South America

Brazil

My Brazil notes come from two weeks in Rio de Janeiro. It's for people who want beaches and mountains in the same day and don't mind a city that stays up late.

In Rio I'd stay in Copacabana or Ipanema for easy beach access, then give a day each to Christ the Redeemer and Santa Teresa, Sugarloaf and Urca at sunset, and Ipanema and Leblon. Two weeks lets you slow down, but even a week covers the big sights. There's a São Paulo page too, but Rio is where my stories are so far.

Go December to March for beach season and Carnival, or May to October if you prefer cooler, drier days. My tip: book Christ the Redeemer tickets online ahead of time to skip the long lines, and keep valuables close on busy beaches like Copacabana.

Know before you go

Best time & quick facts

Best time: Dec–Mar for beach season & Carnival, or May–Oct for cooler, drier weather
Currency
Language: Portuguese
Time zones: BRT (UTC-3)
Power plugs: Type N (also Type C compatible), 127V
Tap water: Prefer bottled or filtered water
Budget: $55–$160 USD (R$300–R$850 BRL)
Getting around: Metro, VLT, buses, taxis & rideshare
Visa (US citizens): Required: apply for an eVisa before you travel.
Entry requirements on travel.state.gov
Safety: Level 2Exercise increased caution
US State Dept advisoryUpdated Aug 31, 2026

Check visas & entry rules for your passport

Places to explore

Explore destinations in Brazil

Weather in Brazil

Typical monthly averages, not a live forecastLive weather

Rio de Janeiro features a tropical savanna/monsoon climate characterized by hot, humid summers with frequent afternoon thunderstorms and mild, noticeably drier winters with pleasant beach conditions.

Best time to visit: May to October, when humidity and rainfall are lower and temperatures remain pleasantly warm.