Brazil Travel Guide

Vast and captivating, Brazil blends breathtaking nature with vibrant culture. From the sandy shores of Copacabana to the Amazon rainforest, from spectacular Iguazu Falls to the Pantanal wetlands, and through the lively streets of Rio de Janeiro with its Rio Carnival, the country invites you to experience its culture, energy, and natural wonders.

Top cities to visit

  • Aerial view of the massive Christ the Redeemer statue overlooking Rio de Janeiro, Guanabara Bay, and surrounding mountains.

    Rio de Janeiro

    Rio de Janeiro is where nature meets urban life. Take the funicular up Corcovado or the cable car to Sugarloaf Mountain for incredible panoramic views. Relax on Copacabana beach and experience the lively atmosphere of Lapa’s bars and samba music.
  • Aerial view of the Octávio Frias de Oliveira bridge in São Paulo, Brazil, surrounded by highways and skyscrapers.

    São Paulo

    As Brazil’s true economic heart, São Paulo captivates with its vastness and vibrant cultural scene. Between towering skyscrapers, art galleries, bustling markets, and bohemian neighborhoods, the city offers a rich urban experience, complemented by its renowned gastronomy and lively nightlife.
  • Colourful street in Pelourinho, Salvador de Bahia, Brazil, with baroque church and pastel-coloured houses.

    Salvador de Bahia

    Salvador de Bahia is like an open-air museum. In the UNESCO-listed Pelourinho historical district, pastel façades, cobblestone streets, and baroque churches create a unique setting. Afro-Brazilian culture is strong here, expressed through music, cuisine, traditions, and a vibrant carnival.
  • Aerial view of Brasilia, Brazil, showing geometric avenues, modernist buildings, and large green spaces.

    Brasilia

    Brazil’s futuristic capital, Brasilia impresses visitors with its geometric shapes and grand perspectives. With iconic monuments, wide boulevards, and expansive green spaces, the city offers a unique urban experience highlighted by modernist architecture.
  • Teatro Amazonas in Manaus, Brazil, a neo-Renaissance building with pink façades and a colourful dome inspired by the Brazilian flag.

    Manaus

    In the heart of the Amazon rainforest, Manaus reveals both an urban and historic side, highlighted by the Teatro Amazonas. From the city, explore the “Meeting of the Waters” where the Rio Negro and Solimões converge, then venture into the jungle with a local guide to observe its unique flora and fauna.
  • Aerial view of the massive Christ the Redeemer statue overlooking Rio de Janeiro, Guanabara Bay, and surrounding mountains.

    Rio de Janeiro

    Rio de Janeiro is where nature meets urban life. Take the funicular up Corcovado or the cable car to Sugarloaf Mountain for incredible panoramic views. Relax on Copacabana beach and experience the lively atmosphere of Lapa’s bars and samba music.
  • Aerial view of the Octávio Frias de Oliveira bridge in São Paulo, Brazil, surrounded by highways and skyscrapers.

    São Paulo

    As Brazil’s true economic heart, São Paulo captivates with its vastness and vibrant cultural scene. Between towering skyscrapers, art galleries, bustling markets, and bohemian neighborhoods, the city offers a rich urban experience, complemented by its renowned gastronomy and lively nightlife.
  • Colourful street in Pelourinho, Salvador de Bahia, Brazil, with baroque church and pastel-coloured houses.

    Salvador de Bahia

    Salvador de Bahia is like an open-air museum. In the UNESCO-listed Pelourinho historical district, pastel façades, cobblestone streets, and baroque churches create a unique setting. Afro-Brazilian culture is strong here, expressed through music, cuisine, traditions, and a vibrant carnival.
  • Aerial view of Brasilia, Brazil, showing geometric avenues, modernist buildings, and large green spaces.

    Brasilia

    Brazil’s futuristic capital, Brasilia impresses visitors with its geometric shapes and grand perspectives. With iconic monuments, wide boulevards, and expansive green spaces, the city offers a unique urban experience highlighted by modernist architecture.
  • Teatro Amazonas in Manaus, Brazil, a neo-Renaissance building with pink façades and a colourful dome inspired by the Brazilian flag.

    Manaus

    In the heart of the Amazon rainforest, Manaus reveals both an urban and historic side, highlighted by the Teatro Amazonas. From the city, explore the “Meeting of the Waters” where the Rio Negro and Solimões converge, then venture into the jungle with a local guide to observe its unique flora and fauna.

Useful information

Official language(s)

The official language of Brazil is Portuguese. Brazilian Portuguese is known for its melodic accent and local expressions. English and Spanish are understood in major cities and tourist areas, but less so outside these zones.

Flight duration

Direct flight: 10h30

Connecting flight: 15 to 22 hours (depending on connection times)

Time zone difference

Brazil time zone: UTC-2 to UTC-5 

1–3 hours ahead of Quebec (EST) 
1–2 hours ahead of Quebec (EDT) 

*Like in Canada, Brazil spans multiple time zones. The time difference varies depending on the region. 

Currency

Real, plural form reais (BRL/R$) 

Credit cards are widely accepted in major cities, hotels, and restaurants. However, it is recommended to carry cash for small shops, local markets, or remote areas where card terminals and ATMs may not be available.

Tips

Tipping in Brazil is not mandatory, but it is appreciated for good service. In restaurants, a tip of around 10% is usually included in the bill. For taxis, it is common to round up the fare, and for parking attendants, leaving a few reais (4-5) is customary.

Safety

In Brazil, it is recommended to stay vigilant, especially in major cities and crowded areas, where pickpocketing and scams can occur. Avoid displaying valuables, always use official transportation, and research which neighbourhoods are safe to visit (vulnerable areas should be avoided). In natural settings, such as the Amazon jungle or beaches, follow local guidelines and respect the environment and wildlife.

Before any foreign trip, visit the Government of Canada’s Brazil Travel Advice page to find out about the current situation in the country.

Top things to do and see

  • Marvel at Iguazu Falls

  • Climb Corcovado Mountain to see Christ the Redeemer

  • Relax on Copacabana and Ipanema beaches

  • Experience Rio Carnival

  • Explore the Amazon Rainforest from Manaus

Hidden gems to discover

  • Fortaleza

    In Fortaleza, days stretch between swimming at Praia do Futuro, strolling along Beira Mar Avenue, and exploring the local artisan market. Take a trip to Cumbuco to try kitesurfing, visit the Dragão do Mar Center of Art and Culture, and experience a bohemian night in the bars of the Iracema neighbourhood to the rhythms of Brazilian music.

  • Recife

    Recife blends historic streets, festivities, and golden shores. Explore its canals by boat; stroll through its historic centre, Recife Antigo; dance to the rhythm of frevo during its flamboyant Carnival; relax on Boa Viagem beach; and wander in nearby Olinda, a UNESCO-listed colonial town.

  • The Pantanal

    A vast UNESCO-listed wildlife sanctuary, the Pantanal showcases Brazil's nature at its finest. On a 4x4 safari or a canoe trip, you can spot jaguars, caimans, capybaras, and colourful macaws. Wetlands, lakes, and lush forests stretch as far as the eye can see, offering one of South America's most spectacular natural displays.

  • Fernando de Noronha Island

    A pristine paradise off the coast of Brazil, Fernando de Noronha enchants with emerald waters, volcanic cliffs, and some of the country's most beautiful beaches. As an exceptional marine sanctuary, the island offers snorkeling, diving with turtles and dolphins, coastal trails, and panoramas bathed in tropical light.

  • Fortaleza

    In Fortaleza, days stretch between swimming at Praia do Futuro, strolling along Beira Mar Avenue, and exploring the local artisan market. Take a trip to Cumbuco to try kitesurfing, visit the Dragão do Mar Center of Art and Culture, and experience a bohemian night in the bars of the Iracema neighbourhood to the rhythms of Brazilian music.

  • Recife

    Recife blends historic streets, festivities, and golden shores. Explore its canals by boat; stroll through its historic centre, Recife Antigo; dance to the rhythm of frevo during its flamboyant Carnival; relax on Boa Viagem beach; and wander in nearby Olinda, a UNESCO-listed colonial town.

  • The Pantanal

    A vast UNESCO-listed wildlife sanctuary, the Pantanal showcases Brazil's nature at its finest. On a 4x4 safari or a canoe trip, you can spot jaguars, caimans, capybaras, and colourful macaws. Wetlands, lakes, and lush forests stretch as far as the eye can see, offering one of South America's most spectacular natural displays.

  • Fernando de Noronha Island

    A pristine paradise off the coast of Brazil, Fernando de Noronha enchants with emerald waters, volcanic cliffs, and some of the country's most beautiful beaches. As an exceptional marine sanctuary, the island offers snorkeling, diving with turtles and dolphins, coastal trails, and panoramas bathed in tropical light.

Highlights

  • The beauty and diversity of landscapes: beaches, tropical rainforests, savannas, and mountains
  • Monuments and historic colonial districts
  • Warm hospitality and a legendary festive spirit
  • Iconic music and dances: Samba, Bossa Nova, Forró, Frevo

Keep in mind

  • Long distances between regions and main tourist attractions
  • Destination not very family-friendly: few child-specific activities and large crowds; heightened vigilance is recommended
  • Presence of mosquitoes and tropical diseases in certain areas

Local food and gastronomy

  • Feijoada

    Brazil's national dish, feijoada is a hearty stew of black beans, salted meats, and sausages slow-cooked to perfection. Rich, fragrant, and generous, it is traditionally enjoyed on Saturdays around a large table, served with white rice, sautéed cabbage, farofa, and orange slices.

  • Pão de queijo

    Crispy on the outside and soft with a slight stretch inside, pão de queijo delights from the very first bite. A specialty of Minas Gerais, this small cheese bread made with cassava starch is served warm and enjoyed at breakfast, as a snack, or with a steaming cup of Brazilian coffee.

  • Acarajé

    Originating from Bahia, acarajé is a black-eyed pea fritter fried in palm oil. It is split open and filled with shrimp and vatapá, a spicy creamy mixture made from shrimp, cashews, and coconut milk. A symbol of Afro-Brazilian cuisine, it combines crispy textures with the bold flavours of the Northeast.

  • Brigadeiro

    A quintessential Brazilian treat, brigadeiro is a sweet, creamy chocolate truffle made with condensed milk and rolled in chocolate sprinkles. Rich, soft, and indulgent, it embodies both the simplicity of Brazilian traditions and the pure pleasure of chocolate.

  • Caipirinha

    Brazil's iconic cocktail, the caipirinha blends cachaça—a Brazilian sugarcane spirit—with fresh lime juice, brown sugar, and crushed ice. Refreshing and tangy, it evokes the festive spirit of Rio's beaches and is best enjoyed at sunset to the relaxed rhythm of samba.

  • Feijoada

    Brazil's national dish, feijoada is a hearty stew of black beans, salted meats, and sausages slow-cooked to perfection. Rich, fragrant, and generous, it is traditionally enjoyed on Saturdays around a large table, served with white rice, sautéed cabbage, farofa, and orange slices.

  • Pão de queijo

    Crispy on the outside and soft with a slight stretch inside, pão de queijo delights from the very first bite. A specialty of Minas Gerais, this small cheese bread made with cassava starch is served warm and enjoyed at breakfast, as a snack, or with a steaming cup of Brazilian coffee.

  • Acarajé

    Originating from Bahia, acarajé is a black-eyed pea fritter fried in palm oil. It is split open and filled with shrimp and vatapá, a spicy creamy mixture made from shrimp, cashews, and coconut milk. A symbol of Afro-Brazilian cuisine, it combines crispy textures with the bold flavours of the Northeast.

  • Brigadeiro

    A quintessential Brazilian treat, brigadeiro is a sweet, creamy chocolate truffle made with condensed milk and rolled in chocolate sprinkles. Rich, soft, and indulgent, it embodies both the simplicity of Brazilian traditions and the pure pleasure of chocolate.

  • Caipirinha

    Brazil's iconic cocktail, the caipirinha blends cachaça—a Brazilian sugarcane spirit—with fresh lime juice, brown sugar, and crushed ice. Refreshing and tangy, it evokes the festive spirit of Rio's beaches and is best enjoyed at sunset to the relaxed rhythm of samba.

Good to know

  • Lightweight clothing is recommended to cope with the heat, and sturdy shoes are advised for walking on the many cobblestone streets.
  • There are many mosquitoes due to the proximity of the tropical rainforest. Bring effective insect repellent and consult the Government of Canada’s recommendations regarding the Zika virus.
  • It is important to stay vigilant: avoid walking alone at night or displaying valuables.
  • A visa is required to enter Brazil.

What to bring back?

  • A Brazilian hammock

  • Indigenous calabash bowl

  • Handmade colourful bracelet or necklace

  • Handcrafted figurine from Foz do Iguaçu

  • Ribbon keychain from Salvador de Bahia

Frequently asked questions

Brazil can be visited year-round, but the climate varies by region. The best time to visit depends on the type of trip you are seeking. For a first-time visit, October and November are ideal: the weather is pleasant, nature is lush, and crowds are moderate.

Brazilian summer, from December to March, is hot, humid, and sunny, with temperatures reaching up to 40 °C (104 °F). This period is recommended for beach lovers. However, it also coincides with the Rio Carnival and the high tourist season, meaning larger crowds and higher prices.

There are several effective ways to get around Brazil. Due to the country's vast size, flying remains the fastest and most convenient option for long distances, especially between major cities like Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo. The bus network is also well-developed and offers an economical and reliable alternative for long-distance travel.

In large cities, taxis and services like Uber are widely available, but it is advisable to remain cautious of scams and to choose official services. Renting a car can be an excellent option for exploring certain regions at your own pace, particularly coastal or more remote areas. However, traffic can be heavy, and local driving can be unpredictable. It is recommended to have an international driver's licence and full insurance coverage.

10 to 15 days

This is the recommended duration for a first trip, allowing you to visit two or three must-see destinations such as Rio de Janeiro, Salvador, or the spectacular Iguazu Falls, while still enjoying some relaxing time at the beach.

  • Rio Carnival, in Rio de Janeiro, in February or March. This is Brazil's most famous cultural experience, known worldwide. For four days, you can watch the spectacular parades of the samba schools, join street parties, and soak in the unmatched festive atmosphere.
  • Festa Junina, across Brazil, in June. To celebrate the saints of June, traditional rural Brazilian festivities take place, featuring folk dances, bonfires, typical foods, games, and contests in a colourful setting.
  • Campeonato Brasileiro, local soccer (futebol) championships, from May to December. Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo offer the most spectacular atmospheres, with chanting fans, contagious enthusiasm, and the unique energy of Brazilian stadiums. For the best experience, it is recommended to book tickets in advance and choose official sections for safety.

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The world is full of wonders waiting to be discovered. After exploring the beauty of Brazil, let yourself be captivated by new places that promise unforgettable experiences.