ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
IMPORTANT - As most of our Brazil tours cross the border and enter Argentina at Iguazú Falls, please ensure you also check the requirements for entry to Argentina, as they differ to those for Brazil.
**Please check your own country's international travel advice as well as the airline requirements before travel.**
UK guests please see the UK Government Foreign Office Travel website for latest entry and exit advice; https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/brazil
US guests please see Travel State website; https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Brazil.html
Visas:
U.S., Canadian, and European Union citizens do not require a visa for tourism visits of up to 90 days in Brazil. However, starting April 10, 2025, travelers from the U.S., Canada, and Australia must obtain an e-Visa before departure. Apply online at https://brazil.vfsevisa.com. Processing may take up to 5 business days, so apply in advance.
For the most up-to-date visa information, visit the Brazilian Government’s Visa Portal: https://www.gov.br/mre/en.
**Note: Visa and entry requirements, regulations, and restrictions can change. Ensure you check the current requirements well in advance of travel.
Passports:
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned departure date from Brazil. It’s recommended to have at least one blank page for entry stamps. Ensure you complete the Emergency Contact Information section in your passport.
Travel Insurance:
All travelers must have valid travel insurance covering health, trip cancellation, and emergencies. Ensure you carry a copy of your policy number and 24-hour emergency contact details for your insurer.
Medical Conditions & Personal Medications:
Please inform us in advance of any medical conditions requiring special attention. If you take prescription medication, bring a sufficient supply, along with copies of the prescription and your doctor’s contact details.
• Medications should be in original packaging with a clearly visible label.
• Some prescriptions may require special authorization to bring into Brazil. Check with your local embassy for details.
• If traveling with CPAP machines or other medical devices, notify us at the time of booking so we can arrange necessary accommodations.
Luggage & Packing Tips:
What to Pack & Wear:
• Light, breathable clothing for warm and humid weather.
• A light jacket for cooler evenings or rain.
• Comfortable walking shoes for city tours and nature excursions.
• Swimsuit for beach days, pools, or hotel spas.
• Don’t forget your camera, charger, and extra memory cards!
Luggage Allowances:
• International airlines may have different baggage policies. Check with your airline for size and weight restrictions before departure.
• Domestic flights within Brazil often have lower baggage limits than international flights.
Language:
The official language of Brazil is Portuguese. English is spoken in tourist areas but not widely spoken in rural regions. Learning a few basic Portuguese phrases can be helpful!
Weather:
Brazil’s climate varies by region:
• Rio de Janeiro & São Paulo: Warm year-round, averaging 25–30°C (77–86°F).
• Amazon & Pantanal: Hot and humid with frequent rain.
• South (Florianópolis & Porto Alegre): Cooler winters with temperatures dropping to 10°C (50°F).
Check the local weather forecast before traveling to pack accordingly.
Electricity & Adapters:
• Brazil uses 220V/127V electricity, depending on the region.
• Plug types vary, but Type N is the most common. A universal adapter is recommended.
Mobile & Internet Communication:
• Mobile networks are widely available in major cities but may be limited in remote areas.
• Check roaming rates with your mobile provider before traveling.
• Free Wi-Fi is common in hotels, cafes, and restaurants.
Money & Payments:
Currency:
The official currency is the Brazilian Real (BRL).
• Credit and debit cards (Visa & Mastercard) are widely accepted.
• Carry some cash for small vendors or remote areas.
• Notify your bank before traveling to avoid blocked transactions.
• ATMs are available but may have withdrawal limits or fees.
Gratuities:
After feedback from previous guests, we offer a group tipping package for this tour, more information on this will be shared in the 'Pre-Tour Emails'.
Water & Food Safety:
• Tap water is not always safe to drink. Stick to bottled or filtered water.
• Avoid ice cubes unless you are sure they are made from purified water.
• Street food is popular but choose vendors with high turnover and good hygiene.
Safety & Security:
As visitors, tourists may be more vulnerable to petty crimes like pickpocketing and scams, so we recommend staying aware and taking simple precautions.
Religion & Cultural Etiquette:
Brazil is predominantly Christian (Roman Catholic & Protestant), with influences from indigenous and African traditions.
• Casual dress is common, but modest attire is recommended when visiting churches or religious sites.
Photography & Scenic Highlights:
Brazil offers breathtaking landscapes, from Rio’s Christ the Redeemer to the Amazon Rainforest.
• Always ask for permission before photographing locals or indigenous communities.
• Bring extra batteries & memory cards—you won’t want to miss a moment!
Arrival in Brazil:
• Standard hotel check-in is around 3 PM. Early check-in is subject to availability.
• If arriving early morning, we’ll do our best to arrange early check-in upon request.
If you have any other questions that we have not covered here; then please send us an e-mail to: info@thebigjourneycompany.com
Disclaimer: The above information is provided as a guideline only. The Big Journey Company assumes no liability for any errors or omissions in this document.
Updated Mar 2025