Brazil
WHAT CAN I EXPECT FROM BRAZIL
There are a few countries in the world that really don’t require an introduction. Brazil is one of them. It’s the fifth largest country in the world. You could spend an entire year exploring and still never exhaust the list of things to do here.
The consensus in the media is that it’s an unsafe place to visit, but that wasn’t my experience at all. I have mostly great things to say about this country that captured my heart so completely, that I contemplated moving there several times during my trip.
Picture perfect beaches? Check. The majestic Iguazu Falls—one of the New Seven Wonders of the World? Check. The most vibrant carnival in the world? Check!
Brazil is one of those places you need to visit at least once in your lifetime!
Nature in all it’s Glory
- Let’s start with the big one: the Amazon. It doesn’t get more natural than the world’s largest rainforest. Tall trees reach for the sky, and the air is filled with the constant sound of busy animals in their natural habitat. It’s so humbling to be a spectator of the beautiful force that is nature.
- Craving some Vitamin Sea? Brazil has over 7,000 kilometers of coastline, with every kind of beach paradise you can dream up. The iconic Copacabana and Ipanema beaches in Rio are legendary for their beauty and vibrant atmosphere.
- And for something more secluded, head south and explore hidden coves, or set sail for Fernando de Noronha, an island paradise where you’re sure to encounter dolphins and sea turtles.
- We can’t forget the ‘misterious’ (pun intended) Iguazu Falls. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a network of the most enchanting waterfalls in the world. Nothing compares to the feeling of watching powerful waves crash into huge rocks beneath you, reminding you just how awesome and fragile life really is.
- In Manaus, witness the unique phenomenon of the Meeting of the Waters. Here, the Rio Negro and the Solimões River converge, creating a stunning visual contrast where the black and brown waters flow side-by-side without mixing.
THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN BRAZIL
The Biggest Carnival in the World
When the Brazilians host a carnival, they do it right!
Get ready for a week-long technicolor celebration. It’s enchanting, it’s intense, it’s a full-fledged 15-day extravaganza that explodes across Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo every February/March.
The Carnival marks the arrival of Lent, but it’s also a joyous celebration of the end of the scorching Brazilian summer. The city transforms into an effusion of color, music, and dance. Millions of locals and international visitors flock to Rio, the heart of the festivities.
The epicenter of Rio’s Carnival is the Sambadrome Marquês de Sapucaí. This massive venue is the stage for dazzling parades featuring elaborate floats and samba schools. Costumed dancers in vibrant colors tell stories through movement and music, creating a mesmerizing spectacle of energy and passion.
The energy is infectious! Street parties erupt everywhere, pulsating with the rhythms of samba and funk carioca. Don’t be shy about joining the festivities. Hit the streets, mingle with the locals, and let the music take you wherever it wills!
Beautiful People
Brazil is a fusion of cultures. Walk down any street and you’ll see a beautiful blend of ethnicities and backgrounds. This diversity translates into a rich culture of traditions and religions. While things aren’t always perfect, Brazilians generally get along well, celebrating their differences.
Immerse yourself in the vibrant Afro-Brazilian traditions in Salvador. Feel the rhythm of samba pulse through your veins in Rio, or get swept away by the frevo beats during Olinda’s Carnival.
Best Time To Visit
Brazil’s a massive country, and its weather changes depending on where you are. The country generally experiences an equatorial climate, which comes with two main seasons–rainy and dry. Up north, it’s temperate all year round, rain or shine. Down south, things get a bit more seasonal.
- December to March is perfect if you’re looking to visit the beach. Just be prepared to share the sand with everyone else on the planet who had the same idea. Prices go up, and elbow room shrinks.
- If you’re planning on exploring the Amazon rainforest, visit in July. The dry season lasts until December, which means easier hikes and lower water levels—perfect if you’re not looking to get swept away (literally). But “dry season” in the Amazon is a relative term. I mean, it’s called a rainforest for a reason. Pack your raincoat, because it could still rain at any time.
- For good weather and fewer crowds, visit in October and November.
- If you plan to attend the Carnaval, visit in February or March (depending on Easter dates). Unfortunately, though, you can also expect sky-high prices and crowds that make rush hour look like a picnic.
- May to September is Brazil’s winter, so the beach crowds disappear, and hotels practically throw deals at you. The south can get a little too chilly for swimming, though. Head north if you still crave sunshine and warm nights.
TYPICAL COSTS WHEN TRAVELLING
Accommodation – Accommodation is a big chunk of any travel budget, so here’s a breakdown of what to expect in Brazil:
- Budget-Friendly Accommodation: Budget hotels in Brazil range from $30 to $100 per night. So, for a two-night stay, you could spend as little as $60.
- Mid-Range: For a balance between affordability and comfort, mid-range hotels in major cities average $80 to $150 per night, while smaller towns offer them for $50 to $100.
- Luxury Living: Luxury hotels can set you back $300 or more per night, depending on the season and availability.
Food – Food is one of the best parts of any trip! Here’s how much it costs to experience Brazil’s culinary scene:
- Budget-Friendly Food: Budget restaurants serve delicious meals for $5 to $15 per person.
For even better savings, explore the world of street food and convenience stores. Açaí bowls, savory pastries, and fresh fruit are all tasty and budget-friendly foods to try.
Street food and fast food will satisfy your taste buds for $5 to $10 per meal.
- Mid-Range Foods: Local restaurants offer casual dining with traditional Brazilian dishes for $10 to $20 per meal. Mid-range restaurants have a\ wider variety of dishes for $20 to $40 per meal.
- For a Luxurious Dining experience: For an unforgettable fine-dining experience, expect to spend $40 or more.
Transportation –
- Trains: Trains are in limited supply, with costs ranging from $10 to $50 depending on distance and class.
- Subway: Major cities like Rio and São Paulo have subways. Tickets cost $1 to $3 depending on distance.
- Buses: Bus prices vary based on distance and bus quality, ranging from $5 to $30.
- Taxis: Taxis are readily available in cities, with pricing depending on distance. A short ride can cost $5 to $10 USD, while longer journeys can range from $20 to $50.
- Rental Cars: Explore Brazil at your own pace with a rental car. Daily rates vary depending on rental duration, car type, and company, ranging from $30 to $100.
Suggested daily budget – If you’re on a tight budget, you can expect to spend between $40 to $60 per day, including accommodation, food, transportation, and tourist activities.
The average traveler can expect to spend around $80 to $120 per day.
MONEY SAVING TIPS
THINGS TO NOTE ABOUT BRAZIL
- To safeguard your valuables, invest in a theft-proof crossbody bag that stays close to your body.
- You may be thinking, “How different can Spanish and Portuguese be,” Right? Wrong! They’re completely different! While some Brazilians understand Spanish, Portuguese is the official language. Learning a few basic phrases will go a long way.
- Download Whatsapp! It’s essential for communication in Brazil – from contacting your Airbnb host to ordering food. It’s also how Brazilians stay connected!
June 12, 2024
