Is It Safe To Travel To Brazil?

Brazil is, indeed, an engaging destination, popular for a rich portfolio of best beaches, unique cultures, and impressive sceneries. Currently, Brazil is the largest country in South America, and it is unique because it features incredible beautiful attractions such as Rio de Janeiro, Iguazu Falls, and the Amazon jungle.

However, crime is an issue in Brazil; it may not be prevalent to the extent of some other countries, but it is present in some regions. However, it is worthy of note that where precaution and planning are taken, the risk that is involved in traveling is minimal; and most travelers have their wonderful experience of their holidays. This is what you should know about safety in Brazil for tourists.

Understanding Brazil's Crime Challenges

Some of the most common cases in Brazil include armed robberies and homicides, and the country is among the most dangerous countries in the world. Gang violence is common in poor neighborhoods known as favelas in large cities such as Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo. It does not mean that tourists are directly aimed at; however, one should always be on the lookout.

The US State Department has categorized Brazil as Level 2, which means that travelers should take extra measures of caution due to crime. Crime rates are comparatively low in the south and south-eastern region of Brazil and are higher in the north and west-central regions of the country.

Staying Safe in Brazil

To a relief, more than 6 million foreign tourists visit Brazil every year and majority of them do not fall victims to crime if they avoid being careless. Here are tips for staying safe in Brazil:Here are tips for staying safe in Brazil:

• Stay in areas that are frequently visited in the cities. Do not walk around at night, wear expensive jewelry, or get lost in peripheral areas outside tourist destinations.
• Do not use pirate taxis, only those that are registered and may be ordered by phone through an application, or with the help of a taxi company. Avoid unmarked cabs. Request the hotel to organize airport shuttles.
• Only withdraw money at ATMs located within secure areas such as hotels, malls or banks. Do not withdraw money alone in the night in poorly lit areas as this increases your chances of being mugged.
• Do not be flashy and do not wear expensive jewelries or wristwatches to make you a target, especially in public conveyances. Take only small amounts of money and one credit/debit card. Do not carry a lot of money and other valuable items around; leave them in the hotel safe.
• Avoid going around areas that are busy such as during Carnival or during major soccer matches since there is always an increased rate in thefts and pickpocketing. Travel in groups and ensure that you protect your valuable very well.
• Make sure you buy good travel health insurance for emergencies and accidents while traveling. Ensure that it contains medical evacuation in Brazil.
• Report to your embassy/consulate and give them the outlines of what you plan to do while on your trip, so that they can help in case of an emergency.

Safety by Region

Presently, most large Brazilian cities are characterized by the juxtaposition of very affluent and very impoverished areas. Safety varies widely even within cities:Safety varies widely even within cities:

Rio de Janeiro – Generally has higher crime rates with some neighborhoods such as Copacabana, Ipanema, Leblon safe for tourists. Standard precautions apply.

São Paulo – High incidence of violent crime in general. Downtown is dangerous especially during the night while areas like Jardins are safer for tourists. Note: rich and poor live side by side so be careful.

Regarding crime rates comparable to Rio and São Paulo – Salvador and Fortaleza. Avoid walking alone during the night, do not take individually guided tours, and do not wear or carry items that reflect wealth.

Brasilia – designed as a modernistic city it lacks the vibrancy of other large cities but is less dangerous. It is still sensible to make certain preventive and protective measures.

Amazon – Beware when it comes to eco tours here. Book your taxi from licensed operators and do not venture alone into the countryside as you will be at high risk of being mugged, kidnapped, or attacked by wild animals. Travel in organized groups.

Southern Brazil – The cities in the south region such as Curitiba are more secure compared to the north region. But don’t lower your defenses all the way. Apply standard safety protocol.

Rural areas – Compared to cities overall, the risk of robbery and petty theft is still lower, but be careful about where you move and do not travel to remote roads or other areas.

Finally, it is necessary to say that enjoying the Brazilian vacation is safe.

The country of Brazil can be really interesting and it has been proved time and again with its intense geographical, cultural and its rich and diverse beach and adventure tourism. Although some places are dangerous, most of the time, employ reason, take stock, and stay out of no-go zones to have an incredible holiday. Thousands of tourists enjoy this fascinating place in millions every year safely. So let us be wise and travel safely.