Are domestic flights in Brazil expensive?

Generally, no. Airlines like LATAM, Gol, and Azul offer competitive rates. However, they are budget-style, so watch out for baggage fees that can double the price of a cheap ticket.

Is it cheaper to buy a round-trip ticket or two one-ways?

For international flights to Brazil, one round-trip ticket is almost always cheaper. Avoid mixing airlines for the outbound and return legs if you are on a budget.

Booking Affordable Flights to Brazil

To get the best price, book your flight 3 to 6 months in advance and fly into São Paulo (GRU) rather than Rio de Janeiro. Use flight search engines like Google Flights to track price drops and avoid traveling during the peak months of December and January.

Set up price tracking alerts. Go to Google Flights, enter your departure city and destination (start with GRU), and select your rough travel dates. Toggle the 'Track prices' switch on. This will email you whenever the fare drops significantly.
Target the cheapest arrival airport. São Paulo (GRU) is the main international hub and almost always cheaper than Rio (GIG) or Brasília (BSB). Compare the cost of flying into GRU and taking a domestic flight or bus to your final destination versus flying direct to a secondary city.
Time your booking window. For international flights to Brazil, the 'Goldilocks zone' is typically 90–180 days before departure. Avoid booking last minute (under 30 days) as prices for South American routes spike heavily.
Avoid the high season. Steer clear of December, January, and Carnival (usually February/March). If you must travel then, book at least 6 months out or consider flying mid-week (Tuesday or Wednesday) to shave $100–$200 off your ticket.

Are domestic flights in Brazil expensive?: Generally, no. Airlines like LATAM, Gol, and Azul offer competitive rates. However, they are budget-style, so watch out for baggage fees that can double the price of a cheap ticket.
Is it cheaper to buy a round-trip ticket or two one-ways?: For international flights to Brazil, one round-trip ticket is almost always cheaper. Avoid mixing airlines for the outbound and return legs if you are on a budget.