When to go to Brazil?

Antoine's tips, Brazil expert

Brazil is subject to different climate according to its regions. Being located in the southern hemisphere, the country experiences rather hot summers that stretch from September to March with temperatures exceeding 86°F. The winter, from June to September, is never very cold and the temperatures remain rather mild.

It is difficult to determine the best period for a trip to Brazil, as the country is large and therefore subject to regional variations in climate. It is the fifth largest country in the world and can be divided into several climatic zones:
- The Amazon: This is the wettest and hottest region in Brazil. Rain showers can be very violent, especially between December and May. Maximum temperatures are around 86°F throughout the year and rarely fall below 71°F. The period from June to October is the most favourable because it rarely rains; this is the dry season.

- Salvador and Bahia: The climate is much drier in this part of the country. Peak temperatures are high throughout the year, ranging from 82°F in winter (July), to 87°F in January (the summer). Note that rains are more frequent between April and July and it is better to avoid this period for a stay in this part of the country. Take advantage of September to November to enjoy lower temperatures and lower rainfall. Here you can enjoy beautiful beaches, among the most beautiful in Brazil, including the praia Porto da Barra. The temperature of the water is very pleasant and varies between 82°F and 86°F throughout the year. A treat for swimmers!

- Rio de Janeiro and the surrounding region: The dry season coincides with the winter and lasts from June to August. Temperatures are rather pleasant, around 77°F with low rainfall. In summer, especially during the months of December to March, temperatures are very high, exceeding 86°F. This is also the rainy season, when rain falls most days at the end of the day. It is at this time that the famous carnival in Rio takes place. For swimming, the water temperature varies between 71°F during the dry season and 80°F in March. The best time to visit Rio would be the dry season but the sea is a still a little cool. To enjoy a warmer sea and the Carnaval, schedule your trip for February. But beware, the beaches are crowded and hotel prices are often very high.

- The south coast: In the south, winters from June to September are mild with highs around 73°F and summers are hotter with temperatures that can exceed 86°F. Precipitation is less frequent than in other parts of the country. The further south, the cooler the temperatures. It is difficult to bathe in winter, because the water temperature is around 60°F between July and September. In summer, it reaches its maximum of 77°F in February.

Overall Brazil can be visited throughout the year but with a preference for the months from June to September. During this period, the temperatures are not too high and you will avoid the rains the intense summer rains. April, however, is our favourite month: the summer rains are over, the temperatures are still warm and above all, the water temperature is still very pleasant.