If you’re going to quest to Brazil and aren’t sure when to go, perhaps you should consider going during The Festival of the Ox. Known as “Bumba Meu Boi”, this is one localized event that you’re not going to want to miss out on. It’s quite different than your traditional Carnaval event, and it is centralized to several destinations, but it could very well become one of your favorite moments in life. The following can help guide you to the where, when, and how of this incredible event for tourists and locals alike.
When To Travel
Look at booking your trip into the first and second week of August. Some travel experts say that you should book in late June, but if you book towards the tail end of the festival, you’ll find some incredible moments. As it winds down, things only ramp up, and therefore you should stick to this time frame. If you have a great deal of time, then by all means, go there all of June and August, and explore more of this and beyond.
Where To Go
When looking at traveling to Brazil during “Bumba Meu Boi”, you will want to look at 2 cities in particular. You will want to travel to Sao Luis or Maranhao. If you want just one spot that is best, then look into Sao Luis, which will showcase a more European influence, as you go through streets and buildings of pastel and cobblestone, with a historical centralized flair. Of course you could set your sights on the surrounding areas if you’d like to save a little money, but the closer you get, the better the view of the celebrations.
What To Expect
This celebration is a mix of several cultural influences that range from African to Indian and even Portuguese. You’re going to end up seeing the death of the ox and the resurrection, a folk tale that comes alive with parades, street dancing, song, and a lot more. You’ll also see plays, and much of the story come through in various moments, a throwback to colonial era Brazil.
All in all, there are several celebrations that you can attend in this South American locale, but this is one of the lesser known options and definitely one to explore for anyone that wants to traverse off the beaten path a bit.
If you are planning on visiting Brazil’s neighbor Argentina, you are required to pay the Argentina Reciprocity Fee. This is not a visa, but an entry fee that must be paid online and in advance if you are a U.S., Canadian or Australian citizen.
For additional details on requirements for US Citizens, visit the State Department website or the Embassy of Argentina.
Argentina Reciprocity Fees 