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Best Times To Visit Rio de Janeiro
The best time to visit Rio is between December and March, when the weather is warm and sunny enough to hit the beaches, although there may be quick but heavy downpours in the evenings. The city's seductive samba beat and incredible panoramic views last year-round, but arrive in February to experience Carnival. This five-day festival leading up to Fat Tuesday brings tens of thousands of visitors and locals to the streets for parades and parties. Finding an affordable place to stay during Carnival can be difficult; you should consider booking your hotel and flight up to a year in advance. Between January and March, daytime temperatures can sometimes surpass 90 or 100 degrees Fahrenheit. If you prefer more moderate conditions, visit during autumn (April and May) or spring (October and November), when temps fall back to the 70s and low 80s during the day and the 60s at night.
Weather in Rio de Janeiro
Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center
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| December-March | This is Rio's peak season. The city's most notable events — including Reveillon (New Year's Eve) and Carnival — take place during Brazil's summer, which lasts from December through March. Approximately 2 million people come to Rio to celebrate New Year's Eve with live music, firework shows and good spirits on Copacabana Beach (top tip: wear white for the celebrations like the locals do to supposedly bring peace for the following year). Hotel prices can be inflated during these months, so book early to ensure availability. Also, expect crowds on the main city beaches when temperatures hover in the mid-80s (or higher). This is also the season when Rio de Janeiro sees the most rainfall, so pack an umbrella. Key Events
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| April-May | Crowds and hot summer weather dissipate in May. But don't expect Rio's humidity to disappear: Rio de Janeiro is notorious for its year-round damp tropical heat. After Easter, you'll find cheaper room rates. Key Events
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| June-September | During Brazil's winter season, locals wrap up in the moderate weather. Expect mild temperatures and regular hotel prices. These months are also ideal for sightseeing: There are fewer rain showers and less fog on Corcovado and Sugarloaf Mountain. Key Events
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| October-November | Spring is an ideal time for visitors seeking sun and adventure. Mild and relatively dry weather (more rain than in the winter but less than the summer), fewer crowds and more room to sprawl out on the beaches are all part of the allure. If you don't mind missing the festival hoopla, you'll save money by booking a hotel at this time of year. Key Events
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Popular Times to Visit Rio de Janeiro
Tourism volume is estimated based on in-market destination search query interest from Google and on travel.usnews.com in 2015-2016. Hotel prices are sourced from a sample of U.S. News Best Hotels rates through 2015-2016.
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