Porto Velho Travel Tips. Money, Safety, Culture

Connectivity Basics

Brazil's major mobile providers are Vivo, Claro, and TIM. Purchase prepaid SIM cards (chip pré-pago) with your passport at official stores or kiosks. Data packages are inexpensive.

Services

Airalo for eSIM options.
Solis Wi-Fi for portable internet.
Mobile data coverage generally good in urban areas.

Internet Access

Wi-Fi is common in hotels, many restaurants, cafes, and shopping malls. For reliable internet, consider a local SIM card.

Postal Info

Correios (Brazilian Post Office) branches available.
Employ for sending postcards or packages.
Find locations easily in the city.

Language Guidance

Portuguese is the official language. English is not widely spoken, especially in Porto Velho. Translation apps help, Google Translate's offline Portuguese pack is recommended.

Learning Resources

Practice with Rosetta Stone.
Offline translation apps on your phone.
Carry a small phrasebook for quick reference.

Essential Phrases

Phrases

Olá (oh-LAH) - Hello
Obrigado/Obrigada (oh-bree-GAH-doo / oh-bree-GAH-dah) - Thank you
Por favor (por fah-VOR) - Please

More Useful Phrases

Everyday Use

Com licença (kohn lee-SEN-sah) - Excuse me (to pass by)
Desculpe (dees-KOOL-pee) - Sorry
Sim (seen) - Yes
Não (nah-O) - No

Situational Aids

Eu não falo português (ay-oo nah-O FAH-loo por-too-GAYSS) - I don't speak Portuguese
Ajuda! (ah-ZHOO-dah!) - Help!
Quanto custa? (KWAN-too KOOS-tah?) - How much does it cost?
Bom dia/Boa tarde/Boa noite - Good morning/afternoon/night

Local Communication Tip

Local SIM cards or portable Wi-Fi devices offer reliable connectivity for your journey.

Practical Daily Information

Plan your activities around typical operating times and local hints in Porto Velho.

Retail Hours

Shops generally 09:00-18:00 (Mon-Fri), 09:00-13:00 (Sat). Malls often until 22:00.

Banking & ATMs

Banks typically 10:00-16:00 (Mon-Fri). ATMs are widely available at banks, supermarkets, and malls, often 24/7.

Dining Times

Midday MEAL 12:00-15:00, dinner 19:00-23:00 or later. Supermarkets often open from 08:00-22:00.

Holidays & Closures

Brazil observes many national and regional holidays. During these days, businesses, banks, and government offices close or reduce hours. Plan ahead.

Seasonal Notes

General businesses in Porto Velho rarely have seasonal closures.
Some visitor attractions might adjust hours during low season.
Always check specific attraction websites or call ahead.

Greeting Customs

Brazilians are generally warm. Handshakes are common. Close friends may hug or kiss on the cheek (two kisses are frequently found in Rondônia). Use "Senhor" or "Senhora" for respect.

Attire Tips

Casual and comfortable clothing is fine due to the climate.
Dress modestly when visiting churches or traditional establishments.
Remove hats indoors in formal settings.

Cultural Etiquette

Dining Habits

Use a fork and knife for most meals.
Avoid eating with your hands unless it is street food.
Keep your hands visible on the table.

Photography & Taboos

Photography is generally permissible in public areas.
Be discreet and respectful when photographing religious ceremonies.
Avoid heated discussions about politics or negative comparisons of Brazil.

Local Insight

Embrace local customs for a richer travel journey. A simple 'Obrigado' (thank you) makes a difference.

Accessibility Considerations

Infrastructure in Porto Velho has challenges for travelers with mobility needs.

Mobility Infrastructure

Accessibility infrastructure is limited. Sidewalks can be uneven, and proper ramps or lifts are not universally available in public spaces or older buildings.

Accessible Options

Newer buildings, shopping malls, and some up-to-date accommodations offer better features.
Private taxis or ride-sharing services offer feasible plus versatile transport.
Public transportation has limited accessibility.

Sensory Impairments

Limited specialized services cater to travelers with visual or hearing impairments.

Advice

Traveling with a companion is advisable.
Pre-arrange assistance with tour operators or hotels.
Direct communication with service providers is useful.

Gender & LGBTQ+ Travelers

Brazil is generally considered an open country. However, Porto Velho is a less liberal city compared to major metropolises like Rio or São Paulo.

Local Considerations

While discrimination is illegal, discretion may be advisable in certain public settings for LGBTQ+ travelers.
Respect local norms and be mindful of your surroundings.
Engage with communities openly and respectfully.

Additional Support

Specific resources focusing solely on accessibility in Porto Velho are limited. General Brazilian accessibility organizations might offer some guidance.

Guidance Notes

Thorough pre-trip planning is necessary.
Seek assistance from hotels, tour operators, or local contacts.
Direct communication for specific needs is always best.

Important Accessibility Note

Planning Ahead

Thorough research and direct contact with service providers are recommended.
Communicate specific accessibility needs well in advance.
Prepare a detailed itinerary accounting for difficulties with access.

Seeking Assistance

Consider travel with a companion for support.
Arrange specialized support from tour operators or hotels if needed.
Area contacts can be invaluable for navigation.

General Advice

Travel Smart

Always pay attention to what's around you, especially in new environments.
Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
Carry identification at all times.

Stay Informed

Local news or hotel staff share current advisories.
Road conditions or public transport changes can occur.
Be aware of local events impacting travel.

Traveler Information

Pre-trip research is fundamental for a cozy and informed visit to The harboro Velho.

Further Travel Insights

Additional tips for a complete travel experience.

Essential Travel Information

Always verify details closer to your travel date for the most recent information.

Porto Velho Travel Tips