Brazil, famous for its vibrant culture, exotic landscapes, and historic cities, stands out as a must-visit destination in South America. At Responsible Travel, we provide all the information you need to make your trip to this incredible country safe and enjoyable.
Entry and Exit Requirements
Entrance:
- Documents: Valid passport or valid identity document from the country of origin (valid for travel within MERCOSUR). Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa to enter Brazil.
- Vaccines: No mandatory vaccines are required for entry, although the yellow fever vaccine is recommended if visiting the Chaco or areas near the jungle.
Exit:
- Valid passport, or valid national identity document from the country of origin.
- Entry stamp affixed to the travel document presented by the foreign national upon entering the national territory.
List of Countries That Do Not Require a Visa to Enter Brazil
Citizens of some countries need a visa to enter Brazil, such as those from Australia, Canada, and the United States. However, if your country of nationality is not on the list, you will need to apply for a visitor visa (VIVIS):
| Albania | Alemania | Andorra |
| Antigua y Barbuda | Argentina | Armenia |
| Australia | Austria | Bahamas |
| Barbados | Bélgica | Belice |
| Bielorrusia | Bolivia | Bosnia y Herzegovina |
| Bulgaria | Canada | Catar |
| Chile | Chipre | Colombia |
| South Korea | Costa Rica | Croacia |
| Dinamarca | Ecuador | El Salvador |
| Emiratos Árabes | Eslovaquia | Eslovenia |
| España | Estados Unidos de América | Estonia |
| Philippines | Finlandia | Fiyi |
| Francia | Georgia | Granada |
| Grecia | Guatemala | Guyana |
| Honduras | Hong Kong | Hungría |
| Indonesia | Irlanda | Islandia |
| Israel | Italia | Jamaica |
| Japan | Kazajistán | Letonia |
| Liechtenstein | Lituania | Luxemburgo |
| Macao | Macedonia | Malaysia |
| Malta | Marruecos | México |
| Moldova | Mónaco | Mongolia |
| Montenegro | Namibia | Nicaragua |
| Noruega | New Zealand | Países Bajos |
| Panamá | Paraguay | Peru |
| Polonia | Portugal | Reino Unido |
| República Checa | República Dominicana | Rumania |
| Rusia | San Cristóbal y Nieves | San Marino |
| San Vicente | Serbia | Seychelles |
| Singapore | Soberana Orden de Malta | Sudáfrica |
| Suecia | Suiza | Surinam |
| Tailandia | Trinidad y Tobago | Túnez |
| Turquia | Ucrania | Uruguay |
| Vaticano | Venezuela |
Language
The official language of Brazil is Portuguese, with local differences in pronunciation and vocabulary. English and Spanish are not widely spoken outside tourist areas. At Responsible Travel, we are trained to provide the best experience for travelers. For this reason, our team of guides is bilingual, as are most of our providers (hotels and restaurants).
Time Zone
Brazil has 4 time zones:
- UTC -5: Acre and a small part of Amazonas
- UTC -2: Islands such as Fernando de Noronha.
- UTC -3: Brasilia Standard Time, covering most of the country.
- UTC -4: Regions such as Amazonas and Mato Grosso.
Currency
The official currency of Brazil is the Brazilian Real (BRL). It is easy to exchange US dollars and euros at currency exchange offices and ATMs available in major cities. In addition, credit cards are accepted in urban and tourist areas, but it is always advisable to carry cash for expenses in markets and rural areas. Tipping is not mandatory, but it is appreciated in restaurants and tourist services.
Connectivity
Regarding connectivity, Wi-Fi is free in hotels, restaurants, and some cafes with purchase; however, keep in mind that in rural areas it may be a bit slow. Operators such as Claro, TIM, Vivo, and Oi offer prepaid SIM cards with mobile data for tourists. Note that cellular signal is available in urban areas and main roads, but irregular in the Amazon region.
Plugs and Adapters
In Brazil, type N plugs and sockets are used, as the mains voltage ranges from 127V to 220V depending on the region, with a frequency of 60 Hz.
We always recommend bringing your own adapter if you use a different type of plug or socket. However, Responsible Travel includes an adapter for each traveler from countries with European plugs as part of the welcome package.
Health and Safety
Recommended Vaccines
- Hepatitis A, typhoid fever, and tetanus are recommended if you travel to rural areas. Yellow fever (recommended for jungle regions).
Diseases
- Dengue, zika y chikunguña: Present in warm areas and other specific zones, it is recommended to use DEET-based repellent, and wear long-sleeved clothing and mosquito nets.
- Malaria: Present in some regions of the Amazon.
UV Rays and Altitude
- UV Rays: Solar radiation can be intense. Use sunscreen, sunglasses, and appropriate clothing.
- Altitude: The main cities of Brazil are at sea level; there is no risk of altitude sickness.
Healthcare System
Brazil has a public healthcare system that is free of charge, but it may be overwhelmed in urban areas. Facilities in rural regions can be limited. It is essential to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, especially if you plan to engage in high-risk activities, as private services can be expensive. Pharmacies are available throughout the country and are well stocked.
Emergency Numbers
- Tourist Assistance: 0800-285-0555
- National Police: 190
- Ambulances: 192
- Fire Department: 193
