Currency exchange locations and tips

In São Paulo, physical currency exchange offices (casas de câmbio) are most easily and safely located inside large shopping malls (shopping centers). They offer a secure environment for exchanging cash.

Information is needed regarding the earliest time and location for currency exchange in Foz do Iguaçu to purchase bus tickets for travel to the Argentinian side of Iguazu Falls. This exchange is necessary for bus ticket purchase.

User reports an extremely unfavorable exchange rate for USD to BRL at Sao Paulo airport, receiving 355 BRL for $100 USD when the local market rate was approximately 5.3 BRL/USD. Recommends exchanging currency elsewhere.

In Brazil, cash is not widely observed by some users. Recommendations include using Revolut or Wise for their favorable conversion rates. However, certain establishments, particularly nightlife venues, may still require cash payments.

Currency exchange at Salvador Airport can be inconvenient. One exchange office offered a rate of approximately 4.2 BRL per EUR on the first floor but asked intrusive questions about employment and income. On the second floor, the same office offered a lower rate (under 4 BRL). The traveler opted to use the metro for exchange.

For a reliable cash exchange service in Rio de Janeiro, travelers recommend the exchange office located at R. Xavier da Silveira, 15. It operates inside a travel agency and is known for consistent availability and fair rates.

Exchange rates for Euros at Sao Paulo Guarulhos Airport are unfavorable (around 4.2-4.5 BRL per EUR). Better rates were observed in Salvador (6.2 BRL) and Rio de Janeiro (5.8 BRL). Hotel exchange rates might also be better than at the airport. It's advisable to exchange a minimal amount at the airport and seek better rates elsewhere in the city, avoiding currency exchange during public holidays when offices might be closed.

For currency in Brazil, exchanging Russian Rubles to Brazilian Reais (BRL) beforehand in Russia is an option, though exchange rates might not be optimal (around 18.5 RUB/BRL reported in Moscow/St. Petersburg). Newer US Dollar bills are preferred for exchange; older 'blue' dollars may fetch a lower rate. Some CIS-issued cards, including UnionPay from Rosselkhozbank, may function in Brazil. Exchange rates for USD in Brazil can fluctuate, with reports of around 5.25 BRL per USD in exchange offices (cambio).

To exchange Brazilian Reals (BRL) for US Dollars (USD) in cash in Brazil, visit local exchange offices (casas de câmbio). It's recommended to check rates at several nearby establishments for the best exchange rate, especially in larger cities like São Paulo.

In Brazil, some currency exchange points offer different rates for different types of US dollar bills, sometimes referred to as 'blue dollars' and 'white dollars'. Typically, certain series or conditions of dollar bills (often newer $100 notes in good condition, or what's colloquially referred to as 'blue dollars') might receive a more favorable exchange rate. It is advisable to check the rates for different bill types at the exchange office.

Avoid exchanging large amounts of currency at Sao Paulo airport (GRU). While the official rate is around 5.5 BRL/USD and city exchange offices offer 5.2-5.3 BRL/USD, airport exchange offices offer poor rates ranging from 3.0 to 4.5 BRL/USD. Exchange only the bare minimum for immediate expenses upon arrival.

Exchanging large sums of Russian Rubles (RUB) to Brazilian Reals (BRL) can be challenging due to unfavorable P2P exchange rates and withdrawal limits on platforms like Bybit. One suggested method involves transferring RUB from Tinkoff to VTB or Sberbank, then using QR code payments through these banks to pay bills or services in Brazil. This method is reported to work with some inconsistencies and requires monitoring exchange rates, with a recommendation to test it on smaller transactions first. Direct cash exchange of RUB for BRL, especially for significant amounts, is also difficult to arrange in Brazil.

Exchanging currency (Brazilian Reais) in São Paulo on a public holiday, such as December 31st, can be challenging as banks are closed. Look for 'casa de cambio' (exchange offices). Large hotels may also offer currency exchange services, especially during holidays. It's advisable to inquire about operating hours for exchange offices beforehand.

US dollar banknotes of older designs are generally accepted at currency exchange offices in Brazil, but travelers should expect higher commission fees compared to newer bills.

In São Paulo, official currency exchange offices (casas de câmbio) are typically closed on Sundays. Some hotels might offer currency exchange services, but usually at less favorable rates. It is advisable to exchange currency during weekdays or plan to use ATMs.