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When to visit Brazil

The best time to visit Brazil is really dependent on the wildlife you wish to see although the peak season is from December to February. As Brazil’s temperate climate means it is more than pleasant most of the year, some areas of the country with particular wildlife sightings are better at certain times. As Brazil is situated in the southern hemisphere, the seasons are reversed, and makes for a perfect winter getaway for those living in the northern hemisphere.

There are a variety of experiences that bring travellers to Brazil, least of all the renowned beaches. It is possible to find a good beach at any time of the year, but it is ideal to avoid more southerly beaches during the winter months. Equally as famous is Carnival which is celebrated throughout Brazil typically during February or early March. This is also a great time to visit Rio de Janeiro although winter is still a great time to visit as the days are milder but nights can become a little chilly.

Sl Brazil Pie Aerts
Sl Brazil Pie Aerts

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The best time to visit Brazil


  • JAN
  • FEB
  • MAR
  • APR
  • MAY
  • JUN
  • JUL
  • AUG
  • SEP
  • OCT
  • NOV
  • DEC

As January is mid-summer in Brazil you can expect warm temperatures throughout the country and it can be quite busy. As birding is excellent all year round you can see everything from toucans and hyacinth macaws, to jabiru storks whilst other wildlife may be harder to find. It is part of the rainy season, so you can expect some downpours in January too. For the sheer power of Iguassu Falls, January is a good time to visit too.



December to May

Brazil’s summer season lasts from December to May and is unsurprisingly also the most popular. It is the best time to swim and contains the main holidays and festivals for the country. It is the hottest time of the year but also some of the wettest although the afternoon downpours provide respite from the humid conditions, especially in the Amazon.

June to November

Although a quieter time around the country, the dry season is optimal for wildlife sightings, with giant anteaters, jaguars, giant river otters and maned wolves all more easily spotted during the dry season. However, due to the climate of Brazil, the cities and other areas are still fine to visit during this time too.

If you want to see jaguars in the Pantanal

Tracking the elusive jaguar through the pantanal is an incredible experience and the optimum time to do this is from June until October.

If you want visit Iguassu Falls

These impressive waterfalls that straddle Brazil and Argentina are good to visit all year round. However with milder temperatures in September and October, these are good times to visit the largest crowds and the most heat and you can get some incredible images at this time. However, January is the best time to really experience the raw power of the falls due to the volume of high power water.

Things to do in Brazil

Search for the elusive Jaguar in the Pantanal Wetlands

Head out on the river banks of the Pantanal to see jaguars hunting down capybaras, as they struggle to establish who is at the top of the local food chain. Explore the winding, wildlife-rich waterways of the Three Brothers, Cuiabá and Piquiri Rivers by boat, observing giant river otters, caimans, and a multitude of bird species in the world's largest tropical wetland area. The Pantanal Wetlands are better during the dry season between June and November as wildlife activity increases in areas of diminishing water which leads to better sightings.

Amazon River Cruises

Experience the Amazon River and its tributaries on a river cruise. You'll have the opportunity to see pink river dolphins, piranhas, various turtle and unique fish species.

Birdwatching

Brazil boasts over 1,800 bird species. Explore various regions, including the Pantanal, the Atlantic Forest, and the Cerrado, to spot toucans, macaws, harpy eagles, and more.

Explore the Amazon Rainforest

The Amazon rainforest is one of the world's most diverse ecosystems. Take guided jungle treks, boat tours, and canopy walks to spot wildlife like jaguars, monkeys, sloths, and colourful birds. The unbelievable Amazon Rainforest is possible to visit all year round, with each season bringing something slightly different. During the rainy season between November and March, the floods create varzeas which allow for navigation in canoes between the trunks of the trees, an experience unique all on its own.