Traveling through Brazil in May means experiencing a transitional period marked by mild temperatures in the South and Southeast, while the Northeast keeps its strong sun and inviting beaches. This climate diversity makes the month ideal for different travel styles.
With fewer tourists and more attractive prices, May stands out as one of the most advantageous months of the calendar to explore the country. It’s the chance to discover destinations more calmly and enjoy authentic experiences.
Brasil ATM has gathered detailed information about weather, attractions, and itineraries to help travelers plan their trip through Brazil in May in the best way.
What is the weather like in Brazil in May?
Brazil, being a continental country, presents large climate differences among its regions. May marks the autumn season on the calendar, but the impact of this season varies greatly depending on the destination chosen.
General overview of the weather in May:
- South: temperature drop with a feeling of winter approaching, cold nights and possibility of frost in mountain towns.
- Southeast: mild climate, less rain, and more stable days, great for urban and cultural tourism.
- Northeast: still with strong sun, heat, and little rain in most of the region, ideal for beaches.
- Center-West: dry season starting, perfect to explore Chapadas and the Pantanal.
- North: Amazon remains rainy, but the full rivers offer lush landscapes.
Table – Average temperatures in May by region
| Region | Average temperature | Typical rainfall | Climate highlight |
| South | 10ºC – 20ºC | Low to moderate | Cold nights and mountain vibe |
| Southeast | 15ºC – 25ºC | Low | Mild days, ideal for outings |
| Northeast | 23ºC – 30ºC | Low to moderate | Sunny beaches |
| Center-West | 18ºC – 28ºC | Lower rainfall volume | Start of the dry season |
| North | 24ºC – 30ºC | High | Full rivers and lush forest |
Comparison with other months:
- April: still more rain in several regions.
- May: more stable weather, dry season starting in the Center-West, and mild temperatures in the Southeast and South.
- June: winter already more evident in the South, with intense cold in some areas.
Is it worth traveling through Brazil in May?
Yes, very much so. May is outside high season, which means fewer tourists, lower prices, and calmer attractions. Moreover, it’s a transitional month that provides unique experiences in each region.
Advantages of traveling in May:
- Cheaper accommodations and flights.
- Less movement in tourist spots.
- Pleasant weather to combine beaches, mountains, and cities.
Disadvantages:
- In some regions of the North and Northeast it may rain more.
- It’s not high season, so some events or attractions may have reduced hours.
Events and festivals in May:
- Curitiba Theater Festival (PR).
- Pre-June festivities in Northeastern towns.
- Brasília’s anniversary (April 21 extends celebrations into May).
- Wine events in mountain regions.
Best destinations to visit Brazil in May
Choosing the best destinations to visit Brazil in May depends on the travel style each person seeks. While some regions offer perfect weather to enjoy sunny beaches, others stand out for the mountain chill or the lushness of nature.
Here are varied options to inspire your itinerary.
Sunny Northeast
The Northeast continues to be one of the best places to travel in May. Heat and sun predominate in destinations such as:
- Salvador (BA): culture, gastronomy, and historic beaches.
- Maceió (AL): crystal-clear sea, natural pools, and excellent infrastructure.
- Porto de Galinhas (PE): reefs and raft rides.
- Jericoacoara (CE): dunes, lagoons, and an unforgettable sunset.
Lush Amazon
Despite the rain, the Amazon in May impresses with the spectacle of full rivers, allowing easy navigation through streams and flooded forests. It’s the ideal time to witness the strength of nature and join boat tours.
South with chill arriving
- Gramado and Canela (RS): European-style climate, cozy hotels, and wines.
- Santa Catarina Mountains: towns like Urubici start registering near-zero temperatures.
- Vale dos Vinhedos (RS): great time for tastings and winery visits.
Cultural Southeast
- São Paulo (SP): intense urban life, museums, and gastronomy.
- Rio de Janeiro (RJ): mild weather, less crowded beaches, and pleasant trails.
- Minas Gerais (Ouro Preto, Tiradentes): historic towns with perfect weather for walking tours.
Center-West
- Chapada dos Veadeiros (GO): trails, waterfalls, and surreal landscapes with dry weather.
- Pantanal (MS/MT): beginning of the animal-spotting season, as low waters attract fauna to more visible areas.
Comparative table – destinations in May
| Region | Highlight destinations | Ideal travel profile |
| Northeast | Salvador, Porto de Galinhas | Beach, culture, families and couples |
| North | Manaus and Amazon | Nature, adventure, and ecotourism |
| South | Gramado, Santa Catarina | Cold, romance, and wine tourism |
| Southeast | São Paulo, Rio, Minas | Urban and historic tourism |
| Center-West | Chapada and Pantanal | Trails, fauna, flora, and photography |
What to do in Brazil in May?
In addition to choosing strategic destinations, it’s worth considering activities that match the period.
- Northeast beaches: enjoy the warm water and sunny days.
- Cultural tours in the Southeast: museums, theaters, and gastronomy in São Paulo, Rio, and Minas.
- Winter routes in the South: visit wineries, colonial cafés, and enjoy boutique hotels.
- Ecotourism in the Center-West: trails in Chapada dos Veadeiros or a Pantanal safari.
- Amazon adventure: boat tours, wildlife observation, and visits to riverside communities.
Suggested itinerary to travel through Brazil in May
Planning an itinerary to travel through Brazil in May is a practical way to enjoy the best of each region according to the period’s climate.
To make planning easier, we’ve gathered suggestions that combine beaches, mountain towns, and nature destinations in different travel formats.
1. Itinerary through the Northeast (7 days):
- Salvador (2 days) – Historic Center and beaches.
- Porto de Galinhas (3 days) – Natural pools and buggy rides.
- Recife and Olinda (2 days) – Culture and gastronomy.
2. Itinerary through the South (7 days):
- Gramado (3 days) – Serra Gaúcha and chocolate shops.
- Canela (2 days) – Caracol Park and adventure tours.
- Bento Gonçalves (2 days) – Vale dos Vinhedos.
3. Nature itinerary (7 days):
- Chapada dos Veadeiros (3 days) – trails and waterfalls.
- Pantanal (4 days) – wildlife observation and safaris.
Comparison: traveling in May vs other months
| Criteria | May | High season (Dec/Jan/Jul) | Low season (Mar/Apr) |
| Prices | Lower | Higher | Low |
| Weather | Mild and stable | Hot or rainy | More unstable |
| Movement | Fewer tourists | Maximum crowds | Medium |
| Attractions | Accessible and peaceful | Queues and overcrowding | Varied |
Practical tips for traveling in May
When organizing a trip through Brazil in May, some care makes all the difference to ensure comfort and safety. From choosing the right clothes to planning reservations, we’ve gathered practical tips to make your experience easier during this period.
- What to pack:
- Northeast: light clothes, sunscreen, and a hat.
- South and Southeast: jackets, mid-season clothes.
- Center-West: sneakers for trails, light clothes.
- Planning: book accommodation in advance in destinations like Gramado and Jericoacoara.
- Domestic travel insurance: worth contracting to ensure medical assistance and coverage for unforeseen events.
Conclusion
Traveling through Brazil in May is discovering the country in a more peaceful, authentic, and accessible version. The weather favors both those seeking sunny beaches and those preferring the mountain chill, without forgetting the charm of historic towns and the grandeur of nature.
It’s the perfect month to combine savings, comfort, and unforgettable experiences. If you’re planning your next trip, consider including Brazil in May in your itinerary — and get ready to experience the country in a unique way.
Plan your trip to Brazil in May now, choose your favorite destination, and make the most of this special month!
Where to withdraw money from ATM24h machines in Brazil
To make the most of your trip through Brazil, carry cash. This ensures a smooth and amazing experience. In some places, it’s essential to eat, get around, pay for attractions, etc.
See below some ATM24h machines in the regions mentioned in this article:
| Where | Location |
| Guarulhos Airport – São Paulo | See all locations |
| Congonhas Airport – São Paulo | See all locations |
| Curitiba Airport | See all locations |
| Brasília Airport | See all locations |
| Florianópolis Airport | See all locations |
Discover Brasil ATM
At Brasil ATM, we see Brazil as a place full of unique beauty and fascinating culture. Our portal, supported by the global brand ATM24h, shows our love for Brazil. We want to inspire tourists to explore its wonders safely and informed.
We provide accurate, updated, and inspiring information in three languages. That way, you have everything you need to confidently plan your trip. We have everything for travelers: travel guides, detailed itineraries, and planning tips.
We want to create lasting memories. We’ll showcase Brazil’s natural and cultural beauty. Explore famous destinations like Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo. Also discover hidden treasures like Lençóis Maranhenses and Fernando de Noronha. We’re here to help you make the most of your trip.
Did you like this article? Read more about Brazil:
- Brazil in April – What to do, where to go, and what the weather is like
- Brazil in March – What to do, where to go and what the weather is like
- Brazil in February – What to do, where to go and what the weather is like
- Brazil in January – What to do, where to go and what the weather is like
Frequently asked questions:
The weather in Brazil in May varies by region: cold in the South, mild in the Southeast, and hot in the Northeast. In the North, the Amazon remains with full rivers. Check Brasil ATM for detailed weather info in each destination.
Yes. It’s one of the most advantageous months, with lower prices, fewer tourists, and favorable weather for different travel styles. Plan your itinerary with tips from Brasil ATM.
In the Northeast, sunny beaches; in the South, mountain towns with chill; in the Center-West, Chapadas and Pantanal; and in the Southeast, cultural tours. Explore at Brasil ATM the best destinations for May.
Activities range from beaches in the Northeast to cultural tours in the Southeast, trails in the Center-West, and wineries in the South. Options for all profiles. Discover unmissable May experiences at Brasil ATM.
No. May is outside high season, with prices up to 30% lower than during school holidays and year-end festivities. Learn how to save on flights and hotels with Brasil ATM.
