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Brazil
- Brazil’s security risk is moderate due to frequent petty theft, favela-based gangs, and social unrest.
- Crime is a more notable concern in Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, as well as cities in the less affluent northeastern states (i.e., Salvador, Recife, and Maceio) and in Belem.
- Use ATMs in secure locations (e.g., inside hotels or reputable establishments) to avoid the risk posed by express kidnapping.
- The risk of natural disasters in Brazil is low, though heavy rainfall is known to cause floods and landslides in remote regions These risks are more pronounced in southeast Brazil.
Risk Factors
- Foreign nationals are at risk of being targeted for opportunistic and petty crimes, such as bag-snatching and pickpocketing. Such crimes are most common in public transport hubs and crowded tourist sites, especially at night; keep valuables secure and out of sight.
- The risk of serious crime is higher in impoverished areas (favelas) of Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, Recife, Salvador and other large cities. Such crimes can include muggings, armed robberies and sexual assault; travelers are advised to avoid such areas, which are recognizable.
- It is advisable to leave parks and recreational areas before sunset, as such areas witness higher levels of theft and sexual assault after dark.
- Motorcycle-riding thieves are known to commit crime by driving next to stationary cars and robbing the driver or pedestrians from the sidewalk. Do not resist such demands, as the criminal could escalate to violence.
- Some tourists have been targeted with the date rape drug Boa noite Cinderela (Goodnight Cinderella) at places such as bars and nightclubs; avoid accepting food or drinks from strangers.
- Avoid bringing valuables to the beach. Arrastoes, also known as mass robberies, occur in crowded places like beaches and on public transport during traffic jams.
- Kidnapping is largely limited to wealthy locals. However, foreign nationals have been victims of express kidnappings (sequestro relâmpago), which are short-term abductions that happen largely near banks or ATMs. Victims are briefly detained to solicit a ransom or take money from their ATM cards.
- Self-driving is not advised due to variable road conditions across the country; instead it is preferable to hire an experienced personal driver who knows the local area and security conditions.
- Radio taxis or taxis arranged by reputable hotels are safer than those hailed on the street. Ride-sharing apps (e.g., Uber) are available in most major cities and are reasonably safe and efficient.
- The use of buses and trains is not recommended due to a poor safety record and the threat of petty crime.
- Demonstrations and rallies are common in Brazil and are usually well-attended. Major demonstrations usually occur in important streets, public squares or in front of government buildings in São Paulo, Brasília and Rio de Janeiro.
- Most protests remain peaceful and cause localized travel disruption; however, clashes between security forces and protestors are occasionally reported and can pose incidental risks to bystanders. Steer clear of large gatherings to mitigate the risk of threats to bystanders.
- Conservative attitudes are common in rural areas. Discrimination and harassment can pose challenges, especially for female travelers and the LGBTQ+ community, though such risks are significantly lower in major urban centers.
- There is a low risk of natural disasters, though heavy rainfall can cause significant flooding and landslides, especially in Brazil’s southern and south-eastern regions. Unpaved rural roads can become impassable in the rainy season.
- Elevated risks of violent crime and drug trafficking in Brazil are most pronounced in remote border regions with Venezuela, Colombia, and Paraguay, where organized crime and smuggling operations are prevalent.