What Countries Border Brazil?

Brazil
credit: Yay

Brazil, the largest country in South America, is a land of astounding beauty and diversity, from its rich culture to its breathtaking natural wonders. But have you ever wondered what countries border Brazil?

From natural wonders like waterfalls and rivers to the intricacies of border disputes and the diversity of neighboring nations, Brazil’s borders are a fascinating topic worth exploring.

Brazil is encircled by ten South American countries: Argentina, Bolivia, Paraguay, Uruguay, Peru, Colombia, Venezuela, Guyana, Suriname, and French Guiana, which is an overseas department of France. While the eastern side of Brazil is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean.

How Many Countries Share A Border With Brazil?

Brazil, the South American giant, is bordered by ten of the continent’s neighbors. These neighboring countries contribute to Brazil’s cultural diversity and play essential roles in shaping its regional dynamics, trade, and international relations.

Each brings its unique flavor to the South American tapestry, making Brazil a fascinating country to explore from a geographical and cultural perspective.

Argentina

To the southwest of Brazil lies Argentina, with a border that stretches for approximately 1,261 kilometers and is marked by the Paraná River. This river also hosts the mesmerizing Iguazu Falls, shared by both countries, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

These three states, Parana, Santa Catarina, and Rio Grande do Sul, share its border with Argentina.

The main border crossing is between the Brazilian town of Pacaraima and the Argentine town of Paso de los Libres.

Travelers can cross this border by car or bus. Requirements typically include a valid passport or identity card, and customs checks may apply.

Bolivia

Westward, Brazil shares its longest border, approximately 3,423 kilometers, with Bolivia. This extensive border region has diverse landscapes, including dense forests and high plateaus.

Brazil’s border with Bolivia encompasses several states, including Acre, Rondônia, Mato Grosso, and Mato Grosso do Sul.

The main border crossing points between Brazil and Bolivia include the town of Assis Brasil on the Brazilian side, which connects to the Bolivian city of Cobija. Additionally, there’s a border crossing in the town of Guajará-Mirim on the Brazilian side, connecting to the Bolivian city of Guayaramerín.

Travelers can cross by road; documentation such as a passport or identity card is usually required.

Paraguay

The border with Paraguay extends south of Brazil for about 1,365 kilometers. The Parana River plays a significant role in demarcating this boundary. Notably, the Itaipu Dam, one of the world’s largest hydroelectric power plants, is located on this river bordering the two countries.

The state of Mato Grosso do Sul shares its border with Paraguay.

A key crossing point is Foz do Iguaçu in Brazil and Ciudad del Este in Paraguay, accessible by road. Travelers generally need a valid passport or identity card, and customs procedures apply.

Uruguay

Brazil’s southern neighbor, Uruguay, shares a border of roughly 1,068 kilometers. This border is marked by the Jaguarão River in the southern region, forming a natural boundary between the two countries.

Brazil’s border with Uruguay is adjacent to the state of Rio Grande do Sul.

Notable border crossings include the town of Jaguarão on the Brazilian side, which connects to the Uruguayan city of Rio Branco, connected by road. Travelers typically require a valid passport or identity card, and customs checks may be in place.

Peru

In the west, Brazil shares a border of about 2,995 kilometers with Peru. This region includes the Amazon Rainforest, with the Amazon River forming a substantial part of the natural border. The Brazil-Peru Integration Bridge connects the two countries through Assis Brasil to Iñapari in Peru.

The Brazilian states of Acre and Amazonas share borders with Peru. Travelers can cross by road, and passports or identity cards are necessary.

Colombia

Brazil’s northwest border with Colombia spans approximately 1,644 kilometers. The borderline primarily runs through dense Amazon rainforests. While there are no direct road connections between the two countries due to lush rainforests, the main border crossing between Colombia and Brazil is located in the town of Tabatinga on the Brazilian side and Leticia on the Colombian side.

Brazil shares its border with Colombia in the state of Amazonas. Crossing the border is accessible by air and typically requires a valid passport.

Venezuela

The northern border between Brazil and Venezuela covers about 2,200 kilometers and is characterized by the expansive Guiana Highlands. The recognized borderline runs through much of the two country’s remote wilderness. Brazil’s BR-174 highway is the only road connecting the Pacaraima towns in Brazil and Santa Elena de Uairén in Venezuela.

The Brazilian states of Amazonas and Roraima share borders with Venezuela. A valid passport is usually required for travelers, and customs procedures apply.

Guyana

To the north, the border with Guyana is approximately 1,606 kilometers. It includes the Takutu River Bridge, which connects the two countries by Lethem in Guyana and Bonfim in Brazil. Guyana borders two of Brazil’s states, Pará and Roraima.

Brazil’s border with Guyana is in the states of Roraima and Pará.

There are few official road connections, but travelers can also access Guyana via Boa Vista in Brazil and Georgetown in Guyana by plane, typically needing a valid passport.

Suriname

Suriname, located north of Brazil, shares a border of about 593 kilometers with two Brazilian States, Amapá and Pará. The border boundary is marked by a drainage divide.

There are limited official road connections. However, travelers can access Suriname via Manaus in Brazil and Paramaribo in Suriname by plane, typically requiring a valid passport.

French Guiana

The northern coastal state of French Guiana, an overseas department of France, shares a shorter border with the Brazilian State of Amapá, around 750 kilometers, with Brazil. The border crossing is the Oyapock River Bridge between the town of Oiapoque in Brazil and Saint Goerge in French Guiana.

Which Country Has The Longest And Shortest Border With Brazil?

Among its neighbors, Brazil shares its longest land border with Bolivia, stretching over 3,423 kilometers. On the other hand, its shortest border is with French Guiana, spanning only 750 kilometers.

CountryBorder Length TotalBordering States and Border Length  
French Guiana750km  Amapá750 km
Suriname593km  Amapá Pará52 km 541 km
Guyana1606kmPará Roraima642 km 964 km
Venezuela2200kmAmazonas Roraima885 km 1315 km
Colombia1644kmAmazonas1644 km
Peru2995kmAcre Amazonas1565 km 1430 km
Bolivia3423kmAcre Mato Grosso Mato Grosso do Sul Rondônia666 km 902 km 398 km 1457 km
Paraguay1365kmMato Grosso do Sul Paraná1180 km 185 km
Argentina1261kmParaná Rio Grande do Sul Santa Catarina296 km 250 km 715 km
Uruguay1068kmRio Grande do Sul1068 km
More information about the States of Brazil
States of Brazil
Yay States of Brazil

Brazil’s Atlantic Ocean border is a defining feature of the country, stretching over approximately 7,491 kilometers along its eastern and northeastern coastlines. This extensive maritime boundary connects Brazil to the vast expanse of the Atlantic. It plays a critical role in the nation’s identity, economy, and environment.

Countries Sharing Rivers And Waterfalls With Brazil

Brazil’s borders are more than just lines on a map. They are intertwined with natural wonders and happen to share their borders with several neighboring countries in South America. Many of these border regions are blessed with abundant natural beauty, including rivers and waterfalls.

These shared waterways and cascades define the boundaries between nations and create stunning landscapes that attract travelers and nature enthusiasts worldwide.

The Iguazu Falls, one of the world’s largest waterfalls, straddles the borders of Brazil and Argentina, offering breathtaking views from both sides.

Neighboring CountriesShared RiversNotable Shared Waterfalls  
ArgentinaIquaza River Uruguay River Periri-Guazu River San Antonio RiverIguazu Falls
BoliviaAbuna River Acre River Madeira River 
ParaguayApa River Paraguay River 
UruguayUruguay River Chui Stream Jaguarão River Quaraí River 
PeruAcre River Javary River Santa Rosa River 
ColombiaApaporis River Traíra River Papurí River Vaupés River Içana River 
GuyanaTakutu River Ireng River 
French GuianaOiapoque River 

6 Tripoints Of Brazil

A triple point or tripoint is where three countries meet. Each tripoint possesses its own distinctive characteristics and significance. In some cases, it’s a remarkable spot where travelers can stand in multiple countries at once.

1. Triple Frontier Tripoint

A unique feature is the Iguazu Falls, one of the world’s largest and most breathtaking waterfall systems, is nearby. It’s a fascinating UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist attraction shared by Brazil and Argentina.

  • Located near the city of Foz do Iguaçu in Brazil.
  • This tripoint connects Brazil, Argentina, and Paraguay.

2. Pantanal Matogrossense Tripoint

The Pantanal Wetlands is the world’s largest tropical wetland area and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. It’s renowned for its exceptional biodiversity and is a paradise for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts.

  • It is situated in the Pantanal region, near the town of Corumbá in Brazil.
  • This tripoint connects Brazil, Bolivia, and Paraguay.

3. Tres Fonteras Tripoint

The Amazon Basin is one of the most biodiverse regions globally, home to countless species of plants and animals. It’s crucial for the world’s climate and contains indigenous communities with unique cultures.

  • It is located in the Amazon rainforest, near the Javari River.
  • This tripoint connects Brazil, Peru, and Colombia.

4. Mount Roraima Tripoint

Mount Roraima is a flat-topped tepui (table-top mountain) and one of the most iconic geological formations in the world. It’s known for its unique ecosystem with numerous endemic species and inspired Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s novel The Lost World.

  • Located at the summit of Mount Roraima,
  • Straddles the borders of Brazil, Venezuela, and Guyana.

5. Assis Brasil Tripoint

The region around Assis Brasil is part of the Amazon rainforest and is home to diverse flora and fauna. It’s a gateway to the remote and pristine areas of the Amazon Basin.

  • Situated near the town of Assis Brasil in the state of Acre, Brazil.
  • This tripoint connects Brazil, Peru, and Bolivia.

6. Brazilian Island Tripoint

The Brazilian Island tripoint is situated in a unique border area where you can observe a blend of Brazilian, French, and Surinamese cultures. The region is known for its multiculturalism and natural beauty, including the lush rainforests of French Guiana.

  • It is located on the Brazilian Island of the Oyapock River, near Saint-Georges in French Guiana.
  • This tripoint connects Brazil, France (French Guiana), and Suriname.