Understanding Brazilian Currency

Brazil uses the Brazilian Real (BRL), represented by the symbol R$. The currency comes in notes of R$2, R$5, R$10, R$20, R$50, R$100, and R$200. Coins are issued in denominations of 5, 10, 25, and 50 centavos, as well as R$1. The R$200 note, introduced in 2020, features the maned wolf and is still unfamiliar to some Brazilians, so smaller denominations are easier to use.

Brazil has a complex relationship with cash versus cards. While major cities like São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro are increasingly card-friendly, much of Brazil still operates on cash, especially in smaller towns, beaches, and local neighbourhoods. Understanding how to manage both is essential for a smooth trip.

Best Ways to Get Brazilian Reais

Here are your main options for getting BRL, ranked by overall value:

Card Acceptance in Brazil

Card acceptance varies dramatically across Brazil. In major cities and tourist areas, you'll find cards widely accepted:

Cards work well at: Shopping centres (shoppings), supermarkets (Pão de Açúcar, Extra, Carrefour), chain restaurants, hotels, airlines, petrol stations, Uber and 99 (ride apps), and most tourist attractions.

You'll need cash for: Beach vendors (caipirinhas, coconut water), local "boteco" bars, market stalls, favela tours, street food, many taxis (especially outside major cities), small restaurants, and tips.

Brazil uses chip and PIN for card transactions. Contactless is becoming more common in São Paulo and Rio but isn't universal. Some machines may ask if you want the charge in GBP (DCC) - always choose to pay in Reais to avoid poor exchange rates.

ATM Guide for Brazil

Finding an ATM that accepts foreign cards requires some knowledge of the Brazilian banking landscape. Here's what works:

Best options: Banco do Brasil (green/yellow signs) and Bradesco (red signs) ATMs are most reliable for international cards. Santander also works well. Inside shopping centres, look for Banco24Horas machines (purple branding) - these accept most foreign cards.

Avoid: Caixa Econômica Federal ATMs frequently reject foreign cards. Itaú can be hit-or-miss. Street ATMs in general are riskier than those inside banks or shopping centres.

Important ATM tip: When the machine asks for account type, always select "Credit" (Crédito) even if you're using a debit card. Selecting "Savings" (Poupança) or "Current" (Corrente) often results in declined transactions with foreign cards.

ATM withdrawal limits are typically R$1,000-1,500 per transaction. Some machines allow multiple withdrawals. Be aware that Brazilian ATMs inside banks are often only accessible during banking hours (10am-4pm weekdays).

Exchange Bureaux (Casas de Câmbio)

If you prefer cash, Brazilian exchange bureaux offer reasonable rates, especially for USD and EUR:

Best rates: Downtown São Paulo (especially Rua Augusta and around Paulista), downtown Rio (Centro district), and large shopping centres. Compare at least 2-3 places as rates vary.

Airport exchange: Confidence Câmbio and Get Money have counters at major airports. Rates are worse than city centres but reasonable for initial cash needs. Avoid hotels for exchange - they typically offer the worst rates.

Documentation: To exchange money, you'll need your passport (not just a copy). Larger transactions may require additional ID. Keep exchange receipts - you might need them if you have leftover Reais to convert back.

Money Safety in Brazil

Brazil requires more vigilance about money safety than many destinations. Some practical tips:

Don't carry large amounts of cash. Keep only what you need for the day (R$100-200 typically suffices). Use hotel safes for excess cash and backup cards. Consider wearing a money belt in crowded areas.

When using ATMs, go during daytime and prefer machines inside banks or shopping centres. Cover the keypad, be aware of your surroundings, and put money away immediately. Avoid counting cash in public.

For beach days, bring minimal cash in a waterproof pouch. Never leave valuables unattended. Many beaches have lock boxes or trusted vendors who watch belongings for a small fee.

Consider having a "decoy wallet" with small notes and expired cards if you're concerned about safety. The vast majority of tourists visit without incident, but basic precautions make a significant difference.