Brazil holidays

Brazil occupies almost half of the South American continent, giving it a wonderful cultural diversity and rich geography. A trip to Brazil can often feel like combining many destinations in one, and with our multi-centre holidays, that often is the case.

At Llama Travel, we have years of experience selling Latin America, and we only sell direct, so you always have the chance to speak to an expert and pay the lowest prices. Here are 7 more reasons to visit Brazil with Llama Travel.

Thinking of travelling to Brazil?

From the vibrant energy of Rio de Janeiro and the colonial streets of Paraty to the wildlife-rich Pantanal wetlands and the thunderous Iguazu Falls, Brazil offers one of South America’s most varied travel experiences. Whether you’re planning your first visit or returning to explore further, our FAQs answer the most common questions about travelling to Brazil from the UK.

Before You Go

Q: Do I need a visa to travel to Brazil from the UK?
A: No. British citizens do not currently require a visa to visit Brazil for tourism. Your passport should be valid for the duration of your stay, and you may be asked to show proof of onward travel and accommodation on arrival. Entry requirements can change, so it is always worth checking the latest advice before travelling.

Q: What vaccinations do I need for Brazil?
A: No vaccinations are compulsory for most travellers, but Yellow Fever precautions are usually recommended when visiting Brazil, particularly for areas such as the Pantanal or Amazon. Malaria precautions may also be advised for the Amazon Rainforest. We recommend consulting your GP or a travel clinic before travel, and checking the latest health advice on TravelHealthPro before departure.

Q: What should I pack for a holiday in Brazil?
A: Lightweight clothing is suitable for most of Brazil, although conditions vary depending on where you are travelling. Coastal destinations such as Rio de Janeiro are warm year-round, while evenings can feel cooler during the winter months from June to August. In the Pantanal and Amazon, long-sleeved breathable clothing and closed shoes are recommended to help protect against insects.

Comfortable walking shoes are essential, particularly in destinations such as Paraty, where cobbled streets are part of the town’s charm. A lightweight waterproof jacket or umbrella is useful, as rain showers are possible throughout the year. We also recommend bringing sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat and insect repellent.

Electricity in Brazil is generally 110V and plug sockets are usually the two-round-pin type, so travellers from the UK should bring an adaptor.

It is also a legal requirement to carry identification in Brazil, so we recommend carrying a photocopy of your passport while out and about.

Q: When is the best time to visit Brazil?
A: Brazil can be visited year-round, although the best time depends on where you are going. Rio de Janeiro is warm throughout the year, while the Pantanal is generally best visited during the dry season between May and September, when wildlife viewing is at its best.

Q: How long are the flights from the UK to Brazil?
A: Direct flights from London to Rio de Janeiro or São Paulo usually take around 11 to 12 hours. Internal flights within Brazil can also be lengthy due to the country’s size, and journeys between destinations often involve connections in hubs such as São Paulo.

Practical Information

Q: What’s the weather like in Brazil?
A: Brazil is a huge country with varied climates. Rio de Janeiro is hot year-round, with temperatures often between 20°C and 35°C, while the Pantanal has a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. Coastal destinations such as Paraty are warm and humid, and rain showers are possible throughout the year.

Q: What should I know about local customs and etiquette?
A: Brazilians are generally warm, friendly and sociable, and visitors are often made to feel very welcome. Casual dress is common in most places, particularly in beach destinations, although people tend to dress smarter for restaurants and evenings out. Learning a few basic Portuguese phrases is appreciated and can go a long way when travelling around the country.

Q: What is the time difference?
A: Most of Brazil operates between GMT -3 and GMT -4 hours, depending on the region and time of year.

Q: Is Brazil expensive?
A: Brazil generally offers good value for money, especially compared with Europe. Costs vary depending on the destination, with Rio de Janeiro tending to be more expensive than smaller towns and rural areas.

Q: Do people speak English?
A: Portuguese is the main language spoken in Brazil. English is spoken in some hotels and tourist areas, but it is less widely spoken than in some other South American destinations. Your Llama Travel guide will help with communication during your holiday.

Q: What is the tipping culture in Brazil?
A: If you receive good service, you may want to leave a tip. This is completely at your discretion. Most restaurants include a 10% tip on your bill. If it is not already included on the bill, your waiter will often mention this to you. Taxi drivers in Brazil do not usually expect a tip; however they tend to round up the metered fare to the nearest Real. When staying in a lodge in the Pantanal or jungle, there is often a tipping jar in the reception/bar area, which is shared between the lodge staff and guides. Approximately BRL20 is suggested for a 3-night stay. As most guides in Brazil work on a freelance basis, you may wish to tip your guide directly. In this case, around BRL5 per day is suggested. On a full day excursion from a city in Brazil, tipping guides BRL3-5 per person is usual if you are in a group.

Q: What currency is used in Brazil?
A: The Brazilian Real (BRL) is the local currency.

Q: Can I use debit and credit cards in Brazil?
A: Yes. Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted, and cash machines are available in most cities and airports. It is still useful to carry some cash, particularly in smaller towns and rural areas. ATMs are available in most urban areas, although not all machines accept international cards.

Health and Safety

Q: Is Brazil safe to travel to?
A: Yes. Most visitors travel to Brazil without any problems, particularly when travelling on organised itineraries. As with any destination, it is important to use common sense, avoid displaying valuables and take taxis after dark in larger cities such as Rio.

Q: What happens if I get ill while in Brazil?
A: Medical facilities in major cities are generally good. Your guide or hotel staff can help arrange assistance if needed. Comprehensive travel insurance covering medical treatment and repatriation is essential.

Q: Is Brazil suitable for solo travellers?
A: Yes. Brazil is an excellent destination for solo travellers, particularly on group tours such as Llama Travel’s, where transport, accommodation and excursions are arranged in advance. Group travel also offers a sociable and relaxed way to experience the country.

Q: Is Brazil safe to travel to?
A: Yes. Most visitors travel to Brazil without any problems, particularly when travelling on an organised itinerary. As with any destination, it is important to take sensible precautions, especially in larger cities such as Rio de Janeiro. Avoid displaying valuables such as jewellery, watches or expensive cameras, keep bags close to you, and avoid walking through quiet areas alone after dark. Taxis and ride apps are widely available and are often the best option in the evenings. With common sense and awareness, most travellers have a safe and enjoyable experience in Brazil.

Connectivity and Communication

Q: What are the options for mobile data and SIM cards?
A: Wi-Fi is available in most hotels and many cafés. Local SIM cards can be purchased in Brazil, although many travellers now choose to use an eSIM provider, such as Airolo or Holafly, before departure for easier access to mobile data on arrival.

Getting Around

Q: How do I get around in Brazil?
A: Brazil is a vast country, so travel between destinations often involves a combination of domestic flights and road journeys. Internal flights are the quickest way to travel between destinations such as Rio, Iguazu Falls and the Pantanal. Within cities, sightseeing is often done on foot and by vehicle.

Q: How should I manage my luggage when travelling in Brazil?
A: Travelling with manageable luggage is recommended, especially if your itinerary includes internal flights or nature lodges. A small day bag is useful for excursions, particularly in the Pantanal or during boat trips.

Food and Drink

Q: What’s the food like in Brazil?
A: Brazilian cuisine is hearty, varied and full of regional influences, with Portuguese, African and Indigenous traditions all shaping the country’s food. Rice and beans are staples across much of Brazil and are often served alongside grilled meats, salads and farofa, a toasted cassava flour mixture.

Breakfasts in Brazil are usually generous, with plenty of fresh tropical fruit such as papaya, mango and pineapple, alongside juices, cakes, breads and coffee. One of the country’s best-known snacks is pão de queijo, a warm cheese bread which is particularly popular for breakfast or with coffee. Other traditional snacks include coxinha de galinha, a fried chicken croquette, and pastel de carne ou queijo, a crispy pastry filled with meat or cheese.

On the coast, seafood features heavily, particularly dishes such as moqueca, a rich fish stew cooked with coconut milk, peppers and herbs. In Rio, churrascarias, or Brazilian steakhouses, are especially popular, where waiters bring different cuts of grilled meat directly to your table.

Q: Can I drink tap water in Brazil?
A: We recommend drinking bottled or filtered water while travelling in Brazil.

Q: Can I drink alcohol in Brazil?
A: Yes. Brazil is known for its caipirinhas, local beers and fresh fruit cocktails. Beer is widely available, and sugar-cane-based cachaça is the country’s national spirit.

What to See

Q: What are the highlights of Brazil?
A: Brazil offers an incredible mix of scenery, wildlife and culture. Rio de Janeiro combines beaches, mountains and iconic landmarks, Paraty offers beautifully preserved colonial architecture, and the Pantanal is one of the best wildlife destinations in South America. Many itineraries also include Iguazu Falls, one of the world’s great natural wonders.

Q: Is Brazil good for first-time visitors to South America?
A: Yes. Brazil offers a fantastic introduction to South America thanks to its variety of scenery, wildlife, beaches and culture. Travelling on an organised tour also makes exploring such a large country straightforward and stress-free.

Q: Where should I go in Rio de Janeiro?
A: Rio is one of South America’s most iconic cities, known for its spectacular setting between mountains and the sea. Visit Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf Mountain for panoramic views across the city, relax on Copacabana and Ipanema beaches, and explore the colourful Santa Teresa district. The city is also famous for its lively atmosphere, samba culture and beach lifestyle.

Q: Where should I go in Paraty?
A: Paraty is one of Brazil’s most attractive colonial towns, with cobbled streets, whitewashed buildings and a picturesque harbour lined with boats. The historic centre is pedestrianised, making it a lovely place to wander, and boat trips allow you to explore nearby islands, beaches and hidden coves along the Emerald Coast.

Q: What is the Pantanal like?
A: The Pantanal is the world’s largest tropical wetland and one of South America’s best wildlife destinations. Excursions take place by boat, canoe, vehicle and on foot, with opportunities to spot caiman, capybara, giant otters, monkeys, macaws and hundreds of bird species. The region offers a very different experience from the Amazon, with wildlife generally easier to see due to the open landscapes.

Q: What are Iguazu Falls like?
A: Iguazu Falls are among the largest and most impressive waterfalls in the world, stretching across the border between Brazil and Argentina. Walkways and viewing platforms offer dramatic views of the falls, while the surrounding rainforest is home to tropical birds and wildlife.

Still have questions about travelling to Brazil?

Our team is happy to help. Call us on 020 7263 3000 or explore our Brazil holidays to start planning your trip.

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