Is 2 weeks enough time for Brazil?

Yes, for 3-4 major destinations. You'll get a good taste of beach culture, colonial history, urban Brazil, and natural wonders. More time allows Amazon or Pantanal additions.

Should I learn Portuguese before going?

Helpful but not required in major tourist areas. Learn basic greetings and food terms. Download Google Translate with offline Portuguese. Most younger people in Rio and São Paulo speak some English.

Is Brazil safe for tourists?

Yes, with normal precautions. Stay in tourist areas at night, don't flash expensive items, use official taxis or Uber. Beach theft is common - bring minimal items to beaches.

What's the best way to get around between cities?

Domestic flights for long distances. Bus system is extensive and comfortable for shorter routes but takes much longer. GOL and AZUL airlines offer reasonable domestic rates booked in advance.

How to spend 2 weeks in Brazil

Two weeks in Brazil works best split between 3-4 destinations: Rio de Janeiro (4 days), Salvador (3 days), Foz do Iguaçu (2 days), and São Paulo (3 days), with 2-3 buffer days for travel. Book domestic flights early and expect to spend $80-120 per day including accommodation, food, and activities.

Choose your 3-4 core destinations. Brazil is massive. Pick Rio de Janeiro as your base (4 days minimum), then add Salvador for culture and beaches (3 days), Foz do Iguaçu for Iguazu Falls (2 days), and São Paulo for urban Brazil (3 days). Skip the Amazon unless you have 3+ weeks total.
Book flights strategically. Fly into Rio or São Paulo internationally. Book domestic flights on GOL or AZUL airlines 2-3 months ahead for routes like Rio-Salvador ($150), Salvador-Foz do Iguaçu ($200), Foz-São Paulo ($120). Flights fill up and prices double during Carnival season.
Plan around seasons and events. December-March is summer (hot, crowded, expensive). April-May and September-November offer better weather and prices. Avoid Carnival week unless that's your main goal — accommodation triples in price and books out 6 months ahead.
Handle visa requirements early. US citizens need a visa ($160, takes 2-3 weeks). Canadians and most Europeans get 90 days visa-free. Get yellow fever vaccination if visiting Pantanal or Amazon regions. Keep vaccination certificate with passport.
Set up money access. Bring a no-foreign-fee debit card. ATMs are everywhere in cities. Notify your bank. Many places are cash-only, especially street food and small shops. Exchange at official casas de câmbio, not airports.

Is 2 weeks enough time for Brazil?: Yes, for 3-4 major destinations. You'll get a good taste of beach culture, colonial history, urban Brazil, and natural wonders. More time allows Amazon or Pantanal additions.
Should I learn Portuguese before going?: Helpful but not required in major tourist areas. Learn basic greetings and food terms. Download Google Translate with offline Portuguese. Most younger people in Rio and São Paulo speak some English.
Is Brazil safe for tourists?: Yes, with normal precautions. Stay in tourist areas at night, don't flash expensive items, use official taxis or Uber. Beach theft is common - bring minimal items to beaches.
What's the best way to get around between cities?: Domestic flights for long distances. Bus system is extensive and comfortable for shorter routes but takes much longer. GOL and AZUL airlines offer reasonable domestic rates booked in advance.