Self-drive in Brazil

Being able to enjoy the freedom of the open road and to stop off wherever you please makes a self-drive trip through Brazil very enjoyable. Drive through small towns, have picnics on deserted beaches or park on top of a hill to take pictures. Our self-drive trips in Brazil include rental cars from a renowned car rental organisation with rental offices throughout South America.

Google Maps is generally a great way to find your way around in Brazil. Just make sure to download your routes in advance, as internet coverage isn’t always reliable everywhere. Navigation itself usually works smoothly, but be cautious not to let Google Maps guide you through less safe areas as a shortcut. If your phone dies or you can’t follow the route on your device for any reason, don’t worry! You’ll also receive a detailed road book beforehand, so you won’t get lost. It includes kilometre-specific instructions, warnings about impassable roads, and tips for interesting sights along the way. Before departure, check the condition of the roads on your route with the car rental company. They can inform you about the latest changes.

We recommend sticking to main roads and avoid driving at night, particularly in rural or less populated areas. Always keep your doors locked and windows up, especially in cities or at traffic lights. Avoid leaving valuables visible in the car, and park in secure areas whenever possible. If you’re unsure about a route, ask locals or your accommodation for advice. By staying alert and planning ahead, you can enjoy a safe and stress-free journey through this beautiful country!

The roads in Brazil are a mix: highways (BR routes) are generally in good condition, but smaller roads are prone to potholes. Road signs are clear and mostly in Portuguese, but the symbols are often internationally recognizable. You’ll find plenty of petrol stations, even in remote areas. You’ll usually have a choice between petrol (gasolina) and ethanol (álcool), so make sure you know what your car requires. Petrol isn’t very expensive in Brazil – it costs approximately US$1.20 per litre for petrol and $0.85 for ethanol. Petrol stations often only accept cash payments.

As everywhere else in the world, reservations are based on the category and not on the make or type of car. The types mentioned are examples. If, contrary to expectations, the reserved category is not available, a higher class will be offered at the same price. If you want to rent a larger car on site, you will pay a surcharge according to local rates. The load capacity is always limited. Often, if you travel with more than 2 people, more luggage is taken with you than fits in the car. Travel bags are therefore more practical than suitcases. A higher category often offers more cargo space.

Hyundai HB20S 1.0 (or similar)

• Air-conditioning
• Manual transmission
• Fits max. 2 people
• Insurance included

Ford Ecosport 2.0 (or similar)

• Air-conditioning
• Automatic transmission
• Fits max. 4 people
• Insurance included

Spin LTZ 1.8 (or similar)

• Air-conditioning
• Automatic transmission
• Fits 4 people comfortably
• Insurance included

Included with car rental

Unlimited mileage
Local tax
Possibly airport tax
Map/Information Pack
Drop-off fee

Third-Party Liability Insurance: Property damage up to US$ 25,000 and personal injury up to US$ 50,000. Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and Theft Insurance (TPLW) with a small amount of personal risk is also included in the rental price. In Brazil, there is no insurance without a deductible. The deductible is US$ 300 for category A and C cars and US$ 500 for all other categories. PAI (Personal Accident) accident insurance is also included, but if you have good travel insurance, you are covered against all medical costs.

Not included costs on-site

Fuel
Costs for second drivers (USD 5.00 per day to be paid locally)
Any costs for bringing the car to your hotel, see below
Any extra equipment such as a child seat
Any cost of a child seat (USD 7.50 per day to be paid locally)
Deposit

All costs to be paid on-site are subject to change. The car rental company has the right to change the costs without notice.

Drop-off fees

These are the drop-off fees that are charged if you pick your rental car up in one location and leave it behind at another. These fees are included in the price of your trip.

Extra facilities

Car seats for children are mandatory up until 6 years old. A children’s car seat can be hired for approximately US$ 7.50 per day. This needs to be included at the time of trip booking. The use of seat belts in the back seat is mandatory.

Driving licence

In order to hire a car, you must have been in possession of a valid driving licence for at least 2 years and be over 21 years old. This also applies to any additional drivers. During a self-drive, you must have your driving licence with you. An international driving licence is no longer required.