From Rio to The Amazon: Explore Brazil
Brazil’s climate and Weather
Brazil has a humid tropical climate, Daily temperatures are around 25 Celsius and it is often very humid. The hottest month is February (28c) and the coldest is July (22c), making July and August the best months to travel to Brazil in. It frequently rains in Brazil with the wettest period being between December to April. It is important to bear in mind that Brazil is a very large country being the fifth largest country in the world so it is not a good idea to generalise when it comes to climate and weather. In order to stay safe whilst travelling in Brazil you should:
- Stay hydrated, making sure to drink electrolyte high drinks
- Wear breathable and light clothing
- Applying sunscreen with high SPF, 30 or higher
- Avoid spending prolonged periods of time in direct contact with sunlight
- Seek shade often
- Use insect repellent
- Carry a poncho/waterproof jacket
Food and water safety in Brazil
There are many delicious food options to try in Brazil with famous dishes including; Picancha, Moqueca and Farofa. You would not want to miss out on the amazing food available however it is important to be vigilant in order to stay safe whilst eating in Brazil. It is also important to note that tap water in many parts of Brazil is not considered safe to drink, so it’s best to stick to bottled or filtered water. In order to stay safe you should:
- Opt for well cooked foods
- Avoid raw or uncooked meats and seafood
- Ensure that fruit and vegetables are washed in clean water
- Try to stick to peelable fruit
- Choose busy or well reviewed restaurants, as they tend to be more hygienic
- Carry hand sanitiser or frequently wash your hands
Getting around and safety in Brazil
Getting around in Brazil is relatively easy, with options ranging from domestic flights and buses, for long distance travel to urban metro
systems and ride-hailing apps like Uber, for in the city. In major cities like São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, the metro is a fast and affordable
way to travel, while buses and taxis are widely available but may be slower due to traffic. If renting a car, be prepared for aggressive driving and unpredictable road conditions. In order to stay safe you should:
- Avoid displaying valuables, especially in crowded areas
- Be cautious in unfamiliar neighbourhoods
- Try to travel in the daytime
- Stick to registered taxis or reputable ride hailing services like uber
- Always check for official company markings
Air quality and safety in Brazil
Air quality in Brazil varies significantly by region, with major cities like São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro often experiencing high levels of air pollution due to vehicle emissions, industrial activities, and deforestation-related fires. The Amazon region also suffers from seasonal wildfires, which release harmful pollutants into the atmosphere, worsening air quality. Poor air quality can cause respiratory issues, allergies, and other health concerns, particularly for children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing conditions. In order to stay safe you should:
- Wear a face mask
- Take breaks in well-ventilated areas
- Avoid peak commuter hours, 7-9AM and 4-9PM
- Check the real-time air quality index (AQI)
Respecting Brazil’s culture and customs
Respecting Brazil’s culture and customs is essential for fostering positive interactions and showing appreciation for the country’s rich diversity. It is also important to always be respectful towards locals while travelling as you are a guest in their country. Brazilians value warm, friendly communication, often greeting with a handshake, hug, or cheek kiss, depending on familiarity. Punctuality is also more relaxed in social settings but being late for a business meeting will be seen as unprofessional. In order to be respectful of Brazil’s customs and culture
you should:
- Dress appropriately for different settings
- Avoid making negative comparisons to other countries
- Learn some basic Portuguese phrases
- Be aware and respectful of regional differences and indigenous traditions
- Showing interest and respectfully participating in culture is encouraged
Brazil emergency contact numbers:
190– Police (only tend to show up to active crime scenes, it is best to go to a local police station to report any other crimes)
193– Firefighters (includes car crashes and getting lost on hikes)
192– Ambulances (do not expect fast response times)
