Brazil is one of those landmasses that is way too big to try to describe in a single sentence.
However, regardless of the area of the country, you decide to visit, here are a few tips that cover important basics that will be beneficial to you at any stage of the trip.
Traveling to Brazil during COVID pandemic
Traveling to Brazil is not recommended during the Covid-19 pandemic. Brazil is going through a very difficult time during the COVID-19 outbreak, reached over 12 million positive cases, and has the highest C.D.C warning since the beginning of the pandemic.
As of July 29, 2020, Brazil reopened borders to tourism! According to the current rules, you can visit Brazil but you bring a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken at least 72hours before arrival.
Also, all visitors will need to present travel insurance that covers COVID-19.
Requirements to enter Brazil during a pandemic:
- VISA (depending on your citizenship)
- A proof of negative PCR Covid test
- Passport with the expiration date at least 6 months + length of your stay
- Travel insurance that covers COVID-19. Make sure you double-check this with your insurance company. We recommend WorldNomadsorSafetyWing (monthly plan).
NOTE: ALWAYS reach out to your embassy in Brazil for more information and Brazil news about the pandemic or WHO or C.D.C website for current (updated) information.
RIO CARNIVAL IS CANCELED FOR 2022
As reported a few days ago, the famous Rio De Janeiro carnival is canceled in 2022 due to concerning Covid-19 situation. (Source: CNN)
Rio de Janeiro Is Not The Capital City
It was the capital city until the year 1960. After that, the capital was moved to Brasília in the middle of Brazil.
Rio de Janeiro City is now known as the capital of the state of Rio de Janeiro.
Spanish Is Not The Widely Spoken Second Language Or Native Language
Many tourists that arrive in Brazil are under the false impression that if they know a bit of Spanish they will be fine, yet Portuguese is official language in this country. However, most Brazilians learn Spanish and English due to the requirements of the business industries.
While Portuguese and Spanish may be fairly similar, this does not mean that speaking Spanish will automatically make traveling around Brazil easier.
In addition, the English language is not widely spoken. However, some residents in São Paulo along with a few of the more popular tourist’s destinations in Rio de Janeiro know how to speak English.
If you want to impress a few of the locals, learn a few of the Portuguese expressions.
Beer Is Always Served In Small Glasses
All over Brazil, most of the places that serve beer will do so in smaller glasses that are usually smaller than the ½ pint glasses. The idea behind this makes sense as most areas in Brazil experience heat that is extreme, and the larger glasses warm up faster.
In the bars, the beer is typically served in the 600ml large bottles served with a smaller glass that you can drink from, or in a chopp, which is draft beer served in small glasses.
The exception to the small glasses can be found in the southern parts of Brazil, where German-influenced towns serve the large-sized beers.
A Green Man At A Crossing Does Not Always Mean That It Is Safe To Cross
When in Brazil always wait for every car to stop completely before you decide to cross a road, regardless of whether there is a green man telling you are allowed to cross.
It’s common for cars to start speeding up from far away when the light has turned orange and then skip through these lights once they have turned red, which really annoys the drivers from the other junctions.
This may be classified as a general safety rule, but skipping red lights is so common in Brazil that it is something you need to be aware of.
You Can Pay Almost Everything by Debit / Credit Card – GET REVOLUT
Even tho there is a lot of fraud, Brazil is very friendly with card payments especially in bigger cities or tourist hotspots.
We recommend getting a REVOLUT card or any other similar service for full control over your card via mobile app, great conversion rates, and security.
FUN FACT: YOU CAN PAY CARPIRINHA ON THE BEACH IN RIO BY CARD! 🙂
EDITOR’S NOTE: I have my Revolut card linked to my actual account in my country. I only TOP-up REVOLUT CARD (for free) with some minimum amounts of 100 – 200 USD. Topping-up takes only a few seconds via MOBILE APP.
If I see any suspicious activity I FREEZE the card or DEACTIVATE. If I’m late, I only lose MAX of those 100 – 200 USD.
Brazil Makes Really Good Wine
The wines from France, South Africa and France might not need to be too concerned about new competition anytime soon, but the Brazilian wines, particularly the sparkling varieties like the Brut Champenoise which comes from the south of Brazil are exceptionally good.
They also have a few outstanding reds and wonderful rosés, which originate from local wineries based in Minas Gerais and Rio de Janeiro.
You should definitely pay a visit to the Winehouse and Canastra in Rio de Janeiro so that you can sample the best of the best Brazilian wines. Canastra, which is French-owned only sells Brazilian wines, while Winehouse sells both Brazilian and national wines.
Brazil Is Not Always Hot, In Some Areas It Even Snows
Brazil is a country that also gets snow. In the southern tip of the country, the temperatures plummet below freezing during the months of winter with occasional snow.
The snow is usually very light, but definitely, enough to dash your hopes of tropical, warm days.
In the north part of Brazil, the climate is tropical throughout the year, but if you are visiting the south it is very cold in winter and could come as an unpleasant surprise for travelers who only packed flip-flops, t-shirts, and shorts.
Brazil Hosts An Oktoberfest
In the south of Brazil, there is significant German influence in food, architecture and traditions.
In San Catarina, every October the town of Blumenau holds a traditional celebration known as Oktoberfest. This celebration is held over a number of days that honors German heritage along with lots of beer, dancing, singing and traditional food.
This event is known as the 2nd largest beer festival across the globe, shortly after the Oktoberfest in Munich.
You May Need a Visa
A trip to Brazil may require you to have a visa before you go. Depending on the country you are a resident in or where your passport is from, you may require a visa.
If you do so then consult the experts in this area – you will find out more if youvisit the website.
The Subway Features Women-Only Carriages
Subways in the main cities offer carriages for women only, yet this rule is only applicable during the peak hours from 6am to 9 am and 5 pm to 8 pm from Monday to Friday.
If men enter one of these carriages, they could face a fine of as much as R$1,000 which translates into $320USD. Outside the peak hours, both women and men are permitted to use these carriages.
The security on these subways does not tolerate any excuses, especially since the carriages state women-only warnings that are painted in both Portuguese and English.
Avoid Going On A Jungle Trek On Your Own
The Amazon is easily the most incredible habitat in the world. It also really big and comes with potential dangers to those that want to explore this habitat alone.
If you would like to venture into this rainforest, always use reputable and qualified guides that know the risks and the paths in the Amazon. This same rule is applicable to Pantanal.
Brazil Is Usually Safe For Tourists But You Have To Be Always Very Careful
Brazil is one of the least safest countries in South America and renowned for the bad press when it comes to violence, crime, and their higher murder numbers.
However, the reality behind these statistics is mainly to do with the criminal activities between the gangs that are based far away from tourist destinations.
In general, Brazil is relatively safe for visitors and tourists. The scenarios that involve tourists usually involve non-violent pick-pocketing or muggings, but in most cases, tourists usually do not encounter these issues. It is still wise to practice precautions in the main urban areas like Salvador, Recife, and Rio de Janeiro, and safeguard your belongings.
Brazil has one of the most beautiful islands in South America
Florianopolis is a must-go when traveling in Brazil! It’s a paradise and comes with everything you can demand from the island. Floripa (as locals call it) is heaven for backpackers, travelers, hikers, party people, surfers but also a great spot for some nice family time.
EDITOR’s note: In one of our recent articles, we’ve selected 8 best beaches in Florianopolis but in total Floripa has 42 beaches around the island.
Best time to visit Florianopolis is between November and March, otherwise, the temperature is dropping down since it’s located quite south.
There are many small villages and towns around the islands where you can score some fancy hotels, affordable Airbnb’s or some amazing backpackers’ hostels with great vibes.
Brazil or Brasil? Which is right?
Brasil (written with S) is the official name of the country in the Portuguese language. On the other hand, Brazil (written with Z) is the English version.
Therefore, both works but if you want to be 100% correct, follow this simple rule.
Brazil Can Become Expensive
It’s often assumed that South America is a budget-friendly place to visit and in general, this is an accurate assumption. However, a few of the main cities like Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo can be costly, especially in wealthier neighborhoods like Leblon and Ipanema which are also some of the top tourist areas.
Check out our roundups of best hostels in RIO & SAO PAULO for backpackers.
Brazil is also not a country that you want to purchase electronics from. With the increased import taxes, a few items are often double sometimes even more than the price that you would have paid in Europe or the U.S. Accommodation, drinks and food are also pricey in the peak seasons like the Carnival and New Year where the prices are known to double or triple.
Avoid Hanging Your Bags Over The Back Of Chairs
Even though Brazil is regarded as safer than the press makes it out to be, theft and muggings do happen, and tourists should always be aware of this.
Hanging your belongings over a chair is not wise as it is easy for a person to grab your things and quickly run away. It is far better to keep your bag wrapped around the legs of a table or keep your belongings close to your body.
Consider Flying Instead of Traveling By Bus
If you travel outside of Xmas or Carnival, flying in Brazil can be quite affordable and cheaper than traveling by bus. Also, the infrastructure in many regions is not very developed and the travel time can be actually counted in DAYS.
You Can Drink Tap Water in Brazil, but You Won’t Like It
Drinking tap water in Brazil is safe but due to its treatment process, the taste is not very good. Therefore, most Brazilians choose to drink bottled water instead of tap water.
Book Your Taxis Through The Airport Agencies or Use Uber
On arriving at an airport in Brazil, book your taxi through one of the agencies or call uber opposed to using the unofficial cabs. Even though it costs more, you will not be subjected to additional charges when you arrive at your destination.
There is also no change in the price caused by traffic which means you will arrive at a hotel without having to take unnecessary routes. Most of the taxi drivers are regarded as honest, yet there are a few that will take advantage of a foreigner that lacks local knowledge.
You can avoid these issues by booking your taxi through the airport agencies or getting a SIM card with data and calling yourself uber.
FAQs
What should I be careful of in Brazil? ›
Be extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs. Use caution at, or going to, major transportation centers or on public transportation, especially at night. Passengers face an elevated risk of robbery or assault using public, municipal bus transportation throughout Brazil.
What are the current travel restrictions to Brazil? ›- Fully Vaccinated Travelers must present proof of COVID-19 vaccination as follows: ...
- Unvaccinated Travelers must present negative COVID-19 Tests Results as follows:
Courses or boosters usually advised: Diphtheria; Tetanus. Other vaccines to consider: Hepatitis A; Rabies; Typhoid; Yellow Fever. Selectively advised vaccines - only for those individuals at highest risk: Hepatitis B. No yellow fever vaccination certificate required for this country.
What are 3 unusual facts about Brazil? ›- Around 60% of the Amazon rainforest is in Brazil.
- There more than 400 airports in Brazil.
- The Brazilian football team have won the world cup a record 5 times.
- Brazil has one of the largest economies in the world.
Using Money in Rio
The United States dollar is quite easy to exchange in Rio de Janeiro. Travelers are advised to either bring American dollars or travel money cards. Of course, all major credit cards are also accepted.
Water -- The tap water in Brazil is increasingly safe to drink. However, as a result of the treatment process it still doesn't taste great. To be on the safe side, drink bottled or filtered water (most Brazilians do). All brands are reliable; ask for agua sem gas for still water and agua com gas for carbonated water.
Do you need booster to travel to Brazil? ›Proof of vaccine is required for most travelers to Brazil. Travelers of all ages must verify with their airline well in advance of travel if they will be required to present proof of vaccine status. COVID-19 travel regulations change frequently and at times without warning.
Which countries can enter Brazil without visa? ›...
Brazil Visa Exempt Countries.
| Countries | Tourist Visa | Business Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Czech Republic | Exempted | Exempted |
| Chile | Exempted | Exempted |
| Colombia | Exempted | Exempted |
| Costa Rica | Exempted | Exempted |
A valid U.S. passport. U.S. citizens do not need a visa if they are traveling to Brazil for tourism, business, transit, artistic or sport activities, with no intention of establishing residence.
Do you need to take malaria tablets for Brazil? ›CDC recommends that travelers going to certain areas of Brazil take prescription medicine to prevent malaria. Depending on the medicine you take, you will need to start taking this medicine multiple days before your trip, as well as during and after your trip.
Do you need yellow fever vaccine to enter Brazil? ›
Important: Yellow Fever Update: While CDC recommends yellow fever vaccination for travel to some areas of Brazil, U.S. Travelers coming to Brazil are not required to have yellow fever vaccination.
Can you drink tap water in Sao Paulo? ›Bottled water is a must if you're traveling to Brazil, and even that may be tougher to come by than usual. Even without a water shortage, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) always suggests travelers drink bottled water instead of tap or well water when visiting Brazil.
How do you say hello in Brazil? ›If you'd like to say “hello” in Brazilian Portuguese, you would generally use “Olá”. You can also use “Oí"—which is often considered more informal.
What fruit is Brazil famous for? ›Yes, pineapple is a typical Brazilian fruit. In fact, it's considered the national fruit of Brazil.
How much is $1 US in Brazil? ›1 USD = 5.1804 BRL Oct 31, 2022 23:50 UTC
The currency converter below is easy to use and the currency rates are updated frequently.
You can pay your bills with a credit card, debit card or pre-paid card issued by the main international financial service companies in most Brazilian establishments.
How much cash can you fly with to Brazil? ›How much cash / currency am I allowed to carry with me when I fly to or from Brazil? Travellers entering or leaving Brazil with local or foreign currency exceeding R$10,000.00 (ten thousand Reais), whether in cash, cheques or travellers' cheques must submit a declaration to the Brazilian Federal Revenue Department.
How do you greet a Brazilian woman? ›Common verbal greetings include 'olá' ('hello'), 'bom dia' ('good day'), 'boa tarde' ('good afternoon') and 'boa noite' ('good evening' or 'good night').
What does thumbs up mean in Brazil? ›Throughout Brazil, use the thumbs-up gesture to indicate that something is OK. The gesture created by making a circle with your thumb and index finger and holding your other fingers up in the air has a very rude meaning. See our Brazil Travel Guide.
What is the dress code in Brazil? ›Even if you're just taking a walk through the streets or shopping, be sure to dress well. There is a cultural requirement that people of higher classes dress better than the others. Khakis or other pants and an attractive long-sleeved shirt are acceptable for men; women should wear a nice pair of pants or a skirt.
Is Brazil a wealthy or poor country? ›
| Rank | Country | GDP-PPP ($) |
|---|---|---|
| 89 | Barbados | 17,408 |
| 90 | Albania | 17,383 |
| 91 | Suriname | 17,300 |
| 92 | Brazil | 17,208 |
7. The consumption of alcoholic beverages in Brazil is only legally authorized to people above 18. However, adolescents can easily buy and drink alcohol.
What's the legal age in Brazil? ›Only individuals aged 18 or older can be criminally charged, since this is the Brazilian age of criminal responsibility codified in Art. 228 of the Constitution of Brazil.
Can you drink ice in Brazil? ›Ice in restaurants is generally safe, especially if they have a good reputation. However, if you are in the slightest doubt of how the ice is stored or produced, ask for your drink without it.
Is Brazil safe to travel alone? ›Is Brazil Safe for Solo Female Travelers? Brazil faces real issues of poverty and crime so solo female travelers will need to be on guard. This is not a destination for new travelers and I would only suggest solo female travelers visit here if they are experienced solo travelers.
Is yellow fever common in Brazil? ›In Brazil, seasonal increases of yellow fever have historically occurred between December and May.
Where is yellow fever in Brazil? ›The largest outbreak of the last 50 years in the Americas took place in Brazil, with transmission outside the Amazon region generating 2,154 cases and 745 deaths between 2016 and 2018. Marlúcio Mendes de Jesus, a young Brazilian farmer from Imbé de Minas, 300 kilometers from Belo Horizonte, got yellow fever in 2017.
How much does a visa to Brazil cost? ›Standard processing time – this is the cheapest option you have, and most people who apply for a Brazil eVisa use it. Your application will be processed within 10 business days, and you only have to pay $69.50. The price of the visa itself is $44.50, and the rest ($25) is a service fee for iVisa.
How long can I stay in Brazil without a visa? ›Visa Exempt
Travelers can enter in Brazil for a stay of up to 90 days, which can be extended for an additional 90 days. Please keep in mind that even if staying less than 90 days, you must: Stay less than 180 days within a 12-month period. Hold a passport valid at least six months on entry with one blank visa page.
Japanese citizens now hold the most passport power, as they are able to enter 193 nations visa free, or with visa-on-arrival. South Korea and Singapore hold joint second place, with both countries' passports enabling their citizens to access 192 nations without restrictions.
What is the best time to go to Brazil? ›
Overall, the months of September and October are the best time to vacation in Brazil, as you will avoid the major holiday periods as well as the chilly southern winter and the rainy season in the Pantanal.
Is it hard to get a visa to Brazil? ›Obtaining a Brazil visa is not really that hard. You may have to go to the embassy and apply for one, and you may go through a tedious process, but if you are lucky, you can avoid that.
How long does it take to get a Brazilian visa? ›How Long Does It Take to Process a Brazil Visa? The processing time for a Brazil visa changes depending on the specific Embassy/Consulate handling your application. However, you can expect to wait for 10 to 15 workdays from the time you submit your completed application. It can take longer for long-term visas.
How do you catch yellow fever? ›Yellow fever is a viral infection that is spread by the bite of an infected Aedes aegypti mosquito which mainly bites during daylight hours.
Is malaria in Brazil? ›In Brazil, malaria is endemic in the Amazon region and is frequently associated with migration movements of non-immune individuals to areas where malaria is endemic.
How long does a rabies vaccine last? ›Depending on your level of risk, you may be advised to have one or more blood tests or receive a booster dose within 3 years after the first 2 doses. Your health care provider can give you more details.
What is the most common disease in Brazil? ›Ischemic heart disease ranks the highest among common diseases in Brazil. In 2015, it was the leading cause of death in Brazil at 18.8 percent, and it has frequently been the leading cause of death globally.
How long does a yellow fever vaccination last? ›A single dose provides lifelong protection for most people. The vaccine is a live, weakened form of the virus given as a single shot. Vaccine is recommended for people aged 9 months or older and who are traveling to or living in areas at risk for yellow fever virus in Africa and South America.
What vaccines do I need for South America? ›What Vaccines Do I Need for Central and South America? The NaTHNaC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for travellers to Central and South America: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, cholera, yellow fever and rabies.
Is it customary to tip in Brazil? ›Brazilians have a friendly reputation, but tipping is not a part of the culture. However they are often direct and clear on money they want or do not expect. Restaurants: A 10% "servico" charge is often added to the bill. While there is no legal obligation to pay it, it's customary to do so.
Can I take alcohol into Brazil? ›
Brazil duty free
The following goods may be imported into Brazil by travellers over 18 years of age without incurring customs duty: 12L of alcohol. 200 cigarettes and 25 cigars and 250g of tobacco. 20 items items worth more than $10 each (no more than three of the same item).
After lengthy and contentious debate, Brazil's Supreme Court has declared the country's Drink-Driving Law as fully constitutional. Brazil's 'Dry Law' stipulates that drivers must have a blood-alcohol content of zero.
Do US citizens need a visa for Brazil? ›A valid U.S. passport. U.S. citizens do not need a visa if they are traveling to Brazil for tourism, business, transit, artistic or sport activities, with no intention of establishing residence.
Do I need yellow fever vaccine for Brazil? ›Yellow Fever Update: While CDC recommends yellow fever vaccination for travel to some areas of Brazil, U.S. Travelers coming to Brazil are not required to have yellow fever vaccination.
Which countries can enter Brazil without visa? ›...
Brazil Visa Exempt Countries.
| Countries | Tourist Visa | Business Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Czech Republic | Exempted | Exempted |
| Chile | Exempted | Exempted |
| Colombia | Exempted | Exempted |
| Costa Rica | Exempted | Exempted |
Not only does Brazil have beautiful architecture and wonderful sights, it also has an energy that flows through the streets, no matter what day it was. That is why people love visiting Brazil. In Brazil, wild Amazon adventures can be coupled with stimulating city sights and leisurely beach escapades.
How many days can a US citizen stay in Brazil? ›Visa Exempt
Travelers can enter in Brazil for a stay of up to 90 days, which can be extended for an additional 90 days. Please keep in mind that even if staying less than 90 days, you must: Stay less than 180 days within a 12-month period. Hold a passport valid at least six months on entry with one blank visa page.
Overall, the months of September and October are the best time to vacation in Brazil, as you will avoid the major holiday periods as well as the chilly southern winter and the rainy season in the Pantanal.
How much is Brazil visa fee? ›Standard processing time – this is the cheapest option you have, and most people who apply for a Brazil eVisa use it. Your application will be processed within 10 business days, and you only have to pay $69.50. The price of the visa itself is $44.50, and the rest ($25) is a service fee for iVisa.
How long does a yellow fever vaccination last? ›A single dose provides lifelong protection for most people. The vaccine is a live, weakened form of the virus given as a single shot. Vaccine is recommended for people aged 9 months or older and who are traveling to or living in areas at risk for yellow fever virus in Africa and South America.
How do you catch yellow fever? ›
Yellow fever is a viral infection that is spread by the bite of an infected Aedes aegypti mosquito which mainly bites during daylight hours.
How common is typhoid in Brazil? ›Typhoid is relatively rare in Brazil. Incidence levels have dropped dramatically since the 1980s, but typhoid is still present in the northern part of the country.
What is the most powerful passport? ›Japanese citizens now hold the most passport power, as they are able to enter 193 nations visa free, or with visa-on-arrival. South Korea and Singapore hold joint second place, with both countries' passports enabling their citizens to access 192 nations without restrictions.
Is it hard to get a visa to Brazil? ›Obtaining a Brazil visa is not really that hard. You may have to go to the embassy and apply for one, and you may go through a tedious process, but if you are lucky, you can avoid that.
How much is Brazil passport? ›| Brazilian Passport (new/renewal) | $180,00 |
|---|---|
| Brazilian Passport (in case of lost, stolen or damaged passports) | $180,00 |
| Brazilian Passport (minors aged 4 to 18 years old/incomplete) | $120,00 |
| Brazilian Passport (minors aged 0 to 4 years old/incomplete) | $ 60,00 |
Do people in Brazil speak fluent English? Nope ! The average Brazilian does NOT speak ANY level of English. However you would find that people at hotels and restaurants and major touristic attractions might speak English, ranging from basic English to mid level proficiency.
What is Brazil famous for? ›Brazil is famous for its stunning beaches, rainforests, and diverse cities. It is known as the country of football with world-renowned footballers such as Pelé and Neymar born there.
Is Brazil cheap? ›It's not a secret that Brazil is one of the most expensive countries in South America. Still, for those travelers who earn in dollars, pounds, or euros, the 4-to-1 exchange rate makes the country surprisingly affordable. It's important to note that Brazil is a country of extremes.