Brazil - Useful information for your trip

Brazil is located in South America, it is the 5^th largest country in the world. This is why it shows many diverse features in terms of morphology and climate. Its territory includes Guyana, formed by several plateus with some of the highest waterfalls in the world, such as Kaieteur Falls and Cuquenan Falls;  Brazil plateau, which occupies the southern part of the country and includes the main plateau and Mato Grosso; and the Amazon Basin, a big alluvial plain with lush vegetation, where the Amazon River flows.

The country is mainly characterized by tropical climate, which differs from region to region because of the big extension. In the North the temperatures are generally high during the whole year but also precipitation is abundant. In the southern coast winters are mild and the rainfalls are scarce. Extreme conditions can affect the plateaus. Here the weather has almost subtropical features, and in the Amazon rainforest there is a humid equatorial climate.

Brazilian population comes from different ethnic groups. The largest number of people descends from Indios, Africans and Portuguese colonists, others have European origins, and come from Italy, Germany and Spain. The local indigenous people have been able to resist the influences of the immigrants, therefore they have preserved their own autonomy in tradition and culture. Nowadays the indigenous live in tribes, some of them have never had contact with the main society.

Brazil is a country rich in natural beauties and amazing landscapes, it boasts a huge number of plant and animal species, as well as one of the most impressive waterfalls in the world and a major attraction of the area, Iguassu Falls. Moreover, it offers several attractions of cultural and artistic interest, its architecture seems to be influenced by the European taste of Baroque and Rococo, for example in Manaus. This country also owns strong local traditions, that allowed the development of particular musical genres and dances, or popular festivals, such as the Brazilian Carnivals, considered the most transgressive and important festivals of this type, and a rich cuisine. Other cities that should not be missed, in addition to Rio de Janeiro and Manaus, are also Salvador de Bahia, renowned for its beaches and culture of African influence, and São Paulo, considered the cultural capital of the country because of its prestigious institutions.