Top five attractions
Christ the Redeemer
One of the world’s most famous landmarks, the Christ the Redeemer statue overlooking Rio de Janeiro sits atop the Corcovado mountain and is undoubtedly the most iconic sight in South America. No visit to Rio could be complete without ticking this beauty off your list.
River Amazon
Snaking through South America for 4,000 miles, the planet’s second-longest river remains one of the world’s great tourist attractions. Much of this incredible waterway remains shrouded in mystery as well as rainforest, but you can get to know it better through jungle tours and overnight expeditions.
Iguazu Falls
Forming part of the border between Brazil and Argentina, the Iguazu Falls are a series of 275 waterfalls stepping along the River Iguazu. The most widely visited is the mightily impressive ‘Devil’s Throat’ – a powerful basin with a heart-pounding 270ft pile of cascading water.
Salvador
If beaches are your thing, head to the state of Bahia – some 900 miles north of Rio. The state capital is the attractive city of Salvador, from where you can access some of the most diverse and stunning beaches to be found anywhere in the world.
Teatro Amazonas
In Manaus, you will find one of the most charming opera houses that you are ever likely to behold – the Teatro Amazonas (Amazon Theatre). This late 18th-century building was created with no expense spared during the height of the rubber trade and is adorned with Parisian furniture, Italian marble, Mexican ceramics, and even British steelwork.
