Yellow Fever in Brazil
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Brazil?
What is the Climate Like in Brazil?
How Safe is Brazil?
Beaches in Brazil
What Should I Take To Brazil?
Canadian Embassy in Brazil
Rich with beaches, rainforests, and vibrant urban centers, Brazil offers a wide variety of attractions.
For the adventurous, there are mountains to climb and islands to explore. For the more historically inclined, there are whole settlements from the colonial era that have not been renovated since their construction.
To experience the rich culture of Brazil, it is best to come during the time of Carnaval. Dancers flood the streets showing off sambo rhythms and other aspects of Brazil’s musical fabric. This is not to say Carnaval is the only time to behold such an event. Smaller versions of the festival happen throughout the year, and serve as a perfect window into the country’s heart.
Due to Brazil’s history as a trading port and colony, it is a melting pot of African, European, and Latin American cultures.
Brazil is also home to one of the most diverse ecosystems on the planet, offering an incredible range of flora and fauna. A trip to Brazil is a chance to experience a taste of everything.
Do I Need Vaccines for Brazil?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Brazil. The PHAC and WHO recommend the following vaccines for Brazil: typhoid, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, yellow fever, rabies, and influenza.
| Vaccine | How Disease Spreads |
|---|---|
| Typhoid | Contaminated Food or Water |
| Hepatitis A | Contaminated Food or Water |
| Hepatitis B | Contaminated Body Fluids (Sex, needles, etc.) |
| Yellow Fever | Mosquito-borne |
| Rabies | Infected Animals |
| Influenza | Airborne Droplets |
A yellow fever vaccination is not required to enter Brazil, but is highly recommended. See the yellow fever section below.
Malaria and dengue are present in Brazil. Be sure to take proper precautions to avoid these mosquito-borne diseases. Bring repellents netting and antimalarials, if needed.
Zika virus has been found in Brazil. Some travellers are at an increased risk including women who are pregnant or may become pregnant. Make sure you use repellents and netting where needed.
Visit our vaccinations page to learn more. Travel safely with Passport Health and schedule your appointment today by calling or book online now.
Yellow Fever in Brazil
Brazil has been the site of multiple yellow fever outbreaks in the past few years. The most recent outbreak started in December 2016 and is still ongoing.
Yellow fever vaccination is highly recommended for travellers to:
- Espirito Santo
- Rio de Janeiro
- São Paulo
- Bahia
See our health alerts section for the most up-to-date information.
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Brazil?
In order to enter Brazil, Canadian citizens who have a valid passport need a visa to enter Brazil. Brazilian procedure changes mean that processing a visa is different depending on where in Canada you live. Eastern Canada residents may receive their visa as soon as four + weeks. Western Canada residents will receive their visas in less than three weeks. Those in the Ontario/ Mantiboa area should expect to receive their visa in 3+ weeks.
Brazil Entry Requirements | ||
| Is A… | A Brazil Entry Requirement? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport | Yes | |
| Passport Validity | Valid at entry | |
| Blank Passport Pages | One page required for entry stamp | |
| Tourist Visa | Yes | |
| Vaccinations | Recommended | |
Tourist visas last 90 days, but can be extended once for an an extra 90 days. When entering the country, you must provide proof of a return ticket, or you may not be allowed entry.
Visit the Canadian Travel and Tourism website for more information on entry and exit requirements.
What is the Climate Like in Brazil?
Brazil’s climate can vary depending on which region you are visiting.
In the northern parts of the country, the climate is tropical, while in the southern regions the climate is more temperate. Most of the population lives in cooler areas like high altitudes or the coast.
Popular tourist destinations like Rio de Janeiro suffer from an extremely hot climate. Temperatures there are usually above 38 degrees during the dry season.
In the areas closer to the Amazon rainforest, temperatures higher than 32 are rare. If you are traveling to cities in the upper region of the Amazon belt like Belem, heavy rainfall is common between December and April.
It is best to study the microclimate of the region you are visiting while planning a trip to Brazil.
How Safe is Brazil?
Be sure to travel with your passports on your person at all times and be prepared to present it to local law enforcement, if necessary.
As a whole, the danger level of Brazil is classified as high. The murder rate if four times that of developed nations, and the crime rate reaches similar numbers. Travellers should remain vigilant at all times. Try not to travel outside of where you are staying after dark.
Do not ever enter the favelas. They are mostly operated by gangs, and are extremely dangerous even for locals. It is best to avoid them completely. If you are planning on going somewhere that is off the beaten path, consult with locals first to find out if it is safe.
Avoid carrying large amounts of money with you. If absolutely necessary, divide it up between several pockets. The efficiency of the police force varies depending on the region. It is imperative that you do not attempt to bribe them for any reason.
Beaches in Brazil
Brazil is widely renowned for its gorgeous beaches.
The most famous beaches are Ipanema and Copacabana in Rio de Janeiro. There are gems further north such as the Boa Vista and Porto de Galinhas that are worth checking out.
If you are planning on visiting one of the more well-known beaches, be prepared to be mingling with large crowds. These beaches bring in tens of thousands of tourists, especially from Europe, throughout the year.
What Should I Take To Brazil?
Here are some essential items to consider for your trip to Brazil:
- Medical Supplies – These can be expensive in Brazil. It is important to bring one’s own. Make sure to include antidiarrheal medication, antimalarials, and basic over the counter aides.
- Breathable Clothing – The climate of Brazil in the central areas like Rio de Janeiro can be quite hot. Wear clothing that is not too thick, and that you wouldn’t mind sweating in.
- Warm Clothing – This is advised if traveling to an area south of the Tropic of Capricorn where the climate is more temperate.
- Documents – Be sure to bring your passport, visa and other forms of identification.
- Cash – It is safest to operate on a cash-only basis while in Brazil.
Canadian Embassy in Brazil
Canadian consular services can help travellers with many issues they may face including passport services. Once in Brazil, the information for the Canadian Embassy is:
Canadian Embassy in Brazil
SES – Av. das Nações, Quadra 803, Lote 16
70410-900 Brasília DF – Brazil
Tel.: (55 61) 3424-5400
If you have any questions about travelling to Brazil or are wondering what shots you may need for your trip, schedule an appointment with your local Passport Health travel medicine clinic. Call us at or book online now!
