Brazil
South America • BRA
Last updated: October 12, 2026
Brazil is a vibrant South American giant known for its diverse landscapes, ranging from the lush Amazon rainforest to pristine Atlantic beaches. The country offers a rich cultural experience defined by passionate music, world-famous festivals like Carnival, and a welcoming, warm-hearted population.
Visa Requirements
Citizens of many countries, including the US, Canada, and Australia, are currently exempt from tourist visa requirements for short stays.
Typically Required Documents
- Passport with at least six months of validity beyond the date of entry
- Proof of onward or return travel
- Evidence of sufficient funds to cover the stay
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate if arriving from certain countries
Popular Attractions
Christ the Redeemer is an iconic Art Deco statue atop Mount Corcovado in Rio de Janeiro, offering panoramic views of the city.
Iguazu Falls consists of hundreds of spectacular waterfalls straddling the border between Brazil and Argentina, surrounded by a lush national park.
The Amazon Rainforest provides unparalleled biodiversity and unique opportunities for river cruises and jungle trekking in the world's largest tropical forest.
Copacabana Beach is a world-famous stretch of sand in Rio de Janeiro known for its lively atmosphere, bustling promenade, and vibrant beach culture.
Pelourinho in Salvador is a historic district recognized for its colorful colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and profound Afro-Brazilian cultural influence.
Local Customs & Etiquette
Brazilians are generally very tactile and physical contact, such as a kiss on the cheek or a hug, is common during greetings.
Personal space is often smaller than in other cultures, so people may stand quite close to you while having a conversation.
Tipping is common in restaurants, where a 10% service charge is often automatically added to the bill as a 'serviço'.
Punctuality is not strictly emphasized in social settings, and arriving slightly 'late' to a dinner or party is considered normal.
Politeness is highly valued, and taking the time to greet others warmly before starting business or conversation is standard etiquette.
Dress codes in major cities can be relaxed, but maintaining a neat and groomed appearance is generally appreciated.
Safety Tips
Avoid displaying expensive jewelry, watches, or high-end cameras in public areas to minimize the risk of being targeted for theft.
Stick to well-lit and busy streets at night, and always use registered taxi apps or verified transport services rather than hailing random cabs.
Be cautious when using your smartphone in public places, as quick snatch-and-grab thefts are common in crowded areas.
Only use ATMs located inside secure banks or shopping centers during business hours to avoid skimming and physical threats.
Do not resist if you are confronted by a robber; your personal safety is far more important than any material possession.
Check with your hotel staff regarding 'no-go' areas in the city, as neighborhoods can change safety profiles block by block.
AI-generated content. Visa requirements vary by nationality — verify with the official embassy before travel.
Yellow Fever
Source: CDC
Not required when traveling directly from non-risk countries.
View sourceYellow Fever
Source: CDC
A valid International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP) is required for travelers arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission.
View sourceCore Vaccines
Routine vaccines
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up-to-date before travel, including MMR, Tdap, chickenpox, polio, and annual flu shot.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, DTaP, Polio, Varicella, Influenza)
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date before travel to any destination.
View sourceRoutine Vaccines
Source: CDC
Ensure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before every trip.
Includes MMR, Tdap, chickenpox, polio, and annual flu shot.
View sourceFood and Water Safety Precautions
Source: CDC
To prevent food and waterborne illnesses.
View sourceRoutine Vaccines (MMR, Tdap, etc.)
Source: CDC
Ensure routine vaccinations are up to date.
View sourceInfluenza
Source: CDC
Annual vaccination is recommended as flu is common in Brazil during the winter months.
View sourceMeningococcal
Source: CDC
Recommended for adults, especially for long-term stays or high-risk areas.
View sourceTdap (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis)
Source: CDC
Vaccination is recommended for adults to prevent these diseases during travel.
View sourceMMR (measles, mumps, rubella)
Source: CDC
Recommended for all travelers to protect against measles outbreaks that can occur in Brazil.
View sourceCOVID-19 vaccination
Source: CDC
Vaccination is recommended for travelers to reduce the risk of infection during travel.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, DTaP, Tdap)
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccines are up to date before travel.
View sourceFor Most Travelers
Food and water safety
Source: CDC
Preventive measures are necessary to reduce the risk of foodborne and waterborne diseases.
Eat only food that is cooked and served hot; drink only bottled, sealed, or carbonated beverages.
View sourceInsect bite prevention
Source: CDC
Essential to prevent diseases such as Malaria, Dengue, Zika, and Yellow Fever.
Use EPA-registered insect repellent, wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants, and use permethrin-treated clothing.
View sourceFood and Water Safety
Source: CDC
Crucial to prevent travelers' diarrhea and other foodborne diseases.
Drink only bottled or boiled water and avoid uncooked foods.
View sourceCOVID-19 Vaccination
Source: CDC
Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccinations as advised.
View sourceFood and water safety precautions
Source: CDC
Prevent gastrointestinal illnesses by consuming safe food and water.
Drink only bottled or boiled water and avoid uncooked foods.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, Tdap, etc.)
Source: CDC
Make sure you are up to date on routine vaccines before your trip.
View sourceMalaria prophylaxis (if traveling to high-risk areas)
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers going to areas of Brazil where malaria is present, especially Amazon region.
Check specific areas for high risk.
View sourceMalaria prevention measures
Source: CDC
In areas with malaria risk; preventive measures are advised.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers who may have exposure to blood or bodily fluids.
View sourceInsect bite prevention (e.g., using repellent, wearing long sleeves)
Source: CDC
Essential to prevent mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue and Zika.
View sourceTyphoid
Source: CDC
Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended for most travelers due to the risk of exposure through food or water.
View sourceItinerary-Specific
Hepatitis B
Source: CDC
Considered for travelers who may have sexual contact with new partners, get a tattoo or piercing, or undergo medical procedures.
View sourceYellow Fever
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers aged 9 months or older visiting areas with risk of yellow fever transmission.
Risk is primarily in specific states and regions of Brazil.
View sourceMeningococcal vaccine
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers going to Brazil during certain events like pilgrimage or large gatherings.
View sourceCOVID-19 precautions
Source: CDC
Due to ongoing COVID-19 concerns, it's important to follow safety protocols and guidelines.
Check local regulations and guidelines.
View sourceMalaria prophylaxis
Source: CDC
If traveling to certain rural areas, it is advisable to take malaria prophylaxis as a preventive measure.
Consult a healthcare provider for specific recommendations.
View sourceFood and water safety precautions
Source: CDC
To minimize risk of gastroenteritis and other waterborne diseases.
View sourceInsect bite prevention
Source: CDC
Important to prevent diseases like dengue and Zika which are transmitted by mosquitoes.
View sourceCOVID-19 vaccinations depending on local requirements
Source: CDC
Stay updated on local COVID-19 measures and vaccinations required for travel.
View sourceMeningococcal
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers visiting regions with outbreaks or specific risks.
View sourceRabies
Source: CDC
Considered for travelers involved in outdoor activities or working with animals.
View sourceCholera
Source: CDC
Consider for travelers going to areas with active cholera outbreaks.
View sourceRabies
Source: CDC
Consider for travelers who may be exposed to animals or partake in outdoor activities in remote areas.
View sourceRisk Area: Amazon region (Acre, Amapá, Amazonas, Maranhão, Mato Grosso, Pará, Rondônia, Roraima, and Tocantins)
Chemoprophylaxis: Atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, or mefloquine
Seasonality: Year-round
View sourceRisk Area: Amazon region
Chemoprophylaxis: Atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, or mefloquine
Seasonality: Year-round
View sourceRisk Area: Amazon region (includes states of Acre, Amapá, Amazonas, Maranhão, Mato Grosso, Pará, Rondônia, Roraima, and Tocantins)
Chemoprophylaxis: Atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, or mefloquine
Seasonality: Year-round
View source