Brazil is probably the best known South American destination. Like everyone else on the continent they are obsessed with soccer and their national team is the best in the world (with all due apologies to any Argentine fans reading this).

Brasil is so vast that there are a few entry points for international flights. The main ones being Rio de Janerio and Sao Paolo. There are no direct flights into Brasil from Australia. Aerolineas Argentina (via Auckland/ Buenos Aires), United Airlines (via Los Angeles) and Lan Chile via Auckland and Santiago are the most common..

The currency is the Brazilian Real (Approximately 1.68 BRL to 1 Australian Dollar)

As the largest country in South America there is plenty to do in Brazil. All travellers visit Rio de Janerio (which incidentally is not the capital; thats Brasillia) and virtually all will take the railroad to the top of Corcovado mountain and enjoy one of the most beautiful views in the world from under the arms of the iconic Cristo Redentor (Christ the Redeemer) statue. And of course there is Cococabana beach one of the most famous in the world.

Rio is incredibly busy during its Carnivale. If you are planning to visit at that time you better book ahead. Almost as colourful, however, is the carnivale in Salvador da Bahia, with colonial era buildings and winding cobblestone streets. This UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts a staggering number of churches.

The second most popular Brazilian destination is Igussau Falls shared with Argentina - they are awesome and one of the world's must sees.

Manaus is the main gateway to the Amazon rainforest or you can journey to the mouth of the mighty Amazon with a visit to Belem, a thriving port city with an exquisite historical centre. Olinda is a colourful UNESCO World Heritage Site. Journey to the northern coastal cities of Natal and Fortaleza, a popular holiday resort and the starting point for a trip to Jericocoara.

Australian passport holders require a visa for Brazil which must be obtained prior to arrival. Many other nationalities are not required to do this so presumably Brazil is one of those countries that take offence at Australia requiring their citizens to obtain a visa to come here.

A 90 day visa costs around $90 and can be obtained from the embassy in Canberra:

Embassy of Brazil,
19 Forster Crescent,

Yarralumla,

ACT 2600
PH: 02-6273-2372

While in Brazil you can seek consular help from:

Australian Embassy,

Ses Quadra 801,

Conjunto K, Lote 7,

BRASILIA DF 70200-010

Tel: (+55 61) 226 3111 Fax: (+55 61) 226 1112

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