Rio de Janeiro experiences a tropical maritime climate, with two distinct seasons: the rainy season from December to April (summer), and a dry season from May to November (winter).
The great thing about Rio is that it rarely gets cold, though it can get a bit too hot in summer. With that in mind, Rio is a year-round city and beach destination. Here’s what you can expect from the weather in Rio.
Seasonal Temperatures
During the rainy season (December to April), humidity is usually above 80 percent and daily highs are around 29ºC (84ºF). However, heat waves might rise temperatures above 35ºC (95ºF), reaching 40ºC (104ºF) in certain areas of the city.
The dry season (May to November) is when temperatures are lower, with highs averaging 25ºC (77ºF).
January, February and March are the hottest months, with a daily mean temperature of 26ºC (79ºF). In June, July and August, it will drop to around 21ºC (70ºF).
Rainfall
Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, but there is a dry season. On average, January is the wettest month, while July is the driest one.
Temperature and rainfall chart – Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
When to Go
May through November are the best months to visit Rio de Janeiro, with pleasantly warm temperatures and less rain. These are generally quieter times of year to visit the city. You can often find cheaper deals on accommodation.
Of course, if you want to hit the beaches, then the best time to visit Rio de Janeiro is the high season (December to March). However, do note that during New Year’s and Carnival festivities finding an affordable place to stay isn’t easy – you may need to book your hotel and flight months in advance.
