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Country Information
Major Cities
Brazil has 26 states and 1 federal district.
Must-Visit Landmarks
Christ the Redeemer
Iconic 30-meter statue overlooking Rio from Corcovado mountain.
Ipanema Beach
Famous beach immortalized in the bossa nova song "The Girl from Ipanema".
Amazon Rainforest
60% of the world's largest rainforest is in Brazil, with incredible biodiversity.
Iguaçu Falls
Spectacular waterfalls on the border with Argentina, wider than Niagara.
Pelourinho
Historic center of Salvador with colorful colonial architecture.
Lençóis Maranhenses
Stunning national park with white sand dunes and seasonal rainwater lagoons.
Brief History of Brazil
Indigenous Peoples
Estimated 2,000 indigenous tribes inhabited Brazil before European arrival.
Portuguese Arrival
Pedro Álvares Cabral claims Brazil for Portugal on April 22.
Colonial Period
Sugar plantations, gold rush, and slavery (4 million Africans brought to Brazil).
Independence
Dom Pedro I declares independence on September 7, establishing the Empire of Brazil.
Republic
Military coup establishes the First Brazilian Republic.
Modern Brazil
Return to democracy, economic growth, and emergence as a global power.
Travel Tips for Visitors
Visa Requirements
Many nationalities can visit visa-free for 90 days. Check requirements before travel.
Currency & Payments
Brazilian Real (R$). Credit cards widely accepted, but carry cash for smaller establishments.
Transportation
Domestic flights connect major cities. Buses are comfortable for long distances. Metro in São Paulo and Rio.
Safety
Be vigilant in cities, avoid displaying valuables, use registered taxis, and follow local advice.
Best Times to Visit
Carnival Tips
Book accommodations 6+ months in advance for Carnival (Feb/Mar). Buy tickets early for samba parades. Stay hydrated!