao Raimundo Nonato: 2,619 km

You must visit

Toca do Boqueirao da Pedra Furada See inscriptions dating from various pre-historic periods on the 100 meter-wide rock face . The walkways and illumination are part of the

infrastructure that has been built to welcome you and facilitate your

visit.

Other Attractions

Baixao das Andorinhas - Here you can watch a lovely Nature show: the

fiights of swallows that appear just before sunset.

Desfiladeiro da Capivara - This is a place that was used as a passage

by local populations in former eras. You will feel as if you were taking a trip

back to the pre-historic times.

Caldeirao do Rodrigues and Canoas - If you are physically fit and enjoy cl imbing then get ready for a great adventure. Caldeirao do Rodrigues is a

natural reservoir where local animals come to quench their thirst. Here too

you will find archeological sites with rock paintings.

Toea de Cima do Pilao - Come

and see this small cave

illuminated by the penetrating sunlight. Here fossilized

remains have been found of

the ancient megafauna such as the sabre-toothed tiger and the

Giant Armadillo.

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Heritage Cities Become a fan of Brazil 's History on display in the Historical Center of

Salvador in the State of Bahia

Registered as a World Cultural Heritage by UNESCO, Salvador's Historical Center will introduce you to the beginning of Brazil's

History. There are thousands of large residences dating back

to the 16" , 17" and 18'h centuries and distributed in three

main areas: around the Municipal square and Largo de Sao Francisco, at Pelourinho and Largo do Carmo, and at the Largo

de Santo Antonio . In the churches and ancient mansions you wil l journey back through time, be enchanted by the features of the

architecture and delighted by the cultural programs that are on offer there .

Become a fan of the architectu ral

homogeneity of the Historical Center

of Sao Luis in the State of Maranhao Visit Sao Luis' magnificently architectural , homogeneous

group of buildings of the Latin American Colonial period dating back from the 18'h and 19'h centuries. There are over

3,500 buildings of great historical and artistic value duly preserved under the aegis with the title of World Cultural

Heritage bestowed by UNESCO. Here you will be able to see

how the inhabitants lived during Brazil's colonial period .

Page 69: Brazil a Sensational Country

Become a fan of the Religious Art of

Ouro Preto, in the State of Minas Gerais To find out a little about Religious Art of the Brazilian Baroque period, the place

to go is Ouro Preto. This former capital of the Province of Minas Gerais has

been registered as a World Cultural Heritage by UNESCO, and is home to one of Brazil's richest and most extensive architectonic manifestations. Regional

handicrafts and cuisine are also big attractions.

Become a fan of the Art of the sculptor

Aleijadinho at the Bom Jesus de Matosinhos

Sanctuary in Congonhas, in the State of Minas Gerais You wil l fall in love with the scenery and views in Congonhas do Campo.

The city, surrounded by mountain, houses the architectural and artistic

manifestations of the Bom Jesus de Matosinhos de Congonhas Sanctuary, registered by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage. Congonhas do Campo

used to be an important mining center in Brazil's colonial past. It was the

region 's gold that brought the sculptor Aleijadinho here and the city displays many concrete examples of his art.

Become a fan of the History of Diamantina,

in the State of Minas Gerais Diamonds were what gave this city its name, fame and glory. Nowadays,

Diamantina is a traditional destination for tourists seeking historical interest in beautiful settings. The city is a collection of architectural manifestations in the

form of mansions, churches and monuments that date back to its golden age

of diamond mining. All of this has led to its being registered as a World Cultural Heritage by UNESCO, and it is a destination that you should not fail to visit.

Page 70: Brazil a Sensational Country

sao Miguel das MissOes. Rio Grande do Sui

Become a fan of the ruins of Sao Miguel das Missoes,

in the State of Rio Grande do Sui

The Tourism Itinerary "Missions" will tell you the story of the colonizing venture

undertaken by the Jesuit Order through catechizing the Guarani Indians. The Sao Miguel ruins are a World Cultural Heritage.

Become a fan of Colonial Baroque

Architecture in the city of Goias in the State of Goias

Imagine entering a city that was founded in 1725 and still has 90% of its original colonial-baroque architecture intact. UNESCO has registered this

magnificent display of nineteenth century Brazil as a World Cultural Heritage.

Become a fan of the values, traditions and cultural manifestations

of Pirenopolis, in the State of Goias

The affection of local inhabitants for their traditions and cultural expressions has meant that the municipality has almost entirely preserved its original

appearance. The city was a lively little town up to the end of the 19'" century. With the decadence of mining activities it entered in a phase of quietude and

isolation that has left it almost untouched by the transformations of the 20'" century.

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Become a fan of the steep streets ~ ~ of Olinda, in the State of Pernambuco .,,'

The History of Olinda can be told in the rhythm of the ups and downs of its streets, full of art ateliers on either side. Registered by UNESCO as a World

Cultural Heritage , the preserved original layout of its streets and its mansions

form an important architectural complex and set the scene for one of the liveliest and most attractive Carnivals in the whole of Brazil.

Become a fan of the signs of 17th century culture in

Belem, in the State of Para Getting to know Beh3m is like going back in time. The city's colonial

architecture in many ways reflects the appearance of the buildings of 18~

century Lisbon in Portugal , which served as the inspiration for the building projects of the bigger residences and mansions of that time with their

fa9ades replete with decorative tiles . French architecture can also be seen in buildings that date back to the end of the 19th century and the beginning

of the 20th century. But if you think that your journey in time ends there, just

go around a little more and you will find other historic buildings tucked away, dating back to the 17th century.

Historical Cities Become a fan of the works of Baroque painters and sculptors in Mariana,

in the State of Minas Gerais

As you take the route of the former Estrada Real (Royal Road) you can make a stop at Mariana. Here you will find one of the most beautiful collections of Baroque

architecture in all of Minas Gerais State. Among the outstanding works to be seen

are those of sculptor Antonio Francisco Lisboa, better known as Aleijadinho.

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Become a fan of the routes of the Estrada Real (Royal Road) Your journey into Brazil's past should begin along these routes. The Estrada

Real is 1,400 km long and it passes through 177 towns and districts, of which

162 are located in the State of Minas Gerais. The Road got its name because it was the route used by the colonizers from the moment gold was discovered

in Minas Gerais up to the moment when the process of extracting the precious

metal entered a phase of decadence. Three routes can be considered to be

part of the Estrada Real : the Caminho Velho (old route) which started from Paraty and went on to Ouro Preto; the Caminho Novo (new route), from Rio

de Janeiro, also going to Ouro Preto; and the Bahia route , linking the city of

Salvador to Minas Gerais.

Become a fan of the History of the Gold Era in Sao Joao Del Rei, in the

State of Minas Gerais This town is an obligatory stop for anyone wishing to know a little more about

the history of the gold boom in Minas Gerais. It is one of the most beautiful

cities in the region . Founded in the 17'" century, it has preserved its original

layout and collection of colonial houses up to the present day.

Become a fan of

the collection of

historical buildings

in Sabara, in the

State of Minas Gerais

You could make this one of your stopping

off points along the

Estrada Real (Royal

Road). In all parts of the town you ca n see

traces of the three

phases of Minas Gerais' Baroque

period, with many of the houses' dating

back to the 181h

century.

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Become a fan of the scenes of historical events in

Araxa, in the State of Minas Gerais

Enchanting settings made up of magnificent ancient mansions and residences can be found in Araxa , renowned for its legends and sites like the Hanging

Tree where it is said that on windy nights one can hear the groans of the

Negroes that were hung there, or the myth of Dona Beija, a woman who held

an outstanding political and social position, totally unusual for women in the early decades of the 19~ century. Certain mystic and religious spots add to

the fascination that this town inspires. Araxa is integrated into Minas Gerais' so called Watering Places (Spas) Circuit and is recognized for the various

therapeutic properties of its waters and a pleasant climate all year long.

sao Francisco de Assis Church, Pampulha

Become a fan of art in the Pampulha district of Belo Horizonte,

in the State of Minas Gerais

The architectural complex in the Pampulha district has been registered as a heritage preserved by the Brazilian Artistic and Historical Heritage Institute

-IPHAN. Here you will find the works of some of Brazil's most important figures

in the fields of architecture, urbanism, plastic arts and landscaping. You will appreciate the lines of Oscar Niemeyer's architecture, the alfresco paintings and

decorative tiles of Candido Portinari, the sculptures of Ceschiatti , Zamoiski and

Jose Pedrosa, the mosaic panel done by Paulo Werneck and the landscaping of

Roberto Burle Marx.

Become a fan of cultural effervescence in Tiradentes, in the State

of Minas Gerais Tiradentes is living

out a phase of cultural

effervescence to the full. Its historical mansions

are the setting for film

festivals and gastronomy events and there are

countless ateliers to lend

an especially colorful air to your trip .

Page 74: Brazil a Sensational Country

Become a fan of the architectural and landscaping complex

of Rio de Janeiro City, in the State of Rio de Janeiro

The city was Brazil's capital during the Empire period and up until 1960, and even today its architectural and landscaping features are still very beautiful.

You will be able to observe that it has been a "wonderful city" for a very long

time indeed. For that, all you need to do is visit sumptuous and imposing buildings like the Municipal Theatre , the Pavo Imperial (Imperial Palace) and

the National library among so many others.

Become a fan of the streets of Paraty, in the State of Rio de Janeiro

Paraty has preserved one of the most architecturally harmonious sets of

bu ildings in Brazil. To many people, it is the most charming and cozy little town in the country. The cultural program in this Historical Heritage City extends

throughout the year. Walking through the streets that lead to the former prison,

the fort, museums, handicraft centers, and churches, is like taking a walk in the past. The cuisine is also one of the local attractions. You can dine in good

restaurants , try the locally distilled "cachavas" from the sugar mills and listen to

good music in the city's many bars.

Become a fan of the climate at Petropolis, in the State of Rio de Janeiro

It was to breathe the good air of Petropolis that Dom Pedro, at that time

Emperor of Colonial Brazil , chose the town as the site of his summer residence. The pleasant, healthy climate of the 'Imperial Town' as it came

to be known, is an invitation to stroll around its tree-lined streets among the

mansions built at the time of the Empire.

Page 75: Brazil a Sensational Country

Become a fan of the rich

cultural heritage of Penedo, in

the State of Alagoas If you wish to see the prettiest

and most ancient of Brazil 's

historical towns you need to visit

the Northeast region . Registered for preservation by the Brazilian

Historical Heritage organization ,

its col lection of historical artifacts is really impressive and includes 17'h and 18'h century churches ,

convents and mansions that are all part of this chance to visit

Brazil's colonial past.

Become a fan of the beauties

of Alcantara, in the State of

Maranhao Alcantara was once one of the

most prosperous centers in the

Northeast region during the colonial and imperial periods

of Brazil's history based on an

economy sustained by its sugar mills and plantations. Today it

is a monument town registered

for preservation by the Brazilian Historical Heritage organization

and embraces over 300 historic

buildings distributed along ten streets and eight cross-streets.

Walking in these streets is a way

of re-living the times of wealth and glory of Colonial Brazil.

Folk Festivals

Carnival The Brazilian people's great explosion of joy takes place in the months

of February and March. Time your trip so as to make the most of each

day of this celebration .

Become a fan of the joyous Carnival in Salvador,

in the State of Bahia It is said that it is impossible to stand still if you are behind a truck­

mounted mobile stage with a band playing on it (trio eletrico). To check

that out join in with the two million Carnival celebrators that dance, jump,

and have fun along the 25 kilometers of streets and avenues during Salvador's Carnival celebrations. The "trio eletrico" is a Brazilian invention,

big trucks with huge amplifiers for the music, real mobile stages that entice the multitude along behind them in a festive and happy spirit.

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Become a fan of the giant Carnival dolls of Olinda,

in the State of Pernambuco

In Olinda there is something going on all through the year but the real celebration begins a week before the official date of the Carnival. To liven things

up for everyone, the giant dolls parade up and down the steep hills getting

everyone in the mood. The Olinda Carnival is renowned as the one of the most attractive and democratic Carnivals in the world . All you have to do is go out in

to the streets and let yourself go to the rhythm of the "Frevo" which is played by

small local brass dance bands and by the big carnival troupes.

Become a fan of the colorful Carnival of Recife,

in the State of Pernambuco The biggest Carnival troupe in the world opens the celebrations in Recife. It is

called the Galo do Madrugada, and marks the official opening on Ze Pereira

Saturday, the first day of Carnival. You are going to jump-up to the sound of the "Frevo", a local kind of rhythmic dance music played by small bands with

wind instruments and you can show off your imagination in your fancy dress

and have a great time. You will be enchanted by the variety of rhythms: frevo, maracatu, bois , caboclinhos, and by the small troupes that form spontaneously,

as well as the big samba associations.

Become a fan of the Red and the Blue at Parintins,

in the State of Amazonas Choose the color you are going to support In Parintins the passion for the two

symbolic oxen (bois), Boi Garantido and Boi Caprichoso takes over the city and explodes in a tremendous celebration, the Parintins Folklore Festival. It

takes place every year on the 28th , 29th and 30th June. A big arena is set up and

the huge Bois present themselves before an audience of over 40 thousand spectators each night, in a grandiose spectacle of dancing, music and special

effects.

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Become a fan of the diversity of Caruaru Market in the State of Pernambuco

This is a great program for those that love novelties and delving into the culture

of the ordinary people. Caruaru Market is the biggest open market in the world . Here you can find everything. You will be fascinated by the great variety of

products on offer, the original cuisine, regional music, strolling guitar players

and other displays of local cul ture like the penny-whistle bands, made up of

percussion instruments and simple wind instruments that are among the most ancient and characteristic forms of Brazilian folk music manifestations.

Become a fan of the Bumba-meu-Boi tradition in the State of Maranhao

You really must get to know one of Brazil's most traditional folk celebrations

- the Bumba-meu-Boi. It is a mixture of theater, dancing, music and circus. It

takes place in the month of June when hundreds of groups come together in Sao Luis, the capital of Maranhao, to celebrate this festival.

Become a fan of the Cirio de Nazare celebrations in the State of Para Most Brazilians are Catholics. If you would like to witness a demonstration of

that faith then take part in the Cirio de Nazare celebration . Over two million

people come together in the streets of Belem, the capital of Para, forming a procession that wends its way around the city to the Nazare Basilica.

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Peoples Become a fan of the Indigenous lands in Sao Gabriel da Cachoeira

in the State of Amazonas Imagine a region surrounded by Amazon forest with river beaches, waterfalls

and rapids. Visiting Sao Gabriel da Cachoeira means visiting a paradise in the middle of the forest. This is the main entry point for access to the Pico

da Neblina, the highest point in Brazil , and the region is mainly composed of

indigenous areas that can only be visited with the express permission of the

Alto Rio Negro Federation of Indigenous Organizations.

Become a fan of the rituats performed in the Xingu tndigenous Park

in the State of Mato Grosso Within the Xingu Indigenous Park you wi ll witness the preservation of the

region's Nature and its culture. One of the largest and most famous reserves of its kind anywhere in the world , the Park guarantees the survival of a population

of 5 thousand Indians divided into 16 ethnic groups and 204 communities .

According to UNESCO, the Xingu Park corresponds to the richest linguistic

mosaic in the Americas. Here, in the months of July up to September, the famous ritual paying homage to the dead - the Kuarup - takes place. To get

there you should go to the city of Feliz Natal first. Come and treat yourself to a

very special cultural experience.

, Mato Grosso

Tourist Attractions/Events Become a fan of artistic expression in the Sao Paulo Biennial

Art Exhibition in the State of Sao Pauto The Sao Paulo Biennial Art Exhibition is something not to be missed. It is a

stimulating experience in the field of plastic art manifestations and other forms of artistic expression. The event is one of the most important on the world

circuit of plastic arts and takes place on even-numbered years .

Become a fan of the tnternational Bienniat Book Fair in the State of Sao Paulo

Taking part in the world's third largest book fair is like reading your first book.

One always leads to another. The International Biennial Book Fair allies the sales of books to a series of cultural programs. This exhibition has already hit

the mark of 1.3 million books on show, a great success for both the public and

the exhibitors. To come and then come again, just take the first step.

Tips for an unforgettable trip :

• Before starting your trip, find out a little about the local history and the

dates of festivals and cultural events.

• Respect local habits, customs and practices. • Follow the recommendations offered when visiting museums, historical

sites and other cultural spaces. • Respect and preserve resources and natural , historical and cultural

heritages and inform your relatives and friends about them.

• Keep in contact with the guides in the institutions being visited .

• Try the flavors of the local cuisine. • Interact with local communities and become more intimate with their cultures.

Page 79: Brazil a Sensational Country

Useful Information

Language Portuguese is the national language but the vocabulary, accent and

intonation differ considerably from the language as it is spoken in Portugal

and other former Portuguese colonies. In hotels and tourism centers, Spanish

and English are the languages most commonly used to meet the needs of foreign visitors.

Visas

Tourists coming in from Mercosur countries do not need to show a passport,

merely a national identity card . For tourists of other nationalities a passport is obligatory and it should have an ongoing validity of at least six months. For

further information access www.mre.gov.brorwww.braziltour.com

Vottages

You are recommended to check the voltage of the local electricity supply in each place you visit.

Car Rentat

Car hire with or without a driver is available at most of the country's

airports . It is advisable to make a prior booking. Do not forget to take your International Driver's license. Check out the traffic regulations for the places

you intend to visit.

Tips

Most bars and restaurants include a 10% service charge in the bill. It is usual to leave a little extra when the service has been really satisfactory. When

no service charge has been included in the bill then it is usual to leave 10 to

15% of the value of the bill as a tip.

Currency and Exchange

The Brazilian Currency unit is the Real (symbol R$). Dollars, Euros, and

travelers ' checks can easily be changed in hotels, banks and currency

exchange bureaus. Most establishments accept international credit cards.

Taxis

There are radio-taxi serv ices that can be cal led by phone and the cars may be air-conditioned. However, you are advised to request certified taxi

companies at the airports and taxi ranks near the hotels. Taxi drivers do not

expect to be tipped . It is usual to round off the amount to be paid as a small

gratification when the service has been good.

Communications

To make international calls dial : 00 + operator service code' + country code +

area code (if there is one) + telephone number. For reverse charge ca lls dial

0800.7032111 .

Time Zones

Brazil covers an area with 4 different time zones. Brasilia (capital) time is the

official time and it is 3 hours behind Greenwich Mean Time. In the summer

time the clocks are put forward one hour in most Brazilian States.

Climate and Temperature

The climate is predominantly tropical with some reg ional variations. Mean

annual temperatures are around 28' C in the North, and 20' C in the South.

To find out more about Brazil , access: www.braziltour.com or speak to your travel agent .

• Inquire at the reception desk for in formation on in ternational operator codes.

Page 80: Brazil a Sensational Country

Sensational!

www.braziltour.com