Brazil is a country in South America, located along the Atlantic Ocean. It is the fifth-largest country in the world and the largest in South America by area. Here are 18 interesting facts about Brazil. Let’s read.
18 interesting facts about Brazil
1. Overview
Brazil is the fifth-largest country in the world by area. It has an area of around 8.5 million square kilometers (3.3 million square miles). Brazil is also the seventh most populous country in the world. The country has a population of 212.8 million (2025 estimate).
2. About 60% of the Amazon rainforest is in Brazil
About 60% of the world’s largest tropical rainforest, the Amazon rainforest, is located in Brazil. This vast rainforest makes Brazil one of the most biologically diverse countries on Earth. It plays a critical role in regulating the global climate and provides a home to countless plant and animal species.
3. Brazil touches all countries in South America except Chile and Ecuador
It is interesting to note that Brazil shares a border with every South American country except Chile and Ecuador.
4. The majority of the population resides near the Atlantic coast
The majority of Brazil’s population lives near the Atlantic coast. Most of the country’s major cities, including São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and Salvador, are located along the coastline.
5. Brazil has many UNESCO World Heritage Sites
There are a total of 25 UNESCO world heritage sites in Brazil – 15 cultural, 9 natural, and 1 mixed. The most visited ones are – City of Brasilia, Iguaçu National Park, the Historic Centre of Salvador de Bahia, etc.
The Christ the Redeemer statue, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, is located in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The statue stands 30 meters (98 feet) tall.
6. The flag of Brazil has 27 stars
There are 27 stars in the flag of Brazil. The stars represent the 26 Brazilian states and the Federal District (Brasília).
7. Brazil hosts the world’s largest carnival
The Rio de Janeiro Carnival is widely considered the biggest and most famous carnival in the world. Held every year before Lent, it attracts millions of people from Brazil and around the globe. Known for its vibrant parades, elaborate costumes, and lively samba music, the Rio Carnival is often called “The Greatest Show on Earth.”
8. Brazil has a large latitudinal range
Brazil is the only country in the world through which both the Equator and Tropic of Capricorn pass.
9. Brazil is a popular travel destination
Brazil is the most visited country in South America and is among the most visited in the Americas. In 2024, around 6.8 million international tourists visited Brazil.
10. The largest producer of Coffee
Brazil is the largest coffee producer in the world, a title it has held for many decades. It is also the world’s largest coffee exporter.
11. The largest producer of Sugarcane
Brazil is also the largest producer and exporter of sugarcane. Sugarcane in Brazil is not only used for sugar production but also for making ethanol.
12. The world’s largest river flows through Brazil
The majority of the Amazon River’s length lies within Brazil. It is the second-longest river in the world after the Nile River, although it is the largest river in the world by volume of water.
13. Languages in Brazil
Portuguese is the official and most spoken language in Brazil. Spanish, Hunsrik, and English are some other significantly spoken languages in the country.
14. Sports in Brazil
Association football (soccer) is the most popular sport in Brazil. The country is the most successful in FIFA World Cup history, having won the title a record five times. Volleyball and basketball are also widely played and enjoyed across the country.
15. The largest city in Brazil
São Paulo is the largest city in Brazil. With a population of around 12 million, it is one of the most populous cities in all of the Americas.
16. Capital of Brazil
Brasilia is the capital of Brazil. It is the third most populous city in Brazil. Brasilia became the capital of Brazil in 1960. The previous capital was Rio de Janeiro.
17. Brazil is the largest economy in South America
Brazil has the highest nominal GDP in South America. The largest sector of its economy is the service sector, followed by the industrial sector.
18. Highest mountain peak in Brazil
Pico da Neblina is the highest mountain peak in Brazil. It has an elevation of 2,995 meters (9,826 feet) and is located in the state of Amazonas, near the border with Venezuela.
Quick facts about Brazil
| Area | around 8.5 million square kilometers (3.3 million square miles) |
| Area rank | 5th |
| Population | 212.8 million (2025 estimate) |
| Capital city | Brasilia |
| Largest city | São Paulo |
| Currency | Brazilian Real |
| Most spoken language | Portuguese |
| Most popular sport | Football (Soccer) |