Accommodation in Brazil

Types of Accommodation in Your Itinerary

Hotels

• Urban Centers (Rio, São Paulo, etc.): In major cities, you can expect hotels that meet international standards, ranging from intimate boutique properties to large, well-known chains. Amenities typically include on-site restaurants, swimming pools, and business centers.
• Resort Hotels: These are common in coastal destinations, particularly in the Northeast. They are often large properties operating on an all-inclusive or full-board basis, featuring extensive leisure facilities for a complete holiday experience.

Pousadas

• What they are: A pousada is Brazil’s version of a guesthouse, inn, or bed & breakfast. They are generally smaller than hotels, often family-run, and provide a more personal and authentic Brazilian experience.
• Where to find them: You will find them throughout your itinerary, but they are especially prevalent in smaller colonial towns like Ouro Preto and Paraty, as well as in coastal villages and on islands such as Ilha Grande.
• What to expect: Pousadas prioritize charm and character over extensive amenities. A highlight is the breakfast, which is almost always included. The quality and style of pousadas vary immensely, from simple and rustic to exceptionally chic and luxurious, but a warm welcome is a constant.

Jungle Lodges & Fazendas

• Amazon & Pantanal: In these unique ecosystems, accommodation is specialized and designed to immerse you in nature for wildlife viewing.
• Lodge Characteristics: These are often rustic constructions built with sustainable materials. To enhance the immersive experience, electricity or Wi-Fi may be limited or available only at certain times. Your stay will typically include guided activities and all meals.
• Fazendas (Farms/Ranches): Found primarily in the Pantanal, fazendas are working ranches that also host guests. This offers a fascinating insight into local “pantaneiro” culture alongside incredible wildlife spotting opportunities.

Apartment Rentals

• For Longer Stays: If your itinerary includes a stay of several days in one city, we may have arranged a serviced apartment for your comfort.
• Benefits: This option provides more space, the convenience of kitchen facilities, and the chance to enjoy a “live like a local” atmosphere.

Your Vouchers and the Check-in Process

Reading Your Accommodation Voucher

• Key Information: Your voucher is an important document containing the hotel’s name, address, and contact number, along with your booking confirmation number and the specific dates of your stay.
• Keep it Handy: Please have a digital or printed copy of your voucher ready to present at check-in. Be sure to check it for details on what is included in your rate, such as “Café da Manhã” (Breakfast).

Standard Check-in Procedure

• Required Documents: You will be required to present your passport at check-in. By law, the hotel must take a copy or record its details. Having your accommodation voucher on hand is also recommended.
• Check-in / Check-out Times: Standard check-in time is typically 2:00 PM or 3:00 PM, with check-out between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM. The exact times for your booking will be noted on your voucher.
• Early Arrival: Should you arrive before your room is ready, the hotel will nearly always be happy to store your luggage. This allows you to begin exploring without delay. Please note that an early check-in is a request and not guaranteed unless it has been pre-booked.

Incidental Charges and Deposits

Credit Card Hold: It is standard practice for most hotels to require a credit card upon check-in. They will place a temporary hold on the card to cover any incidental charges you may incur, such as from the minibar or restaurant. This is not a charge; the hold is released after you check out, provided no extras are owed.

Amenities and On-site Realities

Breakfast (Café da Manhã)

• A Brazilian Highlight: A generous breakfast is almost universally included in hotel and pousada stays across Brazil, and it is often a memorable part of the experience.
• What to Expect: You will typically find a generous buffet spread featuring an array of tropical fruits, freshly squeezed juices, various breads, local cheeses, ham, and a selection of cakes, all accompanied by excellent Brazilian coffee.

Power Outlets and Voltage

• Variable Voltage: Brazil does not have a single standard voltage. It can be 127V or 220V, varying by city and sometimes even within the same building. Most modern personal electronics (laptops, phone chargers) are dual-voltage, but it is always wise to check the label on your device’s charger.
• Outlet Type: The official socket used in Brazil is the Type N, which has two round pins and a central grounding pin. To be safe, we strongly advise bringing a universal travel adapter that can accommodate this type.

Wi-Fi and Connectivity

• Availability: Wi-Fi is widely available in most hotels and pousadas, particularly in lobbies and common areas. In-room access is also common, though not guaranteed everywhere.
• Reliability: In major cities, you can expect a generally reliable connection. However, in more remote areas such as the Amazon or the Pantanal, internet service can be slow, intermittent, or entirely non-existent. We recommend downloading any essential maps, books, or documents to your device before heading to these regions.

Safety and Security

• In-Room Safes: We advise you to use the safe provided in your room to store your valuables, such as passports, spare credit cards, extra cash, and jewelry.
• Room Keys: Always be mindful of your room key. In many smaller pousadas, it is customary to leave your physical key at the reception desk when you go out for the day.

Local Norms and Etiquette

Tipping Hotel Staff

• Porters (Maleiros): For staff who assist with your luggage, a tip of R$5 to R$10 per bag is customary and appreciated.
• Housekeeping (Camareiras): It is a kind gesture to leave a tip for the housekeeping staff. Leaving R$5 to R$10 per day on your pillow or bedside table is a common practice.

Understanding the “Taxa de Serviço”

• Service Charge: Be aware that many hotels and restaurants will automatically add a 10% service charge, or “taxa de serviço”, to your bill for extras like food and drinks consumed on-site.
• Is it Optional?: While this charge is legally optional, it is standard cultural practice to pay it unless you received notably poor service. This fee is typically distributed among all service staff.