Frequently Asked Questions

Where will I go on a Brazil cruise?

This depends on your itinerary. Brazil cruises generally include coastal cities and ports on the Amazon River, along with other South American ports in Argentina, Chile, Ecuador, Peru or Uruguay.

When is the best time to take a Brazil cruise?

The cruise season stretches from fall to spring. Visitors can avoid surging tourist crowds by traveling during the "shoulder seasons" in October or April. Temperatures are milder during these months and there's less competition for the top tourist attractions. Since it’s located in the southern hemisphere, Brazil’s seasons are opposite of those in the northern hemisphere. When it’s winter in the U.S., it’s summer in Brazil.

Will I need a passport or visa?

Passports are required for all international visitors. Visas are also required for all US citizens.

Is English spoken?

English is not widespread but most resorts, shops and restaurants connected to the tourist trade will have some English-speaking staff.

What is the time difference?

Brazil is 1-2 hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time.

What is the local currency? Where can I exchange currency?

Brazil uses the Brazilian real. Currency exchange stations are available at most local hotels and airports, though many tourist destinations accept credit cards.

Is tipping a common practice?

Sometimes, service is included in restaurant bills. If not, a tip of 10% is customary on restaurant bills. Taxi drivers generally receive 10% and other service staff, such as maids and porters, generally receive $.50 to $3.

What should I wear?



What should I pack?

Many excursions in Brazil involve sightseeing with a minimal to moderate amount of walking, although some tours may include extensive walking or hiking. Think about the kinds of activities you will want to try and pack accordingly. Protective hats, good walking shoes and windbreakers are advisable no matter when you travel. Also, remember to pack all of your medications, prescription or otherwise, in a bag you can keep with you as needed.

Is the water safe to drink?


What sort of medical precautions do I need to take?

Shots are usually not necessary for visitors from North America, but it doesn’t hurt to check with your health care provider and discuss the shots required for the countries you'll be visiting.

What types of electrical outlets are used?


How do I make a telephone call from Brazil?


Are hotel rooms outfitted with air conditioners?

Air conditioning may only be available in nicer hotels in some cities. If recycled air is important to you, make sure to consult your travel counselor before booking a pre- or post-cruise hotel stay.

What is the shopping like? What souvenirs should I buy?

Brazil offers a wide variety of shopping opportunities, from daily markets to pedestrian-friendly city shopping areas. In Rio de Janeiro, try Barrashopping, a complex of more than 600 stores. Or, get a taste for Brazilian beach life and purchase souvenirs from vendors along the beach. In Sao Paulo, try the bargain market stalls of Rua 25 de Marco or the high end shops and boutiques of the Jardins area. Visit the Mercado Adolpho Lisboa marketplace in Manaus or stroll through the street stalls in Alter de Chao. Belém specializes in jungle items, but visitors should be careful not to purchase objects that have been plundered from the jungle, contributing to the general destruction.

How do I get around?

Most major cities in Brazil have extensive public transportation systems that include travel by metro, bus or tram. Bicycle rentals may also be available, and many tourist areas of town are pedestrian-friendly. Shore excursions purchased through your cruise line highlight top attractions and include transportation and a guide.

Can I rent a car?

Rental rules vary, but most companies require renters to be at least 21-25 years old. However, the proliferation of public transportation makes car rentals largely unnecessary in most cities.

What can I do there?

With so much to experience in Brazil, the potential activities seem limitless. See the iconic statue of Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro. In Ilha Grande, rappel down the steep cliffs that divide the island, or hike to the top of 3,400-foot Pico do Baepi. Enjoy the white sand beaches, natural swimming pools and lagoons of Maceio. Take a city tour in Recife that may include visits to the Pernambuco Culture Center, where handmade goods are sold out of the cells of a prison-turned-crafts-market, and Republic Square to see the Teatro Santa Isabel.

Do you have any photography tips for travelers to Brazil?

There's plenty of historic and natural beauty to capture, so be sure to bring plenty of gear. Users of "point-and-shoot" digital cameras should pack rechargeable batteries, a charger, electric adaptors and high-capacity memory. If you're bringing a digital video camera, don't forget the long-life batteries, charger, adaptors and converter. Make sure photography is permitted before shooting in museums, churches and cathedrals; in some cases, you'll just be asked to turn off your flash.

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