Jungle Giants

The Arapaima - Brazil’s largest freshwater fish

Known locally as 'Pirarucu', this giant of the Amazon is not only one of the largest freshwater fish in the world but also a living relic of the aquatic world, whose lineage dates back millions of years.

The Arapaima can reach lengths of up to 10 feet and weigh as much as 440 pounds, making it a behemoth in the rivers it inhabits. But size isn't the only remarkable feature of this species; the Arapaima has a unique respiratory system that requires it to surface for air every 10 to 20 minutes. This peculiarity makes it an exciting sighting for visitors on riverboat tours, as they can witness the fish's dramatic surfacing and hear the distinctive gulp of air it takes.

Covered in large, bony scales that act as armor, these fish are well-adapted to the challenging conditions of their environment, which can include aggressive piranhas. The scales are so tough that they are often used by local communities to craft jewelry and other ornaments, highlighting not only the fish's ecological role but also its cultural significance.

Reproduction is another fascinating aspect of the Arapaima's life. These fish are meticulous in their parental care, with males taking a particularly active role. They are mouthbrooders, meaning the male Arapaima will carry the eggs in his mouth to protect them from predators until they hatch. This protective behavior extends until the young are capable enough to survive on their own, showcasing a level of parental commitment that is quite rare among fish.

Stories passed down through generations speak of these massive fish as fearsome predators, capable of leaping from the water to snatch unsuspecting monkeys from low-hanging branches. Even more chilling are the tales whispered in riverside communities about Arapaimas mistaking small children for prey, pulling them beneath the surface of the water. While these stories are likely exaggerated, they add a layer of thrill and respect for this mighty fish among those who share its home.

Visiting the Amazon to see the Arapaima is more than just a wildlife tour; it’s an adventure that connects you with the ancient rhythms of the rainforest. You'll leave with not only spectacular memories but also a deeper understanding of the importance of conservation and sustainable living in one of the earth's most crucial ecosystems. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, an avid angler, or simply a curious traveler, the Amazon's Arapaima adventure promises an encounter with nature that’s as enriching as it is thrilling.

The Pink River Dolphin

Take a journey into the Amazon Basin to meet one of its most fascinating residents: the pink river dolphin, also known as 'Boto' by the locals. These dolphins are unlike any others, standing out with their unusual pink color which can range from a subtle light pink to a bright, bold hue. They become pink through what is believed to be scarred tissue - from battling other dolphins to navigating the trecherous deeps of the Amazon with little to no visibility. They have even been known to “blush” when excited, turning them even more pink in color.

They rely heavily on echo location because of how murky the waters are where they live. Their unique appearance is matched by their agility; they have flexible necks and long beaks, perfect for navigating the complex and tree-filled waters of the Amazon.

The anatomy and behavior of pink river dolphins are as interesting as their color. They are equipped with large, paddle-like flippers and a body that's exceptionally flexible compared to other dolphins. This flexibility allows them to maneuver around obstacles and navigate through the flooded forests with ease during the wet season. They also have unusually large brains, with a brain-to-body weight ratio greater than that of other dolphins, suggesting high intelligence and sophisticated social behavior. They are even known for following around fishermen in hopes of stealing their catch!

This Boto was trapped in a lake after water levels receded, cutting him off from the outside world. He followed around the fishermen and interacted with them for hours.

In local Amazonian folklore, the pink river dolphin is often seen as a mystical creature with the power to bring either fortune or doom. Legends say that during festivals, the 'Boto' can transform into a handsome man who seduces women, only to return to the river by sunrise. Despite their friendly and curious nature, locals treat them with a mix of admiration and annoyance, as they have us fishermen do all the work only to have them reap the rewards of the catch!

With some luck - you might see one of the most majestic creatures of the Amazon. Although hard to spot, there are lots of them inhabiting the regions surrounding our lodge.

Vacation Spots in Brazil (Other than the city of Rio de Janeiro)

Part 1

Brazil is the 5th largest country in the world and the largest country in South America. What does this mean? This means there are plenty of spots to go on vacation! Other than the typical city of Rio- there are tons of worth while places to visit in Brazil. Even within the actual state of Rio de Janeiro you have many other options that can satisfy your travel bug beyond what you could imagine ever imagine!

Since Brazil is so large and diverse there are many different types of vacation destinations that cater to different styles of vacations. There are busier beach-ie areas, large bustling cities, more natural/nature destinations and even some areas that make you feel as if you are in another continent.

Beach destinations:

Buzios: If you are looking for a location not far from the city of Rio- Buzios is a perfect option. The city of Buzios was made famous by Bridgette Bardot in the 60’s and has come a long way from the fisherman’s village that it once was. To arrive here you can a) take a bus from Rio for about 120 reis and 4 hours b) take a private cab/Uber - you can usually negotiate the trip for 550-600 reis or c) go by plane.Buzios is a great place if you are looking to get away from the danger of Rio and overwhelming business of it all. Buzios is a super safe place, with little to no crime. It has multiple beaches that you can visit, a huge restaurant scene and enough of a nightlife where you can enjoy yourself until the early hours of the morning if you so please. It also has infastructure such as a bus system, Uber, large grocery stores and great wifi and cellphone service. It is a great vacation destination that has a good mix of families, couples, and singles with a high concentration of Argentinian tourists. Highly recommend staying near Joao Fernandes beach. It is close enough and far enough away from the action so that you can be able to enjoy yourself and also feel the serenity of being in a peaceful area.

Jerricoacoara, Céara: Here is another beautiful beach town. Jerricoacoara or “Jerri” is much more rustic than Buzios. To arrive in Jerri you can either take a plane directly to the airport (which is very expensive) or take a shuttle from Fortaleza airport for about 200-300 reis per person and about a 4 hour drive - which is decently enjoyable. Here, has much more of a hippie vibe, with many small clothing shops, restaurants, and other ma and pa stores. Luxury does exist in the area as there are some higher end hotels and restaurants. There are a lot of tourists that come here for the windsurfing or simply for a weekend getaway from the neighbouring larger city of Fortaleza. For the breathtaking sunsets there is always a party at Café Jerri which is a must for techno music, beautiful people and just a great party that doesn’t finish too late. Otherwise at night there are many reggae style, chill house party vibe events that switch places depending on the day. Here you will find mostly Brazilians with other nationalities peppered in around the area. Highly recommend getting a group of friends and doing the buggy tour - make a party out of it.

Jerricoacoara, Céara Buggy Tour

Trancoso, Bahia: Giselle Bundchen, Adriana Lima are just some of the big time Brazilian celebrities that ome here for vacation. Trancoso, Bahia is Brazils Chiqe vacation beach location. To arrive here you can either take your private plane or take a transfer from Porto Seguro airport that involves crossing the river on a ferry boat (don’t worry, it is not that hard to do and costs about 100 reis total) . Bahia is a lovely state with the highest concentration of African diaspora. This shows in the people, the food, the music, the dance and the overall culture. Expect to eat spicy foods, dance to lively music and feel the upbeat nature of Bahia. Other than this, the beaches here are some of the nicest in Brazil and the world. Trancoso has miles of pristine beach with lukewarm water. The accommodations are a mix of ultra luxurious and affordable - same with the restaurants and shops- with the emphasis on luxury. It has a decent night life , but it is much more prominent during new years and carnival- otherwise it is made more for couples who want to enjoy a beautiful and romantic getaway. If you want something more off the beaten path- take the bus or a taxi 4 hours to Caraiva which is a must more rustic island nearby that has a younger and more of a single -life party vibe /“Hippie Chique”

Bahia

City Destinations

Sao Paulo: Lots of people will tell you , don’t go to Sao Paulo- it’s just another city. DO NOT LISTEN TO THIS. Sao Paulo isn’t “just another city”. Sao Paulo is a city with over 12 million residents and the biggest in Brazil. It is a bustling metropolis that rivals New York. It is classy, it is rich, it has some of the best. food you will find from everywhere in the world, it is classy and it is half the price of New York. It obviously has the dangers that come with Brazil - but what big city isn’t dangerous? Fun Fact: Sao Paulo has the highest population of Japanese outside of Japan. This means you will find some of the best Ramen, Sushi etc here - even better at times then Japan itself ! A Thursday to Monday is perfect to visit this city to check out the museums, the different neighbourhoods, the food , the parties and the city life!

Beco do Batman, Sao Paulo

Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais: Belo Horizonte is a different vibe. Located in the state of Minas Gerais that is known for having the best food in Brazil and the sexiest accents. This city is a fun time if you are looking for something less hectic than Sao Paulo that has culture, great food, and a nice casual weekend beer drinking, normal-life vibe. Here you won’t see many tourists and can get a glimpse into a more normalized, and more economically stable city in Brazil. Here you experience less poverty and more of a normal day to day life which can be refreshing after spending time in many of the bigger Brazilian cities. Fun Fact: Here is where Pão de Queijo originated - famous Brazilian cheese bread and it is the # 3 best city after Rio and Salvador to celebrate Carnival. They say that here- since there is no water/beach they compensate by having the most bars per capita in Brazil.

Belo Horizonte

Gramado, Rio Grande do Sul: This city is located in the South of Brazil but could as easily be a city in Germany. What is different about this city is that it is all modelled as if it were a german ciy. the houses, the roads and general infrastrure is all very European. It is a beautiful picturesque town thatis great for a romantic weekend getaway. In August, you don’t want to miss their film festival that brings people from all over the world for a week of parties, events and film.

Gramado

Here is just the first part of many vacation spot ideas for those wanting to visit the lovely country of Brazil. We will be following up with more articles and even more amazing places to visit in Brazil. Até Depois !

Top Beach Eats in Brazil

Beaches in Brazil are plentiful and so much so that every Brazilian has their opinion on what is their favourite beach- whereas to a foreigner - they are all nice.

For a Brazilian- you are almost ‘cooler’ the more unknown your favourite beach is.

Some beaches can be in the middle of a city and easy to get to with others further away and harder to access. Some beaches are filled with tourists, others are more local and others have no one at all.

One thing you will find at the busier beaches are the vendors.

Brazil is a country of hustlers that sell anything and everything - everywhere. This can be on a bus, at a traffic stop, on a train and of course, on a beach.

In Rio particularly you will find the most aggressive vendors selling a variety of products. Don’t be shy! It is important to embrace this part of the culture and I am here to tell you what You definitely should buy and what you definitely should avoid.

1.Milho/Corn in butter and salt: A must eat and a beach favourite. You can’t miss these vendors with their push carts that have a large drunk in the center boiling their many heads of corn. Delicious and addictive be sure to cover this beach snack in as much butter and salt as you desire. Sometimes- the better vendors - offer dried onions and parmesan among other delicious add ons ! Expect to pay about 10 reis per bowl .

Milho

2. Quejo Caolho/ Fried Cheese: Be on the look out for the vendors with their small convection BBQs and who are ready to cook you up some cheese! This cheese is comparable to haloumi and is delicious once BBQ’ed over hot coals. Make sure to add some oregano and top it with honey to have the full experience. Expect to pay around 8-10 reis

Quejo Coalho

3. Pão de Alho/ Garlic Bread: The same vendors that sell you Quejo Caolho/Fried Cheese also carry delicious Pão de Alho/Garlic Bread. The Garlic Bread in Brazil is on another level, and is packed with more garlic and flavour than what we as gringos are used to. If you are hungry on the beach make sure to grab yourself one of these. ALSO! do not forget about espetinhos, which follows the same principle of food on a stick - except it is meat. It is omportant to make sure your vendor has fresh looking meat and cooks all his food for a good amount of time. Expect to pay 10-15 reis per unit.

Pão de Alho

4. Mate Leão/ Ice Tea with Lemon: Look for vendors carrying two large silver barrels, one under each arm. These vendors are selling a delicious blend of ice cold ice tea with lemon/lime. One barrel has the ice tea and the other barrel has the lemon mix. This is to cut the sugar and the vendors let you decide on the right mix for you. This drink provides the ultimate refresher on those boiling summer Brazilian summer days. Expect to pay 10 reis for a large glass. ** Tip - get them with Globo chips and dip them in to eat !

Ice Tea Vendor

5. Esfiha: Roaming the beaches you may also find grown adults walking around in long white religious robes. These ‘arab’ dressed individuals are selling Esfiha. Esfiha is a lebanese flat bread usually filled with a type of meat of cheese. This is another great snack on the beach who’sbranding comes off as a bit silly as far as I am concerned. Expect to pay around 15 reis for2 +

WHAT TO AVOID!

Shrimp: I think this goes without saying but if you see these vendors with plates full of shrimp that. have been basking all day in the sun - STAY AWAY

Shrimp Beach Food in Rio

Pre Made Caipirnhas: There will be vendors trolling the beach with large decorated cups selling what seem to be delicious looking pre made caipirnhas, pina coladas and other drinks. Do not let the looks fool you. Usually these drinks will be made with poor quality ice and booze and since you are not there when it is made - avoid this. Order your drinks from the ‘Barraca’/, floating bar, or beach restaurant at the area of the beach you are staying.

Remember, the beach in Brazil is more than a pastime, it is a religion. Get comfortable, find the spot that you like, the vendors that you know and what you like to eat while enjoying your lovely surroundings.

Hope this helps and try and remember our advice for the nexgt time you go to a beach in Brazil.

Cheers

Brazil Quick Basic Tips for First-Timers

Brazilian Flag

Welcome to Brazil! Whether it be for eco-tourism, the beaches, or just for business, many people from all over the world have many different reasons for travelling to to this lovely country.

Some quick facts before coming to Brazil:

• Brazil is the largest country in South America, both in land area and population. It covers nearly half of the continent.

• Its official language of Brazil is Portuguese, making it the only country in South America with Portuguese as its official language.

• Brazil is known for its diverse culture, which is a blend of indigenous, European, African, and Asian influences.

• The Amazon Rainforest in Brazil is the largest tropical rainforest in the world, covering over 2 million square miles.

• Rio de Janeiro is one of the most famous cities in Brazil, known for its beautiful beaches, annual carnival, and iconic Christ the Redeemer statue.

• Brazil is a leading producer of commodities such as coffee, sugarcane, soybeans, and orange juice.

• Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in Brazil, with the national team having won the FIFA World Cup a record five times.

• The country is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including jaguars, monkeys, toucans, and anacondas.

• The Brazilian Carnival is a major cultural event held before Lent and is known for its samba music, dance, and elaborate costumes.

• The Brazilian economy is one of the largest in the world and is characterized by sectors such as agriculture, mining, manufacturing, and services.

  *These facts would be important to remember before arriving since Brazilians can and are very proud people.

Flamengo, Rio de Janeiro

What can you expect as a first timer?

Expect people to mostly only speak portuguese- and often times the size of the city doesn’t make as much as a difference as does the education level. Cities as touristy as Rio can have very few english speakers and a city like Belo Horizonte may have more.

Brazilians love to be Brazilian and do not expect much variation. Food and music is very Brazilian- do not expect to hear classic rock or eat an elaborate vegan salad as these are not very ‘Brazilian style’. It is true that in bigger cities you will find more food options and different music spots but these options are still very few and far between. Expect to see lots of meat and fries, salads containing only tomato lettuce and onion, coffee - full of sugar, lots of sweets (Brazilians love sweets) and music will be typical samba, funke, sertanejo (Depending on what region listens to what).

Typical Brazlian Food

Brazilians are very friendly people ! Brazilians love to smile at you, say hi, and offer their help when they can. They are very kind, warm and gentle hearted people and love to show new-comers the respective things they love about their wonderful country.

Rio De Janeiro - Carnival

Beware - it can be dangerous. Brazil is no laughing matter- petty crime does happen and it happens more often than anyone would like. In saying so , beware to always take Ubers, avoid walking anytime after dark and do not walk through areas that aren’t in the safe and occupied parts of the city. Do not wear gold chains, expensive watches etc. A “positive” is that unlike other countries, Brazilians aren’t very violent - therefore they can/and might try to rob you (if yo don’t follow the basic guidelines") with a weapon- but they will not be violent, just give them what they ask for and they will leave. REMEMBER, this information is to be fully transparent and is not meant to dissuade you from coming. This is an amazing country, filled with delicious food, culture, and amazing people. Just like in all travels - you must travel smart and respect the country that you are in.

A Brazilian Flavela. * Important to note that some are much safer and OK to visit while others aren’t.

Hope you liked this mini resume .. will continue to provide more information about Brazil, Travel, and all things adventure !

Fishing the Brazilian Amazon - How to Prepare?

The Brazilian Amazon is a renowned destination for anglers seeking thrilling fishing experiences in the heart of the world's largest rainforest. With its vast network of rivers and pristine natural beauty, the Amazon offers a unique opportunity to catch a wide variety of exotic fish species, including the formidable peacock bass, massive arapaima, and fierce piranha.

Navigating the intricate waterways of the Amazon surrounded by lush vegetation and diverse wildlife is an adventure like no other. Whether you are a seasoned angler looking for a challenge or a beginner wanting to explore this extraordinary ecosystem, the Brazilian Amazon promises an unforgettable fishing expedition filled with excitement and discovery.

Different parts of the Amazon have different environments. Some areas can be denser in animals, bugs, fish and even people, but when you are venturing into the Amazon you should always prepare for a survival in one of mother natures most beautiful and brutal environments.

You should always bring with you:

• Mosquito Repellant

• Water resistant and UV protective gear - Long sleeve shirt and pants (To prevent long term exposure to the sun)

• Sunscreen

• Hat

• Water shoes

• Face Buff

• Diarrhea pills, Tylenol, and Electrolyte packs

• Small Back Pack

• Satellite phone/ Walkie talkie (if not with a travel/tour company that carries one)

• Water Case for your phone and back up camera

Surviving in the Amazon is not difficult unless you make it so. Come well prepared. Expect, humidity, heat and bugs - one of the three attacking you constantly from all angles. When you arrive well prepared, this allows you to truly enjoy your surroundings and your trip which many people don’t get the chance to experience in their lifetimes.

Mosquito

If you are fishing, expect to catch a lot of fish and if taking tours in the jungle or along the rivers edge - prepare to see animals and wildlife. Keep your camera out and ready to capture those moments and make sure it is well protected so you do not lose it to the tough outdoor conditions. Remember, sometimes a Jaguar may pop his head out only for an instance and that is something you do not want to miss.

Jaguar, Amazon

It is important to realize that you are entering indigenous territory. The land you are able to fish and explore is theirs and not anyone else’s. It is always important to remind yourself of this aspect and to respect at all times the environment that you are allowed to visit and experience.

Amazon Tribe

Embark on a journey with Tarzan Fishing Adventures to delve into the untamed wilderness of the Brazilian Amazon and reel in the catch of a lifetime amidst breathtaking landscapes and unparalleled biodiversity.