When should you visit Brazil? The best time to visit each region of Brazil

Brazil is a vast and diverse country, covering over 8.5 million square kilometers, making it the largest nation in South America and the fifth-largest in the world. Due to its sheer size, Brazil encompasses a variety of climates, ranging from the tropical rainforest in the Amazon to the temperate regions in the South. This geographical diversity means that different parts of the country experience different weather patterns, and the best time to visit depends on where you plan to go and what you want to do.

Brazil is located in the Southern Hemisphere, which means its seasons are opposite to those in the Northern Hemisphere.

• Summer lasts from December to February, bringing hot and humid weather in many regions, while winter occurs from June to August, with cooler temperatures in the south.

• Spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) offer more moderate conditions, making them great times for travel in various parts of the country.

Whether you're looking for sunny beach days, wildlife spotting or birdwatching, or attending festivals and events, understanding Brazil’s seasons and weather can help you plan and prepare for the perfect trip.

Ready to plan your trip? > Check out my packing check-list for Brazil > Book cheap accommodation in Brazil > Book cheap bus tickets around Brazil

So, what is the best time of year to visit Brazil?

Here’s a breakdown of the best time to visit different regions of Brazil based on climate (summer and winter), weather (rainy and dry seasons), and the high and low seasons for tourism.

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• Best time to visit the Amazon Rainforest (Northern Brazil)

• Best time to visit the Northeast (Bahia, Pernambuco, Ceará, and Rio Grande do Norte)

• Best time to visit Brasília and Goiás (Central Region)

• Best time to visit the Pantanal

• Best time to visit Southeast Brazil (Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, and Minas Gerais)

• Best time to visit the South of Brazil (Paraná, Santa Catarina, and Rio Grande do Sul)

Best time to visit the Amazon Rainforest (Northern Brazil)

• Best Time to Visit: June to November

• Climate: Tropical, hot, and humid year-round

The Amazon Rainforest experiences two main seasons: the rainy season (December to May) and the dry season (June to November). While the rainforest is lush and full of life year-round, the dry season is preferable for travelers as there’s less rain, making trails more accessible and wildlife easier to spot. Boat excursions are still possible as the rivers remain navigable, and there are fewer mosquitoes compared to the wet season.

Best time to visit Brazil's Northeast (Bahia, Pernambuco, Ceará, and Rio Grande do Norte)

• Best Time to Visit: September to February

• Climate: Tropical with a dry and rainy season

The Northeast region of Brazil is famous for its beautiful beaches, seafood-focused cuisine and afro-Brazilian culture. Bahia specifically experiences a rainy season from April to July, with the heaviest rainfall occurring in May and June. The dry season runs from August to March, making it the best time to visit for sunny weather and beach activities.

This period also aligns with some of Brazil’s biggest celebrations, including Carnival. If you’re looking to avoid crowds and high prices, traveling just before or after peak season (September–October or late March–April) is a great option.

Best time to visit Brasília and Goiás (Central Region)

• Best Time to Visit: May to September

• Climate: Tropical savanna with wet and dry seasons

Brasília, the capital of Brazil, and the state of Goiás experience a tropical savanna climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The best time to visit is during the dry season (May to September), when temperatures are comfortable and there’s little rainfall, making sightseeing and outdoor activities more enjoyable. The region is known for its modernist architecture, national parks, and waterfalls, which are best explored during the drier months. It is also home to Chapada dos Veadeiros a national park with some of Brazil's most incredible waterfalls.

Best time to visit the Pantanal Wetland

• Best Time to Visit: May to September (later in the north)

• Climate: Tropical wetland with a wet and dry season

The Pantanal, the world’s largest tropical wetland, offers distinct experiences depending on the season. The Pantanal is divided into two main regions: North and South. The northern Pantanal, accessed through Cuiabá, is known for its scenic Transpantaneira Road, offering excellent wildlife viewing opportunities along the way. The southern Pantanal, accessible via Campo Grande, provides more immersive experiences through lodges and boat safaris. Depending on your interests, both regions offer unique ways to explore the Pantanal.

The best time to visit is the dry season - from April to September in the southern Pantanal, and starting a little later in the northern Pantanal (Cuiabá region), where the dry season extends by one or two months.

In most years, water levels start to recede in April, which traps fish in puddles and small lakes, attracting birds in large numbers. This makes early dry season (April–May) an excellent time for birdwatching. Later into the dry season, from June to July, conditions become even drier, creating ideal wildlife spotting opportunities as animals gather around remaining water sources.

Best time to visit Southeast Brazil (Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, and Minas Gerais)

• Best Time to Visit: March to June and September to November

• Climate: Subtropical with warm summers and cool winters

Rio de Janeiro is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is during the shoulder seasons (March to June and September to November). During these months, temperatures are comfortable, and there are fewer tourists than in the peak summer months (December to February). If you want to experience Rio’s famous Carnival, plan your trip in February or early March, but be prepared for crowds and high prices.

São Paulo and Minas Gerais have similar climates, with cooler winters and warm summers. Again, the best time to visit is the shoulder seasons when the temperatures are more moderate and prices are lower.

Best time to visit the South of Brazil (Paraná, Santa Catarina, and Rio Grande do Sul)

Santa Catarina, Brazil

• Best Time to Visit: March to May and September to November

• Climate: Temperate with four distinct seasons

The southern states experience a more temperate climate, with hot summers and cool winters. The best time to visit is in the fall (March to May) or spring (September to November) when temperatures are moderate, and outdoor activities are enjoyable. If you want to experience the Brazilian winter, visit in June or July, especially in places like Gramado, which even sees occasional snowfall.

Ready to plan your trip?

Brazil offers diverse climates and attractions throughout the year, so the best time to visit depends on your destination and interests. If you're looking for beaches and festivals, visit the Northeast and Southeast during their dry seasons.

For wildlife adventures, the dry season in the Pantanal or Amazon is best. If you prefer cooler temperatures, head to the South during the fall or spring. Regardless of when you go, Brazil’s vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality make it a fantastic destination any time of year.

More resources for planning your trip to Brazil

• Find cheap bus, ferry, and private transfer tickets on Bookaway, where you can make reservations ahead of time from abroad. Or, rent a car and give yourself the freedom to explore at your own pace.

• Find your perfect accommodation on Booking.com, with thousands of options ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly backpacker hostels

• You're not ready to travel until you have travel insurance. I recommend Safety Wing to my friends, family, and anyone travelling internationally. Get a free quote

• Forgetting something? Read my packing check-list for Brazil, and my list of 10 things you should do before you travel to Brazil