It’s hard to choose a best time to visit Brazil since there is never a bad time to explore this giant South American gem. Look at a map of the continent and you’ll see Brazil takes up around half the land mass, so when deciding which month to visit Brazil you need to consider where you’ll go. Thankfully there are no extreme climate zones and most of the country falls in the tropics – so it’s pleasant and warm year-round, though some regions experience rainy and dry seasons.
Brazil is a big country so let’s dive into each month of the year with which areas are best. Then we’ll answer some frequently asked questions about the best time of year to visit Brazil or join Brazil tours with Trafalgar.
November, December & January in Brazil
Summers kicks off with warmer temperatures around November, offering a taste of what’s to come. If you prefer less crowded beaches, go in November before school kids on summer break fill up the beaches and peak season begins. That said, Brazil is a huge country with 4000 miles (6,400 km) of coastline, so if you head away from the main cities you’ll find quieter patches of sand.
Summer can get super busy as people flock to the cities – especially Rio de Janeiro – for Christmas and New Year. People gather for churrasco (grilled meat or BBQs) together in backyard or at the beach.
There’s a cool tradition in Rio on NYE, where everyone wears white and parties at Copacabana Beach. The night ends with fireworks and people rushing into the sea to jump over seven waves for good luck.
READ NEXT: 7 Brazilian beaches to celebrate a special ‘White Christmas’
February, March & April in Brazil
Late summer is when carnival (or carnaval) hits Brazil – usually around mid February or early March (the date depends on the religious calendar). It’s a super fun time to explore the big cities and get swept up in the madness of the celebrations.
The most famous carnival takes place in Rio de Janeiro, where crowds gather for the samba parades and street parties that take place every hour of the day. Start working on your fitness now – you’ll need the stamina to keep up with the locals. Smaller cities also celebrate and offer a more relaxed party atmosphere. If you visit this time of year, expect high prices for accommodation and airfares.
Weather wise, warmer days bring rains to the Amazon and the Pantanal.
READ NEXT: 17 best places to visit in South America for the first time
May, June & July in Brazil
As cooler days set in, so does the dry season – so if you’re more interested in nature then May through to July may be a great time to visit Brazil. The “Green Coast” between Rio and São Paulo is gorgeous at this time of year, and the sea is still warm after the summer months.
Further north, Bahia’s rainy seasons kicks in around June, but that usually only brings an afternoon shower or two. The north is generally warmer than the south, and in Bahia you can explore Afro-Brazilian culture and traditions too.
Inland, the lush Amazon Rainforst is waiting. The dry season falls between July and December and this is the best time to visit. Don’t expect no rain – this is a rainforest after all. The wet season’s heavy rains can make exploring impossible, so these drier months are ideal for hiking and river cruising.
Just take note that a lot of school children have July off, so prices might be elevated despite being off-season.
READ NEXT: What you must pack for a trip to Brazil
August, September & October in Brazil
August, September and October are definitely quieter winter months in Brazil, and while the winter is mild you can’t expect beach and tanning weather. In the south it can be quite cloudy and cool, but the north is warm year-round so it’s ideal for a low-season adventure.
Common FAQs about when to visit Brazil
When is summer in Brazil?
In Brazil, the warmest months fall between November and March, with summer officially falling during the months of December, January and February. If you visit during this time, you can escape the cool winter days of Europe or North America, and enjoy a sunny New Year Eve’s dancing in a light summer dress with your toes in the sand.
What month is best to go to Brazil?
The best time to visit Brazil would be between April to June or September to November, depending on where you go. These shoulder months offer that idea mix of good weather, smaller crowds and better prices compared to peak tourist seasons.
READ NEXT: 7 reasons why South America is the most exciting continent on Earth
What is the cheapest month to visit Brazil?
For budget-conscious travelers, May is the best month to visit Brazil. It’s the sweet spot between the high summer season and winter. Expect lower airfares, fewer tourists and better travel deals. Beaches, rainforests, and vibrant cities are still enjoyable without the peak-season prices.
What is the hottest month for Brazil?
Brazil sizzles in February, its hottest month. Temperatures soar above 95°F (35°C) in many regions – ideal for sun-seekers and beach lovers. Cities like Rio de Janeiro and Salvador are alive with summer energy (and the buzz of carnival), while the Amazon steams with tropical heat.
What is the best month to go to Rio de Janeiro?
For the buzz, nowhere shine like Rio de Janeiro in February during Carnival. Expect an explosion of music, dance, and color. But if you want sunshine without the summer crowds, September to November is ideal. These months bring warm, clear days perfect for Christ the Redeemer visits, Sugarloaf Mountain hikes, and Copacabana Beach time.
That’s our guide to the best time to visit Brazil. Do you have any more tips? Leave us a comment…