Successful travel starts with good preparation. At Janeiro Tour & Travel, we provide carefully curated insights, tips, and recommendations to help you make the most of your journey. Whether you’re planning to enjoy the vibrant Carnival in Rio de Janeiro or exploring Brazil’s natural wonders, our guides give you the essential information you need. We also offer practical advice on travel safety and responsible tourism in Brazil.
Climate and Timing: Brazil is a vast country with varied climates. We’ll help you understand the weather patterns and guide you in choosing the best time for your trip.
Accommodation Options: From charming family-run pousadas to luxury hotels, Brazil has lodging to suit every preference. We explain the choices available so you can select what works best for your travel style.
Travel Policies: In this section, you’ll also find our booking terms, cancellation policy, privacy policy, and general conditions for your peace of mind.
As you plan, new questions naturally come up:
Do you need a visa or vaccinations for your visit?
Are there any specific health or safety requirements for the regions you’ll be exploring?
What is the process for entering Brazil and navigating airports or local transportation?
We provide clear guidance so that your preparations are smooth and stress-free.
Our goal is to help you feel comfortable and confident while traveling in Brazil:
Local Tips: Learn how to communicate, make purchases, and navigate Brazilian customs and outlets.
Time Zones: Brazil spans multiple time zones, and we explain the differences so you can adjust your schedule accordingly.
Practical Insights: From cultural etiquette to everyday travel hacks, we cover the details that make your experience richer and safer.
At Janeiro Tour & Travel, we want your trip to Brazil to be unforgettable. With our guidance, you can enjoy every moment with confidence, curiosity, and peace of mind. We wish you safe travels and an inspiring Brazilian adventure!
Brazil is a vast and diverse country, offering a wide range of climates depending on the region. From the hot, humid tropics of the North and Northeast to the milder subtropical areas in the South, every corner of Brazil offers a unique experience. Planning your trip carefully according to the season and destination will ensure that you enjoy the best of each location. Since Brazil is in the Southern Hemisphere, summer and winter occur at opposite times compared to the Northern Hemisphere.
South (Subtropical): Summers (December–February) are warm and humid, with average highs around 28–32 °C (82–90 °F) and lows around 18–22 °C (64–72 °F). Winters (June–August) are cooler and drier, with highs of 18–22 °C (64–72 °F) and lows of 6–12 °C (43–54 °F). Ideal for cultural tours and nature excursions outside peak summer heat.
Southeast: Similar to the South, but winters are milder. Hot, humid summers with highs of 28–33 °C (82–91 °F) and lows of 19–23 °C (66–73 °F) are perfect for a beach getaway. Winter highs range 20–25 °C (68–77 °F), lows 10–15 °C (50–59 °F).
Central Brazil: Tropical climate, very hot year-round. Summer highs (Dec–Feb) reach 32–36 °C (90–97 °F) and lows 20–24 °C (68–75 °F); winter highs (Jun–Aug) are 28–32 °C (82–90 °F) with lows 16–20 °C (61–68 °F).
North (Amazon): Equatorial tropical climate, very humid year-round. Average highs 30–34 °C (86–93 °F) and lows 22–26 °C (72–79 °F). Dry season (May–August) is ideal for river tours and wildlife observation.
Northeast: Tropical climate, warm all year. Highs typically 28–32 °C (82–90 °F), lows 22–26 °C (72–79 °F). Rainy and dry seasons vary by location, but dry periods offer the best conditions for beach vacations.
Overall, Brazil can be enjoyed year-round, but rainy seasons in the North and Northeast or cooler winters in the South may influence your travel plans depending on your preferences.
Note: Temperature ranges are averages. Actual weather may vary slightly depending on altitude, proximity to the coast, and other local factors.
Rio de Janeiro: Coastal subtropical climate. Summer (Dec–Feb) is hot and humid, with highs 29–34 °C (84–93 °F), occasionally reaching up to 40 °C (104 °F), and lows 23–26 °C (73–79 °F). Winter (Jun–Aug) is mild, highs 23–27 °C (73–81 °F), lows 16–20 °C (61–68 °F). Ideal for beaches and sightseeing almost year-round.
Tropical climate, warm to hot year-round. Highs 28–32 °C (82–90 °F), lows 22–26 °C (72–79 °F). Avoid March–August rains for beach trips.
Subtropical, hot and humid summers, dry and cool winters. Summer highs (Dec–Feb) 30–34 °C (86–93 °F), lows 20–23 °C (68–73 °F); winter highs (Jun–Aug) 18–23 °C (64–73 °F), lows 10–14 °C (50–57 °F). Best waterfall visits: Nov–Apr; Apr–Jul for moderate temperatures.
Subtropical, hot humid summers and cool dry winters. Summer highs (Dec–Feb) 28–32 °C (82–90 °F), lows 18–22 °C (64–72 °F); winter highs (Jun–Aug) 19–23 °C (66–73 °F), lows 10–14 °C (50–57 °F). Spring and fall offer warm weather and moderate rainfall, ideal for sightseeing.
ttention travelers! As of April 10, 2025, the Brazilian Government requires a tourist visa for citizens of the United States, Japan, Canada, and Australia. Travelers from these countries can apply for an electronic visa entirely online, with the current fee of USD 80.90, valid for up to 10 years.
For travelers from visa-exempt countries, a passport valid for at least six months is sufficient. Upon arrival, tourists will automatically receive authorization to stay for up to 90 days, with the option to request an additional 90-day extension, up to a maximum of 180 days within a 12-month period.
Important: Travelers without a return ticket may be denied entry.
If you are traveling from the United States, Canada, or Australia, we recommend checking which consulate has jurisdiction over your region and following their official visa application instructions carefully:
Travel with peace of mind we can guide you through every step to ensure your visa and travel documents are ready for your unforgettable trip to Brazil!
When traveling to Brazil, visitors are required to complete an entry card prior to arrival. Typically, airlines, cruise lines, and bus companies provide these cards to passengers before they reach Brazilian borders.
Upon arrival, the Brazilian Federal Police will stamp your passport. It’s important to keep the entry card with your passport throughout your stay, as it serves as part of your travel documentation. When departing Brazil, the card is collected by the authorities.
Although some airlines have recently started skipping the distribution of entry cards, and customs officers may not always ask for them, the official rule still stands: all travelers must fill out the entry card and have it ready for inspection when entering the country.
When arriving in Brazil on an international flight, you will need to collect your luggage at baggage claim and go through customs with your bags. This process also applies if you have a connecting flight—your baggage will not be automatically transferred to your next flight.
Once you have cleared customs, you can recheck your luggage at the designated connection check-in counters:
In São Paulo, these counters are located at the far end of the arrivals hall, and you don’t need to carry your luggage up the escalators.
In Rio de Janeiro, you must check your bags at the regular check-in counters before proceeding to your connecting flight.
Following these steps will help ensure a smooth transfer between flights and prevent any delays with your luggage.
If you’ve arranged an airport transfer, your driver or guide will be waiting for you in the arrival area. After collecting your luggage from baggage claim and exiting the security area, simply look for a sign with your name. Your guide or driver will be holding it to make it easy for you to spot them.
Once you have cleared customs, you can recheck your luggage at the designated connection check-in counters:
In São Paulo, these counters are located at the far end of the arrivals hall, and you don’t need to carry your luggage up the escalators.
In Rio de Janeiro, you must check your bags at the regular check-in counters before proceeding to your connecting flight.
Following these steps will help ensure a smooth transfer between flights and prevent any delays with your luggage.
Brazil spans four different time zones. When arriving in Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, or Brasília, you will be on Brasília Time (BRT, UTC-3), which is two hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time (EST).
In Brazil, toilet paper is not flushed down the toilet. Please use the small waste bin provided next to the toilet for disposal.
If you plan to make a short-term border crossing, such as visiting the Argentine side of the Iguazu Falls, make sure to bring both your passport and the entry card you received from the Brazilian Federal Police (Polícia Federal) when entering Brazil.
Brazil is a vast country that stretches across four different time zones, so depending on where your trip takes you, the local time may change. The good news? It’s easy to adjust—just set your watch to the local time as soon as you arrive.
Here’s a quick guide to the time zones you may encounter:
West Brazil Time (UTC-5)
Used in the State of Acre and part of the western Amazon. It’s close to U.S. Eastern Standard Time (EST).
Amazon Time (UTC-4)
Found in states like Mato Grosso, Rondônia, Roraima, and most of Amazonas. Just a little ahead of U.S. EST.
Brasília Time (UTC-3)
This is the country’s official time zone, followed in major destinations like Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, and Brasília. Most visitors will experience this time zone during their stay.
Fernando de Noronha Time (UTC-2)
A unique zone for the islands of Fernando de Noronha and a few other Atlantic territories. Perfect if you’re chasing paradise far from the mainland.
Most travelers will land in Brasília Time (BRT), which is 3 hours ahead of U.S. Central Standard Time (CST) and 2 hours ahead of EST.
Staying connected in Brazil is easy once you understand how the phone system works.
Brazilian phone numbers always have 9 digits, and every number is linked to a regional area code (two digits, preceded by zero). For example, the area code for Florianópolis is 048.
When making calls outside your local area, you’ll often need to include a provider code – some of the most common are 015 and 021. Here’s how it works:
If you’re in Rio de Janeiro and want to call Florianópolis using the 021 provider, you would dial:
021 + 48 + XXXXX-XXXX
Notice that the zero from the area code is dropped.
To purchase a SIM card in Brazil, providers typically request a CPF (Brazilian tax number). However, since the 2013 Confederations Cup and the 2014 World Cup, the national telecom agency (Anatel) has allowed foreign tourists to buy SIM cards with just their passport. That said, not all vendors are aware of this rule, so availability may vary.
The good news is that most hotels and cafés across Brazil offer free Wi-Fi, which makes staying connected online much easier.
If you want to land in Brazil and be connected right away, without the hassle of paperwork or searching for a local shop, the best option is to get an eSIM before your trip.
With the Maya Simcard, you receive a virtual SIM directly on your phone. No need for physical cards, no waiting in lines, and no surprises. Simply activate it before your flight and enjoy instant internet as soon as you arrive in Brazil.
✔️ Fast setup
✔️ Reliable coverage across Brazil
✔️ Perfect for travelers who want to stay online without stress
Stay connected wherever your Brazilian adventure takes you — with Maya Simcard, communication is just a click away.
Traveling through Brazil is easier when you know how to handle payments. The good news? Credit cards are accepted almost everywhere—from trendy restaurants in São Paulo to beach kiosks in Bahia. Visa and Mastercard are the most reliable options, while American Express is widely used in big cities.
If you need cash, you’ll find ATMs in most banks such as Banco do Brasil, Bradesco, Itaú, and Santander. Look for machines with your card’s logo before withdrawing. Keep in mind: most banks set a daily limit of R$800–R$1,000.
Pro tip: ATMs in smaller towns don’t always work smoothly. If you’re headed to places like Jericoacoara, Lençóis, Boipeba, Ilha Grande, or Fernando de Noronha, plan ahead and withdraw cash before you travel.
You can also exchange currency at banks or exchange offices. US dollars and euros are the most widely accepted. Banking hours are typically Monday to Friday, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Stay safe when using ATMs:
Fraud is more common in big cities and airports. Choose machines inside banks with cameras and security.
Always save your receipt, especially if the withdrawal fails.
Don’t rely only on ATMs—have a backup payment option just in case.
Looking for a simple way to manage money while traveling in Brazil? Wise (formerly TransferWise) makes it easy to send, spend, and receive money in different currencies with low fees and real exchange rates.
Open a multi-currency account before your trip and use your Wise card to pay like a local—whether at restaurants, shops, or online. You’ll avoid high conversion costs and always know exactly what you’re spending.
A smart choice for travelers who want security, transparency, and savings on every transaction.
Since 2011, Brazil has adopted a round, three-prong outlet nationwide.
In order buildings you may still come across two-prong outlets — either round or the same flat style commonly used in the United States. European two-pin plugs generally fit without issue. Thicker European plugs (often found on laptops and hair dryers) may not fit in every outlet.
Here’s where it gets tricky: Brazil uses both 110V and 220V, depending on the city — and sometimes even within the same city. Always double-check with your hotel or accommodation before plugging in your devices.
To help you plan, here are some of the most common voltages across popular destinations:
110V → Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, Manaus, Foz do Iguaçu, Porto Alegre, Belo Horizonte
220V → Brasília, Salvador, Recife, Fortaleza, Florianópolis, Maceió, Jericoacoara
(Tip: If your device is dual voltage — like most modern smartphones and laptops — you’ll only need the right plug adapter. For single-voltage appliances, consider a travel voltage converter.)
Don’t let charging your devices be a travel headache. Pack a universal adapter and, if needed, a voltage converter, so you can stay connected, power your essentials, and focus on enjoying your trip in Brazil.
Before heading to Brazil, it’s smart to check your health and vaccination status. While most travelers stay healthy, a little preparation goes a long way in keeping your trip safe and stress-free.
Routine Shots: Ensure your tetanus, polio, measles, mumps, and rubella vaccines are up to date.
Yellow Fever: Highly recommended if visiting the Amazon, Minas Gerais, Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo (outside the city), Paraná (Iguaçu Falls), or parts of the South and Northeast. Take it at least 10 days before travelfor lifelong protection.
Hepatitis A & B: Ideal for travelers enjoying local cuisine or planning a longer stay.
Typhoid & Rabies: Consider if you’ll venture off the beaten path, camp, or be in close contact with animals.
Influenza: Recommended during Brazil’s flu season (May–September).
Mosquitoes are common, especially during the rainy season, and can transmit dengue, Zika, chikungunya, and malaria (in the Amazon).
No widely available vaccines exist for dengue, chikungunya, or Zika (except limited dengue vaccination in certain countries).
Protect yourself: Use repellent, wear long sleeves and pants during the day, and sleep under mosquito nets in rural areas.
Pregnant travelers should avoid areas with active Zika transmission.
Malaria risk is mostly confined to the Amazon region. Major cities like Rio, São Paulo, Brasília, Salvador, and Recife are malaria-free. Travelers to the Amazon should consult a travel doctor about antimalarial medication.
Measles: Cases have resurfaced in recent years—make sure your MMR vaccine is current.
Rabies: Rare, but possible from contact with stray animals, bats, or monkeys.
COVID-19: Entry requirements may change, so check the latest guidance before traveling.
Visit a travel medicine clinic 4–6 weeks before your trip. They can tailor recommendations based on your itinerary, duration of stay, and health profile.
With these precautions, you can focus on exploring Brazil safely, enjoying every adventure, from the Amazon to Iguaçu Falls!
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