Brazil Travel Guide

Overview

Capital:

Brasília.

Geography:

Brazil covers almost half of the South American continent and it is bordered to the north, west and south by all South American countries except Chile and Ecuador; to the east is the Atlantic ocean. The country is topographically relatively flat; at no point do the highlands exceed 3,000m (10,000ft). Over 60% of the country is a plateau; the remainder consists of plains. The River Plate Basin (the confluence of the Paraná and Uruguay rivers, both of which have their sources in Brazil) in the far south is more varied, higher and less heavily forested.

North of the Amazon are the Guiana Highlands, partly forested, partly stony desert. The Brazilian Highlands of the interior, between the Amazon and the rivers of the south, form a vast tableland, the Mato Grosso, from which rise mountains in the southwest that form a steep protective barrier from the coast called the Great Escarpment, breached by deeply cut river beds. The population is concentrated in the southeastern states of Minas Gerais, Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo. The city of São Paulo has a population of over 12 million, while over 7 million people live in the city of Rio de Janeiro.

Getting There

Getting There By Air

Flights to Brazil are served by the main national carriers LATAM (www.latam.com), Azul (www.voeazul.com.br) and Gol (www.voegol.com.br).

Major airports are: Rio de Janeiro-Galeao (Antonio Carlos Jobim International Airport, Salvador International Airport, Sao Paulo-Guarulhos International Airport and Brasilia International Airport.

Departure Tax

None.

Flight Times

To São Paulo: from London - 11 hours 45 minutes; New York - 9 hours 30 minutes.

To Rio de Janeiro: from London - 11 hours 30 minutes; New York - 9 hours 45 minutes.

Getting There By Road

It is possible to drive or travel by bus to Brazil from all surrounding countries. Entry points include the border with Argentina and Paraguay near to Foz de Iguaçu, the border with Uruguay at Jaguarão and from Venezuela via Santa Elena de Uairén.

There are plenty of bus routes from surrounding countries, and there are regular services to Brazil from Montevideo (Uruguay), Buenos Aires (Argentina), Asunción (Paraguay), Santiago (Chile), and Lima (Peru). Several reputable bus companies offer international connections, including Pluma (tel: +55 41 3212 2689, www.pluma.com.br) and Crucero del Norte (tel: +54 11 5258 5000, in Argentina; www.crucerodelnorte.com.ar).

Getting There By Water

The main passenger port is Rio de Janeiro (www.portosrio.gov.br), which is used by many international cruise ships. Other popular ports include Santos in Sao Paulo (www.portodesantos.com.br), Manaus (www.portodemanaus.com.br), Fortaleza (www.docasdoceara.com.br), Recife (www.portodorecife.pe.gov.br), Salvador (www.codeba.com.br) and Vitória.

Passenger services on cargo vessels are limited but Grimaldi Freighter (tel: +39 081 496 444, in Italy; www.grimaldi-freightercruises.com) offers departures from European ports, including Tilbury, Antwerp and Hamburg. A specialist agency in the UK is The Cruise People (tel: +44 20 7723 2450; www.cruisepeople.co.uk). Most major international cruise lines sail to Brazilian ports.

Getting Around

Getting Around By Air

Brazil has one of the largest internal air networks in the world, and there are air services between all Brazilian cities. With such great distances between many of the most popular destinations, flying can be a worthwhile option, saving considerable time and money. Internal flights in Brazil are possible with the shuttle service between São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, a regular service from São Paulo to Brasília and a shuttle service from Brasília to Belo Horizonte.

At weekends and main holiday times (ie Christmas and Carnival) it is advisable to book seats as the services are well used. Panrotas (www.panrotas.com.br) gives all timetables and fares for internal air travel. Gol (www.voegol.com.br) and LATAM (www.latam.com) operate the largest number of domestic routes. Airport transfers are available between all major centres.

Air Travel Note

Always re-confirm flights (at least once); delays and over-bookings do happen. If you change any flights on your airpass be sure to cancel the original booking otherwise the airline may consider it a ‘no-show’ and cancel all your other flights.

Bike

Brazil is not a bicycle-friendly country on the whole; only a few cities, such as Rio de Janeiro and Curitiba, have dedicated bicycle lanes. Rio has a bikeshare system, Mobilicidade (www.mobilicidade.com.br). São Paulo's scheme is called Bike Sampa (www.mobilicidade.com.br/bikesampa.asp).

In view of the vast distances, heavy traffic and aggressive driving practices, cycling around the country is not recommended for most visitors.

Breakdown Services

In the event of a breakdown contact your car hire provider. For emergencies call 193.

Car Hire

International companies operate from major airports and main city centres; the most common are Avis and Hertz. Localiza (tel: 0800 979 2000, in Brazil only; www.localiza.com.br) is one of the main Brazilian companies. Drivers are generally required to be at least 21 years old.

Coach

Long-distance coach travel is a great way to get around Brazil, with an excellent network of inter-city routes offered by hundreds of different companies. Fares are economical and coaches are safe and comfortable, with all the usual modern facilities.

Luxury overnight services (leitos) connect the major cities and popular destinations such as Foz do Iguaçu. There are no nationwide companies, but all cities have a central bus station (rodoviaria), where you can book your journey in advance with a choice of operators.

Documentation

An International Driving Permit is usually required, although foreign licences are also accepted by most major car hire companies.

Getting Around By Rail

Passenger rail connections in Brazil are virtually non-existent, apart from a few inner-city commuter lines in São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro. A few scenic tourist lines still run, notably the Serra Verde Express (www.serraverdeexpress.com.br) operating services from Curitiba to Morretes in Paraná, and from Campo Grande to Miranda in the Pantanal.

Regulations

The minimum driving age is 18. The speed limit is 120kph (74mph) on most national highways and 30-90kph (19-55mph) in urban areas. Passing on the right is forbidden. Seat belts must be worn by drivers and passengers. Drivers may use only ‘hands-free’ phone operation while at the wheel.

Getting Around By Road

There is no shortage of roadside filling stations; those on major routes have lanchonetes (diners) and other facilities, often open 24 hours.

Road Classification

Federal highways crisscross the country between major cities and are denoted by the letters BR plus a number. BR-101 is the longest in the country, running for nearly 4,800km (2,980 miles), from Natal south to Florianópolis, via Rio de Janeiro.

Smaller roads take the initials of the state (eg RJ for Rio de Janeiro) plus a number.

Road Quality

Road conditions vary; state roads and toll roads are generally very good, though lesser routes (including federal roads) are often liable to damage from heavy rain, including potholes and fallen trees. Drivers should also look out for road humps, which can damage the underside of vehicles if taken too fast. Wandering domestic animals, particularly in rural areas, are another hazard.

Traffic jams within cities are common, particularly during rush hours and before long weekends.

Side Of Road

r

Taxi

All major cities have plenty of taxis, particularly recommended late at night. Official taxis, such as the distinctive yellow-and-blue Rio taxis, are the most reliable. Mini-cabs, with pre-paid tickets, are also available at international airports.

Taxis are metered and passengers should insist that the meter is turned on: the day-time rate is shown by a little flag marked 1 on top of the meter. The higher rate (after 2000, on Sundays and bank holidays) is shown by a flag marked 2. Outside of cities and main tourist sites, taxis may not have meters, in which case agree on the fare in advance. Tipping taxi drivers is not normal practice.

Urban Travel

There are extensive and economical bus services in all the main centres, often also with air-conditioned express executive coaches running airport-to-downtown shuttle services at premium fares. Buses in major cities, including Rio, are massively overcrowded in rush hour however, and crime is a common problem, particularly at night.

São Paulo has a modern metro subway system, and Rio has a three-line metro. Though both systems are relatively small, the trains are clean, safe, economical and reliable. Fares are generally regulated, with interchange links between key bus and metro/rail lines, for instance on the MetroBus feeder bus linking the Rio metro with Copacabana.

Getting Around By Water

Ferries serve most coastal ports. One company, Barcas (tel: 0800 721 1012, in Brazil only; www.barcas-sa.com.br), operates ferries between Rio de Janeiro and Niterói, and between Angra dos Reis and Ilha Grande. The daily commuter ferry to and from Niterói is very popular, offering amazing views of Guanabara Bay, and much quicker than the long and often traffic-clogged road route.

River transport is the most efficient method of travel in the Amazon Delta. The main hub is Manaus, with ferries going eastwards along the Rio Amazonas, to Belém and Santarém, or upriver from Manaus on the Rio Solimões towards the Colombian border at Tabatinga. Many different companies offer regular departures from Manaus, operating out of the main port, Estação Hidroviária (www.portodemanaus.com.br), near to the Mercado Municipal.

Travel Advice

Areas where FCDO advises against all but essential travel   

Amazonas State

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the following river areas towards the west of Amazonas State:  

• along the Amazonas (Amazon) River and its tributaries west of the town of Codajás and east of the town of Belém do Solimões in Amazonas State
• along any part of the Itaquaí River in Amazonas State
• along any part of the Japurá River or its tributaries in Amazonas State
• along the Rio Negro (Black River) and its tributaries north or west of the town of Barcelos in Amazonas State

Find out more about why FCDO advises against travel.

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to: 

• see general advice for women travellers
• read our guide on disability and travel abroad
• see general advice for LGBT+ travellers
• read about safety for solo and independent travel
• see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

About FCDO travel advice

FCDO provides advice about risks of travel to help you make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice.

Get travel advice updates 

Sign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.  

Follow and contact FCDO:    

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This information is for people travelling on a full 'British citizen' passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government's understanding of Brazil's current rules for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Brazil set and enforce entry rules. If you're not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Brazilian Embassy in the UK.

Passport validity requirements

To enter Brazil, your passport must have an 'expiry date' at least 6 months after the date you arrive.

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Visa requirements

You can visit Brazil without a visa for up to 90 days for tourism.

If you want to extend your tourist visa, contact the Federal Police (in Portuguese) before your visa expires.

For more information about visas, contact the Brazilian Consulate in London.

If you overstay your visa, you'll face a daily fine. You have the option to pay this fine either when you leave Brazil or during your next visit.

Make sure the border control officer puts a stamp in your passport. If it is not stamped, you may be fined when you leave.

Read about passport stamping if you live in Brazil (in Portuguese).  

British-Brazilian dual nationals

Brazilian immigration authorities often require dual British-Brazilian nationals visiting Brazil to travel on Brazilian (rather than British) passports.

Travelling with children

Children with dual British-Brazilian citizenship

British-Brazilian dual nationals under the age of 18 who are travelling without both parents or legal guardians need authorisation from both parents or legal guardians to travel in Brazil or leave the country. Read more about the formal travel authorisation process for Brazilian minors and the frequently asked questions.

Children who are not dual British-Brazilian nationals

Families of non-Brazilian under-18s travelling through Brazil without one or both parents should follow the instructions for dual British-Brazilian under-18s. Make sure the under-18 or their travelling companion also carries the original or notarised copy of the under-18's birth certificate. Contact the Brazilian Consulate in London for more information.

Vaccine requirements

For details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro's Brazil guide.

Customs rules  

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Brazil. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty. 

Taking money into Brazil 

If you are bringing cash or travellers cheques into Brazil with a value of 10,000 US dollars or more, you will need to declare it online.

This guide also has safety advice for regions of Brazil.

Terrorism

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.

Terrorism in Brazil

Terrorist attacks in Brazil cannot be ruled out.

On 13 November 2024, two explosions occurred at the Praça dos Três Poderes in central Brasilia. You should exercise caution around major sites in large Brazilian cities.

Protests and civil unrest

Protests, demonstrations and strikes take place regularly in cities across Brazil. Even peaceful events can sometimes turn confrontational and escalate into violence. Police have used rubber bullets and tear gas extensively to disperse protesters.

You should:

• avoid political rallies or protests
• follow local news reports
• comply with the instructions of local authorities

If you encounter a protest or feel uncomfortable in a large gathering, leave the area immediately.

Favelas

Favelas ('slum' or 'shanty town') are urban neighbourhoods of high-density informal housing. They exist in all major Brazilian cities and can border areas used by tourists and visitors. 

The security situation in many favelas is unpredictable and can be dangerous. Tourists have been shot after accidentally entering favelas.

You should:

• avoid all favelas, including favela tours marketed to tourists and any accommodation, restaurants or bars advertised as being within a favela
• if you're using GPS navigation, make sure the suggested route does not take you into a favela

If you're unsure about a location, check with your hotel or the local authorities.

Crime

If you're the victim of crime, contact the local police number 190 or the nearest British embassy or consulate.

Read our guidance if you're the victim of a crime abroad.

Theft and robbery

Robberies are common in many cities, particularly on buses. Thieves target mobile phones, particularly between 4pm and 9pm. Attackers may be armed and under the influence of drugs. Do not resist attackers. If threatened, hand over your valuables without resistance.

Thefts are particularly common on public beaches and include 'arrastões' where large groups of thieves run through an area of the beach grabbing possessions. Keep your belongings close and avoid taking valuables to the beach. Do not go on to city beaches after dark.

Pickpocketing is common.

Criminals target large-scale celebrations in Brazil, such as the Carnival in major cities. Be aware of your personal security and surroundings. Be cautious about proposals from strangers that take you away from public areas.

To reduce your risk:

• avoid wearing expensive jewellery and watches
• avoid carrying large sums of money
• avoid using a mobile phone in the street
• leave your passport and valuables in a safe place

Criminal Kidnapping 

Short-term opportunistic kidnapping (called 'express kidnapping') can happen.  Victims have been kidnapped for a short period of time and driven to an ATM to withdraw money before being abandoned. Express kidnappers may use violence.

Scams

Bank and credit card scams are common, including card cloning from ATMs and in shops. Keep sight of your card and do not use an ATM if you notice anything suspicious.

If you withdraw cash at an ATM and the cash has pink marks on it, speak to the bank (or police) straight away to get it changed. It may have been marked as damaged or counterfeit.

Sexual assault and drink spiking

Rape and other sexual offences against tourists are not common, but there have been attacks against both women and men. Some have involved date rape drugs. Buy your own drinks and keep them in sight.

If you begin to feel strange, sick or drunk after only a couple of drinks, tell a trusted friend or security staff. They should take you to a safe place, such as your hotel room or a hospital. You can phone the local police, a hospital or the nearest British embassy or consulate for advice.

Read our advice on what to do if you have been raped, sexually assaulted or drugged abroad.

Child sexual abuse

There are cases of sexual abuse of children in Brazil. All sexual activity with children (people under the age of 18) is illegal, regardless of the age of consent locally. If you commit sex offences against children abroad, you can be prosecuted in the UK.

Parental child abduction

Parental child abduction is not common but can happen in Brazil. Dial 190 to report a missing child or go to the nearest police station. Read the guidance on international parental child abduction if your child may be at risk of this.    

Carjacking

Theft from cars is common. Keep valuables out of sight.

Carjacking can happen, particularly on major roads and in tunnels. To reduce your risk:

• approach your car with your keys in your hand so you can get into your car quickly
• keep doors locked and windows closed
• take particular care at traffic lights
• be cautious of people approaching to ask for information, especially at night
• if driving at night outside the city, avoid stopping at the roadside – if you must stop, try to stop in a well-lit area

Organised crime and militias 

Organised crime groups and militias operate in Brazil, including in many cities. Armed incidents, including police operations, can occur with little warning. Be aware of your surroundings. Avoid favelas and suburbs where possible.

Laws and cultural differences

Personal ID 

Always carry a copy of your passport and another form of photo ID if you have one.

Illegal drugs and trafficking scams

Drug trafficking is widespread in Brazil. It is illegal and the penalties are severe.

British nationals have been targeted through email scams where fraudsters offer a financial reward for travelling to Brazil, where they are then asked to carry items out of Brazil, including to the UK. These items are often illegal drugs. Anyone caught will face detention for drug trafficking, regardless of the circumstances.

Electronic smoking devices

All electronic cigarettes and vaping devices are illegal in Brazil, including refills, parts and accessories.

Customs officials have the authority to confiscate any vape products found in travellers' luggage (both checked in and carry on) during inspections.

LGBT+ travellers

There is no legislation against same-sex sexual activity in Brazil. Same-sex marriage is legal and LGBT+ couples have equal rights in law.

São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro and other cities hold Pride events, which attract large numbers. These events are usually very peaceful.

Brazil is generally tolerant. However, Brazilian society is quite conservative, particularly outside the larger towns and cities. There are reports of discrimination, violence and harassment against the LGBT+ community. Urban areas are usually more accepting. 

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers.

Outdoor activities and adventure tourism

Swimming safety

Strong currents can be a danger off some beaches. Get local advice before going in the water. Pay attention to warning flags and the location of lifeguards if present on the beach.

Shark attacks are a danger, particularly on the beaches around Recife in north-east Brazil. Pay attention to warning signs and consult lifeguards if unsure. Sharks have been known to attack in waist-deep water and deaths have occurred.

See water safety on holiday from the Royal Life Saving Society.

Transport risks

Road travel

If you are planning to drive in Brazil, see information on driving abroad.

You can use a UK photocard driving licence to drive in Brazil. If you still have a paper driving licence, you may need to update it to a photocard licence or get the 1968 version of the international driving permit (IDP) as well. You cannot buy an IDP outside the UK, so get one before you travel.

After 180 days, you need to apply for a Brazilian driving licence.

Driving standards

Brazil has a high road accident rate. Driving standards are poor. Take care on the roads and avoid riding bicycles. In many rural areas, roads are in poor condition away from the main highways. Bus and coach crashes are frequent.

Immediately report all accidents to the police: call 190 or go to a police station.

Contact the police if vehicles are obstructing traffic and you need help.

Drink-driving

Drink-driving is a serious offence in Brazil and checkpoints are often set up. If you're caught driving under the influence of alcohol, you will be prosecuted. Penalties range from fines and a suspension from driving for 12 months, to up to 3 years in prison.

Air travel

If you have been a victim of a passport theft and you need to fly to Brasilia, São Paulo or Rio de Janeiro for consular services, you can travel on domestic flights with a valid photo ID or a police report.   

Check whether your tour operator has concerns about airlines in Brazil.

Sea travel

There have been armed and unarmed attacks on merchant vessels, including British flag vessels off the Brazilian coast and in some Brazilian ports.

Rail travel

There have been instances of theft and robbery on the rail network, including urban metro rail networks. Avoid wearing expensive jewellery and watches or using a mobile phone during train travel.

Extreme weather and natural disasters

Find out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards.

Heavy rainfall 

The rainy season runs from November until March in the south and south-east of Brazil (including Rio de Janeiro) and from April until July in the north-east of Brazil. However heavy rainfall and flooding can also occur outside of the designated rainy seasons, in any region of the country.

Heavy rainfall often disrupts infrastructure, particularly in rural areas. Flash floods and landslides are common in regions where mountains are close to the coast, such as Rio de Janeiro. This includes in tourist areas. People have drowned when swept away in fast flowing water. Cars and buses have been caught in landslides, resulting in deaths.

Monitor local media and follow local authority warnings which are displayed on digital street signs and sent to hotels and hostels. Follow any instructions given by the local authorities. Avoid travelling on the road during heavy rain. If you are outside when the rain starts, avoid walking in flooded areas, and do not cross fast flowing water, however shallow you think it is.

Forest fires

Forest fires are common from May to September, especially during July and August due to the dry season. They are highly dangerous and unpredictable. Check the latest alerts and weather forecast (in Portuguese) and follow the advice of local authorities if you're considering travelling to affected areas.

This section has safety advice for regions of Brazil. It only covers regions where FCDO has specific advice. You should also read FCDO's overall travel advice and safety and security advice.

Amazonas State 

River travel 

FCDO advises against all but essential travel:   

• along the Amazonas (Amazon) River and its tributaries west of the town of Codajás and east of the town of Belém do Solimões in Amazonas State 

• along any part of the Itaquaí River in Amazonas State 

• along any part of the Japurá River or its tributaries in Amazonas State 

• along the Rio Negro (Black River) and its tributaries north or west of the town of Barcelos in Amazonas State 

There are risks to travellers in river areas towards the west of Amazonas State, where Brazil shares borders with Colombia, Peru and Venezuela, due to criminal activity. Armed groups, including pirates and drug traffickers, travel by the river routes in the Amazonas state where is there is low presence of police and local authorities.

Rio de Janeiro

The most common incidents affecting British nationals in Rio de Janeiro are thefts and pickpocketing around:

• Copacabana beach
• Ipanema beach
• Lapa
• Santa Teresa

Tourists have reported armed robberies on the Corcovado walking trail to the Christ the Redeemer statue. See our advice on Theft and robbery.

São Paulo

The most common incidents affecting British nationals in São Paulo are thefts or pickpocketing around:

• Avenida Paulista
• the historical downtown area
• the red light districts located on Rua Augusta (north of Avenida Paulista)
• Catedral da Sé
• Praça da República
• the Estacao de Luz metro area (where Cracolandia is located)

See our advice on Theft and robbery.

Brasilia

Theft

In Brasilia, the central bus station area has a lot of incidents of theft. Theft from pedestrians also happens across the city, especially in the central and southern commercial centres. Take particular care at these locations. See our advice on Theft and robbery.

North-east Brazil

Theft

The most common incidents affecting British nationals in north-east Brazil are theft from hotel and motel rooms and muggings. Reduce the risk of being mugged by avoiding quiet or deserted areas and by using taxis after sunset instead of walking. See our advice on Theft and robbery.

Before you travel check that:

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
• you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

Call 192 and ask for an ambulance.

Contact your insurance company quickly if you're referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Vaccine recommendations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip:

• check the latest vaccination recommendations for Brazil
• see where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

See what health risks you'll face in Brazil, including:

• yellow fever
• dengue
• chikungunya
• oropouche
• high UV levels

Altitude sickness is a risk in parts of Brazil. Read more about altitude sickness on TravelHealthPro. 

Medication

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.

If you're taking medication, bring a prescription or letter from your doctor confirming your need to carry the medication. Bring enough to last your whole trip, as some medicines may not be available locally. Counterfeit drugs can be an issue, so it's better to travel with your own supplies.

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro.

Healthcare in Brazil

Foreign nationals are entitled to emergency medical treatment in Brazilian public hospitals. Public hospitals in Brazil, especially in major cities, tend to be overcrowded and there's often a long wait for a bed and a lack of medication. Private hospitals will not accept you unless you can show evidence of enough money or insurance to cover your treatment.

FCDO has a list of medical providers in Brazil where some staff will speak English.  

There is also guidance on healthcare if you're living in Brazil.

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro.

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.

Emergency services in Brazil

Ambulance: 192

Fire: 193

Police: 190 or 911

Contact your travel provider and insurer

Contact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.

Refunds and changes to travel

For refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first.

Find out more about changing or cancelling travel plans, including:

• where to get advice if you are in a dispute with a provider
• how to access previous versions of travel advice to support a claim

Support from FCDO

FCDO has guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including:

• finding English-speaking lawyers and funeral directors in Brazil
• dealing with a death in Brazil
• being arrested or imprisoned in Brazil
• getting help if you're a victim of rape or sexual assault in Brazil
• getting help if you're a victim of crime
• what to do if you're in hospital
• if you're affected by a crisis, such as a terrorist attack

Contacting FCDO  

Help abroad   

See how to get help from the UK government abroad including in an emergency.  

Help in the UK   

You can call FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.   

Telephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)   

Find out about call charges 

Get travel advice updates   

Sign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.   

Follow and contact FCDO:  

• travel advice on X 

• travel advice on Facebook

Risk information for British companies

The Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating in Brazil on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks.

Vaccinations

Title	Special Precautions
Diphtheria	Yes
Hepatitis A	Yes
Malaria	Sometimes*
Rabies	Sometimes
Tetanus	Yes
Typhoid	Yes
Yellow Fever	Yes**

Overview:

Brazil is considered to have a high risk of Zika virus transmission. The mosquito-borne illness can be spread from a pregnant woman to her unborn baby as well as through sexual contact. The World Health Organisation recommends travellers to Brazil protect themselves from mosquito bites and suggests wearing clothes (preferably light-coloured) that cover as much of the body as possible, sleeping under mosquito nets and using repellents that contain DEET (diethyltoluamide), IR 3535 ((3- [N-butyl-N-acetyl], aminopropionic acid ethyl-ester) or KBR3023 (also called Icaridin or Picaridin). Pregnant women are advised to postpone non-essential travel until after pregnancy and pregnant women whose sexual partners live in or travel to areas with Zika virus transmission should follow safe sexual practices or abstain from sex for the duration of their pregnancy. Women who are pregnant, at risk of getting pregnant, or planning pregnancy should seek further advice from their doctor before travelling to Brazil.

There is no reciprocal health agreement with the UK or USA. Full insurance is strongly recommended as medical costs are high. The standard of medical care is generally very good in major towns and cities. English-speaking medical staff are found mainly in São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro.

Public health care services in Brazil are free of charge, but may only be used by foreign tourists in the event of an emergency. The main hospital in São Paulo is the Hospital das Clínicas, while in Rio the Hospital Copa D’Or and the Hospital Samaritano are both well regarded. In the event of a medical emergency, call 192 for an ambulance.

Vaccinations Note:

* Malaria risk exists throughout the year at altitudes below 900m (2,953ft) in Acre, Amapá, Amazonas, Maranhão, Mato Grosso, Pará, Rondônia, Roraima and Tocantins states, as well as some larger cities, such as on the periphery of Pôrto Velho, Boa Vista, Macapá, Manaus, Santerém, Rio Branco and Maraba. 

** Brazil is currently experiencing an outbreak of yellow fever. The World Health Organisation recommend a vaccination against yellow fever for all international travellers visiting the states of Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo and Bahia. A yellow fever vaccination is also strongly recommended for those intending to visit rural areas and certain inland cities like Brasília. A vaccination certificate is required from all travellers arriving from Angola and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Food Drink:

Tap water should not be drunk unless boiled or sterilised first. Even filtered water in more remote areas should be avoided and bottled water should be drunk instead. Pasteurised milk and cheese is generally considered safe to consume. Milk outside of urban areas is unpasteurised and should be boiled; travellers should also be wary of products that could have been made with unpasteurised milk, such as ice cream. Only eat well-cooked meat and fish and avoid ice cubes in cold drinks. Vegetables should be cooked and fruit peeled.

Other Risks:

Bilharzia (schistosomiasis) is present within Brazil, as are several other infectious diseases such as chikungunya and dengue fever (which are more prevalent after rain in densely populated areas). There have also been cases of meningococcal meningitis in and around the Bahia area. Rabies is present; if you are bitten, seek medical advice without delay. If visiting remote parts of the Amazon or more rural villages, be sure to take the usual precautions, stocking up on mosquito repellent, sunscreen lotion and wearing suitable clothing.

Currency Information:

Real/Reais (BRL; symbol R$) = 100 centavos. Notes are in denominations of R$100, 50, 20, 10, 5 and 2. Coins are in denominations of R$1, and 50, 25, 10 and 5 centavos.

Credit Cards:

Most major international credit cards are accepted (Visa more so than other cards), though not universally; it is easier to pay by card in hotels, shops and restaurants located within the major cities.

ATMs:

There is an extensive network of ATMs around the country. Occasionally, getting cash from ATMs can be problematic with machines producing a sem comunicação error, which means they won't give out any cash. Some may find they have still been debited for the sum. Check your bank statement and get in touch with the ATM operator and your bank back home if you are having trouble withdrawing money.

Travellers Cheques:

Traveller's cheques are becoming increasingly difficult to cash and visitors will find that they often lose money when doing so. Withdrawing cash directly from ATMs is preferable. Banks will not cash traveller's cheques into foreign currency, (including US Dollars) but some hotels will accept payment in traveller's cheques.

Banking Hours:

Mon-Fri 1000-1600.

Currency Restrictions:

There are no restrictions on the import and export of foreign and local currency, but amounts higher than R$10,000 must be declared.

Currency Exchange:

All banks, casas de cambio, travel agencies and authorised hotels exchange recognised traveller's cheques and foreign currency. The US Dollar is the most widely accepted foreign currency.

If you wish to change back any left over reais, it is advised that you keep the initial receipt issued at the time of their purchase.

Currencies

Code	Symbol
BRL	R$

Exchange Rates

1.56

3.50

4.17

3.37

Language

The official language is Portuguese, with different regional accents characterising each state. Spanish, English, Italian, French and German are also spoken, particularly in tourist areas. Four linguistic roots survive in the indigenous areas: Gê, Tupi-guarani, Aruak and Karib.

Overview:

Public holidays are listed here.

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List Of Public Holidays

Title	Start Date	To Be Confirmed
New Year's Day	2024-01-01 00:00:00	0
Founding of Rio de Janeiro	2024-01-20 00:00:00	0
Founding of Ṣo Paulo	2024-01-25 00:00:00	0
Carnival	2024-02-12 00:00:00	0
Good Friday	2024-03-29 00:00:00	0
Tiradentes	2024-04-21 00:00:00	0
Labour Day	2024-05-01 00:00:00	0
Corpus Christi	2024-05-30 00:00:00	0
Independence Day	2024-09-07 00:00:00	0
Our Lady of Aparecida	2024-10-12 00:00:00	0
All Soul's Day	2024-11-02 00:00:00	0
Republic Day	2024-11-15 00:00:00	0
Christmas Eve	2024-12-24 00:00:00	0
Christmas Day	2024-12-25 00:00:00	0
New Year's Eve	2024-12-31 00:00:00	0

Overview:

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Banned Imports:

Prohibited imports include toy, replica and imitation firearms, illegal drugs, cigarettes and drinks manufactured in Brazil intended for sale abroad, unlicensed wildlife species, and counterfeit and pirated goods.

Restricted items which you must declare and have prior authorisation for include firearms and ammunition, drugs (other than prescribed drugs for personal use), animals, animal products, plants and seeds. 

Telephone:

Public telephones accept cartões telefônicos (telephone cards), which can be obtained from newspaper kiosks. International calls from Brazil are expensive and in most cases it will be cheaper to use VoIP services such as Skype for outbound international calls.

Mobile Telephone:

Mobile coverage is generally very good. Coverage is provided with a number of mobile phone carriers including Oi, Vivo, Claro, Tim, CTBC, Sercomtel and Nextel. Roaming agreements exist with most international mobile phone companies, but travellers should check with their service providers. An unlocked GSM tri- or quad-band cell phone works in Brazil, with SIM cards widely available. Sim cards can be bought at newsstands, shopping malls and a variety of other outlets. Minutes can be added via cartões pre-pago (prepaid cards), available at newspaper kiosks.

Internet:

Many hotels provide guests with internet access using Wi-Fi, although this may be added to the bill at the end of your stay. Internet cafés can be found in main towns and cities, and there are often internet booths at airports. In smaller towns, public access is sometimes available at post offices. 4G is available in over 140 Brazilian municipalities, including the 23 state capitals and the country's Federal District, which in total represent more than 40% of the country's population.

Post

Services are generally reliable. International Standard services to Europe take about one week. Surface mail takes at least four weeks.

Post Office Hours:

Mon-Fri 0800-1800; Sat 0800-1200.

Media:

Brazil's constitution guarantees a free press. There are thousands of radio stations and hundreds of TV channels in Brazil, South America's largest media market. Media ownership is highly concentrated and home-grown conglomerates such as Globo, Brazil's most successful broadcaster, dominate the market, operating TV and radio networks, newspapers and pay-TV. Brazilian dramas and soaps are exported around the world. Novelas (soap operas) and reality TV are hugely popular.

Browse the romantic backstreets of Paraty

Paraty is a delightful, historic town on the Costa Verde between Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo, which grew rich on the 18th-century gold trade. Its wealth is reflected today in the beautifully preserved colonial buildings such as Santa Rita Church, built by freed slaves. Paraty is a popular destination for schooner cruises around its bay and islands, and is well stocked with boutique hotels and gourmet restaurants.

Explore the historic missions of Rio Grande do Sul

Visit the redbrick ruins of 300-year-old Saõ Miguel das Missões, the only survivor of the once 30 Jesuit missions in southern Brazil, which formed an important role, defending the indigenous Guaraní people against colonial slavery. The building is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and, despite the ravages of time and neglect, is well worth seeing for its stylised Baroque architecture and historical interest.

Get the vibes of Salvador da Bahia

Explore colourful Salvador da Bahia, capital of the northeastern coastal state of Bahia. This UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts dozens of colonial-era buildings clustered around the cobblestone streets of Pelourinho. Salvador is one of Brazil's most culturally vibrant cities, spawning some of its best-known musicians, artists and writers, and hosting one of the best Carnivals in the country.

Explore the Amazon

Floating through the rainforest on an Amazonian ferry is one of the great travel experiences. The world's largest rainforest is fed by 10 of the world's 20 largest rivers, including the Amazon itself, which is the biggest river system on the planet. The usual base for trips is Manaus, but try Santarem for a lesser-known alternative.

Costa Verde islands and beaches

There are literally thousands of gorgeous islands and beaches along Brazil's coastline, including the chic resort of Búzios, and car-free Morro de São Paulo in Bahia. Tropical islands are liberally sprinkled off the Costa Verde between Rio and São Paulo; among the most idyllic are Ilha Grande and Ilhabela. The ultimate getaway island paradise though is Fernando de Noronha, 330 miles (540km) off the northeast coast.

Discover the eco-treasures of Diamantina National Park

Go hiking, river rafting or just chilling in the Chapada Diamantina National Park, deep in the mountains of Bahia in the northeast. This park is one of Brazil's ecotourism hotspots; an adventure playground full of forests, caves, underground lakes and waterfalls. Access to the park is via the nearby town of Capão, which attracts New Agers for its laidback alternative lifestyle.

Go diving off Fernando de Noronha

The deep blue waters of coastal Brazil are superb for diving, particularly in the north, where the sea is usually warmer and clearer. The protected marine park on the island of Fernando de Noronha has probably the best diving; also the Abrolhos Archipelago, off the coast of Bahia. Southern Brazil also has some excellent dive spots, including Arraial do Cabo, Ubatuba, and Laje de Santos.

See a football match at the Maracanã

Watch the belojogo (beautiful game) in Rio's world-famous Maracanã Stadium. With fans dancing, singing and pounding drums amid clouds of coloured smoke, the carnival atmosphere on the terraces sometimes overshadows the game itself. Football is a national obsession and matches are passionately noisy affairs.

Go hang gliding over Rio

Soar above the tropical landscape on a tandem hang-gliding flight from Pedra Bonita in Rio's Tijuca National Park. This popular adventure sport gives stunning bird's-eye views over the city and its forest backdrop before landing on São Conrado beach. Other hang-gliding sites include Niterói (across the bay from Rio), Corumbá (near the Pantanal), and Pico do Ibituruna in Minas Gerais.

Dance the Samba like a Carioca

You can learn how to do the samba, Brazil's most popular dance, in Rio de Janeiro, its spiritual heartland. Let a local show you the moves in an escola de samba, which opens to visitors a couple of months before Carnival. Or visit a traditional gafieira dancehall, where several generations of Cariocas gyrate across the floor with natural fluidity.

Wildlife watch in the Pantanal

This spectacularly rich ecosystem in west-central Brazil is home to big cats, reptiles and hundreds of exotic birds. The Pantanal's vast wetlands have wide-open savannah, which, unlike the Amazon's dense rainforests, allow easy viewing of their abundant wildlife. The dry season (April-October) is the best time to visit, when animals cluster around the waterholes and the birds are breeding.

Have a ball at Rio de Janeiro's Carnival

Witness the wonderful mayhem of one of the world's wildest parties. While Rio is most famed for the spectacular Carnival processions through its purpose-built downtown Sambódromo, the whole city joins in with samba school parties and fancy dress balls. The main events last three days but Cariocas keep the fun going all week.

Samba in the cobbled streets of Olinda

You can join the street parades in Olinda, a gorgeous coastal town in northeastern Brazil, renowned for hosting one of the country's most atmospheric carnivals. Olinda is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a well-preserved colonial quarter crammed with baroque architecture. It's also a popular haven for artists and musicians, with a large gay community.

Be dazzled by the precious gems of Minas Gerais

Discover some of Brazil's best-preserved colonial architecture in Minas Gerais, a region of southern Brazil, which became fabulously rich following the discovery of gold and diamonds in the 17th century. Ouro Preto, Mariana, Sabará and Diamantina are particular gems, with ornate Baroque churches and colonial mansions filled with religious art and sculpture.

Explore Manaus, gateway to the Amazon

In the heart of the rainforest, at the juncture of the great Solimões and Negro rivers, Manaus is Brazil's main entry point for Amazon safaris. Or you can explore some magnificent colonial treasures dating from the city's rubber boom era, including the Teatro Amazonas opera house and the art nouveau dockside market.

Explore the blissful beaches of the North

Bounce around the sand dunes of northern Brazil in a beach buggy. From the coastal resort city of Fortaleza, it's a four-hour drive to Jericoacoara, a picturesque village set between a dazzling white desert and a balmy turquoise sea. Ceará state has some of the best beaches in Brazil, with excellent conditions for watersports.

Join the non-stop party in Rio de Janeiro

Find out what makes this one of the happiest and hippest cities in the world. With buzzing Copacabana and Ipanema beaches, the mountain backdrop and the Cariocas' joyful spirit, what's not to love about Rio? Take it all in from the foot of the Christ the Redeemer statue or catch a cable car up Sugarloaf at sunset, as the city lights sparkle below – an unforgettable sight.

Wonder at Brazil’s stunning capital, Brasília

Often overlooked by visitors, Brasília is an architectural showpiece, of curvaceous modern buildings dominating the Planalto's flat horizons. The city was designed by world-renowned architect Oscar Niemeyer and many of his creations, including the Cathedral and National Congress, are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. There's also some great hiking country near the city, including the Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park.

Hit the cultural hotspots of São Paulo

Uber-cool Paulistanos boast of their city's better nightlife, art and, even, football teams, than their arch-rival, Rio de Janeiro. With world-class art galleries, live music and restaurants galore, Brazil's largest city certainly does have a lot to support its claim. The nearby beaches aren't bad either; Ilhabela island, for instance, has several gems.

Soak up the spray of mighty Iguaçu Falls

Set amid rainforest teeming with butterflies, birds and many other animals, these majestic waterfalls in southern Brazil are one of the great wonders of the Americas, with 275 individual falls encompassing a vast area protected by two national parks (one in neighbouring Argentina). The highest fall, the Garganta do Diabo (Devil's Throat) reaches 70m (230ft), which is one and a half times the height of Niagara Falls.

Overview

In Rio, São Paulo and other large cities, major shops and markets stay open quite late in the evening. Huge US-style shopping malls line suburban boulevards, offering the complete air-conditioned experience, with restaurants, cinemas and occasional live entertainment, though not usually the cheapest prices. Rio and Salvador specialise in antiques, handicrafts and jewellery. The state of Bahia has good Afro-Brazilian art, ceramics, soapstone carvings and musical instruments. Rio, with its love of the body beautiful, is the place to buy fashion clothing, particularly swimwear, flip-flops (Havaianas), and leather shoes, as well as cosmetics and other beauty products.

General specialities include gems (particularly emeralds and diamonds) and jewellery (particularly silver and gold); Minas Gerais, is the place to find bargains. Belém, Manaus and Santarém specialise in Amazonian items, including hammocks (redes) and wooden ornaments; visitors should be careful, however, not to purchase objects that have been plundered from the jungle, contributing to its general destruction. Manaus is also a free trade zone, selling all manner of high-tech goods, though with the current strength of the Brazilian Real, prices may be no lower than in Europe and the US.

Fairtrade eco-products are belatedly becoming more popular, for locally produced handicrafts, cosmetics and other sustainable products. O Sol (www.osolartesanato.org.br) is an excellent not-for-profit crafts organisation, which trains artisans from around Brazil, with an outlet in Rio.

Travellers should also be aware there may be restrictions on import to their home country of goods made from skins of protected species, particularly reptiles and wild cats.

Opening Hours

Mon-Sat 0900-1800.
Supermarkets are open Mon-Sat 0800-2200.
Major shopping centres also open on Sundays 1400-2000.
All the above times are subject to local variations and many shops open until late in the evening, especially in December.

Overview

Reflecting Brazil’s rich cultural melting pot, its cuisine is similarly diverse and flavoursome. Standards are generally very high, and there are dishes to cater for all tastes and appetites (huge portions in restaurants can usually feed two). European, North American, African, Middle Eastern and Asian foods are widely available in resorts and main cities.

The fruits and plants of the Amazon are widely available, such as the açai berry, served in cafes as a refreshing cool smoothie. Unsurprisingly for a country with a huge coastline and many rivers, fish and seafood are plentiful. Brazil’s African roots are strongest in the northeast, which specialises in spicy seafood stews, enriched with palm oil; while Amazonian freshwater fish are often turned into soups or steamed in palm leaves.

Although there is no definitive national dish, the hearty feijoada (a stew of beans, beef and pork) is a strong contender, and there are many traditional dishes and regional specialities.

Regional Specialities

Tipping

10% is usual for most services not included on the bill.

Drinking Age

18.

Hotels

Hotels in Brazil vary according to region. First-class accommodation in Brazil is largely restricted to the cities of the south and is generally expensive. There are also a number of pousadas: small, privately run guesthouses that are less expensive than the major hotels.

Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo and Brasília have many modern hotels, ranging from the very expensive deluxe to budget options. The Amazon Basin continues to develop as a tourist attraction and has numerous lodges.

Brazil offers some extremely impressive luxury hotels, such as design marvel Hotel Unique in São Paulo, the finely tuned Sofitel on Rio de Janeiro’s Copacabana beach front, and colonial Hotel Cataratas in Foz do Iguaçu, which also affords guests glorious out-of-hours visits to the waterfalls.

Grading:The Brazilian tourist board has a star-rating system (from 1- to 5-star), but the classification is not widely used.

Camping Caravaning

Camping is uncommon in Brazil, though some tour operators offer organised group trips in the Amazon and in the Pantanal regions. Since many parts of Brazil are wild, or semi-explored, it is wise to drive on main roads, and to camp with organised groups, under supervision and with official permits. The Camping Clube do Brasil (www.campingclube.com.br) runs numerous sites across the country.

Other

History

Portuguese conquistador, Pedro Álvares Cabral, led his fleet to the shores of the country now called Brazil in 1500. The Europeans saw great potential in a land inhabited by intransigent tribes but rich in natural resources.

Despite French and Spanish resistance, the Portuguese slowly expanded their territory in Brazil, finally setting the borders of modern Brazil in 1777. In 1808, the Portuguese royal family fled the Napoleonic wars and declared Brazil the centre of the Portuguese Empire. When King João VI returned to Europe, his elder son, Pedro was crowned the first Emperor of Brazil in 1822.

The tribespeople were happy to trade with the settlers, but they balked at the intensive labour imposed on them by the new plantations, especially when forced into slavery. Instead, the Portuguese brought slaves over from Africa, a trade that totalled up to 13 million over a period of 300 years, until its abolition in 1888.

Towards the end of the 19th century, the monarchy was overthrown and a period of political instability began. After a number of rebellions, coups and changes of power, a brutal military dictatorship led by Getúlio Vargas, gained power in 1937. After WWII, Vargas was overthrown and the country enjoyed a period of remarkable economic growth before a democratic government was finally re-established in 1985.

It was also this period that saw a further wave of immigration, begun in the 19th century, with arrivals from Europe, Japan and the Middle East. The diverse and largely harmonious cultural and racial mix that characterises Brazil today is the result of its history of settlement and integration.

In 2002, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva (Lula) became president, running a widely celebrated left-wing government. He helped establish Brazil as a major international economic power whilst investing in social welfare for its poorer citizens.

Lula’s successor, Dilma Rousseff, became Brazil’s first elected female president in 2011. Rousseff maintained economic stability and continued her predecessor’s socially inclusive programmes until her impeachment and removal from office in August 2016. Rousseff’s Vice President Michel Temer was named her successor and is now serving as the 37th President of Brazil. 

One of the BRIC countries (newly emerging economic powerhouses, with Russia, India and China), Brazil hosted the World Cup in 2014 and the Olympic Games in 2016.

Did You Know?
• Before the European conquest, there were approximately 10 million indigenous inhabitants in Brazil; today they number some 896,000.
• The geographic centre of South America is in Mato Grosso state, near the town of Santa Carmem; odd magnetic phenomena have been reported here, such as driverless cars rolling uphill.
• The Amazon River carries nearly one-fifth of all the world’s surface water.

Religion

There is no official religion, but approximately 64% of the population are Roman Catholic, with another 22% Protestant. A number of diverse evangelical cults are also represented, as are animist beliefs (particularly the Afro-Brazilian religion of candomblé).

Social Conventions

In informal situations, it is common to kiss women on both cheeks when meeting and taking one's leave, whilst handshaking is customary between men. Frequent offers of coffee and tea are customary when visiting a host; if invited to someone’s home bring a gift. Flowers either before or after your visit will be appreciated, as will small gifts from your country of origin, but avoid the colour purple or black, which are associated with mourning.

Time-keeping is loose and fast in Brazil, so whilst punctuality may be expected from visitors, don’t expect it in return – arriving 30 minutes later than scheduled is quite normal and acceptable. In terms of what to wear, casual wear is normal, particularly during hot weather. Brazilians are known for their love of skimpy beachwear (thong bikinis for women and Speedos for men are the norm) but going shirtless anywhere besides the beach is generally frowned upon.

Best Time To Visit:

Brazil is a big country, covering 8.5 million square kilometres (3.2 million square miles) and its climate varies considerably from north to south, although it should be said that a large part of Brazil (roughly 60%) lies in the tropics.

In general, Brazil is a year-round destination with temperatures rarely dip below 20°C (68°F), apart from in the mountains and southern regions. The climate varies from hot and dry in the arid interior to humid and sticky in the tropical rainforests of the Amazon jungle.

Belém is the capital and largest city of the state of Pará in the country's north, as well as the gateway to the River Amazon. Belém has a tropical rainforest climate with daily mean stands at a toasty 26°C (79°F) throughout the year. The city also receives a fair amount of rain (60mm on the average) all year round.

São Paulo, situated in South-eastern Brazil, is the country's the most populous city. São Paulo has a humid subtropical climate with indistinct four seasons. January is the hottest and also the wettest month, with an average temperature of 25°C (76°F) and 170mm of rainfall. On the contrary, June is the coldest month although temperatures still averaging at a comfortable 19°C (66°F).

Rio de Janeiro is about 440km (273 miles) east of São Paulo but has a different climate classification. Rio's summer (December to February) can be very hot with temperatures reaching 40°C (104°F), plus the city also receives abundant rainfall. The hot and wet weather doesn’t stop millions of tourists coming to Rio de Janeiro in January or February for the annual Carnival though. Rio's winter (July and August) is still fairly warm with temperatures averaging 21°C (70°F), making it an ideal time to visit. For more information, see this weather in Rio de Janeiro guide.

Curitiba is the capital and largest city of the Brazilian state of Paraná. Located 478km (297 miles) south of São Paulo, Curitiba is in the south region and has a subtropical highland climate with cold fronts bringing rains in summer (December to February) and cold winds in winter (June to August). February is the hottest month, averaging 22°C (72°F) while the average temperature drops to around 15°C (59°F) in June. Also note that parts of the south region, particularly the plateau region, it can get near 0°C (32°F) in winter.

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Required Clothing

As the weather is generally on the warmer side, bring clothes made from lightweight natural fabrics such as cottons and linens which you can layer up. Waterproofs are a must if visiting during the rainy season, or places like Belém where it receives a substantial amount of rain year around. Bring warm clothing if visiting the south during winter (June to August). On the other hand, the extremely humid climate of the Amazon region demands quick-dry shirts and long cotton pants for any treks or activity tourism. Sunlight around the tropics is extremely strong, so take a wide-brimmed hat and a pair of sunglasses. Long-sleeve cotton shirts are also useful in the jungle; they protect you from mosquito bites and the sun.

Dialing Code:

+55

Area(sq km):

8515770

Population:

212.559.417

Population Density(per sq km):

24

Population Year:

2020

EU Member:

No

Main emergency number

192