Búzios travel tips: what to know before you go
The practical things our international guests ask us about most, from paying for things to getting around and staying safe. If it's your first trip to Brazil, start here.
Money and payments
- The currency is the Brazilian real (BRL, R$).
- Credit and debit cards are accepted almost everywhere, including most beach kiosks.
- Brazilians pay a lot with Pix, an instant bank transfer by QR code. You usually can't use it without a Brazilian bank account, so just ask to pay by card.
- Keep some cash in reais for tolls, tips and small purchases.
Phone and internet
Get a local SIM or an eSIM before you leave the airport. WhatsApp is how Brazilians communicate: restaurants, drivers, tour operators and your hosts all use it. Both our houses have Wi-Fi.
Getting around
- A car makes it easy to visit different beaches. Uber and local taxis also work in Búzios.
- Buggy and quad bike rentals are popular for a day of beach-hopping.
- From Ferradura to Rua das Pedras is about 8 minutes by car.
- For the trip from Rio's airport, see our Rio to Búzios guide.
Language
Portuguese is the language of Brazil, not Spanish, though many people understand some Spanish. English is spoken in many restaurants and tourist businesses, less so elsewhere. A translation app helps. Max and Irani speak English and are on WhatsApp if you get stuck.
Safety
Búzios is generally considered one of the calmer places to visit on the Rio coast. Use the same common sense as in any tourist town: don't leave phones and bags unattended on the beach, use ATMs inside shops or banks, and keep valuables out of sight in the car. Both our houses are in gated communities.
Sun and sea
- The sun is strong even on cloudy days. Use high-factor sunscreen and a hat.
- Water shoes help on rocky beaches and around rock pools.
- Swim at calm beaches like Ferradura; at open-sea beaches like Brava, watch the waves and currents.
Power and plugs
Brazil uses Type N sockets (three round pins), and many older sockets also take two-pin plugs. Voltage in Búzios is 220 V in many places, but check your devices; most phone and laptop chargers work on both 110 V and 220 V. Bring an adapter.
Tipping
Restaurants usually add a 10% service charge to the bill. Extra tipping isn't expected but is appreciated for great service.
What to pack
- Swimwear, sunscreen, hat and sunglasses
- Water shoes and a snorkel mask
- A light jacket for evenings from May to September
- Plug adapter
More planning help: the best beaches in Búzios and is Búzios worth visiting?
Where to stay: our two houses are on Ferradura Beach.
Casa Bela 21: 3 suites, private pool and ocean view, 700 m from the beach.
Casa Ferradura Beach: 4 suites, with direct beach access.