Weather Comparison
Sao Paulo vs Rio de Janeiro
Side-by-side weather comparison for March
March Weather: Sao Paulo vs Rio de Janeiro
| Metric | Sao Paulo | Rio de Janeiro | Better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average HighHigher is warmer | 26°C (79°F) | 30°C (86°F)▲ | Rio de Janeiro |
| Average LowHigher is milder | 19°C (66°F) | 23°C (73°F)▲ | Rio de Janeiro |
| Rain DaysFewer is drier | 20 days▲ | 21 days | Sao Paulo |
| PrecipitationLess is drier | 139 mm▲ | 210 mm | Sao Paulo |
| Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier | 9h/day | 10h/day▲ | Rio de Janeiro |
| HumidityLower is more comfortable | 78% | 78% | Tie |
| UV IndexLower is safer | 6 | 6 | Tie |
| Wind SpeedCalmer is better | 16 km/h | 11 km/h▲ | Rio 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.
| Month | Sao Paulo | Rio de Janeiro | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| High | Rain | High | Rain | |
| Jan | 26°C | 23d | 31°C | 20d |
| Feb | 27°C | 20d | 31°C | 17d |
| Mar | 26°C | 20d | 30°C | 21d |
| Apr | 24°C | 10d | 28°C | 14d |
| May | 22°C | 8d | 26°C | 11d |
| Jun | 22°C | 5d | 25°C | 7d |
| Jul | 22°C | 5d | 25°C | 7d |
| Aug | 23°C | 5d | 26°C | 8d |
| Sep | 24°C | 10d | 27°C | 11d |
| Oct | 25°C | 14d | 28°C | 14d |
| Nov | 25°C | 16d | 28°C | 19d |
| Dec | 26°C | 20d | 30°C | 20d |
Sao Paulo Weather in March
Full forecast, packing tips, and activities
Rio de Janeiro Weather in March
Full forecast, packing tips, and activities