Brazil offers an outstanding variety of natural and cultural wonders. It is the largest country in the tropics and the only limit to a journey is imagination (and/or budget). The scene is set with unspoiled islands such as Ilha Grande where pristine sands front emerald seas and historical colonial towns are idyllic. On the urban side of things there is also much to see; Brasilia is the inlands capital and boasts futuristic buildings and bustling nightlife. There is also the historic and colourful Salvador and, of course, the sassy and spectacular Rio de Janeiro.

For those who come for Carnaval, music is a huge part of the Brazilian experience. Discover the perfect beat your own way, whether it be dancing with Cariocas at Rio’s ambient samba clubs to the shared drumbeats on the streets of Salvador. Given the riches of Brazil, it’s no surprise it is a popular tourist destination. From the vast rain forests to the music-fuelled cities, Brazil is hard to turn away from.

Population: 190 million
Capital: Brasília
Languages: Portuguese
Currency: Real (R); AU$1 = R1.6
Religion: Roman Catholic
Neighbours: Venezuela, Guyana, Suriname, Columbia, Bolivia, Peru, Argentina, and Paraguay
Area: 8, 515, 000 sq km
Time: UTC – 2 (UTC – 4 in Summer)
Seasons: Cold – March to November, Hot – December to February
Visas: All visitors require a visa
Warnings: North-east Brazil is recovering from recent flooding