Volunteer abroad in Brazil, South America, including teaching and care.

Volunteering in Brazil

Brazil is a magical country of staggering geographical, cultural and economic diversity. The 5th largest country in the world in terms of both area and population, Brazil dominates the continent of South America, bordering 10 countries and claiming a total coastline of over 7,000 kilometres. As well as the fabulously sandy beaches Brazil offers the visitor mountains, plains, savannahs and rainforest, fed by the country's tropical climate and the mighty Amazon River. Brazil's population is a melting pot of different nationalities from all corners of the globe, yet all fiercely proud of the country that binds them together!

Brazil's economy is the 9th largest in the world and has expanded rapidly in recent years. However this boom has certainly not seen everyone's standard of living rise and today Brazil is one of the highest ranking nations in terms of inequality. This is one of the root causes of the social problems which exist in the country and is one of the reasons you can help by giving your time to volunteer in Brazil.

Projects are available for anyone interested in volunteering in the developing world, whether you are a volunteer on a gap year, a summer placement, or a career break.

Volunteer work opportunities in Brazil

Projects Abroad Brazil is based in the mountainous area of the State of Rio de Janeiro, less then two hours from one of the most exciting cities in the world. The city itself has a population of 6 million people and is located on the south-east coast of the country. Nicknamed simply "Marvellous City", Rio is famous for the two 'giants' who overlook the city: Sugar Loaf mountain, and the impressive statue of Christ the Redeemer, which was recently designated as one of the seven wonders of the modern world. Rio de Janeiro is also the home of one of the greatest shows on earth, the Rio Carnival: a four day spectacular of colour, music and dance which showcases the city's immense cultural diversity.

But away from the glitz and the glamour of the carnival, this area is home to poorer communities, where there is a real need for help. As a volunteer with Projects Abroad in Brazil you will have the chance to make a real difference whether you are teaching English in a school, or working on a Care project. You will live with a local host family who will provide you the very best that Brazilian hospitality has to offer, and you will find you rapidly become an important part of the local community.

Travel and Tourism in Brazil

Brazil has so much that is worth seeing that it is difficult to know where to start. The Projects Abroad Brazil office is in a mountainous area known for excellent trekking, mountain biking and many other outdoor sports. Close by in the city of Rio de Janeiro there are a thousand different ways to entertain yourself and you will probably choose to spend some of your weekends there.

In addition to the sights mentioned above, Rio is also home to one of the largest sports stadiums in the world, the Maracana. Whether you are a football fan or not, catching the atmosphere at a live game will be an unforgettable experience! The city also contains the world's largest urban forest; at 32 square kilometres the Tijuca Forest is a designated National Park, containing all manner of rare species.

Further afield you can experience the beautiful beaches of Fernando de Noronha, the lively atmosphere of Salvadore and the raw power of the Iguazu Falls. No trip to Brazil would be complete without a trip to the Amazon, and you can use Brazil as a gateway to just about every other South American country. Travel alone if you wish, or with a group; there will always be other Projects Abroad volunteers to accompany you!