Brazil is a truly vast country. It borders all but 2 of the countries in South America and has a variety and diversity of wildlife which is unequalled almost anywhere else in the world. Originally a Portuguese colony, modern day Brazil has a very clear national identity and is now famed for its flamboyant carnivals, glorious sandy beaches and of course abundant wildlife. Ask most people about Brazil and the first thing they think of is the Amazon River . This mighty river cuts its way through great swathes of primary rainforest and is home to literally 1000's of species of birds and mammals. Travel south and you swap the dense jungle for the open flood plains of the Pantanal where you find Greater Anteater, Anaconda and a plethora of colourful birds. To the south are the amazing Iguazu Falls - if that is not enough there is always the option of relaxing on a long sandy beach with just a few dolphins for company!
» THE AMAZON JUNGLE
Most of the country is within the tropical zone, more than 60 percent of the population live in areas where altitude, sea winds, or cold polar fronts moderate the temperature. There are five climatic regions in Brazil: equatorial, tropical, semi arid, highland tropical, and subtropical. Environment in Brazil is hot and humid during the whole year and it is divided into two seasons - summer and winter. It is considered to be summer between July and November, when it rains less and it is hotter. During winter it rains more and the water level in rivers and the landscape increase. The flooded land reaches the highest levels between March and April and the lowest between August and October. The temperature varies between 20° and 30°C in average during the year, and the relative humidity vary between 80% and 90%. Amazon Jungle is very large. The basin of the Amazon River is the largest in the world. To see the Amazon Jungle we flew into Manaus, Brazil which is located in the Southern Hemisphere three degrees south of the equator. It is on the Negro River about ten miles (16 km) up river from where the Negro and Amazon Rivers meet. You might have heard of Manaus because of its famous nineteenth century opera house.The Negro River is one of the most important tributaries of the Amazon River. Our ultimate destination was a special tree top hotel located about thirty-five miles (56 km) up the river form Manaus. This is near the Anavilhanas Archipelago which consists of 380 islands and is the largest fresh water archipelago in the world. Because the waters have high acidity there are no mosquitoes in the surrounding area, which makes it very nice for area tours. The Amazon fauna includes 250 types of mammals, 1,500 species of fish, and 1800 species of birds. There are exotic flora.
» IGUASSU FALLS
Iguassu Falls, Iguassu are the widest in the world, There are a total of 275 falls, forming a gigantic semi-circle 8,100 feet long, with millions of gallons of thundering water plunging to depths 250 feet below. The semi-circular falls bring together both the Iguassu and Parana Rivers, as well as Brazil and Argentina. Argentina claims the majority of the falls on her territory. However, the view from the Brazilian side is far superior. The infinite wonders of Iguassu cannot be described in words. The falls are surrounded by a National Park containing the world's largest pluvial forest, home to 12 species of amphibians, 18 species of fish, 40 species of mammals, including the jaguar, ocelot, capybara and giant river otter, 60 different reptiles, 340 bird species, and 700 unique species of fluttering butterflies! Many of these species can be discovered in the Bird Park and on excursions within the park, such as the Macuco Safari where you will be led on a short hike and a ride nearly under the falls in a small boat. To alter your point of reference, helicopter rides are another exciting option. The Iguassu National Park was awarded World Natural Heritage status by UNESCO in 1986. A new project is currently being developed by the park administration which will facilitate adventure sports such as hiking, rafting, canyoning, canoeing, boia-cross, and camping. Adding to the magic, brilliant rainbows often frame the falls.
