Brazil is one of the most beautiful countries in the world with spectacular cities, diverse nature, exotic wildlife and some of the most magnificent tourist attractions in the world. From exploring Rio de Janeiro, to seeing the break taking Foz do Iguazu Waterfalls, to going deep into the Amazon rainforest – there are so many places to visit.
Best Brazil Adventure Tours
These are the top rated small group and budget trips in Brazil.
Argentina & Brazil Highlights
• 10 days
• Price from £1,807
The Great South American Journey: Quito to Rio
• 65 days
• Price from £6,799
South America Explorer Trip
• 18 days, 3 countries
• Price from £3,917
Travel to Brazil
If you have been looking at active holidays in Brazil, you won’t be disappointed should you book flights to the country. The Latin American nation is colourful, intriguing and boasts spectacular cities, such as Rio de Janeiro, home to the famous carnival.
Brazil is fantastic to explore and basing yourself in Rio de Janeiro for a few days offers a great introduction to the country. It is also the ideal place to end your adventure in this corner of the globe. While it is not the capital of Brazil, which is Brasilia, many backpackers fly in and out of the city so it has become a popular hub to meet up and go on onward travels.
Local and international travel companies offer trips with weekly departures. If you are keen to explore more of the continent some travel operators offer South America tours which include Brazil and multiple other countries in the itinerary.
Brazil Facts
Capital City: Brasília
Currency: Brazilian Real, BRL
Language: Portuguese
Time Zone: -2 GMT, -3, GMT, -4 GMT, -5 GMT
Dialling Code: +55
Religions Practised: Christianity (Roman Catholic)
Total Area: 8,511,965 square kilometres
Population Size: 213,317,639
Voltage and Plug Info: 127-220 V.European plug with two round metal pins or American-style plug with two blades above a round grounding pin or Japanese-style plug with two parallel blades
Travel in Brazil
Find out everything you need to know before you go.
Best Time to Visit?
Weather-wise, there isn’t a bad time of year to visit Brazil. The temperature is always warm but the Amazon region has a lot of rainfall and humidity. The high season is December through to March, in which the country is at its most festive, but also its most crowded.
Getting There and Away
It’s possible to drive to Brazil through the many land borders in South America (every country except for Ecuador and Chile), or to catch a boat from Paraguay, Bolivia or Peru. The most popular international airports are Rio de Janeiro’s Aeroporto Galeão and São Paulo’s Aeroporto Guarulhos.
Visas
Citizens of the UK and most of the EU do not need a visa, however visitors from the USA, Canada, Australia and New Zealand do. The system is a reciprocal one, so in short only countries that require Brazilian citizens to have a visa upon visiting, need a visa in return. As visa requirements change from time to time, check the Brazilian Embassy for the latest information.
Safety
The risk of robbery is extremely high in Brazil. Don’t carry around expensive items and always be aware of your surroundings. Avoid favelas (shantytowns) unless you’re accompanied by someone who knows the area well and be extremely careful to only use ATMs that are inside banks. Brazil is renowned for scams involving ATM machines. Finally, be cautious when offered drinks, food or even cigarettes by strangers and don’t be too trusting.
Vaccinations and Health
A vaccination against yellow fever is essential if you are visiting northern or central western regions. If you are travelling into the country from Colombia, Peru or Bolivia, proof of a yellow fever vaccination is required. Ask your doctor for an International Certificate of Vaccination to show upon request. Some areas have a malaria problem so it is essential to seek medical advice in advance of your trip. Other advisable vaccinations are hepatitus A and B, and rabies.
How do I fit in?
Flash some flesh in this body-beautiful country and you’ll feel like you’re in camouflage. Showing off what you have is well respected, but add bling to your look and you’ll find yourself an immediate target for thieves.
Can I bend the rules?
Above all else, Brazilians are interested in having a good time, so although the legal drinking age is 18, bars and clubs can be pretty lax at checking IDs. Drugs, however, are another story. Heavy fines and jail sentences come to those who are in possession, using or trafficking.
Will I find myself?
If you don’t discover a new you, you’ll definitely discover leg muscles you never knew you had after an all-nighter at a samba club. For an eye opening experience check out volunteering programs in Brazil.
Which animals want me for lunch?
A spritz of mosquito repellent should suffice for cities and coastal villages, but venture into Amazonia or the Pantanal and you’ll find a whole host of hungry creatures, from jaguars to caiman.
Can I drink the water?
Yes, in big cities, but best stick to bottled outside of them.
