Following more than three centuries of Portuguese rule, Brazil gained its independence in 1822. The country maintained a monarchical system of government until the abolition of slavery in 1888, and the subsequent military proclamation of a republic in 1889. Brazilian coffee exporters politically dominated the country until populist leader Getúlio Vargas rose to power in 1930. Brazil experienced more than half a century of populist and military governments until 1985, when the military regime peacefully ceded power to civilian rulers. Brazil continues to pursue development through industrial and agricultural growth. Exploiting its vast natural resources and a large labor pool, Brazil is currently South America’s leading economic power and regional leader. One of the first countries in the area to begin working on its economic recovery, pressing problems (due to highly unequal income distribution and crime) remain. In January 2010, Brazil assumed a nonpermanent seat on the UN Security Council for the 2010-2011 term.

Immunizations: Contact your physician or a travel clinic six to eight weeks before departure. Based on your individual risk assessment, a health care professional can determine your need for immunizations and/or preventive medication, and advise you on the precautions to take to avoid getting sick.

Travel Insurance: Ingle International provides comprehensive travel insurance for adventure travelers who wish to cover themselves in preparation the unexpected.

Entry/Exit Requirements: To obtain information on specific entry requirements, contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting.

Mosquito-borne diseases, including malaria, dengue fever, and yellow fever can be a threat, especially in rural and jungle areas, the northern parts of Brazil, and during the rainy seasons. Off-road travelers should cover up and use mosquito repellent.

Dengue fever is increasingly present in urban areas. On March 21, 2008, the Brazilian Ministry of Health confirmed a dramatic increase in cases of dengue fever in the city of Rio de Janeiro. Travelers planning to visit the area should visit their physician or a travel clinic, and take appropriate precautions to protect themselves against mosquito bites.

HIV/AIDS is also a significant risk in Brazil. Travelers should be cautious about activities involving the transmission of bodily fluids.

Medical care is adequate in major cities, but varies in quality elsewhere. Certain medication may not be available. Private hospitals and clinics that are located in cities are often better staffed and more thoroughly equipped than public or rural facilities. Physicians and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for medical care.

Exercise a High Degree of Caution

The decision to travel to a dangerous location is the sole responsibility of the traveler. Travelers are responsible for their own personal safety.

Travelers should exercise a high degree of caution in Brazil due to high crime rates and regular incidents of gang-related and other violence.

Gang-Related Violence

Incidents of gang-related violence continue to pose a threat to the safety of travelers in the São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro states. In the past, targets included police stations, buses, official buildings, and businesses. In Rio de Janeiro, violent incidents and armed clashes between police forces and alleged criminals recently occurred at Galeão Antonio Carlos Jobim International Airport, as well as on the highway leading to the airport. Violence also occurs in the vicinity of the shantytowns. Although additional security forces have been deployed throughout both states, future incidents are possible and could involve the use of firearms. Travelers should use only authorized airport taxi services.

Border areas, including the states of Amazonas, Acre, Rondônia, and Mato Grosso, are considered dangerous due to drug trafficking. Other high-risk areas include the tri-border area of Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay, where criminal activities (such as trafficking of illicit goods) occur.

Travelers are advised to exercise a high degree of caution at all times, and to avoid traveling alone—especially at night.

Crime

Serious crime, often involving violence, is high in a number of urban centers, including Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, Recife, and Salvador. The use of firearms is common. Victims have been seriously injured or killed when resisting perpetrators.

Robberies involving tourists regularly occur—even during the day—and are sometimes violent. Travelers should avoid isolated areas and unsupervised beaches, where there is poor visibility from the sidewalk. They should also ensure their hotel or living accommodation is totally secure. In Rio de Janeiro, travelers should be extremely vigilant in areas outside of the South Side (Zona Sul), as well as in areas surrounding the rodoviaria (bus station).

Incidents of sexual assault against foreigners have also been reported, sometimes involving the use of sedative drugs. Unaccompanied female travelers should exercise caution when in the company of strangers or recent acquaintances, and should be extremely cautious when accepting invitations.

Any visit to a favela (shantytown) should be undertaken with a reputable tour guide only. Crime levels in these areas are extremely high.

Street crime, including pickpocketing, mugging, and purse-snatching, is common, especially during public festivities, such as the annual Carnival. Tourists are a popular target. Travelers should be watchful when visiting outdoor markets, and be cautious of strategies to distract their attention. They should not walk alone on beaches or in central areas of major cities after dark, but should instead opt for well-lit and well-frequented streets. They should carry only small amounts of money on their person, and should avoid showing signs of affluence, including carrying laptop computers. Valuables and important documents should be stored in a hotel safe. As Brazilian authorities require all individuals to carry some form of identification, travelers should carry photocopies of the identification page of their passport and of their visa documentation.

Express kidnappings and carjackings occur throughout the country, particularly in larger cities. Victims are usually picked up from the street and forced to withdraw funds from automated bank machines (ABMs). Remain cautious with new acquaintances offering friendship, hospitality, or assistance.

Piracy occurs in Brazilian coastal waters. Mariners are advised to take appropriate precautions and ensure they are able to easily communicate with authorities in case of emergency.

Police Assistance

It is highly recommended to report all criminal incidents to the nearest police station. In Brasília and São Paulo, emergency numbers are: 190 (police), 192 (ambulance), and 193 (fire department). The São Paulo Tourist Police (Delegacia de Proteção ao Turista) number is (11) 3120-4447 or 3151-4167. In Rio de Janeiro, tourist police can be reached at (21) 2332-2924, 2332-2511, and 2332-5112.

Civil Unrest

Political demonstrations and labor strikes occasionally occur, and could lead to violent incidents. Roadblocks are sometimes used during protests. Travelers should avoid large gatherings,  and should keep informed of potential future demonstrations by monitoring local news reports closely.

General Safety Information

Travel in the Amazon border regions and the Pantanal wetlands should only be undertaken with trained guides. These areas are largely uninhabited and dangerous.

Exercise caution when swimming offshore. Strong currents are common and sharks are present, especially in Recife. Follow local advice before going swimming.