VirtualCountries.com: Essential Information Brazil

Know this essential information on Brazil

When to Go

90% of Brazil falls within a tropical zone, so it rarely gets very cold, but because of the size of Brazil there is a lot of regional variation in climate. Summer occurs from December to March in Brazil. Summer is generally the best time to travel to Brazil, as most carnivals and festivals are held in February, however prices do go up and the weather may be a little humid and hot sometimes. May to November is Brazil's dry season, the northeast region has beautiful stretches of seashore and the heat is tempered by constant sea breezes, this season is also a little cheaper to visit. Most establishments in Brazil offer reduced rates from April to June and from August to November.

Weather

Brazil has a tropical climate with subtropical conditions in some regions. Summer occurs between December and March, while winter occurs from June to August. Winter temperatures in Brazil vary from 13°C to 18°C, and summer temperatures shoot up into the high 30°C. For most parts of the rest of the year the temperatures in Brazil hovers around 25°C. It is recommended to take cool summer clothes on your trip to Brazil, regardless of when you are going.

Health and Safety

Your health shouldn't generally be at risk while traveling in Brazil, however vaccinations for yellow fever may be required for some depending on you country of origin. Anti-malarials and several other vaccinations are recommended. You should also try to avoid mosquitoes and mosquito bites at all times. Try not to use perfumes and aftershaves, use a mosquito net when you sleep. Use pyrethrum, a mosquito repellent on your clothes and try to wear light clothes with long sleeves and trousers, if at all possible. Generally Brazil is a safe country to travel in, however there are a few cases of petty theft such as pick pocketing. Use should just avoid deserted isles and alleyways, be vigilant and do not flaunt your wealth unnecessary.

Visas and Passports

Citizens of Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the United States and the EU need visas for visits of up to 90 days in Brazil. All foreign visitors to Brazil need passports (valid for at least six months after the end of the journey) to enter the country and to re-enter their home country. Returning home with an expired passport is illegal and could result in a fine.

Money and Currency

The official Brazilian currency is the Real, the symbol is R$. Brazil has an abundance of ATM machines, that accepts all major credit cards such as MasterCard, Visa, American Express and Diners Club. Most bi establishments, restaurants and hotels will accept credit cards, whereas smaller shops will insist on cash. Tips are not included on the menu prices in the restaurants, a 10 % tip is satisfactory. It is customary to tip your tour guides about US$3 to $5 per person per day, and your coach or car driver about US$2-$3.