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Weather Comparison

Sao Paulo vs Rio de Janeiro

Side-by-side weather comparison for March

Sao Paulo: 26°CRio de Janeiro: 30°C361 km apart

March Weather: Sao Paulo vs Rio de Janeiro

MetricSao PauloRio de JaneiroBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer26°C (79°F)30°C (86°F)Rio de Janeiro
Average LowHigher is milder19°C (66°F)23°C (73°F)Rio de Janeiro
Rain DaysFewer is drier20 days21 daysSao Paulo
PrecipitationLess is drier139 mm210 mmSao Paulo
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier9h/day10h/dayRio de Janeiro
HumidityLower is more comfortable78%78%Tie
UV IndexLower is safer66Tie
Wind SpeedCalmer is better16 km/h11 km/hRio de Janeiro

Which City is Better in March?

Based on sunshine hours, rain days, comfortable temperatures, and humidity levels, Sao Paulo edges ahead as the better destination in March. Sao Paulo offers 9 hours of daily sunshine with only 20 rain days, while Rio de Janeiro sees 10 sunshine hours and 21 rain days.

Sao Paulo sits in the comfortable travel range at 26°C. Rio de Janeiro runs hot at 30°C.

For travelers who prioritize dry weather, Sao Paulo is the stronger choice in March. Rio de Janeiro receives 1 more hour of sunshine per day, which matters for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Temperature Comparison in March

Sao Paulo reaches an average high of 26°C (79°F) and drops to 19°C (66°F) at night during March. The daily temperature range is 7°C, meaning relatively stable temperatures from day to night.

Rio de Janeiro averages 30°C (86°F) for the high and 23°C (73°F) for the low, with a daily range of 7°C. The 4°C difference is noticeable but not dramatic.

Both cities are in the Southern Hemisphere, so they share the same seasonal pattern in March.

Rainfall Comparison in March

Sao Paulo receives approximately 139 mm of rainfall across 20 rain days during March. Rain is frequent, so waterproof gear is essential.

Rio de Janeiro sees 210 mm over 21 rain days. That makes Sao Paulo the drier option by 1 rain day and 71 mm of total precipitation.

Both cities share similar humidity levels at 78%.

What to Pack: Sao Paulo vs Rio de Janeiro

Packing for Sao Paulo in March

Highs of 26°C, lows of 19°C, 20 rain days

  • light layers
  • a light jacket for evenings
  • sunscreen
  • waterproof jacket
  • compact umbrella
  • waterproof shoes
  • moisture-wicking fabrics

Packing for Rio de Janeiro in March

Highs of 30°C, lows of 23°C, 21 rain days

  • lightweight breathable clothing
  • sunscreen SPF 50+
  • sunglasses
  • a wide-brimmed hat
  • waterproof jacket
  • compact umbrella
  • waterproof shoes
  • moisture-wicking fabrics

Pack for both: waterproof jacket, compact umbrella, waterproof shoes, moisture-wicking fabrics. These items are useful in either destination during March.

Year-Round Comparison: Sao Paulo vs Rio de Janeiro

The table below shows average high temperatures and rain days for every month of the year, helping you find the best time to visit either city.March is highlighted for quick reference.

MonthSao PauloRio de Janeiro
HighRainHighRain
Jan26°C23d31°C20d
Feb27°C20d31°C17d
Mar26°C20d30°C21d
Apr24°C10d28°C14d
May22°C8d26°C11d
Jun22°C5d25°C7d
Jul22°C5d25°C7d
Aug23°C5d26°C8d
Sep24°C10d27°C11d
Oct25°C14d28°C14d
Nov25°C16d28°C19d
Dec26°C20d30°C20d
26°

Sao Paulo Weather in March

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

30°

Rio de Janeiro Weather in March

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Sao Paulo warmer than Rio de Janeiro in March?
No. In March, Rio de Janeiro is warmer with an average high of 30°C (86°F) compared to Sao Paulo at 26°C (79°F), a difference of 4°C.
Which city gets more rain in March, Sao Paulo or Rio de Janeiro?
Rio de Janeiro gets more rain in March with 21 rain days and 210 mm of precipitation. Sao Paulo is the drier option with 20 rain days.
Is it better to visit Sao Paulo or Rio de Janeiro in March?
It depends on your preferences. Sao Paulo averages 26°C and 9 hours of daily sunshine with 20 rain days. Rio de Janeiro averages 30°C with 10 sunshine hours and 21 rain days. If you prefer cooler conditions, choose Rio de Janeiro. For drier weather, Sao Paulo is the better pick.
How far apart are Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro?
Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro are approximately 361 km (224 miles) apart. Sao Paulo is located in Brazil (South America) while Rio de Janeiro is in Brazil (South America).
What is the best month to visit Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro?
For Sao Paulo, February tends to be the best month with 10 hours of daily sunshine and a high of 27°C. For Rio de Janeiro, April is typically ideal with 10 sunshine hours and 28°C highs.

Compare Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro in Other Months

Climate data sourced from the Open-Meteo Historical Weather API, using ERA5 reanalysis data covering 30-year normals from 1991 to 2020. All temperatures shown in Celsius with Fahrenheit equivalents. Rain days count days with 1 mm or more of precipitation. Sunshine hours represent average daily values. This comparison is generated from long-term climate averages and individual trips may vary.

Sao Paulo coordinates: -23.55°N, -46.63°E | Rio de Janeiro coordinates: -22.91°N, -43.17°E