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Best time to visit Rio de Janeiro: month by month
Short answer
April to June and September to November are the best balance, with highs of about 24–27°C and fewer storms than summer. December to March is hot (28–30°C on average, often above 35°C), humid and rainy, but it is the time of Carnival and the beach season.
Month by month
| Month | High | Low | Rainy days | Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 29°C | 23°C | 15 | very high |
| Feb | 29°C | 23°C | 17 | very high |
| Mar | 30°C | 23°C | 6 | high |
| Apr | 27°C | 21°C | 16 | medium |
| May | 25°C | 19°C | 9 | low |
| Jun | 24°C | 18°C | 11 | low |
| Jul | 25°C | 18°C | 6 | medium |
| Aug | 25°C | 18°C | 11 | low |
| Sep | 26°C | 19°C | 9 | medium |
| Oct | 26°C | 21°C | 17 | medium |
| Nov | 27°C | 21°C | 13 | medium |
| Dec | 28°C | 22°C | 16 | very high |
Temperatures and rainy days: Copernicus ERA5 averages, 2021–2023. Crowd levels are our estimate.
Season by season
Autumn (Mar–May)
Highs fall from 30°C in March to 25°C in May, with fewer storms. A good time for hiking and sightseeing.
Winter (Jun–Aug)
Mild and drier, with highs of 24–25°C and lows of about 18°C. Clear days for Corcovado and Sugarloaf; the sea is cooler.
Spring (Sep–Nov)
Highs of 26–27°C, with rain increasing in October and November (13–17 rainy days).
Summer (Dec–Feb)
Hot and humid: highs of 28–29°C on average, often above 35°C, with 15–17 rainy days and afternoon storms. Peak beach season, New Year and often Carnival.
Events worth planning around
- Carnival, with samba school parades at the Sambódromo and street blocos (February or March)
- Réveillon, New Year's Eve fireworks on Copacabana (31 December)
- Festa Junina, June festivals with food and dancing (June)
- Rock in Rio (some years, usually September)
When to avoid
If you dislike crowds and high prices, avoid Carnival and New Year. January and February are the hottest and most humid months.
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Common questions
What is the best time to visit Rio?
April to June and September to November, with highs of 24–27°C and fewer storms.
When is Carnival in Rio?
In February or March, depending on the date of Easter.
Is Rio warm in winter?
Yes, highs are about 24–25°C from June to August, though the sea is cooler.