Your ultimate Brazil story starts right here. 

Every month, we’ll spotlight a destination that’s made our travel-loving hearts skip a beat – and this month, that destination is Brazil. It’s loud, it’s proud, it’s got the rhythm of samba in its soul and the flavours of churrasco on every street corner. If you’re craving colour, culture and a travel experience that bursts with personality, a Brazil holiday package should be at the top of your list. 

Whether you’re looking to plan your next adventure or just need a serious hit of inspiration, Brazil will surprise you, excite you and leave you completely hooked. 

Key Takeouts 

1. No visa needed for South Africans visiting Brazil for up to 90 days: it’s easy to go and even easier to stay longer than planned! 
2. 10 to 14 days is the sweet spot for seeing Brazil’s best bits: from city sights and jungle stays to lazy beach days. 
3. Brazil suits every budget: great local eats, affordable internal flights (if booked smart), and incredible scenery make it a great-value destination. 
4. Best time to visit is May to October, but Carnival season (Feb/March) offers a once-in-a-lifetime celebration worth planning around. 

Why Brazil? 

Brazil is an explosion of contrasts – wild rainforest meets stylish beachfront, modern city buzz meets centuries-old traditions. It’s where you can sip caipirinhas with your feet in the sand one day and hike through dense jungle the next. 

It’s also where you’ll eat one of the best meals of your life at a family-run barbecue spot, dance with strangers during Carnival, and feel tiny standing beneath the Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio. Trust us – Brazil isn’t your average trip. Book with Thompsons for expert planning and unforgettable moments. 

Rio de Janeiro: The Showstopper 

Let’s talk about Rio. It’s chaotic, colourful, and completely captivating. The beaches (yes, Copacabana and Ipanema really are that gorgeous), the views from Sugarloaf Mountain and Christ the Redeemer, the football stadiums, the street art, the nightlife – it’s the kind of city where you’ll run out of time before you run out of things to do. 

Editor’s tip: For a crowd-free sunset, head to Parque da Catacumba in Lagoa. It’s a bit of a climb, but the panoramic views are worth it. 

Browse our unbeatable Rio de Janeiro holiday packages! 

How many days in Brazil is enough? 

This is a tough one – you could spend months exploring Brazil and still feel like you’ve only scratched the surface. But if you’re short on time, a trip of 10 to 14 days will give you a satisfying taste of what Brazil has to offer. Prioritise a mix of destinations – Rio for culture and buzz, a nature escape like the Pantanal or Amazon, and a beach retreat in Búzios or Bahia to unwind. 

If you’re lucky enough to have more time, stretch it to three weeks and throw in Iguazu Falls and Salvador for a deeper dive into Brazil’s natural and cultural diversity. 

Is Brazil cheap or expensive? 

It really depends on how you travel. Major cities like São Paulo and Rio can be pricey – especially during Carnival or New Year – but if you go slightly off the beaten track, you’ll find great value. Accommodation, transport, and food can be very reasonable, especially if you eat where the locals eat. 

Brazilian barbecue is a must – big cuts of grilled meat served with sides like rice, beans, farofa and vinaigrette. You’ll eat like royalty without blowing the budget. 

Do South Africans need a visa for Brazil? 

Not at all – South African passport holders can enter Brazil visa-free for up to 90 days for tourism. Just make sure your passport is valid for at least six months from your travel date and check any updated entry requirements before departure. 

When is the best time to go to Brazil? 

The best months to visit Brazil are between May and October – the weather is warm, drier and more comfortable, especially in areas like the Amazon and Pantanal. It’s also a great time to avoid the high prices and crowds that come with Carnival season. 

But if you are planning around Carnival (held in February or March, depending on the year), be prepared for a wild ride. The energy is electric, the parties don’t stop, and the entire country gets swept up in celebration. 

Best Places to Visit in Brazil 

You’ll never run out of Brazil attractions, but here are a few of our favourites: 

• Rio de Janeiro: It lives up to the hype. Beaches, mountains, culture, nightlife – it’s all here. 
• Iguazu Falls: One of the most powerful waterfalls on the planet. Don’t forget your poncho! 
• Salvador: Rich in Afro-Brazilian heritage, music, and colonial architecture. 
• Pantanal: Skip the crowds of the Amazon and head here for unbeatable wildlife sightings – think capybaras, caimans, toucans and even jaguars. 
• Lençóis Maranhenses: Surreal white sand dunes dotted with turquoise lagoons. Best seen June through September. 
• Florianópolis: A favourite holiday spot for Brazilians with amazing beaches and a lively island atmosphere. 

Tips for Your Brazil Travel Experience 

• Language: Portuguese is the official language. Learn a few basics – it’ll go a long way! 
• Money: Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s smart to carry some cash, especially in smaller towns. 
• Transport: Brazil is massive. Domestic flights are the best way to cover long distances. 
• Food to try: Feijoada (black bean stew), pão de queijo (cheese bread), brigadeiros (chocolate truffles), and of course – anything from a churrascaria. 

Let Thompsons Plan Your Brazil Adventure 

Brazil is big, bold and bursting with experiences – which is why it helps to have someone in the know helping you plan. Thompsons offers expertly crafted Brazil holiday packages, from sightseeing in Rio and wildlife tours in the Pantanal, to beach stays and Carnival escapes. 

Want local knowledge, handpicked accommodation and top-value rates? Let Thompsons handle your Brazil travel planning. We’ve done the hard yards so you don’t have to – with options that suit your style, your timeline, and your budget. 

Ready to feel the rhythm of Brazil? Let us turn your dream trip into a reality.