Brazil covers over half of the continent of South America and borders every country there except for Ecuador and Chile. Despite its vast territory, two thirds of its 170 million inhabitants live in the major cities on the Atlantic coastline, leaving a large part of its Amazon Rainforest interior relatively deserted. Brazil, with its friendly and welcoming people, has become something of a cultural melting pot, possibly due to the influences of its colonial past and its neighbouring countries.
The country is dominated by the Amazon Rainforest, and expeditions here will give you the opportunity to really explore this fascinating area of the country. Temperatures in the Amazon are consistently hot and humid, and although rain falls all year round and it is very heavy but generally short-lived!
Northern Brazil is a great destination for a team looking for a remote Amazon experience. Most travelling here will be done on boats, a great way to get in to the heart of the Amazon where indigenous Indian tribes still remain relatively untouched by modern society. Visiting the Amazon will be only part of your expedition as you also have the opportunity to complete a project and even some trekking in south Brazil before relaxing on the beach at the end of the expedition, so you really can get to experience the full diversity of experiences that Brazil can offer.
Some possible expedition objectives are given in the research aid, please note these may alter between now and your expedition. The Expedition Programme Manager for Brazil will agree a suitable expedition itinerary for you, to best match the abilities and aspirations of your team.
Acclimatisation / Short Treks (South Brazil)
Serra da Itatiaia National Park
A beautiful park between Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo made up of alpine meadows and rainforest, with numerous paths passing lakes, rivers and waterfalls. It is also possible to complete a main trek here.
Parque Nacional Da Serra Dos Orgaos
Serra dos Orgaos National Park contains over 118 sq km of mountainous terrain situated between Teresopolis and Petropolis. It is a mixture of rainforest and open grassland with numerous peaks ranging in height from 1500m to 2500m. Due to this it is regarded as the trekking and climbing capital of Brazil and is perfect for the more adventurous team.
Main Trekking phase
Amazon
Setting out from the busy jungle capital of Manaus, you have the opportunity to explore the unique Amazonian ecosystems from the river. Travelling by boat, which will be your ‘floating home’ during the main jungle phase, travel past the famous meeting of the waters and deeper into the Manuri area. Through the days you will be able to foray along the shores and small creeks in the motorised canoes in shorter trips from your main boat. Visit local indigenous tribes to see an entirely different way of life, working with the natural surroundings before setting off on a 4 day island trek. You will be sleeping in hammocks at night and by day will be learning jungle survival skills from the local guide.
Projects
Teams can participate in a number of different projects throughout Brazil that offer wonderful opportunities for cultural exchange. Projects range from working in schools, community centres and orphanages to environmental projects. Conservation projects are also possible. Most projects are in south Brazil
Rest and Relaxation
The team can choose to relax on one of the superb beaches that Brazil offers, such as Copacabana. There is a possible opportunity for dolphin watching in Manaus as well.
