£1 R$6.78
Today
2:38 pm
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Travel warning
You should think twice about travelling to certain remote river areas in Amazonas State right now, as it's considered unsafe.
Weather & climate
Weather in Brazil
Brazil
26°
Overcast
Thu
17°
26°
Fri
17°
26°
Sat
19°
27°
Sun
19°
28°
Mon
19°
28°
Tue
17°
27°
Wed
17°
27°
SPF level in Brazil
Recommended: SPF 50+ (extreme)
Spring
SPF 50+
Summer
SPF 50+ (extreme)
Autumn
SPF 50+
Winter
SPF 50+
Suncream is often more expensive in tourist zones. Pack your preferred SPF from the UK, especially for beach holidays. Always carry travel-size (100ml max) for hand luggage.
Before you go
Entry requirements for Brazil
What British travellers need to know
Your passport must have an expiry date at least 6 months after the date you arrive in Brazil.
You can visit Brazil without a visa for up to 90 days for tourism.
If you want to extend your tourist visa, contact the Federal Police before your visa expires.
Make sure the border control officer puts a stamp in your passport to avoid a fine when you leave.
If you overstay your visa, you will face a daily fine payable when you leave or on your next visit.
Good to know:
British-Brazilian dual nationals under 18 travelling without both parents require formal travel authorisation from both parents or legal guardians.
If you are bringing cash or travellers cheques worth 10,000 US dollars or more into Brazil, you must declare it online.
Safety in Brazil
Tips when travelling
Brazil is tourist-friendly but has some key cultural and legal rules:
Do not take valuables to the beach as thefts are common, including large groups running through to grab possessions.
Avoid all favelas, including tours and accommodation, as the security situation is unpredictable and tourists have been shot.
Carry a copy of your passport and another form of photo ID with you at all times.
All electronic cigarettes and vaping devices, including parts, are illegal and will be confiscated by customs.
Do not resist if threatened during a robbery and hand over your valuables immediately, as attackers may be armed.
Bonus tips:
Take care when buying spirits like gin or vodka as there have been deaths from drinks containing methanol.
If driving, be aware that drink-driving is a serious offence with checkpoints, and penalties include fines and prison.
More information
Driving in Brazil
A UK driving license is valid for tourist purposes. An International Driving Permit is recommended but not legally required.
Side of road
right
Motorway speed limit
120 km/h
Urban speed limit
50 km/h
Alcohol limit
0.0%
Remember: Brazil drives on the right. Take extra care at junctions if you normally drive on the left.
Health in Brazil
While Brazil does have a public healthcare system, it's recommended that British tourists obtain comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses, including hospitalization and repatriation. Make sure your policy covers any pre-existing conditions and a range of activities you plan to undertake.
It's essential to consult your doctor or a travel clinic well in advance of your trip to Brazil to discuss necessary vaccinations and health precautions. Dengue fever, Zika virus, and chikungunya are transmitted by mosquitoes and are present in Brazil; take precautions to avoid mosquito bites. Drink bottled or purified water, and be cautious about food hygiene to avoid stomach problems.
Cards & payments
Credit and debit cards are accepted in many establishments, especially in larger cities and tourist destinations. However, smaller establishments may prefer cash.
Visa
High
Mastercard
High
American Express
Medium
Lost card? Call Visa: +1-303-967-1096
Tipping in Brazil
Tipping is customary in Brazil for various services, though often a service charge is already included. Check your bill carefully.
Restaurant
10-15% if service is not included. Check the bill for 'serviço' which means a 10% service charge is already included.
Bar/Café
Rounding up the bill is common.
Taxi
Rounding up the fare is appreciated.
Hotel Porter
5-10 BRL per bag.
Hotel Housekeeper
2-5 BRL per night of stay.
Tour Guide
5-10% of the tour price.
Mobile & roaming
Since Brexit, EU roaming agreements no longer apply. Check with your mobile provider for roaming charges in Brazil. Consider purchasing a local SIM card for cheaper data and calls.
Local SIM
10GB for 50 BRL (~£8)
Network coverage
4G, 5G
Electrical in Brazil
Voltage
127V / 220V / 60Hz
Plug types
Type N, Type C
WiFi & internet
WiFi is available in many hotels, restaurants, and cafes in major cities. Coverage may be more limited in rural areas.
Average speed
30 Mbps
Internet access is generally good in urban centers, with readily available WiFi. Mobile data is also a viable option.
Emergency numbers
Universal emergency
190
Ambulance
192
Fire
193
Save 190 in your phone before travelling.
Calling Brazil
Country code
+55
To call the number (21) 1234-5678 in Rio de Janeiro from the UK, you would dial 00 55 21 1234-5678.
The country code for Brazil is 55. When calling Brazil from abroad, you need to dial the exit code of the country you are calling from, followed by 55, then the area code (without the initial zero), and finally the local number.
Language in Brazil
UK Embassy
British Embassy Brasília
SES - Av. das Nações, Quadra 801, Lote 8, 70403-900
Phone
Website
Frequently asked questions
While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, AtoBeach cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies. We recommend verifying details with official sources before travelling.