Brazil
South America • BRA
Last updated: September 12, 2026
Brazil is a vibrant and culturally diverse nation known for its stunning natural landscapes, ranging from the lush Amazon rainforest to world-renowned beaches. It offers a unique blend of energetic urban life, festive traditions like Carnival, and a rich historical heritage.
Visa Requirements
Citizens of many Western countries, including the US, Canada, and Australia, may require an e-visa or visitor visa for tourism depending on the latest government policy updates.
Typically Required Documents
- Valid passport with at least six months of remaining validity
- Proof of onward or return travel
- Completed visa application form if required
- Proof of sufficient funds for the stay
- Recent passport-sized photograph
Popular Attractions
Christ the Redeemer: This iconic Art Deco statue stands atop Mount Corcovado in Rio de Janeiro, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city.
Iguazu Falls: A massive system of 275 waterfalls spanning the border between Brazil and Argentina, surrounded by subtropical rainforests.
Amazon Rainforest: The world's largest tropical rainforest provides unparalleled opportunities for wildlife spotting, river cruises, and eco-tourism.
Copacabana and Ipanema Beaches: Famous stretches of sand in Rio de Janeiro, known for their lively atmosphere, sports, and social culture.
Pelourinho, Salvador: A historic district filled with colorful colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and the vibrant Afro-Brazilian culture.
Local Customs & Etiquette
Brazilians are generally very tactile and social; a kiss on the cheek or a firm handshake is a standard way to greet people.
Punctuality is often flexible in social settings, where arriving slightly late is generally accepted and not considered rude.
Dress is generally casual but can be stylish; however, beachwear should be confined strictly to the beach area.
When invited to someone's home, it is polite to bring a small gift such as flowers, chocolates, or a bottle of wine.
Tipping is appreciated in restaurants, where a 10 percent service charge is often included, though you can add a little extra for exceptional service.
Sharing a meal or drink is a central part of social life, and declining an invitation without a good reason can sometimes be seen as impolite.
Safety Tips
Avoid displaying expensive jewelry, cameras, or smartphones in public, as petty theft can be common in crowded tourist areas.
Use only official taxis or reputable ride-sharing apps like Uber rather than hailing random cars on the street.
Stay in well-lit, populated areas and avoid walking alone at night, especially on deserted beaches.
Keep your passport and large amounts of cash in a secure hotel safe, carrying only a copy of your ID and necessary funds.
Be cautious when using ATMs; try to use them inside bank branches during daylight hours and be wary of anyone offering help.
Research your destination thoroughly to identify areas that should be avoided, as crime rates can fluctuate between neighborhoods.
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
Proof of vaccination 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 prevent common preventable diseases.
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
Travelers should take precautions to avoid contaminated food and water to prevent diarrheal diseases.
Eat only food that is cooked and served hot; drink bottled or disinfected water.
View sourceInsect bite prevention
Source: CDC
Necessary to prevent diseases such as Zika, Dengue, Chikungunya, and Malaria.
Use EPA-registered insect repellent, wear long-sleeved clothing, and use permethrin-treated gear.
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 visiting smaller cities, rural areas, or those who are adventurous eaters.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended for most travelers due to risk through contaminated 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 visiting areas with risk of yellow fever transmission.
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 and other activities in remote areas that put them at risk of animal bites.
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