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When is the Best Time to Visit Brazil?

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Published on: August 15th, 2017

Last updated: August 22nd, 2024

While some travellers flock to Brazil specifically for Carnival, there are so many other wonderful things to experience. Whether you want to cruise through the Amazon or discover the country's historic cities, Brazil is a thrilling destination. We've outlined the best time for you to visit Brazil depending on your interests.

Carnival
February
Cruise the Amazon
All year
Iguassu Falls
All year
Beach holiday
December - March

Best things to do in Brazil by season

pantanal-alligator-brazil
JUN-OCT

Enjoy the wildlife

If you’re wanting to make the most of Brazil’s wildlife your best bet is to plan your trip to fall between June and October – the dry season. From July to September is the perfect time to head to both the north and south of the Pantanal – a massive expanse of tropical wetlands. This is where you’ll find hundreds of species of birds. Keep a look out for animals like jaguars, caimans and capybaras.

trancoso-horse-on-beach-brazil
DEC-MAR

Hit the beach

If you’re looking to soak up the sun and dig your toes into the warm sand, then head to Brazil in summer – from December until March. Whether you choose to go celeb-spotting at the popular Trancoso with its luxury hotels and chic restaurants, or you prefer the mangroves and deserted beaches of the Peninsula de Marau, make sure you pack plenty of sunscreen and a pile of good books.

Best Brazil experiences for all seasons

Marvel at the Iguassu Falls

These spectacular waterfalls on the Iguazu River are stunning all year round. The largest waterfall system in the world, Iguassu Falls divide the river into the upper and lower Iguazu. Local legend tells of a god who planned to marry the beautiful Naipí, but when she fled in a canoe with her mortal lover Tarobá, the god split the river, creating the raging waterfalls and the fleeing lovers were condemned to an eternal fall.

Iguassu Falls Brazil

Wander through Salvador de Bahia

No matter what time of year you visit, the historic town of Salvador de Bahia should be on your list. The city is known for its beautiful colonial architecture in Portuguese baroque style and its rich culture. Take time to wander through the historic neighbourhood of Pelourinho, which is a UNESCO cultural heritage site.

salvador-brazil-colourful-houses

Explore the historic towns of Minas Gerais

The state of Minas Gerais with its historic cities and towns is also suitable for year-round visits. Make sure you spend some time in Ouro Preto which was founded in 1698 and became the centre of the Portuguese gold rush. The town’s golden-age splendour is still evident in its fine fountains, plazas and churches.

Panoramic View of Ouro Preto

Our team's favourite trips to Brazil

All of our trips are completely personalised. Here are a few examples of what we might suggest.

Where to Stay in Brazil

Some of our recommended hotels

Whatever you want from your trip to Brazil, our team of expert travel designers are here to help.

Ariel view of waves breaking on a forested shoreline