UK
Carnival, Coastlines & Cultural Fire
The largest country in South America, Brazil is a kaleidoscope of rhythms, rainforests, and revelry. From the samba-fuelled streets of Rio to the wilds of the Amazon and the wetlands of the Pantanal, it’s a destination that pulses with life. For UK travellers, Brazil offers unforgettable landscapes, vibrant cities, and a culture that celebrates joy.
Air Travel
Flights from London to São Paulo or Rio de Janeiro take around 11–13 hours, often direct or with stopovers via Lisbon, Madrid, or Paris. Domestic flights are essential for reaching the Amazon, Pantanal, and northeast beaches.
Airlines
British Airways and LATAM offer direct flights. Other carriers include TAP Air Portugal, Air France, and Iberia. Domestic travel is served by LATAM Brazil, Gol, and Azul.
Cheap flights to Brazil
Brazil
Carnival, Coastlines & Cultural Fire
Landmark
Travel Season
- May–September: Dry season in Amazon and Pantanal
- December–March: Summer and Carnival season
- Year-round: Coastal cities and beach towns
Currency & Money Tips
- Currency: Brazilian Real (BRL)
- Cards widely accepted; cash useful for small vendors
- ATMs are common but may charge foreign cards
- Tipping: 10% in restaurants is often included
Connectivity
- Good Wi-Fi in cities and hotels
- Local SIMs: Vivo, Claro, TIM
- Coverage drops in remote Amazon and rural areas
Getting Around
- Domestic flights for long distances
- Long-distance buses are comfortable and extensive (1001, Cometa, Real Expresso)
- Ride apps (Uber, 99) in major cities
- No tourist rail network
Time Zone
- Brazil spans multiple time zones. Most tourist areas use Brasília Time (BRT) – GMT-3 Daylight saving is no longer observed
Etiquette & Culture
- Portuguese is the official language; English is limited outside tourist zones
- Brazilians are warm, expressive, and informal
- Greet with a handshake or cheek kiss
- Carnival is a national passion—expect music and celebration year-round
Top Destinations
- Rio de Janeiro: Beaches, samba, and iconic views
- São Paulo: Cultural capital and culinary powerhouse
- Salvador: Music, history, and Afro-Brazilian heritage
- Manaus: Gateway to Amazon adventures
- Pantanal: Wildlife safaris and birdwatching
- Florianópolis: Surf, seafood, and island vibes
- Paraty: Colonial charm and coastal beauty
fastfood Food & Drink
- Must-try: Feijoada (black bean stew), Moqueca (fish stew), Pão de queijo (cheese bread), Acarajé (Bahian street food)
- Drinks: Caipirinha, Guaraná soda, coconut water
- Tap water isn’t safe—stick to bottled
- Brazil’s regional cuisines vary widely—each state has its own flavour
personal_bag What to Pack
- Light clothing for tropical heat
- Waterproof gear for rainforest and waterfalls
- Power adapter (Type N – 127/220V)
- Sunscreen, insect repellent, and swimwear
Best Time to Visit
- Carnival (Feb/Mar): Rio, Salvador, and Recife explode with colour
- Dry season (May–Sep): Best for Amazon and Pantanal
- Shoulder seasons (Apr & Oct): Mild weather and fewer crowds
health_and_safety Safety & Health
- FCDO advises caution in parts of Amazonas and urban outskirts
- Emergency number: 190 (police), 192 (ambulance)
- Travel insurance is essential
- Vaccinations: Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Yellow Fever (Amazon); mosquito precautions advised
- Avoid carrying valuables and stay alert in crowded areas
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Brasilia
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Sao Paulo
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Salvador
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Recife
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Rio de Janeiro
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Florianopolis
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Vitoria
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