Best time to visit Brazil

Given its sheer scale and diverse landscapes and weather patterns, figuring out the best time to visit Brazil depends on your travel priorities. From the prime time to hit Brazil’s beaches, to the optimal months for Amazonian adventures, here we present the best time to visit Brazil, considering different activities, regions and seasons.

What is the best time to visit Brazil

The best time to visit Brazil depends on your preferences and the specific regions you plan to explore. Generally, Brazil experiences four distinct seasons:

• December to March (Summer): This is the peak of summer in Brazil, characterized by hot and humid weather. It's an ideal time for beach destinations, festivals, and outdoor activities. However, popular tourist spots can be crowded, and prices may be higher.
• April to June (Fall): Fall brings milder temperatures, making it a pleasant time to visit. It's less crowded than summer, and the Amazon region experiences less rainfall. It's a good season for exploring various parts of the country.
• June to September (Winter): Winter in Brazil, especially in the southern regions, brings cooler temperatures. It's a great time for cultural events, exploring cities, and hiking in more temperate climates. The Amazon, however, experiences its dry season, making it easier to navigate.
• October to November (Spring): Spring is a transitional period with warming temperatures. It's an excellent time for outdoor activities, and you may catch the beginning of the wet season in the Amazon.

Ultimately, the best time to visit depends on your interests and the specific experiences you seek. Whether it's the vibrant energy of summer, the milder climate of fall, the cooler temperatures of winter, or the blossoming landscapes of spring, Brazil offers diverse attractions throughout the year.

December-March: best for beach bliss

As gushed over in our run-down of the best beaches in Brazil, the country boasts an incredible bounty of coastal beauties to satisfy every desire.

Whether you fancy the energic vibe of iconic Copacabana in Rio de Janeiro, or are seeking a slice of tropical seclusion, your best bet is to visit during Brazil's December-March summer season.

A word of warning though — this is also peak tourist season, which means the likes of Copacabana will be busier than ever. 

For a taste of tropical paradise — with the added joy of natural wonders and excellent snorkelling and scuba diving — consider heading to the environmentally protected Fernando de Noronha archipelago.

Set on a sun-and-sand based trip? You’ll love our Brazilian Beaches itinerary.

February or March: best for carnival culture

Visiting Brazil during Carnival offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Held in February or early March, festivities span five days, starting on the Friday before Ash Wednesday before winding up in exuberant style on Shrove Tuesday.

You’ll have seen the celebrations in Rio, most notably its Samba Parade, but note carnival happens all over the country. For example, in Salvador the focus is more on music, particularly Afro-Brazilian rhythms. 

Meanwhile, Olinda’s carnival is famous for its giant puppets parading through the streets.

Wherever you decide to experience carnival in Brazil, book flights and accommodation early, and be sure to get involved.

Not sure where to go? Take inspiration from our customizable Brazil itineraries.

April-June, Sept-Nov: best for the southeast 

Encompassing Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, Belo Horizonte, and the island city of Vitória, Brazil’s southeast is especially rewarding to explore during the shoulder season months. By which we mean April to June, and September to November.

During these periods, the region’s weather is comfortably warm, and conditions are a lot less crowded than during the peak season.  All of which means you can enjoy a more immersive experience in less sticky conditions. 

April, May and June sees the weather begin to cool down to a temperature range of 64°F to 77°F (18°C to 25°C). 

Rainfall decreases, too — all of the better if you fancy a beach break or want to hike in areas like the Tijuca National Park, or tackle the trail up to Sugarloaf Mountain.

While the weather is warming up in the September-November spring shoulder season, it hasn’t yet reached the heady heat of summer. We’re talking an average range of 68°F to 79°F (20°C to 26°C). 

This is also a top time to watch whales in the region.

Now sure how long to stay, and how to plan your trip? Check out our suggested itineraries for spending two weeks in Brazil.

April-October: best for exploring Pantanal

Being the world’s largest inland wetland area, visiting Pantanal between April and October presents unique opportunities to explore incredible landscapes. And, with huge open spaces, it’s also ideal for spotting animals.

On that subject, if you visit Pantanal, you might get to see the elusive jaguar, along with the Brazilian tapir, marsh deer, giant anteater and giant otter.

Interest piqued? See our customizable itinerary for spending 5 days in Pantanal, and check out our very special jaguar focussed trip.

July-December: best for Amazon adventures

The July, August and September dry season is typically the best time to visit the Brazilian Amazon. Though rain falls around the year here, these months are (unsurprisingly) drier, making it easier to explore the jungle and region’s rivers.

Trails are more accessible and less muddy, which makes for better hiking conditions. November showcases Brazil's vibrant spring beauty, making it a fantastic time to explore its lush landscapes and outdoor attractions.

In addition, the lower water levels mean wildlife is usually more concentrated around water sources — all the better for spotting experiences.

Torn between the Amazon and Pantanal? Do yourself a favor and explore both on our Pure Wildlife itinerary.

Inspired to visit? Get The Rough Guide to Brazil to help plan your trip.

Not keen on planning? Check-out our customizable Brazil itineraries and contact our local expert to kick-start curating your dream trip.