Brazil Nature and Wildlife
The varied biodiversity that exists within Brazil’s borders has been called the greatest collection of plant and animal species found on the planet. Brazil is home to 60% of the Amazon Rainforest which hosts approximately one-tenth of all the species in the world. As such, the landscapes of Brazil have the most known species of plants (estimated at 55,000), the most species of freshwater fish (estimated at 3,000) and the most mammal species (estimated at over 689).
Brazil is a popular birding destination and a multitude of birds can be found throughout the country. There are dozens of parrot species, the most common and well-known being the macaw. The country also hosts around forty species of birds of prey which include eagles, hawks, falcons and more. The smallest birds in Brazil are hummingbirds and there are several different kinds spread across the country while the largest bird is the flightless rhea which grows to 1.4m tall, with some weighing upwards of 30 kg.
Brazil’s coast and rivers provide habitats for a wealth of marine species. The rivers of the Amazon Basin are home to the pink dolphin, one of five freshwater cetaceans. These interesting creatures are only found in the Amazon and Orinoco Rivers and their tributaries. The grey dolphin also occupies Brazil’s rivers while the Fernando de Noronha archipelago is a good spot for viewing spinner dolphins. Also off the coast of Brazil are whale species including southern right whales and humpback whales. Sea turtles are protected in Brazil as five of the seven species found in the world live there.
As mentioned, over 689 mammal species inhabit the country. They include felines like jaguars, pumas, margay and the oncilla. Approximately 80 of the world’s 300 primate species can be found in and around Brazil, many of which are unique to the country. The most common primate is the squirrel monkey, however, other common species are howler monkeys, spider monkeys and capuchin monkeys. Other mammals found in Brazil are the giant anteater, armadillos, various types of sloths, river otters and more.
Despite hosting such a large variety of nature and wildlife, many of Brazil’s species are under constant threat. A staggering one-fifth of the Amazon Rainforest has been destroyed and nearly 93% of the Atlantic Forest has been cleared. Over seventy mammals are considered threatened or endangered. In order to protect the country’s natural landscapes, the first national park in Brazil, Itatiaia National Park, was created in 1937. As of 2012, there were 68 national parks that cover more than 2 million square kilometres, roughly 25% of Brazil’s national territory.
Brazil Travel Information
At Goway we believe that a well-informed traveller is a safer traveller. With this in mind, we have compiled an easy-to-navigate travel information section dedicated to Brazil.
Learn about the history and culture of Brazil, the must-try food and drink, and what to pack in your suitcase. Read about Brazil's nature and wildlife, weather and geography, along with 'Country Quickfacts' compiled by our travel experts. Our globetrotting tips, as well as our visa and health information, will help ensure you're properly prepared for a safe and enjoyable trip. The only way you could possibly learn more is by embarking on your journey and discovering Brazil for yourself. Start exploring… book one of our Brazil tours today!
Extend Your Trip
After your Brazil tours, why not consider another of Goway's Latin America tours? These include a large selection of other exciting countries in Central and South America. We offer Chile vacation packages and Easter Island tours, Ecuador vacation packages which include Galapagos cruises and Peru vacation packages which include Machu Picchu tours among many others.
Book your Brazil tour with Goway!
LATIN AMERICA by Goway is an exclusive division that specializes in planning and organizing Brazil tours, vacations and experiences. Choose from a simple city stopover, see the country highlights on one of our classic itineraries, enjoy a small group tour, a Holiday of a Lifetime and much more. We want to be your first choice when next you go globetrotting to Brazil.
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