Brazil’s favelas—sprawling urban settlements clinging to the hillsides of Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo—are frequently misunderstood through the narrow lens of crime and poverty. In reality, these densely populated neighborhoods function as complex, highly organized micro-cities. Born out of historic government neglect and rapid urban migration, favelas have spent generations building their own parallel

Immerse yourself in the rich and vibrant culture of Brazil. Discover its deep African and indigenous roots, iconic Carnival traditions, legendary culinary arts, Capoeira, and Samba.