Brazil🇧🇷
Brazil, located in South America, shares its borders with almost all other South American countries except Chile and Ecuador. As the fifth-largest country in the world, both by land area and population, Brazil is known for its vast Amazon Rainforest, scenic beaches, and vibrant festivals like the world-famous Rio Carnival. The country stands out for its diverse culture, a mix of its Indigenous roots, Portuguese colonial influence, and African, Asian and European immigrants. Must-sees are its cultural capital Salvador with African-influenced, colourful architecture, the Iguazu Falls shared with Argentina and Sao Paulo, the bustling economic hub.
⚠️Things you should avoid⚠️
- Avoid tap water in rural and remote areas.
- Don't resist if you are a victim of robbery or mugging.
- Avoid making ostentatious displays of wealth which can attract attention.
- Avoid discussing sensitive topics like politics and religion in public.
- Avoid buying items from street vendors that could be counterfeit or stolen.
- Avoid venturing into unknown neighborhoods without local guidance.
- Avoid travelling at night in less reputable areas.
- Avoid unlicensed taxis which may present safety concerns.
- Avoid hiking alone in remote areas due to the risk of getting lost.
- Avoid public transportation late at night due to increased risk of crime.
Overall
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Crime 🔫
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Brazil has a high rate of crime, particularly in urban areas. Violent crimes such as murder and robbery are prevalent. Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro are particularly notorious for pickpocketing and armed muggings. Carjackings can occur even in lighter traffic and at stop signs. The favelas (slum areas) take in particular a heavy toll of drug-related violence.
Terrorism 💣
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Terrorism risk is relatively low in Brazil. There is no recent history of terrorist attacks. However, Brazil does have organized crime groups which sometimes can be mistaken for terrorists due to their violent and unconventional methods.
War ⚔️
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Brazil is in a very peaceful situation in terms of war. It has not been involved in any international armed conflict for more than 140 years. Its last war was the Paraguayan War which ended in 1870.
Natural Disasters 🌊
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Brazil is susceptible to variety of natural disasters such as flash floods and landslides, especially during the rainy season from November to April. The country also experiences periodic droughts in the Northeast. In January 2020, the country faced major floods and landslides resulting in many deaths in Minas Gerais state.
Medical Care 🏥
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Private healthcare services exist and are of a good standard, particularly in bigger cities. However, public healthcare services vary widely in terms of quality and availability. In rural areas, medical facilities can be scarce or substandard. Travellers are advised to ensure they have adequate health insurance.
Tap Water Quality 💧
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Tap water quality in Brazil varies greatly depending on the location. In major cities, the tap water is generally safe to drink but may not be palatable. However, in rural and remote areas, it is advised to only drink bottled or treated water due to possible contamination.
Disease Burden 🤒
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The burden of diseases in Brazil is a mix of communicable and non-communicable diseases with heart disease and stroke being the leading causes of death. In addition, the country faces challenges with diseases such as dengue fever, Zika and chikungunya, particularly in urban and semi-urban areas. The COVID-19 pandemic also severely stressed the healthcare system.
Corruption 💸
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Corruption is a significant problem in Brazil despite ongoing efforts to tackle it. Notable incidents include the 'Operation Car Wash' scandal which implicated politicians, bureaucrats, and businessmen in a massive corruption scheme involving the national oil company, Petrobras.
Safety for Women ♀️
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While many women travel safely in Brazil, crimes including sexual assault and violence can occur. Women are advised to take extra precautions, particularly when travelling alone or during the nighttime.
Safety for Queer People 👬
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Homosexuality is legal and same-sex marriage has been legal since 2013. There is a vibrant LGBTQ+ scene in some cities, notably Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro. However, homophobia and transphobia remains a concern and violence against LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly transgender women, continues.
Censorship 📺
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Brazil enjoys a fairly high level of media freedom, with the constitution offering broad protection for speech and press rights. There have been instances of journalists being subjected to violence and political pressure when reporting on sensitive issues.
Public Transportation 🚌
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Public transportation varies by city in Brazil. Cities like Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro have subway systems, buses and taxis. However, safety can be a concern, especially in the evening hours. Intercity bus travel is common and generally safe, but accidents can occur due to poor road conditions, especially in rural areas.
Other useful information
🔒 How safe is it?
Safety can vary greatly depending on the region and the specific context in Brazil. Urban areas, particularly popular tourist areas, are generally safe. However, crime is a significant issue, especially in cities and popular tourist areas. While Brazil does not pose a significant risk in terms of terrorism and war, travelers should be mindful of natural disasters and local diseases.
🏰 Embassies in this Country
Many countries have embassies in Brazil, mostly located in the capital city, Brasilia. Some of the embassies in Brazil include the United States Embassy, the British Embassy, and the Australian Embassy.
💉 Recommended Vaccinations
Travelers to Brazil are recommended to be up-to-date with routine vaccines. Specific vaccines recommended are Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, Yellow Fever, Rabies, Meningitis, Polio, Measles (MMR), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis), Chickenpox, Shingles, Pneumonia and Influenza.
🐍 Dangerous Animals
Brazil is home to many dangerous animals such as the poison dart frog, electric eel, Amazonian giant centipede, southern black widow, bull shark, jaguar and pit vipers. To protect yourself, stay aware of your surroundings, don't provoke any animals, and seek immediate medical attention if bitten or stung.
🛂 Visa Requirements
Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Many countries, including the U.S., UK, Canada, and the European Union nations, do not need a visa for tourism or business stays of up to 90 days. It's essential to check exact requirements based on your nationality prior to travel.
💲 Currency
The currency of Brazil is the Brazilian Real (BRL). Money can be exchanged at banks, hotels and airports.
💳 Credit Card Acceptance
Credit cards are widely accepted in Brazil, particularly in hotels, restaurants and many shops.
🧑🏭 Is it possible to work and travel in this country?
Work and travel opportunities can be found in Brazil, especially in industries such as tourism, teaching English and childcare. However, it's important to ensure that you have the correct visa and work permissions.
💵 Cost of Travel and Living
Brazil offers a variety of experiences to suit different budgets. Cities like Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro can be more expensive than rural and more remote areas. The cost of living is generally lower than that of North America and Western Europe.