May in Brazil opens the doorway to the mighty Amazon and wildlife in Pantanal. Warm weather brings excellent hiking opportunities and city exploration time. Go on a boat cruise on the Amazon River, watch squirrel monkeys hanging in the trees, and spot a jaguar or two on a safari tour. Visit the Shell Open Air theatre in Rio de Janeiro and watch a movie on the world’s biggest open-air cinema screen. Read on for travel tips for traveling to Brazil in May.
Weather
May marks the transition into the winter season in Brazil, a time of shifting climates and varying experiences across this vast and diverse nation. In the southern reaches of the country, the temperature begins its descent, signaling the arrival of cooler days. Specifically, in regions such as Santa Catarina and Rio Grande do Sul, one can anticipate temperatures that hover around a comfortable 75.70° F.
Further north, in the vibrant city of Rio de Janeiro, May brings a welcome respite from the intense humidity of the summer months. Visitors can expect pleasant weather, characterized by low humidity and comfortable daytime temperatures ranging from 78 to 80 °F. Evenings in Rio offer a refreshing coolness, with temperatures dipping to around 62 to 65° F, perfect for enjoying the city’s nightlife.
Venturing into the heart of the Amazon, in Manaus, the climate remains consistently warm. Be prepared for temperatures around 88°F, accompanied by considerable heat and humidity, a typical characteristic of the Amazon rainforest environment. Contrastingly, in the coastal city of Salvador, moderate humidity prevails, offering a more balanced climate. Here, daytime temperatures average around 82°F, while nighttime temperatures settle at a comfortable 72°F.
This diverse weather pattern makes May an ideal time to explore Brazil’s iconic landmarks. Consider visiting the awe-inspiring Christ the Redeemer and the majestic Sugarloaf Mountain, both situated in Rio de Janeiro. The agreeable weather also allows for enjoying leisurely hours on Brazil’s famous beaches.
Crowds & Costs
May falls within Brazil’s low season, generally considered the second shoulder month following April. This period offers significant advantages for travelers, including smaller crowds and more affordable prices for flights and hotels. Consequently, May is arguably the perfect month to experience Brazil, whether you’re interested in sightseeing tours, invigorating hikes, or visiting famous landmarks without the throngs of tourists that characterize the peak season.
The reduced demand in May also translates to savings on other travel-related expenses. Renting a car becomes more economical, booking guided city tours is less competitive, and you can enjoy peaceful explorations of the vast Amazon rainforest without the usual tourist bustle.
Where to Go
When planning a trip to Brazil in May, three destinations consistently stand out: the Amazon rainforest, the vibrant city of Rio de Janeiro, and the expansive Pantanal wetlands. The Amazon is particularly appealing during this time, as the wildlife becomes more active and visible.
May is an excellent time for birdwatching enthusiasts, offering opportunities to spot a wide variety of exotic species. A cruise along the Amazon River provides an immersive experience, allowing you to observe the abundant wildlife that calls this region home. Rio de Janeiro, with its warming weather, presents the perfect setting for sightseeing throughout the city and relaxing on the iconic beaches of Copacabana. The pleasant climate invites exploration of Sugarloaf Mountain, Christ the Redeemer, and other significant landmarks that define the city’s skyline.
The elevated water levels in the Amazon during May create unique opportunities for exploration. Embarking on a boat trip on the swollen rivers provides access to the heart of the rainforest. The weather is also conducive to hiking in the Amazon forest and its surrounding areas, where diverse wildlife sightings are common. Keep an eye out for sloths, tamarins, and playful squirrel monkeys amongst the trees. Avid birdwatchers will delight in spotting herons, colorful macaws, and the distinct great kiskadee. The Amazon is also home to river dolphins, giant otters, and the infamous piranhas, among other fascinating creatures.
The Pantanal region, with its unparalleled ecosystem, is another must-visit destination in May. As the world’s largest wetland area, the Pantanal is a haven for hundreds of exotic bird species, jaguars, reptiles, and various monkey species. The open savannahs of the wetlands make wildlife observation easier compared to the dense forests of the Amazon. During the dry season in May, animals tend to congregate around waterholes, increasing the chances of visitors spotting the elusive jaguar.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
What to Do
Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Rio de Janeiro through sightseeing and enjoy the unique experience of catching a movie at Shell Open Air. For half of May, the spectacular space at Marina de Glória is transformed into the world’s largest open-air cinema, creating a memorable cinematic experience.
Visit Corcovado, the mountain on which the majestic Christ the Redeemer statue stands. Make your way to the top for breathtaking views of the city. Similarly, ascend Sugarloaf Mountain for another unforgettable perspective of Rio de Janeiro. Embark on a river cruise through the Amazon to encounter unusual plants and diverse wildlife. Enjoy relaxation on the beaches of Rio, and explore the cultural richness of beautiful Salvador through sightseeing.
Venture into the Pantanal for a thrilling wildlife safari. With the rains having subsided, animals become more active and mobile, making it an ideal time for birdwatching and spotting elusive wildlife. The rivers, still full of water, provide access to remote rainforest locations, offering optimal opportunities for wildlife viewing.
Events in May
Labor Day, also known as May Day (May 1) is a globally recognized holiday, celebrated in over 80 countries as International Workers Day.
Traveling to Brazil in May? Check out these great itineraries.
A Brazilian Adventure, from Rio to the Amazon – 9 Days. This itinerary begins in Rio de Janeiro, where you can explore the Floresta da Tijuca, known as the largest urban forest in the world, ride a cable car to the iconic Sugarloaf Mountain, and unwind on the famous Copacabana beach. The adventure continues to the Amazon, where you can canoe through the flooded forest of the Igapós, observe exotic wildlife within the jungle’s depths, and even swim with the enchanting pink dolphins.
Brazil Adventure: Rio de Janeiro, Iguazú Falls, & Pantanal – 10 Days. This journey starts in the vibrant seaside city of Rio de Janeiro, offering opportunities for sightseeing, including visits to Christ the Redeemer, cable car rides, and relaxation on the city’s best beaches. The adventure continues with a scenic hike along the Pedra Bonita trail, followed by a tour of Iguazú Falls, exploring both the Brazilian and Argentinian sides. The itinerary concludes in the biodiverse tropical wetlands of Pantanal, offering a unique wildlife experience.
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