Weather in Brazil in February travel guide

Planning a trip to Brazil in winter? Get the full picture with this detailed guide to the weather in Brazil in February. Find out what weather conditions await you with detailed descriptions of precipitation patterns, temperature ranges, and humidity levels. This guide will prepare you for the climate, help you pack your bags, and plan an unforgettable Brazilian adventure.

Brazil in February at a glance

February in Brazil brings sizzling summer days, lively Carnival celebrations, and bustling beaches. Here’s what to expect:

• Hot and humid with average temperatures between 75°F and 95°F (24°C to 35°C). Afternoon rain showers are frequent but brief.
• Carnival season means even bigger crowds and higher prices, especially in Rio de Janeiro and along the coast.
• Perfect for experiencing Carnival and beach life, but not ideal if you’re after quiet, cooler escapes.

What is the weather like in Brazil in February?

February in Brazil means heat, humidity, and a lot of rain, especially if you’re anywhere near the Amazon or the Pantanal. It’s summer here, and a lot of Brazilians are on vacation, so places like Rio, Salvador, and Recife are busy, festive, and full of energy. Carnival usually hits this month, which means crowds, music, and high prices.

The weather in Brazil in February is hot almost everywhere, with afternoon rainstorms that tend to roll in fast and heavy. Rio averages about 130 mm of rain this month, while Manaus sees closer to 250 mm. In the rainforest, swollen rivers can make boat travel trickier but also more interesting if you're here for wildlife.

It’s not the driest time to visit, but if you’re chasing sun, street parties, or long beach days, it still delivers. Just pack for heat and sudden downpours. This is a great month to plan your Brazil itinerary.
 

Average daily temperatures in February

February is peak summer in Brazil, so expect heat, humidity, and plenty of sunshine—especially in the lead-up to Carnival. In Rio, daytime highs usually sit around 85 to 90°F (29 to 32°C), with warm nights in the mid-70s (24°C). São Paulo tends to be a little cooler and cloudier, with daytime temps closer to 80 to 84°F (27 to 29°C) and frequent late-afternoon showers.

The Amazon is hot, humid, and deep into its rainy season. Expect highs around 88°F (31°C) with daily downpours—though boat travel is still very doable, and the forests are lush.

Northeastern cities like Salvador, Recife, and Fortaleza stay hot and sunny through most of the month. Highs hover around 86°F (30°C), the sea’s warm at 80°F (27°C), and humidity builds toward late afternoon storms.

Farther south, beach towns like Florianópolis still feel summery, with temps in the low 80s (27°C) and long, beach-friendly days. Rain becomes more frequent as the month goes on, but it usually passes quickly.

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Is February a good time to visit Brazil?

February in Brazil is hot, loud, and full of energy. This is peak summer, and Carnival takes over cities like Rio and Salvador with parades, music, and dancing in the streets. Daytime temperatures often hit the upper 90s and the humidity can be intense.

On the coast, beach towns like Búzios and Florianópolis stay packed, but the water is warm and perfect for swimming. In the Amazon, it's the rainy season, which sounds limiting, but higher river levels actually make boat tours easier and let you reach more remote areas.

Expect heavy afternoon showers across much of the country, but they usually come and go quickly. It’s a busy month with lots of domestic travel, so book ahead and be ready for crowds. For more tips, see our guide to how to plan a trip to Brazil. 

• Peak Carnival celebrations with unforgettable festivities
• Perfect beach weather for coastal destinations
• Higher prices and crowded tourist spots
• Frequent afternoon showers in many regions
• Amazon rivers at optimal levels for boat tours

What about crowds and costs?

February brings many tourists to Brazil, especially because of the colorful carnival festivities that take place in many cities such as Rio de Janeiro, Manaus, and Brasilia. This influx of tourists leads to large crowds in the main tourist spots, raising prices for hotels as well as excursions and entertainment. In some places, the cost of a vacation during this high season can increase three to four times.

However, if you are prepared to handle the crowds of tourists and stay within budget, you can experience the vibrant culture and festivities that make Brazil in February a unique destination. It is advisable to book hotels and tickets in advance to get the best prices, and always check if the tourist spots you intend to visit are crowded during this period. If you're still deciding, see our guide to the best time to visit Brazil. 

Where to go in Brazil in February

February is high summer in Brazil and peak Carnival season. Here are some of the best places to visit in Brazil. 

Rio de Janeiro

In Rio de Janeiro, Carnival takes over the city. Blocos fill the streets day and night, while samba school parades bring thousands into the Sambadrome. If you need a break from the parties, head to the beach. Copacabana and Ipanema are in full swing with vendors, swimmers, and musicians. 

Salvador

Carnival in Salvador is loud, raw, and participatory. You don’t watch it—you’re in it. People dance alongside trio elétrico trucks blasting music through the streets, and the whole city moves together. In between, explore the upper and lower parts of the city connected by the Elevador Lacerda, or take a breather in the cobbled historic center of Pelourinho.  You'll find this is one of the best cities in Brazil.

Fernando de Noronha

If Carnival isn’t your thing, this remote archipelago offers quiet days and clear water. February has some of the best diving and snorkeling conditions of the year, especially at Baía do Sancho. Dolphins show up regularly in the morning, and the protected status of the island means limited visitors and well-preserved nature. This is where you'll find some of Brazil's best beaches.
 

Things to do in Brazil in February

There are many exciting things to do in Brazil, but we suggest you check out the most interesting ones to do in February.

Attend Carnival

Carnival represents Brazil's cultural soul, combining African, European, and indigenous influences into an explosion of music, dance, and creativity. Each city celebrates differently—Rio's Sambadrome hosts elaborate parades, Salvador's streets become open-air concerts, and Olinda features giant puppets and frevo dancing. This is one of the world's best carnivals.

Chapada Diamantina National Park

Discover the dramatic beauty of Chapada Diamantina National Park in Bahia. Known for its vast plateaus, deep canyons, and hidden waterfalls, this park offers some of the best hiking in Brazil. Explore the towering Fumaça Waterfall, dive into crystal-clear pools, or trek through the majestic Vale do Pati. 

Samba school rehearsals in Rio

Get swept up in the excitement of Carnival preparations by attending a samba school rehearsal in Rio de Janeiro. These rehearsals, often held in huge warehouse-like spaces, are a full-blown party where you’ll witness the vibrant, high-energy dance routines and hear the booming beats of samba drums. Watch performers practice in their intricate costumes and get a glimpse of the passion that goes into creating Rio’s world-famous Carnival. For more advice see our Brazil travel tips.
 

Planning your itinerary

Our Brazil itineraries are crafted to help you experience the best of the country, stress-free. Think of them as a starting point—perfect for planning but flexible enough to adjust to your own pace and interests. After all, travel is about freedom, but a little planning goes a long way.

• Brazil itinerary 10 days: Experience the best of Brazil by visiting the iconic beaches of Rio de Janeiro, the thundering waterfalls of Iguazu, and the lively streets of Salvador in ten days. Perfect for travelers who want to combine nature, culture, and nightlife.