Brazil All-Inclusive Travel Guide
Bahia is Brazil at its most soulful – the cradle of Afro-Brazilian culture, where the food is rich, the music is everywhere, and the coastline runs for warm, palm-backed miles. A stretch of resorts near Salvador makes an easy all-inclusive base, but note one big change for US travelers: you now need an eVisa before you fly.
Last reviewed June 2026 · Always confirm entry and safety details with official government sources before you travel.
Do you need a passport or eVisa for Brazil?
Yes to both. U.S. citizens now need an eVisa to enter Brazil – a change from the recent visa-free period. Apply online in advance through the official VFS Global eVisa portal; the tourist eVisa costs around US$80.90 and is valid for up to ten years with multiple entries. Carry a passport with at least six months' validity.
Apply well before you travel and confirm the current process and fee on travel.state.gov and the official Brazilian government portal.
Is Brazil safe?
The U.S. State Department rates Brazil overall Level 2, 'Exercise Increased Caution,' mainly due to crime; several specific areas (certain urban neighborhoods and border zones) carry higher 'Do Not Travel' warnings. Salvador is a rewarding cultural city but has elevated petty and street crime.
Stay in tourist areas, avoid displaying valuables, use registered taxis or rideshares at night, and skip isolated spots. Check travel.state.gov for the latest before you go.
Currency and tipping
The currency is the Brazilian real (BRL). Unlike much of the Caribbean, U.S. dollars are not generally used for everyday payments – cards are widely accepted, and it's wise to carry some reais for taxis, markets, and tips.
Restaurants usually add a 10% service charge (serviço); that's effectively the tip, though rounding up for great service is welcome. Tip guides and drivers a bit at your discretion.
When to visit
Bahia is warm year-round. The drier, sunnier stretch runs roughly September to March; the wettest months tend to be April through July. Note that Brazil's seasons are flipped from the U.S. – the local summer peaks around December to February.
Carnival (February or March) is spectacular in Salvador but very busy and pricey; book far ahead if that's the draw.
Getting there & around
Fly into Salvador (SSA), usually via a connection through a U.S. or Brazilian hub, then transfer to the coast – most resorts arrange this. Brazil drives on the right.
For day trips, prebooked transfers and rideshare apps are the easiest and safest options; self-driving is doable but signage and city traffic can be challenging for first-timers.
What to do beyond the resort
Explore Salvador's UNESCO-listed Pelourinho – pastel colonial streets, baroque churches, and the pulse of live drumming and capoeira. Try Bahian classics like moqueca and acarajé, and time a folkloric show if you can.
Up the coast, the Praia do Forte area mixes beaches with a sea-turtle conservation project, and boat trips reach reef pools and quieter sands.
Good to know
Power & plugs: Brazil uses the unusual Type N plug at 127V or 220V depending on region, so bring an adapter and check voltage. Driving is on the right.
Water: drink bottled or filtered water. Language: Portuguese is essential outside resorts, so a translation app helps. Sun: it's strong and close to the equator – pack reef-safe sunscreen.
The best all-inclusive resorts in Brazil
The Brazil properties we'd actually book — tap through for photos, real guest ratings, and what's included.
Frequently asked questions
Do U.S. citizens need a visa for Brazil?
Yes. U.S. citizens now need an eVisa, obtained in advance via the official VFS Global portal. It costs around US$80.90 and is valid up to ten years with multiple entries.
How do I get the Brazil eVisa?
Apply online before you travel through Brazil's official VFS Global eVisa portal, with your passport and a photo. Apply early, and confirm the current fee and steps on travel.state.gov.
Is Brazil safe?
Brazil is rated Level 2, 'Exercise Increased Caution,' by the U.S. State Department, with some areas higher. Salvador rewards visitors but has elevated street crime – stay in tourist areas and check travel.state.gov.
Can I use U.S. dollars in Brazil?
Not really – everyday payments are in Brazilian reais, and cards are widely accepted. Carry some reais for taxis, markets, and tips rather than relying on dollars.
Do you tip in Brazil?
Restaurants typically add a 10% service charge, which serves as the tip; rounding up for great service is welcome. Tipping guides and drivers a little is appreciated.
When is the best time to visit Bahia?
It's warm all year, with the drier, sunnier season roughly September to March. Carnival in February or March is dazzling in Salvador but crowded and expensive.
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