Dreaming of a journey along sun-drenched coastlines, exploring dense rainforests and searching for undiscovered jewels? Well, then look no further than Brazil, a mesmerising country that beckons travellers with its diverse landscapes and vibrant culture. When it comes to navigating this vast wonderland, taking a road trip in a rental car is an unbeatable choice. This article will be a true travel guide for you, revealing the essentials you need to know for an unforgettable car trip in Brazil.

International Driving Licence in Brazil

First of all, let's cover the need for an International Driving Permit (IDP) to legally drive and rent a car in Brazil. The driving licence issued in your country may not be enough, so having an international driving licence is crucial. This is a special licence that entitles you to drive in more than 180 countries. The International Drivers Association (IDA) offers a simple procedure to obtain an international driving licence in the shortest possible time.

Rent a car in Brazil

Renting a car in Brazil is no trouble if all the necessary requirements are met. The minimum age to rent a car is usually 21, although some companies may require drivers to be at least 25 years old for certain categories of vehicles. You will need a valid national driver's licence as long as an International driving licence. For the deposit, it is also required to have an embossed credit card. We recommend booking your car in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to guarantee availability and get the best deals.

Brazil traffic regulations

Since the journey is planned to be driven by car, it is highly recommended to be aware of the traffic rules. To save you time, here is a brief summary of some less common traffic rules:

Never turn right on a red light: Unlike many countries, it is illegal to turn right on a red light in Brazil.

Seatbelt Rule: All passengers in a vehicle must always wear seatbelts. Failure to do so may result in a fine.

Child safety seats: Children under 10 years of age must be in rear seat in age and height-appropriate child safety restraints.

Speed limits in urban areas: The maximum speed limit in urban areas is 60 km/h unless otherwise stated.

Parking: Yellow kerbs: Parking along yellow coloured kerbs is strictly prohibited and may result in evacuation or a fine.

Navigating Brazil

Now that you have learnt enough about the basics, it's time to hit the road. Think beyond the typical tourist routes and discover the hidden gems of Brazil:

Transpantaneira Highway: Drive along the rustic Transpantaneira Highway, famous for spotting wildlife among the wetlands of the Pantanal.

Estrada Real: Immerse yourself in history on the Estrada Real, a historic route that once transported gold and diamonds. It passes through colonial towns and stunning scenery.

Chapada dos Veadeiros: Drive to Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park to see amazing rock formations, waterfalls and starry skies.

Enjoy the local cuisine

No trip is quite complete without sampling the local specialities. In Brazil, you can treat your taste buds with fijoada (black bean stew), acarajé (deep-fried snack) and pão de queijo (cheese bread). Seize the opportunity to experience the local cuisine to enhance your journey and make it even more memorable.

In conclusion, a road trip in Brazil is a fascinating way to discover the countless wonders of the country. With an international driving licence in hand, you can navigate the roads with ease, enjoying breathtaking scenery and immersing yourself in the rich cultural tapestry. From little-known routes to tantalising cuisine, your Brazilian road trip promises to be an unforgettable experience. So pack up, hit the road, and let the splendour of Brazil unfold in front of you.