Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden - Brazil Conservation and Wildlife Expedition

Brazil is a vast and dynamic country stretching across the central-eastern region of South America, defined by its Atlantic coastline and an extraordinary diversity of landscapes. As the largest nation on the continent, Brazil encompasses a mosaic of ecosystems—from the flooded wetlands of the Pantanal and the dense Amazon rainforest to Atlantic Forest remnants, cerrado savannas, and thriving coastal cities. This environmental richness supports one of the greatest concentrations of plant and animal life on Earth. Brazil’s cultural identity is equally diverse, shaped by Indigenous heritage, African and European influences, and generations of immigrants who contributed to its vibrant traditions, music, and cuisine. Travelers experience this blend of nature and culture in many forms: the energetic rhythm of Rio de Janeiro, the creative pulse of São Paulo, the wildlife-filled wetlands of the Pantanal, and the iconic festivals that celebrate community and color. Warm, welcoming, and deeply proud of their country, Brazilians offer visitors an immersive and memorable connection to both place and people.

On April 10, 2025, the Government of Brazil (GOB) reinstated a visa requirement for all U.S. nationals visiting Brazil, with an option for an e-visa for qualified applicants. 

For questions about the e-visa and application procedures, visit the Brazilian government-authorized website, https://brazil.vfsevisa.com/homepage

Please begin your e-visa application process 30 days prior to your departure to Brazil.

Currency 

Local currency: Brazilian Real 
Symbol: R$ 
ISO code: BRL 
Subunit: Centavo 
Banknotes: R$2, R$5, R$10, R$20, R$50, R$100 
Coins: 5, 10, 25, 50 centavos, R$1 

Banking 

Card Transactions: Yes 
ATMs: Yes 
Mastercard: Yes 
Visa: Yes 
American Express: Yes 
Diner’s club: Yes 

Banking Hours: 
Weekdays: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM 
Weekends: Closed 
Public Holidays: Yes 
Foreign exchange services: Yes 

 Air: 

Main airlines: LATAM Airlines, Gol Linhas Aéreas 
International Airports: São Paulo-Guarulhos International Airport, Rio de Janeiro-Galeão International Airport 
Domestic Airports: Brasília International Airport, Congonhas-São Paulo Airport 

Road: 

Driving on the: Right 
Tar roads: Yes 
Gravel roads: Yes 
Valid International Driver's License needed: Yes 
Car hire available: Yes 
Taxis: Yes 
E-hailing services: Yes 

Bus: 

Inter-city bus services: Yes 
Local city bus networks: Yes 

Rail: 

Railway system: Yes 
Subway System: Yes 

Water: 

Ferries: Yes 
Water taxis: Yes 
Leisure cruises: Yes 

Food and water safety: 

Can you drink the tap water: No 
Fresh fruit and veg: Yes 
Ice: Yes 
Meat: Yes 
Street food: Yes 

Local cuisine: 

Brazilian cuisine is diverse and influenced by its multicultural heritage. Feijoada, a hearty bean stew with pork, is a staple. Churrasco, or Brazilian barbecue, is famous for its grilled meats. Other highlights include coxinha (chicken croquette) and acarajé (black-eyed pea fritters). Notable local drinks include caipirinha (cocktail with cachaca), guaraná (soft drink), and mate (tea). 

Tipping: 10-15% 

Annual rainfall: Varies by region 
Average temperature: 25°C 

Summer: 

Average highs: 30°C 
Average lows: 22°C 

Winter: 

Average highs: 25°C 
Average lows: 18°C 

Best time to visit: 

The best time to visit Brazil depends on the region. Coastal areas are best from December to March, while the Amazon is ideal from June to November. 

Spring and Summer 

Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Yes 
Lightweight warm clothes: No 

Winter and Autumn 

Jerseys, cardigans, sweaters, jackets: Recommended 
Heavyweight clothing and boots: No 

General 

Umbrella and raincoat: Yes 
Warm gloves, hat and scarf: No 
Swimming costume (bathing suit): Yes 
Hat, sunglasses and sunblock: Yes 
Walking shoes: Yes 
Casual: Yes 
Smart-casual attire: Yes 

Plug Type: N
Voltage (V): 127V or 220V (varies by region and building)
Frequency (Hz): 60

Plug type N has three round pins, arranged with two horizontal pins and one central grounding pin. This is Brazil’s standard plug type, though some older outlets may still accept Type C (two round pins).

If you are using single-voltage American appliances (110–120V AC), you will need both a plug adapter and a voltage converter, as many locations provide 220V power.

If you are using dual-voltage appliances, you only need a plug adapter.