7 Times Instagram Captured the Beauty of Brazil

The recently released QS University Rankings: BRICS 2016 ranks the top universities from five of the world’s major emerging economies: Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa. As the economies of these countries continue to develop, so does the appeal of their top universities!

So if you’re planning your study abroad adventure, look no further than beautiful Brazil. Here are 7 beautiful images of Brazil from Instagram to feed your wanderlust.

1. Chapada Diamantina

Where better to start than the breath-taking Chapada Diamantina National Park, located in the Brazilian state of Bahia. This huge park covers over 375,000 acres of rugged Brazilian countryside, and the word ‘diamantina’, in the park’s name, refers to the diamond deposits that were mined there in the 19^th century.

2. The Pelourinho

The Pelourinho (Portuguese for ‘pillory’) is Salvador de Bahia’s historic center. Founded in 1549 by Portuguese settlers, it was Brazil’s first capital, and is one of the oldest colonial settlements in South America.

3. Corcovado

Corcovado is the Portuguese word for ‘hunchback’, which is a pretty accurate description of this impressive geological formation in Rio de Janeiro. On top of the hill, however, is an even more striking icon: the world-famous statue known locally as Cristo Redentor, or, Christ the Redeemer.

4. Fernando de Noronha

Fernando de Noronha is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, consisting of 21 islands off Brazil’s eastern point. Its deep blue water and lush green foliage make it a must-see for anyone looking for a remote, tropical island experience – Brazil style!

5. Pantanal

This special conservation area is home to the world’s largest tropical wetland. Its unique size allows for a staggeringly diverse range of flora and fauna. Even if you don’t see yourself as a budding biologist, the sheer scale of the Pantanal earns it a deserved place on any itinerary.

6. The Amazon Rainforest

You probably expected to see this here, didn’t you? It’s not surprising that the Amazon Rainforest remains one of Brazil’s principle natural attractions, home to all kinds of beautiful images, when you consider that 60% of the Amazon’s area can be found within Brazil’s borders.

7. Lençóis Maranhenses

From one extreme to another. Brazil is truly a country of breath-taking contrasts, and after the lush greenery of the Amazon Rainforest, the Lençóis Maranhenses looks like it could be on another planet!

Check out @TopUnis on Instagram for more study abroad inspiration >