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Summer in Brazil is a time of pure joy and adventure. From the electric intensity of Rio de Janeiro to the tranquil beauty of the Amazon rainforest, there is no shortage of breathtaking sceneries and exciting activities to explore. Whether you wish to soak up the sun on the world-famous beaches of Ipanema or dance the night away at a carnival, a trip to Brazil in summer is filled with endless joy and possibilities. Summer also offers an incredible opportunity for visitors to explore the lush jungle and wildlife in Brazil, whose sheer size offers an amazing array of biodiversity.

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Weather and Temperature in Brazil During Summer

Aerial view of Porto Alegre during summer in Brazil.
Experience the warmth and dryness in Porto Alegre during summer in Brazil.

The summer season in Brazil runs from December through March and is characterized by warm and humid weather interspersed by rainfall. The average temperatures during the summer months in Brazil range from 25°C to 37°C. But it is important to keep in mind that Brazil is a huge country, and the weather conditions can vary significantly from one place to another.

For instance, temperatures in the north of Brazil, including the Amazon region, can exceed 40°C, with regular rainfall and high humidity. In contrast, southern Brazil, including towns such as Florianopolis and Porto Alegre, has warmer and comparatively drier summer conditions, with the mercury hovering between 20°C and 30°C.

  December January February March
Avg high 29°C (84°F) 30°C (86°F) 30°C (86°F) 29°C (84°F)
Avg low 19°C (72°F) 20°C (73°F) 20°C (75°F) 23°C (73°F)
Rainfall (mm) 52 39 37 103

For a more seasonal overview, check out our guide on the best time to visit Brazil.

Other related articles:
Brazil in December
Brazil in January
Brazil in February
Brazil in March

Why visit Brazil in summer

Morro dos Dois Irmaos in Fernando de Noronha, a paradisiac tropical island
Soak up the sun and unwind on Brazil's tranquil beaches during summer.

There are several reasons why you should jump on the next plane for a trip to Brazil in the summer. Here are some of them:

  • Outdoor activities: Summer months are ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, and surfing in Rio de Janeiro. The country has some of the world's most spectacular natural scenery, and the summer weather makes it simple to enjoy them.
  • Beaches: Brazil is home to some of the most stunning beaches in the world, and summer is the best season to explore the thousands of miles of coastline on offer. From the bustling Copacabana in Rio de Janeiro to the tranquil beaches of Florianopolis and the stunning coastline of Bahia, Brazil offers a beach experience to suit every taste.
  • Festivals and events: Brazil comes alive in summer with vibrant festivals and unmatched cultural experiences. Top of the list of these illustrious festivals is the Carnival of Brazil, a celebration of music, dance, and culture that takes place in February. Other noteworthy festivals include the Reveillon and Lavagem do Bonfim.
  • Wildlife viewing: Brazil has some of the most magnificent wildlife on the planet, and the summer months are ideal for viewing it. From the Amazon rainforest to the Pantanal marshes, you can spot a diverse range of bird and animal species.

Top 3 Destinations in Brazil During Summer

Virtually every part of Brazil is a great destination during summer. But here is a list of destinations you can never go wrong with:

1. Rio de Janeiro

The sun drench city of Rio de Janeiro
Experience the chilled out culture in the city of Rio de Janeiro.

Rio de Janeiro, also known as the "Cidade Maravilhosa" (Marvelous City), is one of Brazil's most popular tourist destinations. Rio is teeming with life and activities during the warmer summer months, with a full calendar of events, including the Carnival of Brazil held in February. On a Rio de Janeiro tour, you should also explore its beautiful beaches, nightlife, and renowned sites such as the Christ the Redeemer statue and Sugarloaf Mountain.

Major attractions: Copacabana and Ipanema beaches, Christ the Redeemer statue, Sugarloaf Mountain, and Rio Carnival.

Pros:

  • Rio is brimming with a vibrant atmosphere and plenty of events and festivals during the summer months.
  • The city’s nightlife gets more lively in summer.
  • Summer weather conditions in Rio are perfect for beach activities.

Cons:

  • As summer is the high season in Brazil, the beaches and major attraction sites might be crowded.

2. Florianópolis

Canal of Barra da Lagoa with blue water, boats and houses.
Escape the heat and experience the beauty of Lagao da Conceicao Lagoon during your summer trip.

Located on Brazil's southern coast, Florianópolis is a renowned beach vacation spot. The city's gorgeous beaches, such as Praia da Joaquina and Praia Mole, draw a huge number of visitors during the summer season. If you love surfing, swimming, and beach parties, a trip to Florianópolis is the destination you should not miss. You can also stroll around the city's historic district, which features attractive colonial buildings and a thriving arts culture.

Major attractions: Costa da Lagoa, Praia da Joaquina beach, Lagoa da Conceição lagoon, and Barra da Lagoa.

Pros:

  • The city is famed for its beautiful beaches with warm inviting waters for swimming and water sports.
  • Florianópolis has plenty of bars and clubs, where you can enjoy a fun night or two.

Cons:

  • Transportation options could be limited during the summer months due to the high number of visitors.

3. Bahia

Barra Beach in Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
Porto de Barra Beach of Salvador is a beautiful coast known for surfing and bars near Porto de Barra.

Bahia’s rich cultural heritage, vibrant music, and dance scene, and of course, stunning beaches make it one of the top summer destinations in Brazil. A trip to Bahia during summer means you will have a great time enjoying the outdoor activities on offer. From hiking at the Chapada Diamantina National Park to lazing on the beach of Porto Seguro to enjoying mouth-watering delicacies in local restaurants, you can rest assured that you will not run out of things to do on a summer tour of Bahia.

Major attractions: Salvador, Chapada Diamantina National Park, Proto Serugo, Itacare, Trancoso, and Candomble temples.

Pros:

  • Summer is the season for several festivals and cultural events in Bahia.
  • You will enjoy the state’s vibrant nightlife scene, as bars, restaurants, and clubs take things up a notch during summer.

Cons:

  • Bahia has more rainy days than most of the other parts of Brazil.

Top Activities during Summer in Brazil

Golden lion tamarin (Leontopithecus rosalia)
The Brazilian Amazon Rainforest is home to diverse wildlife consisting of rare and endangered species.
Hiker enjoying sunset on a dense Amazon Rain Forest in Brazil.
Embark on an unforgettable hiking journey through the Amazon Rainforest during summer in Brazil,
  • Go beach hopping: Brazil has some of the most gorgeous beaches in the world, and summer is the ideal season to visit them. Copacabana and Ipanema in Rio de Janeiro, Praia do Forte in Bahia, and Praia do Rosa in Santa Catarina are among the most popular beaches.
  • Wildlife watching: Brazil is home to various animals, including jaguars, monkeys, and rare birds. Go on a guided tour of the Amazon rainforest, a Pantanal wetlands safari, or visit one of Brazil’s many national parks to witness wildlife in its native habitat.
  • Enjoy hiking: Brazil offers several hiking and trekking options, with scenery ranging from mountains to jungles. The Pedra do Telegrafo trek in Rio de Janeiro, the Serra da Bocina National Park in So Paulo, and the Chapada Diamantina in Bahia are popular hiking destinations that you should check out if you are traveling in Brazil during the summer months.
  • Explore national parks: Brazil has a broad assortment of national parks and protected regions, each with its own unique terrain and wildlife. Many Brazilian national parks extend their opening hours and offer additional activities and events to tourists during summer. You can stroll through the lush forests of Rio de Janeiro's Tijuca National Park, see the majestic Iguaçu Falls in Foz do Iguaçu, and snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of the Bonito region.

Travel Tips to Visit Brazil in Summer

  • Pack lightweight, breathable clothes and plenty of sunscreens, as Brazil can get quite hot during the summer months.
  • Summer is the high season in Brazil, so book your accommodations and tours at least six months in advance.
  • It is always advisable to use a guide when going wildlife watching or hiking in remote areas like the Amazon rainforest and Pantanal.
  • Keep your valuables secure at all times and ensure you’re aware of your surroundings.

Brazil's summer season is an invitation to experience an unparalleled adventure. From exploring the country's national parks to relaxing on its famous beaches, visitors can experience a unique and unforgettable adventure. However, it is important to plan ahead as summer in Brazil is the high season.

With so much to do and see, it can be overwhelming to plan a trip that caters to your specific interests and preferences. Reach out to our travel experts for a customized trip to Brazil that best suits your needs and desires. All you have to do is tell them your requirements.

Published by Astha Joshi, updated on May 3, 2023

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