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Brazil FAQ’s


Do I need a visa?

Yes. Travelers with a US or Canadian passport DO REQUIRE a visa to visit any part of Brazil. Visit www.projectvisa.com for entry requirements if your passport is from another country.The government of Brazil has announced starting on June 17, 2019 the entry visa will be waived for citizens from the United States, Canada, Japan and Australia.

Is my passport valid?

Your passport must be valid at least 6 months following the end of your trip for entry into Brazil. If it expires sooner, you must get a renewal.

Do I need any shots?

Vaccinations for Measles and Yellow Fever are recommended for entry to Brazil. Yellow Fever vaccination is recommended if your itinerary will include the Amazon or Pantanal regions. Call the CDC Travelers’ Hot Line at 888-232-3228 or visit the website (http://www.cdc.gov/travel/). Most travelers take Hepatitis A, Typhoid Fever & Tetanus. If traveling to the Amazon or Pantanal regions consider Malaria prophylaxis in addition to Yellow fever.

When can I expect more details on my trip?

You will receive two sets of information by email: 1. Pre-departure materials once your trip is guaranteed, typically 2-4 months prior to your departure; and 2. Final Documents sent 8-14 days before you leave.

When is my balance due?

Your land balance is due 90 days prior to departure for Signature Trips and generally due at 120 days for Custom Trips. An invoice indicating your balance due will be sent with your pre-departure information.

Will I be met at the airport?

Yes, if you arrive according to schedule or have arranged extra transfers through our office. Meeting instructions and local contact information will be provided with your Final Documents.

Who books the local flights within Brazil?

You can book the flights in conjunction with your international itinerary. Southwind will provide you with an air schedule to best match your trip. We can also recommend a Latin American ticketing specialist to assist you with all your airline ticketing needs. Most local airlines use 727/737 jets.

How much money should I bring?

Depending on the length of your trip, plan to bring $300-600 per person for spending money, tips, taxi rides, additional visits and those meals not included in the itinerary.

Should I bring cash or traveler’s checks?

Cash is the easiest to exchange and most places accept US dollars. Credit or debit cards are also easy to use at most establishments. Be sure to check with your bank prior to your departure to inform them that you will be using your card in a foreign country. Traveler’s checks are less efficient and may take extra time and documentation to use. Find current exchange rates.

Are ATM machines available?

Yes. There are ATM machines in the main cities such as Rio, Salvador and Manaus. We recommend using the ones located inside some hotels, stores, restaurants or banks. Be cautious as some thieves may watch these machines and target tourists and others who take out large amounts of cash. Consult with your guide for safety recommendations on ATM’s or exchanging money.

Is Brazil safe?

We consider Brazil a safe destination. After more than 20 years of operating trips to Brazil, our travelers have never experienced a problem with safety, whether in the cities or on rural tourist areas. You can review an updated Country information page from the US State Department’s website.

What about thievery?

Petty thievery in Brazil’s cities is not much higher than in any large city in the US. Common sense is important. Use the safety deposit box at your hotel for your passport and extra money (carry only as much as you might spend each day) and leave jewelry and expensive watches at home.

What will the weather be like?

Brazil is a tropical nation with warm temperatures moderated by altitude, sea winds, or polar fronts. Coastal cities such as Rio de Janeiro, Recife & Salvador are warm with daytime highs between 85-95°F. The southern Brazilian cities of Porto Alegre & Curitiba have a climate similar to parts of the US with temperatures falling below freezing frequently during the winter months (June -September). In the Amazon temperatures above 95ºF occur during the warmest months of October & November (average temperature is 72-79ºF), and the hottest part of Brazil is the northeast. See more about Brazil weather for temperatures & forecasts.

How do I train for my trip?

If you lead an active lifestyle (walking, cycling, swimming, tennis, etc. on a regular basis) you will do fine on a Grade I or II trip. View more details on Trip Ratings.

What about an emergency while traveling?

Southwind has never had a life-threatening emergency for a traveler in more than 20 years of operations. Our guides are trained in first-aid. Depending on the circumstances, a vehicle, horse or helicopter may take an injured or ill person to the nearest medical facility. English-speaking doctors and clinics are available in all major cities (Rio, Manaus, Salvador, etc).

Who will be my guide?

We work with the most respected and experienced local guides, many of whom have advanced degrees in tourism, biology, native culture or other specialties. All speak excellent English and are knowledgeable, patient and fun to be around. On itineraries that visit several regions, you will be with a different local guide in each locale. Your Final Documents will provide guide details. See a list of some Southwind guides in Brazil