BrazilTour

Roraima

Since the beginnings of 16th century, the region now considered state of Roraima was land of disputes, due to its rich mineral reserves. It was sought by Spanish, Portuguese, Dutch and English until the beginnings of this century. But in 1943, with a section from the state of Amazon, the Federal Government created the territory of Branco River, which became Roraima later in 1962. In 1988 became a state by decision of the National Congress.

Its capital city, the well planned Boa Vista, is a modern, flat city designed as a fan with wide ribs where avenues meet at the Square of the Civic Center. Its geographical location, distant from other urban centers in the Country, resulted in a village of small proportions. However, its small population is always very helpful and hospitable. Besides, it has a very pleasant weather and large green spaces, where thick and dense mango trees and other big-sized trees called the visitor's attention. Its main attractions are fresh-water beaches, located alongside of the Branco River, near the Ponte dos Macuxis; and Museum of the Indian, located in Anaua Park.

Featuring a vast hydrographic network belonging to the Amazon basin, where rivers such as Branco, Uraricoeira, Catrimani, Alalaú and Tacutu stand out, the state of Roraima borders Venezuela and Guyana.

The Uraricoeira River contains the Maracá Island, a natural reserve with 92 hectares and specimens of herons, wolves and buffalos. Boca do Inferno is the main beach, with dark sands and may only be reached after a journey through a natural gap, the Igarapé do Inferno, which divides the island in two different parts. A nice excursion for those who enjoy eco-tourism and adventure tourism.

Where Tacutu and Uraricoeira Rivers meet, you find the ruins of São Joaquim Fortress, built in the 18th century. There are two options for those who want to reach that historical site: embark in one-hour boat journey or do it by highway.

Near the border with Guyana, you find the Caracaranã lake. Its shores are covered by Cashew Trees, making the landscape very beautiful, even though the access might be difficult.

Although the state of Roraima occupies only 2.7% of Brazil, one of the highest mountains in the country is found there, Roraima Mountain, 2,727 m high, within the National Park of Monte Roraima.

While activities related to vegetable and mineral extraction –its lands concentrate large areas rich in ore like gold, diamonds, cassiterite, bauxite, copper, sand, clay and granite- constitute the main source of resources in the state, the economy is also largely based in agriculture production of corn, rice and manioc and in breeding bovine and pigs.

The state of Roraima also contains the largest indigenous population in Brazil, among which Yanomamis stand out. In the beginning of 1990, 42% of the state territory was turned into reserves for almost 30 thousand Indians, almost 10% of the population, remaining from Macuxis, Jaricunas, Uapixana, Angaricó, Macu, Manhongon and Jauaperi tribes.

The state of Roraima is full of surprises. Come here and enjoy!

Services:
Tourism Secretary of the state of Roraima
http://www.cei.rr.gov.br/detur