The Amazon
The Facts
Population: 186 million (Brazil)
Capital: Brasilia (Brazil)
Currency: Brazilian Real
Language(s): Portuguese is the official language of Brazil. English, French and Spanish are also spoken. Brazil is unusual in being South America's only non-Spanish speaking country, a legacy of the Portuguese colonial past.
Time Difference: GMT -3 hours
International dialling code: +55
Climate: Being in the Southern Hemisphere, Brazil has its winter from June to August. The Amazon basin has a tropical climate with high temperatures, rainfall and humidity.
Environment: The flora and fauna of Brazil are as diverse as its geography. Brazil has the highest number of species of primates, amphibians and plants in the world, and is in the top five in the world for number of birds and reptile species. Much of this biodiversity is due to the Amazon basin with its dense tropical rainforests and the Pantanal wetlands.
Health: We recommend you check with your GP who will advise you of the up to date requirements.
