Weather in Brazil in January travel guide

Planning a trip to Brazil in winter? Get the full picture with this detailed guide to the weather in Brazil in January. 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.

Discover Brazil in January

January is the time when Brazil is buzzing with vibrant life. With summer in full swing in the Southern Hemisphere, you'll enjoy warm temperatures ideal for beach vacations and outdoor adventures.

Benefits of visiting Brazil in January

Brazil in January is a haven for those seeking to escape the winter chills of Europe and the United States. It's the perfect time to explore the scenic beauty of beach destinations in the South or delve into the lively city events and festivals in places like Salvador, Recife, and Fortaleza. In addition, the weather in Brazil in January allows you to fully enjoy the majesty of the famous Iguaçu Falls.

Downsides of visiting Brazil in January

While Brazil in January offers a myriad of tourist delights, it is not without its downsides. Since this is the start of the country's busiest tourist season, you can expect higher hotel prices and large crowds. 

In addition, some regions such as the Amazon, the Pantanal, and the historic cities of Minas Gerais are soaked with rain, making them less ideal to visit. It's also the time when mosquitoes, Brazil's common pests that carry diseases such as dengue, zika, and chikungunya, become more active.

Haven't picked the right time for your Brazil trip yet? Explore our detailed guide to the best time to visit Brazil and gain the insights that will help you decide.

Weather in Brazil in January

January in Brazil is a month with varied weather conditions, offering a unique experience. As the heart of summer in the Southern Hemisphere, it presents a varied climate throughout the country. Below, we cover what you can expect from the weather in Brazil in January.

Temperatures and humidity in North, Central, and Southern Brazil

Northern Brazil enjoys a warm tropical climate almost all year round, with temperatures usually hovering around 26-32°C (80-89°F), with January being no exception. In Central Brazil, January temperatures reach 30°C (86°F) and are accompanied by heavy downpours. In southern Brazil, the summer season begins when temperatures rise to 35°C (95°F). In all regions, increased humidity due to rainfall can be expected at this time.

Temperatures around Rio de Janeiro

In January in Rio de Janeiro, you can enjoy a warm, sunny and humid summer. Daytime high temperatures average around 29°C (87°F), rarely dropping below 26°C (79°F) or exceeding 35°C (95°F). At night, temperatures are relatively lower at around 23°C (75°F). The average sea temperature in January is around 25°C (77°F), ideal for water activities.

Temperatures around Sao Paulo

In January, São Paulo experiences a combination of humid summer with heavy precipitation, with daytime temperatures ranging between 20-28°C (68-82°F). A characteristic feature of São Paulo in January is that it is the month that receives the most rainfall, with showers almost daily. However, despite the rain and possible thunderstorms, the overall temperature is pleasantly warm with a light breeze during the day and cool at night.

Planning to visit Sao Paulo? Explore our guide to the best places to stay in São Paulo and find accommodation options that work for you.

Temperatures in the Amazon Rainforest

In the Amazon rainforest, January is a particularly hot month with high humidity. Daytime temperatures can easily exceed 30°C (86°F), and combined with humidity above 80%, such weather gives the rainforest a truly tropical character. January is also the peak of the rainy season in the Amazon. This means for you frequent torrential downpours, yet traveling in this region of Brazil this month is still possible with enough planning and the right equipment.

Temperatures in the Iguaçu Falls area

January is known as the hottest month in the Iguaçu Falls area, with temperatures ranging from 24°C to 32°C (75°F-90°F). Nights tend to be cooler, with temperatures that can drop as low as 20°C (68°F). Although there is rainfall here this month, it never weakens the lush greenery surrounding the waterfalls. Visiting Iguaçu Falls in January will allow you to enjoy the stunning water spectacle to the fullest, but be prepared for rainfall and humidity.

Temperatures in Pantanal

In the Pantanal, the largest tropical swamp on the planet, January is characterized by warm temperatures ranging from 23°C to 33°C (74°F-91°F), but the constant rainfall caused by the wet season makes it a less favorable time to visit. January sees the maximum rainfall, causing severe flooding and making many areas inaccessible. 

Despite this, it is still possible to observe aquatic life here as the region turns into a large water paradise but beware of mosquitoes and other insects that thrive during this wet season.

For a better understanding of Pantanal's particular characteristics, read our guide to visiting Brazil's Pantanal.

What about crowds and costs in January

January coincides with summer vacation in Brazil and is considered a high season for tourism. This means that popular destinations such as Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, and various beach resorts along the coast can become quite crowded. Many Brazilians are traveling to the coast themselves to escape the rising temperatures, which increases the influx of tourists.

In terms of costs, January tends to be more expensive due to the high demand for flights and accommodation. Prices for hotels, flights, and even some tourist activities are usually higher than in other months. Alternatively, budget travelers can consider staying in smaller towns or areas less tourist-oriented to save on costs.

Is it hot in Brazil in January?

In Brazil, January is getting hotter and hotter, transitioning into full summer mode. Depending on where you are, temperatures in the country range from pleasantly warm to downright scorching. Head north or to the central regions near the equator and you'll find yourself with intense heat and humidity, often exceeding 30°C (86°F). 

In the south, the weather is cooler with a mix of warm and hot temperatures. Prepare for heavy rainfall, especially in January, which increases humidity levels and makes it seem even hotter than it really is.

Best places to see in January

The weather in Brazil in January allows you to explore many exciting destinations:

• Rio de Janeiro: With its sweeping beaches and iconic landmarks like Sugarloaf Mountain and Christ the Redeemer, Rio is a must-visit. January's warm weather makes visiting the beaches, and outdoor sights a delight.
• Sao Paulo: Known as the cultural capital of Brazil, Sao Paulo's beautiful parks, intriguing museums, and vibrant nightlife can be enjoyed in January's warm climate.
• Fortaleza: Famous for its beautiful coastline, the city offers aqua-blue waters and pristine beaches.
• Salvador: This city reveals a unique blend of Afro-Brazilian culture, Baroque architecture, and wonderful beaches. The pleasant January weather makes it a great time to visit Salvador.
• Florianópolis: Florianópolis is known for its breathtakingly beautiful beaches and January's warm temperature makes it perfect for a beach trip.

Best things to do in January

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

• Kayak in the Amazon: Paddle through the world's largest rainforest and explore its incredible biodiversity. January's higher water levels make it an ideal time for kayaking in flooded forests.
• Visit the São Paulo Street Art Scene: Explore the urban art scene in Vila Madalena neighborhood, famous for its colorful murals and graffiti art.
• Discover Indigenous Culture in the Xingu National Park: Learn about the indigenous tribes of the Amazon and their traditions, offering a truly unique and enriching experience.
• Relax at Ilha Grande’s Beaches: Enjoy the serene beauty of this island's pristine beaches.
• Snorkel in Fernando de Noronha: January is a great time to explore this archipelago's clear waters and vibrant marine life, including sea turtles and dolphins.
• Climb Sugarloaf Mountain at Sunrise: Avoid the heat and crowds by hiking up Sugarloaf Mountain in Rio de Janeiro early in the morning, and witness a breathtaking sunrise over the city.

Events and festivals in January

Brazil is renowned for its many cultural festivals and events, and January is no exception. Here's a selection of what to look forward to:

• Dia de São Sebastião: Held on January 20, this celebration sees the patron saint of Rio commemorated with a procession from Igreja de São Sebastião dos Capuchinos in Tijuca to the Catedral Metropolitana in Lapa.
• Dia de Reis or Three Kings' Day: On January 6, a folk celebration called the Folia de Reis takes place across many cities in Brazil. This event involves groups that play instruments, sing songs, and visit houses announcing the arrival of the Messiah.
• Lavagem do Bonfim: Happening on the second Thursday in January, the ritual washing of the Catholic Nosso Senhor do Bonfim Church steps is a significant event in Candomblé tradition.

Thinking of visiting Brazil? You'll find inspiration in our customisable Brazil itineraries, or contact our local experts to kick-start your perfect trip.