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Brazil Tourism
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Brazil Tourism
Three Alfredo Ceschiatti angel sculptures suspended by steel cables in the nave of the 1970
modernist Cathedral of Brasília designed by Oscar Niemeyer, a hyperboloid structure made
from 16 curved concrete columns and colourful fiber glass tiles creating diaphanous light
effects – a landmark of Brazilian architecture, engineering and art.
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CONTENTS4 The south-east
15 The south
20 The centre-west
26 The north-east
34 The north
38 Carnaval
40 Calendar of Events
42 Brazil A to Z
48 Tourist Boards, Convention& Visitor Bureaux
50 Facts and Figures
A Warm Welcome to Brazil
Whether you are a conventionaltraveller or not, we warmly welcomeyou to discover, enjoy and explore avast array of sites and experiences thatonly Brazil can offer.
In Brazil, you will enjoy endless sunnydays and fine starry nights travellingalong 4.655 miles of magnificentcoastline, where emerald blue watersmerge with golden and white sandybeaches. Some of the most thrillingseaside cities and amazing islands arelocated on the coast: Rio de Janeiro,Salvador, Fernando de Noronha andFlorianópolis, for example.
Brasília, inaugurated in 1960, is theonly 20th century city that wasaccorded World Heritage Site status.Other heritage sites in Brazil worthvisiting are Ouro Preto, Olinda andmany more.
Numerous gigantic parks mirror theBrazilian commitment to preservingprimeval and unique biodiversity. Forunforgettable sights, sounds and tastes,visit the Amazon, Pantanal, AtlanticRidge forest, breathtaking waterfallssuch as Foz do Iguaçu, Sertão, lakes,mountain peaks, canyons, magicalcaverns...
Happiness is consistently practiced byBrazilians, warm and welcomingpeople, that enjoy life valuingeducation, work and leisure.
A brief A-Z section with some keyfacts and figures appears at the end ofthis publication.
BRAZIL LOOKS FORWARD TOWELCOMING YOU!
Picture Credits: Acervo Adrenalina, Alexandre Diniz, Alexandre Campbell, Agência Reuters, AMAZONASTOUR/Ribamar O Caboclo, AndréStefano, Antônio Melcop, Brasil Central, BRASILIATUR, Breno Laprovitera, Carlito Ferreira, Christian Knepper /EMBRATUR, EMBRATUR,Editora Peixes/EMBRATUR, EMPETUR, Foz do Iguaçu Destino do Mundo, Guilhermo Novolisio, Ivaldo Cavalcante, Jota Freitas/BAHIATURSA,Local Foto/SETURCE, Luis Olarte, Maps originated by Oxford Cartographers, Marcus Hirakawa, Markito, Maurício Correia, MaurícioMoreira, Maurício Simonetti, PARATUR, Paranatur, Pavel Chernec, Pedro Paulo Capellossi, Plínio Bordin, Renata Victor, Ricardo Ribas, Rico,Rio CVB/ Jean Jacques Limbourg, Rio CVB/ Marluce Balbino, Rio CVB/Pedro Gama, RIOTUR/ Pedro Kirilos, Riotur/ Ricardo Zerrenner, RoaldAndretta / Loba do Mar / Embratur, Roberto Werner, Rogério Monteiro, SANTUR -Secretaria de Turismo de Santa Catarina, São PauloTurismo, Sec/AM, SEDTUR – Secretaria de Desenvolvimento do Turismo de Mato Grosso/Agência Phocus, Sérgio Mourão/SETUR –Secretaria de Turismo de Minas Gerais, SETURCE, Werner Zotz, Washington Siqueira.
Published by the Tourist Office
of the embassy of Brazil in London
www.brazil.org.uk
Ambassador: H.E. Roberto Jaguaribe
head of Investment, Trade and Innovation:
Minister Rodrigo de Azeredo Santos
head of the Commercial Section:
Secretary Daniel Costa Fernandes
editor: Secretary Igor Germano
Text: Nadia Kerecuk
Art Director: J M Alkmim
Production: Tom Falcão and VirgÍlio Guimarães
Print: MPress(Sales)Ltd
Acknowledgments: Brazilian Tourist Office UK & Ireland,
Embratur (Brazilian Tourist Board), and all state tourism
authorities in Brazil
© Tourist Office of the Embassy of Brazil in London 2011
All rights reserved
Rio de JaneiroThe south-east
IPANemA beach is one of the most vibrant
neighbourhoods in rio and a prime location
for hotels and entertainment in the city
that will be hosting the 2014 World Cup
and 2016 Olympic Games.
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Rio de Janeiro meansendless possibilities
to be enjoyed andindulged at any time in the
year. Copacabana, one of themost famous urban beaches
in the world, a three-milestretch featuring thehallmark Burle Marx
promenade, stylish hotels,eateries and amazing
attractions. It is also home tomassive celebrations on New
Year’s Eve. A visit to theextensive Botanical Gardens
starting from its postcardview of the Barbosa
Rodrigues Alley (named afterits director and botanist)
created in 1808 by the KingDom João VI at the time of
the United Kingdom ofPortugal, Brazil and Algarves,offers a fascinating collection
of more than 7,000 speciesof tropical plants (2). A ridein Santa Teresa’s old tram -
“bondinho” is excellent andinexpensive way of seeing
some amazing views of thecity including the 18th
century Carioca Aqueductwith its amazing arches inthe Lapa district. Also, go
there to enjoy vibrantnightlife and excellent
Brazilian music (3). Theiconic event is the top
Samba Schools Parade atCarnaval along the
‘Passarela do Samba’ or‘Sambódromo’ (4). A must is
a cable car ride to the peakof the Sugar Loaf (1,300
ft/396 m) for breathtakingand unforgettable views of
Guanabara Bay, Copacabana,Ipanema, Christ the
Redeemer on Corcovado andTijuca Forest (5). Experiencebeach volley or ‘futevolei’ (a
kind of volleyball played withthe foot) as the natives do
on the pristine white sandybeaches (6). You will
certainly be delighted withwhatever you choose to do.
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4 5
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Ouro Preto
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Ouro Preto is one of thelargest splendid Baroquesites in the world and one
of the ten UNESCO Cultural WorldHeritage sites in Brazil.
A 17th century historic town inMinas Gerais, named ‘Black Gold’on account of the smudged goldnuggets found at the foot of thesurrounding mountains and rivers.Founded as a hamlet in 1698, VilaRica de Ouro Preto attracted manyadventurers transforming it into agold rush centre.
As the town became prosperous,numerous magnificent churches,cathedrals and fountains were builtin the colonial baroque style withlavishly decorated church interiorsin gold and other opulent adornments.
This attracted and producedmany exceptional baroque artistsand craftsmen, writers andmusicians. Aleijadinho (‘The LittleCripple’, Antonio Francisco Lisboac.1730-1814) a sculptor andarchitect that created uniquesculptures in soap stone or woodand designed St. Francis of AssisiChurch in Ouro Preto. MasterAtaíde (Manuel da Costa Ataíde,1762-1830) a painter and gilderdecorated various churches domesand left many followers.
Cobblestone streets along withthe colonial squares lined with 18thcentury houses have beenconverted into restaurants, shops,hotels retaining their originalfeatures.
FOUNDeD in 1698, Ouro Preto in the
State of minas Gerais, is one of the
greatest homogeneous Baroque sites in
the world.
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Other beautifulcolonial cities nearOuro Preto are
Diamantina, Congonhas(UNESCO World Heritagesites), Mariana, Tiradentesand São João Del Rei. Thesetowns can be easily reachedfrom Belo Horizonte, thecapital of the State.
The Church of Bom Jesusde Matosinhos (above) inthe city of Congonhas datesback to 1771 and is aunique and superb exampleof Brazilian baroque. Thewhitewashed church builton the top of a hill isfamous for its unique
soapstone Twelve Prophetsby Aleijadinho and sixchapels, where you will beable to see his series ofPassion Sculptures in wood.
The 18th century Churchof Saint Francis of Assisi(left) in the historic town ofMariana, similarly to otherchurches of the Brazilianbaroque period, has amagnificent painted ceilingby Master Ataíde. His use ofboth perspective and bluecolour especially for thebackground are singularand create a superlativeeffect. Built in 1774, themain church in the town ofSão João Del-Rei (right),dedicated to St. Francis ofAssisi, is regarded as one ofthe jewels in the crown ofBrazilian Baroquearchitecture, with itsunusual curved façade setin a square lined withtowering palm trees.
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Along the south-eastern coast, aplethora of amazing
beaches, islands andhistoric cities offer uniqueoptions for the traveller.Conceição da Barra (1)dating back to 1554, is abeautiful city in EspíritoSanto featuring splendidcolonial buildings. Thehistoric city of Paraty (2) inRio de Janeiro State,closest to the Tropic ofCapricorn and inhabitedsince 1533, hosts thefamous ParatyInternational LiteraryFestival (FLIP) and Ilhabela(3) close to the São PauloState coast - an archipelagoinhabited since 1502 isperfect for sailing anddiving. (4) Niterói, foundedin 1573, combines historywith modernity – it is thehome to Oscar Niemeyer’slandmark ContemporaryArt Museum.
PrAIA DA eNSeADA in Ubatuba, the surf capital city of São
Paulo within the Tropic of Capricorn. Ubatuba has 75 pristine
beaches offering sea sports and many natural attractions.
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Founded in 1554, amodern and fascinatingmegalopolis, wealthiest
city in Brazil, leadinginternational financial andcommercial centre. Variousimmigrants settled theretransforming it into a vibrantmulti-cultural city withunrivalled artistic, musical,educational and gastronomicchoices. These include SalaSão Paulo, an exquisiteconcert hall, PortugueseLanguage Museum, the
public state-of-art São PauloLibrary, Octavio Frias deoilveira Bridge (right) - theworld’s first X-shaped cablestayed bridge, IbirapueraPark, Avenida Paulista(below, left) with numerousglobal companies, shops,restaurants in very high risebuildings as well as the SãoPaulo Modern Art Museum(MASP). A view of MASPand the St. Silvester RoadRace on 31st December(below, right).
São Paulo
One city is a world architectural heritage site and the other
internationally known as the marvellous City.
Brazil: a sensational country.
Brasília, the capital of Brazil, a totally planned city, is a global standard for urbanism.
Rio de Janeiro did not get its title only because of its undisputed natural beauty.
Many regard it as a place that exudes national culture. On your next vacation, be prepared to get acquainted
with Rio and other Brazilian cities brandishing diversified cultural scenes
www.braziltour.com
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FlorianópolisThe south
Capital of SantaCatarina,Florianópolis is a
cosmopolitan wealthy citylocated on a large islandconnected to the continentby three bridges - a touristhotspot with 42 fabulouswhite sandy beaches suchas Jurerê, Brava andIngleses. The latterpreserves the Azorianfeatures of its colonizers.Joaquina is an internationalsurfing centre: waves aresuperb. The rolling hillswith the Atlantic forest andvarious smaller islandsmake it exceptionallyattractive. Traditionalfishing villages stock theexcellent restaurants. Atrue paradise with worldclass entertainment.
Foz do Iguaçu
The Iguaçu Falls are one of thegreat natural wonders of theworld in the state of Paraná
bordering with Argentina andParaguay. There are 275 waterfallsthat stretch 1.8 miles across theIguaçu River and the highest is 97metres (319 ft, five times larger thanNiagara). The very impressive Devil’sThroat, is the largest waterfall in theworld in terms of volume of waterper second.
The falls are an unforgettablespectacle at any time of the year andcan be viewed from both the Brazilianand Argentinian banks of the river,from boat trips at the bottom of thefalls or from a helicopter. TheBrazilian viewing area is located in aNational Park that covers a 49.200 ha.area located both in Brazil andArgentina, which has five types offorest and bio-systems in a singleplace designated a World HeritageSite by UNESCO in 1986. Parque dasAves is a very special environmentalbird aviary in the forest with 900birds of 150 species, a butterflysanctuary and reptiles and wildlifeareas. The Itaipu Dam nearby canalso be visited. Guardian readersrecently voted Foz do Iguaçu as theirfavourite overseas attraction.
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3 4
5 6
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The South has a variety of superb tourist attractions.
Outstanding beaches can be enjoyed both north
and south of Florianópolis. In the state of Paraná:
Ilha do Mel (1), an ecological paradise island with
wonderful beaches, trails, an old Dutch fortress, no cars
and excellent waves for surfers. Curitiba (2), the capital
city, UN 1992 ecological city, famous for its urban planning
and public transport system with 25 large urban parks.
Vila Velha Park (3) features intriguing sandstone
formations that were at the bottom of an ocean 600
million years ago. Rio Grande do Sul is home to the ruins
of São Miguel das Missões (4), a Jesuit mission founded in
1632, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Also the gorgeous
Torres beach (5) should not be missed and the vibrant
capital, Porto Alegre (6), lying at the confluence of five
rivers with its colonial buildings and Botanical Gardens.
eCOTOUrISm enjoyed on horseback - excellent to learn about the local
‘gaucho’ (= resident of rio Grande do Sul) culture in its pampas or in the
mountains: Venancios Waterfalls near the town of Jaquirana situated in
rolling hills, where magnificent Brazilian Araucaria (Angustifolia) trees can
be appreciated with spectacular views of the Atlantic mountain ridge.
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Brasília
The centre-west
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Brasília, the newcapital of Brazil,which succeeded
Rio de Janeiro, celebrated50 years in 2010. The ideaof a capital in the centre ofBrazil was nurtured sinceearly 19th century.President JucelinoKubitschek made themomentous decision tobuild the new federalcapital, which was built inless than three years.
Lúcio Costa’s Pilot Plan,with its characteristic birdlayout, won thecompetition for the newcapital plan. OscarNiemeyer designed themain buildings andRoberto Burle Marx thegardens.
Divided into north andsouth sections by theMonumental Axis withdesignated social activityareas, it was hailed as afuturistic paradigm with itsavant-garde architecture.
Brasília is the only 20th-century city with theUNESCO World HeritageSite status.
The TV Tower offers aspectacular view of thecity. The Cathedral (left), ahyperboloid structurewith its 16 curvedconcrete pillars, colouredglass panels is an iconicexample of OscarNiemeyer’s architectureand calculations ofengineer JoaquimCardozo. The NationalCongress Building in theThree Powers Square andthe surroundingministries, the PlanaltoPalace (below) andSupreme Federal Court,Alvorada Palace, thePalace of Justice and theItamaraty Palace, ForeignMinistry, with its notablefirst floor garden and theParanoa’s Lake symbolizemodernity and power ofBrazil.
The National Museum ofthe Republic (left, below)next to the famousCathedral is the latestNiemeyer’s work in thecity, inaugurated in 2006.
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Bonito & Pantanal
The city of Bonito (‘beautiful’),surrounded by natural conservationareas, is located 206 miles from Campo
Grande, the capital of the State of MatoGrosso do Sul in the centre-west. The regionhas calcium bedrocks that produce crystalclear water in its waterfalls, springs, lagoonsand caverns with deep blue lakes and crystalclear rivers. Aquatic life is truly stunning inBonito's pools. In the Aquário Natural(Natural Aquarium), visitors can go diving orsnorkelling and have a close view of scores of colourful tropical fish.
Many sports activities can be enjoyedthere: snorkelling, swimming in clear riverssurrounded by thick jungle and its beautifulplants and sub-aquatic vegetation. Otherpopular nature-related activities are hiking,biking and rafting and rope challenge courses.
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The Pantanal is the world’s largest wetland area withthe greatest number of animal species in theWestern Hemisphere, located in the states of Mato
Grosso and Mato Grosso do Sul (also parts of Bolivia andParaguay). It is a gigantic ecosystem home to a largenumber of birds species as the jabiru, the tallest flyingbird found in South America (above), reptiles as thecaiman (below), fish and invertebrates, all spread out inforests, meadows and grasslands. Nearly 80% of the Pantanal floodplains are submergedduring the rainy seasons. The region is known as one ofthe best places in the world for fishing and bird watching.Other adventurous exploits: fishing for piranhas amongstcaimans, boat trips, watching the alligators and otheranimals on the river and even herding cattle onhorseback.
VISIT the stunning 500 million-year old rock
formations at the Guimarães Plateau (Chapada dos
Guimarães) in the highlands of mato Grosso, where
you can also see large waterfalls and numerous
animals and plants. Chapada dos Veadeiros, in the
State of Goiás, near Brasília, is a similar plateau
worth including in your itinerary.
SalvadorThe north-east
A NICe view of the Baía de Todos os
Santos (Bay of All Saints) from the art
deco elevador Lacerda, a lift connecting
the Upper and the Lower City, one of
Salvador’s most popular attractions.
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Salvador, capital of the Stateof Bahia, is steeped inhistory: not only was it the
first large city in Brazil, but alsothe capital of the Portuguesecrown in the Americas from 1549to 1763, and the most importantport in the southern hemisphereuntil the 18th century.
Closely associated with Afro-Brazilian culture and reflecting aunique blend of European, Africanand Amerindian cultures, itsattractions include a vibrant musicscene, which gave birth tocapoiera - a local mixture of danceand martial arts, delightfulcolonial architecture, deliciouscuisine and wonderful localpeople (5). Because of its historicimportance and features such as
the cobblestone streets lined with17th and 18th century palacesand Baroque churches in the areaof Pelourinho (4), it was grantedthe UNESCO World Heritage Sitedesignation. Pelourinho, the placewhere slaves used to be floggedpublicly in the past, has become amandatory site for tourism,culture and celebrations, housinga large number of Carnival groups,such as ‘Bloco Pierrot’ (2),pictured here in the Largo doCruzeiro.
While many of the best beacheson the stunning Bahian coastlinelie within a couple of hours' drive,the city itself also boasts Praia daBarra (3), recently voted one ofbest ten beaches in the world byThe Guardian (2009).
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Fernando de Noronha
One of the world’s most beautifulecologic sanctuaries, the 21-islandarchipelago of Fernando de Noronha
is a wonderful place to relax and to enjoynature. It is listed by UNESCO as a NaturalWorld Heritage site. This well preservedparadise allows no more than 450 tourists ata time, since 2/3 of the main island are partof a National Marine Reserve. There areflights connecting the main island to the citiesof Natal (225 miles) and Recife (337 miles).
Most tourists stay in simple pousadasowned by locals and there are a fewrestaurants in the main island. It is possible towalk to many beaches and attractions fromthe centre, but there are taxis and busesavailable and also the possibility of renting abuggy for a day. Most of the archipelago isprotected as an ecological reserve, andvisitors must pay an ‘ecological tax’ as acontribution towards conservation work.
The archipelago was officially discovered byAmerico Vespucci in 1503 and was occupiedby French, Dutch and Portuguese, who builtforts on strategic spots. Charles Darwin,visited the main island in February 1832 .
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The mAIN island is home to some of the most
beautiful beaches in Brazil, such as Baía dos
Porcos, with its Two Brother rocks (left), and
Conceição (below). Crystal clear blue water at an
average temperature of 280 C (820 F) allows
visibility of up to 50 meters (a must for divers
and snorkelers). The fascinating marine-life
includes sea turtles, sharks, spinner dolphins,
albatrosses and rare fish. A myriad of options:
watching dolphins, surfing, swimming, trekking,
boat tours and sun bathing.
Tropical splendour
SUN, palm trees, sandy beaches, dunes, lakes and islands
and emerald blue sea are the norm in the Northeast in
Brazil. Lagoinha Beach, in Ceará, pictured here, is one of
such realms of splendour and bliss.
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(Top left) Chapada Diamantina with amazing waterfalls nested amongst very high mountains near the city of Lençóis, 430km from Salvador.
(Top right) maracatu, in Pernambuco: some 100 drummers, a singer, dancers and stock characters perform a unique parade – manifestation of
north-eastern folk culture. (Botton left) The northeast has an abundance of delectable fragrant tropical fruits, as the cashew apple, for example
(cashew nuts come from it). (Botton right) ‘Jangadeiros’ - local fishermen in ‘jangadas’ - traditional wooden watercrafts with triangular sails.
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The North-east of Brazil offersunforgettable views, tastes andimpressions. The coast is
pinpointed with colonial citiesbearing the marks of the colonizersand others, thriving modern cities,amazing beaches, the hinterlandwith its unique sertão and a richcultural heritage.
Lençóis Maranhenses NationalPark, in Maranhão, a fabulousnatural attraction in Brazil (top), witha stunning sweep of white sanddunes just outside the Amazon basinwith crystalline blue fresh waterlagoons that form after the rainfallseason and sustain many fish.
Ponta Negra Beach in Natal
(above left) is one of the mostappreciated beaches that has ahuge dune covered with vegetation– Morro do Careca as can be seenin the left hand corner of thephotograph. Natal is the capital ofRio Grande do Norte, a largethriving city, with delightful local
seafood cuisine, lavish breakfastswith local fruit juices and delicioussweets and cakes.
Porto de Galinhas (above right),60km south of Recife in Pernambuco,is one of the most popular touristdestinations with ten stunningbeaches and sun all year round.Transluscent pools with tepidemerald-green waters filled withscores of coulourful fish, a perfectplace to swim. In the evening, itbecomes a gastronomic paradisewith unique local dishes made withthe freshest seafood. Gourmets canenjoy their meals at the sound oflocal Brazilian music and breathtakingviews of the seashore.
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The Amazon
The north
The Amazon, theworld’s largest tropicalrain forest, covers
most of the north of Brazil. Ithas had a universal appealthrough the ages - a dreamthat thousands of touristscome to fulfil every year by
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eXTrAOrDINArY fauna: the squirrel
monkey and the friendly pink dolphin
(opposite page); and on this page - the
Brazilian gold frog perhaps the smallest
frog in the world - adults measure 9.8 mm
or 0.4 inch, the cock-of-the-rock bird, black
spider monkeys relaxing in a hammock and
the beautiful and feared jaguar.
navigating its gigantic rivers in an attempt tounravel its enticing beauty and appreciatingits unique biodiversity. The cities of Belémand Manaus are traditional gatewaysoffering a profusion of opportunities to getacquainted with the flora and fauna of theAmazonas as well as the way of life of itspeople along with their rich cultural heritage.
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Teatro Amazonas located in theheart of Manaus (left) is a BelleÉpoque opera theatre built at the
height of the rubber boom in Brazilwith the aim of making Manaus acentre of civilization. Built in a shorttime with imported materials fromEurope: Carrara marble, steel, Muranoglass, roof tiles and interiordecorations, with the first OperaSeason in 1897, held now in April andMay (670 seats). Teatro da Paz inBelém (below) built in the same periodin neoclassical style features animpressive luxurious interior withoutstanding paintings.
A LArGe number of indigenous tribes live in the
Amazon. In remote areas of the jungle, a few
tribes have not had formal contact with the
outer world.
PArINTINS, a city 230 miles from
manaus, hosts the Boi Bumbá
folklore festival in late June, as
significant as Carnaval in rio in
terms of colour and size. Two
groups, Garantido (in red) and
Caprichoso (in blue) compete inside
an arena in front of 35,000
spectators: an unforgettable blend
of drama, dance and music.
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Car
nav
al
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CArNAVAL is pure fun and joy throughout Brazil. rio deJaneiro hosts the famous parade along the ‘Sambodrome’(opposite and 4). Salvador offers a street party withlegendary Trios Elétricos - live music on lorries fitted with highpower sound and Afro-Brazilian notable groups as AfoxéFilhos de Gandy (2). Olinda, close to recife, has vibrantcelebrations, with local groups parading with their giantpuppets (3). São Paulo’s parade of local samba schools is onpar with that of rio. Join in the dancing and cheerfulness justanywhere in Brazil along with samba schools, Trios Elétricos,parades and club parties.
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January
New Year’s Celebrations: ‘Reveillon’ is whatBrazilians call New Year’s Eve celebration. Brazilwelcomes the New Year with fireworks,champagne, music, delicious food and greatparties. Copacabana beach in Rio de Janeiro hasone of the most spectacular parties in the worldattracting over 2 million revellers with liveconcerts, dances, African traditions and a lavishdisplay of fireworks at midnight. The partycontinues on New Year’s Day. Procissão dos Navegantes (New Year’s Day): TheNavigators’ Parade is a celebration in whichhundreds of fishing boats follow a ship that carriesimages of Our Lady of Navigators or Our Lord ofNavigators in Salvador, Angra dos Reis andelsewhere along the Brazilian coast. This is oftencombined with celebrations of Yemanjá, theGoddess of the Seas, an Afro-Brazilian religioussyncretism.Washing of the Steps of Our Lord of the Good end
(Lavagem do Bonfim) 2nd Thursday in Salvador:Since 1773, the ceremony of washing the steps ofthe Church of Bonfim is performed by hundreds ofwomen in traditional Bahian dress with manyother faithful that ascend the sacred hill of theChurch of Bonfim after an eight-kilometreprocession that starts at the gothic Church ofConceição da Praia (1623) in Salvador. São Paulo Fashion Week (mid January). Featuringtop Brazilian models and fashion designers is ashowcase of Brazilian creativity and innovation.
FebruaryFesta do rio Vermelho (2nd Feb) in Salvador: In1920’s, a group of fishermen started a traditionof a boat procession departing from beach of theRio Vermelho district carrying offerings toYemanjá, the Goddess of the Sea, in form offlowers, perfumes and lights accompanied byAfro-Brazilian music.
Carnaval is a movable event throughout Brazil thatbegins on the weekend before Ash Wednesday andfinishes on morning of Ash Wednesday. Date forthe next few years: 2011: 04-09 March; 2012: 17-22 February; 2013: 09-13 February; 2014: 01-04March. For details see carnaval on page 44.
marchCarnaval - Movable event. easter Week – Celebrations throughout Brazil withPassion Plays in open air theatres – the largest ofwhich is in Nova Jerusalém near Recife and inmany historic towns in the State of Minas Geraiswith processions, Maundy Thursday washing of thefeet, Good Friday ceremony of the Stages of theCross and concerts.
Calendar of Events
NEW YEAR’S EVE celebration onCopacabana beach, Rio de Janeiro.
Carnaval in São Paulo
Easter Week Celebrations in Ouro Preto
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Aprileaster Week – Movable event.International hot-Air Balloon festival (late Apr) inTorres, State of Rio Grande do Sul: The largestannual event of the kind in Latin America in theseaside town of Torres, which attracts manyspectators and includes a parachute display, zoo,rodeo competition and fireworks display.manaus Opera Festival – season starts in April andcontinues into May at the historic TeatroAmazonas built at the peak of rubber boom inBrazil and immortalized in Werner Herzog's filmFitzcarraldo (670 seats).
mayThe Feast of the holy Ghost - Festa do DivinoEspírito Santo (moveable - 45 days after Easter):Colourful celebrations in which mock battlesbetween Christians and Moors are staged – thetowns of Pirenópolis in the State of Goiás andAlcântara in Maranhão offer particularlyexceptional shows.
JuneFestas Juninas: June folklore festivities celebratingSt. Anthony (13th), St. John (24th) and St. Peter(29th) across Brazil: Party-goers dress up ascountry folk and celebrate with music and squaredance, bonfires, paper hot air balloons, mulledwine (quentão) and traditional food. In Caruaru inthe State of Pernambuco and Campina Grande inParaíba, St John is particularly revered withmassive popular dance festivals, they become truecapitals of forró. Festa do Bumba-meu-boi (June) in São Luís,Maranhão: A traditional folk festival and colourfulcelebration, in which skilled performers enact the
story of the death and resurrection of an ox withimprovised songs/poems in a danced parade. Itrefers to a legend in which fragility of man iscontrasted with the brute force of the ox in life. Festa do Boi Bumbá (late Jun) in Parintins (State ofAmazonas): Famous celebration in Amazonas,comparable to Rio’s Carnival in colour and size, inwhich two groups, Garantido (in red) andCaprichoso (in blue) compete inside an arena with35,000 seats. A combination of a theatrical show,dance and music.São Paulo’s Gay Parade. (early Jun): The GLBTParade is one of the biggest events of its kind inthe world.
JulyFestival de Inverno (Winter Festival) in Campos doJordão in the state of São Paulo: One of the mostimportant festivals of classical music in LatinAmerica.International dance festival in Joinville, State ofSanta Catarina: From classical ballet to jazz andfolk, dance performances, workshops andcompetitions in one of the world’s largest dancefestivals.Festa Literária Internacional de Paraty (FLIP). TheParaty International Literary Festival became aprestigious international literary gathering in thehistoric city of Paraty in Rio de Janeiro. It offers aversatile programme of lectures, plays, meetingsand concerts (dates may vary).Ilhabela Sailing Week (3rd week) in Ilhabela, anisland off the coast of the state of São Paulo: hoststhe largest sailing event in Brazil an obligatorydestination for Yatchies.
AugustSertões International rally/rally dos Sertões (late
Jul and Aug) A 10-day motor-sport event in which
race car drivers in cars, trucks and motorcycles
take part in the rally through rough countryside in
Brazil along a stretch of 2,796 miles (4,500 km).
Gramado Film Festival in the city of Gramado in
the state of Rio Grande do Sul: The most important
annual film awards event in Brazil, with the best of
Brazilian and Latin American cinema.
Pinga Festival in Paraty, State of Rio de Janeiro:
‘Pinga’ is a popular name for the traditional
cachaça. The festival has Cachaça tasting, musical
concerts and regional food.
Festa do Peão Boiadeiro in Barretos, State of São
Paulo - One of the world’s largest rodeo events
attracting one million visitors every year.
International Festival of Culture and Gastronomy
in Tiradentes, State of Minas Gerais: Every year,
the historic town of Tiradentes hosts a 10-day
gastronomic event with international chefs,
workshops and exhibitions in restaurants and
public squares.
SeptemberFlower Show/expoflora in Holambra, State of SãoPaulo: Expoflora is one of the largest flower andornamental plant shows in Latin America, heldevery September in Holambra, a small townfounded by Dutch immigrants soon after the endof World War II. International Fishing Festival (FIP) in Cáceres,State of Mato Grosso: The largest fishingtournament in the world, according to theGuinness Book of Records, with more than 1,500
competitors and around 200,000 visitors. It is alsoa showcase of Pantanal culture, with arts andcrafts fairs, music, folk dancing and local cuisine.
OctoberOktoberfest in Blumenau, State of Santa Catarina:Traditional street party second only to Munichcelebrating German culture with music, food,parties and lots of Brazilian beer.Círio de Nazaré in Belém, State of Pará (secondSunday): One of the world’s largest celebrationshonouring Virgin Mary (the Virgin of Nazaré is thepatron saint of Pará) with more than one millionpilgrims arriving in Belém for this celebration.São Paulo International Film Festival in the city ofSão Paulo: With around 350 selected films frommore than 50 countries, every year the festivalattracts the best of the Brazilian film industry,directors from around the world and a legion ofcinema lovers.São Paulo Art Biennial (Oct-Dec, even years):Traditional display of modern art from around theworld in a large pavilion at Ibirapuera Park, SãoPaulo.
NovemberBrazilian Formula 1 Grand Prix in Interlagos, Stateof São Paulo: Venue of the Formula 1 Grand Prixregarded as one of the most atmospheric circuitswith enthusiastic Brazilian fans, usually hosting thefinal round of the F1 season. (dates may vary)
DecemberFesta de Santa Bárbara in Salvador, Bahia: A
popular three-day Afro-Brazilian religious
ceremony through the streets of the historic
centre of Salvador around the image of Saint
Barbara (Goddess Yansã in Candomblé).
São Silvestre race in São Paulo: On 31st
December, professional and amateur runners run
through the streets of São Paulo in a 9-mile (15
km) traditional marathon.
June folklore festivities in Boa Vista
Formula 1 Grand Prix in Interlagos, São Paulo.
Bumba-meu-boi folk festival in São Luís
The Feast of the holy Ghost in Pirenópolis
42
AIr TrAVeL
There are flights to Brazil from all
continents. A number of budget
airlines operate in Brazil.
Passengers with an international
ticket can take advantage of the
AIRPASS system. (See entry below)
Major hubs serving the Brazilian
regions:
• São Paulo (south-east) -
Guarulhos International Airport
(GRU)
• Rio de Janeiro (south-east) -
Galeão- Antônio Carlos Jobim
International Airport (GIG)
• Porto Alegre (south) - Salgado
Filho International Airport (POA)
• Curitiba (south) - Afonso Pena
International Airport (CWB)
• Brasília (centre-west)- Juscelino
Kubitschek International Airport
(BSB)
• Salvador (north-east) - Deputado
Luís Eduardo Magalhães
International Airport (SSA)
• Recife (north-east) - Guararapes -
Gilberto Freyre International
Airport (REC)
• Fortaleza (north-east) - Pinto
Martins International Airport (FOR)
AIrPASS
AIRPASS is convenient and excellent
value for international airfare ticket
holders for domestic air travel within
Brazil, sold only outside Brazil. This is
particularly relevant considering the
sheer size of Brazil: Airpasses
represent a significant economy in
terms of time and money. For further
details consult your travel agent.
BACKPACKerS AND BUDGeT
TrAVeLLerS
Budget accommodation is available
anywhere in Brazil: hostels, pousadas
(small family hotels, some boutique
and more rustic) and camping sites.
Travellers should expect to pay more
during the holiday season (Dec-Feb
& Jul) and Carnaval.
A to Z
BANKS, CUrreNCY AND CreDIT
CArDS
Banking is advanced with high tech
automation system, Internet
enabled, reliable with strong fraud
protection. Practically all Brazilian
cities have at least one branch of a
major bank.
Largest branch networks: Banco do
Brasil, Bradesco, Itaú, Santander,
Caixa Econômica Federal, Unibanco,
HSBC, Nossa Caixa and Banrisul.
Opening hours: Mon-Fri, in general
10 am - 4 pm. All banks must be
open from 12am to 3pm (Brasília
time). ATms can be found
practically everywhere, especially in
larger cities and tourist sites.
Credit/debit cards: Note that not all
ATMs can be used for foreign cards
– look out for a machine with card
symbols on facia. Banco do Brasil
branches have ATMs for foreign
cards.
BeACh SPOrTS
• Football is played everywhere
and in many different ways since
late 19th century.
• Beach volley is probably the most
popular beach sport and modalities
created by Brazilians are greatly
enjoyed:
frescobol created in Copacabana,
Rio de Janeiro, after the World War
II, is unique as there are no winners
and cooperation prevails,
futevolei a kind of volleyball played
with the foot, head, chest and
shoulders created in Copacabana.
BeVerAGeS
Guaraná is the most popularBrazilian soft drink made from theberries of a native Amazonian plant.A plethora of fruit juices and
smoothies are available everywhere.
Chope, draught beer, is the most
popular way of drinking beer, served
very cold and with a head. Beer is
always very cold in Brazil.
Cachaça is the most popular distilled
alcoholic beverage in Brazil.
Brazilians have traditionally mixed
Cachaça with fruit juice rather
than having it straight.
The most famous Brazilian cocktail
is Caipirinha, which has become a
favourite on the best bar menus
across the globe. Batida is also
enjoyed and it is made of Cachaça
and pure passion fruit juice,
coconut or other fruit beaten with
sugar and ice.
Wines: Brazil is a significant new
world wine producer and the fifth
largest in Southern hemisphere.
Four main regions produce light,
fresh wines that exude a unique
aroma: Serra Gaúcha and Vale dos
Vinhedos (first Brazilian producer
awarded the international ‘Brazilian
Geographical Indication’), Planalto
Catarinense in the south and São
Francisco Valley in the northeast
producing Cabernet Sauvignon,
Shiraz, Merlot, Cabernet Franc,
Tannat, Ancellota, Pinot Noir,
Aragonez, Chenin Blanc and Riesling,
Chardonnay, Proseco, Muscat and
Malvasia. Many of them are small
family-owned vineyards.
Drinking for Brazilians is normally a
social affair and it is inconceivable to
drink without sampling a variety of
delicious savoury bites.
43
The legal age to purchase and
consume alcohol ic dr inks in
Braz i l i s 18.
Currency: Real, (plural reais) with100 centavos (C) to the real (R$).Available in 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 and100 notes and coins indenominations of 1, 5, 10, 25 and 50 cent and R$ 1 .
44
BIrD WATChING
Brazil is a paradise for bird watchers
with approximately 1,825 bird
species of which 234 are endemic to
Brazil.Various tour companies specialize in
trips to the Amazon, Pantanal, Foz do
Iguaçu and other prime bird
watching spots.
BUSINeSS CONTACTS WITh BrAZIL
Brazil is committed to promoting
overseas trade through the Trade
Promotion Sections – ‘SECOM’ of the
Brazilian Posts strategically distributed
throughout the world. The SECOMs
gather and disseminate up-to-date
information on business and
investment opportunities for Brazilians
and foreign investors. In addition,
SECOMs are tasked with promoting
new markets for the Brazilian industry
and services sector by helping to
convene trade fairs, corporate
missions and other similar events.
CAr AND COACh TrAVeL
Brazil has over one million miles of
roads and an extensive domestic
coach service linking all of the main
cities. Inexpensive way but distances
can be considerable.
Distances from Rio de Janeiro to
some of the main Brazilian cities in
miles/kilometers:
Belém (2,014/3,240), Belo Horizonte
(275/442), Brasília (711/1,140),
Curitiba (520/835), Fortaleza
(1,771/2,900), Foz do Iguaçu
(932/1,500), João Pessoa
(1,600/2,575), Manaus
(2,741/4,410), Natal (1,709/2,680),
Porto Alegre (963/1,555), Recife
(1,529/2,460), Salvador
(1,051/1,726), Santarém
(2,404/3,856), Santos (311/500), São
Paulo (266/429), Vitória (319/525).
Also, it is possible to travel from
Brazil to neighbouring countries by
bus (Rio de Janeiro - Buenos Aires -
44 hours and 1,800 miles /2,900 Km
Reservations to be made in advance:
at travel agent or coach terminal.
Passports are required as there is
immigration border control.
CAPOeIrA
A stylized martial-art dance from
Brazil with roots in Africa
characterized by acrobatic fighting
manœuvres and athletic dance steps
performed in circles with its own
music. Its rhythmic beat and tempo
are set by singing and instruments
e.g the leading instrument berimbau
de barriga (gourd-resonated, braced
musical bow of African origin), caxixi,
atabaque (tall Afro-Brazilian hand
drum), and pandeiro (a type of hand
frame drum). Two contenders display
synchronized choreographies,
characterized by ginga, its
fundamental movement (rocking
legs, arms, feet and head back and
forth), with kicks and pirouettes with
plenty of crafty loops, beguile and
cunning. A circle of people - ‘Roda de
Capoeira’ - comprises contenders
and instrumentalists that are
responsible for tone and beat.
Enjoyed by both men and women,
Capoeira is a national sport in Brazil,
taught in schools and performed in
street festivals.
CAr hIre
Most of the international car rental
companies operate in the major
Brazilian cities alongside local
companies at the main airports.
Most international credit cards are
accepted and driver usually needs to
be over 25. Vehicles in Brazil are
flexi-fuel and ethanol represents
good value for money. Drivers need
to carry their ID and driving license.
CArNAVAL
Brazil has the best Carnaval in the
world, a moveable feast tied to the
religious calendar. Celebrations begin
BUSINeSS hOUrS
Office hours: Mon-Fri, 9am-6pm.
Shopping centres: Mon-Sat,
10am-10pm and large shopping
centres - Sun 10am-8pm.
Shops: Mon-Fri, 9am-7pm, Sat,
9am-1pm. Some shops in large
cities open on Sunday.
Supermarkets: Mon-Fri, 8am-
10pm. Some open on Sundays,
some are open 24 hours.
Petrol stations: Petrol stations can
operate 24 hours a day, but not all
do so.
It is illegal to sell or buy any wild
animal in Brazil.
45
on the Friday evening prior to Ash
Wednesday, usually finish by
Wednesday but may spill into the
week. Various Brazilian offices and
businesses close for the Carnaval
week. Carnaval can be celebrated
anywhere in Brazil and the main
cities are:
rio de Janeiro – traditionally
celebrated in the streets with local
blocos (groups) of various sizes in
every neighbourhood – sometimes
followed by huge crowds on
Copacabana and Ipanema beaches.
Anybody can join in. The main samba
school parade takes place along the
‘Sambódromo’ in Rio de Janeiro on
Sunday and Monday evenings. A
winner’s parade is held on the
subsequent Saturday.
Tickets for the parades go on sale
towards the end of the year and
must be reserved in advance as
there is much demand. Prices
currently (2010) start at around £130
and can be reserved through most of
the good tour operators.
Salvador - a street party with two
highlights: the parade of Trios
Elétricos and the Blocos Afro. A trio
elétrico is a lorry fitted with high
power sound with a band playing on
top and parading very slowly either
along the city centre or beach.
Originally in 1950s Bahia, they used to
have three musicians playing for small
crowds.
The revellers dance and sing along
with the Trio Elétrico. Trios form the
core of blocos. Revellers pay to join
a bloco and receive an abadá
(usually T-shirt and shorts) – a ‘pass’
to join the parade inside the cordão
(cordon carried by security ushers).
People partying outside the cordon
are called pipoca (popcorn).
Revellers can also rent camarotes
(private VIP spaces) along the
parade route, from which they can
watch the show or join in whenever
they wish.
Blocos Afro have their roots in
African traditions and music, such
as afoxé. The rhythms and the
costumes are usually African-
inspired and Olodum, Ilê Aiyê and
Ara Ketu are the most popular. The
group Afoxé Filhos de Gandy
(Gandy’s Afoxé Sons), is Salvador's
largest and best known Carnival
attraction, inspired by Mahatma
Gandhi when it was created in
1949.
recife - Festivities begin in
December, when locals begin
preparing for the Carnaval. A
variety of Brazilian and local
rhythms is played, such as
maracatu beats, frevo and samba.
It opens on early Saturday
morning, with Galo da Madrugada
party in the old centre of Recife,
attracting 1.5 million people. 30
Trios Elétricos and numerous
groups animate the party along 4
kilometres of streets to the sounds
of frevo. Also jesters (troças),
maracatus, samba schools, folk
dancers such as caboclinhos and
irreverent masked papangus
(literally manioc porridge eaters)
make the parade truly enticing.
Olinda, a world heritage city very
close to Recife, holds a truly
popular Carnaval open to all. The
local blocos of various sizes start
playing and moving at random
anytime, anywhere. Larger and
older blocos with their giant
puppets and traditional songs
attract a captive audience in the
narrow streets of Olinda.
São Paulo–The highlight is the
parade of local Samba Schools held
on the evenings of Friday and
Saturday at the Anhembi
Sambodrome. Many revellers
celebrate in the street and in clubs.
Other towns and cities - Expect to find
Trios Elétricos parades, club parties or
some type of Carnival celebration in
virtually all Brazilian cities. Some
Brazilians still prefer going to smaller
or less famous cities on the coast or in
the interior in search for a different
Carnaval experience.
CrUISe TrIPS
Various cruise liners are regular
visitors to the Brazilian shores. The
most popular ports of call are Rio de
Janeiro especially during Carnaval,
Manaus, Belém, Fortaleza, Recife,
Salvador, Vitória, Florianópolis and
São Paulo.
Forthcoming Carnaval dates -starting Friday evening throughWednesday lunchtime: 2011: 4-9 Mar/ 2012: 17-22Feb/ 2013: 9-13 Feb/ 2014: 1-4Mar.
CUSTOmS AND ImmIGrATION
Foreign passport holders must
retain the immigration form they
fill in on arrival until departure.
Fines may be applied for loss of
the form.
Before landing it is mandatory to
fill in the Accompanied Baggage
Declaration Form.
Other details may be obtained at
your nearest Consulate General of
Brazil.
DIVING AND SNOrKeLLING
Exceptional diving and snorkellingcan be enjoyed along the extensiveBrazilian coast as well as in rivers,lakes and caves. The Fernando deNoronha archipelago, the emerald-green north-eastern coast offersexceptional opportunities. AbrolhosMarine Park, an archipelago about
44 miles off the southern coast of
Bahia offers unique opportunities to
see coral reefs and humpback whales
and hundreds of birds. Bonito has
some of the clearest rivers on
account of the amount of limestone
in the area, with exceptional
opportunities to dive or snorkel with
many hundred of species of fish in
beautiful aquatic flora.
For more information, please
contact: www.brasilnetwork.tur.br
DUTY Free GOODS
There are limits on how much you
can bring as duty free. Anything over
the quota will be charged at 50% of
the receipt. Travellers may also
purchase goods to the value of US$
500 worth, including drink and
tobacco at the international airports
on arrival.
eLeCTrICAL CUrreNT
The electric current is in general 110
and 127 volts (60 cycles) in most
cities in Brazil. Many places use both
currents 110/127 and 220 volts and
there is usually an indication of
voltage.
FIShING
With a huge variety of fish and an
extensive coastline and gigantic
rivers and lakes, all types of fishing
can be enjoyed. The Amazon River
basin have long been popular with
fishermen from Brazil and abroad.
The Pantanal is another great area
for sport fishing, welcoming more
than 100,000 visitors annually.
Rivers Araguaia, Paraná, São
Francisco and Grande attract many
fishermen with families. Laws
regulate fishing in Brazil and it is
advisable to get acquainted with the
necessary legislation in order to fish
in Brazilian waters.
GOLF
Golf was introduced to Brazil by the
English and Scottish railway
engineers in the 19th c. Golf lovers
can enjoy amazing courses in Rio de
Janeiro (Buzios Golf Club - Hotel do
Frade & Golf Resort), São Paulo
(Vista Verde Golf Club - Damha Golf
Club), Bahia (Costa do Sauípe Golf
Links- Ibero Star - Terravista Golf
Course - Transamerica Ilha de
Comandatuba), Paraná (Aguativa
Golf Resort - Bourbon Iguassu Golf
Club & Resort), and other places.
For further details, please visit:
www.brasilnetwork.tur.br and
www.braziltour.com
heALTh
Brazil has an excellent network of
private hospitals in the major
metropolitan centres. Private
medical care can be expensive, so it
is advisable that all visitors take out
medical insurance.
The Brazilian Single Health System,
public health service, can be used by
foreigners in an emergency. Travel
medical advice is available from
Brazilian Consulate websites.
Please note that a valid international
certificate of vaccination against
yellow fever is compulsory for
travellers who, within the three
months prior to their arrival in Brazil,
have visited or been in transit
through some countries in Africa,
Central America, the Caribbean and
South America.
INTerNeT
Internet service is widely available in
Brazil and usually quite good value
for money. Hotels, shopping centres,
cafes, and designated areas in large
parks have Wi-Fi access.
POSTAL SerVICe
The postal service - Correios - in
Brazil is reliable and efficient. Post
Offices are usually open from 8 am
to 6 pm, Mon – Fri and Sat until
midday.
The express mail service in Brazil is
known as SEDEX and operates from
most of the main post offices.
46
Note also that some cities, e.g.
Brasília, Florianópolis, Fortaleza,
Recife, Natal and others use 220
volts. Most electric/electronic
appliances in Brazil use a two
round pin socket. Adapters are
usually available at hotels.
47
rAIL TrAVeL
The passenger rail network in Brazil
is extremely limited with 17,500
miles of railways compared to over
one million miles of roads. A high-
speed rail link between Rio de
Janeiro and São Paulo is scheduled
to open in 2015. There are, however,
a number of scenic routes, such as
the Curitiba-Paranaguá (an imperial
railway inaugurated in 1880) to Foz
do Iguaçu and the ‘Vineyard Train’ in
Serra Gaúcha, wine-production
region, near Bento Gonçalves.
SAFeTY AND SeCUrITY
Brazil is a politically stable
democracy with no ethnic, religious
or cultural conflicts, without any
natural enemies or terrorist
activities. Tourists have to take the
same precautions that are required
in London, Paris, New York or
elsewhere when travelling in large
cities in Brazil.
SmOKING
Brazil has adopted the smoke-free
law for all workplace and public
spaces. There are specifically
designated smoking areas, which
some of the states have also banned.
Fines are applied for those that do
not abide by the law.
TAXIS
Taxis in Brazil are good value for
money and easy to find in all of the
largest cities. As not all taxi drivers
speak English, it is advisable to have
the address in writing.
TeLePhONeS
Public telephones can be easily
found all over Brazil and do not take
coins. You must buy a phone card.
TIme ZONeS
There are three time zones in Brazil,
but most of the country follows the
standard time zone of the capital,
Brasília, three hours behind GMT.
TIPPING
Nearly all hotels and restaurants adda 10% service charge to the bill,
which must be clearly stated.
Brazilians do not tip taxi drivers but
often round the total up.
VISAS AND DOCUmeNTS
Certain countries need visas,
passports must be valid for at leastsix months and a return ticket and
proof of sufficient funds may be
requested on arrival. Visitors will be
admitted for a stay of up to 90 days
which can be extended, at the
discretion of the Federal Police
(Immigration Authority), for a
further 90 days. Visitors are not
permitted to work. Visitors with
business or work interests will need
visas. For more details consult your
nearest Consulate General of Brazil.
WeATher
There are five climatic regions in
Brazil: equatorial, tropical, semi-
arid, highland tropical and
subtropical. São Paulo, Brasília and
Belo Horizonte have milder climates
averaging 19°C (66°F) whilst Rio de
Janeiro, Recife, Natal and Salvador
have an average temperature of
around 26°C (80°F) that go up to
high 30s or low 40s (over 100°F)
during the summer months. Porto
Alegre and Curitiba have subtropical
climate with hot summers and cold
winters with frosts in June-August.
The Amazon and the northeast has
very small seasonal variation
between the warmest and the
coldest months.
PUBLIC hOLIDAYS (2011)
1 January - New Year’s Day
4-9 March – Carnaval (variable, on
Ash Wednesday – holiday until
midday)
22 April - Good Friday (variable)
21 April - Tiradentes Day
1 May - Labour Day
23 June - Corpus Christi (variable)
7 September – National
Independence Day
12 October - Our Lady of Aparecida
1 November – All Saints Day
2 November - All Souls Day
25 December – Christmas
As well as the national public
holidays listed above, states and
cities also have their own separate
holidays. For example, 20 January,
is a holiday in the city of Rio de
Janeiro, and 25 January and 9 July
are holidays in the city of São
Paulo.
emergency numbers;
Police: 190; Firefighters and
medical emergencies: 193
FURTHER DETAILS ON
TOURISM IN BRAZIL:
www.brasilnetwork.tur.br
48
Acrewww.acre.ac.gov.br
www.turismo.al.gov.br
www.visitealagoas.com.br
maceió Convention & Visitor Bureau
www.maceioconvention.com.br
Amapá[email protected]
www.setur.ap.gov.br
Amapá Convention & Visitor Bureau
www.amazonastur.am.gov.br
Amazonas Convention & Visitor Bureau
www.amazonasconvention.com.br
www.setur.ba.gov.br
www.bahia.com.br
www.bahiatursa.ba.gov.br/site
Salvador da Bahia Convention & Visitor
Bureau
www.salvadorconvention.com.br
Ceará[email protected]
www.turismo.setur.ce.gov.br
www.cearabrasil.tur.br
Fortaleza Convention & Visitor Bureau
www.fortalezaconvention.com.br
Distrito Federalwww.brasiliatur.df.gov.br
Brasília Convention & Visitor Bureau
www.brasiliaconvention.com.br
espírito [email protected]
www.es.gov.br
espírito Santo Convention & Visitor Bureau
www.esconvention.com.br
Goiáswww.goiasbrasil.tur.br
www.agetur.go.gov.br/municip.htm
maranhã[email protected]
www.turismo.ma.gov.br
São Luis Convention & Visitor Bureau
www.saoluisconvention.com.br
mato [email protected]
www.sedtur.mt.gov.br
Pantanal Convention & Visitor Bureau (Cuiabá)
mato Grosso do [email protected]
www.seprotur.ms.gov.br
Fundação de Turismo do mato Grosso do Sul
www.turismo.ms.gov.br
minas [email protected]
www.descubraminas.com.br
minas Gerais Convention & Visitor Bureaux
Federation
www.paratur.pa.gov.br
Belém Convention & Visitor Bureau
www.belemcvb.com.br
Paraí[email protected]
www.setde.pb.gov.br
www.pbtur.pb.gov.br
Tourist Boards, Convention & Visitor Bureaux
Sugar Loaf, rio deJaneiro
49
João Pessoa Convention & Visitor Bureau
www.joaopessoaconvention.com.br
Paraná[email protected]
www.setu.pr.gov.br
www.turismo.pr.gov.br
Curitiba Convention Visitor Bureau
www.curitibacvb.com.br
Pernambucowww2.setur.pe.gov.br/web/setur/home
emPeTUr – empresa de Turismo de
Pernambuco S/A (Autarquia)
www.empetur.com.br
recife Convention & Visitor Bureau
www.recifecvb.com.br
www.destinopernambuco.com.br
Piauí[email protected]
www.piemtur.pi.gov.br
Teresina Convention & Visitor Bureau
www.teresinaconvention.com.br
rio de [email protected]
www.turisrio.rj.gov.br
rio Convention & Visitor Bureau
www.rcvb.com.br
rio Grande do [email protected]
www.setur.rn.gov.br
emPrOTUr – empresa Potiguar de
Promoção Turística S/A
www.setur.rn.gov.br
Natal Convention & Visitor Bureau
www.natalconventionbureau.com.b
rio Grande do [email protected]
www.turismo.rs.gov.br
Porto Alegre Convention & Visitor Bureau
www.visiteportoalegre.com
rondô[email protected]
www.setur.ro.gov.br
rondônia Convention & Visitor Bureau
www.seplan.rr.gov.br
Santa [email protected]
www.sc.gov.br
Santa Catarina Turismo S/A – SANTUr
www.sc.gov.br/santur
Florianópolis e região Convention & Visitor
Bureau
www.florianopoliscvb.com.br
São Paulowww.selt.sp.gov.br
São Paulo Convention & Visitor Bureau
www.visitesaopaulo.com
Sergipewww.sedetec.se.gov.br
www.turismosergipe.net
emSeTUr – empresa Segipana de Turismo
www.emsetur.se.gov.br
Aracaju Convention & Visitor Bureau
www.aracajuconvention.com.br
www.to.gov.br
50
Facts and figures
Porto Alegre
Goiás
Mato GrossoBahia
La Paz
Foz do IguaçuCuritiba
Boa Vista
Rio Grande do Norte
Cayenne
Georgetown
MontevideoBuenos Aires
Asunción
Santiago
Paramaribo
Manaus
Macapá
BelémSâo Luís
Teresina
Cuiabá
Salvador
Aracaju
Maceió
Recife
João Pessoa
Goiânia
Belo Horizonte
São Paulo
Florianópolis
Rio Branco
Campo Grande
Palmas
Vitória
Rio de Janeiro
Porto Velho
FortalezaFernando de Noronha
Brasília
Colombia
Venezuela
Paraguay
Argentina
GuyanaSurinam
Chile
Uruguay
French Guiana
Peru
Bolivia
Amazon
Amazon
Negro
Ucayali
Para
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Para
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Grande
Sâo Fra
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Arag
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Tocantins
Para
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A t l a n t i c O c e a n
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Rio Grande do Sul
Santa Catarina
Paraná
Mato Grosso do Sul
São Paulo
Espírito Santo
Rio de Janeiro
Minas Gerais
Rondônia
Acre
Amazonas Pará
Tocantins
Sergipe
Alagoas
Pernambuco
Paraíba
Ceara
Piauí
Maranhão
AmapáRoraima
Natal
25
25 50
B R A Z I LInternational
National capital
State capital State
750km
Official name: Federative Republic of Brazil
Capital: Brasília
Largest cities: São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Salvador, Brasília, Fortaleza,Belo Horizonte, Curitiba, Manaus, Recife, Belém, Porto Alegre.
States: 26 + Federal District
Area: 8,511,965 sq km
Coastline: 7,491 km
highest point: Pico da Neblina 3,014 m
Population: 190,732,694 (2010)
Language: Portuguese
religions: Roman Catholic 74%, Protestant 15%, Spiritualist 2%, other 9%
GDP: US$ 1.57 trillion (IMF/2009)
GDP in purchasing-power parity (PPP): US$ 2.01 trillion (IMF/2009)
maragogi, Alagoas
Canoa Quebrada, Ceará
Foz do Iguaçu, Paraná
Arraial do Cabo, rio de Janeiro
