Brazil

Brazil is located in the northeast of the South American continent and covers almost half of it, which makes it close to as big as the United States. The countryside is highly exciting as stunningly diverse:

 the Amazon Rainforest, highlands in the north, savannah in the middle, and mountains in the south. The majority of the population lives close to the Atlantic where the big cities like São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and Salvador are located.

Seeing all the big tourist sights seems unmanageable considering the sheer size of a country. A car is absolutely essential if you want to see as much as possible in a short period of time. Tourist infrastructure has not yet reached optimum levels, but this has a positive side as well: authenticity.
The major natural destination is of course the Amazon Rainforest. Pictures and films are already unbelievably stunning, but when you’re actually there it takes your breath away. This is the largest tropical rainforest in the world and it has a higher species diversity than any other place on earth and new ones are discovered almost every day.

Further south on the eastern border to Argentina you should visit the Iguazu Falls, making Niagara Falls look sad and tiny.

As compelling as the Brazilian countryside is, do not forget to check out the cities as well. 
Rio de Janeiro is one of the greatest cities on earth, framed by mountains, forests, beaches, and lagoons. The number one landmark is the famous statue of Christ on Mount Corcovado. It won’t be long before you will be infected with the enchanting flair of the city which never ceases to fascinate, even outside the turbulent Carnival season.

Another great city, the biggest in Brazil, is São Paulo, the economic engine of the country. This modern metropolis has developed a vivid cultural program, though most of the social life takes place on the beach.

The capital Brasília, located further inland with a population of 2.4m, is tiny compared to São Paulo with over 11m citizens, yet it has a great buzz and plenty of leisure activities, most of which revolve around the artificial Lake Paraná. Other noteworthy cities are Maranhão, Piauí, and Maceió in the northeast, all of which are great examples of South American colonial style.

Planning a trip to all of these sights takes three things: plenty of time, thorough preparation, and a reliable car. If you have this covered, you will spend a few unforgettable weeks surrounded by stunning scenery and fascinating culture.