Quick Guide
Carnival season is the typical trip to Rio, starting the week before Ash Wednesday and culminating in a bash at the Sambadrome on Fat Tuesday.
December through March is the rainy season, and these months also see the hottest temperatures. If you’re looking for more temperate travel, come during the transitional months of April and November.
Visas
To visit Rio de Janeiro, U.S. travelers need a passport valid for at least six months from the date of entry, a return ticket and enough funds for your stay.
Money
The currency of Rio is the real. Credit cards are generally accepted and ATMs are widespread.
Travel Health
Before traveling, research and prepare for what to do if you get sick while away.
Getting Here
Rio de Janeiro Galeao Airport (GIG) is the primary airport. Book well in advance for Carnival season. Taxis are available at a flat rate to get into the city — a 20-minute ride.
Getting Around
Uber and Taxis are the easiest ways to get around Rio, and if you book rooms close to Carnival celebrations, it’s best to reach them on foot. Check for surge pricing on Uber on parade days.
Local Lingo
Portuguese is the official language of Brazil. A basic knowledge of Spanish can also help you get by. The most common greeting is “Tudo bem,” which translates to “Everything okay?” It’s the Brazilian version of “What’s up?” A common answer is “Tudo” (Everything).
Must-Have Apps
Insider Tip
Rio is home to the biggest urban forest in the world, planted by Emperor Dom Pedro II to reforest coffee plantations. Get your fill of fresh air in the Botanical Gardens of Tijuca Forest.
Carnival season is the typical trip to Rio, starting the week before Ash Wednesday and culminating in a bash at the Sambadrome on Fat Tuesday.
December through March is the rainy season, and these months also see the hottest temperatures. If you’re looking for more temperate travel, come during the transitional months of April and November.
Visas
To visit Rio de Janeiro, U.S. travelers need a passport valid for at least six months from the date of entry, a return ticket and enough funds for your stay.
Money
The currency of Rio is the real. Credit cards are generally accepted and ATMs are widespread.
Travel Health
Before traveling, research and prepare for what to do if you get sick while away.
Getting Here
Rio de Janeiro Galeao Airport (GIG) is the primary airport. Book well in advance for Carnival season. Taxis are available at a flat rate to get into the city — a 20-minute ride.
Getting Around
Uber and Taxis are the easiest ways to get around Rio, and if you book rooms close to Carnival celebrations, it’s best to reach them on foot. Check for surge pricing on Uber on parade days.
Local Lingo
Portuguese is the official language of Brazil. A basic knowledge of Spanish can also help you get by. The most common greeting is “Tudo bem,” which translates to “Everything okay?” It’s the Brazilian version of “What’s up?” A common answer is “Tudo” (Everything).
Must-Have Apps
Insider Tip
Rio is home to the biggest urban forest in the world, planted by Emperor Dom Pedro II to reforest coffee plantations. Get your fill of fresh air in the Botanical Gardens of Tijuca Forest.
Did you know?
The iconic and oft-Instagrammed Christ the Redeemer Statue overlooking Rio is the largest art deco statue in the world, weighing in at 1.4 million pounds.
