About Brazil
Language
The main language in Brazil is Portuguese.
Currency
The local currency is Brazilian Real (BRL).
$100 bills must be 2003 or later, or they will not be accepted. For travellers checks, there is often a $1/check fee, and the exchange rate is better for $100 checks. It helps to bring smaller bills as change is not always available.
Telephone Calls
When calling Brazil from abroad, you must dial the country code of 55.
Tri-band cell phones will work in most areas. You may also want to consider renting one or getting a global cell phone. If you own an unlocked tri-band phone you can purchase a SIM card and obtain a local number.
Numbers for emergencies:
- Police: dial 190
- Fire: dial 193
- Ambulance: 192
Electricity
Brazil uses 127V, 60Hz with some cities using 220V, 60Hz (North American or European plug).