Saving Sea Turtles in Brazil with Project Tamar

Brazil is home to tons of incredible and exotic wildlife from the flora and fauna of the vast Amazon jungle in the West to the sea creatures of its long Atlantic coastline over on the East coast. The North-East coast is an increasingly popular holiday destination due to its natural beauty comprised of pristine white sand beaches, lush green vegetation and clear blue waters.

In particular, one of the many native inhabitants that is often found in this area of the massive country is the magnificent sea turtle. There are five species of sea turtle found off the shores of Brazil and for a long time now their populations have been in decline. Thankfully, in the nineteen-eighties a wonderful initiative named Tamar-ICMBio was set up by the Brazilian Institute of the Environment and Renewable Natural Resources (IBAMA), with the sole purpose of protecting these beautiful and gentle creatures. Two years after its establishment in 1980, Tamar’s first research station was constructed to help monitor breeding grounds and sea turtle activity, which is a constant necessity in order to produce reliable findings.

Today, Project Tamar has twenty-two research stations along the beautiful and scenic Brazilian coastline, which are responsible for carrying out its main aims, including ensuring protection laws are being upheld. Alongside their research stations the project has now set up several visitors centres across the country that cater to the many curious tourists and indeed locals that are interested in the endangered animals. The national conservation program also educates local fishing communities as a means to prevent them damaging the turtles habitats and instead learn how alternative fishing techniques can protect these important ecosystems. By employing locals and supporting schools and nurseries from the villages surrounding the centres and research stations, Project Tamar aims to create long-term sustainability.

Plan a visit

You can visit Project Tamar in lively Florianopolis, a very short flight south of Rio de Janeiro, and enjoy a fun-filled island holiday, exploring the many beaches of the favoured Brazilian holiday hotspot. Florianopolis is made up of one stretch on the mainland and a large island connected by a bridge, the latter becoming especially popular with holiday-makers between October and March. Book with and us and stay at the impressive Boutique Hotel Quinta das Videiras – a brilliantly located hotel with fantastically arty interiors set close to the beaches and overlooking the lake ‘Lagoa da Conceicao’.

Alternatively, head to the laid back beach town of Praia da Forte in the North-East State of Bahia for less hustle and bustle and more sheer relaxation in a little piece of paradise. The sea here is teeming with marine life and ideal for snorkelling or swimming. For an extra special getaway we recommend staying at the Tivoli Eco Resort, which boasts stunning grounds and eight natural swimming pools. Spend an afternoon visiting the the sea turtles at Project Tamar’s visitor centre on the nearby main beach and follow it up with a visit to the local castle ruins.

Eco Tourism is experiencing a steady boom in Brazil. Plan the trip of a lifetime now and know that you are helping do a good thing for our planet by visiting a Project Tamar centre in one of the many spectacular locations. Find out more by asking one of our Travel Specialists – click here.

 

The Amazon Rainforest

Spanning over 2 million square miles, entering nine different countries and holding over half of the world’s remaining rainforest, the Amazon is the largest and most biodiverse rainforest on the planet. Stretching from its mouth at the Atlantic Ocean all the way to the Peruvian, Colombian and Bolivian borders, the area is best explored via a cruise along the length of the Amazon River. This is undoubtedly an unforgettable experience, and will surely be the highlight of your holiday to Brazil.

The Area 

The main gateway to the Amazon is the bustling city ofManaus. This is an ideal base for your exploration of the surrounding area, and a number of tour operators start their trips and cruises here. While this city is an experience in and of itself, the real treat lies deeper into the rainforest – either join one of the many Amazon River Cruises available or stay in a fantastic Eco Lodge in the heart of the rainforest canopy. The latter ranges from simple and rustic to luxurious and stylish, but each comes equipped with all the essentials for exploring.

Best Time To Go

The Amazon is famous for its weather – either very dry or very, very wet! The dry season lasts between July and November, with temperatures ranging between 26-40 degrees Celsius. Comparatively, the wet season is between December and June, with temperatures roughly between 23-30 degrees Celsius.

Highlights 

The Amazon is renowned for its spectacular wildlife, and amateur photographers and birdwatchers alike will certainly not be disappointed by the incredible diversity of species that inhabit the rainforest. An estimated 1 in 10 known species of animal inhabits the Amazon rainforest, making it the largest collection of living plants and animals anywhere in the world. This includes over 2 million insect species, 40,000 plant species and a further 1,000 bird species, which constitutes around 20% of all bird species on Earth. Certainly, then, this region is an unparalleled opportunity to see animals that exist nowhere else on the planet.

Some highlights include the beautiful jaguar, giant anaconda, electric eels and piranha, along with birds such as the toucan, scarlet macaw and the green aracari. Explore the rainforest with a knowledgeable guide on a rainforest walk, or take a boat trip with a pair of binoculars (and a camera!) to make the most out of your holiday to Brazil.

World Cup Update

With English hopes now joining the England team itself on the flight home, eyes turn toward a few of the more exciting teams to rekindle our love of football. Giant slayers Costa Rica are now top of Group D, while top-rated teams Portugal and Spain leave the competition early – the latter failing to earn a single point despite being last year’s winners! Stay tuned for more World Cup updates.

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Best Places to Stay in Brazil: The World Cup

With the first World Cup match scheduled for later this evening, football fans around the world are gearing up for what looks to be the most exciting tournament in recent years. The question is, however, does England have any chance whatsoever? We’ll have to wait and see. This week we’ll be looking at some of the better hotels available to stay at if you’re planning a holiday to Brazil.

Ucari Lodge 

The Ucari Lodge is a totally unique hotel located in the heart of the Amazon Rainforest. Dedicate to Eco Tourism, this hotel’s management is shared between the Mamiraua Institute and the communities from the Mamiraua Reserve. Started in 1998, the aim of the enterprise is to generate income for the local people and to contribute positively to the preservation of the Amazon’s natural resources.

Eight communities from the reserve run the Lodge, from the staff on the front line, the contractors that work on the property and the back office that manage it. Consisting of just 5 bungalows with rooms each, this hotel is not only great value for money but also has some great resources you might expect from a bigger hotel, including a swimming pool, kitchen, restaurant, bar and library. Each room has a porch with a view of both the river and the forest to make your holiday to Brazil as relaxing as possible.

Sagu Mini Resort, Ilha Grande 

The Sagu Mini Resort is a mecca for those looking to explore the outstanding natural beauty of the surrounding area. Located on the rocky headland in the forest between the Comprida and Brava beaches, you couldn’t be in a better position to make use of the variety of hiking and walking opportunities the Sagu Mini Resort affords you. Furthermore, the main town on the island, Abraao, is just a 15 minutes’ walk away through the beautiful jungle.

With just 9 rooms in total, this hotel offers a sense of exclusivity and elegance along with top-quality service – the staff are renowned for their friendliness and attention to detail. The rooms themselves are tastefully furnished and most feature a balcony facing the ocean complete with hammocks to relax and take in the sights. The hotel also offers a variety of external activities, including kayaking, diving and relaxing massages.

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Rio De Janeiro

In a unique location at the foot of the famous Sugarloaf Mountain, overlooked by the majestic sight of the statue of Christ the Redeemer, Rio de Janeiro is not just the host of the 2014 World Cup, it is also a centre for Brazilian culture – a thriving city with thousands of wonderful and unique things to experience. What are you waiting for!

The Area 

With lush green mountains on one side and crystal clear blue waters on the other, Rio de Janeiro is one of the most fascinating and culturally diverse places in the world. An economic powerhouse in Brazil, its rich history has led to it being one of the most visited places on the planet. Featuring some of Brazil’s most iconic and recognisable landmarks (including the famous statue of Christ the Redeemer) as seen in countless photos, films and TV shows.

Past the spectacular surface is an even more fascinating cultural underbelly. You’ll never be far from the sounds of the samba which permeates even the remotest corners of this city. The locals are known for their carefree spirit, which you’ll no doubt experience first-hand on your holiday to Argentina! Rent a beach hut on the stunning Copacabana and relax in the glorious sunshine, looking out over the water.

Best Time To Go

Brazil is famous for being sunny all year round, with temperatures reaching up to 30 degrees Celsius in summer. Remember that in the Southern Hemisphere the seasons are reversed, so summer falls between November and February (convenient for those looking to escape rainy Britain). However, Brazil is a tropical country, meaning with heavy sun can come heavy rain. Contact a Latin Routes Travel Specialist for more information about the best time to visit Rio de Janeiro.

Highlights 

Some of the highlights of this fantastic city include the world-famous Copacabana beach – relax in the sun, take a dip in the warm blue waters and sample some of the traditional street food from vendors that line the beach itself. Afterwards, take the cog train up Corcovado Mountain and witness the huge statue of Christ the Redeemer. Alternatively, take the cable car up Sugar Loaf Mountain, at the end of the beach itself, and take in the stunning views of the surrounding coastal area. If you’re feeling really adventurous, book a helicopter tour of the area – not only does this require less effort than climbing the mountains themselves, it affords you some absolutely spectacular views!

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02/06/2014

Carnival Next Friday

The excitement is building in the bustling city of Rio de Janeiro, as the world-famous Carnival is just a few days away!

Beginning on the 28th February, the celebrations will continue for 4 days including the Monday and Tuesday, which are national holidays in Brazil. Today we’ll be running you through a few hotels you might want to consider if you’re planning on joining the party. Since the seasons are reversed in South America, February is one of the hottest times of the years. With temperatures set to reach 32 degrees on Friday, proximity to Brazil’s famous beaches is a priority. With so many to choose from, this is no easy task!

Pousada La Chimere, Buzios

Located in the heart of Buzios well within walking distance of Bones, Azeda and Armacao beaches, this traditional, stylish hotel is a rustic alternative well worth considering. However, this certainly doesn’t mean you’ll have to compromise on comfort. The interior is well furnished and cosy, meaning you’ll be able to sit back and relax after a hard night’s partying in Rio.

The small pool on offer gives you a chance to soak through the hottest part of the day – with temperatures expected to be 30 degrees or more all weekend, this is certainly a necessity! With simple but comfortable rooms and characteristic wooden beams running throughout the hotel, the Pousada La Chimere blends authentic Brazilian architecture with some modern luxury to bring you the perfect setting for your weekend away.

Costa Norte Ingleses, Santa Catarina

If you’re willing to stay a short flight away from Rio de Janeiro itself, you will be richly rewarded. This hotel has a fantastic location right on the Praia dos Ingleses beach in Northern Florianopolis, in Santa Catarina. Not only is the hotel equipped with all the luxuries you might expect from a top-quality hotel, but it is also within easy walking distance of the town centre, which has an excellent selection of restaurants and shops.

Each room is carefully laid out, spacious and comfortable, featuring free WiFi, a minibar and cable TV, along with a few extra luxuries to make your stay that little bit more comfortable. Facilities include an indoor pool, a gym, tennis, football and basketball courts along with an ocean-view restaurant.

Find out more about any of our destinations, request a brochure or speak to one of our Latin Routes Travel Specialists by Contacting Us

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Rio Carnival Approaches!

It’s that time of year again! Brazil’s finest dancers, costumes and partygoers will come together over one spectacular weekend to celebrate before the beginning of lent.

The Party

The festivities have grown enormously over the years, having started with just a small street parade in 1823. It is now known universally as the biggest carnival in the world, with upwards of a two million people expected to hit the streets of Rio de Janeiro over the 4 day celebration between 28th February and 4th March. With a number of celebrities, including YouTube sensation PSY rumoured to be attending this year, 2014 looks to be bigger and better than ever.

Interestingly, of the total 5 million of so people that will be present over the 4 day weekend, around 500,000 will be tourists. This number has been steadily increasing for years, since the inception of the ‘Sambadrome’. This stadium-like construction is formed of two huge rows of bleachers facing each other, with a concrete path running between them. Huge lights illuminate this strip, as this is where the hundreds of dancers, drummers and colourful costumes will proceed in front of a sold-out 90,000 capacity crowd.

The Samba Schools

The Samba schools compete against each other for a chance to be promoted to what is known as the ‘Special Group’. This elite group of schools are the biggest, grandest and best-funded schools in Rio and certainly know how to put on a show. After the theme for the year has been chosen, each school gets to work choreographing dances, training their members and slaving away over costume design. The winning Samba school is afforded huge prestige within the Rio community so schools will often spend upwards of thousands of pounds in order to secure their place in Rio’s history.

In addition to the show on offer, a ‘King Momo’ is selected each year. This privileged individual is given the key to the city along with a sizeable reward. Traditionally, the King had to fit the profile of the original King Momo – this essentially involved his being over 300lbs in weight. However, with growing obesity problems in Brazil, this requirement was abandoned and the opportunity to become King Momo is now open to everyone.

2014 looks to be the biggest, brightest and best of the bunch so far, so don’t hesitate to grab the chance to go!

Sound like an awesome spectacle? Find out more: Contact a Latin Routes Travel Specialist

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Rio de Janeiro Carnival 2014

It isn’t an exaggeration to say that Brazil is a country full of everything; enthusiasm, vibrancy, colour, and, above all, life.

The cities, culture and most importantly the people of Brazil are some of the liveliest in South America, a continent already famous for its extravagant tastes. Even on the dullest days, the Brazilian people can surprise you with a lust for life that just isn’t found in the UK!

What happens, then, when the liveliest people in the world come together in the bustling streets of Rio de Janeiro to celebrate one of the most important religious dates in the calendar with an all-out, no-holds-barred, three day extravaganza? Rio de Janiero’s Carnival. On February 28^th, upwards of a million people – tourists and locals alike – will grace the streets of Rio de Janeiro to dance, drink, sing and catch a glimpse of the spectacular show on offer.

What is Carnival?

Let’s find out a bit more about the Carnival itself. The celebration officially lasts from February 28^th (Friday) until Ash Wednesday on the 4^th March. The Carnival itself has a number of different aspects. Firstly, there are a variety of different balls (often masked or masquerade) that are on offer. These usually entail dressing up, gorgeous settings and live music – an incredible experience, especially if you’re new to South America.

In addition to this, there are a number of ‘bloco’ parties that are held by the different Samba Schools competing in the Carnival Parade. These draw huge crowds of hundreds of thousands of people, and involve more music, dancing and general excitement. Imagine Notting Hill Carnival multiplied by 100! This in itself is enough to draw thousands of holiday-makers, but if you need more convincing…

The Parade

The main event. This is what Rio’s Carnival is famous for – outlandish costumes, larger-than-life characters and a drumbeat that you can’t help but dance to! The Parade itself started on a much smaller scale as a demonstration of the talent of different Samba Schools in the local area. Over the years, this developed into a heated competition and has evolved in the extraordinary feast of colour and sound that the Carnival is now known worldwide for. There are now over 500 Samba Schools, split into 5 ‘Divisions’, all competing to be in the top Division, translated as the ‘Special Group’.

Friday and Saturday is reserved for the ‘Gold Group’, Sunday and Monday the ‘Special Group’ and finally, the lesser-known Samba Schools compete on the final day, Tuesday. The best groups competing in the Gold Group may get promoted to the ‘Special Group’ the following year, and Tuesday affords some of the smaller schools the opportunity to put on a show to the 90,000 capacity ‘Sambadrome’, purpose-built to afford spectators a view of the procession. Tickets to the Sambadrome are red-hot, so book early to make sure you aren’t disappointed!

A different theme is selected each year. The Samba Schools then get to work building costumes, choreographing dances and writing music according to this theme. The end result is a procession involving hundreds of dancers, floats and drummers, all involved in a different aspect of the parade.

What’s Stopping You?

With World Cup 2014 coinciding with this year’s Carnival, it promises to be bigger, better and more beautiful than ever before!

Don’t miss out on this fantastic experience!

Talk to a Latin Routes Travel Specialist for more information about a holiday to Brazil.

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World Cup Packages Now Available

After the release of the first wave of World Cup tickets, Latin Routes have put together some packages for hotels which are now available to purchase. With prices starting from £2330 per person, experiencing the excitement of the World Cup is no longer just a fantasy.

If England manage to perform well in Group H and come first, then they will be playing whoever comes third in Group H on the 22^nd June. This match will be held in Rio de Janeiro, which will have limited hotel availability. However, if you have already managed to secure some tickets (or are planning to) we are offering three nights in the fantastic 4* Ipanema Plaza hotel between the 21^st and the 24^th June. Due to allocation at the hotel, these dates cannot be changed – prices are based on two people sharing a Standard room, with breakfast included. We would recommend this to those who are just looking for a taste of the World Cup rather than die-hard England fans.

If you’re looking to really make the most of your trip, we are also offering a 7 night, 2 match package from £3229 per person. You’ll be flying from Heathrow on the 21^st June and staying in Rio until the return flight on the 26^th. The two matches – one on the 22^nd and one on the 25^th – will be held whilst you’re there. England qualifying first in Group H would mean they will be playing on the 22^nd, and whoever places first in Group E will play 3^rd place in the same group will play on the 25^th. This package again includes the stunning 4* Ipanema Plaza Hotel in a Standard Room (based on two people sharing) and breakfast included.

The final trip is for those lucky enough to have tickets to all three matches in Rio de Janeiro – this includes 10 nights in Rio at the 2* Ibiza Copacabana Hotel. Flying out on the 17^th of June in time for the Group B match on the 18^th June, prices are again based on Economy flights, a Standard Room (2 people sharing) and breakfast included. Please note that the Ibiza Copacabana requires a minimum stay of 10 nights. After the matches on the 22^nd and 25^th, you’ll fly home in the evening on the 26^th, arriving back in England around lunchtime on the 27^th.

For full details of our World Cup Packages – Click Here

If you want more information about buying tickets, timings or matches themselves, have a look at our World Cup Guide.

Please contact a Latin Routes Travel Specialist if you’re interested in booking a trip to Brazil.

Please be aware that Latin Routes cannot purchase tickets on your behalf, these must be purchased through the official FIFA website.

Enhance Your World Cup Trip To Brazil

The World Cup is being held next year in Brazil and whilst the football is the main focus, this doesn’t mean there aren’t other things on offer.

If you’re planning on buying a ticket to next year’s World Cup in Brazil, you can’t afford to miss the myriad of other sights, smells and experiences that Brazil has to offer. Here is a list of things cities that you can occupy yourself with when you’re not cheering your team on.

Copacabana Beach, Rio

Nearest Stadium: Maracana Stadium, Rio

After seeing one of the most famous statues in the world, take a trip down to one of the most famous beaches, Rio’s Copacabana Beach. Once a year it plays host to one of the most extravagant news year’s parties in the world, with firework displays and thousands of residents turning up. During the rest of the year it is still one of Brazil’s most beautiful beaches, and is certainly worth a visit.

Pantanal Wetlands, Cuiaba

Nearest Stadium: Arena Pantanal

One of the greatest places to see wildlife in South America – rivalling the Amazon, even – Cuiaba is the perfect base from which to explore the Pantanal Wetlands. There are a few ways to explore the Pantanal – you can either drive halfway into the wetlands via the ‘Transpantaneira’ (the most popular route) or alternatively you can take a canoe trip down one of Northern Patal’s smaller rivers to see some of the wildlife close up. Hiking and trekking tours of the area are also available.

See the Amazon, Manaus

Nearest Stadium: Arena Amazonia

The access point to the Amazon Rainforest for a number of cruises, the opportunity to traverse the waters of the Amazon in both comfort and style is one that shouldn’t be passed up. With some of the most diverse and beautiful wildlife in the world, the Amazon is not only an experience you’ll never forget but one you’ll always regret not doing if you don’t! Cruises are available from G Adventures.

Christ the Redeemer, Rio

Nearest Stadium: Maracana Stadium, Rio

This one is almost a staple when visiting Rio – the beautiful 30m statue on top of Corcovado Mountain, which also affords some fantastic views of Rio itself. The whole thing can be done in half a day – with a funicular railway running from central locations up through the rainforest which is a beautiful half-hour journey. We would advise going earlier in the morning to avoid queues as it can get quite busy.

Beautiful Beaches, Fortaleza

Nearest Stadium: Estadio Castelao

Famed for its stunning beaches, Fortaleza is located in Northwest Brazil and is near Natal and Recife which are both host cities along with Fortaleza itself. The variety of beaches have something to offer to everyone – if you’re looking for a family day out, we’d recommend Meireles which has several playgrounds and seating areas. If you’re more in to surfing and water sports then perhaps Praia de Futuro would suit you better.

If you’re thinking of buying tickets, have a look out our guide to buying FIFA World Cup Brazil 2014 Tickets

Want to book a holiday to South America anyway? Have a look at our Website.

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