GENERAL INFORMATION
GENERAL INFORMATION
BRAZIL
Brazil is a land which, according to a popular saying: “was blessed by God and is naturally beautiful”. A visit to Brazil means the unexpected discovery of a place of warm tropical sun and 5000 miles of white-sand beaches, of coconut groves and mango trees, of music and dance, of baroque colonial towns and villages, plus impressive cities of 21st century opulence and sophistication. Brazil´s allure is not only in the climate, the landscapes and the architecture, it lies in the people themselves, whose sense of cordial hospitality and friendship create the perfect environment for your special interest travel.
CENTRAL WEST REGION
PANTANAL NORTH
Along with the Amazon Basin, the Pantanal is one of the last virgin areas on the face of earth. A huge lowland plain, it is entirely overgrown by luxuriant vegetation dotted by thousands of rainbow colored flowers which bloom during the rainy season (Dec to March). It shelters innumerable rivers and crystal-clear lakes. Along their shores are rare species of animals such as jaguars, peccaries, bobcats, wild boars, Gray Teals, pigeons, partridges and herons who live in total and undisturbed freedom. No experience is more rewarding than a “safari” into this privileged wilderness to photograph the countless birds and animals silhouetted against the brilliant backdrop of foliage and blue skies. In the Pantanal the visitor will find an area of 77,220 square miles (nearly equal the size to West Germany) where life pulsates and nature, untouched by the hand of man.
PANTANAL SOUTH
South Pantanal is a massive nature reserve of around 140,000 square kilometers in Mato Grosso do Sul state. It is largely composed of swamp terrain and contains an abundance of wildlife. The region is home to about 650 species of birds, 240 species of fish, 50 species of reptiles and 80 species of mammals. Some of the animals found in Pantanal are marsh deer (Blastocerus dichotomus), giant otter (Pteronura brasiliensis), jabirus stork (Jabiru mycteria) and the endangered jaguar (Panthera onca). Horseback riding is the major transportation used by locals and a popular tourist activity.
CUIBA
Cuiaba, capital of the state of Mato Grosso was founded on the discovery of gold in the region by bandeirantes in the beginning of the 18th century. Since then, the city has maintained its narrow streets, which can be seen from the oldest part of the city center. The city is a mandatory stop for those going to visit the natural beauties of Mato Grosso, such as the Chapada dos Guimarães National Park and the North of Pantanal. A good option is to visit Águas Quentes, which has an aquatic park containing natural thermal water and a vast forest reserve. The city has great restaurants of typical food of the Pantanal. The history, culture and environment of the Mato Grosso state can be seen in the Natural History and Anthropology History Museum and in the Rondon Museum, dedicated to the indigenous tribes on the region. Authentic indigenous craftwork, adornment, arc and arrow and ceramics objects can be purchased at Artíndia, shop of the federal institution Funai (Fundação Nacional do Índio – National Foundation of the Indian).
BRAZILIA
Brasília, capital city of Brazil, is located in the central region of the country. It is a planned city with unique and modern architecture, designed by world famous architects Lucio Costa and Oscar Niemeyer. This UNESCO World Heritage Site city was constructed to bring the capital away from the Brazilian coast. Brasília has a number of excellent hotels and restaurants that allow guests to fully enjoy their time in the city.
