Discover Tailor-Made Brazil Vacations

Summer in the Southern Hemisphere (December to March) brings hot and sunny weather and the country’s biggest cultural celebrations. 

“This time of year is ideal for experiencing the country’s beaches and major events like Carnaval,” says Destination Specialist Kajal Gadhia. “New Year’s Eve in Rio de Janeiro, where hundreds of thousands gather along Copacabana Beach for fireworks and music, is another bucket-list event.”

If hiking and spotting wildlife are your priority, the best time to visit Brazil is during the dry season from April to October. The drier and cooler temperatures in the Pantanal make it easier to spot jaguars clustering around water sources. In the Amazon, lower water levels allow for better access to trails and land-based activities. 

Regional climates also play a big role in shaping the experience, and even what you pack. “Brazil’s climate ranges from tropical and humid in the north to temperate in the south, with hot, dry inland areas and a semi-arid Northeast that sees far less rain,” explains Gadhia. 

The takeaway: there’s no single “best” time to visit Brazil—just the best time for your style of travel. For more information, read our full guide to the best time to visit Brazil. Whether you’re chasing wildlife, samba, or sunshine, let us help you choose the best season for your Brazil journey.

Samba powers Carnival parades and blocos (street parties) with its fast, infectious rhythm that originated in Afro-Brazilian communities in the early 20th century. Meanwhile, bossa nova, which emerged in the 1950s jazz clubs of Rio, offers a softer soundtrack to seaside evenings. In Bahia, capoeira reveals a different side of the country’s complex history. A martial art disguised as dance, it was developed by enslaved Africans as both a form of self-defence and cultural expression.

Brazil’s calendar is packed with year-round events, but no celebration is bigger than Carnival, when costumed dancers and drummers take over the streets. The epicentre of the festivities is in Rio, but you’ll also find parties in Salvador, Recife, and other cities. In June, Festa Junina is marked with bonfires, costumes, and folk dancing in major cities. Read our full guide to Brazil’s culture and traditions for more insight into the country’s festivals. 

It’s impossible to tour Brazil without falling in love with its passion for all things feel-good—music, movement, and memorable moments. Experience Brazil’s rich culture on your next journey.

Feijoada, a black bean and pork stew, is often shared with family and friends on Sundays, while churrasco turns a simple barbecue into a lively feast. 

“While some churrascarias are internationally renowned, many smaller, local establishments serve equally excellent churrasco,” says Destination Specialist Kajal Gadhia. Along the coast, moqueca (a coconut-based seafood stew) showcases Bahia’s Afro-Brazilian roots, while southern Brazil is known for its fresh oysters and shrimp. Fresh tropical fruits such as passionfruit, açaí, and guava are also widely available at local markets. Read our full guide to Brazil’s food and drink for more information about the country’s dining dos and don’ts. 

The Brazilian real (BRL) is the national currency, and while credit cards are widely accepted, it’s useful to carry cash for markets, taxis, and small vendors. Portuguese is the official language, though English is commonly spoken in tourist hubs. Learning a handful of basic phrases goes a long way when meeting locals.

Most visitors need a passport valid for at least six months. Visa requirements vary depending on your nationality, so check before you depart. Brazil is vast, so getting between destinations, such as going from Rio to the Amazon, typically requires flights and some planning.

Safety is often top of mind for travellers. “A common misconception is that Brazil is dangerous,” says Destination Specialist Kajal Gadhia. “While there are areas with high crime rates, many regions are safe for tourists—especially when you follow basic precautions like being mindful in cities and crowded areas, keeping valuables secure, and avoiding poorly lit streets at night.” Tap water is generally unsafe to drink, so stick to bottled or filtered water. In tropical regions, mosquito protection is essential, especially in areas near the Amazon and Pantanal.

Gadhia also recommends packing light, breathable clothing made from natural fibers to combat heat and humidity. “Bring sun protection like a hat and high-SPF sunscreen, plus comfortable, closed-toe shoes for walking,” she says.

December to March is one of the most popular times to visit Brazil, with the weeks around New Year’s Eve and Carnival being especially busy. This time of year brings peak prices and limited availability, so plan early if you want to join festivities.

For more information on visiting Brazil, consult our guide to Things to Know Before You Go.