Frequently Asked Questions - Brazil FAQ's

What Travel documents do I need for Brazil?

U.S., Australian, and Canadian citizens require a passport valid for at least six months from date of entry, a stamped visa that is valid 90 days from the date of issue, an onward or return ticket, and sufficient funds to cover their stay. Please visit http://www.brazil-help.com/brazil-emb-consul.htm  for current requirements and fees. We are happy to help you find your appropriate information.

Do I need any shots to travel to Brazil?

The only required vaccination for entry to Brazil is Yellow Fever if you have traveled to an infected country within 90 days of your trip to Brazil. However both Yellow Fever and Malaria are widespread in Brazil.

Please visit the Center for Disease Control website: http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/brazil.htm , and read carefully their recommendations for vaccines and medications based on the states and regions you will be visiting. Discuss these recommendations with your physician. The CDC phone number is 800-232-4636.

What language is spoken?
Brazilians speak their version of Portuguese but they love to practice the little English they know. Use body language! In larger cities, everybody knows someone who speaks a bit of English, at least. In the more remote areas, Portuguese is best. Spanish, with a bit of patience, is often understood.
 
Hotels usually carry at least one TV-channel is English (CNN).
 
Just learn the two magic words:
Please Por favor (easy, isn´t it!)   and   Thank you! Obrigado (if you are a man)
What will the weather be like in Brazil?
Brazil is a tropical nation with warm temperatures moderated by altitude, sea winds, or polar fronts. Coastal cities such as Rio de Janeiro, Recife & Salvador are warm with daytime highs between 85-95°F. The southern Brazilian cities of Porto Alegre & Curitiba have a climate similar to parts of the US with temperatures falling below freezing frequently during the winter months (June -September). In the Amazon temperatures above 95ºF occur during the warmest months of October & November (average temperature is 72-79ºF), and the hottest part of Brazil is the northeast.
What is the best time to travel to Brazil?
It all depends on what you are expecting!
 
North of Rio the weather is always warm, and hot December through March.
 
Rio itself can get cool in July. For a few days, the maximum temperature can fall below 20°C. The rainy season is January through March. This does not mean that it rains more often, the rain just brings more water!
 
São Paulo and the South are much like Southern Europe with the opposite seasons. A bit chilly indeed June through August (with a bit more rain) and quite hot and a bit humid in the Summer (January through March).
 
What about Carnival?
The country Is crazy during carnival, many businesses close down (unless they are in the carnival business) Rio has the big parades but you’ll find celebrations all over Brazil.
  • 2011 March 5, 6, 7, 8 - Winner's Parade March 12
  • 2012 February 18, 19, 20, 21 - Winner's Parade February 25
  • 2013 February 9, 10, 11, 12 - Winner's Parade February 16
  • 2014 March 1, 2, 3, 4 - Winner's Parade March 8
What are the standard wall currents and electrical socket shapes in Brazil?
Voltage: 110/220 V; Frequency: 60 HZ; Plugs: Type A (Flat blade attachment plug), Type B (Flat blades with round grounding pin), and Type C (European 2-pin).
Money questions - cash or travelers checks? ATM availability? Tipping?
Cash is the easiest to exchange and most places accept US dollars, traveler's checks are also OK. The Real is the currency of Brazil. Visit http://www.oanda.com/currency/converter/ for current exchange rates.

 
There are ATM machines in the main cities such as Rio and Manaus. We recommend using the ones located inside some hotels, stores, restaurants or banks. Be cautious as some thieves may watch these machines and target tourists and others who take out large amounts of cash. Consult with your guide for safety recommendations on ATM's or exchanging money.
How big is Brazil?
Brazil is larger than the 48 contiguous United States! Compare:

 

What are the international and domestic departure taxes for Brazil?
The international ($36.00 per person) and domestic ($6.00) departure taxes are included in the cost of the airfare for tickets purchased outside of Brazil.