Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2022]
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Traveling to Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil? If you're planning to go to Recife, we have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Recife
- Important essentials for Recife
- Activities for Recife
- Recife in January: weather and what to pack
- Recife in February: weather and what to pack
- Recife in March: weather and what to pack
- Recife in April: weather and what to pack
- Recife in May: weather and what to pack
- Recife in June: weather and what to pack
- Recife in July: weather and what to pack
- Recife in August: weather and what to pack
- Recife in September: weather and what to pack
- Recife in October: weather and what to pack
- Recife in November: weather and what to pack
- Recife in December: weather and what to pack

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.
When to go to Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil
Based on the climate and weather in Recife, the best time to go is December. See below for details.
Important essentials for Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Recife, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
COVID-19 ESSENTIALS FOR 2022
-
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
-
A vaccine card protector
Vaccine cards frequently wear away. An unreadable card can cause severe consequences. This vaccine card protector helps stop that.
-
Kids' KN95 masks
N95 masks are not available for kids. These are a good alternative (and can also be used by adults if N95 masks are not available).
Travel insurance
If you or a companion get COVID-19, your amazing trip can be ruined. Good travel insurance can help. See plans
-
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly product.
-
N95 masks to use in crowded airports
These N95 masks provide the best level of protection available.
General health necessities
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
-
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good value.
-
Emergency motion sickness relief
Don't forget these
-
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and N. This one should be sufficient for most countries, but you should check with your hotel.
-
Airplane or car necessities
-
For families with young children
-
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.
-
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
What to wear/what to pack for Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil by month
Already know when you're traveling?
January
If you are traveling to Recife in January, you will notice that it can be very hot. Expect it to rain regularly. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (low 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Sunglasses
-
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
-
Skirts
-
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can cool you down quickly and guard against the sun:
-
Bug repellent
-
Insulated water bottle
Our fave also removes harmful contaminants:
-
Waterproof sandals
-
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and cool you.
-
Loose-fit shorts
-
If you're going to the beach
-
A rain coat to layer with a coat
-
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
Rain pants are a lifesaver in heavy rain.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great choice.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags remain dry. We suggest:
Synagogues sometimes have dress requirements. At Kahal Zur Israel Synagogue:
-
A kippah for men
These may be available at the synagogue, or get this.
-
Appropriate pants
-
Long sleeve shirts
-
Dresses that cover your knees
for example.
If you go to Parque das Escultura, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Binoculars
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
February
If you vacation in Recife during February, you may find that it is really 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 a bit less than half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Loose-fit shorts
-
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can cool you down quickly and guard against the sun:
-
Sunglasses
-
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite also cleans contaminants:
-
Waterproof sandals
-
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and help you stay cool.
-
Bug repellent
-
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
-
Skirts
-
If you're going to the beach
-
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
Rain pants will be essential in a rainstorm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great choice.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things don't get wet. We suggest:
Synagogues sometimes have dress requirements. At Kahal Zur Israel Synagogue:
-
A kippah for men
These may be available at the synagogue, or get this.
-
Appropriate pants
-
Long sleeve shirts
-
Dresses that cover your knees
for example.
If you go to Parque das Escultura, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Binoculars
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
March
In March, Recife can be sweltering. Temperatures routinely are in the 80s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 70s F (low 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Recife, with several of the days of the month having rain. In March, humidity reaches as high as 70%.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Sunglasses
-
Waterproof sandals
-
Skirts
-
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can make you comfortable and protect you from UV rays:
-
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and help you stay cool.
-
Bug repellent
-
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice also filters dangerous contaminants:
-
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
-
Loose-fit shorts
-
If you're going to the beach
-
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These can be vital in heavy rain.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect one to buy.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags remain dry. We recommend:
Synagogues sometimes have dress requirements. At Kahal Zur Israel Synagogue:
-
A kippah for men
These may be available at the synagogue, or get this.
-
Appropriate pants
-
Long sleeve shirts
-
Dresses that cover your knees
for example.
If you go to Parque das Escultura, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Binoculars
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
April
If you go to Recife in April, you will notice that it can be sweltering. 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:
-
Insulated water bottle
Our choice also cleans dangerous contaminants:
-
Waterproof sandals
-
Bug repellent
-
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and keep you cool.
-
Sunglasses
-
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
-
Loose-fit shorts
-
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can cool you down quickly and protect you from the sun:
-
Skirts
-
If you're going to the beach
-
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
Rain pants are essential in heavy rain.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings remain dry. We like:
Synagogues sometimes have dress requirements. At Kahal Zur Israel Synagogue:
-
A kippah for men
These may be available at the synagogue, or get this.
-
Appropriate pants
-
Long sleeve shirts
-
Dresses that cover your knees
for example.
If you go to Parque das Escultura, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Binoculars
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
May
If you go to Recife in May, you will notice that it is extremely warm. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (high 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Skirts
-
Sunglasses
-
Bug repellent
-
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can keep you comfortable and guard against the sun:
-
Insulated water bottle
Our best choice also filters harmful contaminants:
-
Loose-fit shorts
-
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
-
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and help you stay cool.
-
Waterproof sandals
-
If you're going to the beach
-
A rain jacket to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
Rain pants are essential in heavy rain.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great choice.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things don't get wet. We suggest:
Synagogues sometimes have dress requirements. At Kahal Zur Israel Synagogue:
-
A kippah for men
These may be available at the synagogue, or get this.
-
Appropriate pants
-
Long sleeve shirts
-
Dresses that cover your knees
for example.
If you go to Parque das Escultura, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Binoculars
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
June
If you visit Recife during June, you may find that it is 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 (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain most days.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and keep you cool.
-
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
-
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can cool you down quickly and protect you from the sun:
-
Insulated water bottle
Our pick also filters harmful contaminants:
-
Sunglasses
-
Loose-fit shorts
-
Waterproof sandals
-
Bug repellent
-
Skirts
-
If you're going to the beach
-
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These are vital in heavy rain.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags stay dry. We recommend:
Synagogues sometimes have dress requirements. At Kahal Zur Israel Synagogue:
-
A kippah for men
These may be available at the synagogue, or get this.
-
Appropriate pants
-
Long sleeve shirts
-
Dresses that cover your knees
for example.
If you go to Parque das Escultura, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Binoculars
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
July
In July, Recife is extremely warm. Temperatures routinely are in the low 80s F (high 20s C) and a bit less than half of the time jump into the 80s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 60s F (low 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Recife, with more than half of the days of the month having rain. In July, humidity reaches as high as 80%.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Short pants or heavy shorts
-
Light skirts
-
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
-
Extra socks
-
Sandals
-
Breathable footwear or sandals
-
Long and short sleeve shirts
-
Bug repellent
-
Sunscreen lotion
-
Beach necessities
If you're going to the beach:
-
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
Rain pants will be a lifesaver in a storm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect one to buy.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things remain dry. We recommend:
Synagogues sometimes have dress requirements. At Kahal Zur Israel Synagogue:
-
A kippah for men
These may be available at the synagogue, or get this.
-
Appropriate pants
-
Long sleeve shirts
-
Dresses that cover your knees
for example.
If you go to Parque das Escultura, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Binoculars
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
August
August here is extremely warm. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Sandals
-
Breathable footwear or sandals
-
Extra socks
-
Bug repellent
-
Short pants or heavy shorts
-
Sunscreen lotion
-
Light skirts
-
Long and short sleeve shirts
-
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
-
Beach necessities
If you're going to the beach:
-
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
-
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These pants are essential in a rainstorm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things stay dry. We recommend:
Synagogues sometimes have dress requirements. At Kahal Zur Israel Synagogue:
-
A kippah for men
These may be available at the synagogue, or get this.
-
Appropriate pants
-
Long sleeve shirts
-
Dresses that cover your knees
for example.
If you go to Parque das Escultura, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Binoculars
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
September
In September, Recife is hot. Temperatures routinely are in the low 80s F (high 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 60s F (low 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Recife, with several of the days of the month having rain. In September, humidity reaches as high as 70%.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite also filters harmful contaminants:
-
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can make you comfortable and protect you from the sun:
-
Bug repellent
-
Loose-fit shorts
-
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
-
Waterproof sandals
-
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and cool you.
-
Skirts
-
Sunglasses
-
If you're going to the beach
-
A rain jacket to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
-
Rain pants
Rain pants are a lifesaver in heavy rain.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases don't get wet. We like:
Synagogues sometimes have dress requirements. At Kahal Zur Israel Synagogue:
-
A kippah for men
These may be available at the synagogue, or get this.
-
Appropriate pants
-
Long sleeve shirts
-
Dresses that cover your knees
for example.
If you go to Parque das Escultura, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Binoculars
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
October
If you go to Recife in October, you will notice that it is pretty consistently hot. Expect it to rain regularly. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (high 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Skirts
-
Insulated water bottle
Our fave also removes contaminants:
-
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and keep you cool.
-
Loose-fit shorts
-
Bug repellent
-
Waterproof sandals
-
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
-
Sunglasses
-
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can keep you comfortable and guard against skin damage:
-
If you're going to the beach
-
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
Rain pants can be vital in a rainstorm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases don't get wet. We recommend:
Synagogues sometimes have dress requirements. At Kahal Zur Israel Synagogue:
-
A kippah for men
These may be available at the synagogue, or get this.
-
Appropriate pants
-
Long sleeve shirts
-
Dresses that cover your knees
for example.
If you go to Parque das Escultura, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Binoculars
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
November
If you are traveling to Recife in November, you will notice that it is really hot. Expect it to rain regularly. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (low 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and keep you cool.
-
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite also filters dangerous contaminants:
-
Sunglasses
-
Skirts
-
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
-
Bug repellent
-
Loose-fit shorts
-
Waterproof sandals
-
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can keep you comfortable and guard against the sun:
-
If you're going to the beach
-
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These pants will be a lifesaver in a storm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings stay dry. We like:
Synagogues sometimes have dress requirements. At Kahal Zur Israel Synagogue:
-
A kippah for men
These may be available at the synagogue, or get this.
-
Appropriate pants
-
Long sleeve shirts
-
Dresses that cover your knees
for example.
If you go to Parque das Escultura, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Binoculars
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
December
December for Recife can be very hot. Temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains sometimes.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can make you comfortable and protect you from skin damage:
-
Loose-fit shorts
-
Insulated water bottle
Our best choice also cleans contaminants:
-
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and cool you.
-
Waterproof sandals
-
Sunglasses
-
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
-
Bug repellent
-
Skirts
-
If you're going to the beach
-
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These can be vital in heavy rain.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings don't get wet. We suggest:
Synagogues sometimes have dress requirements. At Kahal Zur Israel Synagogue:
-
A kippah for men
These may be available at the synagogue, or get this.
-
Appropriate pants
-
Long sleeve shirts
-
Dresses that cover your knees
for example.
If you go to Parque das Escultura, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Binoculars
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Activities for Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil
Here are some activity recommendations and activity-specific packing tips for Recife.
Check out our guides for these other locations: Curacautín, Chile, Cornucopia, Wisconsin, United States of America, Chorefto, Greece, Mondaikadu, India, Jinghong, China, Lindsborg, Kansas, United States of America, Masindi, Uganda, Shiga, Japan, Taza, Morocco, Winter Garden, Florida, United States of America, and Husseren-les-Châteaux, France.