Brazil is the largest country in South America - spanning more than 8.5 million square kilometres - and one of the most culturally diverse and populous countries in the world. An eclectic mix of Portuguese, European, native Indian, African, Asian and Middle Eastern immigrants have lived in Brazil harmoniously for generations. Many are surprised to discover Sao Paulo has the largest Japanese community outside of Japan, while the highest concentration of Germans and Italians lives in the south at Rio Grande do Sul, Parana and Santa Catarina.
Brazil's heart and soul is unreservedly Rio de Janeiro, which annually hosts one of the world's biggest and most colourful parties - Carnaval. Further north, the city of Salvador, the capital of the state of Bahia, was once the country’s main arrival port for ships carrying slaves from Africa. Some of Brazil's most stunning beaches are in the northeast at Recife, Fortaleza and Natal.
The best way to see several cities is to purchase a Brazil Air Pass when you book flights to Brazil.