Rio Grande do Sul translates to “Great River of the South” and is the southernmost state of Brazil. It has differences to the rest of the country both climatically and culturally due to its distance from the populous hubs of Sao Paulo and Rio. In winter it is not uncommon to see snow on the peaks of the mountains, something unheard of in the rest of Brazil. The culture of the region has influences from Uruguay that it borders on the south and Argentina in the west. The area was heavily populated by European immigrants during the first half of the twentieth century so also has aspects of Italian and German cultures combining to create a unique people and place.
The state has spectacular National parks, including the Aparados da Serra, where visitors can find excellent hiking, trekking and rafting. Rio Grande do Sul is also the wine capital of the country and therefore a great location for those seeking romance and relaxation.
