Climate: hot, humid summers (October-March) and short winters (June-August), but the humidity makes it feel colder. It is so hot most of the year, though. And it rains A TON.
For the cold: a coat with a zip-out liner is needed. Pack a few sweaters, some wool socks, a blanket, and warm pajamas or a sweatshirt for cold nights in the winter time. Layering is nice because it can get chilly in winter in the mornings and night, while being comfortable during the day. Cardigans are wonderful for that.
The rest of your clothing should be light, thin, breathable fabrics that are non-wrinkle and quick-drying. Apartments have washers but not dryers, so fabrics that dry quickly are best.
For sisters, flowy dresses are preferred in the heat.
Bring extra garments or purchase extra garments in Brazil. You shower a lot (morning and night) and will need more than they recommend.
It is quite rainy as well, so pack a good, long raincoat. You can buy umbrellas there, but they are often cheap and break easily, so bring two sturdy, quality umbrellas.
Pack a couple towels that are thin and dry quickly, like the Turkish cotton towels or microfiber. You will shower morning and night.
SHOES ARE SUPER IMPORTANT IN THIS MISSION!
Elders: Wear VERY comfy, waterproof shoes. Consider investing in durable, thick, good quality socks as well. And bring A LOT of them, at least 10-14 pair. There is a lot of walking (you are on your feet all day, every day) and a lot of roads are dirt in remote areas. Florsheim is a brand that has been recommended as well as ECCO. Bring 2-4 pair.
Sisters are allowed Tevas or Chacos and should bring multiple pairs. Also they should bring a pair of sturdy, closed toed shoes like Docs for the winter.
Missionaries should bring 2 pair of sandals for showering and some slides for walking around the apartment and/or baptisms
In the city they also use Uber, so it is a good idea to set up an Uber account before going to the mission. Missionaries walk in the outer areas.
Some quick drying comfortable rain boots are very nice to have.
You will need a waterproof side bag for everyday. But, also bring a backpack for zone conference, transfers, and exchanges.
You will also need sheets and a pillowcase. A fabric that can help you stay cool at night is very nice. Also bring a blanket.
Bring a rechargeable fan for nights as well.
Each apartment does have a washing machine, but no dryers. You will hang your clothes to dry.
No dishwashers are in the apartment either.
Helpful items to have:
Measuring cups and spoons. None of the kitchens seems to have them.
Recipes that are simple.
Headphones for Pday to talk to family.
A keyboard
Light PJs for the summer and a couple sweatshirts for the winter.
A couple of exercise outfits and a pair of tennis shoes.
Hat
Sunglasses
Games are loved on Pdays and also to play with members on family nights. Popular games not found in Brazil are: exploding kittens, skyjo, UNO, and Cover Your Assets.
Spikeball is very popular, so if you can fit it in your suitcase or have it shipped, do so.
They do not use Facebook or Messenger, but use WhatsApp.
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Most parents send their Elders with at least 1 suit (most countries in South America only wear suits to church and meetings) and around 8–10 golf pants. Families are sending more shirts because of heat and humidity — 12–14 is the average. Note for Sisters serving in Brazil: feminine hygiene products are expensive there and tampons are often considered taboo. Be prepared to send a good supply with your Sister Missionary.
This is a very comfortable, durable shoe that missionaries serving all over have loved!
7 inch Rechargeable Fan. These have been recommended for missionaries serving in Mexico, Central and South America, the Caribbean and Africa. They help keep you cooler at night, but also help keep bugs like mosquitos off at night too.
The power goes out frequently, so it is nice to have a solar power fan.
Serve shirts have a ventilation panel in the side of the shirt making them noticeably more breathable. Missionaries serving in hot or humid places absolutely RAVE about this feature. The most popular shirt for hot-climate missions, for sure.