October in Brazil is still part of the shoulder season, offering pleasant weather and fewer crowds compared to peak months. As spring unfolds, temperatures remain comfortable, making it a great time to explore diverse destinations across the country. Whether you’re looking for cultural festivals, stunning beaches, or breathtaking nature, here are the best places to visit in Brazil in October.
- Blumenau, Santa Catarina – Oktoberfest
- Pantanal, Mato Grosso and Mato Grosso do Sul – Wildlife watching
- Aracaju, Sergipe – Tranquil beaches and local culture
- Itacaré, Bahia – Surfing and ecotourism
- Arraial do Cabo, Rio de Janeiro – Crystal-clear waters and diving spots
What is the weather in Brazil in October?
October marks the height of spring in Brazil, bringing mild to warm temperatures across the country. In the southern regions, such as Rio Grande do Sul and Santa Catarina, temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), with occasional rain showers. The central and southeastern regions, including São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, experience pleasant weather, with averages between 20°C and 30°C (68°F to 86°F).
In the northeast, destinations like Salvador and Recife enjoy hot and sunny days, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). The Amazon and Pantanal regions remain humid and warm, but October is still a great time for wildlife spotting, as the dry season is ending.
Overall, Brazil in October offers comfortable temperatures, blooming landscapes, and fewer tourists, making it an excellent month for travel.
Blumenau, Santa Catarina (Oktoberfest)
German tradition extends to Brazil with Blumenau’s Oktoberfest. Since 1984, this festival has offered 19 days of beer celebrations, making it a great reason to visit the city. Highlights include traditional dances (Tanzgruppen), folklore groups, brass bands, and even shooting clubs (Schützenvereine).
Music and food are also essential to the festivities. One of the most popular events is the National Beer Drinking Contest.
At Parque Vila Germânica, you’ll find delicious traditional dishes such as stuffed quail with duck giblets and stuffed potatoes, both favorites among visitors.
Pantanal, Mato Grosso and Mato Grosso do Sul
The Pantanal, spanning Mato Grosso and Mato Grosso do Sul, is divided into the Northern (Barão de Melgaço, Cáceres, and Poconé) and Southern (Aquidauana, Corumbá, and Miranda) regions. The area offers diverse activities, including canoeing.
In Poconé, you can spot caimans and jabiru storks. Cáceres hosts the International Fishing Festival, a local tradition. Barão de Melgaço is home to Chacororé Bay, a must-see attraction.
In Aquidauana, don’t miss Paxixi Hill, the Pantanal State Park of Rio Negro, Lagoa Comprida Park, and the Marechal José Machado Lopes Museum. In Corumbá, the Pantanal History Museum is a key attraction.
As for cuisine, the arroz de carreteiro (a beef and rice dish) is a regional staple, and piranha soup is another well-known specialty.
Aracaju, Sergipe
The capital of Sergipe boasts stunning beaches, including Aruana Beach, Refúgio Beach, Robalo Beach, Naufrágio Beach, and Atalaia Beach.
Other attractions include the Caranguejo Walkway, Praça dos Lagos, Croa do Goré, Lovers’ Island, Oceanarium, Art and Culture Center, Museum of Sergipe People, Municipal Market, Olímpio Campos Museum Palace, Metropolitan Cathedral, and Tourist Street.
When it comes to food, mangaba fruit is a local highlight, along with crab dishes, feijoada, and seafood soups.
Itacaré, Bahia
Located on Bahia’s southern coast, Itacaré is a top destination in northeastern Brazil, offering stunning beaches, rivers, waterfalls, and diverse tours.
Some must-visit beaches include Concha Beach, Resende Beach, Tiririca Beach, Costa Beach, and Ribeira Beach.
The Four Beaches Trail is a popular hike that takes you to Engenhoca Beach, Havaizinho Beach, Camboinha Beach, and Itacarezinho Beach.
The region also boasts breathtaking waterfalls, such as Tijuípe Waterfall, Cleandro Waterfall, Bom Sossego Waterfall, and Usina Waterfall.
Another great tour includes a visit to Barra Grande and Taipu de Fora, while a canoe ride on the Rio de Contas—one of Brazil’s major rivers—is a unique experience.
Arraial do Cabo, Rio de Janeiro
Located in Rio’s Lakes Region, Arraial do Cabo is famous for its breathtaking beaches.
Among the top beaches are Farol Beach, Forno Beach, Pontal do Atalaia Prainhas, Grande Beach, Brava Beach, Pontal Beach, and Anjos Beach.
The Historic Center features attractions like Nossa Senhora dos Remédios Church, Casa de Piedra, and the Almirante Paulo Moreira Oceanographic Museum.
Arraial do Cabo’s seafood is a highlight. Fresh fish, codfish fritters, and pasta with grilled shrimp and pink peppercorns are among the region’s top dishes.
October is a fantastic time to explore Brazil, offering a mix of cultural festivals, breathtaking natural landscapes, and sunny coastal getaways. Whether you’re enjoying the festivities of Oktoberfest in Blumenau, spotting wildlife in the Pantanal, relaxing on the beaches of Aracaju and Itacaré, or discovering the crystal-clear waters of Arraial do Cabo, this month has something for every traveler.
Want to explore Brazil in other seasons? Check out our monthly travel guides for the best things to do in Brazil throughout the year:
What to do in Brazil in December
What to do in Brazil in November
Best places to visit in Brazil in October
Best destinations to visit in Brazil in September
Best destinations to visit in Brazil in august
