Brazil is one of the world’s most diverse and exciting travel destinations. One of the most common questions from travelers is: how much does it cost to visit Brazil? This comprehensive budget guide covers everything from visa fees and flights to accommodation, food, transport, and activities in 2026.
Brazil eVisa Cost
The first cost to budget for is your entry authorization. US, Canadian, and Australian citizens need a Brazil eVisa costing $80.90 USD per person. This is a one-time cost for a 10-year (US) or 5-year (CA/AU) multiple-entry authorization. EU and UK citizens enter visa-free at no cost.
Apply at brazil.vfsevisa.com. See our Brazil eVisa Fee page for the full cost breakdown.
Flights to Brazil
International flights are typically the largest expense for Brazil trips:
| Route | Approximate Cost (Economy Round-Trip) |
|---|---|
| New York / Miami to Rio or Sao Paulo | $600 – $1,200 USD |
| Los Angeles to Sao Paulo | $800 – $1,400 USD |
| London to Rio or Sao Paulo | £500 – £900 |
| Toronto / Vancouver to Sao Paulo | $800 – $1,500 CAD |
| Sydney to Sao Paulo (via stopover) | $1,200 – $2,000 AUD |
Book 3-6 months in advance for the best prices. LATAM, Copa, American, Air France, and TAP Portugal are major carriers. Avoid travel during Brazilian Carnival (January-March) and school holiday peaks for lower fares.
Daily Budget by Traveler Type
| Traveler Type | Daily Budget (USD) | What’s Included |
|---|---|---|
| Budget backpacker | $30 – $50 | Hostel dorm, local food, public transport |
| Mid-range traveler | $80 – $150 | Private hotel room, restaurant meals, Uber |
| Comfort traveler | $200 – $400 | Boutique hotel, fine dining, activities |
| Luxury traveler | $400+ | 5-star hotels, private tours, domestic flights |
Accommodation Costs
- Hostel dorm bed: $10 – $25 USD per night
- Budget private room: $30 – $60 USD per night
- Mid-range hotel: $70 – $150 USD per night
- Boutique/luxury hotel: $200 – $500+ USD per night
- Airbnb apartment (Rio/Sao Paulo): $50 – $150 USD per night
Prices are significantly higher during Carnival and New Year’s Eve.
Food Costs
- Street food meal (pastel, acai, tapioca): $2 – $5 USD
- Lunch at a per-kilo restaurant (peso no quilo): $5 – $10 USD
- Mid-range restaurant dinner: $15 – $35 USD per person
- Fine dining: $60 – $150+ USD per person
- Supermarket groceries: 30-50% of Western European/US prices
Transport Costs Within Brazil
- Uber/taxi (city): $3 – $15 USD per ride
- Metro/bus ticket: $0.50 – $1.50 USD
- Domestic flight (e.g., Rio to Manaus): $50 – $200 USD
- Long-distance bus: $10 – $50 USD (comfortable overnight buses)
Activity Costs
- Christ the Redeemer entrance (with transport): ~$20 USD
- Sugarloaf Mountain cable car: ~$30 USD
- Amazon jungle tour (2 days): $150 – $400 USD
- Iguazu Falls entrance (Brazilian side): ~$20 USD
- Fernando de Noronha daily preservation fee: ~$10-$50 USD/day (varies by nationality/season)
Total Trip Budget Examples
7-day budget trip (Rio + Iguazu):
- Flights: $800, eVisa: $81, Accommodation: $210, Food: $140, Transport: $100, Activities: $80
- Total: ~$1,400 USD
14-day mid-range trip (Rio + Amazon + Salvador):
- Flights: $1,000, eVisa: $81, Accommodation: $1,400, Food: $500, Domestic flights: $400, Activities: $300
- Total: ~$3,700 USD
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Brazil expensive to visit for Americans?
Brazil is generally affordable for American travelers. The Brazilian Real (BRL) is weaker than the USD, meaning your dollar stretches further. Mid-range travel is comparable to visiting Western Europe at 60-70% of the cost.
Is the Brazil eVisa included in travel costs?
Yes. For US, Canadian, and Australian citizens, budget $80.90 USD per person for the eVisa. This is a travel cost but a great value – valid for 10 years (US) or 5 years (CA/AU). Apply at brazil.vfsevisa.com.
Is tipping expected in Brazil?
A 10% service charge is usually included in restaurant bills in Brazil. You are not obligated to tip additionally, but rounding up or leaving 10-15% for exceptional service is appreciated. Tipping taxi drivers, hotel staff, and tour guides is discretionary but welcome.
