Red Like an Ember...Brazil! Trivia Quiz

Answer: Argentina

The Iguazu River forms part of the boundary between Brazil and Argentina. The falls were the creation of ancient volcanic eruption which literally cracked the earth. There are cataracts on both sides of the river leaving some of the falls in Brazil and some of the falls in Argentina.

There are multiple cascades, each with a different name. Located in the middle of a pristine jungle, these falls can be visited by boat or by helicopter. Best of all, there are some areas where it is possible to swim in the spray from the cascading waters.

This beautiful piece of work by Mother Nature is a definite must-see when travelling in Brazil.

Answer: Mantiqueira Mountains

Pedra do Bau is just one of the many interesting rock formations found in the Mantiqueira Mountain Range. This sight is a popular tourist destination for avid rock climbers. The mountain range itself, located in the southeastern part of the country, is one of the most important sources of drinking water in southern Brazil.

The word 'mantiqueira' is a Tupi word that is best translated as 'mountains that cry', a reference to the many rivers and springs that originate in this Brazilian Mountain chain.

Answer: St. Michael of the Missions

Construction on Sao Miguel das Missoes, also known as St. Michael of the Missions, began in 1735. In 1984, the ruins of this once magnificent mission were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The site was built by Spanish Jesuit missionaries who had come to convert the local Guarani natives to Christianity.

The location was turned over to the Portuguese at the conclusion of the Guarani War in 1756. The 1986 film "The Mission" starring Robert De Niro and Jeremy Irons was based on these events and the movie was filmed at the ruins and features dramatic footage of the area.

Answer: Brazil nut tree

One of the tallest trees in South America is the Brazil nut tree. Known for its delicious seeds, this magnificent tree is found in many areas of the country. With a life span of up to 1,000 years, the Brazil nut tree is a very hearty tree. In Brazil, it is illegal to cut these trees down and they can be found in residential areas as well as in the middle of large cities. Any trip to Brazil will, almost always, involve seeing one of these lovely trees.

Answer: Salvador

Salvador was originally founded as a whaling port. It is home to many beautiful beaches. Salvador has grown into one of the most populous cities in Brazil and is world famous for its carnivals, parades, and festivals. The city has many examples of 17th and 18th century architecture and a wonderful example of African-Brazilian culture.

This is one of the few cities in South America where the descendants of African slaves have preserved their heritage. The city displays a wonderful mix of Native, Portuguese, and African influences. If you are looking for a city of sun and fun, Salvador may be just perfect for your next vacation.

Answer: Unique plants found nowhere else.

Mount Roraima is a giant flat-topped mountain, also known as a mesa. It is located on the border of Brazil, Venezuela, and Guyana. Waterfalls cascade down its sides and it rains virtually every day on the top of the mountain. This inundation of water causes the loose soil to wash away, leaving only the hardiest of plants to grow.

The top of the mountain is home to many unusual and unique plants found nowhere else. All plants are low lying and there are no real trees, as the soil does not have enough nutrient value. On one side is a very long set of steps carved into the mountain so that intrepid tourists can climb to the top of this extraordinary geological formation.

The only other way to access the top is to climb up the side, making this location perfect for rock climbing.

Answer: False

The mighty Amazon River starts in Peru, at a volcanic peak in the Andes Mountains known as Mismi. It then flows east, ending at the Atlantic Ocean where it pours out a vast amount of fresh water. It does not empty or have any connection to the Pacific Ocean. Unlike many rivers that empty at one location into the ocean or sea, the Amazon is so large it empties at many locations and has multiple deltas. No visit to South America would be complete without a visit to this massive river, which is so very important to the ecosystem of the whole continent.

Answer: Oscar Niemeyer

The architect responsible for many landmark buildings, Oscar Niemeyer is considered by many to be Brazil's greatest architect. He designed the Supreme Court Building, the National Library, and the Palacio da Alvorada, home to the Presidents of Brazil while they are in office.

The unique building in this photograph is known as the Cathedral of Brasilia and can be visited during a tour of the capital city of Brasilia. The darker areas of the structure that are seen between the large concrete beams are made of glass.

This design allows for plenty of sunshine to enter the interior.

Answer: True

Home to a huge variety of flora and fauna, The Pantanal is one of Brazil's major tourist attractions. One of the world's largest wetlands, this area is home many species of unique flora and fauna. A visit to this land of wild may allow you to see jaguars, tapirs and capybara in the wild. Unlike other areas of Brazil, the Pantanal offers a panoramic view, allowing the curious tourist a better view of the indigenous animals of the area. Located on the border of Brazil, Paraguay, and Bolivia, the largely unspoiled Pantanal is an outstanding location to visit if you are interested in nature and wildlife.

Answer: Automobiles

Located on the Tinhare Islands of Brazil, the island of Morro de Sao Paulo is a wonderful, lightly populated vacation destination for those who are in search of a place that is somewhat secluded. While on the island you can enjoy a cold cocktail while walking along the beautiful sand beaches that are located all around this sunny island. What you will probably not see is an automobile. To get to this slice of paradise, you must catch a boat or airplane. Tractors are used for transportation on the island and most visitors stay in small beach houses available for rent.

As tourism grows, automobiles will certainly become a more common option for transportation around the island unless efforts are made to keep them off of the island.