Brazil is the largest country in South America, covering almost half of the continent’s area. It borders the remaining South American countries, with the exception of Chile and Ecuador.
The country is one of the most multicultural and ethnically diverse in the world, and it comprises different protected ecosystems and habitats.
Geography
Capital : Brasília
Area: 8,515,767 km²
Population: 208,733,102 (Estimate 2018)
Language
The official language is Portuguese.
Time Zone
UTC -5 to UTC -2
Currency
The official currency is the Real ($R, BRL). Most hotels, restaurants and shops accept debit and credit cards. Automated Teller Machines (ATM) can be found in the main cities.
Electrical Current | Sockets
Electrical Voltage: 220 V | Frequency: 60 Hz
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Visa and Entry Requirements
A passport is required to enter Brazil, but some countries (e.g. Schengen Area) do not need a visa – a 90-day stay in the country will be granted on presentation of a valid passport. Nationals of Australia, Japan Canada and USA can get the eVisa. It costs USD 40, plus a service fee of USD 4.24.
Vaccines | Health
There are no required vaccinations, but vaccination against yellow fever is recommended for travellers going to areas where there is an increase in reported cases. Take the usual precautions against mosquitoes by using insect repellent. Make sure you have travel health insurance that covers medical treatment abroad and repatriation.
Safety
Most tourists who visit Brazil have no problems. However, levels of crime, including violent crime, are high in Brazilian shanty towns (favelas). Take extra care during during the festive and carnival periods. Frauds with bank cards are common.
Climate
Brazil can be visited throughout the year, as temperatures are generally pleasant. However, there are regional and seasonal temperature and rainfall variations.
