September and October are the best months to visit. 

• Summer: January to March;
• Autumn: April to June;
• Winter: July to September;
• Spring: October to December.

• Flight duration from Johannesburg to Sao Paulo direct: 10 hours, 30 minutes. Johannesburg to Rio de Janeiro: 13 hours, 20 minutes with one stopover.  
• There are reasonably regular flights from South Africa to Brazil. 

• South African passport holders do not require a visa to enter Brazil.  
• Visa free entry into Brazil is for a maximum of 90 days. 
• Passports must be valid for 6 months after departure from Brazil.  

• Brazil is 5 hours behind South Africa.  

• The official currency is the Brazilian Real (BRL).  
• Credit cards are widely accepted and ATMs are prevalent. 
• Cash is king in Brazil, so use cash, especially in smaller towns. 
• Tipping is customary in Brazil. At hotels, tip porters, room service, maids and bellboys. 

• The official language is Portuguese. 
• English is not widely spoken. It’s a good idea to learn a few phrases in Portuguese so that you can communicate easier. 

Brush up on basic Portuguese phrases for Brazil, like:

• Olá! – Hello!
• Por favor – Please
• Obrigado/Obrigada – Thank you (male/female)
• Quanto custa? – How much is it?

• Catholicism is the main religion in Brazil. 
• When visiting sacred sites and temples, dress conservatively. (See ‘What to pack’).

• It is generally safe to drink tap water in Brazil, but the taste isn’t great. Bottled or filtered water is readily available.  
• Many public restrooms charge a small fee for use, so keep change on hand for this. 
• Smoking is not permitted in public areas such as restaurants, bars and indoor work places as well as on public transport. Airports offer designated smoking rooms.  
• Some areas may require Yellow Fever vaccinations. Mosquito repellent is a must in tropical regions.

Is Brazil a good holiday destination?
Absolutely. It’s packed with culture, scenery, food, and fun.

What month is best to go to Brazil?
May to September is the best time to visit Brazil for fewer crowds and good weather.

Is Brazil safe for tourists right now?
Brazil is safe in many areas but, like any large country, it’s smart to stay informed and be cautious, especially in cities.

Do you need a visa to go to Brazil?
No, South African passport holders do not need a visa to visit Brazil.

How many days are enough for Brazil?
We recommend at least 10–14 days to see the highlights, or longer if you’re adding islands or the Amazon.

What do I need to know before I go to Brazil?
Brush up on some basic Portuguese phrases and plan for internal flights if covering a lot of ground.

Do's and Don’ts in Brazil?
Do try the food, be friendly, and respect local customs. Don’t assume everyone speaks English or wander alone at night in unfamiliar areas.

What do I need when travelling to Brazil?
A valid passport and comprehensive travel insurance.

How long is the flight to Brazil?
Roughly 11–14 hours, depending on your route.

Is food expensive in Brazil?
Not necessarily. Local eateries, comida a quilo (buffets by weight), and street food are very affordable – and delicious!

Is there a direct flight from South Africa to Brazil?
There are limited direct options, but flights with one stop (in Europe or the Middle East) are widely available.

With expert travel consultants, tailored Brazil holiday packages, and support every step of the way, we’ll help you uncover the best of Brazil – from tropical islands to colourful carnivals. Whether it’s the food, the music, or the natural beauty that draws you in, one thing’s certain: Brazil leaves a lasting impression. Build your trip with Thompsons Holidays today.