Cidade Maravilhosa - Marvelous City
Rio de Janeiro is located in the south-eastern corner of Brazil, just east of São Paulo. It's the most famous tourist destination in Brazil because of it's amazing beaches, historic monuments, and many other attractions such as Rio Carnival. To Rio's residents the city is known as "Cidade Maravilhosa," or "Marvelous City."
The major attractions that Rio de Janeiro offers, include: the Statue of Christ the Redeemer (Corcovado Mountain), Sugar Loaf Mountain, Maracana Stadium, Tijuca National Park, and Favela da Rocinha. Lesser know attractions include: Baia de Guanabara, bridge between Rio and Niteroi, and Parati. If tropical beaches are more your style, there are upwards of 72 beaches in Rio de Janeiro; some
of the more popular beaches are Ipanema, Copacabana, Leblon, and Barra da Tijuca. But, perhaps Brazil, and Rio, is best known for the Brazil Carnival. This huge 4 day Brazilian Carnival is celebrated annually during the month of February. The event includes dancing, music, costume, parades, parties, and more! The Carnival is celebrated in all Brazilian cities, but the major events are in Rio de Janeiro - the Rio Carnival is truly spectacular.
The best time to travel to Brazil is during the summer months, from November to April. During these summer months daytime temperatures average 40C (104F), and nighttime temperatures average 25C (77F). However, Brazil is a tropic country and visiting anytime of the year is appropriate. The coldest it gets in Rio de Janeiro during the winter is an average of about 15C (59F).
