While people in the northern hemisphere are preparing for winter, the spring season is just peaking in Brazil. This is the best time to plan your summer holiday. Relax, unwind, but also have fun and plenty of things to do. What do Brazilians’ plans look like? And what factors do they consider?

Summer in Brazilian style

The Brazilian summer lasts from December to March and is typically humid and hot in most areas. When Brazilians consider where to go, they choose locations that offer more comfortable temperatures. Travel is especially popular during the Christmas holidays and during carnivals.

Summer holidays are always planned long in advance in Europe, but Brazilians give space to their spontaneity, freedom and carefree spirit. Some leave the planning to the last minute, others plan at least a month in advance. However, according to surveys, in recent years more young people are opting for an earlier choice. This is mainly due to rising prices and selling out of flights or accommodation dates.

Destinations in Brazil and beyond

Brazilians who do not want to leave the country’s borders are choosing from familiar domestic locations. These include Rio de Janeiro, Sao Paulo, Fortaleza, Salvador, Recife or Florianópolis. They choose according to how they want to spend their time: beaches and swimming, surfing, sightseeing, carnival or food tasting. Ecotourism is increasingly coming to the fore. More and more often, they are heading out into nature, especially to waterfalls and jungles, where there are hundreds of hiking trails. Watching sunsets on beaches is also very popular.

With more affordable options, there is also a growing interest in travelling to other countries. Portugal, Chile, Argentina and the USA are particularly popular. However, many Brazilians choose to take their holidays in the winter and fly to Europe, where the summer season is in full swing.

The best events of the Brazilian summer are the carnivals, especially the one in Rio de Janeiro. ━━ The best events of the Brazilian summer are the carnivals, especially the one in Rio de Janeiro. ( Source: R.M. Nunes /  iStockphoto )

Carnival as the main goal

The biggest attraction is the carnivals, which are typically associated with the idea of a Brazilian summer. During February, about 70% of tourism is related to the carnival season. In addition to Rio de Janeiro’s most famous carnival, people head to other destinations such as Salvador, Olinda or Recife.

Travelling with family and friends

Summer holidays are a symbol of social gatherings for Brazilians. Families rent beach houses together, as do groups of friends or young people. The best time is from December to February, when children have holidays.

The cheerful atmosphere of summer

The atmosphere of a Brazilian summer is lively, noisy and full of colour. Tasty foods and drinks such as coconut water, cheese on a stick or corn are found at every turn, and the popular Caipirinha cocktail is enjoyed on the beaches. The streets are filled with happy music and samba dancing, a staple of Carnival.