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This guide covers what international visitors – particularly those flying in from the United States – should know before arriving in Rio de Janeiro for the Rio Game 2026. From choosing where to stay, to navigating game day logistics, to making the most of the days around the match, this article addresses the practical questions that matter most when traveling to a major sporting event in a new city.
On September 27, 2026, the Maracanã will host its first NFL regular-season game – known as the Rio Game – with the Dallas Cowboys facing the Baltimore Ravens at 5:25 PM local time. Brazil currently counts over 36 million NFL fans, making it one of the league’s largest markets outside the United States, and demand for travel around the Rio Game weekend is already building.
For most visitors, the trip will run five to seven days. The game itself is three hours. What happens before and after – how you arrive, where you sleep, how you move through the city – is what actually shapes the experience.
Rio de Janeiro is a vibrant city where people want to be – this partnership is a perfect match.
- As of January 2026, US citizens are required to obtain a Brazil e-Visa before traveling. The application is done entirely online, costs approximately US$51, and is typically approved within 72 hours. It allows stays of up to 90 days per visit. Apply well in advance of your trip.
- September is spring in Rio. Expect daytime temperatures around 25°C to 28°C (77-82°F), with cooler evenings around 17°C (63°F) and occasional afternoon showers.
- The time zone is BRT (UTC-3) – one hour ahead of Eastern Standard Time.
- Portuguese is the national language. English is spoken at most hotels and upscale restaurants, but less consistently elsewhere.
Without local coordination, the experience often becomes fragmented. With the right structure, it becomes fluid.
| Accommodation Type | Best For | Key Consideration |
|---|---|---|
| 5-star hotel | Couples, solo travelers | Book early – event weeks sell out fast |
| Luxury apartment | Families, groups | More private, more flexible |
| Private villa | Large groups | Requires dedicated transport |
Regardless of your choice, securing accommodation well in advance is strongly recommended. The best properties in Rio’s prime neighborhoods disappear quickly around major international events, and the Rio Game is expected to bring record demand from American travelers.
- Private helicopter tours – A 30-minute flight over the coastline, Sugarloaf Mountain, and Guanabara Bay gives you a perspective on Rio’s geography that nothing else replicates.
- Private yacht charters – A morning on the water, with the city skyline behind you and the open Atlantic ahead.
- Private guided tours – A local guide makes a real difference in Rio, where the most interesting places are often not the most visible ones.
- Private chef dining – Brazilian cuisine at a high level, in your villa or apartment, tailored to your preferences.
| Day | Suggested Focus |
|---|---|
| Thursday | Arrival + fast-track + private transfer; relaxed evening |
| Friday | Helicopter tour; afternoon beach; dinner in Leblon |
| Saturday | Morning yacht charter; guided tour of Santa Teresa |
| Sunday | Game day – private transfer to Maracanã; post-game dinner |
| Monday | Late start; brunch; departure transfer |
Brazil Exclusive Travels is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or officially connected to the NFL or any of its partner organizations. All game-related information is provided for editorial reference only.
