Boa Vista Travel Checklist. Before You Go, Packing List, Preparation

Essential Preparations

A chronological timeline organizes your pre-trip tasks effectively.

Your Planning Timeline

Organize your steps from months ahead of time to days before departure.

3M

Three Months Before

Passport Validity

Ensure it is valid for six months beyond your departure from Brazil.

Visa Requirements

Research and apply if required for your nationality.

Vaccinations

Get Yellow Fever vaccination for Roraima, allowing A ten-day period for immunity.

1M

One Month Before

Flight & Accommodation

Schedule flights within the country within Brazil and your Boa Vista stays.

Itinerary & Tours

Organize your trip and book major tours or remote excursions.

IDP & Bank

Arrange International Driving Permit if renting a car. Notify bank of travel plans.

1W

One Week Before

Confirmations

Confirm all flight, accommodation, and tour reservations.

Packing & Apps

Pack according to climate. Download offline maps and translation apps.

Currency & Safety

Convert some currency or ensure AVAILABILITY of cash machines. Review health and safety information.

Bookings

Secure advance bookings for flights (international and domestic), accommodations, and specialized tours.

Recommended Bookings

International and domestic flights.
Your accommodations in Boa Vista island.
Specialized tours and excursions.
Popular hotels, especially during peak season.

Pre-Trip Research

Research local customs, basic Portuguese phrases, and current events in Roraima.

Research Areas

Local customs and traditions.
Essential Portuguese expressions for engagement.
Current occasions in Roraima.
Local cuisine and desired attractions.

Home & Arrival

Ahead of leaving, secure your home. These steps create a smooth transition from arrival to settling into Boa Vista.

Home Preparation

Secure your residence.
Arrange for pet or plant care.
Hold mail or arrange collection.
Pay upcoming bills.

First Steps on Arrival

Clear immigration and customs.
Collect your luggage.
Obtain local currency (BRL).
Purchase a local SIM card if desired.

Orientation & Transport

Find nearby pharmacy, supermarket, ATM.
Get to understand the neighborhood.
Identify local bus stops or taxi stands.
Arrange for a ride to accommodation.

Important: Currency Exchange

Exchange a small amount of currency at the airport if needed. Better rates are usually found in the city, and ATMs generally are a good deal.

Departure Preparation

Prepare for your departure to ensure a stress-free exit from Boa Vista island island.

Souvenirs & Shipping

Purchase local artisanal goods to support artisans.
Look for special items created by local artists and communities.
Use Correios (Brazilian Post Office) for shipping.
Their services are widely available for sending items home.
Be aware of Brazilian customs regulations for exports.
Restrictions apply to certain natural items like seeds or wood.

VAT Refunds

Brazil does not offer a general VAT refund scheme.
Unlike a number of countries, tax refunds on purchases are not available.
Do not expect to claim tax refunds.
Factor this into your budget for shopping.
Plan purchases accordingly.
This avoids disappointment at departure.