Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Introducing Southeast Brazil
The four states of Rio de Janeiro, Espírito Santo,
Minas Gerais, and São Paulo constitute Brazil's
economic heartland. The giant metropolises - Rio de
Janeiro, Belo Horizonte, and São Paulo - burst with
energetic cultural life. Rio de Janeiro holds the greatest
attractions with its Carnaval and breathtaking mountains
and beaches. Beyond the urban hubs, nature and
rural life exist undisturbed. Wild islands lie a short
boat ride away. Inland, in the folds of the rugged
Minas hills, are colonial towns whose cobbled streets,
colorful Portuguese town houses, and ornate Baroque
churches remain little changed since imperial times.
"2!:),
3/54(%!34
"2!:),
Parque Nacional
Serra da Canastra
(see p133)
, one of the
protected areas
dotting the region,
preserves pristine
rainforest and
cerrado
, as well
as rich fauna.
SÃO PAULO STATE
(see pp160-71)
São Paulo City
(see pp134-59)
,
the capital of São Paulo state, is
relentlessly urban and frenetic,
but has Brazil's best restaurants,
shops, and nightlife.
SÃO PAULO CITY
(see pp134-59)
São Paulo's coast
(see
pp164-71)
, stretching across 250
miles (400 km), features beaches
and islands that serve as the
weekend playground for the city.
Rio de Janeiro at sunset, with a view of the Botofogo Bay and the dazzling Sugar Loaf mountain
