Travel advice for Brazil
From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Brazil
- Brazil
- Rio de Janeiro
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Read all reviews ⤍In May, Brazil is perfect for adventurers. The autumn brings cooler temperatures, ideal for outdoor exploration. The Amazon is alive, offering rich wildlife encounters. The Pantanal's dry season starts, great for safari adventures. Cities like Rio and São Paulo are pleasantly cool, perfect for city tours. Beaches are warm and less crowded, ideal for swimming and surfing.
May is a month that unveils the vibrant heart of Brazil in a unique and captivating way. As the country transitions from the warm summer to the milder winter, visitors have the opportunity to experience Brazil's rich culture, diverse ecosystems, and lively festivals in a more comfortable climate.
The blend of favorable weather in Brazil in May, fewer crowds, and a chance to immerse oneself in the local way of life make it an ideal time for travelers seeking an authentic Brazilian experience.
May in Brazil offers mild temperatures and low humidity, perfect for exploring Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo. Enjoy fewer tourists, serene beaches, and cost-effective travel. The Pantanal is ideal for wildlife spotting post-rainy season, offering great photography opportunities.
While May offers advantages in Brazil, there are drawbacks. The Amazon often sees heavy rains, impacting travel plans. Southern Brazil and some coastal regions have cooler temperatures, not ideal for beach vacations. Missing Brazil's famous summer festivals, like Carnival, is a significant downside. Additionally, fewer tourists mean a less vibrant nightlife in popular destinations, with many venues operating on limited schedules. This period may not capture the full energy and warmth Brazil is famous for.
Haven't picked the right time for your Brazil trip yet? Explore our detailed guide to the best time to visit Brazil and gain the insights that will help you decide.
The weather in Brazil in May is characterized by varying weather conditions across a vast area of the country. As Brazil continues its transition from the warm embrace of summer to the cooler winter months, each region experiences different weather patterns. The tropical north of the country may continue to experience humid weather, while the southern states begin to feel the chill.
May in Brazil showcases diverse climatic patterns across its regions. In the northern areas, temperatures remain warm and humid, characteristic of a tropical climate, typically ranging between 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F).
Central Brazil, transitioning into drier and milder conditions, offers a comfortable climate ideal for exploring, with average temperatures hovering around 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). In contrast, the southern part of the country begins to experience cooler temperatures as it approaches winter, often falling between 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F).
Rio de Janeiro in May enjoys a pleasant climate with moderate warmth. The average temperatures range from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), creating ideal conditions for enjoying the city's famous beaches and outdoor attractions without the intense heat of summer.
When planning a trip to Rio, check out our list of Rio's essential sights and experiences to help you get the most out of this vibrant city.
São Paulo in May experiences cooler and more temperate weather compared to Rio. Average temperatures hover around 15°C to 21°C (59°F to 70°F), making it perfect for exploring the city's cultural sites and outdoor activities without the discomfort of high heat or humidity.
Planning to visit Sao Paulo? Explore our guide to the best places to stay in São Paulo and find accommodation options that work for you.
May is still the rainy season in the Amazon rainforest. Temperatures typically range from 23 to 30°C (73-86°F), accompanied by high humidity and frequent rains that enhance the lushness of the rainforest.
Iguaçu Falls is cool in May, with temperatures ranging between 12°C and 20°C (54°F - 68°F). Such cool weather is ideal for visiting the falls, as the lower humidity and milder temperatures make exploring this natural wonder a comfortable experience.
In May, the Pantanal region begins to dry out after the rainy season and temperatures range from 20 to 30 °C (68 to 86 °F). This is a great time for wildlife watching, as receding waters bring animals to more visible and accessible areas.
For a better understanding of Pantanal's particular characteristics, read our guide to visiting Brazil's Pantanal.
May in Brazil means fewer crowds and lower costs. It's the shoulder season, so travel is quieter and more affordable. Cities like Rio and São Paulo have fewer tourists, making popular spots more intimate. Natural attractions like Iguaçu Falls and the Amazon are peaceful escapes.
Expect budget-friendly travel with cheaper flights and hotel rates. It's a great time for a relaxed, economical trip to Brazil, but check for local events that might affect crowds.
Looking for a budget travel destination? Check out our list of the 20 cheapest places to travel around the world.
In general, May in Brazil is not usually hot. In the northern regions closer to the equator, the climate remains warm and humid, but it is not as intensely hot as in the summer months.
In central areas, including major cities such as Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, temperatures are milder and more pleasant, while the southern regions of Brazil can be quite cool as the country begins to transition into winter. Thus, although some regions can be hot, May is not characterized by the intense heat that characterizes the Brazilian summer.
The weather in Brazil in May allows you to explore many exciting destinations:
Find even more options for your trip in our list of the best holiday destinations in May.
There are many exciting things to do in Brazil, but we suggest you check out the most interesting ones to do in May.
In May, Brazil hosts many events and festivals that reflect the country's rich cultural life. These events offer a glimpse into the country's traditions, arts and community spirit.
Thinking of visiting Brazil? You'll find inspiration in our customisable Brazil itineraries, or contact our local experts to kick-start your perfect trip.
From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Brazil
written by
Olga Sitnitsa
updated 31.01.2024
Online editor at Rough Guides, specialising in travel content. Passionate about creating compelling stories and inspiring others to explore the world.