What's the Weather Like in Rio de Janeiro in February?
Although often referred to informally as 'Rio', Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, is also commonly known by another nickname; Cidade Maravilhosa. Translating to 'Marvellous City' in English, this is also the title of the city's official song. With such promotion, it is no wonder Rio de Janeiro is Brazil's most visited destination, and one of the most popular resorts in the southern hemisphere.
Due to the tropical savannah climate, the weather in Rio de Janeiro stays roughly the same all-year round. In February temperatures are similar to those of the previous month, perhaps even a degree or two higher.
Temperature
February can be considered to be the warmest month of the year in this region, with an average temperature of 27°C. In the afternoon, the mercury climbs to an average high of 30°C; at night, it doesn't drop below the average low of 24°C. About 25% of the days are classified as hot, more than 60% as warmhis is definitely a perfect month to be outdoors.
Sea Temperature
The sea temperature, too, is more than pleasant, averaging a warm 25°C.
Rain
Rainfall remains at a steady 105mm over the month. However, with roughly 11 wet days during February, the rainfall is expected to be more infrequent than in January, but heavier when it does occur. That said; you will most likely experience rainfall during your visit this time of yearummer is the wettest part of the year in Rio.
The chance that rainfall occurs decreases very slightly in the course of the month, though, from 50% in the beginning to 47% toward the end. Thunderstorms are by far the most common type of precipitation, being recorded on 58% of all the days with rainfall. Light rain and moderate rain are likely to be experienced as well, respectively occurring on 20% and 16% of those wet days.
Humidity
Because of these high temperatures and plenty of rainfall, humidity is quite high in the city. The humidity ranges between 53% and 96% all throughout the month, sometimes even reaching 100%.
Cloud
Cloud cover is pretty high all-month long as well, but does appear to be decreasing as the month progresses. It drops from 74% to 68%, which implies that the sky is partly cloudy throughout February.
Sunshine
In February, there are 7 hours of sunshine per day on average, a number that is also observed in January, March and August and is the highest of the entire year.
Planning to visit Rio de Janeiro in the near future? Take a look at our detailed and up-to-date weather forecast.
Hotels for Rio de Janeiro in February
Hilton Rio de Janeiro Copacabana
One of the very best hotels you could stay at in Rion February or any other months the Hilton Rio de Janeiro Copacabana. This fantastic 5-star hotel is located just minutes from the city's best beaches. Some of its 545 rooms offer stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. Its great location also places it close to cultural attractions and restaurants and nightlife venues. Amenities include buffet breakfasts, a luxury spa, a rooftop terrace, two restaurants and a bar.
Ibis Rio de Janeiro Santos Dumont
The Ibis Rio de Janeiro Santos Dumont is one of the more basic accommodations in the heart of the city, but offers all the modern conveniences the typical traveller looks for, and it does it at a substantially lower cost than many of the other big name chains. The hotel is located close to the city's most popular sights, and a buffet-style breakfast is served up each morning.
Sofitel Rio de Janeiro Copacabana
Another absolutely recommended hotel to consider staying at is the Sofitel Rio de Janeiro Copacabana. Situated across Copacabana Beach, easily the city's most famous beach and one of its main attractions, this 5-star hotel boasts a pub, coffee shop and restaurant, two swimming pools, a gym, a sauna and Turkish bath, and a business centre.
Beaches for February for Rio de Janeiro
Copacabana Beach
With sea temperatures averaging 25°C, this is a wonderful time of year to hit the beach. Without question the most famous of all beaches in Rio is Copacabana Beach. This iconic crescent-shaped sand beach stretches out for about 4 kilometres along the coast. With its ever-vibrant atmosphere and sun-coloured people, Copacabana Beach is one of Rio's major attractionsn absolute must-visit during your stay.
There are numerous things to do, ranging from beach volleyball and soccer to outdoor exercising, swimming and sunbathing, and sipping cocktails at one of the beach bars.
Restaurants and Bars for Rio de Janeiro in February
Gula Gula
Gula Gula is a popular restaurant among locals and tourists alike. Located in Leblon, this recommended place to eat serves an impressive variety of dishes, from pies and quiches to entrée salads, pastas and grilled meats. Its drinks menu is equally as extensive, featuring various beers and wines to complement your meal.
Bar Lagoa
Continue the Carnival celebrations at Bar Lagoa; a down-to-earth bar with an understated art deco feel. For beer drinkers navigating the city's many cocktail bars, this place is considered a safe haven. Ice cold draft beers are the focus here and what you see is what you get. The bar is frequented by locals due to the rather nostalgic atmosphere, giving a glimpse into Rio de Janeiro before the tourism-directed development.
Things to Do in Rio de Janeiro in February
Rio Carnival
February is the busiest (and the warmest, with an average temperature of 27°C) time of year in Rio de Janeiro, as the city welcomes the Rio Carnival. This is arguably the most well-known carnival in the world, as well as the biggest with no fewer than two million people joining in the celebrations on each of the five days of the event. There's plenty to see and do at this extravagant and flamboyant festival, including watching the ornate parade floats and taking part in the samba dancing.
Samba City
Rio is considered to be the samba capital of the world. A major attraction in the city is Samba City, a complex where the top samba schools in the city practice and prepare their floats for the prestigious Carnival parade.
You can tour this fascinating facilityours include a stop at the bar where you get a caipirinha and can enjoy music played by a samba band, a lecture on the typical samba instruments, an exhibition of floats and costumes from previous parades, and the area where the costumes are made. This is a definitely a fun thing to do during your visit to Rio!
