Forbes Advisor conducted a survey to create an Index of the 50 best countries for ecotourism. The score is based on factors such as the number of animal and plant species found in a country, the number of species per 10 km², the percentage of the country’s land mass that is protected, and the number of UNESCO Natural Heritage Sites it has.
With a score of 94.9 out of 100, Brazil ranks first. Mexico, Australia, Ecuador, and Costa Rica follow Brazil in the top five positions, respectively.
According to the magazine, “Brazil is the country with the greatest biodiversity among all destinations, with over 43,000 varied species of animals and plants. This is despite large-scale deforestation in the Amazon.
About 30% of Brazil’s land mass is currently protected. This includes eight UNESCO World Natural Heritage Sites, one of which is the Central Amazon Conservation Complex, which protects endangered species such as the Amazonian manatee and the black caiman.
Ecotourism in Brazil
Brazil is a leader in ecotourism, and there are many ways to experience the country’s natural wonders. Keep an eye on the following suggestions:
Amazônia
The Amazon rainforest is the largest tropical rainforest in the world and is home to an incredible diversity of plants and animals. Here, visitors can see everything from towering samaúma trees to majestic jaguars. Ecotourists can hike through the jungle, take canoe trips, and go on wildlife observation safaris to experience the forest up close.
Pantanal
The Pantanal wetlands are the largest wetland system in the world and are home to a wide variety of wildlife, including capybaras, caimans, and giant anteaters. Ecotourists can go horseback riding, take boat safaris, and join bird-watching tours to explore the Pantanal.
Iguazu Falls
The Iguazu Falls are one of the largest and most impressive waterfalls in the world. They consist of 275 individual falls that plunge along a stretch of 2.7 kilometers (1.7 miles) of the Iguazu River. Ecotourists can take boat rides to get close to the falls or hike the trails for different perspectives.
Fernando de Noronha
Fernando de Noronha is a volcanic archipelago off the coast of Brazil. It is known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and abundant marine life. Ecotourists can go snorkeling, diving, and surfing to explore the underwater world. They can also visit the Marine National Park to learn about the island’s unique flora and fauna.
Chapada Diamantina National Park
This park is home to impressive waterfalls, deep canyons, and crystal-clear rivers. Visitors can hike, swim, and rappel in the park.
Lençóis Maranhenses National Park
This park is known for its white sand dunes and turquoise lagoons. Visitors can take buggy rides and kayak tours to explore the park.
Bonito Ecological Reserve
This reserve is known for its crystal-clear rivers and waterfalls. Visitors can go snorkeling, diving, and swimming in the reserve.
Source: Forbes