Brazilian tapirs have a body length between 1.7 and 2 m (5.5 - 6.5 ft), a tail length between 5 and 10 cms (2 - 4 inches) and they weigh between 225 and 250 kgs (500 - 550 lbs).

Their short, sparse hair is dark brown in colour and they have a low, erect mane that runs from the top of their head down the back of their neck. Their ears are large and are coloured white on the rims, they have small eyes and a large proboscis.

They are good swimmers and when frightened they will plunge into the water.