Brazil
Travel Guide
The biggest country in South America! What got me falling in love with Brazil is the meat! The first thing I did when I arrived was go to a Churrasco (Brazillian BBQ). I remember it was unlimited meat and the waiters came with fresh cooked meat going to your table and cutting a piece of steak onto your plate.
Of course there is alot more then just food in Brazil, with Brazil being such a huge country and taking so much space in south america, it has alot of different experiences you can do and see. With this Brazil Travel Guide, you can learn all of it here and how you can be a solo female traveler in Brazil.
Destinations
- SAO PAULO
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Brazil depends on the region and activities you’re interested in. December to March is ideal for beach destinations like Rio de Janeiro and Florianópolis, with warm weather and lively festivals, including Carnival in February or March. April to June and September to November offer pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds, and lower prices, making them great for exploring cities and natural wonders like the Amazon and Iguazu Falls. The Amazon Rainforest is best visited from June to October when there’s less rain, and wildlife is easier to spot.
Know before you go
Language: Portuguese
Currency: Brazilian Real (BRL)
Cash and Card: You can use both cash and cards in Brazil. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in cities, restaurants, hotels, and shops, but it’s always good to carry some cash for small purchases, local markets, and remote areas where card payments may not be available. Visa and Mastercard are the most commonly accepted cards, while American Express and Discover may not be accepted everywhere.
Tipping: Tipping in Brazil is not mandatory, but it is appreciated. In restaurants, a 10% service charge is often included in the bill. If it’s not included, leaving 10% is customary but optional. For taxis, rounding up the fare is common, and in hotels, small tips for porters and housekeeping are appreciated. In bars and cafés, leaving some change is a nice gesture but not expected.
Plugs: Type N
Apps: Uber, 99
Emergency Number: 190
Sim Card Provider: Claro, Vivo, TIM, Oi
Must see attractions
TBA
Food recommendations
TBA
Evening hotspots
TBA
Safety
Brazil has a high crime rate, especially violent crime, and travelers are advised to exercise a high degree of caution, particularly before and during festivals like Carnival. Tourists are often targeted, so it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings. It’s essential to know emergency numbers: 193 for fire, 192 for medical emergencies, and 190 for police. For further details, refer to the full safety advice on Smartraveller here.
Travel Advice
Is it safe to drink tap water in Brazil?
In Brazil, tap water is generally not safe to drink in most areas, especially outside major cities. It’s advised to drink bottled or filtered water, particularly in rural or less-developed regions. In major cities like Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, water is typically treated and safe for washing, but bottled water is still recommended for drinking.
Are there any customs or etiquette I should be aware of in Brazil?
Brazilians are friendly and affectionate. It’s polite to greet people with a handshake or kiss on the cheek in informal settings. Dress codes may vary depending on the area.
What vaccinations do I need before visiting Brazil?
Vaccinations like Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, and Yellow Fever are recommended, depending on the areas you’re visiting. Always check with your healthcare provider.
What are the must-try foods in Brazil?
Be sure to try traditional dishes like feijoada, pão de queijo, açaí, and brigadeiro.
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