Canyoning

Brazilians enjoy abseiling down canyons either next to or in the middle of waterfalls. The favorite place for doing this is the Parque Nacional Chapada dos Veadeiros, in Goias. The Cachoeira da Agua Fria is also popular.

Caving

Terra Ronca in the northeast has over 200 deep caves, many still unexplored. The best known is the three mile long Gruta Terra Ronca. During the Festa do Bom Jesus da Lapa in August, women dressed in white make a procession to a large underground lake with offerings of candles and flowers.

Diving

Fernando de Noronha is a 21-island archipelago known for its coral, tropical fish, manta rays, lemon sharks and spectacular rock formations. However visitor numbers are restricted to 420 at any time. Baia dos Golfinhos is famous for spinner dolphin. Ubatuba in the state of São Paulo is excellent for scuba diving. Ilha das Couves is best for coral and dolphins; Ilha de Palmas for rock formations and caverns.

Hang Gliding

Tandem flights are available in Rio. One of the most stunning starts from Pedra Bonita in Gavea and takes you over Tijuca, landing at São Conrado beach for a cold beer in one of the beachside bars.

Hiking

There are trails and guided walks available throughout the country. Many of the best are in the national parks. Highlights include the three day, 25-mile trek through the Parque Nacional Serra dos Orgãos which provides stunning coastal views and the chance to spot jaguars and wolves. It starts at Teresopolis and ends at Petropolis, both royal cities that were summer residences for the Emperors. Even more demanding is the 47-mile track from Lençois to Andarai in the Chapada Diamantina, an area of lush valleys and red mountain ranges.

Surfing

Is popular all along the coast, with the best waves in Santa Caterina south of Sao Paulo. Windsurfing and sailing are also widely available.