Brazil Trips & Tours

International flights Brazil has a number of major hubs used by international travellers including Guarulhos International Airport (GRU) in São Paulo and Galeão International Airport (GIG) in Rio de Janeiro. Naturally, the best option will depend on where you’re planning to go next. There are direct flights into both airports from countries including the USA and UK, as well as multiple regions across Europe and Latin America. We would recommend booking your flights online in order to get the best rates. If you need any help or advice please let us know. Domestic travel As you’re probably aware, Brazil is huge, which means domestic flights will be your ally on cross-country trips. However, most destinations also require a significant transfer by road, which will be done by a private driver or guide. For instance, in the northern Pantanal, you will fly into Cuiabá, followed by a 2-hour drive to the beginning of the famous Transpantaneira road, which you’ll use to navigate the region.

Yellow Fever is prevalent throughout Brazil, but specifically in regions like the Amazon, Pantanal and Iguazu Falls. Proof of vaccination is required by many countries on your return from Brazil, so it’s vital to carry this with you. Other recommended vaccinations include Hepatitis A, Typhoid and rabies. However, please consult your personal physician and/or a travel clinic preferably 6 weeks prior to your departure. Vaccine requirements vary based on your country of origin and your travel itinerary, as well as your previous vaccination history. It is best to consult with your physician or the CDC website for guidelines. Certain mosquito-borne illnesses are present in parts of Brazil and can be avoided with consistent use of insect repellent (50% DEET) and wearing layers. If you are visiting a high-risk malaria zone such as the Amazon, be sure to take antimalarial tablets as recommended by your doctor. While most hotels have a first aid kit, we advise taking a basic one of your own as well as any prescriptions / medication you may need. It is important to avoid drinking or brushing your teeth with tap water; rather stick to bottled or trusted filtered water. In small towns or at street stalls, it may also be safer to avoid having ice in your drinks. When buying fresh produce, be sure to wash it with your own water as well. Communication Brazil country code: +55 Calling overseas from Brazil: Dial 00 followed by the country code, area code and cell phone number.

Money Brazil’s official currency is the Real (plural: Reais) or R$. In terms of exchanging currencies, banks and exchange bureaus (Casas de Câmbio) are best, and US dollars or Euros are the easiest to exchange. ATMs are widely available throughout cities and towns but they don’t all accept foreign cards – look out for international networks like Banco do Brasil, Bradesco, Itaú, Santander. Visa, Mastercard and Amex are also widely accepted. Gratuities Gratuities are not compulsory or expected; rather it is a reward for excellent service. If you are pleased with the service you receive, you are more than welcome to tip your guide or the staff. Tipping is usually done at the end of your stay. You may tip the staff individually, give the tip to the manager to distribute, or do both. Gratuities suggestions: Guides: R$50 - 75 per person (half-day); R$100 - 200 per person (full-day). Private drivers: R$20 - 50 depending on the length of service. Porters: R$5 - 10 per bag. Housekeeping: R$5 - 10 per day (leave in room or at reception). A 10% service charge (gorjeta) is usually included in the bill, but if not, a 10% tip is customary. Rounding up small bills is also common.

It is a condition of booking that you carry the correct comprehensive travel and medical insurance to cover yourself, as well as any dependents/travelling companions for the duration of your trip. This insurance should include cover in respect of, but not limited to, the following eventualities: Compulsory Insurance: a. Emergency evacuation expenses b. Medical expenses c. Repatriation expenses Recommended Insurance: a. Cancellation or curtailment of trip b. Damage/theft/loss of personal luggage, money and goods

As a general precaution, we recommend you make several copies of your travel-related documents (passport, credit cards, itinerary, airline tickets, insurance cover, visas, etc). Leave one set at home, and bring another set with you, and place it in a location separate from your originals. You may need to present any relevant travel-related documents at any time on the trip. Travellers from certain countries don’t require a visa to visit Brazil, as long as their stay is no longer than 90 days. This includes most of Latin America, the UK and much of Europe and South Africa. Travellers from other countries such as the USA, Canada and Australia do require a visa, which can be done online for approximately USD $80 and will be valid for up to 90 days. This can be done here - https://brazil.vfsevisa.com/. Those not included in visa-free entry or the e-visa option will need to apply for a tourist visa at a Brazilian consulate before travelling. All travellers are required to carry the following: - A passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of departure - Proof of an onward or return ticket - Proof of accommodation or sufficient funds (this may be requested)

Brazil’s weather differs greatly from region to region, and you should pack accordingly based on your itinerary. From the steamy Amazon to the idyllic coast and mega-watt cities, you’ll want to pack for all occasions (without overdoing it, of course). Below is a rough guide on what to pack: - Lightweight, breathable clothes that you can use for layering - Long-sleeved shirts and light trousers (especially if you’re visiting the Amazon or Pantanal) - Warm layer (fleece or sweater) - Light rain jacket (especially if you’re visiting the Amazon, Pantanal or Iguazu Falls) - Something nice for evenings out - Swimwear - Comfortable walking shoes - Sturdy hiking shoes (if applicable) - Sandals or flip-flops - A wide-brimmed hat or cap, sunglasses & high-SPF sunscreen - Toiletries including insect repellent, hand sanitizer and wipes - A first aid kit and any prescription or required medication - Electronics, chargers, batteries and adapters. Brazil uses types N and C, and the voltage varies between 110V & 220V depending on the region. - Backpack, waterproof pouch and reusable water bottle Luggage Please check with your airlines for the specific luggage restrictions relevant to your flight schedule. Many international airlines have a baggage allowance of 20kgs or more per person and commercial airlines generally permit two (2) pieces of checked luggage. The carry-on bag must be of such dimensions and weight as set by the airlines.