Do I need a visa to visit Rondônia?

Visa requirements depend on your nationality and are for entry into Brazil. Check with the Brazilian consulate. Rondônia has no separate visa.

Is it safe to drink the tap water?

No. Drink only bottled, filtered, or boiled water throughout the state to avoid waterborne illnesses.

What is the main airport?

Governador Jorge Teixeira de Oliveira International Airport (PVH) in Porto Velho is the main gateway, with flights to other Brazilian cities.

Can I visit indigenous communities?

Some communities welcome visitors through organized, respectful tours. It is crucial to go with a reputable local guide who has established relationships and to follow all community rules.

What is a must-try local dish?

Try 'Pirarucu de Casaca' (a dish made with the giant pirarucu fish, cassava, and bananas) or 'Tacacá' (a hot soup made with jambu leaves and shrimp).

Varies by nationality. Many countries get 90-day visa-free stays. Check with Brazilian consulate.

What currency is used?

Brazilian Real (BRL). Credit cards accepted in cities; cash needed in rural areas.

Is English widely spoken?

No, Portuguese is the official language. Learn basic phrases or use translation apps.

What vaccinations are recommended?

Yellow fever, typhoid, hepatitis A & B, and routine vaccines. Malaria prophylaxis advised for rural areas.

Is tap water safe to drink?

No, drink bottled or filtered water.

What is the best way to get around?

Buses for intercity, taxis/Uber in cities, and riverboats for remote areas.

Yes in cities, but limited in small towns. Carry enough cash.

Lightweight clothing, rain jacket, insect repellent, sunscreen, sturdy shoes, and a hat.

Is it safe to travel alone?

Generally yes, but take standard precautions, especially at night.

Can I visit indigenous villages?

Some are open to tourists with a guide; respect their customs and obtain permission.

What is the food like?

Hearty Amazonian cuisine with fish, rice, beans, and tropical fruits. Try tacacá and pato no tucupi.

What is the time zone?

America/Porto_Velho (GMT-4), no daylight saving.

Rondônia

StateBrazil, South America

Rondônia is a STATE in Brazil, South America.

Rondônia, a vibrant frontier state in Brazil's Amazon region, offers adventurous travelers a unique blend of raw natural beauty, indigenous cultures, and fascinating history. The state's crown jewel is the Madeira River, one of the Amazon's largest tributaries, where visitors can experience riverboat journeys, witness the impressive Santo Antônio Hydroelectric Dam, and explore the lush rainforests of the Guajará-Mirim State Park near the Bolivian border. Porto Velho, the capital, serves as a gateway with its historic Madeira-Mamoré Railway, a testament to the rubber boom era. Rondônia is a paradise for ecotourism, featuring protected areas like the Serra dos Três Irmãos and opportunities to encounter diverse wildlife. The state's cultural tapestry is woven from indigenous communities, rubber tapper heritage, and migrant settlers, creating a distinctive cuisine rich in fish, cassava, and tropical fruits. For those seeking an authentic Amazonian experience beyond the typical tourist trails, Rondônia provides an unforgettable adventure into the heart of Brazil's western frontier.

Best time to visit Rondônia

May to September (dry season) is the best time to visit. Rainfall is lower, rivers are more navigable, and roads are in better condition, making it ideal for jungle excursions, river trips, and visiting national parks. The weather is hot but less humid. Avoid the peak rainy season from December to April when flooding can disrupt travel.

October

Now

Typical for October

Weather: Hot 28-34°C, rain returns

Travel notes

Crowds: Low
Prices: Low

Start of rainy season, fewer tourists

Know before you go

Getting there

PVH

Governador Jorge Teixeira de Oliveira International Airport

International

10 km away

JPR

Ji-Paraná Airport

Domestic

330 km away

CQS

Costa Marques Airport

Domestic

500 km away

Getting around

"Intercity travel relies heavily on buses. For remote areas, small planes or boats are necessary. In Porto Velho, use registered taxis or ride-hailing apps like Uber and 99. Car rentals are available in the capital but are less useful for deep jungle travel. Motorcycle taxis ('mototáxis') are common for short trips in towns. For exploring rivers and protected areas, hiring a local guide with a boat is essential."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

15 Mbps

Mobile data

Good

WiFi

Available in cities and hotels; limited in remote areas

Local SIM

Local SIM available at airport from $5

Calling code

+55

Stay safe

Overall

7/10

Petty crime exists but violent crime is low. Rural areas are safer.

Night safety

6/10

Petty crime exists but violent crime is low. Rural areas are safer.

Transport

8/10

Scam risk

5/10

"Exercise increased caution, especially in urban areas like Porto Velho after dark. Petty theft and muggings can occur. Avoid isolated areas, poorly lit streets, and displaying valuables. Use registered taxis or ride-hailing apps. Road travel in rural areas can be hazardous due to poor road conditions, especially in the rainy season. Be cautious near the Bolivian border region due to occasional illegal activities. Always check local advice before visiting remote natural areas. Keep copies of your passport and visa."

Police

190

Ambulance

192

Fire

193

Tourist Police

Entry and health

Health information

"Medical facilities are concentrated in Porto Velho, with Hospital de Base and Hospital 9 de Julho being major centers. Smaller towns have limited services. Malaria, dengue, Zika, and yellow fever are present in rural/forested areas. The CDC recommends yellow fever vaccination for all travelers aged 9 months and older, and malaria prophylaxis is advised for certain areas. Drink only bottled or purified water. Ensure comprehensive travel health insurance that includes medical evacuation. Bring a well-stocked travel medical kit and any personal prescription medications."

Culture

Local customs

"Dress is generally casual but modest, especially in smaller communities. When visiting indigenous areas, always seek permission from community leaders and follow their guidance. Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated in restaurants (10% is common, often included as a 'serviço' charge on the bill). Greetings are important; a handshake is standard. Be respectful when discussing the environment and development, as these are sensitive topics. The pace of life is slower than in southern Brazil."

PortugueseIndigenous languages (e.g., Tupi-Guarani families)

Costs and practicals

Currency

Brazilian Real (BRL) · R$

Cost level

Budget

Meals

$5 | a cheap local meal costs around $5

Hotels

$30-60 | budget hotels range $30-60/night

Local transport

$0.50 | local bus ride ~$0.50

Cost notes

Rondônia is affordable compared to southern Brazil. Mid-range options available in Porto Velho.

Timezone

America/Porto_Velho -04:00 (GMT)

More facts

Population

1,800,000

Area

237,576.167 km²

Government

State of the Federative Republic of Brazil

ISO code

BR-24

Type

State

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: Рондония, Rondonio, ロンドニア, Рондони, რონდონია, Rondonija, روندونيا, רונדוניה, Rondônia, Pondoniya, RO, रोन्डोनिया, 朗多尼亚州, Рондонија, Rondonia, रोन्द्योनिया, 혼도니아, Ռոնդոնիա, Рандонія, รอนโดเนีย, Рондонія, BR-RO, روندونیا, Bom Futuro, Vale do Anari, Vista Alegre

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