The best time to visit Rio de Janeiro depending on what you want: beach, hiking, Carnival or lower prices. Month-by-month weather, packing tips and rainy-day ideas.
Dec–Mar
Summer: 86–95 °F, afternoon showers
May–Oct
Dry and mild (68–79 °F): best for hiking
July
The driest, coolest month
Rio has a tropical climate: there's no bad time to go, but some months suit certain trips better. For beach, heat and parties, come December to March (and book early). For hiking and clear views of Christ the Redeemer, May to October brings drier air. Winter here means about 77 °F afternoons.
Weather month by month
Approximate averages in Rio de Janeiro
Temperatures in °C, rain in mm/month, sea temperature. Reference climate data: every year varies.
● Best months
Seasons and key events
Quick calendar 2026–2027
October 2026
- Oct1→ Oct 11
Rio Film Festival
Which season suits you?
| Summer (Dec–Mar) | Fall (Apr–May) | Winter (Jun–Aug) | Spring (Sep–Nov) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Beach | Excellent | Very good | Nice days, cool water | Good |
| Hiking & views | Very hot, go early | Very good | The best | Good |
| Prices | Highest | Moderate | Moderate (July holidays) | Good value |
| Vibe | NYE, Carnival, parties | Relaxed | June festivals, whales | Samba school rehearsals from Nov |
What to pack by season
Your Rio packing list
What if it rains?
Museum of Tomorrow & Praça Mauá
Science and architecture, reached by light rail from downtown.
Historic downtown & cafés
Royal Portuguese Reading Room, Municipal Theater and Confeitaria Colombo.
Feijoada & a local bar
The classic Carioca plan for a gray afternoon.
Frequently asked questions
For a balance of weather, prices and little rain: April, May, September and October. For parties: December to February.
Make the most of sunny days
Guided hikes, Sugarloaf at sunset and sunrise paddleboarding, with pickup included.
Recommended tours for this guide
Book online with a local guide, a fixed price and payment by international card or Pix.
