Looking to access content from back home or gain an extra layer of security while visiting Rio de Janeiro? Perhaps you’re trying to get a Brazilian IP address so you can use Brazil-only services as you travel. Whatever the case, a Virtual Private Network can help. Below, we reveal the best VPNs for Rio de Janeiro and Brazilian users in general.
First off, what is a VPN? These tools encrypt your traffic and route it through a remote server, which hides your online activities from anyone who might be watching. Additionally, this allows you to access content that’s normally blocked in Brazil. For instance, if the Brazilian government was to block a social media site like WhatsApp again, you’d still be able to use it, provided you picked a foreign VPN server.
Here’s a quick rundown of the best VPNs for Rio de Janeiro. If any stand out, just scroll down for a more detailed review of each.
Best VPN services for Rio de Janeiro:
- NordVPN: Our #1 VPN for Rio de Janeiro. Top-notch online security and some of the fastest servers we’ve seen. Follows a strict no-logs policy and includes a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
TIP In our testing we found that the cheapest NordVPN plan (Standard) works perfectly for Rio de Janeiro. - Surfshark: Best budget VPN for Rio de Janeiro. Has around 100 server locations with plenty in Latin America. Works well with most online content.
- ExpressVPN: Beginner-friendly VPN service that makes it easy to get a Brazilian IP address abroad. 24/7 customer support via live chat.
- CyberGhost: Perfect for beginners. Huge network of servers and around 60 in Brazil alone. Some are even optimized for specific online activities.
- IPVanish: Fast and reliable VPN with a no-logs policy and no connection limit. Key features include around-the-clock support and strong security tools.
- PrivateVPN: Servers in Brazil and 60+ other countries. Steady speeds and a strong focus on online security. Protect up to 10 devices at once.
- Hotspot Shield: Another great option for Rio de Janeiro. Beats censorship with its own custom protocol and offers user-friendly apps for all platforms.
WANT TO TRY THE TOP RIO DE JANEIRO VPN RISK FREE?
NordVPN is offering a fully-featured risk-free 30-day trial if you sign up at this page. You can use the VPN rated #1 for Rio de Janeiro with no restrictions for a month – great if you want to unblock Brazilian services while outside of the country or to gain complete online privacy.
There are no hidden terms—just contact support within 30 days if you decide NordVPN isn’t right for you and you’ll get a full refund. Start your NordVPN trial here.
Best VPNs for Rio de Janeiro
Our experts searched far and wide for the best VPNs for Rio using the criteria below.
- Servers in Brazil
- Apps for both desktop and mobile devices
- Fast speeds and unlimited bandwidth
- A no-logs policy
- Outstanding customer service
- Value for money
Here’s our list of the best VPN for Rio de Janeiro:
1. NordVPN
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
- FireTV
Website: www.NordVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
NordVPN is our top provider for Rio. It has servers in around 60 countries and is suitable for a huge range of tasks. For instance, you can get a Brazilian IP address and stream GloboPlay abroad, torrent anonymously, or even use its special Tor over VPN servers to access the dark web securely. Support staff are on-hand 24/7 via live chat and up to six simultaneous connections are permitted.
This service has an incredible security toolkit. Key features include AES-256 encryption, leak protection, automatic ad and tracker-blocking, a kill switch, and obfuscated servers designed to beat strict censorship. NordVPN has a no-logs policy and has proven it with multiple independent audits.
NordVPN apps are available for Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Android TV, Linux, and Fire TV. Additionally, you can manually install it on most wifi routers.
Pros:
- Super-fast NordLynx protocol
- Ideal for torrenting and streaming
- Strong encryption and a kill switch
- Lots of speedy servers in Latin America
Cons:
- Collects advertising IDs on mobile devices
Our score:
BEST VPN FOR RIO DE JANEIRO:NordVPN is our #1 choice. Provides high levels of privacy and works with most online services. Unlimited bandwidth and a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full review of NordVPN.
2. Surfshark
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.Surfshark.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
Surfshark is the best budget VPN for anyone in Rio de Janeiro. Its network spans 100 countries including Brazil, Chile, Colombia, and Paraguay, so you’ll never be too far from a speedy, reliable server. On that note, this is one of the quickest providers we’ve seen, making it ideal for data-intensive tasks like watching Rede TV, Netflix, or Apple TV. There are no connection limits whatsoever, and if you run into any issues, you can just get in touch using the 24/7 live chat service.
This service all but guarantees secure browsing using AES-256 encryption, a kill switch, and DNS leak protection. However, it also offers a few additional features for those who need extra privacy. For instance, you can enable the CleanWeb mode to block ads, trackers, and malware automatically, or choose to rotate your IP address periodically. Surfshark has a strict no-logs policy so there’s no need to worry about your activities being monitored.
Surfshark offers apps for iOS, Android, Mac, Windows, and Linux. Alternatively, you can manually install it on most wireless routers.
Pros:
- Quick and reliable
- Can handle whatever you throw at it
- Highly-affordable
- Unlimited connections
- Robust encryption and a no logs policy
Cons:
- Surfshark One required to use some of the most interesting tools
Our score:
BEST BUDGET VPN:Surfshark is the best cheap VPN for Rio de Janeiro. Hide your browsing habits from the Brazilian government and everyone else. Comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full Surfshark review.
3. ExpressVPN
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.ExpressVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
ExpressVPN is a well-respected provider with plenty to offer. For instance, it’s among the quickest on the market, reliably works with a wide range of streaming services, and has servers in 94 countries. What’s more, it excels at sidestepping censorship; this is one of the few VPNs that still works in China so keeping your activities hidden from the Brazilian government is child’s play.
Its apps include all of the features you’ll need for secure browsing, like a kill switch, 256-bit AES encryption, and protection against DNS and IPv6 leaks. Additional features include automatic protection against malicious websites and obfuscation that turns on as and when it’s needed. ExpressVPN doesn’t keep any logs and is based in the British Virgin Islands; a location with no mandatory data-retention laws.
Apps are available for iOS, Android, Linux, Windows, and Mac. There’s even custom router firmware that simplifies the process of installing it on all of your devices.
Pros:
- Obfuscation and a kill-switch
- Fast servers in 94 countries including Brazil
- No-fuss security
- 24/7 live chat
Cons:
- Monthly subscribers have a lower connection limit than those on annual plans
Our score:
RELIABLE & VERSATILE:ExpressVPN has a superb reputation. Helps you get a Brazilian IP address anywhere and keeps you safe with uncrackable AES-256 encryption. Has a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full ExpressVPN Review.
4. CyberGhost
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.Cyberghost.com
Money-back guarantee: 45 DAYS
CyberGhost has one of the largest networks on the market. There are over 9,000 servers in 90 countries, with many optimized for tasks like anonymous torrenting, accessing popular streaming platforms, and gaining extra privacy. Best of all, this VPN is absurdly fast, delivering average speeds of nearly 300 Mbps in our latest tests. There’s a seven-device limit and 24/7 live chat just in case you need it.
Users can take advantage of 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch, and leak protection to stay safe online. There are a couple of more advanced features too, like random port connection and customizable smart rules, which let you connect automatically under certain circumstances. CyberGhost doesn’t keep any logs, has been professionally-audited, and publishes regular transparency reports for your peace of mind.
CyberGhost has apps for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Firestick. You’ll have to follow manual setup instructions to get it running on routers though.
Pros:
- Outstanding VPN for beginners
- Incredibly cheap when you subscribe for three years
- No logs policy
- Reliable AES-256 encryption
Cons:
- May not offer enough customization for experienced users
- No port forwarding
Our score:
A CHEAP & EASY VPN:CyberGhost is perfect for newcomers. Not subject to mandatory data retention laws, and works with a ton of streaming services. Also offers a generous 45-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full CyberGhost VPN review.
5. IPVanish
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.IPVanish.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
IPVanish is a zero-logs provider with first-class performance. As such, it’s a strong choice for anyone looking to browse securely, stream their favorite shows, or torrent while in Rio de Janeiro. Unlike most of its rivals, this VPN lets you secure as many devices as you like. Need help? No problem: customer support is available day and night over live chat.
Privacy tools include 256-bit AES encryption, DNS and IPv6 leak protection, and a kill switch. Additionally, you can obfuscate your traffic (on OpenVPN connections), block local traffic outright, or have the service try to reconnect automatically after an outage. It is based in the US (which is a Five Eyes country) but there’s no need to worry since IPVanish has proven that it keeps no logs with multiple audits.
IPVanish has its own iOS, Android, Mac, and Windows apps. However, it has to be manually configured for Linux systems and routers.
Pros:
- Servers in 50+ countries
- No connection limit
- Fast connections
- Permits torrenting
Cons:
- No Linux app
- Based in the US
Our score:
PERMITS UNLIMITED CONNECTIONS:IPVanish has servers in Brazil and 60 other countries. A reliable VPN that is good for torrenting, streaming on Kodi, and unblocking Argentinian content outside of the country. No-logs policy. Apps for all platforms. Has a 30-day money back guarantee on all plans.
Read our full IPVanish review.
6. PrivateVPN
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.PrivateVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
PrivateVPN has servers in more than 60 countries, and while it does have fewer servers in each location than some of its competitors, it’s lightning-fast and super-reliable. Further, this VPN works with just about every service you can think of, and even lets you browse without censorship in places like China.
This service keeps you secure with a kill switch, secure AES-256 encryption, stealth mode, and IPv6 and DNS leak protection. Crucially, PrivateVPN follows a strict no-logs policy, though we’d like to see it undergo an independent audit like some of its rivals. Users can connect up to 10 devices at a time and get in touch with support via email or live chat.
PrivateVPN has apps for Android, Windows, Mac, and iOS. You’ll have to manually install it on Linux systems and supported routers.
Pros:
- Very fast speeds
- Accepts Bitcoin
- Works with a range of Netflix country catalogs
- Servers in Brazil
Cons:
- Live chat is not around the clock
- Fewer servers in each location
Our score:
STRONG ON PRIVACY:PrivateVPN has a no-logs policy, apps for all platforms, and servers in 63 countries. Powerful encryption and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full PrivateVPN review.
7. Hotspot Shield
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.Hotspotshield.com
Money-back guarantee: 45 DAYS
Editor’s Note: Hotspot Shield is owned by Pango, Comparitech’s parent company.
Hotspot Shield has a network of roughly 1,800 servers in 80 countries. It’s able to securely access a huge range of content, including Netflix US, Hulu, Disney+, Apple TV, YouTube, and anything else you can think of. With steady speeds, a high connection limit, and 24/7 customer support, this really is one of the most beginner-friendly VPNs on the market.
Let’s talk about security. Hotspot Shield doesn’t overwhelm the user with advanced features, but it does offer 256-bit AES encryption, leak protection, a kill switch, and a special Catapult Hydra protocol that’ll keep the Brazilian government (and everyone else) from even realizing that you’re using a VPN. There’s a no-logs policy in place too, so you privacy is in good hands.
Hotspot Shield has apps for Linux, Mac, Windows, iOS, and Android. If you’d like to get it running on your router, you’ll have to follow manual setup instructions.
Pros:
- Servers in 80+ countries (including Brazil)
- Limited free plan
- Super fast Catapult Hydra protocol
- No usage logs
Cons:
- Based in the US
- Doesn’t accept crypto payments
Our score:
FAST FREEMIUM VPN:Hotspot Shield provides privacy and online freedom. It has apps for all platforms and servers in 80+ countries; including Brazil. Works to get privacy at home and on public wi-fi. Generous 45-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full Hotspot Shield review.
How to use a VPN for Rio de Janeiro
Using a VPN to gain privacy and online freedom in Rio de Janeiro is easy. We have included a short guide below to get you started.
Here’s how to use a VPN for Rio de Janeiro:
- Subscribe to a VPN provider for Rio de Janeiro from this guide. We recommend NordVPN because it is the best all-rounder.
- Download the VPN app to your chosen device, NordVPN has apps for Windows, macOS, IOS, Android, and more.
- Choose a server in Brazil to get a Brazilian IP address or a server in the location of your choice, and click connect.
- Load a website or streaming service that was previously geo-blocked and you should now have full access.
- Still not working? Try clearing your cookies and cache or connecting to a new server from the list.
Rio de Janeiro VPN testing methodology
We understand that it’s hard to choose a Virtual Private Network. That is why we thoroughly test VPNs to find the best services. Below is a comprehensive list of the features we looked for when curating this list of the best VPNs for Rio de Janeiro:
- Global server network: The more locations, the better. This increases the amount of content you can access and reduces the distance to your closest server, leading to lower latency.
- Strong security and privacy: Brazil has a history of online surveillance so the top VPNs for Rio de Janeiro must have kill switches, first-class encryption, DNS leak protection, and advanced privacy features. We also require a no-logs policy to keep your habits secure.
- Exceptional versatility: Your VPN has to be suitable for everyday usage. Our team tries streaming, torrenting, and playing online games to make sure they can handle whatever you throw at them.
- Fast speeds: Slow speeds lead to choppy video playback, sporadic disconnection, and an unsatisfying experience. We regularly speed test leading VPNs to make sure that only that quickest earn a place in our list.
- User-friendly apps: We prioritize services with apps that are easy for complete novices to use. We’re big fans of anything that lowers the bar to entry even further, like 24/7 live chat or a total lack of connection limits.
- Value for money: Providers have to be fairly priced, but we also keep an eye out for any deals, discounts, or money-back guarantees that are available so that you can cut the cost even more.
Want to learn more? Check out our VPN testing methodology post.
Rio de Janeiro VPN FAQ
Can I use a free VPN in Rio de Janeiro?
There are many free VPNs available in app stores. However, those services have weak privacy policies that may allow them to harvest your data and sell it to third parties. This means that these VPNs could be a threat to your privacy, which is the exact opposite of what a VPN is supposed to do.
Instead, we suggest sticking to reputable, time-tested VPN providers. Many have proven their privacy credentials via third-party audits and you’ll almost always be able to get a money-back guarantee, letting you try them out for free.
Do I need a VPN for privacy in Rio de Janeiro?
Yes. The Brazilian government has been known to engage in high levels of surveillance. It implements a surveillance law called the Marco Civil, which forces all ISPs to engage in mandatory data retention for a period of 12 months. As a result, the authorities can easily monitor everything you did online the previous year.
Disclaimer: Although we’ve spent hours researching this topic, we are not legal experts. As such, nothing we’ve said above should be taken as legal advice. We encourage you to consult local laws or perhaps even seek a professional’s opinion before attempting to use a VPN in Brazil.
How bad is censorship in Brazil?
Citizens still generally enjoy a lot of online freedom in Brazil. For example, social media sites, video-sharing platforms, and messengers like WhatsApp, Skype, Telegram, and Zoom are all still freely available.
That said, it is true that the government does censor some content. As of 2021, the Ministry of Justice and Public Security has ordered all torrent websites to be blocked in the country. And the authorities have previously censored blogs critical of the government, for instance.
Can a VPN unblock Torrent sites in Rio de Janeiro?
Yes, while most torrent sites are blocked by Brazilian ISPs, you can access them as normal by connecting to a Virtual Private Network (VPN). In fact, you’ll be able to use all kinds of services that aren’t normally available in Rio, from Peacock to NOW.
Important: Comparitech does not condone piracy. We only endorse downloading content that you have the legal right to access.
What else can I do with a VPN in Rio de Janeiro?
VPNs are perhaps best known for their ability to unblock your usual streaming platforms from abroad. However, that’s just one use case. Here are a few more:
- Regain access to your regular Prime Video catalog on vacation
- Bypass censorship imposed by the government
- Use public Wi-Fi hotspots without fear of hacking or surveillance
- Prevent your ISP from throttling your connection
- Get around web-filtering software on publicly-available networks
- Protect yourself from copyright trolls when torrenting