Rio de Janeiro, Brazil is probably the most popular city of this South American country. It is the second largest Brazilian city and made famous by its beautiful beaches and yearly carnival festivities.
The natural beauty of Rio de Janeiro is enhanced by its harbor, which will give you a breathtaking view of Sugar Loaf Mountain, the hills of Tijuca and Corcovado Peak.
Aside from its splendid geographical features, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil is also made popular by its active participation in world sporting events. This spectacular city in the South will be the venue of the 2014 FIFA World Cup games. Two years later or in 2016, sports aficionados are expected to visit Rio again, this time for the Summer Olympics and Paralympics, making it the first city in South America to host either the Winter or Summer Olympics.
One of the most popular attractions in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil is the statue of Jesus Christ with his arms raised. This is the famous statue of Christ the Redeemer and is one of the most visited attractions in the city.
The beaches of Rio are also popular destinations among tourists. The most frequented among these are Copacabana and Ipanema, but there are still other pristine shores that the visitors may enjoy. The beach culture is definitely one of the trademarks of Rio and probably what draws the most number of people.
If you want to experience a different kind of adventure in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, then hit the Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas located at the middle of the South Zone. This is a large and beautiful lagoon that will give you a nice view of Corcovado and Ipanema beaches. Aside from sight-seeing, you may also jog or ride a bicycle around the area or even skate or rent one of those paddle boats. Surely you and your companions will enjoy a relaxing afternoon in this great lagoon.
When traveling with kids, treat them to a tour of the Parque Lage, a small park that houses interesting plants and animals and some concrete structures that appear a bit strange, but will surely entertain the young and the young-at-heart.
For more nature adventures in Rio, visit the Jardim Botanico or the Botanical Garden. You will be surprised that it has a collection of plants from different parts of the world.
If you want the best of Brazil, then surely you must not miss Rio de Janeiro.