Traveler Type: Culture & adventure
Welcome to Brazil
Brazil’s PR team must be working overtime because somehow, everyone I know suddenly has Brazil on their bucket list—and honestly, they’re not wrong. With its blend of Afro-Brazilian culture, mind-blowing landscapes, and the world’s biggest party on Earth, Brazil is that girl.
The first time I went to Brazil, I was solo, wide-eyed, and only there for nine days. Six months later, I found myself back. This time, I was hired as a videographer for the Packs Light x Intrepid Travel Solo Not Solo grant, documenting the group as we danced our way through Carnaval in Rio. Let’s just say… once you go to Brazil you’ll never want to leave!
Brazil
Did you know a Black woman is responsible for Rio's carnival culture as we know it today?
Carnaval is rooted in rebellion, becoming a powerful voice for the marginalized, particularly enslaved Africans and their descendants. Today, as you watch the jaw-dropping parades of samba schools, you’re witnessing a joyous reclamation of identity. With elaborate costumes that could put peacocks to shame and infectious rhythms that make standing still impossible, Carnaval embodies Brazil’s irrepressible spirit. Yes, it’s world-famous now, but don’t be fooled – at its core, this is still Rio’s way of turning adversity into joy.
To learn more about the Black origins of Carnaval, check out my Black Latin History episode below 👇🏾
Black Traveler Friendly Safe For Solo Women Travelers Bucket list Destination
Salvador
City Spotlight
Salvador da Bahia
Salvador de Bahia, often called the Blackest city outside of Africa, boasts a population where over 80% identify as Black. Salvador is a cultural powerhouse, birthing both samba and bossa nova music. The city is a living museum of Afro-Brazilian history. Wander through the UNESCO-listed Pelourinho district, witness the spiritual depth of Salvador by learning about Candomblé, and savor the tasty flavors of Bahian cuisine like street food favorite acrajé.
With its welcoming locals and spirit of celebration, Salvador is an immersion into the heart of Brazil’s African heritage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a visa to visit Brazil as a U.S. citizen?
Starting April 2025, if you’re from the US, Canada, or Australia, you’ll need an e-visa to travel to Brazil. This start date has been pushed back 3 times since 2024, so check government websites for the most up-to-date information.
The visa costs $81 and is valid for ten years for U.S. citizens and five years for Canadians, allowing multiple entries within that time frame. Processing time should only take five business days, but the Brazilian government recommends applying two months in advance to be on the safe side. The entire application process can be done online.
What language is spoken in Brazil?
PORTUGUESE, not Spanish. Although Brazil is in South America, the official language is Portuguese. I don’t speak Portuguese and could navigate fine, but it was a bit difficult. Download Google Translate, and download Portuguese offline so it can still be used even if you lose service.
I highly recommend learning some basic phrases like “Obrigado/a” (thank you), “Bom dia” (good morning), and “fala inglês?” (do you speak English?).
When is the best time to visit to Brazil?
Rio is blessed with a tropical climate that stays pretty delightful year-round, but because the country is in the southern hemisphere, summer falls between December and March, while “winter” runs from June through September.
- December-March: Summer in Rio means hot temperatures (80-90°F), afternoon rain showers, packed beaches, and higher prices. But it also means Carnival in February/March, which is bucket-list worthy.
- April-June & August-October: These shoulder seasons offer pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds, and better prices. My personal favorite!
- July: Winter in Rio is mild (70s°F) but can be rainy and slightly cooler.
I’ve gone in September and in February and y’all all it was hot both times. There wasn’t a day under 70 degrees, but it did rain a bit in Rio.
Are Rio and Salvador safe for solo women travelers?
Yes, for advanced solo travelers. I wouldn’t recommend it for rookie solo travelers. Rio gets a bad rap for being super dangerous, and while there are some sketch parts it’s like any major city. Same for Salvador. I went solo for 9 days and felt completely safe but I do advise not to wear alot of gold jewelry and not be on your phone all in public. Practice caution.
Is Brazil safe for black travelers?
About 56% of the population in Rio is Black or mixed race, and about 80% in Salvador, so if you’re a Black traveler, it’s def a great place to visit and feel very comfortable.
Is Uber available?
Yes, it is widely available and cheap, coming from the U.S. dollar.
How expensive is traveling in Brazil?
Brazil can be moderately expensive, especially in tourist hotspots. Budget travelers can get by on $30-50 USD per day, mid-range on $50-100, and luxury travelers should expect to spend $200+ per day. Prices vary significantly by location and season.
When is Carnival, and how do I experience it?
Carnival typically occurs in February or early March (dates vary as it’s tied to Easter). The biggest celebrations are in Rio de Janeiro, Salvador, and Recife. Book accommodations well in advance as early as October/Novemebr, be prepared for crowds, and consider joining a blocos (street parties) for an authentic experience.
What type of plugs/outlets are used?
Brazil uses plug types C & N (the same as Europe) so you will need an outlet converter.
What does "Rio de Janeiro" actually mean?
“Rio de Janeiro” literally translates to “River of January” in Portuguese. The name comes from Portuguese explorers who thought Guanabara Bay was the mouth of a river when they arrived in January 1502. Spoiler alert: it wasn’t a river, just a really big bay.
What are Rio's most famous landmarks?
The heavy hitters are Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf Mountain, Copacabana Beach, and the Selarón Steps. But don’t sleep on less-famous spots like the Botanical Gardens, Pedra do Arpoador (the most gorgeous sunset), and the Museum of Tomorrow.