It is so HOT in the summers. But with the humidity it is cold in the winter. It rains a good amount.
You need a hat with a wide brim or you will get burned. You will also need sunscreen.
You are ALWAYS walking often on dirt and cobblestone, so make sure you have several pairs of good shoes. You can walk 10-12 miles a day so shoes can get trashed pretty quickly.
Elders: a nicer hiking boot or shoe holds up better than dress shoes for every day. You can find shoes to purchase there but only in the bigger cities.
Sisters: any kind of heel on shoes is hard on your feet. In the summer, Sisters wear Chacos or Tevas. You will want a couple pair. You will also want a warmer shoe for winter.
Bring a warm coat for winter and warmer clothing for layering. Winter is June through August.
With all the walking, backpacks are easier on your backs.
There are a lot of bugs, so bug repellent is important along with anti itch cream.
Locals really love US currency, so bring some in small denominations to give as gifts.
Have a suggestion or correction for the Brazil Santa Maria Mission? Submit it here.
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.