The largest city in the Brazilian state of Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande is situated in the Center-West region of the country. Nicknamed Cidade Morena because of the reddish-brown colour of the region's soil, the city is also known for its diversity of culture, its array of fascinating museums, and its picturesque city parks. The parks provide something for every kind of traveller, from enormous parks with motorbike trails and waterfalls to smaller well-maintained, idyllic family spots with kiosks and picnic spots. The town is home to the rich heritage of native Indians, Italians, Germans, Syrian-Lebanese, Japanese, Paraguayans, and Bolivians, among others. Several museums offer insight into these cultures, such as the Indigenous Culture Memorial, with exhibits of a tribal straw and bamboo village, workshops, and craft stalls.
Located in the Brazilian state of Mato Grosso do Sul, Southern Pantanal boasts a landscape scattered with bustling cities, picturesque cattle ranches and pristine landscape encompassing the largest tropical wetland area in South America. Visitors to the region can begin the Southern Pantanal experience at Corumba, the largest town in the Pantanal and the region’s historic hub, then drive along the unpaved road of Estrada Parque, a popular wildlife route that is home to capybara, jacare, giant anteaters, anacondas and a variety of birdlife. For a taste of local cowboy culture, visit the cattle ranches of Aquidauana and Miranda to discover the cattle rides, music, and traditional leatherwork of the pantaneiro cowboys, and explore the incredible landscapes while kayaking, canoeing and fishing on the rivers and exploring the Maracajú Plateau and Serra mountain ranges.
On the Costa Verde, surrounded by quiet beaches and peninsulas, beguiling Paraty is known for its exceptional colonial architecture. The historical district is a joy to explore, with cobblestone streets winding between whitewashed buildings and baroque churches. Cultural offerings are not limited to the historical, however – Paraty is home to many creative souls and entrepreneurs from around the world, whose restaurants, galleries, and shops give the town a cosmopolitan feel. Nature lovers will enjoy the nearby reserves, parks, and mountains that surround this enticing destination.
Vila do Abraao is a small, picturesque village in a bay on the northeastern coast of Brazil’s Ilha Grande Island. As the main town on the island, it provides the necessary shops and services among the otherwise quite stunningly untamed wilderness. The town’s palm-fringed, golden-sanded beach, and its surrounding 150 kilometres of trails through virgin Atlantic rainforest make it appeal to adventure-seekers. Hikers will see brightly coloured birds, howler monkeys, and stunning vegetation. From a historical perspective, Vila do Abraao has functioned as a pirate’s lair, leper colony and prison - all of which have now fallen away, leaving traces here and there. Meander the cobbled streets at night for a relaxed atmosphere, live music, and several buffet-style restaurants.
A dynamic coastal neighbourhood synonymous with leisure, luxury and nightlife, Copacabana is characterised by million-dollar penthouses, stunning neoclassical buildings and tiny apartments set against a magnificent backdrop of jungle-clad mountains in Rio de Janeiro. From its humble origins as a small fishing village, the "Princess of the Sea" is now a leisure seeker's paradise, bursting with restaurants, nightclubs, bars and hotels, and emits a lively, effervescent energy, perfect for the social traveller. To learn its history, visit Forte de Copacabana, a fort and museum that traces the early days of the Portuguese colony through to the mid-19th century. Art enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to The Eva Klabin Foundation (Casa Museu Eva Klabin), a historical home of famous art and antique collector Eva Klabin that houses over 1000 art pieces from all over the world. A visit to Copacabana is incomplete without the world-famous Copacabana Beach, a 4-kilometre stretch of golden sand dotted with brightly-coloured umbrellas, bars and a popular playground for watersports, football, volleyball, or simply lazing in the sun.
Situated in northeastern Brazil, the town of Sao Luis is separated into two areas by the waters of the Rio Anil. While several beautiful beaches and modern tourist attractions can be found on the northern side of the river, the town’s highlight – its historic centre – lies south of the Rio Anil. Encompassing numerous examples of finely preserved colonial Portuguese architecture, this World Heritage Site is particularly well known for its unusual tiled buildings. Sao Luis also boasts a rich culture; Afro-Brazilian influences can be found in the local cuisine, the reggae music scene and, most interesting of all, the Bumba Meu Boi traditions that are celebrated during the colourful local festivals.
Atins is located between the spectacular dunes of the Lencois Maranhenses and the Atlantic Ocean’s coastline. It is known for its peaceful atmosphere, laid-back energy and is one of the top kiteboarding destinations in the world. This secluded little town features sandy streets, endless dunes, palm-fringed beaches, and the calm waters of massive sheltered lagoons. Adventurers will enjoy the rustic, remote feel of the town as well as the chance to experience some of the best kitesurfing in the world. Atkins serves as an excellent base from which to explore the Lencois Maranhenses, where visitors can enjoy an array of adventure sports and excellent bird watching. Other popular activities include hiking, swimming, boating, and kiteboarding.
Situated in the northeastern Brazilian state of Piaui, the city of Parnaíba serves as an excellent stopover and base from which to explore the spectacular surrounding area. This city boasts a picturesque colonial city centre overlooking the Parnaiba river and offers a wide range of fun activities. Visit the beautiful Parnaíba Delta, which is interspersed with 73 river islands, lush vegetation, dunes, and wetlands; relax on the palm-tree-lined Pedra do Sal beach; and explore the beautiful Portinho Lagoon, an ideal spot for adventurous visitors to enjoy some thrilling watersports. Don’t miss the Porto das Barcas on the Rio Igaracu waterfront, which features 19th-century warehouses converted to restaurants, tour operators and craft shops.
Located along Brazil’s beautiful coastline, the town of Prea is set just 15 minutes from Jericoacoara. This small fishing village is known as one of the best kitesurfing destinations in northeast Brazil and the world. It boasts a tranquil atmosphere, an incredible 15-kilometre-long beach, and a collection of comfortable accommodation options for kite surfing enthusiasts an visitors. Sample local Brazillian cuisine at a variety of restaurants and cafes, or take kite surfing lessons and surf in the wild winds of the Brazillian coast. Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy a day trip to Jericoacoara, ideal for sightseeing, shopping or simply to enjoy a relaxed dinner in town.
