SOUTH AMERICA
Discover the Hidden Quirks of Brazil
Brazil
About
Brazil is the largest country in South America and borders nine countries. Brazil is home to most of the Amazon Rainforest which contain around 10% of all known species on Earth. This country is known for its world-famous carnivals that puts the whole of Brazil into party-mode as people celebrate and have fun. These carnivals give the nation a vibrant and buzzing atmosphere.
Rio de Janeiro is located on the south-east coast of Brazil. Its natural beauty and landscapes make this city a sight to behold for any tourist. One of the stunning sights to see while in Rio is the iconic Christ the Redeemer. This 98-foot-tall soapstone statue is one of the 7 Wonders of the World. Take a train or hike to the base of the statue and look up in awe at the sheer size and detail of it. Another must-do in Rio is to spend a day on the golden beaches of the city. The most famous of these beaches is Copacabana. Here you can party in the sun with some Brazilian beats or relax by the sea while working on your tan and enjoying the beautiful sights surrounding the entire area.
Sao Paulo is a city full of art and culture. Many streets throughout Sao Paulo are filled with colourful, mesmerising street art that would make any person want to stop and admire the remarkable illustrations. Artists will often try to display their work in difficult to get to locations as they want to stand out from the rest. Sao Paulo is also known for its diversity in architecture, as many of its buildings are unique and different. A place that emphasises the significance of art in Sao Paulo is Museu de Arte (Museum of Art). This museum is in the heart of Sao Paulo, and a must-do for any art lover. A great place to take in the city and to chill is Ibirapuera Park. This park is a big hit for tourists as it has beautiful, picturesque scenes that will make you enjoy every step you take while there. It is also unique as it has a road running through a section of the park.
Salvador is a lively city that is the perfect place to try traditional Brazilian street food, such as Akara, a delicious fritter made from cowpeas. Salvador is a stunning metropolis covered with bright coloured buildings that give the city a vibrant, welcoming feeling. While in Salvador talk to the locals as they are very friendly and eager to help with any questions you may have. Take a walk through the city centre to really appreciate the beauty of the colourful buildings up close as the scenery makes for glorious photo opportunities. Salvador is a very relaxing place as it does not have the hustle and bustle of Rio or Sao Paulo, so head on down to the sunny beaches, and it will feel like paradise on Earth.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Portuguese is the official language of Brazil.
- Brazil’s currency is the Brazilian Real (R$).
- Major airports include Sao Paulo Guarulhos International Airport (GRU), Rio De Janeiro Galeao Airport (GIG), Brasilia International Airport (BSB), and Santos Dumont Airport (SDU).
- Brazil is in the Southern Hemisphere, with the hottest month being February and the coldest in July.
- In Rio de Janeiro, summer months average at daily highs of 30°C/86°F and lows of 24°C/75°F. In winter months there are average daily highs of 25°C/77°F and lows of 18°C/64°F.
- Avoid drinking tap water in Brazil, instead, buy bottled water.
- Tipping is expected in Brazil- usually about 10% of the final bill.
- Brazil drives on the right side of the road.
- The drinking age is 18 years old.
- Power plugs are of type C, and N. Voltage is 127/220 V and frequency is 60 Hz.
The Quirky and Unusual
Valley of the Dinosaurs
Travel back millions of years and walk alongside dinosaur footprints at Valley of the Dinosaurs. These footprints were moulded in mud and over time hardened to create the imprint we can see today.
Located in Sousa on the north east of Brazil, this 700 square kilometre valley contains the tracks of over 50 species of dinosaur including those of stegosaurus and iguanodons. The area was created and opened to the public in 1984 and has been a hotspot for tourists ever since. This is the perfect place for any dinosaur lover as it lets you get as close as possible to the remains of these ancient beasts.
There are 30 different locations within the Valley where dinosaurs’ footprints have been found, so wander around and try see how many species you can find and name.
Scattered around the Valley are life-sized replicas of dinosaurs to give visitors an idea of what they looked like. There is also a museum called the Valley of the Dinosaur museum where you can learn everything there is to know about these Jurassic beasts.
Address: Rodovia PB391 S/n – Uirauna, Sousa, Brazil
Coordinates: -6.7323, -38.2619