Weather
The first 2-3 weeks of March are still considered summer, with sunny days in the south and rain for the first half of the month. The Amazon and popular Pantanal are still in the midst of the rainy season, and there is heavy rain in the north and northeast parts of the country. The temperatures are around 80-85℉ in Salvador and Rio de Janeiro, while Brasilia has a cooler climate with temperatures around 68-75℉. There is a possibility of summer storms in March, and overall it is warm and humid throughout Brazil during this period.
Crowds & Costs
March is considered the low season in Brazil, but the beginning and end of the month can be heavily crowded if the Carnival and Easter both fall in March. In the case when only one event takes place, it will be busier with bigger crowds and higher costs.
If neither of the events occurs during the month, it is an excellent time to book your trip at a lower price, as you can expect a more quiet vacation than during the rest of the summer high season. If you visit on the weekdays during a lull, you'll get the chance to relax on the beaches without sharing them with crowds of vacation-goers.
Where to Go
The best places to visit in March are São Paulo, Olinda, Fernando De Noronha, Florianopolis, and the Iguaçu Falls, which you can explore on this 10-day active itinerary. The falls are still massive from the heavy rains during the rainy season, and many trails around the falls open again for hiking. It is one of the best months to visit.
São Paulo has warm weather and is perfect for sightseeing, culture, and nightlife in March. It is known as the business and monetary capital of Brazil, with several urban areas, beaches, and historical centers. The metropolitan city has something for everyone, with trendy bars on beaches like Praca Roosevelt, excellent restaurants, and historical museums.
In Olinda, you can enjoy history, culture, and stunning views. The city was established in the mid-16th century and is a must-visit in March. You will find 18th-century communities, dynamically shaded houses, ornate churches, and beautiful ocean views. If the carnival takes place in March, you'll experience one of the country's biggest celebrations in Olinda and nearby Recife.
Fernando de Noronha, a volcanic archipelago located 217 miles (350 km) off the coast of Brazil, offers coastlines with stunning views and shallow oceans overflowing with tropical fish, turtles, sharks, and dolphins. March is a good time to experience the turtle nesting season on its beaches: one of the island’s best nesting beaches, Praia do Leão, closes from late evening to early morning to enable the turtles to lay eggs in peace.
Florianopolis is known for its beautiful shorelines and pastel-tinted dusks, making it one of the top places to visit in March. Most of the region is under environmental protection, with approximately 100 beaches encompassed by mountains. You can hike the 34-mile (54 km) long shorelines on Catarina Island and visit the Lagoa da Conceição—a saltwater tidal pond, perfect for windsurfing and boat trips.
What to Do
You will find a lot of culture in March, as well as great hiking and beach fun. It is one of the best times to visit the Iguaçu Falls, and a lot of festivities usually take place at the beginning of the month, especially if the carnival season is in full spin. City sightseeing is excellent in March, and in the southern part of Brazil, the weather is warm enough to swim, dive, and enjoy fun sea activities in the waters. Take advantage of the nice weather to go on boat tours and hike through beautiful landscapes. The north is slightly colder and rainier but still makes for fantastic exploration.
Events in March
Carnival Rio de Janeiro (end of February to early March). During the five days preceding Ash Wednesday, the famous event takes over cities throughout the country. In Rio, colorful parades, extravagant costumes, general revelry make for an unforgettable experience.
Carnival Salvador (end of February). This Carnival is one of the most popular events in Brazil and features a number of artist performances to the sound of axe beats (a local music genre). It takes place in Salvador and lasts around 10 days, with more than a million visitors each year.
Good Friday & Easter Sunday (end of March & sometimes April). It falls on the day after the culmination of Holy Week. Many Brazilians spend their holiday spending time with family or traveling. Grand processions are held throughout the country.
Traveling to Brazil in March? Check out these great itineraries.
Rio de Janeiro and Iguazu Falls - 7 Days. On this weeklong trip to Brazil, experience city life and connect with nature. The trip kicks off in Rio de Janeiro, with a full-day city tour of sites like Christ the Redeemer, Sugar Loaf Mountain, and all the best beaches. Then, take a day trip to Pedra Bonita for scenic viewpoints and venture to the Iguaçu Falls (Iguazú Falls in Spanish). Enjoy some free time before experiencing the falls from both the Brazilian and Argentinian sides, and touring the Iguaçu River.
Brazil's Fernando de Noronha Island - 6 Days. This tour is perfect in March, with explorations of the spectacular Fernando de Noronha Island, a secluded island paradise located hundreds of miles away from the nearest coast. Go snorkeling and diving among the coral reefs, hike along the island's trails for views of turquoise waters and dramatic cliffs, or unwind on the white-sand beaches — voted the world's most beautiful.
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