tourist driving in brazil

Driving in Brazil

Safety Information for Travelers

Driving in Brazil is not for everyone. With over 1 million miles of highways, many of which are unpaved, Brazil's size should not be underestimated. Depending on your travel plans, you'll come across a variety of road types, from the grid-locked freeways of Sao Paulo to the wild dirt roads in the Amazon region.

Whether you are planning a cross-country road trip through Brazil, or are just looking to rent a car for a day trip to a far-off beach, there are a few things you should know before you get behind the wheel in Brazil.

Driving Requirements

Foreigners over the age of 18 are allowed to drive in Brazil for up to 180 days if they have a valid license from their home country.

Checklist for Driving in Brazil

Valid driver's license (required)
Passport (required)

Rules of the Road

When driving in Brazil, be aware of the local rules and keep an eye on the road signs, which will all be in Portuguese. Because many Brazilians don't speak English, you should learn some basic car vocabulary for your trip. If possible, practice speaking with someone who is familiar with the language, since many words like carro (car) and rua (street) are not pronounced in the way they appear to be written.

Speed limits: The speed limit in Brazil is typically 30 kilometers per hour (18 miles per hour) in residential areas, 60 kph (31 mph) on main avenues, and between 80 and 110 kph (50 and ,60 mph) on main highways.
Road signs: Road signs in Brazil follow international standards, but keep an eye out for stop signs, which will be written in Portuguese as "PARE."
Speed bumps: Many towns in Brazil use speed bumps, or lombadas in Portuguese. They are usually, but not always, painted with bright stripes. There should be warning signs ahead of the bump, but occasionally there might not be.
Seat belts: It is mandatory for all passengers to wear a seat belt in Brazil.
Alcohol: Brazil has zero-tolerance for driving under the influence. The blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is .02 percent—equivalent to one beer or glass of wine.
Tolls: Many highways in Brazil are financed and maintained by a private company using a toll system. Tolls can range between 5 and 20 Brazilian reals depending on your car.
Gas stations: There are five types of fuel sold at gas stations in Brazil: regular gasoline, premium gasoline, ethanol, diesel, and natural gas, so make sure you are filling up with the right fuel for your car. There are no self-service gas stations in Brazil, so an attendant will assist you.
Cell phones: Without a hands-free device, you can be fined for using a cell phone, even if you are sitting in traffic.
Lane splitting: Motorcycle riders often make their way between lanes when traffic comes to a halt and even when it’s flowing at regular speed, which is known as lane splitting.
In case of emergency: If something happens, dial 198 for the state highway police and 192 if you need an ambulance.

Should You Rent a Car?

It's not impossible to get around Brazil without a car, and many locals take advantage of busses , which can actually be quite comfortable and reliable. There are many affordable tour operators who can take out you out in a four-wheel-drive vehicle to more remote places. In larger cities, subway and bus systems are also an option for getting around. Unless you have a complex itinerary that calls for renting a car, the average visitor in Brazil will find it easy enough to manage without one.

Road Conditions

Brazilian roads range from very well-kept highways to roads with potholes the size of craters and impassable mud pits. Roads with tolls are well-kept because of private ownership, but side roads in more rural areas can be in rough shape and are prone to flooding. Research your route ahead of time to check out road conditions and plan your travel accordingly. In Brazil, paying a small toll for a well-maintained road and a direct route is well worth it.

Car Theft and Armed Robbery

In large cities, driving a car in Brazil involves the risk of theft and robbery. Drivers in large cities may keep their windows rolled up at traffic lights in areas known to be more dangerous, to minimize the risk of having either the car itself or the driver's valuables taken by an armed individual. If you are driving after 8 p.m., you are permitted to drive through a red light (slowly and cautiously) to avoid becoming a sitting duck for a thief. Throughout your travels in Brazil, you should be careful, alert, and use good judgment.

Trucks and Motorcycles

Most Brazilian truckers are good drivers, but many are overworked and might be driving while sleep-deprived. Just in case, be on the lookout for all trucks.

Motorcycles are a huge issue in Brazil's largest cities, particularly in São Paulo, where motorcyclists are infamous for their risky moves that cause many accidents and cost many motorcyclists their lives. They are prone to speed and will pass you on both the left and right sides. Many will beep in a consistent pattern as they move through the lanes to let cars know they're coming. If you notice you're on a road with a lot of motorcyclists, listen for the beeping and keep an eye on all your mirrors.

Traffic Jams

Slow traffic at different times of the day is routine in large Brazilian cities. Holidays, storms, and accidents often cause monster traffic jams in São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro. It can sometimes take two to three hours for what you might have thought was a half-hour ride, so plan ahead and leave yourself plenty of time to arrive at your destination.

Pedestrians and Stray Animals

Most streets in commercial districts are packed with pedestrians, who often dodge cars and sometimes stop in the middle of the street while waiting for a chance to finish crossing over. If you see someone in the street like this, stopping for them could cause an accident since the driver behind you won't be expecting it.

Be aware that although children in Brazil go to school for half the day, most public high schools have classes in three periods of morning, afternoon, and evening. So large groups of children walking to or from class can be present at almost all hours of the day. Many schools are located on busy avenues, and they may or not have police officers on duty as crossing guards.

Unfortunately, there are thousands of stray animals in the streets of Brazil that you should also be aware of. They pose the risk of distraction, and you need to be alert at all times while driving to avoid a collision.

In Brazil, parking is a challenge Brazilian drivers are proud to take on. You'll need to be prepared to parallel park on narrow streets or maneuver in tight parking garages. Otherwise, it may be easier to park farther from your destination or pay for a parking lot with valet services. You should also be aware that many public places, such as shopping malls, will charge for parking.

If you park on the street, someone may come up to you asking if you'd like them to watch your car while you are away. This is a way to prevent your car from being stolen, and you should always agree, just in case. When you return to get your car, you only need to tip this person anywhere between 1 or 2 reals, which is a true bargain for some peace of mind.

Driving in Paris, France

Driving in Finland

Driving in Arizona

Driving in Denmark

Planning a Road Trip: The Complete Guide

Driving in Thailand

Driving in Los Angeles

Driving in the UK

Driving in Cancun

Driving in Paraguay

Driving in Sweden

Driving in Doha

Driving in Argentina

Driving in South Africa

Driving in Newfoundland, Canada

Driving in Peru

Everything you need to know about driving in Brazil as a foreigner

Driving in Brazil is something many travelers consider when planning their first trip. As a local, we’re here to give you the inside scoop on what it’s like to drive in Brazil and the things you need to know before you hop behind the wheel.

I will be honest, driving in Brazil can feel very challenging for people used to the US or European traffic only. But we are not here to scare you – our goal is to show you everything you need to know so you can make your own decisions about what is the best transport option for your trip.

Since we are an international couple, we bring a very unique view – Fe brings the local perspective of being born and raised in Rio de Janeiro, and Edo brings the foreign view. Together, we were able to identify the most important tips and tricks that would be useful for you as a foreigner driving in Brazil. So let’s dive in!

General rules about driving in Brazil

The first thing you must know is that there are some general Brazilian traffic laws that you must follow, no matter which state or city you are visiting. Here are a few important rules you need to know for driving in Brazil:

The minimum driving age in Brazil is 18 years old.
Speed limits in Brazil are usually measured by automatic radars with cameras that will flash you on the road. There can also be policemen with manual checks, but those occur rarely compared to the speed cameras, which are everywhere. (more on speed limits and cameras in the next section)
There are a lot of motorcycles and they drive in between the cars, often in between lanes. Be very careful when switching lanes.
Most cars in Brazil have manual transmission (stick) , even the rental ones. If you can only drive automatic cars, make sure you request it specifically when renting it.
Brazil has a zero tolerance for alcohol when driving. In larger cities, it is very common to have police checks at night specifically for checking the driver’s alcohol levels through the breath exam. These are called “blitz”.
Seat belts are obligatory for everyone in the car.
Gas stations are not self-service, once you stop, a worker will come help you and he/she will operate the pump. The clients are never the ones who operate the pump themselves. You don’t need to pay extra for the worker, but you are free to tip them if you want.
Get used to speed bumps when driving in Brazil. They are very often used on smaller roads, but can sometimes be seen on larger highways as well.

Need to rent a car for your trip? Get a quote here!

Speed limits in Brazil

Brazil has a unified speed limit system that is defined for the whole national territory, but keep in mind that there can be exceptions. The official speed limits in Brazil are split between urban and rural areas.

Urban areas

Fast roads : 80 km/h
Connecting roads : 40-60 km/h
Local roads: 30 km/h

Rural areas

Unpaved roads : 60 km/h
Paved roads : 90-110 km/h

There are a few highways where the speed limit is higher than 110 km/h. This is possible because there is a law that says that if the road is fully controlled and with proper signs, they can establish a speed limit different than those defined above.

You are probably wondering “but how would you know about these exceptions?”

Always pay attention to the speed signs when driving in Brazil!

It can be confusing even for us locals to identify which type of road you are driving on at all times.

Don’t worry, all you have to do is look for the signs .

In Brazil, there will always be speed signs on the side of the road to guide you. As long as you stick to the limit provided, you will be ok when driving in Brazil.

Speed cameras when driving in Brazil

One thing to be aware of is the speed cameras . American travelers who drive in Brazil for the first time often point out that there are a lot of cameras, especially within the cities.

Indeed, the Brazilian traffic system relies heavily on the automated speed system. Be careful and drive within the speed limit to avoid any issues.

This is how the speed cameras in Brazil work :

The cameras are placed on the side of the road
When you pass through, if you are speeding, it takes a picture
The fine will automatically be sent to the address where the vehicle is registered (if you will be renting a car in Brazil , the rental company will receive the fine and forward it to you)
The fine needs to be paid within a certain timeframe and the owner of the vehicle gets a few points on their license (the points can be transferred to the driver if the owner wasn’t the one behind the wheel)

Especially within cities like São Paulo or Rio de Janeiro, there are some cameras that seem to be placed literally to trick you – on the exact point where the speed limit changes, after a tunnel, or right on a curve. Before most radars, there is usually a sign saying “Fiscalização eletrônica” .

Read also : All about renting a car in Brazil

Road conditions in Brazil

Brazil is a big country and it is impossible for me to make a general statement that would apply to all regions. The road conditions vary a lot from one region to another. While highways are usually in good condition, some roads may be more bumpy than others.

In general, most tourists that come to Brazil for the first time are looking to rent a car in the South and Southwestern parts of the country (between Rio, São Paulo, Iguaçu and Florianópolis).

The good news is that these regions are also known as some of the regions with the best road conditions in Brazil. You can still find a lot of local roads with bad pavement and poor driving conditions, but if you stick to the main paths , you should be fine in most cases.

The highway that connects Rio to São Paulo, for example, is one of the most used in the country and it is in quite good condition.

Pro tip: we don’t recommend driving in large cities like Rio or São Paulo. The traffic and parking situation is too chaotic even for us locals. Public transport is much more pleasant and efficient for exploring the city.

Safety tips for driving in Brazil

Here are a few things to have in mind when driving in Brazil:

Be mindful about motorcycles , especially when switching lanes.
Don’t keep your windows rolled down when stopped at red lights and stuck in traffic.
If you are driving at night (after 22h) , you don’t need to stop at red lights if the road is entirely empty (of course, you need to check beforehand)
There are almost no roundabouts in Brazil , we always use crossroads. They are still the main source of accidents, so keep an eye out for them.
Brazilian drivers tend to not use their blinkers much (it is a terrible habit, I know), so you need to be a bit more attentive.
Always have cash on you for the tolls – in most cases, you cannot pay by card.

Driving in Brazil: Figuring out parking

Parking in Brazil is a tricky topic because guards go around quite often and people have their cars towed more often than they would like.

Always make sure you are parking on an authorized spot . In larger cities like Rio, there are signs everywhere with the times when parking is chargeable and times when it is free. In most cases, overnight it is free but during the day, you must pay a fee.

Most public parking places don’t use parking machines – it is usually a person who comes and gives you a parking ticket that you should put on the front mirror.

PS: As I mentioned, in many places, when you park, there will be a guy who comes to charge you for the parking. If they don’t give you a ticket, they are charging it illegally (they are not part of the regulated system I mentioned above). These are called “flanelinhas”. They always try overcharging tourists, so be mindful and avoid them if you can.

Oh, and get ready for parallel parking. I was born used to it but once I moved abroad, I realized that many foreigners are not used to parallel parking much and it is very common in Brazil.

FAQ: Popular questions about driving in Brazil

Can tourists drive in brazil.

Yes, tourists are allowed to drive in Brazil as long as they have a valid driver’s license and passport.

Want more info about renting a car in Brazil? Check our blog !

Can I drive in Brazil with a foreign license?

Yes, according to the latest rules, you just need to have a valid driver’s license and a passport. Your driving license can be issued anywhere.

Do I need an International Driving Permit for driving in Brazil?

No, you do not need an International Driving Permit (IDP) for driving in Brazil. You can drive with your US driving license, Canadian driving license, UK driving license… any of them.

Is it safe for tourists to drive in Brazil?

Yes, it is safe for tourists to drive in Brazil as long as you practice common sense and follow the rules. The most important thing is to make sure you are careful when driving and aware of your surroundings.

Read again our safety tips above for driving in Brazil.

How easy is it to drive in Brazil?

Driving in Brazil can be easy or hard depending on the place and your experience.

Driving in Brazilian cities can be a bit tricky due to traffic, but in other places, it is quite easy. We only recommend it for experienced drivers though, since it can be quite different from what you are used to back in your home country.

Is drunk driving legal in Brazil?

No, drunk driving is not legal in Brazil and the penalty can be severe.

Throughout the country, there is zero tolerance for drunk driving which means that if you are stopped and asked to do the breath test, you should score zero.

What is the penalty for drunk driving in Brazil?

The penalty for drunk driving in Brazil can be severe and vary from State to State. Generally, the penalties include hefty fines and suspension of the driving license .

This is something we strongly advise you to be careful about, as there are constant road checks called “blitz”. If you plan on drinking, it is better to take an Uber, bus, or any other transport option.

Can you turn right on red in Brazil?

In Brazil, you cannot turn right on the red light unless there is a sign strictly allowing you to do so.

What side of the road do they drive in Brazil?

In Brazil, they drive on the right-hand side of the road.

Are cars in Brazil right-hand drive?

No, cars in Brazil are left-hand drive. If you rent a car, keep that in mind and make sure to double-check the gear shift before starting your trip.

What kind of cars do they drive in Brazil?

In Brazil, you can see a variety of cars on the roads. Since it is such a large country with many different climates, you can find cars from small city runabouts to powerful SUVs, and even luxury models like Mercedes Benz or BMWs.

One thing that is worth mentioning is that most cars in Brazil have manual switch, including the ones available at car rental companies. If you cannot drive stick, make sure you pay attention to this information when renting a car in Brazil .

In conclusion, driving in Brazil can be a unique and exciting part of your travel experience. Being mindful of the local rules and customs can ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

If there is anything else that you need to know and we forgot to cover, feel free to reach out!

We wish you incredible adventures in Brazil!

Organizing your trip

To help you plan your trip to Brazil, we have put together our favorite planning resources:

Flights : Get affordable flights to Brazil on Skyscanner.com .
Travel insurance : Make sure you are protected during your trip. We use VisitorsCoverage whenever we are traveling abroad.
Renting a car : We always use Discover Cars to get the best car deals.
Accommodation : Find the best hotels and apartments on Booking.com .
Activities : Get fun ideas of what to do and buy unique activities with Get Your Guide.
SIM Card : Stay connected during your trip with Airalo.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. This means that we get a small commission from any purchase you make, at no additional cost to you!

Fernanda is the Brazilian half of Mauka. Originally from Rio de Janeiro (Brazil), Fernanda is also part Italian. After having lived in several countries such as the Netherlands and the UK, she ended up moving to Slovenia with Edo. Traveling is her biggest passion and she is always looking for new places to explore - be it on another continent or a hidden hike close to home.

Hiking Sugar Loaf Mountain in Rio de Janeiro

Detailed guide for hiking Urca Hill and the Sugar Loaf Mountain in Rio.

Best Airport in Rio de Janeiro to Fly Into

Compare the features and flights of the 2 main airports in Rio.

Renting a Car in Slovenia: Tips by Locals

We went through all the questions people ask about renting a car in Slovenia.

Renting a Car in Ljubljana (Airport or Center)

Local recommendations of the best places to rent a car in Ljubljana.

Where to Stay in Ipanema: Best Hotels

Discover the best hotels to stay in Ipanema from a local’s perspective.

Best Time to Visit Rio de Janeiro – local tips

Discover the best months for exploring Rio for different travel styles and budgets.

Brazil Driving Guide

The rules of the road in Brazil may be somewhat different from those in your home country. Here is a complete guide to Safe Driving In Brazil, including driving with US license, renting a car, getting an international driving permit, alcohol limits, road signs and all to help your visit to Brazil go smooth.

Get an International Driving Permit to bask in Brazil's vibrant culture and spectacular beaches.

Sugarloaf Mountain Panoramic View Rio de Janeiro

Brazil, celebrated for hosting some of South America's grandest festivities, boasting spectacular beaches and breathtaking natural landscapes, could be the perfect destination for your next thrilling adventure. The country's vibrant culture and warm hospitality draw in countless visitors annually.

Yet, concerns about safety in Brazil, often highlighted in news reports, may raise caution among travelers.

Brazilian roads aren’t high quality. The best ones are probably the highways called Rodovia and signed like BR-101. The speed limits are 80 to 110 km/h (120 km/h). The payments happen via tolls, so have cash with you.

Do your research about the safety of areas and regions! There are some places where you shouldn’t stop the car, otherwise, you might get robbed.

Aliz, a travel blogger, shares in her post, BRAZIL TRAVEL TRICKS – WHAT TO KNOW WHEN GOING TO BRAZIL , published on her website, Aliz's Wonderland .

For those new to driving in Brazil, navigating the roads can present unique challenges and noticeable differences from what they may be accustomed to in their home countries. One such notable difference is the prevalence of manual transmission vehicles, which could be a significant adjustment for some drivers.

Go Beyond Brazil's Major Cities

Brazil offers various transportation options, including public transit in its major cities. It might not always be the most convenient option, especially for those looking to venture beyond urban centers.

This marvelous land is ripe for exploration, and driving allows you to pause and appreciate its many wonders as they unfold before you. It also lets you set your own pace, visit places off the beaten path, and explore at your leisure, aligning perfectly with your schedule.

This guide is designed to equip and encourage you to take to the roads of Brazil. Venturing out of the main cities by car can be an incredibly rewarding experience, offering a plethora of adventures and making your holiday even more memorable!

Let's Take a Closer Look at Brazil

Scenic View of Rio de Janeiro with Christ the Redeemer Overlooking the City

Before diving deeper into Brazil's driving culture and etiquette, here are some interesting facts about this South American country:

Geographic Location

Brazil, situated in South America's central-eastern part, borders Argentina, Guyana, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay, and Venezuela. Its extensive Atlantic Ocean coastline spans about 7,500 km.

The country, divided into 26 states and a Federal District, is renowned for being the fifth-largest in the world and the largest in South America and the Southern Hemisphere. Covering an area of approximately 8.5 million square kilometers, Brazil is 15 times larger than the size of France and surpasses the contiguous United States in land area.

Languages Spoken

The dominant language in Brazil is Portuguese, which has evolved significantly since its introduction in the 16th century. Brazilian Portuguese has diverged in pronunciation, grammar, and vocabulary from European Portuguese to the extent that Brazilians might find Spanish-language films from other Latin American countries more understandable than those from Portugal.

Influences from Italian, German, and Japanese immigrants, as well as Spanish-speaking refugees, have enriched Brazilian Portuguese with words like " tchau " (farewell), derived from the Italian " ciao ".

Brazil's diverse geography includes rivers, forests, hills, and plateaus, and its regions are categorized into five broad territorial and statistical divisions. The country's history dates back to at least 9000 BC, with evidence of complex societies of growers, fishers, hunters, and gatherers in the Amazon basin and nomadic tribes in the drier grasslands and highlands.

As a democratic republic, Brazil comprises 26 states plus the Federal District, home to the capital city of Brasília. The current constitution, adopted in 1988, emphasizes civil rights and delineates the roles of the executive, legislative, and judicial branches. It has undergone several amendments since its inception, reflecting Brazil's evolving political landscape.

International Driving Permit FAQs

Whether heading to Brazil for a family vacation or a business trip, understanding the nuances of driving in this vibrant country is crucial. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is your key to exploring Brazil's scenic routes and bustling cities. Here's what you need to know about driving in Brazil with an IDP.

Do I Need an IDP in Brazil?

You can drive a car if you obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) within your first 30 days in Brazil. You should not drive in Brazil if you do not have an IDP unless you have acquired a permanent Brazil Driver's License. Within the first 30 days in Brazil, you must apply for an extension of your IDP at the Motor Vehicles Office. You must apply for an IDP only if you’re planning to visit the country because it is prohibited to drive without an IDP.

Drivers who hold such licenses usually have to obtain an international driving license to drive in Brazil for a period of up to 6 months from the date of entry into the country. Moreover, a holder of such a license is not required to pass the driving test in Brazil.

Why Carry an IDP While Driving in Brazil?

Your IDP is a universally recognized form of identification , translating your driver details into the world's most commonly spoken languages. This translation benefits local officials in Brazil, facilitating clear communication and compliance with local driving laws.

Is Driving In Brazil With a UK License Valid?

If you're visiting Brazil from the UK, you can drive with your UK license, but an IDP is also recommended for added convenience. Ensure your insurance covers driving in Brazil. The same applies to Brazilian license holders visiting the UK.

Who is Eligible for an IDP?

Anyone with a valid driver's license is eligible to apply for an IDP. Remember, an IDP is a translation and not a standalone driving license. Temporary licenses are not valid for IDP applications, so wait until you have your official license card. To apply, visit the International Drivers Association ’s website and select an appropriate IDP package . Required documentation includes:

A valid government-issued driver's license
A passport-sized photo of yourself
A copy of your passport, if necessary

Can I Drive in Brazil Without an IDP?

Driving in Brazil requires an IDP, obtainable at Post Offices in your home country. While in Brazil, carry your passport, IDP, and a passport photo to the nearest Car Registration Department to apply for a driver's license visa to be used alongside your IDP.

For longer stays, a local Brazilian driving license is necessary, as license exchanges are not available. It's crucial to avoid driving without a valid license in Brazil.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure a safe and legal driving experience in the country.

Renting a Car in Brazil

Renting a car in Brazil can be convenient, particularly if you plan to explore beyond your itinerary, like day trips to beaches or historical sites. Here's a guide on how to rent a car in Brazil :

Ease of Renting a Car

Renting a car in Brazil is straightforward, but it can add a considerable cost to your travel budget. To get the best rates and the car you prefer, especially during peak seasons, it's advisable to book in advance. Last-minute rentals often come with higher rates.

Choosing a Car Rental Company

Car rental can save you time and offer flexibility in your travel itinerary. While airports are convenient places to rent a car, offering a wide selection of rental companies, you can find the best car rental in Brazil .

Well-known international companies like Hertz and Budget are available, but Localiza is the leading rental company in Brazil. Most rental cars in Brazil run on petrol or ethanol, so confirming fuel types with your rental agency is best.

Renting from an Airport

Airports usually offer the widest range of rental companies. Since many international airports in Brazil are a few kilometers from city centers, renting from an airport can be economical. Major international rental companies, as well as smaller local ones, are available at most airports. If planning a one-way rental (pick-up in one city and drop-off in another), check with the rental company beforehand.

Required Documentation for Car Rental

You'll need a valid passport and driver's license to rent a car. A valid credit card is also necessary to cover the rental cost. You'll be asked to complete various forms, including rental agreements and insurance. Keep copies of these documents for future reference.

Selecting the Right Vehicle

Choose a vehicle based on your planned activities and terrain. Smaller cars suit city driving, while SUVs might be better for off-road adventures. Early booking is recommended to ensure availability.

Cost of Renting a Car

Rental prices vary but generally start at around R$100 for smaller cars and R$200 for SUVs. These rates typically include insurance. To minimize costs, read rental policies carefully, including fuel policies and pre-existing damage.

Age Requirements

Most rental companies in Brazil rent cars to individuals over 21 years old. While Brazilian residents can obtain a license at 18, some places like São Paulo have a minimum age of 21 for renting cars.

A valid driver's license and credit card are required, but be aware that authorities may scrutinize the validity of an International Driver's License. Keeping your passport handy while driving is advisable.

Car Insurance Cost

Insurance costs vary based on vehicle features, driver details, and where the car is kept. The type of fuel used (gasoline, ethanol, diesel, natural gas) does not significantly impact insurance rates. When choosing the best car insurance in Brazil , factor in the likelihood of theft and where the car is parked.

Car Insurance Policy

In Brazil, car insurance policies may cover theft and other damages. Therefore, reading these policies carefully is essential to understand your liabilities. The daily rate for a compact car with air conditioning, including insurance, is around R$120 (EUR 36, USD 24).

Be mindful of insurance options, cancellation fees, drop-off charges, and extra costs that can increase the overall rental cost. Credit card payments might include 30-day insurance coverage, but it's best to confirm with the rental agency. Additionally, consider third-party insurance plans and additional options like child car seats or GPS during booking.

Road Rules in Brazil

Understanding local driving regulations is crucial to avoid fines and ensure a safe trip when visiting Brazil. This will also help you accomplish the best things to do in Brazil . Here's a guide to the local driving laws:

Driving Side

In Brazil, driving on the right side of the road is mandatory. Abiding by this rule is essential for safe navigation and compliance with Brazilian traffic laws.

Legal Driving Age

The minimum legal age to drive in Brazil is 18. Foreigners need a valid driver's license and an International Driving Permit (IDP). Driving without these documents or under the influence of alcohol is strictly prohibited.

Speed Limits

Speed limits are in km/h. Urban areas typically have limits between 40 and 60 km/h, while highways range from 60 to 110 km/h. Specific areas like schools or hospitals may have lower limits. Speeding incurs fines, payable at Banco Do Brasil or during annual road tax renewal.

Alcohol Limit for Drivers

Brazil enforces strict limits on alcohol consumption for drivers, with a legal limit of 0.04 milligrams of alcohol per liter of blood. This means even a single beer could put you over the limit.

Animal Hazards

Be cautious of animals on rural roads, as they pose a significant hazard to drivers. For example, BR-262 has reported numerous animal fatalities, making it one of Brazil's most dangerous roads.

Parking Precautions

Opt for secure parking, such as in malls or garages. Street parking can be risky due to theft. In some areas, informal car guards may offer to watch your car for a small fee.

In Brazilian cities, parking space can be limited. Be aware of designated parking areas for elderly and disabled individuals. White lines indicate public parking spaces, while yellow lines mean no parking at any time.

Pedestrian Awareness

Stay alert for pedestrians, especially near schools, during afternoons when children are often present. Follow any instructions given by police acting as crossing guards.

Theft Risks

Robbery is a concern in Brazil, particularly for drivers in larger vehicles. To mitigate risks, keep windows up and valuables out of sight, and avoid driving at night. Sometimes, driving through red lights after 8 pm may be safer to avoid becoming a target.

Vehicle Restrictions

To reduce congestion, Brazil implements restrictions based on license plate numbers. For example, cars with a plate ending in 5 may be prohibited from driving on Wednesdays.

Avoiding Distractions

Strict rules against texting and driving are enforced in Brazil. Even hands-free calls are only permitted under certain conditions. If you need to use your phone, safely pull over and turn off the engine.

Using Headlights

Flashing headlights is a common signal in Brazil, often indicating upcoming hazards or an intention to overtake on highways.

Seatbelt and Child Safety Laws

Seatbelts are mandatory for all vehicle occupants. Children under ten years old are not allowed in the front seat. If the back seats are full, the tallest child should sit in front. Children under one year must be in a rear-facing seat, and those aged 4-7 require safety seats. Non-compliance can lead to significant fines.

Navigating Brazilian Roads

Traveling through Brazil's roads has become safer over time, but it's still important to plan your journey well. Modern mapping tools can offer updated travel plans and assist in navigating Brazilian cities.

Road conditions in Brazil vary. While some highways are well-maintained, others may have potholes or require an SUV due to mud and debris. Toll roads often offer the safest and most reliable driving conditions.

Look out for speed bumps, especially in smaller towns, as they can damage your car if driven over too quickly. These bumps may be marked with yellow paint or signs, but sometimes there are no warnings.

Traffic Road Signs

Abiding by road signs is essential for safety. Drivers, especially those operating larger vehicles with blind spots, need to be extra cautious to ensure road safety for all.

Right of Way

At roundabouts, give way to vehicles already in the junction. In the absence of signs, yield to vehicles approaching from the right.

Overtaking Laws

Illegal overtaking in Brazil can lead to heavy fines and license revocation. It's advised to overtake only when necessary and safely, particularly on two-lane roads with marked centerlines.

General Driving Regulations

Other driving rules you must also remember in Brazil are as follows:

Ensure your vehicle has a valid identification number in compliance with Brazilian law. Driving without one is a serious offense, leading to fines and potential vehicle confiscation.
Engaging in driving behavior that endangers lives is strictly forbidden. Leaving the scene of an accident involving injuries or fatalities is a serious crime.
Heavy vehicle drivers bear extra responsibility due to Brazil's role as a transport hub and face severe penalties for unsafe driving.
Car window tinting is allowed up to 30%, with 70% remaining partially transparent.

Driving Etiquette in Brazil

Driving in Brazil can be a pleasant experience if you're familiar with local driving regulations and etiquette. Adopting a patient and defensive driving approach enhances safety and courtesy on the road.

Vehicle Malfunctions

Unexpected car issues can arise, especially in cars lacking regular maintenance. While rental cars from reputable companies undergo routine checks, breakdowns are still possible. In such an event, shift your vehicle to the roadside, activate your hazard lights to alert following traffic, and contact a towing service.

Police Interactions

Frequent police checks occur due to prevalent unlawful activities and drunk driving. If stopped, you're not obliged to undergo a breathalyzer test. However, refusal or evidence of intoxication can lead to arrest, criminal charges, or hefty fines. Additionally, your vehicle may be impounded.

Asking Directions

When traveling in Brazil, knowing some common Portuguese phrases can be immensely helpful, especially for asking for directions or general communication.

Here are some essential phrases that tourists should know:

"Olá" (Hello)
"Bom dia" (Good morning)
"Boa tarde" (Good afternoon)
"Boa noite" (Good evening)
"Por favor" (Please)
"Obrigado" (Thank you - if you're male)
"Obrigada" (Thank you - if you're female)
"Com licença" (Excuse me - to get someone's attention)
"Desculpe" (Sorry)
"Onde fica...?" (Where is...?)
"Como eu chego em...?" (How do I get to...?)
"Existe uma parada de ônibus por aqui?" (Is there a bus stop nearby?)
"Qual é o caminho para...?" (What is the way to...?)
"Sim" (Yes)
"Não" (No)
"Eu não entendo" (I don't understand)
"Você fala inglês?" (Do you speak English?)
"Um cardápio, por favor" (A menu, please)
"Uma mesa para [número] pessoas, por favor" (A table for [number] people, please)
"Eu sou alérgico a..." (I am allergic to...)
"Quanto custa isso?" (How much does this cost?)
"Aceita cartão?" (Do you accept cards?)
"Ajuda!" (Help!)
"Onde fica o hospital mais próximo?" (Where is the nearest hospital?)
"Chame uma ambulância, por favor" (Please call an ambulance)

Police Checkpoints

Increased police checkpoints aim to curb drunk driving, a persistent issue partly due to limited night-time public transport. Expect numerous checkpoints, especially in tourist-heavy and bohemian areas, during holidays.

Merging Techniques

Merging is a frequent cause of accidents. Remain in your lane until it's time to merge, alternating with other vehicles. Allow ample space and time when joining traffic. If someone allows you to merge in heavy traffic, acknowledge their courtesy with a smile or wave.

Proper Pulling Over

Avoid rubbernecking or staring at accident scenes; it's disrespectful and disruptive. Slow down for safety, but keep moving. For funeral processions, pull aside to let the procession pass uninterrupted. Also, yield promptly to emergency vehicles.

At traffic lights, stay alert and avoid phone use to keep traffic flowing.

Handling Accidents

In an accident, never leave the scene. Move to a safe spot to discuss minor incidents with the other party. In case of language barriers or serious accidents, contact the police (dial 190) and, if necessary, an ambulance.

In rear-end collisions or accidents involving a larger vehicle and a motorcycle, Brazilian law often attributes fault to the rear or larger vehicle, obliging them to ensure the well-being of the others involved.

Driving Conditions in Brazil

Driving in Brazil can be challenging due to unpredictable and often hazardous traffic conditions. Extra caution is necessary, particularly at blind corners where oncoming vehicles may creep into your lane. It's advisable to familiarize yourself with the driving environment in urban or moderately sized towns before taking the wheel.

Traffic Overview

Traffic can be dense during peak hours, especially in large cities like São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro. It's wise to slow down and anticipate delays, as travel times can double or triple due to increased vehicles and motorcycles.

Accident Rates

According to the 2013 Brazilian road safety report, around 44,000 fatalities annually are attributed to driving accidents, making it the primary cause of death, injury, and significant financial burden. Speeding is a common factor in these accidents, typically involving personal vehicles.

Popular Vehicles

The Volkswagen Gol ranks as Brazil's most popular car. While regular cars dominate rural areas and main highways, four-wheel drives are prevalent in urban areas, suited for rougher terrain.

Brazilian toll roads are generally well-maintained. The toll fees, varying by state, are considered worthwhile for the upkeep and roadside assistance provided. Many freeways are also in good condition, although road signage and amenities like gas stations or rest stops may be less frequent.

Road Quality

Road quality in Brazil varies widely. Urban areas tend to have well-maintained roads, but those further from city centers may have maintenance issues.

Driving Culture

It's common to see drivers violating rules, like speeding or unsafe overtaking, due to insufficient traffic police presence. Brazilians drive on the right with the steering wheel on the left, and while many cars are manual, automatics are increasingly common.

Due to the subpar public transportation in many cities, driving is often the preferred travel method.

Signal Usage

Headlight flashing by oncoming drivers often indicates a warning about potential hazards ahead, like animals on the road or police checkpoints, though signaling for the latter is illegal.

A raised arm gesture from another driver typically means to slow down for upcoming dangers. If a vehicle behind you in a fast lane flashes its lights or uses a left blinker, it's requesting you to move aside. Drivers may signal with a hand gesture when changing lanes or entering main roads, indicating their intent to merge.

The Top Road Trip Destinations in Brazil

Brazil's tourism sector is flourishing, attracting over three million international visitors annually. Most visitors plan the best time to visit Brazil and flock to Rio de Janeiro and other accessible areas near urban centers, but there's much more to explore.

From Salvador and Bahia's coastal towns to environmental havens in the Amazon and Santa Catarina's popular beaches, here are some of the best places to visit in Brazil :

National Park da Bocaina

Just north of this park is Cuña, renowned for its unique pottery workshops. True artisans run these small-scale ateliers, each with their own distinct style. This scenic route, an alternative to the regular highway north of the park, offers a spectacular drive from São Paulo to Rio de Janeiro. The mountainous region boasts breathtaking views and several waterfalls worth exploring.

Activities in and Around National Park da Bocaina

1. Historical Exploration : Discover the baroque architecture and significant historical sites along the Estrada Real-Royal Road from Diamantina to Paraty.

2. Gastronomic Experience : Savor exquisite cuisines at top-notch restaurants with panoramic views.

3. Camping Adventure : Enjoy rugged camping and explore stunning colonial towns along the Minas Gerais State.

This road, initially connecting Porto Velho and Manaus, suffered from poor construction and is now mostly impassable during the rainy season. The BR319 is ideal for those seeking adventure, passing through vast cattle ranches and the Amazon rainforest.

Activities Along the BR319

1. Nature Appreciation : The Pantanal, a UNESCO site, offers incredible biodiversity, from macaws and toucans to capybaras and caymans.

2. Swimming at Iguazu Falls : Experience one of the world’s most impressive waterfall systems on the Argentine-Brazilian border.

3. Cultural Immersion : The Transamazônica provides insights into indigenous communities and Brazil's conservation challenges.

Salvador, set along the Bay of All Saints, is famous for its stunning beaches like Stella Maris, Flamengo, and Porto De Barra. For drivers, it's essential to comply with Brazil's driving regulations, including having an International Driver's Permit.

Exploring Salvador

1. Cultural and Historical Sightseeing : Salvador's old town, vibrant community, and beautiful beaches make it a top Brazilian destination.

2. Festival Fun : Join Salvador's grand Carnival celebration, featuring music, dance, and elaborate street parties.

3. Natural Escapes : Explore Manaus for its rivers, rainforests, public parks, and beautiful beaches like Ponta Negra.

Get an IDP to Explore Brazil

Brazil is famed for its breathtaking white-sand beaches, remarkable biodiversity, and lively urban landscapes. Acquiring an International Driving Permit is key to embracing the rhythm of adventure across the country's vast and diverse terrains, ensuring an unforgettable experience. Boa viagem!

Get your International Driving Permit in 8 minutes

Instant approval

Valid for 1-3 years

Worldwide express shipping

The Tasty Escape | A Food and Travel Blog

An American’s Guide to Driving in Brazil

Brazil · Destinations Posted by Tom

Kacy and I tend to prefer to live and travel in walkable cities and not have to rely as much on a car to get around. However, our time in Brazil has required more driving to get us around locally, as well as take us to some of the neighboring areas and cities. There was certainly a learning curve to this so I decided to put together this American’s guide to driving in Brazil to share some tips and learnings from my experience.

Now, I assumed that driving in Brazil was just driving and since it’s done on the right side of the road like we do in the U.S. that things would pretty much be the same as long as I got used to kph instead of mph. To my surprise, however, many things have been different and have taken some serious adjusting. Example: you can’t turn right on red, yet blowing through a stop sign is common practice… yep, it is as scary as it sounds.

Learning to Drive Stick in Brazil

an american's guide to driving in brazil - vw fox

For starters, nearly all cars in Brazil are manual and you come across very few automatic vehicles (we also learned they are much, much more expensive throughout the country). The more you travel outside the U.S. the more you see that this is a common theme in other countries. Back in the ol’ US of A, I only have one friend who drives a manual. Here in Brazil, people were almost shocked to learn that I had never driven a stick shift and that I didn’t know how. As a teenager they learn to drive on a manual car and take their driving test using a stick.

So I was presented with my first Brazilian driving challenge, learning to drive stick. Like any other red blooded, 20-something I sought out the best resources I could find for learning such a skill (aka: I googled “how to drive stick” and also searched for youtube videos of the same). Many of these articles and videos are fairly simple and not that long, as the overall concept of driving with a manual transmission is actually quite easy:

Start in neutral
With the clutch pressed down, move the stick into 1st gear
Release the clutch and simultaneously push down on the gas to get moving in 1st gear
Release from the gas pedal and press the clutch to move the stick into 2nd gear
Release the clutch and simultaneously push down on the gas to continue moving in 2nd gear
Repeat steps 4-5 for all other gears
Whenever using the brakes, press down on the clutch first
Park in neutral and pull up the emergency brake

Quite different from driving an automatic but not that complex of an idea, right? Sure, but I soon learned the difficult part is in the feel of the pedals and the fact that I would now be learning how to drive with two feet. This is a strange and bizarre concept for my left foot. The same foot that can barely kick a soccer ball or perform any independent task for that matter. This same foot is now a leading player in working in unison with the right foot to operate a moving vehicle. Life was so much simpler with just gas and break, and shifting between park and drive.

I enlisted the help of my friend, Lucas, who drives a small Fiat and speaks excellent English. He took me to a mostly empty neighborhood (to limit civilian casualties) and showed me the basics before handing over the wheel. My Youtube studies had taught me well and I knew a little bit of what to do to get started and I was able to get the vehicle moving. However, my success was short lived and I experienced the dreaded stall out.

When the car stalls out the engine turns off completely and you are left to be still in your failure. After a few of these it’s easy to get frustrated pretty quickly. With my dignity at stake, I persevered and tried to learn from my stall outs and attempt to make the changes I needed to avoid them. By the end of the lesson I could drive around the block a few times and was only having some issues with reverse, so I felt fairly confident.

Lucas and I had planned to meet for a second lesson but we didn’t get around to it before the time came when I needed to pick up a new (manual) rental car. I read more how-to articles and watched a couple more youtube videos before picking up the car. The car rental place is just a meager 2 blocks from our apartment, so I assumed even the most novice of driver could manage that.

I signed for the car, nodded repeatedly to the employee who described the car’s features to me in Portuguese (I didn’t understand most of what he was saying) then started up my little, red Volkswagen Fox (see above) and entered the mean streets of Brazil. After three consecutive (and highly embarrassing) stall outs on the same steep hill, I finally managed to get the car to the front of our apartment. I stayed in the car and attempted to repeat the route a few times before feeling (very) slightly more confident. My two feet were still on opposite pages and I had very little “feel” for the pedals.

Despite plenty more stall outs, I was miraculously able to drive us around the next day without serious injury or death, so I took that as a small victory. As the time passed I became more and more comfortable with the feel of the pedals and how to navigate some hills and parking lots in Brazil. The hard part now was how to survive the aggressive Brazilian driving habits that seemed to be the norm.

Get Out of My Way

That is probably the best way to describe some of the driving habits of Brazilians, “I’m going to go faster than you, so get out of my way”. This varies from cars tail-gating so close behind me they could steal the groceries I just put in the trunk (don’t take my fat-free yogurt!), to a car flashing their high beams repeatedly telling me to change lanes, to motorcycles giving me a quick beep to tell me they are swerving in between traffic at break-neck speed to get around me.

Naturally, never really being that slow of a driver myself, my first reaction to these types of things happening on the highways were to curse profusely at those who dare pass me in such an aggressive and selfish manner. Over time, however, I have learned that this is merely the driving style here and it is more of an every-man-for-themselves type atmosphere on the road. It is best to just get out of the way of the fastest drivers and learn how to properly pass the slower vehicles yourself, just don’t expect many courtesies or accommodations from your fellow drivers.

With more experience I did learn that tail-gaiting the car in front of you is just one of three common ways of saying, “Hey there, please move so I don’t have to pass you on the right. Thanks.” The other two ways include the flashing of the headlights to the car in front of you and the last (and my preferred) method is to simple turn on your left turn signal. Now you would do this when you are already all the way over in the left lane of the highway and there is clearly no left turn to be made, but it is seen as a more polite way of asking permission to be let on through.

And yeah, that thing I mentioned earlier about stop signs, many of the drivers here see them as suggestions or more of a yield sign then a full on stop sign, so that’s another fun twist.

Other Twists and Turns

The cars in brazil.

Along with pretty much all of the cars being manual, they are also predominantly small (think Mini Coopers and Fiats). The average car is a small four door sedan with a 4-cylinder engine and less than 100hp. The main companies you see here are Volkswagen, Fiat, Renault, Citroen and good ol’ Chevrolet.

For many reasons (high demand, unstable economy/currency, high import taxes), buying a car in Brazil is very expensive. These small, not very powerful cars are a reaction to the high cost of vehicles in the country and are the only models that most of the population can afford. Similar models in the US can cost up to 30-40% more in Brazil.

Vintage VW Beetles

an american's guide to driving in brazil - Brazilian fusca

Sometimes in Brazil, a “road” is a generous term for an unpaved, rocky stretch of dirt that hopefully leads you in the proper direction. Encountering some of these roads on a route that Google Maps suggested can be quite a surprise and also terrifying if you fear getting stuck in your tiny, helpless car (see: our road trip from Sao Paulo to Paraty ). This happens from time to time with varying levels of fear and potential damage to your car, but usually its not that big of an issue.

Getting Gas in Brazil

All the gas stations here are full-service, meaning they have an attendant who pumps the gas for you. They also offer two main fuel types: ethanol and gasolina. Gasolina is, you guessed it, regular gasoline. Ethanol is a cheaper alternative, however it doesn’t it get nearly as good mileage as regular gasoline so there is a trade off there.

I quickly learned to says “Gasolina commum… completa, por favor” in Portuguese to inform the gas station attendant that I wanted the regular type of gasoline (gasolina commum) and to fill up my tank (completa).

Tolls in Brazil

From Bauru it is about a 3-4 hour drive to São Paulo and this route includes several toll booths, I think there are seven if I can remember correctly. The toll prices range from R$3 to upwards of R$11 (that is roughly a range of $1 to $3 US) and they accept cash or a Speed Pass type device that you can purchase ahead of time and link to your credit card account for quicker passage. These tolls do add up quite a bit and does lead many of the Brazilians to choose to take a longer, slower bus ride into São Paulo in order to save on gas and tolls.

Speed Cameras

You will some some police cars on the road from time to time but it is not common practice for them to pull vehicles over on the side of the road for speeding or other offenses. Overall, speeding is regulated by a set of cameras that monitor the roads and highways ready to take pictures of passing license plates when a vehicle is going too fast. They then send the tickets to you via the mail.

So what tends to happen on the roads is that most people drive quite fast and speed most of the time and merely slow down momentarily when a camera is close by. I am not sure what the threshold is for the cameras and how many kph you can go over the limit without getting ticketed, but people tend to slow down to the exact speed needed when passing one and not have any problems.

The radio stations are pretty bad here and mainly rotate a few awful pop songs from the US mixed in with some Brazilian tunes that, even most Brazilians are quick to point out, are OK at best. When you look forward to some Ed Sheeran and Taylor Swift songs as being the best the radio offers, you know you’re in trouble.

Motorcycles

The motorcyclists here are very aggressive and will speed past you in between lanes with reckless abandon. Proceed with caution.

In our five months here I have driven somewhere between 7,000-10,000 km (roughly 4,000-7,00 miles) and I can say that driving in Brazil, although different, really isn’t all that bad or difficult. Despite my early frustrations, learning how to drive with a stick shift is something I’m now very proud of and glad to have acquired the skill. The overall driving experience is actually quite similar once you get used to the little quirks and it is typically just as safe as in the U.S.

Guides to Brazil and Moving Abroad

Driving in brazil | everything important about navigating the brazilian roads.

Winging it on the notorious Brazilian roads might not be towards the top of your bucket list, but my aspiring Brazilian wanders, it should be. Driving in Brazil is the best way to make the most of Brazil’s hidden gems!

Brazil is a whopping country and between each mega-city you have a hundred towns, miles of stunning countryside and a handful of drool worthy eateries.

I’m here to endorse driving in Brazil and to ensure you its going to be funner than caipirinhas at carnival. Brazil has its fair share of dodgy laws and areas , so read through my tips to keep your trip safe, lawful and economical.

Renting a Car and Driving in Brazil

If you are looking to rent a car use decolar.com to scour the best deals. Our prefered company is Movida to rent cars in Brazil . They allow you to lock in a price-per-day and return at a later date, for instance if you hit problems (like staying an extra night away). You can return the car up to 3 hours after the hour you originally rented it. For example, rent at 12 noon on Monday and return it 3PM on Friday and you will end up paying 4 days of rent. Furthermore, with Movida you can leave the car at any of the branches in the same city you booked. Another good car Brazilian rental company is Localiza .

Many short-term tourists can drive in Brazil using there license for up to 180 days, as long as your home country is part of the Vienna Convention on Road Traffic. According to the Brazil Gov website, you are required to drive with your license AND your passport.

Practicalities of Brazilian Roads for Permanent Residents

Longer-term residents with a permanent visa hoping to get their own wheels, need to validate their license (if it’s possible). There are a number of countries that have international agreements with Brazil, which allow you to get a Brazilian license without taking the driving tests again. You must check to see if your country has an agreement with Brazil. If you are lucky you then must translate your documents, book the psychiatric test for a Brazilian license (nothing too difficult) and medical exam. Then you are good to drive in Brazil.

The positive part of getting yourself a Brazilian license is that it serves as a valid identification. You can fly on planes domestically with just your Brazilian driving license. Book your validation appointments via the Detran website of your Brazil city.

In Rio de Janeiro, for validation of the foreign driving license, you must book into the Detran mega-center in Centro. Find everything you need on the Detran website .

Tiradentes, Minas Gerais- Footloose Lemon Juice .jpg

The Quick Guide to Driving in Brazil

For a brief overview of what you need to know for driving in Brazil safely, scan our tips below.

Drive on the right

Speed limit on highway outside city 110km/h, speed limit in city: 30 km/h; avenues: 60 km/h; highways: 80 km/h, 18+ driving age.

However, usually you must be 21 + to rent a car in Brazil.

0% alcohol limit

Not even one beer folks.

Use headlights on highway

If in doubt use headlights is my motto.

Bring cash for tolls

On the swish roads (São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro) the tolls are rather frequent. You can always choose the road less travelled, if you fair well with potholes. Though I believe that with a couple of people in the car the toll roads balance out and in Brazil they can cut hours off your trip. Recently some toll roads began accepting Debit cards. This is the case for the road between Rio and Juiz de Fora, the Niteroi bridge and some routes past Belo Horizonte.

Be cautious however, since many foreign Debit cards are considered Credit Cards. Probably since the money can not be transferred immediately. This is also a good tip for foreigners whose Debit cards aren’t working in the Brazilian machines. Try selecting “credito,” on the machine instead.

Top up gas in the cheaper states

Gas prices vary from state to state. Do a little research beforehand. We always top up in Minas Gerais because it is cheaper than in Rio de Janeiro .

Service stations use a tab card you pay on the way out

In most service stations there will be a barrier where you collect a card. This card will be topped up with whatever you eat, drink or buy inside and you pay on the way out like a tab. Don’t misplace this card.

7 Things to Remember When Driving in Brazil

You can go through a red light at night.

Make sure the road is clear, but it is OK to run a red light, rather than stopping in an isolated area, which can be unsafe. Thieves can approach cars at night so keep your wits about you as you go down deserted roads.

No alcohol tolerance

Since 2008 Brazil has been a zero alcohol kind of country and the police take it extremely seriously. Lei Seca (Dry Law) officers set up random breathalyzer barriers on main roads and exits in the cities. They are ruthless and caught red-handed you’re looking at a R$3000 (US$800) fine, confiscation of the car and possibly losing your license.

Pay the street ‘guard’

Although parking metres are springing up here and there, the norm is the pay the street ‘vigilante’. Sometimes legit, dressed in a city fluorescent jacket; usually any young mug who has claimed the street. Either way, I suggest you pay up the R$2 to avoid a fine from the first or something worse from the second.

If there is no one there for you to pay, you can just lock and leave your car. On return someone may beckon you to pay up. Where there are government officials, with official looking parking vests, they can raise your windscreen wipers. It is a signal you haven’t paid the parking fee yet, and you should find them to pay before driving off.

Frentista fills gas/petrol tank for you

Brazilian petrol stations provide a tank filling service. Just tell the gas station ‘frentista’ how much petrol you want and pay cash or card right from your seat.

When you are driving in Brazil, make sure you know what kind of fuel the car accepts. In many cases the car will accept both ‘etanol’ and ‘gasolina.’ The former is cheaper. Ask your rental company what fuel the car needs.

“Cheio” means a full tank in Portuguese.

Some taxis convert their cars to accept natural gas ( gás natural ). This is why in the back of taxis you may see a yellow gas tank. This unfortunately also reduces the boot/trunk capacity. When you need considerable space for luggage, make sure to flag down a larger taxi or book an Uber XL or Uber Select.

Watch out for motorbikes:

You will enviously stare after the bikers as they weave in and out of the hour traffic jam you’re stuck in. They are reckless. They beep their horns as they whizz 50mph through the traffic so ALWAYS check your side mirrors.

To ride a motorbike in Brazil you will need a specific driving license.

Brazil fine using cameras:

In Brazil there are plenty of speed restrictions in the cities and on the highways. These are monitored by automatic cameras. The speed can vary numerous times on the same road. Pay attention to varying speed limits in Brazil.

Furthermore, other restrictions are bus and taxi lanes. Usually marked by a solid blue line. Don’t drive in these lanes, you will be fined. Note that sometimes, when the traffic is absurd, it is better to catch a yellow/ official taxi rather than an Uber, since they can fast-track through these special lanes.

What to do if your car is towed in Brazil:

We all make mistakes. We can all miss the signs. If your car is towed in Brazil you can look up your license plate on a website. You can look up the license plate on the relevant city’s Detran website. Then click “infrações> liberação de documento/ veículo, and follow the instructions.

Rio de Janeiro’s Detran website.

São Paulo’s Detran website.

Once on the website, you can find the DETRAN storage location and the amounts to pay for towing and storage. If your car is towed over the weekend, you will need to wait until Monday to locate it. Some patience is required. The word for tow is ‘rebocado.’

From there you need to print the fine. A barcode will be present that you then pay at a bank. Sometimes it must be a specific bank. Though it should say on the fine slip. Lean in on help from your hotel, Airbnb host or a doorman at the property you are staying. The Portuguese and bureaucracy can be confusing.

There are some reasons your car may be towed besides being parked in the wrong place. For example don’t park in the wrong direction, too far from the curb, too close the the corner of a road, by a fire hydrant, or in a designated disabled car parking space.

Driving in Brazil- Footloose Lemon Juice

What Awaits you Driving on the Brazilian Roads

For you wildlife buffs, amid our monthly road trips I’ve seen eagles ( Carrapateiro, or Carcará Branco ), a king fisher ( Martín Pescador ), skunks ( Gamba , like in bambi), owls nesting on the ground and the reflections of the eyes of wild cats speeding down the highway at night.

For foodies service stations in Brazil are not just for a quick pee.

Sometimes it will be a tiny hut on the edge of the Mata Atlântica, other times a towering mega-block with numerous options. They all specialise in some sort of regional food and it’s your best shot at getting the real deal not just touristic mush.

My personal favourite finds on the road include: Bananas de ouro purchased by the bunch from a shack right on the edge of the forest they’ve been harvested. These bananas are the size of your finger with a super sweet flavor. The real Pão de Queijo stuffed with sausage, like a cheesy, sausage bap. Bottles of liquid butter, which are traditionally used in cooking in the state of Minas Gerais .

Congratulations, now you are a fully bona fide Brazilian driver. Heck you might even know more than the Brazilians themselves.

Good luck or sucesso in Portuguese !

Looking for a Brazilian playlist for the road?

6 Comments . Leave new

The tiny Banana looks super amazing. And you absolutely convinced us for making a plan to go to Brazil. Added to the bucket list. Thanks, Charlotte.

The bananas are three times tastier too! Thanks for reading Shikha

Hey, what a nice article! I noticed one thing: item number one says “left” but brazilians actually drive on the right. All in all, it was a very well written piece and I’m looking forward to read other ones.

Hi Bia! Thanks so much for reading and leaving a comment. It is true! I got my UK and my Brazil mixed up 🙂

Hi Charlotte, thanks for the tips. We plan a three week trip from 11 March, arriving in Sau Paulo. We hope to do most we can working our way south from Praia Grande towards Foz do Iguacu. Any must sees you can recommend?

Sounds like a fun trip. Right in the middle of the route you have Curitiba the capital of Paraná. There I suggest you stop off in two styles of restaurant. First, the all you can eat churrascaria, because the further South you get the better and cheaper the meat becomes! Try the costela and costelinha.

Second, go to the Italian neighborhood in Curitiba. As Brazil has a vast number of Italian immigrants the food is truly authentic (and I lived in Italy!).

Though it is a detour, the beaches near Ilhabela just North of Praia Grande look like scenes from Jurassic Park. They are stunning and great place to spend a couple of nights.

Brazilian Boy Baby Names | 65 Unique Portuguese Boy Names

Orange and green graphic with word Ultimate List of Portuguese Travel Vocabulary

The Ultimate List of Portuguese Travel Vocabulary

10 Portuguese Idioms Brazilians Use Every Day

The Ultimate List of Portuguese Daily Routine Vocabulary

Your Brazilian Name | Female Names in Portuguese

Your Brazilian Name | Male Names in Portuguese

Alternative Ways to Say “Thing” in Portuguese

The Real Brazilian Slang | 35 Words You Should Know

All the ways to agree and disagree in Portuguese

Mastering Agreement and Disagreement in Portuguese

50+ False Friends in Portuguese and What You Actually Want To Say

Please wait while your request is being verified...

Driving in Brazil

2.1 General
2.2 Road markings
2.3 Pedestrian crossings
2.4 Speed limits
2.5 Speed bumps
2.6 Traffic lights
2.7 Safety rules
2.8 Children
3.1 Driver-to-driver communication
3.2 Motorcycles
3.3 Bicycles
3.4.1 Parking lots
3.4.2 Flanelinhas
3.5 Fuel and gas stations
4.1 Driving at night
4.2 Accidents
4.3 Drunk driving

Driving is sometimes the best option to get around Brazil , due to the poor quality of most cities' public transportation. Any foreigner is allowed to drive for up to 180 days with their country's driving license, unless it expires earlier. After the 180-day period, you must apply for some tests in order to obtain a Brazilian license.

Understand [ edit ]

Brazilian roads can vary drastically from city to city in terms of quality. Due to the lack of sufficient highway/traffic police staff, it's easy to witness drivers doing otherwise forbidden actions such as driving on the shoulder, going above the speed limit, overtaking in dangerous situations, etc., but this does not apply to most drivers. Brazilians drive on the right side of the road, with the steering wheel on the left side. Most cars are manual, but the automatic ones are getting more and more common.

Roads [ edit ]

Roads that connect one state to another are federal highways known as BR-000, in which "000" should be replaced by another three-digit number. If this number starts with 0, then the highway starts at Brasília and runs towards the extremes of the country; highways starting with 1 run north-south, whereas the ones starting with 2 cross the country from east to west; highways starting with 3 run northwest-southeast or northeast-southwest. There are also highways starting with 4, which run in any direction, and some that start with 6 and are always short.

State highways are inside a single state, and instead of "BR" there'll be the two-letter code of the state (e.g. SP-160 stands for São Paulo State Highway 160). Both federal and state highways can be either motorways or divided or undivided highways with at grade crossings. In addition there are of course minor roads that usually aren't paved — indeed out of the country's 1,750,000 km (1,090,000 mi) of roads about 5.5% is paved.

Roads can be government-financed only, or they may have some tolls. The price may vary from R$1,50 to R$20,00 depending on the road, the number of booths spread along the highway and the type of vehicle you are driving. Prices are usually displayed at the booths and in signs placed a few kilometers before each of them.

Many highways have speed guns to prevent motorists from going too fast, but their presence and the speed limits must be informed according to the law. However, their exact location may remain unknown for motorists, so it's always best to respect the signs.

Highways may become congested during the beginning and the end of holidays, or during rush hour, if they run near major cities. If the traffic stops inside a tunnel and there's no sign that you are going to move too soon, drivers are advised to turn the engine off. There are usually fewer cars late at night, but due to the low visibility, it also becomes more dangerous, especially for inexperienced drivers. Motorists should also be careful with truck drivers, since many of them sleep very few hours a day and may fall asleep at the wheel.

Many roads are in good condition, especially in the east and south of the country and along the coast. In other areas and outside the metropolitan regions there are also gravel and dirt roads for which an off-road vehicle can be strongly recommended. This especially applies to the Amazon area where many roads are difficult or not at all passable during the rainy season from November to March. You should drive with a good map and well informed about distances, road conditions and the estimated travel time.

Signs and regulations [ edit ]

General [ edit ].

Stop signs are the red octagonal signs found in most of the world, with the text "PARE" meaning stop in Portuguese . These signs require a vehicle to stop at an intersection and not proceed until the way is clear. Stopping is mandatory, no matter what time of day or the traffic conditions. Sometimes, the PARE sign may be written on the ground, in white letters. The "give way" sign is displayed in an equilateral, red-edged triangle pointed downwards. They are normally displayed at accesses to highways or smaller roads, and mean you should only merge onto the larger road if the way is clear.

Road markings [ edit ]

Roads can be marked by yellow or white lines. Yellow lined separate each side of the road. In highways, if they are continuous, overtaking is prohibited (though few people respect that). If they are broken, it's OK to overtake. White lines separate lanes. Some may be painted at intersections, marking the point beyond which no vehicle should stop at the red lights.

Some cities have bus lanes. In general, these lanes are forbidden for cars unless the car is a taxi, or during specific times and days. If the bus lane is on the far right lane, vehicles may only use them when entering or exiting the street. Bus lanes marked with blue lines are exclusive to public transport, meaning the driver can receive a ticket for using them unless they're entering or exiting the street. Some bus lanes are marked with regular white lines, and the word "Ônibus" (Portuguese for bus) written on the ground, also in white paint. These lanes are preferential rather than exclusive, and any driver can use them, although it is common courtesy to avoid them in heavy traffic situations.

Pedestrian crossings [ edit ]

Zebra crossings ( faixas de pedestres ) are always painted as white, parallel lines. Some may be even highlighted in other colors such as purple. When there is a zebra crossing with no traffic light, drivers are supposed to stop and wait until the road is totally clear of pedestrians. However, obedience to this law is poor, particularly in major cities. In São Paulo , police enforcement has been increased, and the number of people hit by cars decreased, but the streets may still be dangerous for pedestrians if they do not pay attention. Also, some green lights may be too short for elderly or disabled people to completely cross the road.

Speed limits [ edit ]

Unless otherwise specified, speed limits in Brazil are normally as follow:

Residential/local streets: 30 km/h;
Avenues: 60 km/h;
Highways (urban areas): 80 km/h for cars and motorcycles, 60 km/h for buses and trucks;
Highways (rural areas): 110 km/h for cars and motorcycles, 80 km/h for buses and trucks.

This may vary, but the speed limit will always be specified by signs (see the image to the right).

In places without speed guns, few people will respect the limits, so it is always best to stay in the slower lanes or let people overtake you if you don't want to disrespect the law.

Speed bumps [ edit ]

Many Brazilian streets, avenues and sometimes even highways have speed bumps ( lombadas or quebra-molas ). They should all be well indicated with signs and yellow diagonal strips painted on them, but in less developed areas they may be hidden. In the states of Maranhão and Pará , dips are more common, and reportedly make worse damage on the shocks.

Traffic lights [ edit ]

Traffic lights in Brazil are known as semáforos , faróis or sinais , and standardized with red on top, yellow in the middle, and green at the bottom. Some may be horizontal, with red on the left, yellow in the middle and green on the right.

The lights work as follows:

Red : stop and stay stopped until the light goes out. You cannot turn right on the red signal, even if this turn isn't against traffic, unless a direita livre sign is placed next to the traffic light.
Red arrow : stop for the direction of the arrow.
Yellow : stop unless you cannot safely do so, because the lights are about to turn red.
Flashing yellow : It means the lights are not working. Unless there is a traffic controller operating at the problematic intersection, the "every driver for him or herself" rule applies, which means you'll have to somehow negotiate your way with every motorist around you. Some traffic lights, mainly those with the exclusive purpose of allowing pedestrian crossing are generally deactivated between 24:00 and 05:00 and will display the flashing yellow light.
Green : you may proceed unless the way ahead of you is not clear and you're not sure if it'll be until the lights turn red again. If you block the intersection, you may cause a traffic jam and be issued a fine.
Green arrow : you may proceed in the direction of the arrow, provided the conditions described above.
Red and green person : used at pedestrian crossings beside the lights. Instead of a yellow light, the red light will flash when the lights are about to turn green for cars.

Safety rules [ edit ]

You should wear your seat belt at all times when you are driving. Also, the number of functioning seat belts determines the number of passengers a vehicle can carry. It is mandatory to have your headlights on at all times when on a highway. Also, keep an eye on your tires and the fire extinguisher's shelf life. If you have an emergency, stop with the emergency lights on and place the reflective triangle some 30 m away from your car, though a good rule is to use 1 meter of distance for every km/h allowed by the speed limit (80km/h = 80 meters from the stricken vehicle). Some drivers even put large branches on the shoulder to increase visibility. Do make sure to remove those after the situation is resolved if you choose to leave branches.

Cellphones are strictly forbidden without a hands-free device. A driver can be fined for as much as holding a cellphone, even if the car is not moving.

It is forbidden to drive shirtless, while wearing flip-flops or high-heels, or with your elbow (or your arm) resting out the window.

Children [ edit ]

According to Brazilian law:

Children under the age of 10 must always ride in the back seat. If you're carrying more children than the back seat allows for, the tallest one is allowed to ride in the front seat. This does not apply for children under the age of 1;
Children under the age of 1 must ride in rear-facing seats;
Children between the ages of 1 and 4 must ride in front-facing seats;
Children between the ages of 4 and 7 must use booster seats.

Drive [ edit ]

Driver-to-driver communication [ edit ].

Brazilian drivers will constantly use the blinker, the horn, the flashing lights and their hands to communicate with other motorists.

If you are exiting a parking lot, garage, gas station or something like that and trying to enter a street but there are too many cars, one of them may stop for you to come in. They will often make their intentions clear by flashing their lights, sounding their horns or making a "come in" gesture with their hands. Some will just stop and wait for you to enter. If you want to say "thank you", you may happily sound your horn "beep-beep", or make a "thumbs-up" sign with your hand. If you are on a two-way street and want to take a left, the oncoming vehicles may use the same signals described above to give you passage.
If the oncoming cars start flashing their lights on you, they may be warning you about possible hazards ahead, for instance in rural areas it's common that domestic animals are left at the roadside, and they sometimes wander into the traffic. Some also do this to alert about police checkpoints, called blitz (plural: blitzes ), although this practice is illegal.
If oncoming drivers signal you by raising their arms up and down outside the window, it means you should reduce your speed as there are possible hazards ahead.
When driving in the fastest lane of a highway and the car behind you flashes its lights, or turns the left blinker on, the driver is asking you to get out of their way.
Motorists also use the flashing lights and the horn to complain if you cut off in front of them.
When switching lanes or entering major avenues and streets, some drivers may put their hands out of the car and make a "slow down" sign. This means they are really willing to get in your way, and you should just let them in.
On highways, if the car in front of you brakes and turns the emergency lights on, stop immediately and turn your lights on as well. It means there is a sudden traffic jam or hazard ahead.

Motorcycles [ edit ]

Motorcycles are a particular problem of Brazil, especially in major cities. Many bikers die every day due to accidents. They ride between cars all the time, so be extremely careful when switching lanes. If you hit one of them, several others may gather around you and threaten you; try to avoid getting involved in an accident with them. Be careful also when taking a right or a left, for they may try to overtake you even if you turn the blinker on. If the traffic comes to a stop, make sure to leave enough space between you and the car next to you for bikers to go by, as some may be aggressive and damage your car if they can't get through.

Motorcycles are also the vehicle of choice for robbers, so be careful if you are approached by one of them at night, especially if there are two individuals on it.

Bicycles [ edit ]

The number of Brazilians that opt for bicycles is increasing, and some major cities, such as São Paulo , have been creating bike lanes. In places without bike lanes, bikers must ride on the shoulder ( acostamento ). If there are parked cars, they will go between them and the traffic. Try to keep a safe distance from them (say, 1.5 m), and be sure they are at a safe distance when exiting the road. Many bikers don't wear any protection such as helmets, so any accident may cause them severe injuries. In highways with shoulders, bikers must cycle on that part of the road.

Parking [ edit ]

Most streets and avenues are available for parking, except otherwise noted by signs such as the ones to the right.

Parking lots [ edit ]

In major cities, it is always easier and safer to leave your car in a paid parking lot. These parking lots must inform their prices at their entrances. All of them must also have insurance for collisions, fires and robbery. However, this only applies when the entire car is robbed; they won't take any responsibility for valuables left inside the vehicle, unless they explicitly inform you of that. As such, it is always best to take your valuables with you. In some of the parking lots, you can park your car and take the keys. In others, you may leave the car for someone to park it properly.

Flanelinhas [ edit ]

In most major cities, some streets may have "flanelinhas", which are irregular, usually male and adult workers that look after parked cars and help people find places to leave their vehicles. Although the activity is illegal, enforcement is poor for this particular crime, and sometimes the cops allow the workers free rein.

They will usually charge you at the moment you leave your car. Never refuse to give them some money. They may punish non-payers by popping their tires or damaging their cars when there's no one watching. In worse cases, they may even threaten you, verbally or physically. If you just don't feel like paying the guy, find a clear street or a private parking lot. Also, don't leave your keys with them if they ask you so. Some may be honest, but since you're never sure about their real intentions, you may have your car stolen right in front of your eyes.

Fuel and gas stations [ edit ]

There are many gas stations ( postos de gasolina or simply postos ) all over Brazil and along the major highways. Five types of fuel are available and can usually be identified by the color of the nozzle:

Available at virtually all gas stations:

Regular gasoline ( gasolina comum ); red nozzle.
Premium gasoline ( gasolina aditivada ). Some gas stations carry more than one variety; blue nozzle.
Ethanol ( etanol or álcool ); green nozzle.
Diesel. Only for larger vehicles such as SUVs, trucks and buses; yellow nozzle.

Natural gas ( gás natural ) is available at many gas stations, but sometimes hard to find. It requires previous adaptation of the vehicle, and is mostly used by driving schools and taxi drivers.

Fuel is relatively expensive, with the gasoline price ranging from R$ 4,00 to R$ 4,50 per liter (Dec 2019), depending on the region, brand and the location of the station. Most gas stations also sell fire extinguishers, gasoline additives and motor oil. Some also have convenience stores and public toilets.

Most cars in Brazil are equipped with flex fuel engines, meaning they can function with any mixture from 100% ethanol to 100% gasoline. Ethanol is cheaper than gasoline and results in a slightly more powerful response, but using ethanol increases consumption. As a general rule-of-thumb, ethanol should be used if its cost is not higher than 70% the cost of gasoline (i.e. if 1 liter of gasoline was R$ 1, you should use ethanol if its cost were R$ 0,70 per liter or less). Most gas stations display this information along with the prices or on each individual pump. When driving for long distances, however, gasoline is always the best option since its reduced consumption allows for longer range and fewer fueling stops. Using ethanol also makes it more difficult for the car to start, especially when the engine is cold and under colder temperatures. For this reason, flex fuel cars have a separate reservoir at the front of the vehicle, called the "cold start reservoir" ( reservatório de partida a frio ) which should be filled with (preferably) premium gasoline. When the engine detects a high quantity of ethanol in the fuel mix, it uses the gasoline from this reservoir to start the car. It is also a good idea to make sure the engine runs for at least half an hour after switching from gasoline to ethanol or ethanol to gasoline, to make sure the engine's lambda sensor has enough time to detect the new mix and make the necessary adjustments.

All gas stations are serviced; self-service pumps are illegal in Brazil. The employees (called frentistas ) will often offer to check the oil and water levels and, in the case of highway gas stations, to clean your windshield at no extra charge, although it is not impolite to tip them for those services.

Tire inflation machines are available at virtually all gas stations and are usually self-service. Although free at many gas stations, some charge for using them (generally R$ 1). PSI is the standard unit for tire pressure. Gas station attendants will gladly inflate your tires for you if you ask them. Again, it is not impolite to tip them for this service.

Unless absolutely necessary, never use gas stations that don't belong to one of the major brands (Petrobrás, Shell, Ipiranga and Ale), especially if they offer below average prices. Gas stations like that often scam customers by selling diluted fuel which can severely damage the vehicle.

Most gas stations will accept credit cards as payment, although they may charge different prices for that payment method. Virtually all gas stations accept debit cards, charging the same price as for cash payments.

Running out of fuel is considered lack of maintenance, just as illegal as driving with busted head/tail lights or bald tires. Keep the vehicle fueled to avoid being fined.

Gas stations are a traditional place to stop and ask for directions; frentistas are used to it. Bear in mind, however, that it is highly unlikely that they'll speak any language other than their native Portuguese.

Stay safe [ edit ]

Driving at night [ edit ]

As mentioned before, driving at night may be dangerous in less developed areas due to the lack of visibility and street lights. It is always best to avoid stopping at the red lights due to the risk of being robbed. However, try not to do this before checking if there are no other cars crossing the intersection. If other cars around you stop, you should stop as well, unless you see someone suspicious approaching your car ( never accelerate if the person is already too close, if it's a criminal, they may shoot you). If the light ahead of you is red, slow down and approach is slowly, reducing the time you'll spend in a full stop. Avoid stopping at a red light with the windows open and always check your rearview mirrors for suspicious individuals.

Highways at night may have street racing or lone drivers that enjoy speeding: drive carefully and try to keep your distance from them.

If someone hits you at night, it may be a criminal forcing you to stop. Try leading them to a place with more people (say, a police station, a hospital, or a 24-hour gas station). Also, if your windscreen gets hit by a stone or slime-jammed when you go under a pedestrian separation structure, it is surely a criminal using another common way of forcing people to stop. If you can still see the road ahead of you, try stopping in a police station or any other place with people to ask for some help. If you stop immediately, you are guaranteed to be robbed or kidnapped.

Accidents [ edit ]

If you are involved in an accident, never leave the scene. If it is a minor accident, you and the other driver may stop somewhere else to discuss in order not to cause a traffic jam. It's possible but not likely that the other drive will speak English, so it's always best to call the police (dial 190 ) to resolve the situation. If there are victims, you must call an ambulance. According to Brazilian law, if you rear-end someone, the fault is always yours, the only exception being when the other car is leaving a parking garage. Also according to the law, in the case of an accident, the driver with the larger vehicle is responsible for making sure the driver and passengers of the smaller vehicle are safe and tended to by a trained first responder (i.e. if you hit a motorcycle with your car, you're responsible for making sure they're not hurt and, in case they are, you're responsible for calling an ambulance).

Drunk driving [ edit ]

Brazilian law is very strict. You are only allowed to contain 200 mg of alcohol for every liter of your blood, which means that even a can of beer may leave you unable to drive legally. The police efforts to reduce the number of people that drive under influence have improved, but the number of drunk drivers is still high, also due to the scarcity of nightly public transportation. Police presence is relatively high in bohemian neighborhoods and in cities that receive a great number of tourists during holidays. If you are stopped by the police, they cannot force you to blow into the breathalyzer, but if you are clearly drunk, they may arrest you and you may face criminal charges. Refusing to blow into the breathalyzer means you'll receive a steep fine for refusing to comply with a law-enforcement agent, and the car will be impounded all the same.

Traveling inside Brazil: a guide to transportation in the country

If you’re one of those travelers who like to visit as many different places and locations as possible in your destination, it’s important to know the best ways to get around to get to your points of interest safely . Not only that but choosing the ideal way of moving around could also save you a lot of money and time .

If you’re planning on visiting different spots in Brazil, the best and most popular ways of getting around the country are by plane or travel bus. But depending on the location and convenience, renting a car or even using apps like Bla Bla Car could really come in handy.

In this post, we’re going to explore the main ways of transportation around Brazil, which of them are fit for which type of travel, and the advantages and disadvantages of each one of them.

Important Topics to Consider While Choosing Your Way of Transportation in Brazil

If you’re planning on coming to Brazil, getting to know all the places you’ve only seen pictures on the internet sound like the perfect idea, especially since it’s easy to get all hyped up about getting to a destination you’ve never been to before.

But in order to tour around different places under the best circumstance, it’s necessary to take the time to make a clear schedule on your points of interest and think about how you’ll be getting from one point to another .

Choosing the best way to move around in Brazil depends on a series of factors, as each way of transportation has its pros and cons. The ideal thing is getting to know the features in each of them before you make your choice, which will provide you with a much better experience.

Here are some topics you should consider before choosing your way of transportation in Brazil:

Average Travel Time

One of the main advantages of traveling by plane is getting to your point of interest much faster than with any other transportation. It allows for a distant location to be accessed with a lot more ease, differently from a car trip, that depending on the distance, could take days .

For example, Brasília and Porto Alegre are a little over 1k miles apart, demanding approximately 26 hours of non-stop driving (not considering resting stops) to get to one another. The same trip by plane would only take a little over 2 hours, sparing you from the fatigue of driving and giving you more time to enjoy yourself once you arrive.

So, if the distance is overbearing and you have the financial means available to afford a plane ticket, don’t hesitate to treat yourself.

Knowing Your Destinations

A critical element to you help you decide whether it’s best to take a plane, a car, or a bus is knowing your destination at least a little bit. Some places in Brazil don’t have international airports, or any near airport whatsoever, which would automatically narrow down your options .

On the downside, it’s not easy driving around in a city you don’t know very well, especially in big cities with heavy traffic. So, if you’re not any good with directions, taking a travel bus or charter an Uber (or a yellow cab) to take you to your destination would be much more preferable .

There are a few destinations in Brazil that can neither be accessed by plane nor by travel buses, making you depend solely on renting a car or hiring the services of a driver.

Gather as much information as you can about your destination, as it will make some decisions a whole lot easier. For example, while you may be able to get to a certain location by bus, moving around without a car could become a bother , so maybe renting a vehicle in the first place could be the best choice.

High and Low Seasons

The time of the year you’re planning on traveling can greatly influence your decision to make the trip by land or sky. During the low season periods, you’ll be able to find much affordable and reasonable plane ticket prices, which could almost match the costs of travel bus passes or renting a car .

Those last two options are little influenced by the low season in regards to your finances, but since the high season of most places in Brazil is during the Summer (December to February – coinciding with year-end school vacations), it makes the traffic much more intense, as well as there’s a considerable increase in road car accidents.

The Distance Between Locations

The distance between the places you plan on going is also something to be considered before hitting the hammer on how you’ll be moving around. Although obviously faster, sometimes getting on a plane may not be the most practical option depending on your schedule .

You have to check-in, dispatch your luggage, go through airport security, and that’s just while in the process of boarding the plane. Not to mention the time you will waste if the flight makes stopovers, which will definitely make you waste a lot of time.

So, if you’re making a short trip, it’s best to travel by bus or car , avoiding all these bureaucracies and bothers. Giving you a more practical example, if you consider the time all the pre-flight procedures take, going from Goiania to Brasília by car could take just as much time as if you’d make that trip by plane.

Number of People Traveling With You

If one person’s plane ticket can already be too pricey, imagine that same value multiplied by all the people who will be joining you on your trip. Although the price is justifiable, traveling by plane with a large number of people could represent a huge expense on your budget.

If you consider the same trip by car, everyone in your party could share the car rental and gas expenses, which could make your trip much more inexpensive and a lot more fun . I mean, who doesn’t love a good ol’ road trip.

So, if you’re on a budget (which will bring us to our next topic) as has the possibility of sharing the car-related expenses with your friends/family, don’t hesitate to do so.

Travel Budget

If you’re looking to make your trip schedule more inexpensive, it’s time to put the calculator to work and consider all possible costs in order to make the best decision on your way of transportation.

If we first go over the expenses involved in traveling by plane, we’re talking about boarding fees, luggage rates, and the costs of requesting an Uber or a yellow cab to take you to and from the airport, which depending on where’s located, could represent a relatively large sum of money.

On the other hand, the expenses involved on a car trip go well beyond the gas money. You have to worry about the daily rental fees, toll fees, be prepared for any kind of unexpected events (flat tire, changing oil, etc.), and of course, consider if the car is strong enough to handle the destination you’re going to.

Which Way of Transportation Is The Best in Brazil?

As you may have noticed, choosing between taking a ´plane, a car, or a bus while you’re traveling inside Brazil is entirely up to you. It’s important to consider all the aforementioned topics, drawing an accurate comparison of each of their pros and cons, and making your decision based on what fits your trip best.

To further help you in making that decision, we’re going over all the advantages and disadvantages of each main way of transport in Brazil:

Traveling Around Brazil By Travel Bus

Taking a travel bus to get to a far location is probably the most popular transportation method in Brazil, given the high prices of domestic flights in the country. While that can indeed be a drawback, it can work out for the best in some situations.

Pros of Traveling By Bus In Brazil

Bus terminals are much more accessible.

As we briefly mentioned earlier, most Brazilian airports are somewhat distant from the city’s downtown, which could be a real bother. But on the flipside, Travel Bus terminals are way easier to get to, given their locations being more central .

Depending on your destination, you may even be able to find an integration system between the travel bus and the location’s public transportation, facilitating your transfer . Some bus terminals even count on mini-buses and vans, ideal if you’re traveling with a group of people.

Regarding the bus terminal infrastructure, products and general items are sold at much less expensive rates than at airports. However, the prices are still largely criticized and labeled as abusive by the general Brazilian population.

Less Expensive Travel Tickets

Fishing for plane tickets at a good price is often an arduous process, and if you don’t plan ahead, there’s a good chance you won’t be able to purchase them for the date you want.

Taking a travel bus to move around in Brazil could be way more inexpensive since travel bus tickets have little price variations and don’t suffer from the same annual readjustments as plane tickets do .

The differences between the plane ticket fares are often related to the type of seat you want. Most Brazilian Bus companies have the following options:

Conventional The conventional bus the most simple in the category, having the cheapest tickets. The seats are cushioned, and semi-reclining in general guidelines, and the bus may or may not have an air-conditioner. This type of bus is ideal for short trips or if you really want to save up on transportation.
Executive The main difference between the Executive and Conventional bus categories is regarding their comfort levels. Buying an Executive seat could give you a little more space to travel (as the bus seats are a little more separate in comparison to the Conventional), and the seats recline more than the other. Executive buses are very convenient if you’re facing a 5+ hour trip, as the inclusion of minifridge and television/radio makes for a much more comfortable trip.
Semi Bed Even more comfortable than the Executive Bus, the Semi Bedmodality has more spacious seats that can be reclined almost all the way. The companies also provide clients with blankets and pillows, which can come in very handy if you’re making a long trip and wants to take a quick rest.
Luxury Obviously the most comfortable (and expensive) modality, this is like the first-class option for travel buses. Seats will recline 180º, and given its size and comfort; it’s almost like laying on the bed. It also has the same features as the Semi-Leito modality with a few upgrades like DVDs, snacks, and individual TV/Radio sets. These conveniences obviously don’t come in cheap, but it’s worth it if you’re spending a lot of time on the road.

Easier Ticket Purchase and Boarding

Most (if not all) bus line companies in Brazil enable you to purchase your travel tickers online in order to guarantee your spot on the travel bus. You’ll still need to print them or retrieve your physical ticket once you arrive at the bus station, but you’ll be able to do it with much more ease, as there are no bureaucracies such as luggage dispatch or check-in.

Cons of Traveling Around Brazil by Bus

The time you may spend on the road is definitely the major disadvantage of traveling by bus . If the trip is considerably long, it can take even more time, as bus companies predict pitstops in this situation. If there’s no way around it, don’t forget to bring your charger, or a book to pass the time while you’re stuck on the road .

Traveling Around Brazil By Plane

Plane tickets in Brazil are generally pricey, and if you don’t plan ahead and buy your airfare in advance, you’ll either end up paying a fortune or end up having your travel plans ruined. Here’s a brief list of the pros and cons while traveling around Brazil by Plane:

Pros of Traveling Around Brazil By Plane

Even having to show up at the airport 1 hour in advance before boarding, traveling by plane is still the fastest way to travel. Usually, I think that any distance under 300 miles is bearable to withstand on a bus, but if you don’t have that much time to spare, getting on a plane is always the best choice.

More Variety in Destinations

Let’s face it, traveling by plane allows you to visit a number of places that wouldn’t be possible by land , especially if we’re maybe talking about traveling to other countries in South America. While buses can only get you so far, boarding a plane can get you almost anywhere, or at least, to the majority of tourist cities and places across the Brazilian territory.

Airport Structure

Even though located mostly afar from the urban centers, most Brazilan airports have a pretty neat infrastructure, with lots of choices on restaurants, leisure, and fresh facilities, like restrooms and nurseries.

These are certainly superior to those found in bus stations across the country, especially since the daily number of people that visit the latter is much higher than in airports. Oh, as we said before, prices are considerably higher too!

Cons of Traveling Around Brazil By Plane

High ticket prices.

Obviously, the biggest con of traveling by plane is that the airfare is one of the biggest expenses of the trip , alongside accommodations. Even local flights in Brazil are expensive, which is why local citizens do their best to plan their trips ahead, as you can get way better prices by buying your tickets earlier.

Luggage Limitations

While traveling by bus or car allows you to bring a much larger amount of luggage, boarding a plane could make you want to pack lighter.

The dispatching rules in Brazil have changed in the last few years, limiting the passenger to board only with a handbag, which must weigh 22lbs (10kg) or less . If it exceeds the weight limit, it will be dispatched and charged separately.

Traveling Around Brazil By Car

Although flying is indeed necessary to come to Brazil, a lot of people aren’t keen on the idea of boarding in and out of planes every time they visit a new location. Aside from that, there are a few locations that are only accessible by car, so depending on the kind of trip you’re planning, renting one can be the best way to transport.

Before we move on to our topics, don’t forget to take a look at our Ultimate Guide for Driving in Brazil , as we highlight all laws, documentation requirements, and the major details you must know in regards to driving in the country.

Pros of Traveling By Car in Brazil

Passenger control.

Having only familiar people or acquaintances in the car is a major advantage for me, as it makes the trip much more personal and fun. It’s also a far cry from the ordinary bureaucracies at the airport or even at the bus stations, like standing in line to board or dispatching your luggage.

Still touching on the Covid-19 subject, traveling by car is also the safest way to travel nowadays, as you’re able to keep control of the people who’ll be joining your trip, as you can all agree to quarantine before hitting the road.

Not depending on a company with predetermined schedules to take you to places can really have its perks. You can make as many pitstops as you like, you can bring as much luggage as you like, and you won’t depend on Ubers or cabs to get you around once you arrive at your destination .

Driving can make your trip much more flexible, allowing you to explore your points of interest anytime your want.

Cons of Traveling By Car in Brazil

Higher risk of accidents.

Car accidents are amongst the top 3 causes of death in Brazil, and while on the road, things can sometimes get uglier than in the big city. That is because some drivers disregard the traffic safety rules, exceeding way over the speed limit or try to surpass slower drivers .

Aside from that, the pitstops are not always very welcoming, depending on where you are, so make sure to check for safe stops on your route before you hit the road.

Road Condition and Traffic

Another thing that could bother you driving is the condition of the road you’ll be taking to get to your destination. Some of the roads are in pretty bad shape, which could slow down your pace, and consequently, ruin some of the trips .

We went through the best roads to drive in Brazil in this post , so make sure you check more on that if you’re interested in learning more about where the best and safest roads are located in the country.

The traffic is another annoyance that you may face, Sometimes the most simple accident could lead to miles and miles of traffic , so be prepared for everything and have those emergency playlists ready just in case!

Driving Can Be Very Tiresome

Getting behind the wheel and driving for 3+ hours maybe a piece of cake for some, but many people find spending too much time in a car very discomforting. Generally speaking, people are mostly OK with traveling distances like 300 miles or less, but anything over that is considered too much.

If you have more people with valid driver’s licenses joining you, this becomes way less of a burden, as the driver not only gets physically tired from steering the wheel for too long but also mentally and visually exhausted from paying attention to the road for that many hours .

That was it for our guide on the main ways of transportation in Brazil! While planning your trip, take all the topics we just went by under consideration and choose whatever works best for you!

While you’re here, I think we might interest you with these: 5 Vacation Ideas In Brazil For All Kinds Of Travelers – Interested in the tips of a local on how you can enjoy your vacay in Brazil? Look no more! 9 Off-The-Beaten-Path Places To Visit In Brazil – Tired of the same suggestions? We’ve got just the right list for you! 10 Historical Places In Brazil You Need To Visit – Everything you need to know about the most prominent historical places to visit in Brazil!

Cover Photo Credit: Flickr | Trey Ratcliff

The best ways to get around in Brazil

Oct 7, 2023 • 8 min read

Here are the best transportation options for getting around in Brazil © Brasil2 / Getty Images

Think of Brazil and huge swaths of tropical rainforest, swampy wetlands, rolling grasslands, rugged plateaus and green mountains come to mind.

You might assume that traveling around the world’s fifth-largest country would take a lifetime, but – while it can take a bit of planning – getting around this huge nation is surprisingly easy.

These days, you can cross Brazil’s patchwork of ecosystems and unique topography in a variety of relatively swift ways, including traveling by bus, carpooling, using ride-hailing apps and flying to avoid long, uncomfortable journeys by boat across the Amazon.

Whether you come to Brazil for the vibrant cities, the rich history or the natural wonders, here are the best ways to get around.

A commercial jet flies over a built-up city by the sea

Fly to cover large distances and avoid slow travel by road or boat

Because of Brazil’s gargantuan size – several of its states are larger than entire countries – flights across Brazil are handy and often necessary if you want to squeeze in multiple cities on a short trip, though there is a carbon cost. Depending on the distance covered, domestic air services are both pricier and more carbon intensive than traveling by bus, car or boat.

On the other hand, the alternative might be a journey of several days crammed into a bus or riverboat. All of the major cities have airports. Brazil’s biggest carriers, GOL and LATAM , offer regular flight deals if you book in advance, and they tend to be flexible about making changes to flights. Several smaller Brazilian budget airlines, including Azul , also operate services around the country.

You might be able to snag a discounted flight if you use this local travel hack: wait until a weekend day to purchase your flight. The GOL South America Airpass and LATAM’s South American Airpass are also available for non-South American citizens, but you need to also buy an international flight with those airlines or their internal partners.

Buses provide most overland transport in Brazil

For those with more time on their hands, buses are a popular and cheap way to get around Brazil, particularly between major cities and towns, and there are often good views en route. Bus services range from simple comum (conventional) buses to more luxurious leito (overnight sleeper) buses, reaching most corners of the country.

There are hundreds of private bus companies, and their websites sell tickets online: Águia Branca is one recommended operator. Alternatively, tickets can be purchased from ticket offices at rodoviárias (bus stations mainly built on the city outskirts), as well as through travel agencies. ID cards must be shown both when buying tickets and when boarding the bus.

One of the best value options for booking intercity trips in Brazil is Buser , which caters to thrifty locals and tourists. Book a bus using the Buser app at least a day in advance and a trip from Rio de Janeiro to São Paulo will cost you around R$60, half the usual fare.

Bus services to major cities run at least twice a day from most major hubs, but services are often restricted to daytime routes for more remote villages. Always check exactly where your bus is leaving from; in small villages and rural towns, the departure point could be anything from a gas station to the entrance to a local bed and breakfast.

Tip for taking a bus in Brazil: It’s common for schedules to change at the last minute. Make sure you arrive at least an hour and a half before departure or you risk waiting hours for the next service!

Colorful hammocks strung up on a ferry boat from Macapa to Belem

Boats shuttle around the Amazon and along the coast

What water travel in Brazil lacks in glamour and speed, it makes up for in adventure. Boat services can be divided into riverboat trips inland and short hops along the coast. Ferries and speedboats run by local transport companies such as CCR Barcas and Biotur will zip you to Brazil’s tropical islands from coastal cities across the country. It’s best to buy tickets directly from ticket offices at mainland ports.

Basic wooden riverboats and large overnight ferries with hammocks strung up on deck serve towns and cities in the Amazon region – indeed, they're often the only way to get around. Ferry terminals known as hidroviarias link large riverside cities, notably Manaus , Santarém and Belém .

Travelers with extra cash can book a luxury cruise, with pit stops at some of the Amazon’s most idyllic beaches and most biodiverse patches of rainforest. For those on a tighter budget, small single or double-level boats and large three-level riverboats are the way to go.

For the large riverboats, tickets can be purchased online from private ferry companies such as Macamazon or directly from operators at the hidroviarias . Ferries tend to depart once a day, but build some flexibility into your schedule because boats don’t always depart at the scheduled times.

One of the Amazon’s most spectacular river boat trips is the journey to the heart-shaped island of Alter do Chão . Departing from either Manaus or Belém, passengers can view the famous “meeting of the waters” – where the dark-colored Rio Negro runs parallel to the sand-yellow Salimoes River – before reaching Santarém. From here, it's an easy bus or rideshare trip to the island.

A busy bridge in a city with lots of traffic on it

Only confident drivers should hit the road in Brazil

Getting behind the driver’s wheel in Brazil is not for the faint of heart. Thanks to a lack of clear signposts and a surfeit of one-way lanes, navigating your way out of big cities such as Rio can be a challenge, and that’s before you’ve dealt with the hectic highways, heart-racing driving standards and widespread potholes.

Self-drive car rental is still an option for those looking for flexibility or if you’re traveling with heavy sports equipment such as surfboards or kiteboards. When renting a car, local Brazilian companies such as Unidas and Localiza offer the best rates, with special offers bringing starting rates down to R$80 a day for compact models. Insurance costs are extra, but it's a worthwhile investment.

If you’re itching to travel by car but want to avoid some of the safety hazards, you can also try the carpooling app, BlaBlaCar . On the app, you can book a ride with drivers who are heading to your destination and have a seat spare. Prices are very reasonable; expect to pay around R$20 for a one-hour journey.

Use taxis and rideshares for short trips

Ride-hailing apps such as Uber and 99 are the go-to in Brazil's major cities. Cars booked through these apps are less expensive than taxis that run on meters, and you'll have the peace of mind that comes from being able to follow and share your journey.

In rural areas, taxis need to be booked by phone; you can find local taxi numbers at bus stations, at your accommodations, or in restaurants and bars. If you do take a taxi, make sure the driver turns on the meter, or you risk paying inflated tourist prices.

Tip for using ride-hailing apps in Brazil: Drivers are sometimes reluctant to take passengers on short journeys; using rideshares for longer trips will reduce the chance of cancellations and delays.

Trains mainly run on heritage routes in Brazil

Because of the challenging landscape, few passenger trains are available in Brazil, and when they are, they are invariably slower and less efficient than buses. That said, if you’re looking for a memorable travel experience, the trains that run in Brazil’s south and Minas Gerais state are an evocative way to get from A to B.

For a trip back in time, hop aboard the weekend tourist train from the charming, UNESCO-listed town of Ouro Preto to Mariana in the mining state of Minas Gerais, and take in magical views of the rolling Brazilian countryside. Tickets can be purchased online from the Vale transport company.

Crowds of people throng the platforms of a metro station

Public transport is efficient in large cities

Big Brazilian cities such as Rio, São Paulo and Belo Horizonte have good transport networks based on metro systems, buses, vans and, in some cases, trains. In sprawling cities such as São Paulo, riding the metro system can be a little overwhelming – routes are confusing and trains and platforms are famously crowded. Still, it’s cheap and often faster than traveling by road through São Paulo’s heavy traffic.

Before hopping on a bus or the metro in São Paulo, purchase a refillable Bilhete Único smart card from any metro station booth or ticket machine; Rio has the similar Riocard. The best way to find public transport routes and schedules anywhere in Brazil is through Google Maps.

Accessible travel in Brazil

In 2000, Brazil introduced a law that obliged operators to make public facilities accessible for every person with a disability or reduced mobility, but not a lot has been done since then to make this a reality. However, you will find ramps and elevators in shopping malls and at public transport stations, as well as wheelchair spaces on buses and metros.

Curb ramps on sidewalks, signs in Braille and phones for the hearing-impaired are rare, and practically nonexistent in remote towns and villages. Most parking areas in Brazil have spaces for visitors with reduced mobility. For more information on accessible travel, check out Lonely Planet’s free Accessible Travel Resources .

This article was first published October 2021 and updated October 2023

Explore related stories

A man throwing confetti in the air at a street party in Olinda, Brazil

Tips & Advice

Mar 1, 2024 • 9 min read

Don't get overwhelmed by the scale of Brazil – get organized! Here are our top 10 favorite places to visit in this South American sensation.

Feb 1, 2024 • 7 min read

Jan 2, 2024 • 11 min read

Dec 27, 2023 • 8 min read

Dec 27, 2023 • 4 min read

Nov 27, 2023 • 7 min read

Rock climbing in El Chaltén, south Patagonia, Argentina

Nov 18, 2023 • 7 min read

Nov 13, 2023 • 6 min read

Nov 12, 2023 • 5 min read

Nov 10, 2023 • 4 min read

Driving in Brazil – How to Stay Safe on Brazilian Streets

If you’re a tourist who plans to go driving in Brazil, you can conveniently take the trains or the comfortable passenger buses . Even small cities have bus transport services. Some travel companies can even take tourists to places that are accessible only by 4-wheel drive vehicles. Taxis are available but they can cost you. If you’re in a major city, the subway system is the fastest and least expensive way to travel.

At some point or another, you will surely need to travel by car, whether borrowed or rented. This mode of travel is especially useful in places that are not served by buses, like beaches for instance. Rental car companies, however, have their downside. Driving a rental car can pose some difficulties as you will have to deal with technicalities like rental car agreement and insurance.

If you plan to drive a car in Brazil yourself, be advised that traffic in this city can challenge even the most careful and patient driver. In fact, driving in Brazil is not for the faint of heart. To get you started, here are some traffic situations that you may encounter on the road and how they can affect your driving in Brazil .

Table of Contents

Street Parking

Here are some parking choices that you may make in the city.

Pay for a parking lot space and park the car yourself
Pay for valet parking
Park in an available space on the street and walk to your destination
Fight for a parking space in the shopping mall
Negotiate parking in a narrow street while you hold up traffic
Buy parking cards that you can leave on your car dash

Animal and Pedestrian Crossing

Highly populated Brazilian cities are filled with pedestrians who cross the street just about everywhere. They may dodge oncoming vehicles, stopping in the middle of the road until their path is clear. Don’t stop to let them pass as you can get rear-ended by a driver who expects you to keep on driving.

When you’re driving in Brazil , expect schoolchildren crossing the street at all hours of the day. There are more of them in the morning when they go to school and after classes when they head for their homes. Not all crossings have policemen on duty, so stay alert.

Keep your eyes opened as well for stray animals or pets crossing the road.

Truck Drivers

Many Brazilian truck drivers are safety-conscious and trained to give way to smaller vehicles. There are also those who are tired, drowsy, or drunk. Be careful when you’re around trucks while driving in Brazil .

Motorcycle Riders

Motorcycle riders often weave in and out of traffic, and pass between vehicles when traffic is stopped, or even if it is flowing. São Paulo’s motorcycle messengers or “motoboys” pose some real danger as they have to drive hazardously to get their charges delivered on time.

People who’ll be late for work would rather gamble with their safety by riding mototaxis which can snake in and out of traffic. These popular mode of transportation is fast but can be risky as well

Lack of Road Signs

In certain parts of the city, road signs get fewer and farther apart, until they can’t be found anymore. If you’re driving in Brazil , this may force you to stop at a gas station or a truck stop bar to get your directions right. Be very grateful if you find someone who can speak English.

Bad Drivers

Drivers in Brazil can develop bad to dangerous habits, from reckless driving to road rage. Such violations of driving rules give rise to traffic accidents and deaths which has reached 42,000 in Brazil. Most of these vehicular mishaps occurred on highways and roads.

Huge Traffic Jams

Getting stuck in traffic several times a day is a familiar ordeal when you are driving in Brazil . Bad weather, road accidents and holidays are the usual causes of huge traffic jams in big cities like São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro.

Speed Bumps while Driving in Brazil

As you go driving in Brazil , you will notice huge speed bumps or lombadas on some roads to discourage overspeeding especially in residential and densely populated areas. These bumps should be painted with bright stripes but aren’t. As a result, drivers who are unaware of these monstrous lombadas fail to slow down and end up with a damaged vehicle undercarriage.

Armed Robbery and Carjacking

Armed robbery and carjacking is not uncommon in Brazil. Most drivers keep the doors locked when driving in an unsafe neighbourhood. Some roll their windows up during the day and would rather roast in an un-air-conditioned car than risk being robbed at knifepoint at a red light or traffic stop. If you’re driving in Brazil, know how to deal with an armed person and learn to diffuse a life-threatening situation. Avoid night-driving if it’s not necessary at all.

Miserable Road Condition

Not all roads and highways are well-maintained in Brazil. There are roads with mudpits where you can get stuck as well as potholes like moon craters. While driving in Brazil , don’t expect to see warning signs about dangerous road conditions ahead as, most likely, there won’t be any. You should be familiar with such road conditions and anticipate them in advance.

Surfing & Kite Surfing in Natal Brazil

Natal Brazil English Jobs: Which is Right for You?

Brazil Culture – Learn to Flow with its People and Etiquette

By ferry and boat

Amazon riverboats, tailor-made travel itineraries for brazil, created by local experts.

9 days / from 2042 USD

Brazilian Beaches: Copacabana, Botafogo and more

Begin at Foz do Iguaçu, where you will stand in awe of the huge Iguaçu Falls. Next up, we'll head to the lively city of Rio de Janeiro, home of the legendary Copacabana, Botafogo and Flamengo beaches, and of course, Sugar Loaf Mountain and the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue.

10 days / from 1700 USD

Blissful Brazil

Welcome to a lavish journey that marries adventure with style, featuring stays in carefully chosen four-star hotels. This reinvigorating trip will have you sightseeing in São Paulo, gazing at the spectacular Foz do Iguaçu falls and relaxing on Rio's finest beaches before you know it.

10 days / from 2683 USD

Breathtaking Brazil: Rio, Beaches and Waterfalls

Explore the lively city of Rio de Janeiro, home to Ipanema and Copacabana beaches; experience the stunning Foz do Iguaçu National Park and see the world’s largest waterfalls system; immerse yourself in cultural Salvador, the magnificent former capital of Portugal’s New World colony.

Tailor-made trips for Brazil

It’s hardly surprising that a country the size of Brazil relies on air travel a good deal; in some parts of Amazônia, air links are more important than roads and rivers. Any town has at least an airstrip, and all cities have airports, usually some distance from the city but not always: Santos Dumont in Rio, Congonhas in São Paulo and Guararapes in Recife are all pretty central. The airports of Brasília, Congonhas and, above all, Guarulhos in São Paulo are chronically crowded, with long check-in lines. If flying internationally from Guarulhos, add at least an extra hour to account for the phenomenal queues to get through passport control, and don’t be surprised, on arrival, for it to take an hour or more to clear customs and immigration. If travelling with children, go straight to the front of the lines: families, pregnant women and seniors have priority.

When buying your international ticket, you should consider the possibility of adding an air pass , though note that the emergence of budget airlines in the country means that they now only make sense if you’re planning a series of long-haul trips – from the South to the Amazon and back via the Northeast, for example.

If Brazil is only one stop on a longer trip, consider the Mercosur Airpass , which covers eight airlines of Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Paraguay and Uruguay. The regulations are fairly complicated but the passes basically allow two stopovers per country (plus point of origin) up to a maximum of eight, although an extra stopover is allowed to give you use of both the Argentine and Brazilian airports at Iguaçu Falls. The route must include at least two countries, and the price of a pass is based on the number of miles flown, which always works out costing far less than purchasing regular tickets. Prices may be affected by the time of year that you travel.

If Brazil is your only destination, the TAM Air Pass can be a huge moneysaver. It is valid for thirty days from the first flight and costs US$530 for four flights if bought together with a TAM international flight, US$700 if you fly with another carrier. Additional flights are around US$150 each, much cheaper than you are likely to pay if you book a flight yourself within Brazil.

Lastly, if you have an air pass and change the time or date of your flight, always remember to cancel the original flight . If you don’t, the computer flags you as a no-show, and all your other air-pass reservations will also be cancelled.

Budget airlines

A recent phenomenon in Brazil is the appearance of budget airlines, of which the biggest is GOL ; others include Webjet and Azul , which started operating in 2009. GOL has an extensive network, cheap seats, is efficient and usually much better value than TAM – though, irritatingly, American Express is the only foreign credit-card that’s accepted on its website. In Brazilian holiday periods (July, around Xmas, and Carnaval) flights are often booked up and you need to book as far in advance as you can. Outside these times, if you can be a little flexible on dates and if the TAM airpass does not meet your needs, your cheapest strategy would be to book tickets with Gol after arriving in Brazil at a Gol desk in an airport.

Flying to the Northeast or Amazônia from the South can be tiresome, as many of these long-distance routes are no more than glorified bus runs, stopping everywhere before heading north. In planning your itinerary, it’s a good idea to check carefully how many times a plane stops – for example, between São Paulo and Fortaleza, a flight may stop as many as four times or as few as once.

There are safety issues to consider when flying in the Amazon, where investigations following a recent series of crashes revealed serious problems in a number of regional airlines, notably Rico . Where possible, stick to Gol and TAM when flying around the Amazon. In many parts of Amazônia, air travel in small planes, or aerotaxis , is very common – the regional word for these flights is teco-teco . Before taking one, you should be aware that the airstrips are often dangerous, the planes routinely fly overloaded and are not reliably maintained, and no checks are made on the qualifications of pilots – some don’t have any.

Prices are reasonable in the South and Northeast but climb steeply as soon as the Amazon is involved, where a return flight from Rio or São Paulo can often be scarily similar to the cost of a flight to Miami. It’s always much cheaper to buy internal tickets linked to your international flights if you plan on heading to the Amazon from Rio or São Paulo. If you are flying outside holiday periods in Brazil (July & Dec–March) and you’re not heading to the Amazon, you will probably get a cheaper deal buying a ticket in Brazil after you arrive.

You probably won’t be taking many trains in Brazil. Although there’s an extensive rail network, most of it is for cargo only, and even where there are passenger trains they’re almost invariably slower and less convenient than the buses. Exceptions are the metrô rail systems in Porto Alegre, Rio, São Paulo and Brasília and a few tourist journeys worth making for themselves, especially in the South and Minas Gerais.

The bus system in Brazil is excellent and makes travelling around the country easy, comfortable and economical, despite the distances involved. Inter-city buses leave from a station called a rodoviária , usually built on city outskirts.

Buses are operated by hundreds of private companies, but prices are standardized, even when more than one firm plies the same route, and are reasonable: Rio to São Paulo is around R$80, to Belo Horizonte R$75, to Foz do Iguaçu R$200 and to Salvador R$240, while São Paulo to Brasília is around R$150. Long-distance buses are comfortable enough to sleep in, and have on-board toilets (which can get smelly on long journeys): the lower your seat number, the further away from them you’ll be. Buses stop every two or three hours at well-supplied postos , but as prices at these are relatively high it’s not a bad idea to bring along water and some food. Some bus companies will supply meal vouchers for use at the postos on long journeys.

There are luxury buses, too, called leitos , which do overnight runs between the major cities – worth taking once for the experience, with fully reclining seats in curtained partitions, freshly ironed sheets and an attendant plying insomniacs with coffee and conversation. They cost about a third of the price of an air ticket, and twice as much as a normal long-distance bus; they’re also less frequent and need to be booked a few days in advance. No matter what kind of bus, it’s a good idea to have a light sweater or blanket during night journeys, as the air conditioning is often uncomfortably cold.

Going any distance, it’s best to buy your ticket at least a day in advance, from the rodoviária or, in some cities, from travel agents. An exception is the Rio–São Paulo route, where a shuttle service means you can always turn up without a ticket and never have to wait more than fifteen minutes. Numbered seats are provided on all routes: if you want a window, ask for janela . If you cross a state line, you will get a small form with the ticket, which asks for the number of your seat ( poltrona ), the number of your ticket ( passagem ), the number of your passport ( identidade ) and your destination ( destino ). You have to fill it in and give it to the driver before you’ll be let on board. Buses have luggage compartments, which are safe: you check pieces at the side of the bus and get a ticket for them. Keep an eye on your hand luggage, and take anything valuable with you when you get off for a halt.

Driving standards in Brazil hover between abysmal and appalling. The country has one of the highest death tolls from driving-related accidents in the world, and on any journey you can see why, with thundering trucks and drivers treating the road as if it were a Grand Prix racetrack. Fortunately, inter-city bus drivers are the exception to the rule: they are usually very good, and their buses usually have devices fitted that make it impossible for them to exceed the speed limit. Electronic speed traps are widely used everywhere, and if you get caught by one in a rental car, the fine will simply be added to your credit card. Since 2008, a zero-tolerance law has made it strictly illegal to drive after consuming any amount of alcohol, a response to the enormous death toll caused by drunk drivers. Offenders risk severe punishments if tests detect any alcohol in their blood – expect at least a hefty fine and the threat of imprisonment.

Road quality varies according to region: the South and Southeast have a good paved network; the Northeast has a good network on the coast but is poor in the interior; and roads in Amazônia are by far the worst, with even major highways closed for weeks or months at a time as they are washed away by the rains. Most cities are fairly well signposted, so getting out of town shouldn’t be too difficult; if city traffic is daunting, try to arrange to collect your car on a Sunday when traffic is light. If at all possible, avoid driving at night because potholes (even on main roads) and lombadas (speed bumps) may not be obvious, and breaking down after dark could be dangerous. Outside the big cities, Brazilian roads are deathtraps at night; poorly lit, in bad condition and lightly policed. Especially worth avoiding at night are the Via Dutra , linking Rio and São Paulo, because of the huge numbers of trucks and the treacherous ascent and descent of the Serra do Mar, and the Belém–Brasília highway , whose potholes and uneven asphalt make it difficult enough to drive even in daylight. Where possible, avoid driving after dark in the Mato Grosso and Amazon regions as well; though rare, armed roadside robberies have been known to happen there.

An international driving licence is useful: although foreign licences are accepted for visits of up to six months, you may have a hard time convincing a police officer of this. Outside of the towns and cities, service stations can be few and far between, so keep a careful eye on the fuel gauge. Service stations sell both petrol ( gasolina ) and ethanol ( álcool ), with new cars (including rentals) usually capable of running on either fuel. Álcool is considerably cheaper than gasolina , and there’s no longer a noticeable difference in terms of performance. Service stations in rural areas do not always accept international credit cards, so make sure you have sufficient cash on a long trip. In urban areas, plastic is universally accepted at petrol stations, although a common scam is to charge around twenty percent more per litre when payment is made by credit card rather than cash: always check in advance whether there is a price difference if you intend to pay by credit card.

Parking , especially in the cities, can be tricky due to security and finding a space, and it’s worth paying extra for a hotel with some kind of lock-up garage. A universal feature of city driving in Brazil is the flanelinha , named for the flannel that informal parking attendants wave at approaching cars; these attendants will help you into and out of parking spaces and guard your car, in return for a real or two. Brazilians will go to almost any lengths to avoid paying them, but they’re making a living and providing a service, so do the decent thing. In any event, never leave anything valuable inside the car.

Driving in Brazil is very different from northern Europe and the US. Do not expect Brazilians to pay much attention to lane markings, use indicators or worry about cutting you off or overtaking you on the inside. Use your rear and wing mirrors constantly when city driving. At night, you should cautiously roll through red lights in city centres or deserted-looking streets, to avoid assaltantes . And a crucial thing to know is that flashing lights from an oncoming car mean “I’m coming through – get out of the way” and NOT “please go ahead”, as in the UK and US. It sounds intimidating, and it is for the first couple of days, but it is surprising how quickly you get used to it.

Renting a car

Renting a car in Brazil is straightforward. Of the big-name international companies, Hertz and Avis are the most widely represented, with Budget and Dollar increasing their representation. There are also plenty of reliable Brazilian alternatives, such as Unidas, Interlocadora and Localiza. Car-rental offices ( locadoras ) can be found at every airport and in most towns regardless of size, although you will pay slightly more for airport pick-up and drop-off. Almost all cars in Brazil have manual gears; automatics are rare.

Rates start from around R$120 a day for a compact car (Fiat Punto or similar) including unlimited mileage; a basic air-conditioned model will start at around R$140, also including unlimited mileage. Four-wheel-drive vehicles are rare and extremely expensive. Prices don’t always include insurance – a comprehensive policy will cost an additional R$25 per day or so with a deductible of R$500. If you have a US credit card, you may find that it can be used to cover the additional liability – check before leaving home. In any case, a credit card is essential for making a deposit when renting a car. It’s not a bad idea to reserve a car before you arrive in Brazil, as you can be sure to get the best available rate.

As you would anywhere, carefully check the condition of the car before accepting it and pay special attention to the state of the tyres (including the spare), and make sure there’s a jack, warning triangle and fire extinguisher: the police will check for these if you get pulled over. All cars have front and back seatbelts; their use is compulsory, and stiff on-the-spot fines are imposed on drivers and front-seat passengers found not to be wearing them.

There are enormous numbers of taxis in Brazilian cities, and they’re very cheap, especially if there are two or more passengers. City cabs are metered, and have two rates: 1 is cheaper, 2 more expensive. The rate the taxi is using is indicated on the taximeter, after the fare. Rate 2 is automatic on trips to and from airports and bus stations in big cities, after 8pm, and all day Sunday and public holidays. Many cities give taxi drivers a Christmas bonus by allowing them to charge Rate 2 for the whole of December. Occasionally, drivers will refer to a sheet and revise the fare slightly upwards – they are not ripping you off, but referring to price updating tables that fill the gap until taximeters can be readjusted to reflect the official annual increases.

Taxis in small towns and rural areas do not often have meters, so it’s best to agree on the fare in advance – they’ll be more expensive than in the cities. Most airports and some bus stations are covered by taxi cooperatives, which operate under a slightly different system: attendants give you a coupon with fares to various destinations printed on it – you pay either at a kiosk in advance, or the driver. These are more expensive than regular taxis, but they’re reliable and often more comfortable. Tipping is not obligatory, but appreciated.

Water travel and ferries are also important forms of transport in parts of Brazil. Specific details are included in the relevant sections of the Guide, but look out for the ferry to Niterói, without which no journey to Rio would be complete; Salvador , where there are regular services to islands and towns in the huge bay on which the city is built; in the South between the islands of the Bay of Paranaguá; and most of all in Amazônia .

In Amazônia, rivers have been the main highways for centuries, and the Amazon itself is navigable to ocean-going ships as far west as Iquitos in Peru, nearly 3000km upstream from Belém.

In all the large riverside cities of the Amazon – notably Belém, Manaus and Santarém – there are hidroviárias, ferry terminals for waterborne bus services. Amazon river travel is slow and can be tough going, but it’s a fascinating experience. On bigger boats, there are a number of classes; in general, it’s better to avoid cabine, where you swelter in a cabin, and choose primeiro (first class) instead, sleeping in a hammock on deck. Segundo (second class) is usually hammock space in the lower deck or engine room. Wooden boats are much more comfortable than metal, but usually slower. Take plenty of provisions, and expect to practise your Portuguese.

The range of boat transport in the Amazon runs from luxury tourist boats and large three-level riverboats to smaller one- or two-level boats (the latter normally confining their routes to main tributaries and local runs) and covered launches operated by tour companies. The most popular route is the Belém–Manaus trip, which takes four to six days.

The Rough Guides to Brazil and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Travel advice for Brazil

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Brazil

Eating and drinking in Brazil
How to get to Brazil
Travel Tips Brazil for planning and on the go

Find even more inspiration here

Travel Tips

written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 26.04.2021

Ready to travel and discover Brazil?

Get support from our local experts for stress-free planning & worry-free travels.

Where to stay
Travel advice

How To Drive To Rio De Janeiro: The Ultimate Road Trip Guide

Rio de Janeiro is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Brazil, and for good reason – it’s got everything, from incredible beaches to world-famous landmarks. But can you drive to Rio de Janeiro? The answer is yes, you can drive to Rio de Janeiro – but it’s not exactly a quick or easy trip. The drive from Brazil’s capital, Brasília, to Rio de Janeiro is around 1,200 kilometers (745 miles), and it can take upwards of 12 hours to make the journey. And that’s if you’re driving on good roads; many of the roads in Brazil are in poor condition, which can make the trip even longer. So, if you’re planning on driving to Rio de Janeiro, be prepared for a long and potentially challenging journey. But once you arrive, you’ll be rewarded with some of the best views, beaches, and experiences in Brazil.

Getting around Rio de Janeiro is simple. There are buses and ferries available to transport people around the city. In addition to taxis, the city has a plethora of public transportation options at night. If using public transportation, expats should keep a close eye on their belongings. Users of smartphones can summon a taxi by using the Uber app. The safety of using this method is generally superior to that of regular taxis , and the fares may be lower. One of the most popular ways to get around Rio is by cycling. Dedicated cycle lanes have been built throughout the city in an effort to encourage cyclists.

How can I drive from Miami to Sao Paulo, Brazil? The drive between Miami and Sao Luis , Brazil, takes 1196 miles. It will take you approximately 19h 52m to travel from Miami to Sao Paulo.

Can I drive from New York to Brazil? The New York- Bolivia drive takes 776 miles to complete. The drive from New York to Brazil is estimated to take 13 hours and 14 minutes.

How can I visit Brazil from home using car? After following the Pan-American Highway, the drive to Brazil is possible. There is only one problem: due to the dangerous nature of the Darien Gap, your car will have to be shipped between continents because it is only accessible between Panama and Colombia.

Can You Drive From The Us To South America?

There is no definitive answer to this question since there is no one route that goes from the US to South America. Depending on where in the US you are starting from and where in South America you want to go, you may be able to drive part of the way or none of the way. If you want to drive from the US to South America, you will need to do some research to figure out the best route to take.

Can You Drive To Brazil From Florida?

Because Florida is 3772 kilometers away from Brazil, you can travel to it in 75.45 hours at the consistent speed of 50 kilometers per hour. Depending on your bus or train speed, the time you spend in Brazil will vary; however, the time you spend in Brazil is determined by the type of vehicle you ride.

The distance between Brazil and Florida is 879 miles. It will take about 14 hours 47 minutes to drive from Florida to Brazil. Can I drive from Miami to Brazil? The distance between these two locations is approximately 1196 miles. Is it safe to drive through Brazil? You should drive at night if you’re worried about it, and your car should be locked down. Due to ongoing political unrest in Venezuela, travelers are advised to avoid visiting the entire country.

The Darién Gap, a curious natural wilderness, has made it impossible to drive between the two continents without stopping. It takes approximately 16 hours and 46 minutes to drive from Boston to Sao Paulo, Brazil, a distance of 1004 miles. The driving distance between Colombia and Brazil is 7,263 km. It takes about four days to drive from Colombia to Brazil. Foreigners who have recently arrived in Brazil are permitted to drive for up to 180 days. Sailing through Brazil on a cruise ship will allow you to see some of the most amazing sights while traveling in style. On the Global Peace Index, which is based on more than 2,000 opinions, Uruguay is rated the safest country in South America in 2021.

The Cape Horn is popular with cruise passengers exploring the Antarctic Peninsula. If you travel at the consistent speed of 50 kilometers per hour, you can reach Usa in 135 hours; Brazil is approximately 6794 kilometers from Usa. Traveling from the United States to Brazil via the Pan-American highway is simple. Belize is only accessible by road from only two points. The Darien Gap is a dangerous section of the Colombia-Panama jungle that is impossible to access. A visit to Brazil on a shoestring budget can be an extremely rewarding experience. The Pan-American Highway, which stretches for over 1,000 miles from Prudhoe Bay, Alaska, to Ushuaia, Argentina, is a network of road networks in the United States. The Darien Gap, located between North and South America, is a dangerous place because it contains dense rainforest with jungle-covered mountains, swamps, and poisonous snakes.

There is a 3,553- mile drive between Brazil and California. If you are a foreigner, you are permitted to drive as long as your license and passport are both valid. On the road, the cost to travel between these two countries is $585. If you want to plan your trip, you should use an online travel planner like TripAdvisor, which provides the most up-to-date information.

A Guide To Driving In Brazil

It is critical to understand that your foreign driver’s license is not valid in all cases when driving in Brazil. If you intend to stay in Brazil for more than six months, you must apply for a Brazilian driver ‘s license. If you plan to stay in Brazil for more than six months, you should bring your valid foreign driver’s license and official translation into Portuguese. Travel in Brazil is recommended at the highest level, as the country has a high rate of road accidents. You should be cautious while driving a car because you should wear a seatbelt, and you should avoid driving in rural areas with poor road conditions.

Can You Drive To Brazil From Los Angeles?

How do I drive from Los Angeles to Brazil? This distance of approximately 2023 miles connects Los Angeles and Sao Luis.

Traveling by car from Brazil to California takes approximately 335 miles. It takes an average of six hours to travel across the country. Foreigners in Brazil may drive for up to 180 days after entering the country. It will take approximately 31h 52m to reach Brazil from San Diego. Colombia and Brazil are located in the heart of South America, with a distance of 7263 kilometers. In four days, it will take you approximately three hours to travel from Colombia to Brazil. Can I drive from the USA to Brazil?

If not, what is the best way to get there? As of November 2016, Ohio is a distance of 7673 kilometers from Brazil, giving you a time limit of 153.48 hours to reach the country. Rio de Janeiro is located in Brazil, which is approximately 4749 miles / 7642.77 km / 4126.77 nautical miles from the United States. It takes 3408 miles of driving to drive between Costa Rica and Brazil. The drive from Costa Rica to Brazil takes approximately two days and 17 hours. There is a distance of 8692 kilometers between Venezuela and Brazil. On average, you’ll take four days and 23 hours to drive from Venezuela to Brazil.

The Pan-American Highway runs through a 90-mile stretch of roadless rainforest and swamps at the end of the Darien Gap. There are numerous reasons why the only road between Panama and Colombia is not constructed. Brazil has a wide variety of road types, from major highways to rural road networks. A nonstop flight from New York to Sao Paulo takes 7 hours, 53 minutes to complete. The eastern Siberian Peninsula and the Alaskan Peninsula are separated by the narrowest point in the Bering Strait, which is about 55 miles from shore. The flight from Los Angeles to Brazil takes 10 hours and 46 minutes to complete. The shortest direct flight from Brazil to California is 11 hours and 50 minutes. A journey from Los Angeles to Brazil would take approximately three months and over 12,000 miles.

Is It Possible To Drive To Brazil

Yes, it is possible to drive to Brazil. Brazil is the fifth largest country in the world, and it has a land area of 8,515,767 square kilometers. The country is bordered by Argentina, Bolivia, Colombia, Guyana, Paraguay, Peru, Suriname, Uruguay, and Venezuela. There are many roads that lead into Brazil, and the country has a well-developed infrastructure.

During a road trip through Brazil, you will experience some of the most beautiful rainforests , beaches, and grasslands you have ever seen. The Transpantaneira, Estrada, and Interior section of the route is a must-visit area. This route takes you along the Atlantic Ocean’s coast, making it a breathtaking drive. If you want to take in the scenery at sea, this is the best route. While the dry season runs from June to January, the best time to visit is from June to January. If you want to go off-road and have a lot of fun, National Park Da Bocaina is your place. If you want to take in more of the history and culture of Diamantina and Paraty, the route from Diamantina to Paraty is an excellent choice.

If you enjoy shopping, there will always be stores along your route; however, Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo are the best places to go shopping for the best shopping experience. Visiting landmarks is not uncommon in all of the different landscapes because of the diversity. You should plan a day near the ocean if you travel close to the beach. There are numerous art districts in each of the large cities, so it’s worth visiting one while you’re there. Renting a car from a car rental agency can cost as little as ten dollars per day, but it can quickly consume a large portion of your wallet. In addition, depending on the type of vehicle you are renting, you may be charged more for the perks or luxuries you desire. You must meet the requirements for renting a car in Brazil.

Avis will rent out to anyone 21 and up, which may be a little more lenient than other companies, such as Hertz. If you want to go on a trip through Brazil’s forests, you should prepare yourself for anything that could happen in the wild. A drive across Brazil can be both thrilling and enjoyable. If you come into contact with a venomous or dangerous animal, it is best to be familiar with it so you are aware of what to do if you come into contact with it. It is critical to know how to move around in Brazil so that you do not waste time and money.

Things To Keep In Mind When Driving To Brazil

Before you begin your trip to Brazil, there are a few things you should keep in mind. To begin, make sure you have a valid driver’s license and that your car is in good working order. The tank must also be filled to the top. There are long distances between cities in Brazil, so it is critical to maintain a steady flow of gas so that you do not run out. Finally, make sure to take the necessary precautions while driving in Brazil, such as wearing a seatbelt and driving in the proper lane. If you’re thinking about driving from Texas to Brazil, there are a few things you should know. The distance between Texas and Brazil is 984 miles, which is the first thing you should know. It takes about 16 hours and 50 minutes to drive from Texas to Brazil. There is a high rate of crime in Brazil. Drive in the correct lane when traveling through Brazil, as well as wearing a seatbelt. Finally, you should have plenty of fuel in your tank because the distances between cities in Brazil can be long.

Can You Drive From Texas To Brazil

There is no direct route from Texas to Brazil. The closest international crossing is at the border between Texas and Mexico. From there, you would need to travel through Central America and then down to Brazil. This would be a very long and difficult journey, so it is not recommended.

From Texas to Brazil, there are 10 options for transportation: a plane, a taxi, a car, a bus, or a train. You can view step-by-step directions and compare ticket prices by clicking an option below. The distance between Texas and Brazil is 879 miles, and the drive time is 984.4 miles. The American Automobile Association (AmAmtrak) is a railroad service that connects the United States and three Canadian provinces. Since 1985, the company has transported over 211,000 passengers on its 22,000 route miles (34,000 km) of rail. It was founded in 1971 and is based in Washington, D.C. As with all ticket types, there are five subclasses: Saver, Value, Flexible, Business, and Premium. A leading bus company based in Dallas, Texas, Greyhound transports over 3800 passengers per day throughout North America, Mexico, and Canada. Every year, 18 million people use the Greyhound bus, which travels 5.4 billion miles (8.6 billion kilometers) on its fleet of around 1700 vehicles. There are approximately 230 Greyhound stations throughout the United States where you can buy tickets and catch the bus.

Is It Safe To Drive The Pan American Highway?

I can confidently state that driving the Pan American Highway is safe. Accidents are frequently avoided as a result of the highway’s well-maintained condition and the presence of emergency services. When driving on the highway, it is usually clear whether there are rest stops or fuel stations nearby.

Can You Drive To Brazil From New York

There is no direct route from New York to Brazil, so driving is not an option. The closest one could get by car would be to take a ferry from New York to Puerto Rico, and then fly from Puerto Rico to Brazil.

The drive from New York to Brazil takes 776 miles. The Pan-American Highway runs through Prudhoe Bay, Alaska, and can be used for nearly 25,000 miles to reach the tip of South America. Because the Darien Gap is a dangerous section of jungle, the only interruption will be between Panama and Colombia. Many tourists only need a three-month visa for short stays, so this article will look at obtaining a provisional driving permit. Border restrictions, travel bans, home orders, and business closings may all affect travelers visiting Brazil during an emergency.

Is It Safe To Drive To Brazil?

Is it safe to drive in Brazil? In Brazil, there are a lot of road accidents. It is a poor driving environment overall. It is critical that visitors be cautious on the roads and that bicycles are not used. Many rural areas are without good roads that lead to the main highway. How long would it take from NYC to Rio de Janeiro? If you travel at the consistent speed of 50 kilometers per hour between New York and Rio De Janeiro, you can reach Rio De Janeiro in 155.07 hours; the distance between New York and Rio De Janeiro is 7753 kilometers.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Ultimate Guide to Planning a Perfect Trip to Brazil: Expert Tips from a Local!

April 10, 2023

Paula Martinelli

If you are planning a dream trip to Brazil, this is your one-stop guide! Here you will find all you need to know to plan a safe trip to Brazil , plus all the useful tips prepared by a Brazileira ;-).

When you think about Brazil, what comes to your mind? Carnaval…Rio de Janeiro…Samba…Soccer (Futebol)…Beaches…Amazon forest? Most people have some association with Brazil from popular culture. I am here to EXPAND on those associations so that you can get to know this amazing country, diverse culture, and incredible people.

Join me as I take you beyond the usual associations with Brazil from popular culture, and delve into the rich history, culture, and people that make this country truly unique. With stunning landscapes, mouthwatering cuisine, and a blend of Portuguese, African, European, and Brazilian influences, Brazil has something for everyone.

Don’t miss out on experiencing the beauty and excitement of Brazil like a local. Let this guide be your go-to resource for planning the perfect trip to Brazil, tailor-made just for you. Get ready to create memories that will last a lifetime in this extraordinary destination!

Why you Should Travel to Brazil

Well, amigo, let me start by saying why you should travel to Brazil. Brazil is one of the most awe-inspiring places to visit on the Planet, and I really mean it.

Visit the natural beauty of the falls at Iguaçu, meet the locals at the Copacabana beach, see one of the Seven Wonders of the New World, Christ the Redeemer, learn how to dance the samba, enjoy a barbecue, and cool off with a caipirinha and be able to cruise around some of the largest jungles in the planet, Pantanal and Amazon.

Brazil offers it all for any travel style – from solo travelers to a family vacation trip of a lifetime, to adventure travelers, to one of the best routes to backpack in South America .

Brazil is a very vast country, and because of its size, it is impossible to travel around and get to visit many places on your first trip. You will need good planning and longer than a week to visit 1-2 States.

Brazil Travel Tips Essentials

LANGUAGE: The official language in Brazil is Portuguese. English and Spanish are not widely spoken.

CURRENCY: The currency in Brazil is the Brazilian Real, and the U.S. Dollar is not accepted. Check here for the latest conversion rate.

TIPPING: It is not customary to tip in Brazil

CREDIT CARD & ATMs: A credit card is widely accepted in Brazil. ATMs can be easily found in commercial areas, but they may be closed at night for security reasons.

PLUGS: In Brazil, the power plugs are type N, the standard voltage is 127 / 220 V, and the standard frequency is 60 Hz. I recommend buying a universal adapter and using a converter for hair dryers.

WI-FI IN BRAZIL: You can get Wi-Fi service in Brazil pretty much everywhere (unless you are planning to visit some remote areas). Normally the hotels, restaurants and shopping malls offer free internet service.

CELL PHONE: Your international cell phone will work in Brazil. However, to avoid high international calling charges, you’ll want to pick up a local SIM card and get a local calling plan. You can buy these at street-corner kiosks (called bancas) and some supermarkets.

HUAWEI E5577s-321 Mobile WiFi Router

I recommend buying this WiFi router. You can insert any SIM card around the world, and it shares data across all your devices, up to 10, via WiFi and the battery lasts up to 12 hours.

Brazil Travel Planning: Orientation & Map

Brazil is the largest country in South America and the 5th largest country in the world, with a population of 212 million people (2.75% of the total world population).

Brazil might be the largest country most of the world doesn’t know a whole lot about. Brazil’s economy ranks 1st in South America, 2nd in the Americas, and 8th in the world.

Although Brazil covers an area equal to 88% of the US and therefore is almost as large, being the size of the US without Alaska .

The coastline of Brazil measures 7,491 km, which makes it the 16th longest national coastline in the world. Throughout the coastal areas, geographical features can be found like islands, reefs, and bays.

What is the Visa Requirement to Travel to Brazil?

You need a valid passport for at least 6-months from the date of entry is required by all nationals referred below.

A visa to Travel to Brazil is not required by all nationals of EU countries for stays of up to 90-days. A Visa to travel to Brazil is required by nationals of Australia, Canada, and the USA.

Visa-Free Entry to stay up to 90 days for American, Canadian, Japanese, and Australian passport holders. Consult this website for more visa requirements.

What are the best Flights options to Brazil?

There are numerous options for flights to Brazil and many gateways in the US and Canada.

Direct flights leave from: Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, Newark, New York, Orlando, Washington, and Toronto.

TAM is the only Brazilian carrier serving the US at present, while the North American airlines are American, Air Canada, Continental, Delta, and United.

Most flights go to either Rio or São Paulo. If your ultimate destination is somewhere other than these cities, it is usually best to connect in Rio or São Paulo.

What are the Best Places to Visit in Brazil?

When talking about visiting Brazil, everyone seems to gravitate to either Rio de Janeiro , Iguaçu Falls, or the Amazon .

I regret to say that those places are very far distance from each other. Therefore, if you have only 2-week to visit Brazil you would need to pick one destination over another. You can see some ideas of the Best Brazil Route here .

Just take a quick glance at a map to figure this out, I have picked my top 10 places to visit in Brazil and pinned the map to help to give a better perspective of each location:

SÃO PAULO (São Paulo State) – Largest city, very metropolitan and cultural, great cuisine
RIO DE JANEIRO (Rio de Janeiro State) – Second largest city, amazing natural beauty, and beaches
PARATY (Rio de Janeiro State) – 4 hours driving from Rio, Brazilian imperial town by the ocean
ANGRA DOS REIS (Rio de Janeiro State): The most beautiful coastline in Brazil with over 2,000 beaches to choose from
CURITIBA (Paraná State) – Large city praised with one of the world’s best models of urban planning
FLORIANÓPOLIS (Santa Catarina State) – Island in the South with perfect beaches and excellent surfing
PANTANAL (Mato Grosso & Mato Grosso do Sul State) – The world’s largest inland wetland area, one of the best to spot animals
AMAZON FOREST (Amazonas State) – The largest tropical rainforest in the world
JALAPÃO (Tocantins) – Large variety of landscapes including sand dunes, rivers, waterfalls, and Savana
NATAL (Rio Grande do Norte State) -Stunning beaches, white sand dunes, and rich diverse culture.

Plan Well Your Itinerary in Brazil

Remember that pre-planning, researching, and understanding what you are looking for will help make your travels far more successful and safe. I have spent years of my life living and traveling around Brazil and these articles will be extremely helpful with tons of Brazil Travel Tips for you:

10 Best Backpacking Routes in South America
15 Amazing day trip from Sao Paulo
21 Amazing Facts about Rio de Janeiro
Rio de Janeiro Itinerary
Sao Paulo Itinerary
Jalapao, Brazil Itinerary
Angra dos Reis Itinerary
Petropolis Itinerary
Paraty itinerary
Bonito Itinerary

How much does a Trip to Brazil Cost?

Brazil is one of the most expensive countries to visit in South America, but because of the exchange rate, when converted, prices are still very affordable.

The best time to travel to Brazil on a budget is in the off-season. If you travel outside of Christmas or Carnival, flying to Brazil can be quite affordable.

Check the average trip to Brazil cost below – Per day for 2 people – Based on 4 stars hotel, eating all meals at the restaurant, renting a car – Of course, it can be less, it will depend on your travel style:

Average Prices per Day/ 2 People

Planning a trip to brazil: transportation & getting around.

If you are visiting more than one state, I recommend flying instead of traveling by bus or car. The distances are long, and flying will save you time and allow you to visit more locations in less time.

You can get a 15% off your rental car when you book through this site . I use and recommend RentalCar because it is the most reliable rental car source, and it allows you to compare the prices of different places.

Planning a Trip to Brazil: Accommodations

Prices and options will vary a lot, depending on what area of Brazil you are visiting and what time of the year you are visiting. But the good news is that because of the exchange rate, the prices will be very affordable when converted.

I have selected 3 options for the most popular accommodation options in Brazil, and I recommend booking using Booking.com because it is a reliable source and also, there is free cancelation policy:

The capital of Nepal is a typical busy city, with pollution and traffic. But still, a fascinating place to visit including the Boudha Stupa, Asan Market, and Swayambhunath.

What is the Best time to Visit Brazil?

Brazil is one of the few destinations on Earth that is warm year-round. Because of its tropical landscapes, there are several climatic extremes, though none of which are too extreme to deter travelers.

Winter in Brazil lasts from May to September . No matter where in Brazil you are visiting, temperatures won’t drop below 60 F. It’s one of the best times to go sightseeing and hiking in cities like Rio, thanks to plenty of sunshine and cooler temps.

During the spring and summer (November to March) , temperatures can get up to 120 F so be sure to stack on a whole lot of sunscreen and prepare for some humidity.

Around February and March is when it happens the largest party on the Planet: Carnival!

What is the Weather in Brazil?

The summer months are from December to March and winter is from June to September

Because of the size of Brazil, the country is broken into different climate areas. Check here for the weather in Brazil.

The south of Brazil is the coldest part, with winters that can even be seeing some snowflakes.
The North of Brazil , where you can find the Amazon forest, is always hot with temperatures climbing up to 100F (40C).
The coastal areas in Brazil – If you are visiting the coastal areas, the weather is warm most of the year, with temperatures higher than 77F (25C).

Planning a Trip to Brazil: Safety

Let’s start with a million-dollar question. Every time I engage in a conversation with someone, I am asked this question: “Is it safe to travel to Brazil?”

Safety is a big concern for Brazilians. Drug gangs control certain territories, police corruption is not uncommon, and if you are not aware, you could become a victim of theft or pickpocketing.

With that being said, Brazil is not a dangerous place, and every year millions of people visit Brazil and it is not a reason you should avoid a trip to Brazil, just follow some basics suggested safety tips:

Backpack Travel Anti Theft with USB Charging Port

To keep your belongings safe during your travels, I recommend this anti-theft backpack. The hidden theft-proof pocket designed on the back sits up against the wearer’s body. Anti-Pickpocket back pocket is difficult to steal personal items. It fits my 15.6” laptop with a bit to spare.

What is the food in Brazil?

Maybe you are already family with the Brazilian steakhouse. Yes, steak is very popular in Brazil, it seems that every weekend you will have at least 2 invites for a churrasco (barbecue) at your family or friend’s house.

A churrasco usually includes sausages and several different cuts of meat, grilled over hardwood charcoal, sliced to bite-size pieces, and eaten hot off the cutting board.

In addition to churrasco , there are many other delicious Brazilian foods to experiment with:

Açai: Antioxidant super fruit gaining popularity outside of Brazil – açaí bowls are very popular
Pão de Queijo: They are getting very popular in the US, they are the heaven version of cheese bread.
Cachorro Quente: It is the Brazilian version of hot dog, it is another level
Moqueca: Anyone who tries it, falls in love. Fresh fish cooked in coconut milk
Brazilian Pizza: My vote goes to the Brazilian pizza. Want to know the difference between Brazilian and American pizza?
Feijoada: Brazilian comfort food, which is a slow-cooked black bean, beef, and pork stew served with rice – a truly must try the traditional dish, that every time I cook it and invite my friends to try, they leave asking me for the secret recipe.
Brigadeiro: Sweet like a bonbon and extremely scrumptious and delicious
Creme de papaya: a perfect ending to a big meal, papaya helps digestion.
Caipirinha: It is the Bazilian popular drink. Strong is the definition, made by sugar cane, sugar, lime, and ice.
Guaraná: the Brazilian soda – loaded with caffeine from the guaraná plant

What to Pack for a Trip to Brazil?

I recommend packing light, and if you forget anything, buy it there. Brazil makes very good quality clothes and shoes and the prices are really good.

The packing will depend on what area of Brazil you are planning to visit, and what time of the year. But in general comfortable, light and colorful clothes are the best option. Some MUST PACK items are:

Colorful casual clothing: tank top, t-shirts, shorts, skirts,
Summer dresses
A pair of jean
Shawal – is always a great item for the cooler evening
A light rain jacket
a pair of Havaianas
Bikini/ bathing suit
Hat, sunblock, sunglasses
Dress shoes/ sandals – to go out at night
Long sleeve shirt/ nice dress – to go out at night
1 pair of sneakers
LifeStraw water bottle with a purifier
socks/ underwear
A day backpack
Universal charger/ adaptor

PACK SMART ALERT!

If you are planning to carry a backpack for your trip to Brazil, I have compiled a very detailed review of the Best Backpacks for Travel in the market today – Also, it doesn’t matter if it is summer or winter, it is always smart to carry a jacket with you, so check my complete review guide on the Top Jackets for Travel and pack smart!

Pack Light & Smart when you Travel to Brazil

Here is one of the most important Brazil travel tips to keep in mind. I recommend packing in a backpack if you are planning to travel around Brazil. Consider that you will be traveling from point A to point B on public transportation. Or even if you fly, it is easier to just have a carry-on item with you. Pack light and smart is always my rule of thumb!

I love traveling with my Osprey Backpack , and if you are taking a backpack, I recommend rolling your clothes and using small packing cubes separated by categories (pants, tops, socks…), so you don’t need to empty the backpack every time when you are trying to reach to the items you need. Here are the best backpacks for travel that I recommend:

Osprey Talon 20 Liters

It doesn’t matter if you are traveling with luggage or a backpack, the fact is that you will need a day pack for Vietnam ! This is the backpack that I use and recommend because you can fit a lot, keep everything organized and it is super comfortable to carry around for hours.

Osprey Levity 45 Liters

This is an ultralight backpack specially designed for minimalist travelers who are particular about light and smart packing. Made with breathable fabric and enough pockets for proper pack organization. It is a great backpack for hiking because it is light and very comfortable to carry.

Osprey Atmos 65 Liters

This is the backpack I have been using for many years now and they are amazing! I love the anti-gravity system and it really works wonders, plus it has ventilated suspended mesh back panel and adjustable torso length and straps to ensure carrying comfort.

Photography Gear in Brazil

We all know that Brazil is a very unique and magical place. It is impossible to not take many pictures and want to capture the amazing moments while traveling around Brazil.

Therefore, do not forget to bring your camera equipment with you:

This is the camera I use and love – Sony Mirrorless a7III
Bring a couple of good lenses for different pictures – I always carry this lens with me
Extra memory cards
I recommend bringing some filters
Tripod to photograph the waterfalls and depending on the time of the year, the Aurora Borealis.
If you want to capture amazing videos, I use and recommend a Gimble Smartphone Stabilizer
I also recommend a GoPro HERO9 for some action images videos and pictures.
You can also capture incredible Drone images in Iceland. I use DJI Mavic Air 2

7-Steps for a well-planned trip to Brazil

CHOOSE A LOCATION TO VISIT: Start by checking other itineraries and tips that I have prepared, as I am providing the best information for you to plan an independent trip to Brazil on my BRAZILTRAVEL GUIDE .
BUY A GUIDE BOOK: An excellent guidebook that I recommend is Lonely Planet Brazil Guidebook , as it has tons of great information on main attractions, places to stay, and many curiosities about Brazilian culture.
BOOK YOUR FLIGHT: There are great options to fly direct to Brazil to the major airports of the country. Book in advance to try to get a better deal. The flights are approx. 6-8 hours. The best way to start your South America backpacking route is to fly to a large city.
BOOK YOUR ACCOMMODATION IN ADVANCE: Brazil has great options for accommodations, but make sure you book in advance to take advantage of the best prices and best options. I recommend Booking.com as it has a great policy of free cancelation.
START PACKING: It will depend on each area of Brazil you will visit to pack accordingly. Check my recommended packing list and my expert review on the Best Backpacks for Travel here.
BE A RESPONSIBLE TRAVELER: Responsible and Ethical traveling is REALLY IMPORTANT. Check my complete guide
BOOK ANY TOUR IN ADVANCE: There are great options for group or VIP tours in Brazil, just make sure you check the many options and book in advance. Check here for options or check some options for you below:

Planning a Trip to Brazil Conclusion

Brazil is a very large country, and you will need to plan accordingly before your visit. Preplanning, researching, and understanding what you are looking for will help make your travels far more successful and safe.

Make sure you have the places you want to visit highlighted. Brazil offers everything from large cities to the Amazon Rainforest to stunning beaches. You can visit my Travel Planning and print the easy 10-steps to plan an international trip.

Follow + Share

If you found this guide useful, follow me on Instagram to stay up to date with my travels & Subscribe to my YouTube Channel to keep you with my workout videos.

I would love it if you could follow me on Pinterest and share this guide on my social media.

Plan your Trip

You can plan your trip with this easy guide and have access to the best services I recommend and you can get discounted prices.

What to do in Bonito Brazil: The Natural Aquatic Playground (Local Guide)

Jalapao Brazil: Travel Guide + Itinerary to Discover the Hidden Eco Paradise

Experience Petropolis, Brazil: Your Ultimate Travel Guide by a Local

51 thoughts on “ultimate guide to planning a perfect trip to brazil: expert tips from a local”.

Great Post Paula and a perfect place for me to start. Thank you ?

I’ve always wanted to go to Brazil, but got lost in the vastness. This is so helpful, thank you!

Nice post Paula. I have always loved Brazil since childhood – from their football! 🙂 Someday I would like to visit the Amazon rainforest and the Iguazu falls in this large diverse country. Do you plan to write about these destinations?

I am so happy you liked my post and that you loved Brazil. Yes, I am planning to cover every special corner of the country on my blog and planning to write about Amazon and Iguaçu also. I saw you have some great content on Peru and I cannot wait to go back and explore more, I will be using your blog for reference.

It is hard to pick a destination when you are going to a big country. There is so much to explore in Brazil. My recommendation is start with São Paulo and/or Rio de Janeiro e explore the surrounding. You should go with me sometime 😉

Thank you! I am excited to continue to write about Brazil, and hopefully you will be there soon too. You will love it!

What a great article Paula! A great resource to demystify a lot of the misconceptions about Brazil and encourage travelers to visit our beautiful country. Also thanks for linking to my article about the difference between Brazilian vs American pizza. ? As “Brazileiras” we know which one will always win. Hehehe ?

One of these days I will visit this beautiful country!! The food looks amazing. Pinning for future reference!

Adorei o texto e o contexto…muito útil para amantes viajantes!!!! Nosso lindo país vale a pena ser visitado, experimentado, com tanta diversidade, fauna exótica, praias de tirar o fôlego, montanhas cheias de charme e tranquilidade, você certamente encontrará vários países dentro de um só. Aproveitem e pesquisem sobre Rio Grande do Sul, especialmente Gramado e Canela, Pantanal Mato Grossense, Nordeste e seus encantos, nossa culinária que é um grande patrimônio. Paula parabéns por este post completo e maravilhoso.

Obrigada Patricia – sim, o Brasil tem vários países dentro de um só, e com um lugares tão unicos e incriveis para visitar.

For the first time I want to visit Brazil. Thanks for the interesting review.

Really a complete guide!

Thanks for all the useful tips! I’ve been to Brasil once, and I’m definitely coming back one day!

Brazil is absolutely one of my favourite countries in the world. I’ve been 3 times, but still have so much to see. I haven’t been for nearly 15 years, so I’m definitely due a return visit!

I’ve only been to a few places in Brazil and I fell in love with it 🙂 This guide will be very helpful when I plan my next trip 🙂 Thanks!

This post comes to me just in time as I am actually planning my trip to South America next year! I was a bit concerned about travelling safely in Brazil, and luckily found lots of useful tips from your post. Thank you!

I loved Brazil but sadly could only stay for 2 days! I need to go back and see more places there for sure, and will definitely keep this comprehensive guide handy! Thank you! 🙂

This is such an amazing and comprehensive post about Brazil! I will definitely be saving this for when I go in the future!

Such a great post! Would love to visit Brazil!

I last went to South America in 2009 but have never been to Brazil so it’s always been on my bucket list. I’ve recently been watching Race Around the World so now I’ve moved it right at the top. I really want to go and photograph animals in the Pantanal. So this is a really great overview for a beginner like me!

You will absolutely LOVE Brazil. I have been in Pantanal twice and I was planning to go back this year again. Whenever you want to go, just let me know, maybe we can go together! Pantanal is so unique from any other place in the Planet.

Thanks Tyra. I hope you get to visit Brazil, it is so diverse and there is so much to explore.

I am so happy to hear you like it Marisa. I hope you get to visit Brazil one day, you will love it and see how diverse this amazing country is.

Only 2 days! Girl, you need to go back and with the photography skills you have, you will have the best time of your life just photographing and exploring this amazing country. Thanks for stopping by.

I am so glad to hear that this guide was helpful for you Fiona. Yes, it is a good start, Brazil is so big and so diverse. Let me know when you are getting ready and if I can help you with your plans.

Hi Or, I am so glad you found this guide helpful. Brazil need to be explored on many trips. I am from Brazil and I still haven’t explored half of this vast country.

Time to go back again Deborah 🙂 and really makes me so happy that you love Brazil. There is so much to do and so many places to visit. It is so awesome you have been 3 times and love it!

Thanks Mal, and I am so glad you have visited and enjoyed Brasil. Actually I read your blog about Brazil and make me so happy to see that you are helping to promote my beautiful home country.

Thanks for the guide! I have a colleague who lives in Brazil, and I would love to go visit! Your photos of the fresh fruit are calling my name. Also, love the link to the Brazilian pizza 101 article. Yummm!

It’s my dream to participate in Carnival in Brazil haha I love the costumes so much. Also really want to go to the Amazon and Iguazu falls. But like you said, they are so far from each other. Might have to be more than one trip 😛 These are such great tips! Always love hearing from someone from the country.

I went to Recife for two weeks this year. You are right, not many people speak English, it was a hurdle we had to get over. But the FOOD! Wow! a lot of the stuff we ate was regional (not even on your list!) and it was all SO good!

The size of Brazil has always been so intimidating to me – I’ve never known where to start. Thank you for simplifying the top points, especially the key areas to visit. I hope to make it to at least one of them some day.

What a comprehensive guide, and i love the mention on being a responsible traveler! I have to say its one of my dream destinations, but the safety aspect has always concerned me! Thank you for sharing it Paula!

This is such a helpful guide, thanks so much for putting this together! I’m hoping to visit Brazil when we can travel again, so this is great!

Hi Emma, I am so glad you enjoyed this guide. I hope so too that you get to travel to Brazil one day, you will love it.

hi Tia, I am so glad you found my guide helpful. I agree with you about the safety aspects, but during my last trip to Rio last year, I was as a solo and I felt really safe and enjoyed the beauty of this incredible city.

Thanks for your feedback, Katie. I hear that a lot, that people don’t even know where to start because Brazil is so big. If you evern decide to go, reach out to me and I will be happy to help you with some ideas of places to visit.

Amy, I am so happy to hear you visited Recife and loved it. Yes, Brazil is very diverse and each region has it’s own accent, food, culture…In order to explore all the amazing food, someone would need to spend at least a year traveling around the country. The food is really amazing!

I am so glad o hear you like this article Viola. I also have the Amazon on my bucket list, I haven’t been yet and I cannot wait to visit. You will love Brazil! Maybe we can go together one day 🙂

Brazil is very high on my bucket list. I love how vast and diverse the country is. Thank you for this great guide. Definitely will keep it handy for when I plan my future travels to Brazil. 🙂

Thanks for sharing such useful information .hope to visit Brazil someday

What an incredibly helpful guide. I especially loved the section on safety as well as suggestions for what to pack. As always, your pictures are stunning! I just pinned for future inspiration 🙂

Oh wow! i really want to visit one day! looks so stunning!

I really hope you get to visit Brazil one day, you will love it.

I am so glad you enjoyed this guide, Elena. Thank you so much!

I hope you get to visit Brazil someday too, you will love it.

Oh Taylor, you will fall in love with Brazil. I am so glad you found this guide helpful

Paula, nice blog. I’m heading to Brazil in 10 days for a 2 month trip. How do you deal with your camera equipment when passing through customs? I’m a wildlife photographer so I will be taking a camera body and several large lenses. For non-resident travellers, it appears that camera equipment over $500 dollars must be declared on the customs form.

Hi Shane, I am glad you found my blog and enjoyed it. That is a great question, and I always traveled to Brazil with a lot of electronics – 2 laptops (personal and work), 2 cell phones (personal and work), and my camera gears (lots of lenses, filters, etc.) and I never declared anything as they are all my personal items. Where are you planning to travel to, Guarulhos (GRU in Sao Paulo)? or any other city? It will depend on when you are traveling, but my experience is that if you are traveling to GRU you won’t have any issues if you are only carrying your personal electronic items.

so great infos thanks very much, also try this out ” atm fee saver” app, i just used it while travelling. its shows atm around with the lowest fees for withdrawing money. i always struggle to find good atms or i dont know how much i can withdraw, it has all the infos so i can totally recommend it 🙂

Hi Anni – this is a very good information, thanks so much. I will download it and use it myself too.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Cookies on GOV.UK

We use some essential cookies to make this website work.

We’d like to set additional cookies to understand how you use GOV.UK, remember your settings and improve government services.

We also use cookies set by other sites to help us deliver content from their services.

You have accepted additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

You have rejected additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

Passports, travel and living abroad
Travel abroad
Foreign travel advice

Safety and security

This guide also has safety advice for regions of Brazil .

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. You should remain vigilant at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad .

Terrorism in Brazil

Terrorist attacks in Brazil cannot be ruled out.

Protests and civil unrest

Protests, demonstrations and strikes take place regularly in cities across Brazil, with reports of arrests and clashes between police and protesters. They can disrupt transport. Even peaceful events can sometimes turn confrontational and escalate into violence. Police have used rubber bullets and tear gas extensively to disperse protesters. The effects of tear gas can be felt several hundred metres beyond the immediate site of demonstrations.

You should:

avoid political rallies or other events where crowds have congregated to protest
follow local news reports
comply with the instructions of local authorities

If you encounter a political protest or feel uncomfortable in a large gathering, leave the area immediately.

Favelas (‘slum’ or ‘shanty town’) are urban neighbourhoods of high-density informal housing. They exist in all major Brazilian cities and can border areas used by tourists and visitors.

The security situation in many favelas is unpredictable. Visiting a favela can be dangerous. Avoid all favelas, including favela tours marketed to tourists and any accommodation, restaurants or bars advertised as being within a favela.

make sure the suggested route does not take you into a favela if you’re using GPS navigation
avoid entering unpaved, cobbled or narrow streets which may lead into a favela - tourists have been shot after accidentally entering favelas

If you’re unsure about a location, check with your hotel or the local authorities.

Carnival and other large-scale celebrations

If you are attending a large-scale celebration in Brazil, such as the Carnival in Rio de Janeiro or other major cities, be aware that criminals target people who appear to be wealthy or easy targets, for example, those who have drunk a lot of alcohol.

Be aware of your personal security and surroundings, and be cautious about proposals from strangers that take you away from public areas.

If you’re the victim of crime, contact the local police number 190 or the nearest British embassy or consulate.

Read our guidance if you’re the victim of a crime abroad .

Pickpocketing is common. Do not go on to city beaches after dark.

If threatened, hand over your valuables without resistance. Attackers may be armed and under the influence of drugs. Do not resist attackers – this increases the risk of harm to you.

You can take steps to reduce the risk to yourself and your belongings, including:

avoiding wearing expensive jewellery and watches
avoiding carrying large sums of money – consider wearing a money belt
avoiding using a mobile phone in the street
keeping cameras out of sight when not in use
leaving your passport and valuables in a safe place, but carry a copy of your passport and another form of photo ID, if you have one, at all times

Thefts are particularly common on public beaches and include ‘arrastões’ where large groups of thieves sometimes run through an area of the beach grabbing possessions. Keep your belongings close and avoid taking valuables to the beach.

Robberies on buses are common in many cities. Thieves target mobile phones, particularly between 4pm and 9pm.

Bank and credit card scams are common, including card cloning from ATMs and in shops. Keep sight of your card and do not use an ATM if you notice anything suspicious.

If you withdraw cash at an ATM and the cash has pink marks on it, speak to the bank (or police) straight away to get it changed. It may have been marked as damaged or counterfeit.

Sexual assault and drink spiking

Rape and other sexual offences against tourists are not common, but there have been attacks against both women and men. Some have involved date rape drugs. Buy your own drinks and keep them in sight.

If you begin to feel strange, sick or drunk after only a couple of drinks, tell a trusted friend or security staff. They should take you to a safe place, such as your hotel room or a hospital. You can phone the local police, a hospital or the nearest British embassy or consulate for advice.

Read our advice on what to do if you have been raped, sexually assaulted or drugged abroad .

Child sexual abuse

There are widespread cases of sexual abuse of children in Brazil. All sexual activity with children (persons under the age of 18) is illegal, regardless of the age of consent locally. If you commit sex offences against children abroad, you can be prosecuted in the UK.

Parental child abduction

Parental child abduction is not common but can happen in Brazil. Dial 190 to report a missing child or go to the nearest police station. Read the guidance on international parental child abduction if your child may be at risk of this.

Theft from cars is common. Keep valuables out of sight.

Carjacking can happen, particularly on major roads and in tunnels. To reduce your risk you should:

approach your car with your keys in your hand so you can get into your car quickly
keep doors locked and windows closed
take particular care at traffic lights
drive in the middle lane if possible
avoid deserted or poorly lit areas, unless you have reliable local advice
be cautious of people approaching to ask for information, especially at night
If driving at night outside the city, avoid stopping at the roadside – if you must stop, try to stop in a petrol station or well-lit area

Laws and cultural differences

Illegal drugs and trafficking scams.

Drug trafficking is widespread in Brazil and the penalties are severe. The penalties for possessing drugs for personal use range from educational classes to community service.

British nationals have been targeted through email scams where fraudsters offer a financial reward for travelling to Brazil, where they are then asked to carry items out of Brazil, including to the UK. These items are often illegal drugs. Anyone caught will face detention for drug trafficking, regardless of the circumstances.

LGBT+ travellers

There is no legislation against homosexuality in Brazil. Same-sex marriage is legal and LGBT+ couples have equal rights in law.

São Paulo holds the world’s largest Pride celebration, which is usually very peaceful. Violence at the event is rare. Pride in Rio de Janeiro and other cities also attracts large numbers.

Brazil is generally tolerant. However, Brazilian society is quite conservative, particularly outside the larger towns and cities. Violence against LGBT+ people is a concern. Instances of discrimination, violence and harassment against the community have been reported. Factors contributing to these concerns include societal attitudes, cultural influences and the presence of conservative perspectives. Urban areas can be more accepting.

Outdoor activities and adventure tourism

Swimming safety.

Strong currents can be a danger off some beaches. Get local advice before going in the water. Pay attention to warning flags and the location of lifeguards if present on the beach.

Shark attacks are a danger, particularly on the beaches around Recife in north-east Brazil. Pay attention to warning signs and consult lifeguards if unsure. Do not enter the water if there are warning signs. Sharks have been known to attack in waist-deep water and deaths have occurred.

See water safety on holiday from the Royal Life Saving Society.

Transport risks

Road travel.

You can use a UK photocard driving licence to drive in Brazil. If you still have a paper driving licence, you may need to update it to a photocard licence or get the 1968 version of the international driving permit ( IDP ) as well. An IDP is recommended. After 180 days, you need to apply for a Brazilian driving licence.

Driving standards

Brazil has a high road accident rate. Driving standards are poor. Take care on the roads and avoid riding bicycles. In many rural areas, roads are in poor condition away from the main highways. Bus and coach crashes are frequent.

Immediately report all accidents involving personal injury to the police: call 190 or file a report at a police station. Also call the police if the vehicles are obstructing traffic and you need help.

You can report an accident:

at the nearest police station
to the tourist police (DEAT)

Drink-driving

Drink-driving is a serious offence in Brazil and checkpoints are often set up. If you’re caught driving under the influence of alcohol, you will be prosecuted. Penalties range from fines and a suspension from driving for 12 months, to up to 3 years in prison.

Allow plenty of time to arrive at the airport for your flight. Traffic in the main cities, especially São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, can be very heavy.

If you have been a victim of a passport theft and you need to fly to Brasilia, São Paulo or Rio de Janeiro for consular services, you can travel on domestic flights with a valid photo ID or a police report.

Check whether your tour operator has concerns about airlines in Brazil.

There have been armed and unarmed attacks on merchant vessels, including British flag vessels off the Brazilian coast and in some Brazilian ports.

Rail travel

There is a limited railway infrastructure in Brazil, and there have been safety incidents on the rail network.

Extreme weather and natural disasters

Heavy rainfall .

The rainy season runs from November until March in the south and south-east (including Rio de Janeiro – see Regional risks ) and from April until July in the north-east of Brazil.

Heavy rains often disrupt infrastructure, particularly in rural areas. Flash floods and landslides, especially in poorer urban areas, are common during heavy rains. Monitor local media and follow any instructions given by the local authorities.

Forest fires

Forest fires are common from May to September, especially during July and August due to the arrival of dry season. They are highly dangerous and unpredictable. Check the latest alerts and weather forecast (in Portuguese) and follow advice of local authorities if you’re considering travelling to affected areas.

Help us improve GOV.UK

Don’t include personal or financial information like your National Insurance number or credit card details.

To help us improve GOV.UK, we’d like to know more about your visit today. We’ll send you a link to a feedback form. It will take only 2 minutes to fill in. Don’t worry we won’t send you spam or share your email address with anyone.

Update April 12, 2024

Information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

Travel Advisories |
Contact Us |
MyTravelGov |

Find U.S. Embassies & Consulates

Travel.state.gov, congressional liaison, special issuance agency, u.s. passports, international travel, intercountry adoption, international parental child abduction, records and authentications, popular links, travel advisories, mytravelgov, stay connected, legal resources, legal information, info for u.s. law enforcement, replace or certify documents.

Before You Go

Learn About Your Destination

While Abroad

Emergencies

Share this page:

Travel Advisory October 19, 2023

Brazil - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with updates to Country Summary.

Exercise increased caution in Brazil due to crime . Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Do not travel to:

Any areas within 150 km/100 miles of Brazil’s land borders with Venezuela, Colombia, Peru, Bolivia, Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana, and Paraguay due to crime . (Note: This does not apply to the Foz do Iguacu National Park or Pantanal National Park.)
Informal housing developments (commonly referred to in Brazil as favelas, vilas, comunidades, and/or conglomerados) at any time of day due to crime (see additional information below).
Brasilia’s administrative regions (commonly known as “satellite cities”) of Ceilandia, Santa Maria, Sao Sebastiao, and Paranoa during non-daylight hours due to crime (see additional information below).

Country Summary: Violent crime, such as murder, armed robbery, and carjacking, is common in urban areas, day and night. Gang activity and organized crime is widespread. Assaults, including with sedatives and drugs placed in drinks, are common. U.S. government personnel are discouraged from using municipal buses in all parts of Brazil due to an elevated risk of robbery and assault at any time of day, and especially at night.

If you decide to travel to Brazil:

Be aware of your surroundings.
Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
Do not accept food or drinks from strangers.
Use caution when walking or driving at night.
Avoid going to bars or nightclubs alone.
Avoid walking on beaches after dark.
Do not display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches or jewelry.
Be extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs.
Use caution at, or going to, major transportation centers or on public transportation, especially at night. Passengers face an elevated risk of robbery or assault using public, municipal bus transportation throughout Brazil.
Use increased caution when hiking in isolated areas.
Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter .
Review the Country Security Report for Brazil.
Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist .
Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.

International Borders – Level 4: Do Not Travel

U.S. government personnel are not permitted to travel to areas within 150 km/100 miles of the international land borders with Venezuela, Colombia, Peru, Bolivia, Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana, and Paraguay without advance approval from security officials due to crime. Travel to the Foz do Iguacu National Park and Pantanal National Park is permitted.

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas .

Informal Housing Developments (commonly known as “Favelas”) – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Do not travel to informal housing developments (commonly referred to in Brazil as favelas, vilas, comunidades, and/or conglomerados), even on a guided tour.  Neither the tour companies nor the police can guarantee your safety when entering these communities.  Even in these communities that the police or local governments deem safe, the situation can change quickly and without notice.  While some informal housing developments have clear boundaries or gates, or even names such as “favela”, “vila”, “comunidade”, or “conglomerado”, other such developments may be less obvious, and may be identified by crowded quarters, poorer conditions, and/or irregular construction.  In addition, exercise caution in areas surrounding these communities, as occasionally, inter-gang fighting and confrontations with police move beyond the confines of these communities.  Except under limited circumstances and with advance approval, U.S. government personnel are not permitted to enter any informal housing developments in Brazil. Read the Safety and Security Section on the  country information page  and consult the maps on the Embassy’s website for further information regarding favelas.

Visit our website for Travel High-Risk Areas .

Brasilia’s Administrative Regions (commonly known as “Satellite Cities”) – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Without advance approval from security officials, U.S. government personnel are not permitted to travel to Brasilia’s Administrative Regions of Ceilandia, Santa Maria, Sao Sebastiao, and Paranoa between the hours of 6:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. (non-daylight hours) due to crime.

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

Must be valid on the date of entry

One page required for entry stamp

Yes, beginning April 10, 2025

None required, but see Health section

More than 10,000 BR must be declared to Customs

Embassies and Consulates

U.S. Embassy Brasilia SES 801- Avenida das Nacoes, Lote 03 70403-900 - Brasilia, DF Brazil Telephone: 011-55-61-3312-7000 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: 011-55-61-3312-7400 Fax: (61) 3312-7651 Email: [email protected]

Embassy Branch Office in Belo Horizonte Avenida do Contorno, 4520 / 2nd floor – Funcionários 30110-028 Belo Horizonte, MG – Brazil Telephone: +55 (31) 3338-4000 E-mail: [email protected] Emergency After-Hours Telephone: Please contact the U.S. Embassy in Brasilia

Consular Agency in Brasilia’s Consular District Manaus Consular Agency Edificio Atrium, Suite 306 Rua Franco de Sá, 310 69.079-210 Manaus, AM Brazil Telephone: 011-55-92-3611-3333 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: Please contact the U.S. Embassy in Brasilia

U.S. Consulate General Porto Alegre Avenida Assis Brasil, 1889 Passo d' Areia 91010-004 - Porto Alegre, RS Brazil Telephone: 011-55-51-3345-6000 Email: [email protected]

U.S. Consulate General Recife Rua Goncalves Maia, 163, Boa Vista 50070-125 - Recife, PE Brazil Telephone: 011-55-81-3416-3050 or 011-55-81-3416-3080 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: 011-55-81-3416-3060 or 011-55-81-9916-9470 Email: [email protected]

Consular Agency in Recife’s Consular District U.S. Consular Agency Fortaleza Avenida Santos Dumont 2828, Aldeota, Suite 708 60150-162- Fortaleza, CE Brazil Telephone: 011-55-85-3223-4902 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: Please contact the U.S. Consulate General in Recife

U.S. Consulate General Rio de Janeiro Avenida Presidente Wilson, 147, Castelo 20030-020, Rio de Janeiro, RJ Brazil Telephone: 011-55-213823-2000 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: 011-55-21-3823-2029 Email: [email protected]

Consular Agency in Rio de Janeiro’s Consular District U.S. Consular Agency Salvador da Bahia Avenida Tancredo Neves, 1632, Caminho das Arvores Salvador Trade Center-Torre Sul, Room 1401 41820-020 - Salvador, Bahia Brazil Telephone: 011-55-71-3113-2090/2091/2092 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: Please contact the U.S. Consulate General in Rio de Janeiro: (21) 3823-2029

U.S. Consulate General Sao Paulo Rua Henri Dunant, 500 Chacara Santo Antonio 04709-110 - Sao Paulo, SP Brazil Telephone: 011-55-11-3250-5000 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: 011-55-11-3250-5373 Email: [email protected]

Destination Description

See the Department of State’s Fact Sheet on Brazil for information on U.S.-Brazil relations.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

There are no COVID-related entry requirements for U.S. citizens.

Effective midnight on April 10, 2025 , a visa will be required for U.S. citizens to travel to Brazil, regardless of the purpose of travel. For more information about visa requirements, visit the Brazilian government-authorized website, https://brazil.vfsevisa.com

You will need:

A valid U.S. passport.
A valid Brazilian visa or e-visa, beginning April 10, 2025 for tourists and currently for all other types of travel.
Visit the Brazilian government-authorized website to obtain your e-visa: https://brazil.vfsevisa.com

Find a Brazilian consulate abroad .

Brazilian law requires any minor who is a Brazilian citizen (even dual nationals who are both U.S. and Brazilian citizens) to have permission from each parent to travel within Brazil or exit the country. When a minor travels with both parents, no written authorization is needed. When the minor travels with only one parent or without either parent, s/he must have two original written authorization letters from each absent parent and carry a copy* of the child’s birth certificate or have an annotation in his/her Brazilian passport authorizing travel alone or with only one parent. Brazilian citizen minors without authorization letters and a birth certificate* or an annotated Brazilian passport likely will not be allowed by authorities to pass through immigration or to board a flight departing Brazil.

The U.S. Embassy and its consulates cannot intervene in Brazilian immigration matters or request that this requirement be waived for U.S. citizen travelers.

Written Authorization Letter: If the absent parent is in Brazil, written authorization letters must be in Portuguese and notarized by a Brazilian notary. If the absent parent is in the United States or elsewhere outside of Brazil, the authorization must be done at the nearest Brazilian Embassy or Consulate using the form provided by that office. Again, please note that Brazilian law requires two original authorizations for each absent parent. This is important, because Federal Police may request and retain one authorization upon the minor’s entry into Brazil. Authorities may then request the second original document upon the minor’s departure. Authorizations written in English or executed before a U.S. (or any non-Brazilian) notary public are not accepted by the Brazilian Federal Police. Similarly, birth certificates issued outside of Brazil that are not apostilled * and translated by a certified translator may not be accepted.

Brazilian Passport Annotation: In lieu of carrying authorization letters, parents of dual U.S.-Brazilian citizen minors may instead request an annotation be placed in the minor’s Brazilian passport authorizing the minor to travel with only one parent, or to travel alone or with a third party. This annotation replaces the requirement for written authorization letters until the passport expires. Parents residing in Brazil should contact the Brazilian Federal Police for details on obtaining an annotated passport. Parents residing abroad should contact the nearest Brazilian Embassy or Consulate. The annotated Brazilian passport must not be expired and must be carried along with the minor’s U.S. passport at all times for Brazilian Federal Police to accept it in lieu of an authorization letter. There is no comparable annotation available in U.S. passports.

Children who are not dual citizens of Brazil: Please note that, while Brazilian law related to travel authorization does not explicitly apply to non-citizens of Brazil, Federal Police have, at times, delayed the travel of non-Brazilian minors who lack appropriate authorization from both parents. For this reason, we recommend that families of non-Brazilian minors who may travel through Brazil without one or both parents execute written authorizations (following the instructions in the preceding paragraph) in advance of travel and ensure that the minor, or the minor’s traveling companion, carries the original or notarized copy** of the minor’s birth certificate.

An exemplar of the form used by Brazilian authorities to document parental permission for minors to travel without one or both parents may be found here.

*There is a useful pamphlet published by the Hague Conference called “ The ABCs of Apostilles .” The Brazilian competent authority that issues apostilles is the Conselho Nacional de Justiça .

**If the birth certificate was issued in Brazil, copies must be notarized by a Brazilian notary. If issued outside of Brazil, copies must be apostilled and translated by a certified translator into Portuguese.

HIV/AIDS Restrictions: The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Brazil.

Find information on dual nationality , prevention of international child abduction , and customs regulations on our websites.

Safety and Security

Crime: The violent crime rate is high in most Brazilian urban centers. Public transportation, hotel sectors, and tourist areas report high crime rates, but these incidents can happen anywhere and at any time. Be aware of your surroundings.

Informal housing developments in Brazil (commonly referred to in Brazil as favelas, vilas, comunidades, and/or satellite cities), even on a guided tour, at any time of day due to crime. Neither the tour companies nor the police can guarantee your safety when entering these areas. Even in favelas that the police or local governments deem safe, the situation can change quickly and without notice. In addition, exercise caution in areas surrounding favelas, as occasionally, inter-gang fighting and confrontations with police move beyond the confines of these communities.
Brasilia’s administrative regions (commonly known as “satellite cities”) of Ceilandia, Santa Maria, Sao Sebastiao, and Paranoa during non-daylight hours due to crime.
Any areas within 150 km of Brazil’s land borders with Venezuela, Colombia, Peru, Bolivia, Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana, and Paraguay due to crime. (Note: This does not apply to the Foz do Iguacu National Park or Pantanal National Park.)
Consider avoiding the use of public, municipal buses in Brazil at any time of day, and especially at night. Crime trends indicate an elevated risk of robbery or assault on public bus systems throughout Brazil. The U.S. government recommends against personnel using public, municipal buses in all parts of Brazil.
Avoid going to bars or nightclubs alone and avoid leaving with strangers.
Before going on a date with someone you met on a dating app, tell a loved one who you are meeting, where you are going, and the details of the dating application account.
Be wary about inviting individuals to your residence. If inviting a new acquaintance to your residence, speak to your door attendant in advance about your invited guest.
Trust your instincts – if something does not feel right or if you suddenly feel ill, walk away from the situation.
If you believe you may have been drugged, seek immediate medical attention. Some people can have life-threatening reactions to these drugs. After that, report the crime to local police and contact us at the numbers listed below.
Traveling Outside Metropolitan Areas After Dark: Travelers are encouraged to organize their trips so that they can travel during daylight hours. Road conditions throughout Brazil can vary widely, and travelers must exercise caution due to debris in the road, horse-drawn carriages, unmarked speed bumps, and other infrastructure deficiencies.
Armed hold-ups of pedestrians and motorists can happen, including at or near public beaches. Personal belongings, left unattended even for a moment, are often taken. If you are robbed, hand over your personal belongings without resisting. Resisting will increase your risk of injury.
Carjackings and hold-ups can occur at any time of the day or night, especially at intersections and in tunnels. Some robberies involve individuals robbed at gunpoint and taken to make purchases or to withdraw as much money as possible from one or more ATMs.
Crime on public transportation occurs. Registered taxis have red license plates and openly display company information and phone numbers.
Credit card fraud and ATM scams are common in Brazil. Work closely with your financial institutions to monitor accounts and keep your credit card in view while it is scanned at a point of sale.
Avoid using ATMs in unfamiliar, secluded, or lightly protected areas. Be aware that criminals often target ATMs and businesses in the early hours of the morning when there are fewer witnesses and law enforcement response times may be delayed. If you opt to use an ATM, select those that are located inside of secure facilities, such as an airport, hospital, bank, or government building.
Avoid openly displaying your cell phone.  When using a ride share service or taxi, wait for its arrival in a secure area.
Avoid large groups or events where crowds have gathered. Public events of any nature, including concerts and sporting events, can unexpectedly turn violent.
Travel to any areas within 150 km of the international borders with Venezuela, Colombia, Peru, Bolivia, Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana, and Paraguay, except in limited circumstances with the appropriate U.S. Department of State approvals. Individuals with ties to illegal criminal networks operate along Brazilian borders. Travel to the Foz do Iguaçu National Park and Pantanal National Park is permitted.
Enter any informal housing developments in Brazil (commonly referred to in Brazil as favelas, vilas, comunidades, and/or satellite cities), except in limited circumstances with the appropriate approvals.
Enter Brasilia’s administrative regions (commonly known as “satellite cities”) of Ceilandia, Santa Maria, Sao Sebastiao, and Paranoa during non-daylight hours.

To reduce the chance of becoming the victim of a crime, in addition to the above recommendations, please review the below precautions:

Limit the personal belongings you carry with you. Carry your money in your front pockets and limit the number of credit cards you carry. Make copies of all of your personal documents – including your credit cards, license, passport, etc. – and keep them in a safe place. This will be helpful if you lose your documents.
Do not carry or wear valuable items that will attract the attention of thieves. If you need to wear expensive jewelry or carry a camera, conceal it until you arrive at your destination.
Be aware of the street environment and avoid contact with those who may be looking for robbery targets. Seek a safer location. Go into a store, bank, or simply cross the street.
Do not walk on beaches after dark. Assaults are common.
Use increased caution when hiking in isolated areas, particularly near popular tourist locations in the city of Rio de Janeiro.

Demonstrations and strikes are common in urban areas, may occur unexpectedly, disrupt transportation, and may escalate into violence.

Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly become violent. 
Avoid areas around protests and demonstrations. 
Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.
Check the website of the Embassy or Consulate nearest you for current information on demonstrations.

International Financial Scams: See the Department of State and the FBI pages for information.

Victims of Crime:

U.S. citizen victims of crime should contact the local authorities to file a Brazilian police report before departing Brazil. In most instances, you can report crimes to the tourist or civil police. U.S. citizens should also inform the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate, but local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting the crime.

Police number - 190
the U.S. Embassy at 011-55-61-3312-7000
the U.S. Consulate General in Porto Alegre at 011-55-51-3345-6000
the U.S. Consulate General in Recife at 011-55-81-3416-3050 or 011-55-81-3416-3080
the U.S. Consulate General in Rio de Janeiro at 011-55-21-3823-2000
the U.S. Consulate General in Sao Paulo at 011-55-11-3250-5000

See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

Replace a lost or stolen passport
Contact relatives or friends with your written consent
Help you find appropriate medical care
Assist you in reporting a crime to the police
Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
Provide information on victims' compensation programs in the U.S .
Provide a list of local lawyers who speak English

The local equivalent to the “911” emergency line in Brazil is divided among four services:

190 - Policia (Police)
191 - Policia Rodoviaria (on interstate roads)
192 - Ambulancia (Ambulance)
193 - Bombeiros (Fire Department)

Victims of Domestic Violence or Sexual Assault: Contact the nearest Embassy or Consulate for assistance after contacting local authorities.

Tourism: The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities are inconsistent. Inquire with property management about the presence and functionality of safety equipment, such as fire alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. Hazardous areas/activities are normally identified with appropriate signage in major urban centers but may not be in other locations. Tourism industry staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field. In the event of an injury, appropriate and timely medical treatment is consistently available only in or near major cities. First responders can face delays accessing areas outside of major cities to quickly provide urgent medical treatment. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.

Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy or Consulate immediately. See our webpage for further information.

Firearms: Brazil forbids importing, exporting, and possessing firearms without prior authorization of the Brazilian Government. U.S. citizens are subject to arrest and prosecution in Brazil for possession of unauthorized firearms or firearm components anywhere in the country, including airports. This prohibition extends to spent shell casings or ammunition, even if inside luggage during transit, regardless of whether those items were legally purchased in the United States or elsewhere.

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods: Although counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries, they may still be illegal according to local laws. You may also pay fines or have to give them up if you bring them back to the United States. See the U.S. Department of Justice website for more information.

Water Hazards: Many of Brazil’s beaches have very dangerous riptides, even if the water looks safe. Ocean currents and waves are unpredictable, even in popular beaches frequented by tourists. Shark attacks are reported in the waters of some beaches in northeastern Brazil, particularly near Recife. Always observe posted warnings and never swim while under the influence of alcohol. Follow local authorities’ guidance and refrain from swimming alone in areas marked with red warning signs or at beaches where there are no municipal lifeguards or first responder services.

Electricity Blackouts: Power failures in large urban centers are common and sometimes followed by increased crime. Most tourist hotels are equipped with generators, minimizing the impact of a blackout, but you should remain cautious.

Natural Disasters: Flooding and mudslides occur throughout the country and can be fatal. Monitor news and weather reports and adhere to municipal advisories before traveling to areas prone to flooding or landslides. Many of Brazil’s larger cities have frequent heavy rainstorms that cause flash flooding and can disrupt traffic.

Customs Restrictions : Contact the Brazilian Embassy in Washington, D.C. or one of Brazil's consulates in the United States for specific information regarding import and export regulations. Please also refer to our information on customs regulations .

Brazilian customs authorities may enforce strict regulations concerning temporarily importing or exporting items such as firearms, antiquities, mineral samples, tropical plants, wildlife, medications, and business and communication equipment.
In the Amazon region, there is special scrutiny of exporting biological material. People raising, growing, or exporting biological materials without permits can be charged with “biopiracy.”

Faith-Based Travelers: See our following webpages for details:

Faith-Based Travel Information
International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
Human Rights Report – see country reports
Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTI Travelers: Brazil does not have legal restrictions on same-sex marriage, relations, or events coordinated by LGBTI organizations. However, according to the 2019 Human Rights Report, violence against lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and intersex (LGBTI) individuals was a serious concern, with local NGOs reporting 297 LGBTI persons were victims of hate killings. See our LGBTI Travel Information page and section 6 of our Human Rights report for further details.

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance: Brazilian law prohibits discrimination against persons with physical and mental disabilities in employment, education, and access to health care. However, accessibility to public transportation and the ability to accommodate the needs of physically disabled persons are limited in most areas.

Students: See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers: See our travel tips for Women Travelers .

COVID-19 Testing: Brazil is a very large, diverse country with varying medical resources, both private and public, throughout the country. Many private labs perform COVID-19 testing at various prices, typically between $20 and $100.  PCR, serology-based antibody tests, and antigen tests are available. Turn-around time varies widely depending upon location. Please verify turn-around time with your chosen lab before taking the test. Express results within 2-4 hours are available in many locations at an increased fee, including in the Guarulhos International Airport in São Paulo and Galeão International Airport in Rio de Janeiro. Testing is available in the private sector without a doctor’s prescription, but a prescription may be required for insurance payment.

In the public healthcare system, each Brazilian state has its own COVID-19 testing plan. We recommend that you contact local/state authorities for more information. Typically, a COVID-19 test is ordered by an emergency room physician and then sent to a public lab. Turnaround time is much slower and can take up to seven days, but tests are generally free. Information on testing sites and procedures is available through the official app of the Ministry of Health.

COVID-19 Vaccines: The COVID-19 vaccine is available for U.S. citizens to receive in Brazil once they register with the public Unified Health System (SUS) . According to the Ministry of Health, available vaccines include AstraZeneca/Oxford (Fiocruz), CoronaVac (Butantan), Janssen (Johnson & Johnson), and Pfizer (BioNTech). For more information on local availability of COVID-19 vaccines, please see the Brazilian Ministry of Health’s website and also contact local health authorities .

For emergency services in Brazil, dial 192.

Ambulance services are not present throughout the country or are unreliable in most areas except in state capitals and other large cities.

We do not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on overseas insurance coverage. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

If traveling with prescription medication, check with the Government of Brazil to ensure the medication is legal in Brazil. Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.

Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Though the yellow fever vaccine is not required to enter Brazil, travelers wishing to be vaccinated should consider receiving it prior to travel, as local supplies are limited. Please note that the yellow fever vaccine should be administered ten days prior to travel for it to be effective.

Also note that, while yellow fever vaccine is not required to enter Brazil, some neighboring countries (French Guiana, Suriname, Guyana, Bolivia, and Paraguay) do require travelers with recent entries in Brazil to show proof of yellow fever vaccination.

All travelers to the country are advised to carry documentation, such as a vaccination card, that they have been appropriately vaccinated for yellow fever.

The following diseases are prevalent in Brazil:

Chikungunya
Leishmaniasis
Travelers' diarrhea
Tuberculosis
Schistosomiasis

In recent years, outbreaks of these diseases have also been detected in certain areas of Brazil:

Yellow fever

Elective Surgery : Although Brazil has many elective/cosmetic surgery facilities that are on par with those found in the United States, the quality of care varies widely. If you plan to undergo surgery in Brazil, make sure that emergency medical facilities are available and professionals are accredited and qualified. Some “boutique” plastic surgery operations offer luxurious facilities but are not hospitals and are unable to handle emergencies.

Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for information on Medical Tourism, the risks of medical tourism, and what you can do to prepare before traveling to Brazil.

Non-traditional Medicine: Several U.S. citizens have died while seeking medical care from non-traditional “healers” and practitioners in Brazil. Ensure you have access to licensed emergency medical facilities if seeking such services.

Further health information:

World Health Organization
U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Travel and Transportation

Public Transportation: Consider avoiding the use of public, municipal buses in Brazil at any time of day, and especially at night. Crime trends indicate an elevated risk of robbery or assault on public bus systems throughout Brazil. The U.S. government recommends against personnel using public, municipal buses in all parts of Brazil.

Public buses are one of the main modes of inter-city road travel. Buses can range (depending on route and price) from luxurious and well-maintained to basic and mechanically unsound. Bus hijacking can occur at random.

Road Conditions and Safety: Driving on Brazil's roads poses significant risks. Poor driving skills, bad roads, and high-density traffic make road travel more hazardous than in the United States. Road maintenance is inadequate in many areas and some long-distance roads through the Amazon forest are impassable much of the year due to flooding.

Apart from toll roads, which generally have their own services, roadside assistance is available only sporadically and informally through local mechanics. The fastest way to summon assistance in an emergency anywhere in the country is to dial 193, a universal number staffed by local fire departments. This service is in Portuguese only.

Traffic Laws: Travelers planning on staying for more than 180 days should obtain an Inter-American Driving Permit to carry with their valid U.S. license if they plan to drive in Brazil. Such permits can be obtained through AAA or other sources. Please note:

Everyone in the vehicle must wear a seatbelt. Brazilian federal law requires child seats for all children under the age of 7 ½. From age 7 ½ years to 10, children must only ride in the back seat.
Drivers must yield the right of way to cars on their right. Compliance with stop signs is rarely enforced, so many motorists treat them as yield signs. It is common for drivers to turn or cross one or more lanes of traffic without warning.
Drivers often flash their lights or wave their hand out the window to signal other drivers to slow down.
Pedestrian crossings are only observed in some places, such as Brasilia.
Drivers must have their daytime running lights on during the day and headlights on at night on Federal Highways.
Under Brazil’s Lei Seca (“Dry Law”), you cannot operate a vehicle with any measurable blood-alcohol level. Checkpoints are often set up in urban areas, and randomly chosen drivers are required to perform a breathalyzer test. Those in violation are subject to legal penalties and having their vehicle impounded.

See our Road Safety page for more information. Visit the website of Brazil’s national tourist office and national authority responsible for road safety .

Aviation Safety Oversight: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of Brazil’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Brazil’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to Brazil should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts .  Information may also be posted to the  U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the NGA broadcast warnings .

For additional travel information

Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
See the State Department’s travel website for the Worldwide Caution and Travel Advisories .
Follow us on Twitter and Facebook .
See traveling safely abroad for useful travel tips.

Brazil was cited in the State Department’s 2022 Annual Report to Congress on International Child Abduction for demonstrating a pattern of non-compliance with respect to international parental child abduction. Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Brazil . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

Travel Advisory Levels

Assistance for u.s. citizens, learn about your destination, enroll in step.

Subscribe to get up-to-date safety and security information and help us reach you in an emergency abroad.

Recommended Web Browsers: Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome.

Make two copies of all of your travel documents in case of emergency, and leave one with a trusted friend or relative.

Afghanistan

Antigua and Barbuda

Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba

Bosnia and Herzegovina

British Virgin Islands

Burkina Faso

Burma (Myanmar)

Cayman Islands

Central African Republic

Cote d Ivoire

Curaçao

Czech Republic

Democratic Republic of the Congo

Dominican Republic

El Salvador

Equatorial Guinea

Eswatini (Swaziland)

Falkland Islands

France (includes Monaco)

French Guiana

French Polynesia

French West Indies

Guadeloupe, Martinique, Saint Martin, and Saint Barthélemy (French West Indies)

Guinea-Bissau

Isle of Man

Israel, The West Bank and Gaza

Liechtenstein

Marshall Islands

Netherlands

New Caledonia

New Zealand

North Korea (Democratic People's Republic of Korea)

Papua New Guinea

Philippines

Republic of North Macedonia

Republic of the Congo

Saint Kitts and Nevis

Saint Lucia

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Sao Tome and Principe

Saudi Arabia

Sierra Leone

Sint Maarten

Solomon Islands

South Africa

South Korea

South Sudan

Switzerland

The Bahamas

Timor-Leste

Trinidad and Tobago

Turkmenistan

Turks and Caicos Islands

United Arab Emirates

United Kingdom

Vatican City (Holy See)

External Link

You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.

Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

You are about to visit:

Compare Flights & Hotels via TRAVELDESCRIBE
Find Cheap Flights via Skyscanner
Find Hotels via Booking.com
Find Hostels via Hostelworld
Rent a Car via Discover Cars
Find Trains & Buses via Omio
Book taxi Transfers via KiwiTaxi
Find Things to Do via Viator
Find Ticket Deals via GetYourGuide
Find Travel Insurance via Insubuy
Destinations
Places to Go
Things to Do in 2024
Deals & Discounts
North America
South America
Cheap Flights in 2024
Top Hotels and Resorts in 2024
In February
In September
In November
In December
World’s Best Places to Visit
Best Countries to Visit in 2024
Travel Tips

Your Complete Travel Guide - Book Cheap Flights & Hotels

Inspiration
Things to Do
Budget Travel

Cheap Flights
Hotels & Resorts
Travel Guides

Transportation in Brazil

PLAN YOUR TRIP

BEST TIME TO VISIT BRAZIL

THINGS TO DO IN BRAZIL

BRAZIL TRAVEL GUIDE

FLIGHTS TO BRAZIL

HOTELS IN BRAZIL

BRAZIL TRANSPORTATION

HOLIDAYS IN BRAZIL

DEALS & DISCOUNTS

THINGS TO SEE

TOURIST ATTRACTIONS

BRAZIL ISLANDS

BRAZIL BEACHES

BRAZIL MOUNTAINS

BRAZIL MORE INFO

WEATHER IN BRAZIL

BRAZIL CURRENCY

AIRLINES & AIRPORTS

The transport system in Brazil is characterized by regional differences and a lack of a national rail network. However, the fast-growing economy of Brazil is placing increasing demands on the transportation system.

There are many rules and regulations when it comes to buses in Brazil. First of all, the Brazilian government has decided that a ticket can be no more expensive than a certain price. This is to ensure that the public does not face any prejudice. Then, there are several rules regarding hygiene, stops, late departure, ticket issues, and more.

Another regulation will make it easier for carriers to operate buses in Brazil . Until now, this has only been possible through concessions. The new regulations allow carriers to operate routes that were previously only accessible through concessions, but will still require them to adhere to maximum prices. The result will be that the Brazilian market will be more competitive.

Brazil has a number of bus companies. Some of the most popular ones include Cometa and 1001. Cometa’s buses range from the conventional model to the Leito Cama, which is equipped with leather chairs that convert into beds. It also has Wi-Fi, snacks, and a blanket for passengers to stay comfortable and relaxed. It is also one of the oldest bus companies in the country.

The railway system of Brazil stretches over 30,000 kilometers in 27 states. However, most of it is dedicated to freight shipments, with passenger transport virtually nonexistent outside urban areas. Despite these difficulties, the government has recently turned its attention back to trains after several years of neglect. A strike by truck drivers in May 2018 highlighted the country’s transport infrastructure crisis.

Brazil has developed a high-speed rail system that can travel at speeds of up to 430 km/h. In addition, the rail infrastructure of Brazil has undergone a privatization process which has led to increased investments in it. It is also possible to ride on high-speed trains that are propelled by magnets.

There are a number of ways to travel in Brazil by train. Buses are a good option for short journeys. Many private companies operate inter-city services. Prices are usually fairly standard. For example, a one-hour journey from Rio to Sao Paulo costs about R$75. There are also metro rail systems in some cities, including Rio, Sao Paulo, and Brasilia. However, there are few trains that are specifically for tourists. Despite this, the railway system is still very good in Brazil. Buses and inter-city services depart from rodoviaria (bus stations) which are typically located on the outskirts of cities.

Car Rentals

Before you rent a car in Brazil, you should know some important facts. For starters, you must be 18 years old or older to drive. Most rental car companies will only rent to people over the age of 21. The following are some tips to help you choose the best rental car in Brazil. You can also make use of a Hotwire Hot Rate car rental service.

Although the car rental industry is relatively young in Brazil, the market is dominated by large rental companies. There are around 11,500 car rental companies in Brazil, most with fleets of fewer than 100 vehicles. Many of these small companies compete in the long-term rental market for commercial customers. This is similar to the fleet leasing market in the U.S. and Western Europe.

When renting a car in Brazil, be sure to present a valid driver’s license and credit card. Some car rental companies do not accept foreign driver’s licenses, so make sure to have a Brazilian license with you. Additionally, a valid passport is recommended.

Using a taxi in Brazil can be an affordable and convenient way to travel around the country. Most taxis in major cities use meters, or relogios, to calculate how much you will have to pay for a ride. You can also pay by phone using apps such as Uber, or you can get a radio taxi if you don’t have a car. In addition, you can negotiate a lower price with the taxi driver by offering him a card with your phone number written on it. The driver can also offer discounts if you make a standing appointment or take longer trips.

Official taxis in Brazil are usually white in color. They cost about BRL 63 to BRL 105, depending on where you’re going. They may not be as luxurious as Uber taxis, but many Brazilians prefer to use them. In addition to being more reliable, they also have more safety features.

Public Transport and Driving in Brazil

There are two main types of road systems in Brazil. Federal highways and state highways. Federal highways run north-south while state highways run from east-west. State highways are divided or undivided. Minor roads are usually unpaved. In general, only 5.5% of the country’s roads are paved. It’s important to know your local road system before going to a foreign country.

Buses are another form of transport in Brazil. Unless you’re going through a particularly remote region, buses will not be very reliable. Even buses with a large number of seats are likely to break down from time to time. The good news is that replacement buses will often be available a short distance away. For the more adventurous, the train system can be a pleasant alternative. But don’t expect smooth sailing in Brazil.

Public transportation is generally low quality, and driving is the best option in most areas of the country. While you’re traveling in Brazil, it’s a good idea to stick to touristy areas. While you can easily navigate the city’s streets and find your hotel with a cab, you might feel uncomfortable driving in unfamiliar areas. Before you decide to drive yourself, you should familiarize yourself with street signs and speed limits, as well as how to get a Brazilian driving license.

Depending on where you’re going, you should make sure that your car is insured. Insurance prices are based on the type of vehicle you drive and where it is located. Generally, you’ll need to pay more if you want to drive a luxury car or one with a higher price tag. Furthermore, modified vehicles are more likely to attract robbers. While driving in Brazil, remember that roads vary from state to state. You’ll find better roads in the south and southeast while the secondary roads are patchy and narrow.

Traffic can be a problem in some parts of Brazil, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the road system. While freeways are generally well-maintained, traffic signs can be scarce. In fact, many roads have no road signs. If you’re unsure of what speed limit is in your area, it’s best to consult a local. However, there are many tips to keep drivers safe when driving in Brazil.

Buses are the most common form of transportation in Brazil. The public bus system in every major city has a stop and is cheap. Though buses can be a little more expensive, you’ll still save a great deal over flying. In addition, buses are more reliable and cheaper than flying. The only downside is that Brazil is so large that it’s not practical to take buses across the country. When traveling in Brazil, be sure to collect information about the area you’re visiting so you can make informed decisions.

Before heading to Brazil, make sure you have a valid driver’s license. The national driver’s license, or IDP, is a document that is required by local traffic enforcers. You can apply for an IDP if you have a valid license card, but if you don’t have one, you’ll have to get a special license. A temporary license card will not be accepted; a valid license card will suffice.

For travelers arriving in Brazil by plane, driving is a practical way to get around the country. While there are a few cities that are better served by train, driving can give you the freedom to explore these places at your own pace. Hiring a car is relatively easy. It’s important to note that driving in a foreign country poses unique challenges, but it’s a good option for exploring nearby cities. So, consider hiring a car in Brazil.

While driving in Brazil is easy, drivers should practice patience and defensive driving before driving in the country. There are certain rules for driving in Brazil, such as wearing high heels, flip-flops, or shirtless while driving. You can also try to practice defensive driving in your car by following road rules and obeying traffic signals. Even if your car is in good shape, it is not guaranteed to be completely safe. In such a situation, you should move it along the road and activate your warning lights to alert the car in front of you. In case of an accident, you should contact a towing service provider.

When traveling to Brazil, it is best to travel during the off-season. The off-season means cheaper plane tickets and travel bus passes. The high season is during the summer, which coincides with year-end school vacations. However, be aware that traffic is heavier and road car accidents are common during this time of the year. It is important to plan your travel plans accordingly. Once you know what mode of transport will suit you best, you can make the right decision.

Map of Brazil

Exclusive Flight & Hotel offers.

Brazil Weather

To be updated with all the latest Travel Guides & News, offers and special announcements.

35 Best Things to Do in Brazil in 2024

Travel Deals in Brazil

Travel to Brazil – The Ultimate Brazil Travel Guide in 2024

A Complete Travel Guide to Liverpool, England in 2024

A Complete Travel Guide to Hydra, Greece in 2024

A Complete Travel Guide to London, England in 2024

With TravelDescribe.com you’ll get low prices and flexible booking options. Search and book now. Never miss a cheap flight or accommodation deal again.

The cheapest flights with the best offers,deals and to get your trip going your own way, you can find them at Aviasales, Trip.com, CheapFly365 and Skyscanner.

If you want to enjoy your stay and feel like home, you can find out exactly what you're looking for at Hostelworld, Booking.com, and Hotellook. You will certain get the best prices for your accommodation.

If you choose to have the best guidance for your trip, then Viator, Get Your Guide and TripAdvisor are what you' re looking for. You will find all the suggestions for activities, food, drinks and entertainment.

A great choice, if you want to be informed and get online tickets for your trip, is Omio, 12Go and KiwiTaxi.

You can trust the Discover Cars for your ideal transportation.

Insubuy is a great choice if you want to get the best insurance for your trip.

It may be difficult to decide which is the best destination for you, but the TravelDescribe will keep you on track. Here's how to make your trip even easier. There are many free online resources that can help you plan your dreamy trip and make the experience more enjoyable. TravelDescribe.com will always keep you up to date about the cheapest flights and hotels in the World. The best travel guide by my experience as a World Traveler.

Cookie Policy
Terms and Conditions
Affiliate Disclaimer
Advertise with Us

Travel to the United States – The Ultimate US Travel Guide in 2024

Travel to Portugal – The Ultimate Portugal Travel Guide in 2024

Travel to Canada – The Ultimate Canada Travel Guide in 2024

Travel to Malaysia – The Ultimate Malaysia Travel Guide in 2024

Travel to the United Kingdom – The Ultimate UK Travel Guide in 2024

Privacy Overview

Search Please fill out this field.
Manage Your Subscription
Give a Gift Subscription
Sweepstakes

U.S. Travelers Won’t Need a Visa to Visit Brazil Just Yet — What to Know

The new visa requirements were most recently set to go into effect on April 10 of this year.

Pintai Suchachaisri/Getty Images

Brazil has postponed its travel visa requirements for American visitors until 2025 just as it was set to go into effect.

The new visa requirements for tourists from the United States, which has been postponed several times and was most recently set to go into effect on April 10 of this year, will now go into effect on April 10, 2025, according to the U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Brazil . A visa will also be required for tourists from Australia and Canada, Visit Rio shared with Travel + Leisure.

"We applaud the government's decision… to delay the visa," Joao H. Rodrigues, the U.S. representative for Visit Rio, said in a statement shared with T+L. "In the first two months of 2024, the arrival of Americans in Brazil was 11% higher than in the same period of the previous year. Without the visa requirement, we expect to maintain the growth in the arrival of foreign tourists from these international markets visiting Brazil and [especially] Rio de Janeiro."

When it does take effect, American travelers will need to obtain an electronic visa to enter the country. The e-visa will cost $80.90 per person and will be valid for 10 years, according to the U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Brazil.

The decision to bring back these visa requirements comes about five years after the country eliminated visa rules for U.S. travelers exploring for up to 90 days.

While Brazil is bringing back visa rules for American travelers next year, several countries are dropping them or making it easier for U.S. tourists to visit. Turkey, for example, dropped visa requirements earlier this year for travelers visiting from both America and Canada. And China made it easier for Americans to visit by eliminating the requirement for U.S. travelers to submit proof of a round-trip air ticket, proof of a hotel reservation, proof of their itinerary, or an invitation letter to apply for a tourist visa.

There are also several other countries where American travelers are not required to obtain a visa before going, including many European, Caribbean, Central American, and South American countries.

Election 2024
Entertainment
Newsletters
Photography
Personal Finance
AP Investigations
AP Buyline Personal Finance
AP Buyline Shopping
Press Releases
Israel-Hamas War
Russia-Ukraine War
Global elections
Asia Pacific
Latin America
Middle East
Election Results
Delegate Tracker
AP & Elections
March Madness
AP Top 25 Poll
Movie reviews
Book reviews
Personal finance
Financial Markets
Business Highlights
Financial wellness
Artificial Intelligence
Social Media

Brazil again extends visa exemptions for US, Canada and Australia, this time until 2025

FILE - A tourist takes a selfie with the Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Nov. 25, 2017. Brazil’s government has postponed until April 2025 tourist visa exemptions for citizens of the U.S., Australia, and Canada that had been scheduled to end on Wednesday, according to a decree published in the nation’s official gazette. (AP Photo/Bruna Prado, File)

Copy Link copied

RIO DE JANEIRO (AP) — Brazil’s government extended exemptions to tourist visa requirements for citizens of the U.S., Australia and Canada until April 2025, extending a program aimed at boosting tourism that had been scheduled to end Wednesday.

The decision, issued by Brazilian presidency and the Ministry of Foreign Relations late Tuesday, marks the third time Brazil has delayed the visa requirement since President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva took office in 2023.

His predecessor, Jair Bolsonaro, exempted the countries from visas as a means to boost tourism — although all three countries continued to demand visas from Brazilians.

That went against the South American country’s tradition of requiring visas from travelers based on the principle of reciprocity and equal treatment, and prompted Lula’s Foreign Ministry to say it would scrap the exemptions.

“Brazil does not grant unilateral exemption from visiting visas, without reciprocity, to other countries,” the ministry said at the time, while noting that the government stood ready to negotiate visa waiver agreements on a reciprocal basis. It did reach a deal with Japan to ease travel provisions.

Brazil's President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and Minister of Indigenous Peoples Sonia Guajajara arrive to the closing ceremony of the 1st Ordinary Meeting of the National Council for Indigenous Policy, in Brasilia, Brazil, Thursday, April 18, 2024. The council, dissolved in 2019, was revived in 2023. (AP Photo/Eraldo Peres)

The decision to maintain exemptions for the three countries is important for boosting tourism in Brazil, notably from the U.S., Brazil’s official tourism board Embratur said in a statement Tuesday.

Official data shows that nearly 670,000 Americans visited Brazil in 2023, making the U.S. the second largest country of origin after neighboring Argentina.

The government initially postponed the reinstatement of the visa requirement in October, then again in January. At the time, the government said it was still finalizing a new visa system and wanted to avoid implementing it close to the high season, mainly during the New Year’s celebrations and Carnival festivities in February, which attract tens of thousands of tourists.

IMAGES

The Most Popular Places to Visit in Brazil
14 Best Places To Visit In Brazil
The best things to do in Rio de Janeiro, from cable car rides to
15 Incredible Places To Visit And Things To Do Brazil
37 Tourist Attractions in Brazil You Need to Visit (In All States!) • I
These Places To Visit In Brazil Are Must For Every Traveler

VIDEO

Traffic Signals in Brazil #driving #traffic #roadtrip
ROAD DRİVİNG l BRAZİL
I saw a foreign tourist driving what looked like Mario Kart in my country's capital city
🇧🇷 Driving Brazil [4K] Estrada Quiriri
Wisconsin Highway 14 east through Viroqua Wisconsin
Driving in Belo Horizonte

COMMENTS

Driving in Brazil: What You Need to Know
Driving in Brazil is not for everyone. With over 1 million miles of highways, many of which are unpaved, Brazil's size should not be underestimated. Depending on your travel plans, you'll come across a variety of road types, from the grid-locked freeways of Sao Paulo to the wild dirt roads in the Amazon region.
Driving in Brazil: Guide & Tips by a Local (2024)
General rules about driving in Brazil. The first thing you must know is that there are some general Brazilian traffic laws that you must follow, no matter which state or city you are visiting. Here are a few important rules you need to know for driving in Brazil: The minimum driving age in Brazil is 18 years old.
Driving in Brazil: The Ultimate Guide (Foreign Licenses, Laws, Rent)
Driving with the wrong driving license in Brazil is considered an infraction of extreme severity, and you could get penalized with a BRL 586,94 (USD 104.25) fine (we'll see more on fines and tickets up ahead), as well as having the motorcycle apprehended until the owner shows up with the proper license and registration (in case you're ...
Driving in Brazil Guide: Ultimate Tips & Rules 2024
Check the 2024 Driving Guide for Brazil. Find essential tips on car rentals, road rules, and destinations. Perfect for tourists driving in Albania. Click to Read. ... Brazil's tourism sector is flourishing, attracting over three million international visitors annually.
Driving in Brazil: things to know and what to expect
Road regulations in Brazil. On the road, cars must keep their headlights on at all times, even during the day. Like the cities, most roads also have radar speed signs and sometimes even police officers with speed guns. Generally, speed limits go from 60 km/h (about 37 mph) to 100 km/h (about 60 mph), but some roads do go lower or higher than that.
The best road trips in Brazil
Best road trip for wildlife. Poconé-Porto Jofre; 150km (93 miles) The Pantanal is the world's largest wetland, covering some 209,790 sq km (81,000 sq miles), mostly in Brazil but also spilling into neighboring Bolivia and Paraguay. This natural wonderland is a must-visit for wildlife lovers - the forests teem with big creatures such as ...
An American's Guide to Driving in Brazil
Release the clutch and simultaneously push down on the gas to get moving in 1st gear. Release from the gas pedal and press the clutch to move the stick into 2nd gear. Release the clutch and simultaneously push down on the gas to continue moving in 2nd gear. Repeat steps 4-5 for all other gears. Whenever using the brakes, press down on the ...
Driving in Brazil
The Quick Guide to Driving in Brazil. For a brief overview of what you need to know for driving in Brazil safely, scan our tips below. Drive on the right Speed limit on highway outside city 110km/h Speed limit in city: 30 km/h; Avenues: 60 km/h; Highways: 80 km/h 18+ driving age. However, usually you must be 21+ to rent a car in Brazil. 0% ...
Practical Tips for Driving in Brazil
Tips for driving in Brazil. Here are five practical hints and recommendations for anyone who wants to venture out on the road in this amazing country. 1. Road conditions in Brazil. As in most countries, road conditions in Brazil can vary a great deal. As a general rule, the roads in the south and south-east regions are in much better shape than ...
Driving in Brazil
Driving is sometimes the best option to get around Brazil, due to the poor quality of most cities' public transportation.Any foreigner is allowed to drive for up to 180 days with their country's driving license, unless it expires earlier. After the 180-day period, you must apply for some tests in order to obtain a Brazilian license.
Traveling inside Brazil: a guide to transportation in the country
Here are some topics you should consider before choosing your way of transportation in Brazil: Average Travel Time. One of the main advantages of traveling by plane is getting to your point of interest much faster than with any other transportation. It allows for a distant location to be accessed with a lot more ease, differently from a car trip, that depending on the distance, could take days.
Transport in Brazil: Tips for Traveling Around Safely
Brazil bus travel. Because of the high cost of domestic flights bus travel is popular and easy in Brazil, servicing most areas of the country. ... Drink driving in Brazil. Drinking and driving is not the smartest move, period, but in Brazil, you will pay a heavy price for reckless behavior. Brazil's zero-tolerance drink/driving policy, which ...
Driving in Brazil
The speed limit in Brazil is 30 to 50 km/h on most urban roads, but you can drive up to 60 km/h in rural areas and 120 km/h on the highway. Pay attention to the trucks, which sometimes drive aggressively. Under no circumstances should you drive if you've been drinking. Brazil's Lei Seca (Dry Law) is extremely strict.
The best ways to get around in Brazil
Buses provide most overland transport in Brazil. For those with more time on their hands, buses are a popular and cheap way to get around Brazil, particularly between major cities and towns, and there are often good views en route. Bus services range from simple comum (conventional) buses to more luxurious leito (overnight sleeper) buses ...
Driving in Brazil
If you're a tourist who plans to go driving in Brazil, you can conveniently take the trains or the comfortable passenger buses. Even small cities have bus transport services. Some travel companies can even take tourists to places that are accessible only by 4-wheel drive vehicles. Taxis are available but they can cost you.
Getting around Brazil
Local travel in Brazil is always easy. Public transport outside of the Amazon is generally by bus or plane, though there are a few passenger trains, too. However you travel, services will be crowded, plentiful and, apart from planes, fairly cheap. Car rental is possible, but driving in Brazil is not for the faint-hearted.
Driving in Brazil
Rules and Regulations. Driving legislation in Brazil is federal, and therefore applies to the whole territory. There are not regional differences. Drive on the right side of the road, overtake on the left. The legal minimum age for driving cars and motorcycles is 18 years. Mobile cellular telephones may only be used with a "hands-free" system.
How To Drive To Rio De Janeiro: The Ultimate Road Trip Guide
Rio de Janeiro is located in Brazil, which is approximately 4749 miles / 7642.77 km / 4126.77 nautical miles from the United States. It takes 3408 miles of driving to drive between Costa Rica and Brazil. The drive from Costa Rica to Brazil takes approximately two days and 17 hours. There is a distance of 8692 kilometers between Venezuela and ...
Ultimate Guide to Planning a Perfect Trip to Brazil: Expert Tips from a
A visa to Travel to Brazil is not required by all nationals of EU countries for stays of up to 90-days. A Visa to travel to Brazil is required by nationals of Australia, Canada, and the USA. Visa-Free Entry to stay up to 90 days for American, Canadian, Japanese, and Australian passport holders. Consult this website for more visa requirements.
Safety and security
After 180 days, you need to apply for a Brazilian driving licence. Driving standards. Brazil has a high road accident rate. Driving standards are poor. Take care on the roads and avoid riding ...
Brazil International Travel Information
Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). See the State Department's travel website for the Worldwide Caution and Travel Advisories.
Transportation in Brazil
Hiring a car is relatively easy. It's important to note that driving in a foreign country poses unique challenges, but it's a good option for exploring nearby cities. So, consider hiring a car in Brazil. While driving in Brazil is easy, drivers should practice patience and defensive driving before driving in the country.
Visiting Salvador, Brazil: A First-timer's Guide
The city buses are actually a great way to get around, especially if you're visiting well-known tourist sites. Although the price has gone up recently, a single trip on the bus still falls under 4 Brazilian Reais (BRL). This is about the equivalent of one US dollar at the time of writing so it's the best option if you're on a budget.
Brazil Postpones Visa Rules for U.S. Travelers to 2025
Brazil has postponed its travel visa requirements for American visitors until 2025 just as it was set to go into effect. "We applaud the government's decision… to delay the visa," Joao H ...
US travelers visiting Brazil will need a visa from 2025
From April 2025, travelers from Australia, Canada and the US will need a visa to visit Brazil. But to get it, applicants will need to show they have at least $2,000 in their bank account.
Brazil again extends visa exemptions for US, Canada and Australia, this
FILE - A tourist takes a selfie with the Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Nov. 25, 2017. Brazil's government has postponed until April 2025 tourist visa exemptions for citizens of the U.S., Australia, and Canada that had been scheduled to end on Wednesday, according to a decree published in the nation's official gazette.

Driving in Brazil

Driving Requirements

Rules of the Road

Should You Rent a Car?

Road Conditions

Car Theft and Armed Robbery

Trucks and Motorcycles

Traffic Jams

Pedestrians and Stray Animals

Everything you need to know about driving in Brazil as a foreigner

RECOMMENDED

General rules about driving in Brazil

Speed limits in Brazil

Urban areas

Rural areas

Always pay attention to the speed signs when driving in Brazil!

Speed cameras when driving in Brazil

Road conditions in Brazil

Safety tips for driving in Brazil

Driving in Brazil: Figuring out parking

FAQ: Popular questions about driving in Brazil

Can I drive in Brazil with a foreign license?

Do I need an International Driving Permit for driving in Brazil?

Is it safe for tourists to drive in Brazil?

How easy is it to drive in Brazil?

Is drunk driving legal in Brazil?

What is the penalty for drunk driving in Brazil?

Can you turn right on red in Brazil?

What side of the road do they drive in Brazil?

Are cars in Brazil right-hand drive?

What kind of cars do they drive in Brazil?

Organizing your trip

Similar Posts

Hiking Sugar Loaf Mountain in Rio de Janeiro

Best Airport in Rio de Janeiro to Fly Into

Renting a Car in Slovenia: Tips by Locals

Renting a Car in Ljubljana (Airport or Center)

Where to Stay in Ipanema: Best Hotels

Best Time to Visit Rio de Janeiro – local tips

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Brazil Driving Guide

Get an International Driving Permit to bask in Brazil's vibrant culture and spectacular beaches.

Go Beyond Brazil's Major Cities

Let's Take a Closer Look at Brazil

Geographic Location

Languages Spoken

International Driving Permit FAQs

Do I Need an IDP in Brazil?

Why Carry an IDP While Driving in Brazil?

Is Driving In Brazil With a UK License Valid?

Who is Eligible for an IDP?

Can I Drive in Brazil Without an IDP?

Renting a Car in Brazil

Ease of Renting a Car

Choosing a Car Rental Company

Renting from an Airport

Required Documentation for Car Rental

Selecting the Right Vehicle

Cost of Renting a Car

Age Requirements

Car Insurance Cost

Car Insurance Policy

Road Rules in Brazil

Driving Side

Legal Driving Age

Speed Limits

Alcohol Limit for Drivers

Animal Hazards

Parking Precautions

Pedestrian Awareness

Theft Risks

Vehicle Restrictions

Avoiding Distractions

Using Headlights

Seatbelt and Child Safety Laws

Navigating Brazilian Roads

Traffic Road Signs

Right of Way

Overtaking Laws

General Driving Regulations