Cruise Holidays Brazil: Two Distinctly Different Experiences
The South American country of Brazil has always been an exciting
destination for those who enjoy world travel. The largest and
most populous country in South America and the fifth largest in the
world in terms of area and population, Brazil is a country of
contrasts. That’s what makes cruise holidays in Brazil so
exciting. Visit Brazil’s coast and you’ll find stunning beaches like the ones at Rio de Janeiro or other coastal towns. Head to the interior and you can explore the rugged Amazon River valley with its rainforests, exotic animals, and much more. From the deck of a ship, you can explore either of these regions, each appealing to a different kind of traveler seeking a unique holiday experience.
Ocean Cruise Holidays Brazil
Among the major cruise lines, cruises to South America are quite popular and most (if not all) of them include stops in Brazil.Rio de Janeiro, best known simply as “Rio”, is often a port of departure. That means cruise passengers can take time to explore this vibrant city both before and after their voyage. With the Andes Mountains as a backdrop, the beaches here are spectacular and full of youthful exuberance. Head to the city’s most famous beaches, such as Ipanema and Copacabana, for some excellent people watching. Arrive during Carnaval and you’ll be treated to the biggest party you’ve ever seen!
Other cruises leave from Sao Paulo, Brazil’s beautiful capital city. More than 550 years old, Sao Paulo is not only the largest port in Latin America but it’s also the commercial and cultural center of Brazil.
If you’re lucky enough to make a stop at Ilhabela, you can view the 2.5 mile wide, 250-foot-tall Iguazu Falls. Spectacular! In the pretty gold rush town of Parati, you’ll find cobblestone walkways and magnificent Baroque churches, while in the ancient fishing village of Porto Belo, you can see the beautiful Emerald Coast and hike to the site of historic rock carvings.
Some cruise holidays in Brazil also include time spent at Angra Dos Reis, a set of 365 small, separate islands. From here, visitors can enjoy Brazil’s so-called Green Coast and experience the fabulous Brazilian jungle.
River Cruise Holidays in Brazil
If you really want to see the rugged side of Brazil, instead of embarking on an ocean liner voyage, why not consider a cruise of the Amazon River? Adventure travelers who yearn for a real taste of this fascinating country can board an “expedition ship” for a journey down one of the world’s most magnificent and diverse rivers.These ships can vary quite a bit, with some holding as few as 10-15 passengers (more akin to a riverboat) and others accommodating as many as a few hundred. Some have amenities such as swimming pools, restaurants, fitness centers, and ballrooms, while others offer just the basic comforts.
Regardless of the size, most of these river cruises focus on the rainforest and what’s inside, such as many of the amazing species of wildlife that can only be found in the Amazon region. These cruise holidays in Brazil are also culturally and environmentally sensitive, so there’s no need to worry about disturbing the fragile eco-system of this unique destination.
Most of these cruises down the Amazon are led by experienced guides that include naturalists, geologists, marine biologists, and historians, so guests can be sure that they’ll get the most from their trip, including accurate and interesting information about the region.