Internet, SIM & Power Outlets
SIM Card & Mobile Data
A local SIM card is cheap and the best option for mobile internet:
- Providers: TIM (best value for money, good coverage), Claro (largest network), Vivo (best coverage in rural areas)
- Price: Prepaid SIM from 15 BRL (2.50€). Data packages: 15–20 GB for 40–60 BRL (7–10€) per month.
- Purchase: At the airport (TIM and Claro have stands), in any mobile store or Drogaria. CPF number required! (Brazilian tax number — at the airport stand they help you get a temporary one, or you can use a Brazilian friend's).
- Network coverage: 4G/5G in all cities and tourist areas. In the Amazon, Pantanal, and remote beaches: patchy to non-existent.
eSIM
Airalo, Holafly, or Ubigi offer Brazil eSIMs from 10€ for 5 GB. Purchase online in advance, activate upon arrival — no SIM card swap needed and no CPF issue.
WiFi
Free WiFi in most hotels, hostels, cafes, and restaurants. Speed: Good in São Paulo and Rio, often slow in rural areas.
Power Outlets
Brazil uses plug type N (three round pins). This plug is unique to Brazil and does not fit with European plugs! An adapter is absolutely necessary. Universal adapters are recommended.
Voltage: Note, the voltage varies by region! São Paulo, Rio, South: 127V. Salvador, Northeast, Brasília: 220V. Some hotels have both voltages — check signs on the outlets! Laptops and phone chargers (100–240V) work everywhere, but hairdryers and straighteners can burn out.
💡 Tipp
The eSIM solution (Airalo or Holafly) is the most stress-free option for Brazil: No CPF issue, no waiting in line at the airport counter, immediately active upon arrival. 10–15€ for 10 GB is enough for 2–3 weeks of normal surfing.