Brazil on a budget

Cheapest months to go

Peak is April, May, June, September, October, November. The weeks either side of that window usually carry most of the weather with much less of the price.

Getting around for less

Realistic options in Brazil:

• Domestic flights are the practical way to cross regions — distances between the Northeast, Amazon and south are enormous
• Long-distance coaches are extensive and comfortable for regional hops
• A rental car helps along Northeast coastal stretches and in the south
• Boats are ordinary transport in the Amazon basin
• Cities use metros (São Paulo, Rio), buses and ride-hailing apps

Where to base yourself

Fewer bases means fewer paid transfers. Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, Salvador cover a lot between them.