A Practical Guide for Fall Festival Attendees

Fall Festival 2024 - Practical Guide for Attendees

The International Fall Festival is just two weeks away! Here is some practical information to answer some common questions and to help you prepare for your trip.

NKT-IKBU - New Kadampa Tradition - Brazil - Temple Brazil Fall Festival Prep - 2024 -2597

General Preparations

Travel Documents: Always carry your passport, visa, and driver’s license (especially if you plan to rent a vehicle).
Travel Insurance: Ensure you have health and accident insurance before departure.
Local Currency: Bring Brazilian reais (R$). Credit cards may not always be accepted in rural areas, so it’s best to get R$ before your trip or at the airport in Brazil.

Weather Conditions

Seasons and Climate: Late October to early November is spring in Brazil. Expect warm days and cooler nights, and it can become very windy especially near the Temple.
Clothing: Pack light clothing for daytime and warmer layers for the cooler evenings. A raincoat or waterproof jacket is also recommended.
Sun and Mosquito Protection: Bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and insect repellent to stay protected from the sun and insects.

Health and Medications

Pharmacy: Rural pharmacies may not be open 24 hours. Pack a first aid kit with your personal medications (both prescribed and over-the-counter), along with essentials like pain relievers, fever reducers, medicine for gas, nausea, diarrhoea, antihistamines, bandages, and antiseptics.
Drinking Water: The water on-site is generally drinkable. However, if you're sensitive to changes in local water, you can purchase bottled water on site or a water purification system.

Safety While Camping

Keep Valuables Safe: Store your valuables in a secure place.
Wildlife Caution: The nearby protected forest is home to various wildlife, including potentially dangerous animals like snakes. Please do not enter the forest. Always keep your tent closed, never store food in or near your tent, and check your shoes before putting them on to prevent surprises from small animals or insects.

Stay Connected

Internet and Mobile Access: Wi-Fi is available in most areas of the Temple site, but it may not always be reliable. To stay connected, consider buying an eSIM. Be aware, however, that TIM network may not work at KMC Brazil.

Useful Accessories to Bring

Headlamp or Flashlight: Some paths and areas may not be well-lit at night, so bring a reliable light source.
Power Bank: Access to electrical outlets may be limited. A portable charger will keep your devices powered. Don’t forget to bring electrical adaptors suitable for Brazil's outlets.

Local Transport

Taxis and Ubers: You can easily book a taxi or Uber directly from the airport to KMC Brazil. They are also available from cities like São Paulo, Jundiaí, and Itu. However, in the local town near the Festival, it can be more challenging unless you’re fluent in Portuguese.