BRAZIL TRAVEL ADVICE

Brazil is a beautiful country known for its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality. However, like any destination, it's essential to be aware of safety and security measures to ensure a pleasant and trouble-free trip. Here are some tips and guidelines to help you stay safe while traveling in Brazil.

1. Understanding the Environment

Brazil is a vast country with diverse regions, each having its own safety considerations. Urban areas, especially large cities like Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, and Salvador, have higher crime rates compared to rural areas. Petty theft, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, is common in tourist areas, so staying vigilant is crucial. Places such as Foz do Iguaçu, Florianópolis, Balneário Camboriú, Gramado, Campos do Jordão and smaller cities are quite safe and it is rare to hear about pickpocketing and things like that, but just like the big cities in Europe, always keep your belongings under surveillance.

2. Personal Belongings and Money

• Keep Valuables Secure: Avoid displaying expensive items like jewelry, cameras, and smartphones in public. Use a money belt or hidden pouch to carry your passport, credit cards, and extra cash.

• Cash and cards: To avoid any credit card scams, I recommend using a Digital Wallet or cash for small amounts at street vendors. In shopping malls and restaurants, it is very safe to use a card.

• Use ATMs Wisely: Only use ATMs located in secure places like shopping malls, banks, or hotels. Avoid withdrawing large amounts of cash, especially at night.

• Carry Copies of Important Documents: Keep a copy of your passport, visa, and other important documents in a separate location from the originals.

• Big Events: If you are attending a large-scale celebration in Brazil, such as the Carnival in Rio de Janeiro or other major cities, be aware that criminals target people who appear to be wealthy or easy targets, for example, those who have drunk a lot of alcohol.

• Be aware of your personal security and surroundings, and be cautious about proposals from strangers that take you away from public areas.

• P.S. If you are on a club or party buy your own drinks and keep them in sight.

3. Transportation

• Public Transport: Buses and metro systems can be crowded, especially during peak hours. Keep an eye on your belongings and avoid traveling alone late at night.

• Taxis and Rideshares: It is the best option if you are not familiar with the place, especially places with favelas/communities, such as Rio de Janeiro and Salvador. Use registered taxi services or rideshare apps like Uber for a safer experience. Avoid hailing taxis from the street, particularly in unfamiliar areas.

• Car Rentals: If renting a car, keep the doors locked and windows up, especially in traffic. Avoid leaving valuables in the car. São Paulo and the south of Brazil have nice roads and are easy to drive, but you may prefer Uber or Taxi in the center of São Paulo. The North and Northeast of Brazil are beautiful, but it is more comfortable to hire a tour or a private driver (always check recommendations).

• Rail travel and Subway: There is a limited railway infrastructure in Brazil, and there have been safety incidents on the rail network. Metro is commom in the center of São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro and Salvador but it´s not so efficient.

4. Accommodations

• Choose Reputable Hotels: Stay in well-reviewed and reputable hotels or hostels. Ensure your accommodation has good security measures, such as 24-hour reception and secure entry systems.

• Room Safety: Use the hotel safe to store valuables. Always lock your room when you leave, even if it’s just for a short period.

5. Health and Well-being

• Food and Water: Drink bottled or filtered water and avoid consuming ice made from tap water. Be cautious with street food; choose vendors that appear clean and well-maintained. In general, Brazilians are very concerned about cleanliness and hygiene, so it's very easy to eat here

6. Beaches and Outdoor Activities

• Beach Safety: Only swim in designated areas and pay attention to local warnings about strong currents or unsafe conditions. Avoid isolated beaches, especially at night. Beaches unsuitable for swimming have signal flags.

• Outdoor Adventures: If you plan to hike or explore nature reserves, go with a guide or in a group. Inform someone of your plans and expected return time. You can always check recommend guides with me.

7. Local Customs and Laws

• Respect Local Customs: Brazilians are known for their friendly and relaxed demeanor. Show respect for local customs and traditions.

• Legal Awareness: Be aware of local laws and regulations. Drug use and trafficking are severe offenses in Brazil.

• Smoking indoors is prohibited. Only people over 18 can smoke.

• Drinking: Only people over 18 can consume alcoholic beverages. Drinking is allowed on the streets and beaches, and it is common to take a cooler with beers to the beach. It is strictly prohibited to drive after drinking alcoholic beverages.

8. LGBT+ travellers

• There is no legislation against homosexuality in Brazil. Same-sex marriage is legal and LGBT+ couples have equal rights in law.

9. Emergency Contacts

• Emergency Numbers: Familiarize yourself with local emergency numbers. In Brazil, the police can be reached at 190, medical emergencies at 192, and the fire department at 193.

• Embassy Information: Keep the contact details of your country’s embassy or consulate handy in case you need assistance.

10. Terrorism and Civil Protests

• Terrorism: Terrorist attacks are uncommon in Brazil, in fact there has never been a proven case.

• Civil Protests: During election periods there may be some protests and discussions about politics, but nothing has happened in the last months. In any case, if you are somewhere and notice a commotion, leave the area.

11. Favelas

Favelas (‘slum’ or ‘shanty town’) are urban neighbourhoods of high-density informal housing. They exist in all major Brazilian cities and can border areas used by tourists and visitors. 

The security situation in many favelas is unpredictable. Visiting a favela can be dangerous. Avoid all favelas, including favela tours marketed to tourists and any accommodation, restaurants or bars advertised as being within a favela.

You should:

• make sure the suggested route does not take you into a favela if you’re using GPS navigation

• avoid entering unpaved, cobbled or narrow streets which may lead into a favela - tourists have been shot after accidentally entering favelas

If you’re unsure about a location, check with your hotel or the local authorities.

12. Extreme weather and natural disasters

• In Brazil, there are no major natural disasters (earthquake, volcano, hurricane and tornado), but between December and March it can rain a lot in some regions and flooding can occur.

Conclusion

By taking these precautions and staying informed, you can enjoy a safe and memorable trip to Brazil. Embrace the vibrant culture, beautiful landscapes, and warm hospitality that this incredible country has to offer. Safe travels!