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Sun, samba, and spectacular adventures

Your Heathrow gateway to Brazil

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Heathrow
Airlines and routes, Blog,
Ready for a trip filled with sunshine, samba, and unforgettable memories? Fly direct from Heathrow to Rio or Sao Paulo with British Airways or LATAM and immerse yourself in the magic of Rio Carnival, running from 28 February to 8 March 2025. With Carnival fast approaching, now’s a great time to book your trip.

Why visit Brazil during Carnival? 

Rio Carnival is more than just a festival—it’s an annual celebration of Brazilian culture that’s been dazzling the world for over 100 years. Dating back to the early 20th century, it’s Brazil’s heartbeat—an explosion of colour, music, and dance that fills the streets. From the vibrant parades in the Sambadrome to the spontaneous joy of blocos (street parties), the city buzzes with energy and celebration.

After the excitement, take a moment to discover more of Brazil. Lounge on its famous beaches, explore incredible natural landscapes, and embrace a culture bursting with life and hospitality.

How to get there ✈️

Flying from Heathrow to Brazil has never been easier, with daily connections to Rio and Sao Paulo:

To Rio de Janeiro: Fly direct with British Airways in just over 11 hours.

To Sao Paulo: Take your pick between British Airways and LATAM Airlines, with a flight time of just under 12 hours.

What’s the weather like? ☀️

February and March are summer in Brazil, so expect warm, sunny days:

Rio de Janeiro: Highs of 28–32°C, ideal for beach-hopping or dancing the night away.

Sao Paulo: Slightly cooler at 25–28°C, perfect for urban adventures.

Dive into Brazilian culture 🇧🇷

Brazil’s culture is as vibrant as its landscapes, shaped by its rich Afro-Brazilian, Indigenous, and European heritage. Here’s a glimpse of what Rio has to offer.

Samba and bossa nova: You’ll hear these iconic sounds everywhere—from the parades to laid-back beach bars.

Food and drink: Feast on hearty feijoada, snack on pão de queijo, and sip a refreshing caipirinha (or two).

Art and architecture: Discover colonial gems in Rio’s Santa Teresa or Sao Paulo’s world-class street art and museums.

Carnival must-do’s

If you’re heading to Rio Carnival, here’s what not to miss:

A Sambadrome parade
The Sambadrome parades: Watch samba schools perform impressive routines with incredible costumes that bring the celebration to life.
Street party (blocos)
Street parties (blocos): Soak up the spontaneous joy of these neighbourhood celebrations.
Ipanema beach
Iconic beaches: Take a breather at Ipanema or Copacabana—two of the most famous beaches in the world.

Looking for a quieter side of Rio?

Explore some top spots and hidden gems that show a different side of Rio:

Christ the Redeemer: Perched atop Mount Corcovado
Christ the Redeemer: Perched atop Mount Corcovado, this iconic statue offers breathtaking views of Rio and beyond.
Sugarloaf Mountain
Sugarloaf Mountain: Ride the cable car to the summit for stunning panoramic views of the city and bay.
Botanical gardens
Botanical gardens: A tranquil retreat in the heart of Rio, filled with tropical plants, majestic palms, and colourful blooms.

Sao Paulo: Brazil’s cultural capital

If you’re more of a city explorer, Sao Paulo has you covered:

Pinacoteca
Art and museums: Check out MASP and the Pinacoteca for some of the best art collections in the country.
Mercado Municipal
Food scene: From Michelin-starred restaurants to bustling markets like the Mercado Municipal, foodies will be spoilt for choice.
Street art in Sao Paulo
Neighbourhood vibes: Explore Vila Madalena for street art and cool cafes, or unwind in Ibirapuera Park.

Ready to book?

If you’re chasing the exhilaration of Carnival, the enticement of Brazil’s beaches, or the allure of its vibrant culture, your journey starts here. With direct flights from Heathrow, it’s time to plan your next great adventure.