U.S. Issues Travel Advisory for Brazil

The U.S. State Department recently issued a travel advisory warning travelers to exercise increased caution in certain areas of Brazil, citing the increased risk of crime.

“Violent crime, such as murder, armed robbery, and carjacking, is common in urban areas, day and night,” according to the State Department advisory. “Gang activity and organized crime is widespread.  Assaults are common. U.S. government personnel are discouraged from using public, municipal buses in all parts of Brazil due to an elevated risk of robbery and assault at any time of day, and especially at night.”

While most of the country is under a Level 2 alert, advising travelers to exercise increased caution in certain areas, including Brazil’s Administrative Regions (satellite cities); the favelas; and international land borders with Venezuela, Colombia, Peru, Bolivia, Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana, and Paraguay, were all issued Level 4 travel warnings, advising potential travelers to avoid these regions.

The State Department recommends that travelers consider the following if they travel to Brazil: Be aware of your surroundings; use caution when walking or driving at night; don’t physically resist any robbery attempt; avoid walking on beaches after dark and use increased caution when hiking in isolated areas; do not display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches or jewelry; be extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs; and to use caution at, or when going to, major transportation centers or on public transportation.