›You are here

Home›Destinations›South America›Brazil›Brazil FAQ

Brazil FAQ

Is tipping customary in Brazil?

Tipping is up to the individual when travelling in Brazil. It isn’t expected but will be happily received by service workers like taxi drivers and waiters. Restaurants in Brazil add a 10% surcharge, which is included in the bill. Feel free to leave spare change or tip extra if the service is particularly good.

What is the internet access like in Brazil?

Internet access is widely available in cities and tourist areas like Rio and Sao Paolo, where there are many internet cafes. Internet access is less frequent in rural and remote areas.

Can I use my mobile/cell phone while in Brazil?

You will be able to use your mobile phone in most urban areas of Brazil, although some of the more remote areas may not have network coverage. Ensure you have global roaming activated with your mobile carrier before you leave home if you wish to use your mobile while in Brazil.

What are the toilets like in Brazil?

Toilets in Brazil will vary depending on what area you are travelling in. Flushable, western-style toilets are common in the cities large hotels, malls and clubs but more modest squat toilets are the standard in rural areas and while camping. Either way, carrying a supply of toilet paper and soap is a good idea, as these aren’t always available in public toilets.

What will it cost for a…?

Cup of coffee in a café = 2 BRL
Beer in a bar = 3.5 BRL
Budget meal = 10 BRL
Three course meal in a restaurant = 60 BRL

Can I drink the water in Brazil?

Drinking tap water isn't recommended in Brazil. For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water and fill a reusable water bottle or canteen with filtered water instead. It's also advisable to avoid ice in drinks and peel fruit and vegetables before eating.

Are credit cards accepted widely in Brazil?

Major credit cards are widely accepted by large shops, hotels and restaurants in Brazil. However, they may not be accepted by smaller vendors such as small family restaurants, market stalls or in remote towns and rural areas. Make sure you carry enough cash for purchases, since credit cards aren't always an option everywhere in Brazil.

What is ATM access like in Brazil?

ATMs are found widely throughout Brazil and withdrawing cash shouldn't be problematic in most areas. Some smaller villages and rural areas may not have ATM access, so prepare for this before venturing too far from a city or major town.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before travelling in Brazil?

Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

What public holidays are celebrated in Brazil?

Jan 1 New Year’s Day
Jan 20 Founding of Rio de Janeiro *
Jan 25 Founding of San Paulo *
Feb 9 Carnival
Mar 29 Good Friday
Apr 21 Tiradentes
May 1 Labour Day
May 30 Corpus Christi
Sep 7 Independence Day
Oct 12 Our Lady Aparecida, Patron St of Brazil
Nov 2 All Souls’ Day
Nov 15 Republic Day
Dec 24 Christmas Eve
Dec 25 Christmas Day
Dec 31 New Year’s Eve
* These holidays are only observed regionally

Please note these dates are for 2013. For a current list of public holidays go to: http://www.worldtravelguide.net/Brazil/public-holidays

Do I need a visa to travel to Brazil?

Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveller. The visa requirements for your trip vary depending on where you are from and where you are going. As a general rule most countries expect that you will have at least 6 months' validity on your passport. On arrival visitors may be asked to present return tickets and evidence of means to cover your intended stay.

We keep the following information up to date as much as possible, but rules do change - it's important that you check for yourself. Residents from other countries must consult the relevant embassies or your travel agent.

  • BRAZIL TOURIST VISA
    Australia: Yes - in advance
    Belgium: Not required
    Canada: Yes - in advance
    Germany: Not required
    Ireland: Not required
    Netherlands: Not required
    New Zealand: Not required
    South Africa: Not required
    Switzerland: Not required
    United Kingdom: Not required
    United States: Yes - in advance
  • Brazil visas normally expire within 90 days of being issued. If you are unable to process this visa prior to the starting day of your trip, Quito will be the last opportunity you will have to obtain your visa.

    To do this, will you need to arrive in Quito before trip starts, as this process may take up to 8 working days. The Brazilian embassy is located at Avenida Amazonas 1429 (corner with Colon st) floor 9 and 10. Phone (5932) 255 6252, office hours from 9am to 1pm. (except public holidays). In order to process a visa you will need to provide the
    following:
    a- a passport valid for at least 6 months
    b- 1 passport size photo
    c- A copy of the itinerary of your trip
    (http://tripeditor.intrepidtravel.com/previewTripNotes.php?idTrip=3053)
    d- A ticket to exit Brazil
    e- A copy of your recent bank statement
    f- USD 120 for the visa issue fee (Please note this fee may change at no
    notice)
    e- A completed visa form
    (http://www.embajadadelbrasil.org.ec/imagesFTP/3323.form_visto.doc)

Shortlist

No trips.

Brazil at a glance

  • 35
  • Brasilia (population 1.8 million)
  • 203 million
  • Portuguese
  • BRL
  • (GMT-03:00) Brasilia
  • Type A (North American/Japanese 2-pin), Type B (American 3-pin), Type C (European 2-pin), Type I (Australian/New Zealand & Chinese/Argentine 2/3-pin)
  • +55

Subscribe to Newsletters


Inspiration straight to your inbox with travel tips, specials, travellers' experiences and a trip to win in every edition!
  • brochure request