Brazilië

1. What are the best places to visit in Brazil?
Rio de Janeiro is famous for Christ the Redeemer, Copacabana Beach, and Carnival celebrations. Iguazu Falls, on the border with Argentina, features 275 waterfalls and lush trails. The Amazon Rainforest, accessible from Manaus, offers jungle tours to spot sloths and piranhas. Salvador is known for its Afro-Brazilian culture and the historic Pelourinho district. Florianópolis has stunning beaches and surfing spots. São Paulo offers vibrant nightlife and the São Paulo Museum of Art. Visit Lençóis Maranhenses National Park for its surreal sand dunes and seasonal lagoons. Don’t miss Ouro Preto, a colonial town with baroque architecture and gold mining history.

2. Is it safe to travel to Brazil?
As of March 2025, Brazil is generally safe for tourists, but caution is needed in cities like Rio and São Paulo. Petty theft and pickpocketing are common in tourist areas—avoid flashing valuables and stay alert at night. Favelas (slums) can be dangerous unless visiting with a guided tour. Violent crime rates are higher in some regions, like the Northeast, so stick to well-traveled areas. Tap water isn’t safe in most places; use bottled water. Mosquito-borne diseases like dengue and Zika are risks in the Amazon—use repellent. Medical facilities vary—good in cities, limited in rural areas—so travel insurance is recommended. Check for safety advisories before traveling.

3. Do I need a visa to visit Brazil?
Citizens of the U.S., EU, Canada, Australia, and many other countries can enter visa-free for up to 90 days with a passport valid for 6 months, as of 2025. A yellow fever certificate is recommended, especially for the Amazon, and may be required if coming from an affected area. Proof of onward travel and accommodation may be requested. Extensions up to 90 days are possible at Federal Police offices ($50). Other nationalities may need a visa, obtainable through a Brazilian embassy or consulate ($40–$100). Confirm requirements before travel, as policies can change, especially for health-related entry rules.

4. What is the best time to visit Brazil?
The best time depends on the region. The dry season (May–September) is ideal for the Amazon and Pantanal, with temperatures of 25°C–35°C (77°F–95°F) and better wildlife spotting. Summer (December–March) is great for Rio and the beaches, with temperatures of 30°C–40°C (86°F–104°F), but it’s also the rainy season in the Amazon. Carnival in Rio (February or March) is a peak time—book early. Spring (September–November) and fall (March–May) offer milder weather in São Paulo and Iguazu Falls, with fewer crowds. Avoid the Northeast during the rainy season (April–July) due to flooding risks. Brazil’s size means weather varies widely, so plan accordingly.

5. How do I get to Brazil?
Fly into São Paulo–Guarulhos International Airport (GRU) or Rio’s Galeão International Airport (GIG). Direct flights from the U.S. (Miami, New York) take 8–10 hours ($600–$1,500 round trip) with American Airlines or LATAM. From Europe (London, Paris), flights take 11–13 hours ($700–$1,800) with British Airways or Air France. Domestic flights with GOL or LATAM connect São Paulo to Manaus or Salvador ($50–$150 one-way, 2–4 hours). Long-distance buses like Itapemirim travel between Rio and Florianópolis (18 hours, $40–$80). Taxis in Rio cost $5–$10 per ride, or use the metro for $1. Uber is widely available in cities. Flights and buses can be delayed, so plan extra time.

6. What are traditional Brazilian foods to try?
Try feijoada, a black bean stew with pork, served with rice and orange slices, especially on Saturdays. Pão de queijo, cheesy bread balls, are a Minas Gerais specialty. Moqueca, a seafood stew with coconut milk, is popular in Bahia. Churrasco, Brazilian barbecue, features grilled meats like picanha (sirloin cap). For a snack, grab a coxinha, a fried dough filled with shredded chicken. Açai bowls, topped with granola and fruit, are a refreshing treat in Rio. Sip caipirinha, a cocktail made with cachaça, lime, and sugar. In the Amazon, try tambaqui, a grilled river fish. Desserts like brigadeiro, a chocolate truffle, are a must.

7. What are the best cultural experiences in Brazil?
Join Carnival in Rio (February or March) for samba parades at the Sambadrome ($50–$200/ticket). In Salvador, experience the Afro-Brazilian Candomblé rituals and street music in Pelourinho. Attend the Parintins Folklore Festival (June) in the Amazon for a colorful Boi-Bumbá celebration. Visit a samba school rehearsal in Rio’s Mangueira neighborhood ($10–$20). Explore the São Paulo Carnival for a less touristy vibe. In Recife, join the Frevo dance during Carnival season. Take a capoeira class in Salvador to learn the Afro-Brazilian martial art ($15–$30). Visit the Museum of Tomorrow in Rio for a blend of culture and innovation ($5 entry).

8. What are the best outdoor activities in Brazil?
Take a boat tour in the Amazon from Manaus to spot pink dolphins ($100–$200 for 2 days). Hike to the top of Sugarloaf Mountain in Rio for panoramic views ($20 cable car). Explore Iguazu Falls via the Devil’s Throat trail ($25 entry, $50 for boat rides). Go wildlife spotting in the Pantanal for jaguars and caimans ($150–$300 for 3 days). Surf in Florianópolis at Praia Mole ($20 board rental). Sandboard in Lençóis Maranhenses National Park ($30/tour). Snorkel in Fernando de Noronha, a marine paradise ($100–$150/dive). Trek to Pedra da Gávea in Rio for a challenging hike with ocean views ($40 with a guide).

9. What should I know about Brazilian culture before visiting?
Brazilians are warm and social—greet with a handshake or a kiss on the cheek (one or two, depending on the region). Portuguese is the main language; English is limited outside tourist areas. Dress is casual, but beachwear stays at the beach—cover up in cities. Meals are social—dinner often starts at 8 PM. Tipping 10% is standard in restaurants (often included). Soccer is a passion—expect lively debates about teams like Flamengo or Corinthians. Public displays of affection are common. Be prepared for a relaxed sense of time—punctuality isn’t strict. Avoid discussing politics or inequality, as they’re sensitive topics. Carnival and music are central to the culture.

10. What are the accommodation options in Brazil?
In Rio, stay at the Belmond Copacabana Palace ($300–$600/night) for luxury or Pura Vida Hostel ($20–$40/night) for budget travelers. In São Paulo, the Hotel Unique ($200–$400/night) is iconic, while Hostel Alice ($15–$30/night) is affordable. Manaus has the Juma Amazon Lodge ($250–$500/night, meals included) for jungle stays, or Hotel Saint Paul ($40–$80/night). In Salvador, the Fera Palace Hotel ($100–$200/night) offers historic charm, or try Bahia Sol e Mar ($30–$60/night). Florianópolis has the Il Campanario Villaggio Resort ($120–$250/night) or The Search House Hostel ($20–$40/night). Book early for Carnival season, as prices spike and availability is limited.