Guarulhos Sao Paulo, Brazil Travel Guide
Summer (December-February): This time is hot and humid, with regular, heavy rainfall. Average temperatures range from 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F). Expect afternoon downpours, which can be intense but often brief.
Autumn (March-May): Milder temperatures and less precipitation mark autumn. Average temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). This season brings comfortable weather for outdoor activities.
Sightseeing and Outdoor Activities: Autumn (March-May) and Spring (September-November) offer comfortable temperatures and less rain.
Urban Exploration and Shopping: Winter (June-August) brings cooler, drier conditions for walking and indoor activities. Festivals and Events: Summer months (December-February) are associated with major holidays, including Carnival.
December-February
Festivals, major holidays (Carnival).
Higher prices, larger crowds, frequent heavy rain showers.
March-May, September-November
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds, mid-range prices.
Spring months can experience increased rainfall.
June-August
Cooler and drier weather, fewer tourists, lower prices.
Some attractions may have reduced hours; evenings can be chilly.
Brazil has visa-free agreements with many countries for stays up to 90 days, including the United States, Canada, European Union member states, the United Kingdom, Australia, Japan, and South Korea. Check the Brazilian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website or your country's embassy for the most current information regarding your specific nationality. For nationalities requiring a visa, common types include the Tourist Visa (VIVIS) for tourism or short-term courses, and the Business Visa (VITEM II) for meetings or conferences. Some nationalities may be eligible for an eVisa, simplifying the process. IVisa and VisaHQ offer application services.
No general entry fees apply for tourists. Immigration procedures at the airport involve presenting a valid passport, return ticket, and sometimes proof of accommodation or funds. A digital entry/exit card (e-DNI) may be used. Officers might ask about your trip purpose and duration.
Valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.
Proof of your departure from Brazil.
Evidence of sufficient sufficient money for your stay.
Proof of hotel reservations or a letter of invitation.
Recommended for travelers from risk areas; proof may be requested.
Brazil uses the Real, and travel costs vary based on your style.
The currency is the Brazilian Real (BRL, R$). Exchange services are available at banks, authorized Casas de Câmbio, and São Paulo/Guarulhos International Airport (GRU). ATMs are widely accessible and often offer competitive rates. Major credit and debit cards are extensively accepted in urban areas. Inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid card blocks.
A 10% service charge ("serviço") is commonly added to restaurant bills. If not part of the price, 10% is standard. Tipping beyond this is for excellent service. For taxis, rounding up the fare is customary. Small tips (R$ 5-10) are appreciated by hotel staff. Tour guides may receive R$ 20-50, based on duration and quality.
This section addresses medical recommendations, safety tips, and emergency contacts for a confident journey.
Guarulhos, part of a large the metro area, experiences varying crime rates. Areas around GRU airport are generally monitored. In São Paulo City, pickpocketing, bag snatching, and street robberies are common, especially in crowded tourist areas.
General Safety Advice: Be aware of your surroundings, avoid walking alone at night in dimly lit areas, use official cabs or ride-sharing apps, and do not resist if confronted by robbers. Valuables should be out of sight.
Public Hospitals (SUS) are free it can be overcrowded. Private Hospitals/Clinics offer high-quality care but require payment or comprehensive travel insurance.
Many private medical professionals in São Paulo speak English.
Public hospitals can have long wait times.
It's highly recommended to have comprehensive travel insurance. It should cover medical emergencies, emergency evacuation, trip disruption coverage, and baggage loss/theft. World Nomads and SafetyWing are options.
Check policy details to meet your specific needs.
Some visa categories may require travel insurance.
Keep police, ambulance, and fire department numbers readily available. Also, contact information for your country's diplomatic representation in São Paulo.
Police: 190, Ambulance: 192, Emergency Fire services: 193.
Report lost passports or serious incidents immediately.
| Category | Guarulhos Areas | São Paulo Metropolitan Areas |
|---|---|---|
| Crime Rates | Varying, airport areas generally monitored. | Pickpocketing, bag snatching common in crowded tourist spots. |
| Favelas | Not generally advised for tourists. | Not generally advised for tourists without organized tours. |
| Safety Measures | Awareness, secure valuables, use official transport. | Avoid open exhibition of valuables, use official taxis or rideshare. |
