GB
US
Brazil
Brazil is the largest country in South America. It is a richly diverse country, in terms of its people, culture, and landscapes. You'll find bustling cities, laid-back beaches, and traditional lifestyles often right next to each other. Brazilian culture, which varies substantially across the country, comes from an international mix of European colonisers, African and Asian communities, and indigenous influence throughout the country.
Brazil was inhabited by numerous tribal nations prior to the landing in 1500 of explorer Pedro Álvares Cabral, who claimed the area for the Portuguese Empire. Brazil remained a Portuguese colony until 1808, when the capital of the empire was transferred from Lisbon to Rio de Janeiro. In 1815, the colony became a kingdom upon the formation of the United Kingdom of Portugal, Brazil and the Algarves. In 1822, Brazil achieved independence, with the creation of the Empire of Brazil. The country became a presidential republic in 1889. Brazil's current constitution, formulated in 1988, defines it as a democratic federal republic.
Brazil has a total of 20 heritage sites listed by UNESCO. 13 of them are cultural, and 7 are natural sites. These include ancient cities, and forest reserves, such as the Atlantic Forest South-East Reserves which is important for its biodiversity that is unique and rare. The country is home to the world’s largest protected Amazon biome which houses the most significant biodiversity of flora and fauna.
Upcoming Departures
Visa:
UK: Not required. However, you will need to be able to demonstrate that you have enough money for the duration of your stay and provide details of your accommodation and evidence of return or onward travel. Make sure your passport is stamped. If it is not, you may be fined on departure.
USA: Not required, as of June 2019.
Currency:
Brazilian Real.
Packing advice:
From the west coast to the east, the weather in Brazil can vary depending on the season. Brazil is the largest country in South America. It has four time zones and five distinct climatic zones. In general, the country is casual and comfortable. Summer (December – March) is the hot season, with temperatures commonly in the high 30s, even pushing to the low 40s! It’s hot and humid, but there will be rainfall quite a few times. The autumn weather (March – June) is similar to the weather in spring, but towards June the days get chillier, with temperatures varying between 20 and 27 degrees celsius during the day. During the night, it can drop to 15 degrees celsius.
Cultural differences:
Brazil is predominantly a Roman Catholic country with an estimated 65% of the population affiliated with the religion. Catholicism’s beliefs and practices tend to vary throughout this vast country particularly in rural areas where the Saints of the Church are honoured with a vow of pilgrimage. Brazilian people are open and friendly. They often use hand gestures in communication and are not put off by touch. It is not uncommon for women and children to link arms when walking, and men may use both hands to shake hands to add warmth and sincerity to their greeting. Personal space is not the taboo it is in some countries and Brazilian people tend not to be uncomfortable when in close proximity with others.
Language:
Portuguese.
Tipping:
The standard tip for waiters in restaurants is 10% and is often included in the bill. In bars, the bill may not include a tip and 10% is customary for good service. Andante Travels will take care of gratuities to restaurant staff, local guides and drivers.
