Make the most of your South American getaway with our Brazil travel tips
Dance the night away at an all-night street party, venture into the depths of the lush Amazon rainforest, experience gorgeous colonial architecture, learn the art of capoeira or show off your football skills– this is what holidays to Brazil are all about. There is plenty to put a smile on your face in this thrilling destination, which also happens to be the largest country in South America. Whether you’re off on a two-week tour or packing much more into a longer backpacking stint, it can be a little tricky knowing where to begin. Check out these top Brazil travel tips to ensure you get the most from your holiday and stay safe and healthy each step of the way.
Rio de Janeiro
No trip to Brazil is complete without spending some time in Rio de Janeiro, surely one of the most colourful and vibrant cities in the world. If you can coincide your trip with Carnival, when samba troops and pageant groups take to the streets, better yet! Head up Corcovado to get a selfie with the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue and take in the spellbinding view of the city, beaches and surrounding vegetation – truly incredible!
The Pantanal and Iguazu Falls
Top of the list of our Brazil travel tips stem from the country’s unique natural heritage. Wildlife lovers simply must make time for the Pantanal, the largest wetlands in the world, located in the west of the country. Over 11,000 species call this area home, including the rare Marsh Deer and Hyacinth Macaw. Cameras definitely at the ready! Another must-visit natural site is the astounding Iguazu Falls, which have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Be wowed by the power and magnificence of these waterfalls, which stretch for over 3km! If you’re heading into rural areas remember that you will need additional travel vaccinations for Brazil.
Salvador
Salvador, or the ‘capital of happiness’, is the ultimate destination for letting go of all your worries. With bright colonial architecture, gold-laden churches and fascinating museums, there is plenty of distraction in this cultural haven. Beach bums can head to the exquisite coastline found just outside the city, where there are countless palm tree-lined, golden beaches. Throw in a few cocktails and you’ve got yourself the perfect holiday destination.
Travel health advice
Don’t let your Brazil backpacking adventure be tainted or, worse yet, cut short because of sickness. It’s important to prepare yourself for your getaway by packing travel essentials like a first aid kit, insect repellent and sun cream, and ensuring you have all of the recommended vaccinations for Brazil. All travellers to Brazil should get yellow fever, tetanus, hepatitis A and typhoid immunisations. If you’re heading into rural areas, then make sure you also get vaccinated against diphtheria, meningococcal meningitis and tuberculosis. It is also essential that you protect yourself against malaria and take anti-malarial tablets over the duration of your holiday.
When to go
Brazil lies in the tropics and therefore enjoys warm temperatures throughout the year – particularly in comparison to our mild summers and dull winters. Because of its vastness, the climate tends to vary depending on where you are. For example, in Rio de Janeiro and the South there is more rain between October to May while in the Northeast the sun shines bright all year round. No matter when you travel you’re sure to enjoy all Brazil has to offer, although you may have to pack a rain jacket for some destinations. Even though prices are higher and the country is undoubtedly busier, we’d recommend fitting Carnival, held before Ash Wednesday, into your trip. There really is nothing quite like it!
So there you have it, some top tips to ensure you have the most magical and exciting Brazilian escapade possible. Spend a little time thinking about exactly what you want to experience and where you fancy heading, as well as getting yourself physically ready for your getaway. Just one other thing – can we come too?
Those travelling to South America are strongly advised to book an appointment at one of the many TMB travel health clinics to find out which vaccinations they require and to get the best advice about how to travel safely.