Currency
Real/Reais (R$) = 100 centavos. Notes are in denominations of R$100, 50, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1. Coins are in denominations of R$1, and 50, 25, 10, 5 and 1 centavos.

If possible, split some cash money in small amounts and keep them in different places. You will find it difficult to pay at smaller shops with notes of large denominations like 50 or 20 reals outside the cities. A general rule is never to carry more cash on your person, than you can accept to loose.

Currency exchange
All banks and cambios exchange recognised travellers cheques and foreign currency. There is an extensive network of ATMs around the country. The US Dollar is the most widely accepted foreign currency. Followed by the Euro.

Currency restrictions
The import and export of local currency is unlimited although it may be subject to prior approval by Brazil Central Bank. The import of foreign currency is unlimited, provided amounts over US$1000 are declared on arrival; the export of foreign currency is limited to US$4000 per person (amounts in excess of this need special approval from the Brazilian Central Bank).

Credit cards
Most stores, hotels and restaurants accept and prefer payment with credit cards. The most accepted are: American Express, Diners, Master Card and Visa. Make sure you know your card's PIN number before you travel.

The best conversion rates will be through using the cash advance machines (ATM) throughout the cities. Depending on your home country bank policies, limits will usually be around 200 USD equals 700 brazilian reals pr. day.

Look for ATM's at large banks like Banco do Brasil, HBSC, Bradesco or Citybank. All of these banks have ATM's at Salvador International Airport. It's on your right hand side - in the end of the upper floor - when you exit the terminal after arrival.

It is advisable to bring more than one credit card, because of the advantage of spreading the risk of loosing the card and because of the daily limit. Be also aware that you need a credit card for car rental and that a considerable amount will be reserved on your account as a deposit untill the car has been returned.

Banking hours are: Mon-Fri 1000-1600.

Travellers cheques
In general harder to change, but exchangeable at hotels, banks and tourist agencies. Tourists cannot exchange US travellers cheques for US banknotes but they may, however, benefit from a 15 per cent discount when paying hotel or restaurant bills in foreign currency or travellers cheques.

To avoid additional exchange rate charges, travellers are advised to take travellers cheques in US Dollars.

In case of emergency
Money can be wired through Western Union from one hour to the other. Beware of long lines in the Banco do Brasil, which is the biggest agent of Western Union in Brazil. You need to identify yourself through a passport or drivers licens.

To top