7 wallet-friendly tips for your upcoming Brazil adventure

With its tropical climate, incredible biodiversity, and one of the friendliest, party-loving cultures in the world, Brazil can be an excellent destination for budget-conscious travelers when planned wisely.

You can save significantly on dining and lodging, but be aware that luxury items and certain remote locations can be quite expensive. For instance, round-trip flights from São Paulo to the breathtakingly distant Fernando de Noronha island might set you back between US$350 (R$1762) and US$800 (R$4028).

Fortunately, numerous affordable and beautiful spots can be found along the coast and inland, where accommodations are budget-friendly, offering various options to save your Brazilian reais throughout the country. Here’s how to maximize your budget in Brazil.

Daily expenses

• Hostel accommodation: R$130–300

• Standard room for two: R$300–600

• Apartment or Airbnb rental: R$100–400

• Six-hour guided tour: R$300–500

• Coffee: R$7

• Rodízio-style barbecue: R$90–200

• Dinner for two: R$180–350

• Beer: R$15

• Caipirinha cocktail: R$15–25

Average daily expense per person: R$415–950

1. Avoid traveling during peak winter and summer seasons

Naturally, hotel prices in Brazil soar during the summer months (from December to February) and spike even more during major events like Carnaval and New Year’s.

If you're keen on saving money, consider planning a winter trip (from June to August). This is especially beneficial in the northeastern regions, where beach weather remains favorable. Just keep in mind that Brazilian children usually have the entire month of July off for winter vacation, which may influence hotel rates.

2. Make the most of buffets and street food offerings

Finding a quick and affordable snack in Brazil is a breeze—most cafes offer delicious salgadinhos, savory treats that often include cheesy options like pão de queijo, coxinha, and pastéis. For something more filling yet just as easy, try a misto quente, a warm ham and cheese sandwich.

If your appetite is bigger, seek out a buffet-style eatery (just remember that you usually pay by weight, so be mindful of your portions). For a hearty meal, look for a rodízio steakhouse, where a single price allows you to enjoy a continuous selection of delicious meats along with a salad and sides bar.

3. Discover lesser-known destinations

While it’s possible to find budget-friendly lodging in Rio and São Paulo, you’ll discover even better rates by exploring other major cities like Florianópolis, Fortaleza, Belo Horizonte, and Salvador.

For those yearning for a secluded beach getaway without the shockingly high prices of Fernando de Noronha, the more accessible island of Ilhabela is a great alternative, or you can explore the beaches near Natal and Recife in the northeast.

4. Channel your inner cowboy

To maximize your savings while traveling in Brazil, consider straying from the usual tourist spots and heading into the rural heartland.

Venturing away from the coast, the Brazilian countryside offers a unique perspective on the nation. Here, you can find ranch-style resorts with horseback riding opportunities just a few hours from São Paulo, as well as vineyards in rising wine areas like the Vale dos Vinhedos.

Emulate the locals by gathering friends to rent a chacara, a ranch house featuring a pool, barbecue area, and plenty of hammocks perfect for post-churrasco relaxation.

5. Explore long-distance bus services for travel across the country

If you're up for a long journey, whether five or even over ten hours, Brazil's long-distance buses can take you far. They’re surprisingly comfortable, equipped with Wi-Fi and options for lie-flat seating. For instance, a six-hour bus ride from Rio de Janeiro to São Paulo will cost around R$100.

6. Opt for group tours to reach more adventurous locales

Due to infrastructure issues and language barriers, accessing Brazil's lesser-known regions can be challenging—beyond just the Amazon. Think about visiting the Pantanal, a rich wetland ecosystem, or Jalapão, an awe-inspiring savannah in Tocantins.

Be sure to research local agencies and tour operators with solid reviews. For instance, Cerrado Dourado, a tour company I traveled with in 2018, offers a five-night excursion in Jalapão for R$3299, which includes all transportation in a 4x4, accommodation, and three daily meals.

7. Find budget-friendly, authentic Brazilian souvenirs

If you're looking to buy a pair of name-brand sneakers or a new phone while in Brazil, brace yourself for some hefty prices—much higher than what you might find back home.

That said, you can still enjoy shopping. Great deals await on brands that are pricier elsewhere, such as Havaianas, known for its high-quality, vibrant flip-flops.

You can also stock up on bikinis, which are affordably priced and come in a wide range of styles. Hammocks are another great souvenir option where you can snag good bargains, especially from street vendors.