The Federative Republic Of Brazil is the largest country in South America, occupying almost half its area. It dominates the east half of the South American landmass. The capital city is Brasilia and unlike most South American country’s, the official language is Portuguese.
The climate is mainly tropical but, since the area is so huge, there are variations such as subtropical or temperate. The landscape varies between equatorial forests in the north, semi-arid deserts in the northeast and temperate forests in the south. In the north temperatures average around 25 degrees C, in the south around 18 degrees C. Expect sharp fluctuations between day and night.
Most of Brazil only has a two-season weather system: rainy season and dry season. The forests of Brazil are so vast that it is doubtful whether all animal species there have been discovered. New species are still being discovered there even now. Known species include many types of monkeys, pumas, anteaters, tapirs, sloths and armadillos. The unspoilt wilderness can be divided into three major areas:
The Amazonian National Park, which occupies 40% of the country's landmass and includes the Amazon River. River tours are easily available, together with other kinds such as hiking or birdwatching.
The Iguassu Falls, a cluster of waterfalls situated at the boundary of Brazil and Argentina. A walkway allows tourists to walk to close viewing distance and helicopter tours allow for a good overhead view.
The Pantanal Wildlife Reserve is considered one of the best in the world. It displays very little sign of human construction and is best known for fishing and birdwatching opportunities.
The city of Sao Paulo, although not the capital, is the biggest in Brazil and also the main tourist hotspot. It is concentrated with all the nation's favorite activities such as music, dancing, multinational cuisine or football. The calendar is jam-packed with events such as the Gay Pride Parade, International Film Festival or Sao Paulo Fashion Week.
Looking for self catering holiday accommodation in Brazil? then below is a selection of villas in Brazil and apartments in Brazil that can be rented direct from their owners. You can either click on each listing for further details or you can use our search engine on the left if you are looking for something in particular.
