Photo Credit: Nico Kaiser

From its wondrous natural landscapes to its colonial architecture, Brazil is a destination swarming with attractions. The rainforest is the world’s largest remaining untouched ecosystem. It is also home to the most expansive river system in the world, the Amazon Basin. Throw in some spectacular waterfalls, awesome beaches, renowned historical structures, and modern splendors, and Brazil ranks among the world’s richest countries in terms of phenomenal tourist sites.

Christ the Redeemer

Standing 700 meters above the chaotic streets of Rio, Brazil’s and South America’s most outstanding landmark is the large statue of Jesus Christ overlooking the city. Known as Christ the Redeemer (Cristo Redentor), this 38-meter tall behemoth sits atop Corcovado Mountain, providing spectacular views of Brazil’s most popular city. The icon was built in 1931, using an Art Deco style of architecture, and quickly became a national symbol for Brazil. It was even named as one of the seven new wonders of the world. Address: Corcovado Mountain, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil Phone: n/a Website: n/a

Copacabana Beach

One of the world’s most famous beaches, Rio de Janeiro’s Copacabana Beach is lined with hotels, shops, palms, and crowds of people every day of the year. The four-kilometer stretch of sand is fringed by palm trees and a paved boardwalk, which have become immortalized in pop culture. A place to see and be seen, each year large concerts are held at Copacabana, and during the 2016 Olympics, the beach is sure to be one of the busiest sites. Address: Avenida Atlantica, Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil Phone: n/a Website: n/a

Iguacu Falls

Boasting 275 different falls altogether, Iguacu Falls is an area of immense beauty. Located close to the Argentine border, these massive cascades are part of the Iguazu River system and the closest town to this site is Foz do Iguazu. The entire national park has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site to preserve the region for years to come. There is a sightseeing platform and complex on the Brazilian side of the falls, giving tourists outstanding views of the cascading water. Address: Iguaçu National Park, Parana, Brazil Phone: +55-45-2102-7000 Website: n/a

National History Museum

Established in 1818 by then Portuguese king, Dom Joao VI, the National History Museum is a must visit for all visitors to Brazil. Located in Rio de Janeiro, the museum is housed within the former palace of the Portuguese King and Emperor of Brazil. Filled with extravagant collections about Brazil’s natural and colonially-influenced past, the old palace itself is a structure of beauty too. Address: Praça Marechal Âncora, Centro - Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 20021-200, Brazil Phone: +55-21-2550-9220 Website: http://www.museuhistoriconacional.com.br/ingles/in...

Sugar Loaf Mountain

Located just outside the city of Rio de Janeiro, the granite and quartz monolith of Sugarloaf Mountain is among Brazil’s finest lookout points. Reach the peak to experience an unbelievably stunning view of the Atlantic Ocean and downtown. The journey is provided via a 1,400 meter cable car, which takes about 20 minutes to get to the top. Address: Avenida Pasteur, 520 - Urca, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 22290-240, Brazil Phone: +55 21 2546-8400 Website: http://www.bondinho.com.br/

Pantanal National Park

Spanning across much of the Brazilian state of Mato Grasso do Sul, the beautiful Pantanal wetlands are teeming with natural wildlife. The national park is a designated section in the northeastern corner featuring preservation processes. More than 1000 bird species call the park their home, as well as many other unique South American fauna, including the giant anteater, hyacinth macaws, jaguars, maned wolves and caimans. Address: Pantanal, Mato Grosso, Brazil Phone: n/a Website: http://www.pantanal.org/Mainpant.htm

Poco Encantado

Located within Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park, the stunning cave formations of Poço Encantado are without rivals. Visitors flock to enjoy the picturesque masterpiece of Mother Nature. Rain falls into the foot of the cave, creating a crystal clear rock pool perfect for swimming. The water may be a little cold at first, but put on your brave face. Those who have experienced it say the water is so clear it is like swimming in thin air. Address: Avenida Dr Inocêncio Monteiro Souza, 380 Itaeté, Brazil Phone: +55 75 3320-2118 Website: n/a

Lençóis Maranhenses National Park

Upon first glance, the sprawling dunes of this park may not look like much, but it becomes incredibly beautiful following the rainy season. Pools of crystal water form in abundance throughout the sandy landscape, and are best visited between the months of July and September. Swimming within these lagoons is possible, but tourists will not be alone. Schools of fish thrive here too, which is quite amazing considering that much of the water evaporates during the dry season. Address: Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, Bahia, Maranhão State, Brazil Phone: n/a Website: n/a

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