Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil? If you're planning to go to Recife, this article contains some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil

Based on the climate and weather in Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil, the best time to go is December. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Recife, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil by month

January

January in this region is constantly hot. Temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Brazil has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Recife. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and N. Make sure to get the necessary kind. Many adapters currently sold are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most areas.

Synagogues have dress requirements. At Kahal Zur Israel Synagogue:

If you go to Parque das Escultura, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

February

If you vacation in Recife during February, you will probably find that it can be very hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Brazil has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Recife. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and N. Take care to get the correct kind. The majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

Synagogues have dress requirements. At Kahal Zur Israel Synagogue:

If you go to Parque das Escultura, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

March

March in Recife is extremely hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Brazil has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Recife. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and N. Make sure to choose the correct type. Most adapters currently available are simply plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

Synagogues have dress requirements. At Kahal Zur Israel Synagogue:

If you go to Parque das Escultura, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

April

If you go to Recife in April, you will notice that it can be very hot. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Brazil has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Recife. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and N. Be sure to get the right kind. The vast majority of adapters available are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

Synagogues have dress requirements. At Kahal Zur Israel Synagogue:

If you go to Parque das Escultura, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

May

If you vacation in Recife during May, you might notice that it is extremely warm. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Brazil has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Recife. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and N. Take care to find the correct type. The majority of adapters currently available are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

Synagogues have dress requirements. At Kahal Zur Israel Synagogue:

If you go to Parque das Escultura, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

June

June in this region is hot. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day. It rains most days.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Brazil has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Recife. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and N. It's important that you pick the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters on sale are just plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

Synagogues have dress requirements. At Kahal Zur Israel Synagogue:

If you go to Parque das Escultura, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

July

Traveling to Recife in July, you will notice that it is hot. Expect it to rain most days. Daytime temperatures are in the low 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Brazil has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Recife. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and N. It's important that you find the right type. Many adapters available are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

Synagogues have dress requirements. At Kahal Zur Israel Synagogue:

If you go to Parque das Escultura, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

August

If you visit Recife during August, you might notice that it is pretty consistently hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 60s F (high 10s C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Brazil has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Recife. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and N. Be careful to choose the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

Synagogues have dress requirements. At Kahal Zur Israel Synagogue:

If you go to Parque das Escultura, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

September

September here is pretty consistently hot. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day. It rains a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Brazil has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Recife. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and N. Check that you pick the correct type. A lot of adapters available online are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

Synagogues have dress requirements. At Kahal Zur Israel Synagogue:

If you go to Parque das Escultura, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

October

If you vacation in Recife during October, you are likely to notice that it is hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 60s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Brazil has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Recife. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and N. Make sure to find the correct kind. Most adapters for sale now are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

Synagogues have dress requirements. At Kahal Zur Israel Synagogue:

If you go to Parque das Escultura, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

November

If you visit Recife during November, you are likely to find that it can be sweltering. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 60s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Brazil has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Recife. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and N. Check that you find the necessary type. The majority of adapters available are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

Synagogues have dress requirements. At Kahal Zur Israel Synagogue:

If you go to Parque das Escultura, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

December

If you are traveling to Recife in December, you will notice that it is constantly hot. Expect it to rain sometimes. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Brazil has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Recife. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and N. It's important that you pick the correct type. The majority of adapters available online are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

Synagogues have dress requirements. At Kahal Zur Israel Synagogue:

If you go to Parque das Escultura, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

What to do in Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil

Recife, the capital of Pernambuco, is one of the most exciting destinations in Brazil. This vibrant city is located in the Northeast region of the country and is known for its rich history, culture, and stunning beaches. With so many things to see and do, it's no wonder that it's become a popular tourist destination. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Recife:

1. Olinda

Olinda is a UNESCO World Heritage site that's located just 6 miles from Recife. This historic town is one of the most charming places in Brazil and is known for its exquisite architecture, vibrant culture, and festivals. Travelers can explore colorful houses, historic churches, and cobblestone streets while savoring local dishes and enjoying live music.

2. Marco Zero Square

Marco Zero Square is the heart of Recife and a must-visit for tourists. This lively square is situated in the historic center of the city and is where all distances in Recife are measured. The square features several impressive sculptures and has a great atmosphere, especially during the weekend when street performers and vendors are out in full force.

3. Recife Antigo

Recife Antigo is the historic district of the city and was once the center of the sugar industry in Brazil. This charming neighborhood is full of well-preserved colonial-era buildings, and the area has undergone extensive restoration and renovation in recent years. Visitors can enjoy the local museums, galleries, and restaurants as they explore this compelling part of town.

4. Boa Viagem Beach

Boa Viagem Beach is one of the most famous beaches in Recife and attracts thousands of tourists each year. The beach has crystal clear waters and stretches for six miles along the coast. While swimming is not recommended due to shark attacks, the beach offers excellent sunbathing, beach sports, and local cuisine options.

5. Museu Cais do Sertão

Museu Cais do Sertão is a museum dedicated to the culture and history of the Sertão region of Brazil, an inland region with a rich cultural heritage. This interactive museum is housed in a modern building that sits alongside the Capibaribe River. Visitors can enjoy the exhibits, films, and live performances that showcase the Sertão's music, literature, and dance.

6. São Francisco Church and Convent

São Francisco Church and Convent is one of the most significant landmarks in Recife. This baroque masterpiece is one of the finest examples of colonial architecture in Brazil and is filled with intricate carvings, elaborate frescoes, and golden altars. With stunning views of the river, this church is also an excellent location for some fabulous photographs.

Recife is a city that oozes Brazilian vibrance and culture, not least because of its architecture, cuisine, melodies, and ambitious endeavors. From the colorfully preserved Olinda town to the breathtaking beaches of Boa Viagem, tourists can discover the fascinating history and vibrant culture of this unique place. Between these highlights and other treasures along the way, visitors can be sure of a fantastic adventure in Recife.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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