Brazil spans the equator to the subtropics, and its seasons are the reverse of the Northern Hemisphere’s: summer runs from December to March, winter from June to August. For most trips combining Rio, the coast and Iguaçu, the sweet spots are April–June and September–November.
By region
Rio de Janeiro and the Costa Verde
- Summer (Dec–Mar): Hot, humid and sometimes very rainy, though beach life is at its best. Prices spike over Christmas, New Year and Carnival.
- Autumn (Apr–Jun) and spring (Sep–Nov): Comfortable temperatures, less rain and fewer crowds. Ideal for hiking Pedra da Gávea or Corcovado and for beaches.
- Winter (Jun–Aug): Dry and mild (around 20–25°C). The sea can be cool, but sightseeing is excellent and views from Sugarloaf and Corcovado are clearer.
Salvador and the Bahia coast
Warm all year, with temperatures around 25–30°C.
- September–March: Driest and sunniest.
- April–July: The rainiest period, with showers but warm weather. Prices drop.
- Carnival in Salvador is huge and street-based. Book far in advance.
- 2 July (Bahia Independence Day) and the June São João festivities are lively regional events.
Iguaçu Falls
The falls flow all year. Water volume depends on rainfall.
- December–March: Highest flow. Impressive, but also hotter and humid, and sometimes spray reduces visibility.
- April–October: Milder temperatures and good conditions for trails.
- Very heavy flooding can close walkways. Check the park website before you go.
The Amazon
- High-water season (Dec–May): Boat access deep into flooded forest, with good birdwatching from canoes.
- Low-water season (Jun–Nov): More trails open for walking, and beaches appear along the river.
- It’s hot and humid year-round.
The Pantanal
- Dry season (Jun–Oct): Best for wildlife viewing, including jaguars. Animals gather around remaining water.
- Wet season (Nov–Mar): Flooded plains and many birds, but fewer roads are passable.
The south and São Paulo
São Paulo is mild year-round, with a rainier summer. The southern states (Santa Catarina, Rio Grande do Sul) have cool winters, and the Serra Gaúcha can see frost.
The northeast beaches and Lençóis Maranhenses
Fortaleza and the northeast coast are sunny from July to January. The Lençóis Maranhenses lagoons fill after the rains and are best from June to September.
Carnival and events
- Carnival (February or early March): Rio’s Sambadrome parades and street blocos draw huge crowds. Book accommodation six to twelve months ahead and expect highest prices.
- Réveillon (31 December): Massive beach celebration in Rio.
- Festas Juninas (June): Rural-style festivals across the northeast.
- Festival of Parintins (late June): An Amazon folk spectacle.
Summary table
| Destination | Best months |
|---|---|
| Rio de Janeiro | Apr–Jun, Sep–Nov |
| Salvador and Bahia | Sep–Mar |
| Iguaçu Falls | Mar–Oct (high water Dec–Mar) |
| Pantanal (wildlife) | Jun–Oct |
| Amazon | Year-round, depending on goals |
| Lençóis Maranhenses | Jun–Sep |
Tips
- Book flights and hotels early for Carnival, New Year and July school holidays.
- Pack light, breathable clothes, a rain jacket and sunscreen. Add a warm layer for the south in winter.
- Bring insect repellent for the Amazon and Pantanal.
- Check health advice about yellow fever vaccination for certain regions.
- Build in flexibility. Tropical rain tends to come in short, heavy bursts.
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