sao paulo brazil travel restrictions

Update April 12, 2024

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Travel Advisory October 19, 2023

Brazil - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with updates to Country Summary.

Exercise increased caution in Brazil due to  crime . Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Do not travel to:

• Any areas within 150 km/100 miles of Brazil’s land borders with Venezuela, Colombia, Peru, Bolivia, Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana, and Paraguay due to  crime . (Note: This does not apply to the Foz do Iguacu National Park or Pantanal National Park.)
• Informal housing developments (commonly referred to in Brazil as favelas, vilas, comunidades, and/or conglomerados) at any time of day due to  crime  (see additional information below).
• Brasilia’s administrative regions (commonly known as “satellite cities”) of Ceilandia, Santa Maria, Sao Sebastiao, and Paranoa during non-daylight hours due to  crime  (see additional information below).

Country Summary:   Violent crime, such as murder, armed robbery, and carjacking, is common in urban areas, day and night. Gang activity and organized crime is widespread. Assaults, including with sedatives and drugs placed in drinks, are common. U.S. government personnel are discouraged from using 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.

If you decide to travel to Brazil: 

• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
• Do not accept food or drinks from strangers.
• Use caution when walking or driving at night.
• Avoid going to bars or nightclubs alone.
• Avoid walking on beaches after dark.
• Do not display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches or jewelry.
• Be extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs.
• Use caution at, or going to, major transportation centers or on public transportation, especially at night. Passengers face an elevated risk of robbery or assault using public, municipal bus transportation throughout Brazil.
• Use increased caution when hiking in isolated areas.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter .
• Review the Country Security Report for Brazil.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist .
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.

International Borders – Level 4: Do Not Travel

U.S. government personnel are not permitted to travel to areas within 150 km/100 miles of the international land borders with Venezuela, Colombia, Peru, Bolivia, Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana, and Paraguay without advance approval from security officials due to crime. Travel to the Foz do Iguacu National Park and Pantanal National Park is permitted.

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas .

Informal Housing Developments (commonly known as “Favelas”) – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Do not travel to informal housing developments (commonly referred to in Brazil as favelas, vilas, comunidades, and/or conglomerados), even on a guided tour.  Neither the tour companies nor the police can guarantee your safety when entering these communities.  Even in these communities that the police or local governments deem safe, the situation can change quickly and without notice.  While some informal housing developments have clear boundaries or gates, or even names such as “favela”, “vila”, “comunidade”, or “conglomerado”, other such developments may be less obvious, and may be identified by crowded quarters, poorer conditions, and/or irregular construction.  In addition, exercise caution in areas surrounding these communities, as occasionally, inter-gang fighting and confrontations with police move beyond the confines of these communities.  Except under limited circumstances and with advance approval, U.S. government personnel are not permitted to enter any informal housing developments in Brazil. Read the Safety and Security Section on the  country information page  and consult the maps on the Embassy’s website for further information regarding favelas.

Visit our website for Travel High-Risk Areas .

Brasilia’s Administrative Regions (commonly known as “Satellite Cities”) – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Without advance approval from security officials, U.S. government personnel are not permitted to travel to Brasilia’s Administrative Regions of Ceilandia, Santa Maria, Sao Sebastiao, and Paranoa between the hours of 6:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. (non-daylight hours) due to crime.

Embassy Messages

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Quick Facts

Must be valid on the date of entry

One page required for entry stamp

Yes, beginning April 10, 2025

None required, but see Health section

More than 10,000 BR must be declared to Customs

Embassies and Consulates

U.S. Embassy Brasilia SES 801- Avenida das Nacoes, Lote 03 70403-900 - Brasilia, DF Brazil Telephone: 011-55-61-3312-7000 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: 011-55-61-3312-7400 Fax: (61) 3312-7651 Email: [email protected]

Embassy Branch Office in Belo Horizonte Avenida do Contorno, 4520 / 2nd floor – Funcionários 30110-028 Belo Horizonte, MG – Brazil Telephone: +55 (31) 3338-4000 E-mail: [email protected] Emergency After-Hours Telephone: Please contact the U.S. Embassy in Brasilia

Consular Agency in Brasilia’s Consular District Manaus Consular Agency Edificio Atrium, Suite 306 Rua Franco de Sá, 310 69.079-210 Manaus, AM Brazil Telephone: 011-55-92-3611-3333 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: Please contact the U.S. Embassy in Brasilia

U.S. Consulate General Porto Alegre Avenida Assis Brasil, 1889 Passo d' Areia 91010-004 - Porto Alegre, RS Brazil Telephone:  011-55-51-3345-6000 Email:  [email protected]

U.S. Consulate General Recife Rua Goncalves Maia, 163, Boa Vista 50070-125 - Recife, PE Brazil Telephone:  011-55-81-3416-3050 or 011-55-81-3416-3080 Emergency After-Hours Telephone:  011-55-81-3416-3060 or 011-55-81-9916-9470 Email:  [email protected]

Consular Agency in Recife’s Consular District U.S. Consular Agency Fortaleza Avenida Santos Dumont 2828, Aldeota, Suite 708 60150-162- Fortaleza, CE Brazil Telephone: 011-55-85-3223-4902 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: Please contact the U.S. Consulate General in Recife

U.S. Consulate General Rio de Janeiro Avenida Presidente Wilson, 147, Castelo 20030-020, Rio de Janeiro, RJ Brazil Telephone:  011-55-213823-2000 Emergency After-Hours Telephone:  011-55-21-3823-2029 Email:   [email protected]

Consular Agency in Rio de Janeiro’s Consular District U.S. Consular Agency Salvador da Bahia Avenida Tancredo Neves, 1632, Caminho das Arvores Salvador Trade Center-Torre Sul, Room 1401 41820-020 - Salvador, Bahia Brazil Telephone:  011-55-71-3113-2090/2091/2092 Emergency After-Hours Telephone:  Please contact the U.S. Consulate General in Rio de Janeiro: (21) 3823-2029

U.S. Consulate General Sao Paulo Rua Henri Dunant, 500 Chacara Santo Antonio 04709-110 - Sao Paulo, SP Brazil Telephone:  011-55-11-3250-5000 Emergency After-Hours Telephone:  011-55-11-3250-5373 Email:  [email protected]

Destination Description

See the Department of State’s Fact Sheet on Brazil for information on U.S.-Brazil relations.  

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

There are no COVID-related entry requirements for U.S. citizens.

Effective midnight on April 10, 2025 , a visa will be required for U.S. citizens to travel to Brazil, regardless of the purpose of travel. For more information about visa requirements, visit the Brazilian government-authorized website, https://brazil.vfsevisa.com

You will need:

• A valid U.S. passport.
• A valid Brazilian visa or e-visa, beginning April 10, 2025 for tourists and currently for all other types of travel.
• Visit the Brazilian government-authorized website to obtain your e-visa: https://brazil.vfsevisa.com

Find a  Brazilian consulate abroad .           

Brazilian law requires any minor who is a Brazilian citizen (even dual nationals who are both U.S. and Brazilian citizens) to have permission from each parent to travel within Brazil or exit the country. When a minor travels with both parents, no written authorization is needed. When the minor travels with only one parent or without either parent, s/he  must have two original written authorization letters from each absent parent  and carry a copy* of the child’s birth certificate or have an annotation in his/her Brazilian passport authorizing travel alone or with only one parent. Brazilian citizen minors without authorization letters and a birth certificate* or an annotated Brazilian passport likely will not be allowed by authorities to pass through immigration or to board a flight departing Brazil.     

The U.S. Embassy and its consulates cannot intervene in Brazilian immigration matters or request that this requirement be waived for U.S. citizen travelers.

Written Authorization Letter:  If the absent parent is in Brazil, written authorization letters must be in Portuguese and notarized by a Brazilian notary. If the absent parent is in the United States or elsewhere outside of Brazil, the authorization must be done at the nearest Brazilian Embassy or Consulate using the form provided by that office. Again, please note that Brazilian law requires two original authorizations for each absent parent. This is important, because Federal Police may request and retain one authorization upon the minor’s entry into Brazil. Authorities may then request the second original document upon the minor’s departure.  Authorizations written in English or executed before a U.S. (or any non-Brazilian) notary public are not accepted by the Brazilian Federal Police.  Similarly, birth certificates issued outside of Brazil that are not  apostilled * and translated by a certified translator may not be accepted.

Brazilian Passport Annotation:  In lieu of carrying authorization letters, parents of dual U.S.-Brazilian citizen minors may instead request an annotation be placed in the minor’s Brazilian passport authorizing the minor to travel with only one parent, or to travel alone or with a third party. This annotation replaces the requirement for written authorization letters until the passport expires. Parents residing in Brazil should contact the Brazilian Federal Police for details on obtaining an annotated passport. Parents residing abroad should contact the nearest Brazilian Embassy or Consulate. The annotated Brazilian passport must not be expired and must be carried along with the minor’s U.S. passport at all times for Brazilian Federal Police to accept it in lieu of an authorization letter. There is no comparable annotation available in U.S. passports.

Children who are not dual citizens of Brazil: Please note that, while Brazilian law related to travel authorization does not explicitly apply to non-citizens of Brazil, Federal Police have, at times, delayed the travel of non-Brazilian minors who lack appropriate authorization from both parents. For this reason, we recommend that families of non-Brazilian minors who may travel through Brazil without one or both parents execute written authorizations (following the instructions in the preceding paragraph) in advance of travel and ensure that the minor, or the minor’s traveling companion, carries the original or notarized copy** of the minor’s birth certificate.

An exemplar of the form used by Brazilian authorities to document parental permission for minors to travel without one or both parents may be found here.

*There is a useful pamphlet published by the Hague Conference called “ The ABCs of Apostilles .” The Brazilian competent authority that issues apostilles is the  Conselho Nacional de Justiça .

**If the birth certificate was issued in Brazil, copies must be notarized by a Brazilian notary. If issued outside of Brazil, copies must be apostilled and translated by a certified translator into Portuguese.

HIV/AIDS Restrictions:  The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Brazil.

Find information on  dual nationality ,  prevention of international child abduction , and  customs regulations  on our websites.

Safety and Security

Crime:  The violent crime rate is high in most Brazilian urban centers. Public transportation, hotel sectors, and tourist areas report high crime rates, but these incidents can happen anywhere and at any time.  Be aware of your surroundings.

• Informal housing developments in Brazil (commonly referred to in Brazil as favelas, vilas, comunidades, and/or satellite cities), even on a guided tour, at any time of day due to crime. Neither the tour companies nor the police can guarantee your safety when entering these areas. Even in favelas that the police or local governments deem safe, the situation can change quickly and without notice. In addition, exercise caution in areas surrounding favelas, as occasionally, inter-gang fighting and confrontations with police move beyond the confines of these communities.
• Brasilia’s administrative regions (commonly known as “satellite cities”) of Ceilandia, Santa Maria, Sao Sebastiao, and Paranoa during non-daylight hours due to crime.
• Any areas within 150 km of Brazil’s land borders with Venezuela, Colombia, Peru, Bolivia, Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana, and Paraguay due to crime. (Note: This does not apply to the Foz do Iguacu National Park or Pantanal National Park.)
• Consider avoiding the use of public, municipal buses in Brazil at any time of day, and especially at night. Crime trends indicate an elevated risk of robbery or assault on public bus systems throughout Brazil. The U.S. government recommends against personnel using public, municipal buses in all parts of Brazil.
• Avoid going to bars or nightclubs alone and avoid leaving with strangers.
• Before going on a date with someone you met on a dating app, tell a loved one who you are meeting, where you are going, and the details of the dating application account.
• Be wary about inviting individuals to your residence. If inviting a new acquaintance to your residence, speak to your door attendant in advance about your invited guest.
• Trust your instincts – if something does not feel right or if you suddenly feel ill, walk away from the situation.
• If you believe you may have been drugged, seek immediate medical attention. Some people can have life-threatening reactions to these drugs. After that, report the crime to local police and contact us at the numbers listed below.
• Traveling Outside Metropolitan Areas After Dark: Travelers are encouraged to organize their trips so that they can travel during daylight hours. Road conditions throughout Brazil can vary widely, and travelers must exercise caution due to debris in the road, horse-drawn carriages, unmarked speed bumps, and other infrastructure deficiencies.
• Armed hold-ups of pedestrians and motorists can happen, including at or near public beaches. Personal belongings, left unattended even for a moment, are often taken. If you are robbed, hand over your personal belongings without resisting. Resisting will increase your risk of injury.
• Carjackings and hold-ups can occur at any time of the day or night, especially at intersections and in tunnels. Some robberies involve individuals robbed at gunpoint and taken to make purchases or to withdraw as much money as possible from one or more ATMs.
• Crime on public transportation occurs.  Registered taxis have red license plates and openly display company information and phone numbers.
• Credit card fraud and ATM scams are common in Brazil. Work closely with your financial institutions to monitor accounts and keep your credit card in view while it is scanned at a point of sale.
• Avoid using ATMs in unfamiliar, secluded, or lightly protected areas. Be aware that criminals often target ATMs and businesses in the early hours of the morning when there are fewer witnesses and law enforcement response times may be delayed. If you opt to use an ATM, select those that are located inside of secure facilities, such as an airport, hospital, bank, or government building. 
• Avoid openly displaying your cell phone.  When using a ride share service or taxi, wait for its arrival in a secure area.
• Avoid large groups or events where crowds have gathered. Public events of any nature, including concerts and sporting events, can unexpectedly turn violent.
• Travel to any areas within 150 km of the international borders with Venezuela, Colombia, Peru, Bolivia, Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana, and Paraguay, except in limited circumstances with the appropriate U.S. Department of State approvals. Individuals with ties to illegal criminal networks operate along Brazilian borders. Travel to the Foz do Iguaçu National Park and Pantanal National Park is permitted.
• Enter any informal housing developments in Brazil (commonly referred to in Brazil as favelas, vilas, comunidades, and/or satellite cities), except in limited circumstances with the appropriate approvals.
• Enter Brasilia’s administrative regions (commonly known as “satellite cities”) of Ceilandia, Santa Maria, Sao Sebastiao, and Paranoa during non-daylight hours.

To reduce the chance of becoming the victim of a crime, in addition to the above recommendations, please review the below precautions:

• Limit the personal belongings you carry with you. Carry your money in your front pockets and limit the number of credit cards you carry. Make copies of all of your personal documents – including your credit cards, license, passport, etc. – and keep them in a safe place. This will be helpful if you lose your documents.
• Do not carry or wear valuable items that will attract the attention of thieves. If you need to wear expensive jewelry or carry a camera, conceal it until you arrive at your destination.
• Be aware of the street environment and avoid contact with those who may be looking for robbery targets. Seek a safer location. Go into a store, bank, or simply cross the street.
• Do not walk on beaches after dark. Assaults are common.
• Use increased caution when hiking in isolated areas, particularly near popular tourist locations in the city of Rio de Janeiro.

Demonstrations  and strikes are common in urban areas, may occur unexpectedly, disrupt transportation, and may escalate into violence.

• Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly become violent. 
• Avoid areas around protests and demonstrations. 
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.
• Check the website of the Embassy or Consulate nearest you for current information on demonstrations.

International Financial Scams:  See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for information.

Victims of Crime: 

U.S. citizen victims of crime should contact the local authorities to file a Brazilian police report before departing Brazil. In most instances, you can report crimes to the tourist or civil police. U.S. citizens should also inform the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate, but local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting the crime.

• Police number - 190
• the U.S. Embassy at 011-55-61-3312-7000
• the U.S. Consulate General in Porto Alegre at 011-55-51-3345-6000
• the U.S. Consulate General in Recife at 011-55-81-3416-3050 or 011-55-81-3416-3080
• the U.S. Consulate General in Rio de Janeiro at 011-55-21-3823-2000
• the U.S. Consulate General in Sao Paulo at 011-55-11-3250-5000

See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• Replace a lost or stolen passport
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• Help you find appropriate medical care
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
• Provide information on  victims' compensation programs in the U.S .
• Provide a list of local lawyers who speak English

The local equivalent to the “911” emergency line in Brazil is divided among four services:

• 190 - Policia (Police)
• 191 - Policia Rodoviaria (on interstate roads)
• 192 - Ambulancia (Ambulance)
• 193 - Bombeiros (Fire Department)

Victims of Domestic Violence or Sexual Assault:  Contact the nearest Embassy or Consulate for assistance after contacting local authorities.

Tourism:  The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities are inconsistent. Inquire with property management about the presence and functionality of safety equipment, such as fire alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. Hazardous areas/activities are normally identified with appropriate signage in major urban centers but may not be in other locations. Tourism industry staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field. In the event of an injury, appropriate and timely medical treatment is consistently available only in or near major cities. First responders can face delays accessing areas outside of major cities to quickly provide urgent medical treatment. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:  You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.  

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy or Consulate immediately. See our  webpage  for further information.

Firearms: Brazil forbids importing, exporting, and possessing firearms without prior authorization of the Brazilian Government. U.S. citizens are subject to arrest and prosecution in Brazil for possession of unauthorized firearms or firearm components anywhere in the country, including airports. This prohibition extends to spent shell casings or ammunition, even if inside luggage during transit, regardless of whether those items were legally purchased in the United States or elsewhere.

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods:  Although counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries, they may still be illegal according to local laws. You may also pay fines or have to give them up if you bring them back to the United States. See the  U.S. Department of Justice website  for more information.

Water Hazards:  Many of Brazil’s beaches have very dangerous riptides, even if the water looks safe. Ocean currents and waves are unpredictable, even in popular beaches frequented by tourists. Shark attacks are reported in the waters of some beaches in northeastern Brazil, particularly near Recife. Always observe posted warnings and never swim while under the influence of alcohol. Follow local authorities’ guidance and refrain from swimming alone in areas marked with red warning signs or at beaches where there are no municipal lifeguards or first responder services.

Electricity Blackouts:  Power failures in large urban centers are common and sometimes followed by increased crime. Most tourist hotels are equipped with generators, minimizing the impact of a blackout, but you should remain cautious.

Natural Disasters:  Flooding and mudslides occur throughout the country and can be fatal. Monitor news and weather reports and adhere to municipal advisories before traveling to areas prone to flooding or landslides. Many of Brazil’s larger cities have frequent heavy rainstorms that cause flash flooding and can disrupt traffic.

Customs Restrictions : Contact the Brazilian Embassy in Washington, D.C. or one of Brazil's consulates in the United States for specific information regarding import and export regulations. Please also refer to our  information on customs regulations .

• Brazilian customs authorities may enforce strict regulations concerning temporarily importing or exporting items such as firearms, antiquities, mineral samples, tropical plants, wildlife, medications, and business and communication equipment. 
• In the Amazon region, there is special scrutiny of exporting biological material. People raising, growing, or exporting biological materials without permits can be charged with “biopiracy.”

Faith-Based Travelers:  See our following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report  – see country reports
• Human Rights Report  – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTI Travelers:  Brazil does not have legal restrictions on same-sex marriage, relations, or events coordinated by LGBTI organizations. However, according to the 2019 Human Rights Report, violence against lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and intersex (LGBTI) individuals was a serious concern, with local NGOs reporting 297 LGBTI persons were victims of hate killings. See our  LGBTI Travel Information  page and section 6 of our  Human Rights report  for further details.

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance:  Brazilian law prohibits discrimination against persons with physical and mental disabilities in employment, education, and access to health care. However, accessibility to public transportation and the ability to accommodate the needs of physically disabled persons are limited in most areas. 

Students:  See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers:  See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

COVID-19 Testing: Brazil is a very large, diverse country with varying medical resources, both private and public, throughout the country. Many private labs perform COVID-19 testing at various prices, typically between $20 and $100.  PCR, serology-based antibody tests, and antigen tests are available.  Turn-around time varies widely depending upon location. Please verify turn-around time with your chosen lab before taking the test.  Express results within 2-4 hours are available in many locations at an increased fee, including in the Guarulhos International Airport in São Paulo and Galeão International Airport in Rio de Janeiro. Testing is available in the private sector without a doctor’s prescription, but a prescription may be required for insurance payment.

In the public healthcare system, each Brazilian state has its own COVID-19 testing plan. We recommend that you  contact local/state authorities for more information.  Typically, a COVID-19 test is ordered by an emergency room physician and then sent to a public lab. Turnaround time is much slower and can take up to seven days, but tests are generally free.  Information on testing sites and procedures is available through the  official app of the Ministry of Health.

COVID-19 Vaccines: The COVID-19 vaccine is available for U.S. citizens to receive in Brazil once they register with the public Unified Health System (SUS) . According to the Ministry of Health, available vaccines include AstraZeneca/Oxford (Fiocruz), CoronaVac (Butantan), Janssen (Johnson & Johnson), and Pfizer (BioNTech). For more information on local availability of COVID-19 vaccines, please see the Brazilian Ministry of Health’s website and also contact local health authorities .  

For emergency services in Brazil, dial 192.

Ambulance services are not present throughout the country or are unreliable in most areas except in state capitals and other large cities. 

We do not pay medical bills.  Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance. 

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See  our webpage  for more information on overseas insurance coverage. Visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

If traveling with prescription medication, check with the  Government of Brazil  to ensure the medication is legal in Brazil. Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. 

Vaccinations:  Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Though the yellow fever vaccine is not required to enter Brazil, travelers wishing to be vaccinated should consider receiving it prior to travel, as local supplies are limited. Please note that the yellow fever vaccine should be administered ten days prior to travel for it to be effective.

Also note that, while yellow fever vaccine is not required to enter Brazil, some neighboring countries (French Guiana, Suriname, Guyana, Bolivia, and Paraguay) do require travelers with recent entries in Brazil to show proof of yellow fever vaccination.

All travelers to the country are advised to carry documentation, such as a vaccination card, that they have been appropriately vaccinated for yellow fever.

The following diseases are prevalent in Brazil:

• Chikungunya
• Leishmaniasis
• Travelers' diarrhea
• Tuberculosis
• Schistosomiasis

In recent years, outbreaks of these diseases have also been detected in certain areas of Brazil:

• Yellow fever

Elective Surgery : Although Brazil has many elective/cosmetic surgery facilities that are on par with those found in the United States, the quality of care varies widely. If you plan to undergo surgery in Brazil, make sure that emergency medical facilities are available and professionals are accredited and qualified. Some “boutique” plastic surgery operations offer luxurious facilities but are not hospitals and are unable to handle emergencies. 

Visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  website for information on Medical Tourism, the risks of medical tourism, and what you can do to prepare before traveling to Brazil.

Non-traditional Medicine: Several U.S. citizens have died while seeking medical care from non-traditional “healers” and practitioners in Brazil. Ensure you have access to licensed emergency medical facilities if seeking such services.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC)

Travel and Transportation

Public Transportation:  Consider avoiding the use of public, municipal buses in Brazil at any time of day, and especially at night. Crime trends indicate an elevated risk of robbery or assault on public bus systems throughout Brazil. The U.S. government recommends against personnel using public, municipal buses in all parts of Brazil.

Public buses are one of the main modes of inter-city road travel. Buses can range (depending on route and price) from luxurious and well-maintained to basic and mechanically unsound. Bus hijacking can occur at random.

Road Conditions and Safety:  Driving on Brazil's roads poses significant risks. Poor driving skills, bad roads, and high-density traffic make road travel more hazardous than in the United States. Road maintenance is inadequate in many areas and some long-distance roads through the Amazon forest are impassable much of the year due to flooding. 

Apart from toll roads, which generally have their own services, roadside assistance is available only sporadically and informally through local mechanics. The fastest way to summon assistance in an emergency anywhere in the country is to dial 193, a universal number staffed by local fire departments. This service is in Portuguese only.

Traffic Laws:  Travelers planning on staying for more than 180 days should obtain an Inter-American Driving Permit to carry with their valid U.S. license if they plan to drive in Brazil. Such permits can be obtained through AAA or other sources. Please note:

• Everyone in the vehicle must wear a seatbelt. Brazilian federal law requires child seats for all children under the age of 7 ½. From age 7 ½ years to 10, children must only ride in the back seat.
• Drivers must yield the right of way to cars on their right. Compliance with stop signs is rarely enforced, so many motorists treat them as yield signs. It is common for drivers to turn or cross one or more lanes of traffic without warning.
• Drivers often flash their lights or wave their hand out the window to signal other drivers to slow down. 
• Pedestrian crossings are only observed in some places, such as Brasilia. 
• Drivers must have their daytime running lights on during the day and headlights on at night on Federal Highways.
• Under Brazil’s Lei Seca (“Dry Law”),  you cannot operate a vehicle with any measurable blood-alcohol level. Checkpoints are often set up in urban areas, and randomly chosen drivers are required to perform a breathalyzer test. Those in violation are subject to legal penalties and having their vehicle impounded. 

See our  Road Safety page  for more information. Visit the website of Brazil’s  national tourist office  and  national authority responsible for road safety . 

Aviation Safety Oversight:  The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of Brazil’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Brazil’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel:  Mariners planning travel to Brazil should also check for  U.S. maritime advisories and alerts .  Information may also be posted to the   U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the  NGA broadcast warnings .

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Brazil was cited in the State Department’s 2022 Annual Report to Congress on International Child Abduction for demonstrating a pattern of non-compliance with respect to international parental child abduction. Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in  Brazil . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the  International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA )  report. 

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Latest update

Exercise a high degree of caution in Brazil due to the threat of violent crime.

Brazil (PDF 1.24 MB)

Americas (PDF 3.25 MB)

Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies.

Call 192 or go to a hospital.

Call 190 or go to the local police station.

Advice levels

Exercise a high degree of caution in Brazil.

• Large scale protests can occur at any time in Brazil. Monitor the media. Follow the instructions of local authorities and review our guidance on  staying safe when there are demonstrations .
• Violent crime, including mugging, armed robbery and carjacking is common. These occur more often in large cities and during festivals, such as Carnaval. Don't go out alone at night. Avoid isolated areas, including beaches. Crime rates are particularly high in shanty towns or 'favelas'. Don't enter favelas, even with a tour group.
• Use only prepaid or official taxis. If using rideshare apps such as Uber, ensure you enter the vehicle with the same plate number and name shown in the app. If you're driving yourself, keep doors locked and windows closed. Ensure your route avoids favelas.
• The wet season is from November to July, depending on the region. Landslides and flooding can occur, and severe storms often delay flights. Be prepared to adjust your travel plans. 

Full travel advice:  Safety

• Brazil experiences recurrent measles outbreaks. It is important to get vaccinated. 
• Common insect-borne diseases include dengue, malaria, yellow fever, Zika virus, chikungunya, filariasis and leishmaniasis. The 2024 seasonal increase in dengue fever is much higher than usual. Protect yourself from insect bites. Get vaccinated against yellow fever where possible.
• HIV/AIDS is a serious risk. Take precautions if you're taking part in high-risk activities.
• Food-related, waterborne and other infectious diseases include cholera, typhoid and hepatitis. Drink boiled or bottled water. Avoid raw or undercooked food. 

Full travel advice:  Health

• Don't use or carry illegal drugs. Penalties for drug offences are severe and include long prison sentences.
• You must carry proof of identity with you. Always carry photo ID, such as a driver's licence and a photocopy of your passport.
• Dual nationals must enter Brazil on their Brazilian passport. If you're male and aged over 18, you may need to do military service. Contact a  Brazilian embassy or consulate  for advice.
• Same-sex relationships are legal but aren't always accepted in rural communities. Avoid public displays of affection.
• Don't drink and drive. Penalties are severe for driving with a blood-alcohol level reading over 0%. 

Full travel advice:  Local laws

• Australian passport holders do not need a visa to enter Brazil for short stays. For more information, contact an  embassy or consulate of Brazil .
• Entry and exit conditions may change without warning. Follow the advice of border and health authorities and comply with local regulations. Contact the nearest Brazilian embassy or consulate for the latest details.
• Brazilian children (including dual nationals) must have written consent from any non-accompanying parent to depart Brazil. 

Full travel advice: Travel

Local contacts

• The  Consular Services Charter  details what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.
• For full consular assistance, contact the  Australian Embassy in Brasilia  or the Australian Consulate-General in São Paulo .
• The Australian Consulate in Rio de Janeiro  does not provide notarial (document legalisation) services and only provides limited services, for example interviews for an Australian Passport.

Full travel advice:  Local contacts

Full advice

Violent crime.

Violent crime, often involving weapons, is common, especially in large cities. Most crime is opportunistic. Common examples which involve tourists include the theft of valuables at the beach or from bags and valuables snatched while sightseeing. Tourists have also been robbed at knife or gunpoint. Local authorities advise against taking valuables and passports to the beach. Carry a photocopy of your passport or another form of identity.

Muggings and other violent crimes are common in and around:

• tourist spots, hotels, nightclubs and bars
• historical centres
• public transport
• public beaches
• outdoor markets
• unregistered taxis
• ATMs and currency exchange facilities

Other common crimes include:

• home invasion
• food and drink spiking
• sexual assault
• kidnapping  and scams

In Rio de Janeiro, crime hotspots include:

• Copacabana Beach
• Ipanema Beach
• the Santa Teresa area
• the Lapa neighbourhood
• the Christ the Redeemer statue
• the Corcovado Trail

In São Paulo, crime hotspots are in the downtown area and around the historical centre of the city and include:

• around the São Paulo Cathedral
• Station of light (Estação da Luz)
• Princess Isabel Square
• Central market

In Brasilia, crime hotspots include the central bus station and two adjacent shopping centres. 

Crime levels in shanty towns, or 'favelas', and many satellite cities are especially high.

Crimes relating to drug trafficking and illicit goods are common along Brazil's western and northern border areas, posing a risk of violent crime to travellers. Affected areas include:

• the states of Amazonas, Acre, Rondônia, Mato Grosso, Roraima, Pará and Amapa
• river travel in the Amazon, particularly Itaquai, Japura and Rio Negro rivers and tributaries. 
• the tri-border area of Argentina, Brazil (Foz do Iguaçu city) and Paraguay

Your safety is your main priority. Don't chase after a perpetrator or resist. Criminals may be armed and, if challenged, they may respond with violence. They will often have accomplices nearby. If you're robbed, report it to the local police.

To protect yourself from violent crime:

• avoid crime hotspots, especially late at night
• stay alert in public places, especially where there are lots of people, including other tourists
• leave valuables and passport in a hotel safe
• keep mobile devices and other valuables out of sight
• keep your belongings and baggage close to you when you're outside
• lock the doors and windows of your accommodation, including balcony doors
• avoid going out alone, especially at night
• avoid isolated areas on the beach
• don't leave your luggage, food or drinks unattended
• never accept drinks, food, gum or cigarettes from people you've just met
• don't enter favelas, even with a tour group

If you're a victim of violent crime, including rape, seek immediate medical help. The risk of HIV/AIDS is high.

Female survivors of domestic violence or sexual assault can access a dedicated hotline that provides access to local support services, including police, by calling 180 or via the WhatsApp phone messaging application on +55 61 99610 0180.

Partying safely

Crime levels increase before and during festivals such as Carnaval, with tourists frequently being targeted.

Make sure you follow these tips: 

• watch out for drink spiking and know your alcohol limits
• don’t use drugs – penalties for drug offences in Brazil are high
• don’t drink and drive – penalties are severe for driving with a blood-alcohol reading over 0%
• keep your valuables out of sight, as petty crime, such as bag or phone snatching, is common
• be mindful of where you’re going, get recommendations from your hotel and plan your transport options in advance

More information:

Scammers take advantage of people looking for romantic partners, often via dating websites, apps or social media, by pretending to be prospective companions. Be wary of any online invitation you receive to travel to an unfamiliar location, especially if the location is changed at late notice and if someone is offering romance. The scammer may kidnap you and force you to transfer or withdraw money and then extort your loved ones for more money to secure your release.

Take caution when purchasing food and beverages from vendors, especially at the beach when paying by card. Confirm the price before and check the figure on the card machine is correct and hasn't been inflated. Don’t give your card to the vendor when making payments.

• Theft and robbery
• Scams that affect travellers

Cyber security 

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you’re connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth.

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions, or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media.

• Cyber security when travelling overseas

Kidnapping occurs across the world with political, ideological and criminal motives. Foreigners, including Australians, have been kidnapped overseas while travelling. Kidnaps can happen anywhere, anytime, including in destinations that are typically at lower risk. The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers.

Kidnappings occur in Brazil, and in some cases, individuals of perceived wealth are targeted. There have been instances of kidnapping-for-ransom, express, tiger, and virtual kidnappings. There were more express and tiger kidnaps in Brazil than in any other country worldwide during the first half of 2023.

Civil unrest and political tension

Large-scale protests are common. Public protests and events that draw large crowds can turn violent and authorities have used tear gas and other riot-control measures.

Demonstrations and protests often interrupt traffic and public transport.

During periods of unrest:

• avoid protests and rallies
• monitor the news for possible unrest and avoid those areas
• if a protest occurs, leave if it's safe to do so
• prepare for long waits and be ready to adjust your travel plans
• follow instructions from the local authorities

You should follow the instructions of local authorities and review our guidance on  staying safe when there are demonstrations .

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

Major events are attractive targets for terrorists.

To protect yourself from terrorism:

• be alert to possible threats
• report suspicious activity or items to police
• monitor the news for emerging threats
• take official warnings seriously
• follow the advice from local authorities

If there's an attack, leave the affected area straight away if you can.

Avoid the affected area after an attack in case there are secondary attacks.

Swimming safety

Many beaches, including in Rio de Janeiro and Fortaleza, have strong, dangerous rips.

Shark attacks are possible, especially at many north-eastern beaches. Obey warning signs.

Climate and natural disasters

Brazil experiences severe droughts and flooding.

If there's a  natural disaster :

• secure your passport in a safe, waterproof location
• keep in contact with your friends and family
• monitor the media and local sources
• follow the advice of local authorities

Register with the  Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System  to receive alerts on major disasters.

The wet season is from January to July in the north, November to March in the south and south-east and April to July in the north-east. Landslides, flooding and flash flooding can happen, especially in poorer urban areas. 

It's common for flooding and severe storms to damage transport infrastructure, including roads and bridges and can delay domestic and international flights. Monitor local media for weather advice and follow any instructions given by local authorities.

Staying safe in the heat

If you're travelling during extreme hot weather, plan your days to avoid being outside during the hottest part of the day. If you go out in the heat, rest often and stay in the shade as much as possible.

• Drink plenty of water. Even if you're not thirsty. Avoid alcohol
• Wear sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses
• Wear loose, lightweight, light-coloured clothing

Avoid strenuous outdoor activities such as hiking or biking in extreme hot weather, particularly if you're not usually active or used to high temperatures.

• Extreme hot weather

Travel insurance

Get comprehensive  travel insurance  before you leave.

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

Physical and mental health

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare, or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition.

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Medications

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Brazil. Take enough legal medicine for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a dated letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is
• your required dosage
• that it's for personal use

Health risks

Insect-borne diseases.

Insect-borne diseases are a serious risk in Brazil.  Yellow fever ,  dengue ,  malaria  and the  zika virus  are common. Other insect-borne diseases include:

• chikungunya
• leishmaniasis

You're most at risk during the wet season, in poorer urban areas or in regional areas where there are stagnant bodies of water, including the Pantanal or Amazon.

Take the following steps to avoid insect bites:

• cover exposed skin with light-coloured long-sleeved shirts and long pants
• use insect repellents. If you use both sunscreen and insect repellent, apply the sunscreen first and then the repellent
• treat your clothing and gear with insecticides
• sleep in screened or air-conditioned rooms. Use bed nets if you can't keep mosquitoes from coming inside the room
• consider taking anti-malarial medication
• Infectious diseases
• Immunisation  (Department of Health and Aged Care)

HIV/AIDS  is a significant risk. Take precautions if you're taking part in activities that put you at risk of infection, such as avoiding contact with contaminated objects and sharing personal items. Practice safe sex. 

Other health risks

There are recurrent  measles  outbreaks in Brazil. To protect yourself, stay up to date with your vaccinations, wash your hands regularly and avoid close contact with people who are sick and wild or domestic animals. 

Food-related, waterborne and other infectious diseases are common, including:

• bilharzia (schistosomiasis)

To protect yourself from illness:

• drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid raw and undercooked food, such as salads
• avoid contact with dogs and other mammals
• avoid swimming in fresh water

If you're bitten or scratched by an animal, get medical help immediately.

Make sure your vaccinations are up to date.

• Measles immunisation service

Medical care

Medical facilities.

You can access free health care at public hospitals and clinics in Brazil. The standard of emergency care is generally high but can vary, with access being more limited and of a lower standard outside of major urban areas.

When accessing public health care, you will likely experience overcrowding, longer wait times and more rudimentary facilities than you are accustomed to in Australia. It is very unlikely your treating doctor will speak English.

Private health care at hospitals and clinics in larger cities is often similar or superior to Australia. Doctors will often speak at least some English. Private medical care is very expensive, even more expensive if you need a medical evacuation. You may be charged upfront or be required to produce proof of insurance prior to receiving treatment.  

Public mental health care facilities are basic and overcrowded with a focus on more severe chronic and acute care, using a pharmaceutical-based treatment approach.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our  Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Brazil has severe penalties for possession of or trafficking illegal drugs. These include long sentences in local jails.

• Carrying or using drugs

You must always carry proof of identity. Carry a photocopy of your passport with some original identification, such as your driver's licence or another government-issued identity document. 

Don't drink and drive, penalties are severe for driving with a blood-alcohol level reading over 0%. 

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

• Staying within the law

Dual citizenship

Dual nationals must enter and exit Brazil using their Brazilian passport.

If you're a dual national male over 18, you'll have to do military service if you stay in Brazil for 12 months.

Contact a  Brazilian embassy or consulate  for advice.

• Dual nationals

Local customs

Same-sex relationships are legal but aren't always accepted. Avoid public displays of affection.

• Advice for LGBTI travellers

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

Currently, you don't need a visa to enter Brazil for:

• artistic or sports activities

You can stay in Brazil for 90 days over a 12-month period. This will be counted from the date of your first entry to Brazil. You can also extend your stay for another 90 days. If you require visa advice or assistance, you should contact the Brazilian Federal Police or a visa agency.

In other cases, apply for your visa through an  embassy or consulate of Brazil .

If you plan to live in Brazil, you'll need to get a visa before arrival. The Brazilian Government strongly enforces immigration and entry laws.

If you need a visa and arrive without one, authorities will send you back on the next available flight.

Entry and exit conditions may change at short notice. Contact an  embassy or consulate of Brazil  for details about visas, currency and customs. 

• Brazilian Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Travel via Chile

If you’re travelling via Chile, ensure you meet all current entry or transit requirements.

• Travel advice for Chile

Other formalities

Entry and exit stamps.

When you arrive, authorities will stamp your passport. This may be inspected by immigration authorities when you leave.

If you plan to leave Brazil and return during your trip, get an exit stamp in your passport from Brazilian immigration when you leave.

Yellow fever vaccination

You may need a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate to enter Brazil. Some airlines may want to see a copy when you depart to Australia or other countries.

Find out about returning to Australia  after exposure to yellow fever .

• Countries with a risk of yellow fever

Travel with children

Dual-national children must enter and exit Brazil using their Brazilian passports. 

Brazilian and dual-national children travelling in the company of only one parent must provide proof of consent to travel from the non-accompanying parent. If you can't produce proof of parental consent, local authorities will stop your children from departing Brazil. Unaccompanied children, or children travelling in the company of a non-parent, will require the consent of both parents.

Parental consent will usually be in the form of an observation note inserted into the child's Brazilian passport when it is issued by the Brazilian authorities. Alternatively, a Brazilian Embassy, Consulate or Juvenile Court can witness and notarise written parental consent or proof of residence outside Brazil.

If one or both parents are deceased, you'll require a death certificate notarised by a Brazilian Embassy, Consulate or Juvenile Court.

Parents of dual-national children should contact a Brazilian embassy or consulate for advice.

• Advice for people travelling with children

Authorities won't let you enter Brazil unless your passport is valid for at least 6 months from the date of your entry. This may apply even if you're just transiting.

Some immigration authorities and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Tourists can receive conflicting advice from different sources. You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting  a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the  Australian Passport Information Service .
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest  Australian embassy or consulate .

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier 

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can’t guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers.

• LGBTI travellers

The local currency is the Brazilian Real (BRL).

Declare amounts over USD 10,000 (or foreign currency equivalent) when you arrive and depart. This includes all forms of currency, not just cash. US dollars are the easiest to exchange. Credit cards are widely accepted. 

Ask your bank in Australia if your ATM card will work and if it has an affiliate bank in Brazil, as some local machines may be unreliable.

Credit card fraud and ATM tampering are widespread. Check your bank statements for unauthorised charges. To combat fraud and theft, many ATMs may limit the amount you can withdraw per day. 

Local travel

Remote areas.

You're at risk of becoming lost or injured while trekking in remote parts of Brazil. This includes the Amazon border regions and the Pantanal wetlands.

Use an experienced guide.

Driving permit

You can drive in Brazil for up to 180 days after your arrival, as long as you carry a valid Australian driver’s licence. It is also recommended that you carry a translation of your licence. After this period, you will need to obtain a local driver’s licence.

Road travel

You're more likely to die in a motor vehicle accident in Brazil than in Australia.

Hazards on the road include:

• aggressive driving
• poorly maintained roads
• large numbers of trucks and other slow vehicles on main routes

Traffic lights are often not obeyed, especially at night in larger cities. Don't assume cars will stop.

Carjacking and other vehicle-related crimes can occur. To stay safe while driving and guard against carjacking:

• keep vehicle doors locked, windows up, and valuables out of sight, even when moving
• make sure your GPS route isn't via a favela — if in doubt, ask your hotel or tour guide
• be alert to threats, including when stopped in traffic
• when stopped in traffic, including at traffic lights, be alert to threats and maintain extra distance from other cars.
• always approach your car with the keys ready
• don't stay in a parked vehicle

If you plan to drive:

• check you have enough insurance
• learn local traffic laws and practices
• don't drink and drive – penalties are severe for driving with a blood-alcohol reading over 0%
• guard against carjacking and other vehicle-related crimes

If you're in an accident:

• call 193 for the fire department if there are injuries
• call 190 for the police if there are no injuries
• Driving or riding

Motorcycles

Check if your insurance policy covers you when using a motorbike, quad bike or similar vehicle.

Always wear a helmet.

Registered taxis, rideshares such as Uber and the metro are generally safe. To reduce your risk:

• only use licensed taxis or rideshare booked through apps
• find out what transport services are available at the airport before you travel; most airports have licenced taxi desks inside the baggage reclaim areas and allow payment before travel
• follow signage or advice of authorities to official taxi services only
• always ask if the driver will use the meter, or agree on the fare before you get in a taxi
• ensure you enter the vehicle with the same plate number and name as shown in the app, and don't get into a taxi or rideshare if other passengers are already inside.
• avoid using motorcycle taxis

Public transport

Brazil has a well-developed network of inter-city buses, as well as metro systems in some of the major cities such as Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo.

Travel can be risky due to poor vehicle maintenance, local driving habits and petty crime.

Be alert when using public transport, especially during busy times and at night.

Criminals often work in gangs robbing people gathered in the same place. Public transport hubs can be hotspots.

People have reported hijacking and  robbery  of tour buses in recent years.

• Transport and getting around safely

Boat travel

International cruise liners visit Brazil.

Commercial riverboats are common in some parts. Keep your belongings close.

Tourist operators often use basic vessels for river outings in jungle areas.

You should always wear a life jacket. Boat accidents can occur.

Piracy happens, particularly in the north-east. Armed groups, including pirates and drug traffickers, travel rivers in the Amazonas state, where there is a low presence of police and local authorities. Cruise ships and lodges have been attacked. 

The International Maritime Bureau (IMB) issues  piracy reports  on its website.

• Going on a cruise
• Travelling by boat

Domestic and international flight delays are common. Airport strikes also occur.

Ask your travel agent if your itinerary allows for delays.

Be prepared for the possibility of extended waits at airports.

If you need to make or change airline bookings while in Brazil, ensure your payment method will be accepted.

Most major airlines, such as LATAM, Gol and Azul, accept international credit cards, although some may only accept them on their international websites. 

Travel and tour agents may also have restrictions. You may need to pay cash at the airline office or ask your Australian travel provider.

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check  Brazil's air safety profile  with the Aviation Safety Network.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

Operators may not speak English.

Tourist Police who speak English are available in Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo and at some major airports.

Rio de Janeiro Special Police Unit for Tourism Support Av. Afrânio de Melo Franco, 159 Leblon, Rio de Janeiro – RJ Phone: +55 21 2334 6802 or +55 21 2332 2924

São Paulo Special Police Unit for Tourism Support Rua da Cantareira, 390 Centro, São Paulo - SP Phone: +55 11 3257 4475

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the  Consular Services Charter  for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

For consular help, contact the  Australian Embassy in Brasilia , the  Australian Consulate-General in São Paulo  or the  Consulate in Rio de Janeiro . The Consulate in Rio de Janeiro does not provide notarial (document legalisation) services and only provides limited services, for example, interviews for an Australian Passport.

Australian Embassy, Brasilia

SES QD 801, Conjunto K, Lote 07 Brasilia - DF, Brazil ZIP/CEP: 70200-010

Phone: +55 61 3226 3111  Email:  [email protected] , or  [email protected]   Website:  brazil.embassy.gov.au   Facebook:  Embaixada da Austrália no Brasil   X:  @EmbAusBrasil Instagram: australianobrasil

Check the Embassy website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

Australian Consulate-General, São Paulo

Edificio Trianon Corporate – Cerqueira Cesar Alamenda Santos 700 9th Floor, Unit 92 São Paulo - SP, Brazil ZIP/CEP: 01418-100

Phone: +55 11 2112 6200 Email:  [email protected]

Australian Honorary Consulate, Rio de Janeiro

Av. Bartolomeu Mitre, 770 Leblon, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, Brazil ZIP/CEP: 22431-003

Phone: +55 21 3824 4624 Email: [email protected]  

The Australian Consulate in Rio de Janeiro does not provide notarial (document legalisation) services and only provides limited services, for example interviews for an Australian Passport.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

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Brazil Travel Restrictions

Traveler's COVID-19 vaccination status

Traveling from the United States to Brazil

Open for vaccinated visitors

COVID-19 testing

Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

Restaurants

Not required in public spaces.

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Can I travel to Brazil from the United States?

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Brazil.

Can I travel to Brazil if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Brazil without restrictions.

Can I travel to Brazil without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Brazil without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter Brazil?

Visitors from the United States are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering Brazil.

Can I travel to Brazil without quarantine?

Travelers from the United States are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in Brazil?

Mask usage in Brazil is not required in public spaces.

Are the restaurants and bars open in Brazil?

Restaurants in Brazil are open. Bars in Brazil are .

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Brazil travel advice

Latest updates: Editorial change.

Last updated: April 24, 2024 09:29 ET

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Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, brazil - exercise a high degree of caution.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Brazil due to high crime rates and regular incidents of gang-related and other violence in urban areas.

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Crime is a serious problem throughout Brazil. Crime rates are highest in urban centres, particularly in areas adjacent to impoverished neighbourhoods of:

• Rio de Janeiro
• São Paulo

Foreign tourists are most commonly affected by theft but incidents of violent crime have also occurred, due to the high prevalence of guns coupled with the willingness of criminals and police to resort to violence. To avoid becoming a victim of crime, be aware of your surroundings at all times and follow the security directives of local authorities.

Petty crime

Street crime, including pickpocketing, purse snatching and theft from cars, is common in Brazil’s large cities. Tourists are a favourite target.

Petty theft on buses and the metro is common. It is a significant concern in Recife.

Incidents of opportunistic crime increase significantly at large-scale sporting events, international conferences and during holidays such as the Carnival and New Year’s celebrations.

Flash mob robberies ( arrastões ) have occurred sporadically on Rio’s city beaches and in other crowded tourist areas. This type of crime involves a group of thieves (often young children and youth originating from nearby favelas) that swarm an area and snatch valuable items such as cash, jewellery and cell phones.

A common ruse used by criminals is the Good Samaritan scam, where a criminal offers to help a tourist who looks lost. If you are lost, go into a nearby business or hotel to ask for help.

• Ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
• Remain vigilant when visiting tourist destinations such as:
• outdoor markets
• hotel grounds
• bars and nightclubs
• airports and bus stations
• Avoid showing signs of affluence such as expensive jewellery, watches, clothing and bags
• Carry only small amounts of cash
• Keep cameras and portable electronic devices concealed
• Be aware of ploys to distract your attention
• Remain cautious with new acquaintances who ask for information or offer hospitality or assistance
• Book tours with reliable agencies

Violent crime

Armed robberies occur regularly, even during the day. They are a growing concern at restaurants, particularly in larger cities. Hold-ups can occur on Brazil’s trains. Assaults are frequently perpetrated in unofficial taxis.

Incidents of sexual assault against male and female foreigners have been reported, sometimes involving the use of sedatives.

Victims have been seriously injured or killed when resisting perpetrators, who may be armed or under the influence of drugs.

• Exercise a high degree of caution at all times
• Avoid travelling alone, especially at night
• Avoid parks or central (downtown) areas of major cities
• Avoid poorly lit and isolated streets
• Avoid walking on isolated and unsupervised beaches with poor visibility from the sidewalk
• If you are threatened by robbers, don’t resist.

Express kidnappings

The number of kidnappings in the Rio de Janeiro Metropolitan area has significantly increased since 2022.

Criminals may kidnap a victim for a few hours and force them to withdraw funds at an ATM for their release. Thieves may put drugs into food and drinks, temporarily incapacitating victims, who become quickly disoriented and are vulnerable to kidnapping.

• Use only a reputable taxi company or a trusted ride-sharing app
• Avoid showing signs of affluence, such using cell phones, headphones and wearing jewelry
• Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers
• Be wary of accepting these items from new acquaintances

Borders with Colombia and Venezuela

There is a concerning level of serious criminal activity by organized criminal groups along the border areas with countries bordering Brazil, particularly Colombia and Venezuela. Incidents of attacks on tourists and kidnapping have occurred. Be extremely cautious when crossing into bordering countries.

Vulnerable neighborhoods

Vulnerable neighborhoods (commonly referred to as “favelas”), are characterized by informal housing developments, crowded quarters, poorer conditions, and/or irregular construction.

Gang-related violence and organized crime is prevalent in these areas and police assistance is very limited.

Avoid renting accommodations in vulnerable neighborhoods, and travelling to these areas, even on a guided tour.

Police operations

Armed clashes and shootouts between police forces and alleged criminals regularly occur in vulnerable neighbourhoods. Police operations have led to retaliation by criminal gangs. Vulnerable neighbourhoods are located across major cities, as a result, there is an ongoing risk of violence spilling over to neighbouring areas, including affluent neighbourhoods and tourist destinations. There have been incidents of injuries and deaths as a result of stray bullets near, and in, vulnerable neighbourhoods.

Credit card and ATM fraud is a major problem. Be cautious when using debit or credit cards:

• pay careful attention when your cards are being handled by others
• use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Cybercrime is also a growing problem.  Perpetrators monitor social media sites and eavesdrop on your conversations when you are in the country.

• Do not discuss travel plans or any other personal information within earshot of strangers
• Be cautious when posting information on social media
• Be particularly vigilant in internet cafes

Overseas fraud

Pirate attacks and armed robbery against ships occur in coastal waters. Mariners should take appropriate precautions.

Live piracy report - International Maritime Bureau’s Piracy Reporting Centre

Demonstrations

Demonstrations take place regularly. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

Protests can cause delays on main roads, including to airports, such as to the Guarulhos International Airport i n São Paulo . Demonstrations tend to increase in frequency and intensity during major events that attract foreign visitors.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Women’s safety

Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse.

• Avoid travelling alone at night
• Avoid carrying purses

Advice for women travellers

Spiked food and drinks

Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances. These items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

The use of sedatives to facilitate robberies of personal belongings has been reported on beaches in Rio and in crowded restaurants in São Paulo.

• Never leave your belongings unattended on city beaches
• Ask for drinks coming from sealed bottles or cans instead of in plastics glasses
• In restaurants, avoid sitting close to the entrance

Coastal waters can be dangerous.

• Swim or surf in areas where lifeguards are located
• Avoid swimming where there are strong currents
• Be wary of sharks, especially in Brazil’s north east near Recife
• Follow the instructions and warnings of local authorities.

Robberies are frequent and occur in tourist destinations, including on hiking trails. Be especially cautious on the Corcovado trail in Rio, where several robberies have happened.

If you intend on trekking: 

• never do so alone
• always hire an experienced guide from a reputable company
• buy travel insurance
• ensure that your physical condition is good enough to meet the challenges of your activity
• ensure that you’re properly equipped and well informed about weather and other conditions that may pose a hazard
• inform a family member or friend of your itinerary, including when you expect to be back
• obtain detailed information on trekking routes before setting out
• ensure the trail doesn’t pass through a favela
• do not venture off marked trail

Adventure tourism

Amazon border regions and the Pantanal wetlands are largely uninhabited and dangerous areas.

Travel in these regions only with trained guides.

Public transportation

The subway systems in Rio and in São Paulo are generally safe during the day. Be extremely cautious using public transportation at night

There have been reports of theft and violence on city buses in Rio de Janeiro and near vulnerable neighbourhoods across the country, especially during rush hour.

Inter-city buses are generally reliable. Ensure that you use a reputable company before you book your travel.

Bus accidents occur regularly.

Major bus services charge fixed, pre-paid rates.

Do not use public vans.

Local law requires the use of the taxi meter to determine the legal fare. Adding surcharges to a fare is illegal.

Should taxi rates change and their taxi meters have not been adjusted, drivers may indicate these changes by showing an authorized paper with the new fares.

Many tourists hire “radio taxis”, also known as “commun taxis.” These taxis operate at a fixed price irrespective of the time of the day and the time it takes to arrive at your destination.

• Only use official taxis
• Upon arrival to Brazil, purchase your fare from licensed taxi offices in the airport arrival hall or near the taxi queues
• During your stay, use licensed taxis from taxi stands

Road safety

Brazil has one of the highest road accident rates in the world.

Road conditions are generally acceptable in large cities but badly maintained in the rest of the country. Poor signage and construction also pose a hazard.

Drivers do not respect traffic laws. Drivers are extremely aggressive and reckless and often drive at excessive speeds.  

At night, it is common for drivers to treat red lights as stop signs to protect against hold-ups at intersections. Pedestrians and motorists proceeding through green lights during these hours should be particularly cautious.

• Be careful when stopping on the side of any highway because of traffic
• Be careful of motorbikes when changing lanes
• When driving in the city, pay particular attention to your surroundings while waiting at traffic lights
• If you feel threatened at any time, do not stop
• If you are in a traffic accident, call the police immediately
• Never confront the driver of another vehicle

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Visitor visas

Effective April 10, 2025, Canadian passport holders will be required to obtain a visa to enter Brazil.

For more information, contact the nearest embassy or consulate of Brazil.

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Brazilian authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Brazil.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: not required for stays of up to 90 days Business visa: not required for stays of up to 90 days without remuneration Student visa: not required for stays of up to 90 days

Length of stay

A tourist stay can be granted for up to 90 days. The permitted length of stay for tourists is determined by the immigration officer upon entry.

If you intend to stay more than 90 days, you must obtain an extension from the Federal Police for a maximum stay of 180 days per period of 12 months.

To request a visa extension, you will have to: 

• request such an extension prior to the expiration of the authorized stay
• provide your detailed (long-form) birth certificate

In order for your Canadian long form birth certificate to be accepted in Brazil, it must be presented to the Brazilian Embassy or one of its consulates prior to departure from Canada. Neither the Embassy of Canada nor its consulates in Brazil can authenticate a Canadian birth certificate outside of Canada.

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• Zika virus: Advice for travellers - 31 August, 2023
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024
• Dengue: Advice for travellers - 8 April, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever   is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is a risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is recommended depending on your itinerary.
• Contact a designated Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre well in advance of your trip to arrange for vaccination.
• Discuss travel plans, activities, and destinations with a health care professional.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites.

About Yellow Fever Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada * It is important to note that   country entry requirements   may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest   diplomatic or consular office   of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

Malaria  is a serious and sometimes fatal disease that is caused by parasites spread through the bites of mosquitoes.   There is a risk of malaria in certain areas and/or during a certain time of year in this destination. 

Antimalarial medication may be recommended depending on your itinerary and the time of year you are travelling. Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic before travelling to discuss your options. It is recommended to do this 6 weeks before travel, however, it is still a good idea any time before leaving.    Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times:  • Cover your skin and use an approved insect repellent on uncovered skin.  • Exclude mosquitoes from your living area with screening and/or closed, well-sealed doors and windows. • Use insecticide-treated bed nets if mosquitoes cannot be excluded from your living area.  • Wear permethrin-treated clothing.    If you develop symptoms similar to malaria when you are travelling or up to a year after you return home, see a health care professional immediately. Tell them where you have been travelling or living. 

In this destination, rabies is carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. Rabies treatment is often available in this destination. 

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals). 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

There is a risk of schistosomiasis in this destination. Schistosomiasis is a parasitic disease caused by tiny worms (blood flukes) which can be found in freshwater (lakes, rivers, ponds, and wetlands). The worms can break the skin, and their eggs can cause stomach pain, diarrhea, flu-like symptoms, or urinary problems. Schistosomiasis mostly affects underdeveloped and r ural communities, particularly agricultural and fishing communities.

Most travellers are at low risk. Travellers should avoid contact with untreated freshwater such as lakes, rivers, and ponds (e.g., swimming, bathing, wading, ingesting). There is no vaccine or medication available to prevent infection.

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

There is a risk of chikungunya in this country.  The risk may vary between regions of a country.  Chikungunya is a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times. There is no vaccine available for chikungunya.

Cutaneous and mucosal   leishmaniasis   causes skin sores and ulcers. It is caused by a parasite spread through the bite of a female sandfly.

Risk is generally low for most travellers. Protect yourself from sandfly bites, which typically occur after sunset in rural and forested areas and in some urban centres. There is no vaccine or medication to protect against leishmaniasis.

Visceral  leishmaniasis   (or kala azar) affects the bone marrow and internal organs. It is caused by a parasite spread through the bite of a female sandfly. It can also be transmitted by blood transfusion or sharing contaminated needles. If left untreated it can cause death. Risk is generally low for most travellers. Protect yourself from sandfly bites, which typically occur after sunset in rural and forested areas and in some urban centres. There is no vaccine or medication to protect against leishmaniasis.

• In this country,   dengue  is a risk to travellers. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
• Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
• The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
• Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites . There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue.

Zika virus is a risk in this country. 

Zika virus is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can also be sexually transmitted. Zika virus can cause serious birth defects.

During your trip:

• Prevent mosquito bites at all times.
• Use condoms correctly or avoid sexual contact, particularly if you are pregnant.

If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, you should discuss the potential risks of travelling to this destination with your health care provider. You may choose to avoid or postpone travel. 

For more information, see Zika virus: Pregnant or planning a pregnancy.

American trypanosomiasis (Chagas disease)   is a risk in this country. It is caused by a parasite spread by infected triatomine bugs. The infection can be inactive for decades, but humans can eventually develop complications causing disability and even death.

Risk is generally low for most travellers. Protect yourself from triatomine bugs, which are active at night, by using mosquito nets if staying in poorly-constructed housing. There is no vaccine available for Chagas disease.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Medical services and facilities

Good health care is only available in major cities. Quality of care varies greatly throughout the country.

Private hospitals and clinics located in cities are often better staffed and equipped than public or rural facilities.

Some medical facilities in the state of Rio de Janeiro have closed or are providing limited services, due to lack of funding for their operations. Private hospitals remain operational.

Certain medications may not be available.

Physicians and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment.

Medical evacuation can be very expensive and you may need it in case of serious illness or injury.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe.

Avoid areas of known drug trafficking. Travellers should not, under any circumstances, carry any items for strangers, especially baggage and parcels.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Child sex tourism

Brazil is actively seeking to prevent child sex tourism. A number of tourists have been convicted of offences relating to the corruption of minors.

The legal age of consent in Brazil is 18. Prison sentences are severe.

Child Sex Tourism: It’s a Crime

Identification

You must carry photo identification, such as a passport or driver’s license. Keep a photocopy of your passport in a safe place, in case it’s lost or confiscated.

Not carrying identification can lead to problems and delays if stopped by police or in case of a medical emergency.

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Brazil.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Brazil, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and Brazil.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Brazil, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Brazilian court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Brazil to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
• Travelling with children
• The Hague Convention - Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre

The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.00% in Brazil. If the police suspect you of drinking and driving, they could confiscate your driver’s licence on the spot. If convicted, you can expect heavy fines and possible jail sentences.

You can drive in Brazil for up to 180 days with a valid Canadian driver’s licence. Obtain an official Portuguese translation of your Canadian driver’s licence to help when dealing with local authorities.

You should carry an international driving permit.

International Driving Permit

The currency is the real (BRL).

Canadian bank cards may not work in ATMs. They should have a pin with a maximum of 4 digits to work in Brazil.

Canadian dollars are not generally accepted, except by some exchange bureaus, most likely at airports. Do not exchange money on the street.

Carry small bills, as change is often unavailable for small transactions.

El Niño

The complex weather phenomenon called El Niño happens at irregular intervals of 2 to 7 years and can last 9 months to 2 years. El Niño generally generates droughts and heavy rainfalls, which could cause flooding, landslides, and mudslides, and could severely disrupt travel. Extreme droughts and heavy rains could limit access to food, drinking water, hygiene products, and medication. Severe weather could occur, such as:

• Below-average rainfall and droughts in the north and northeast
• Excessive rains in the south and southeast of the country
• Above-average temperatures in all regions

Keep informed of regional weather forecasts before and during your travels, and plan accordingly. Ensure you have adequate insurance to cover the consequences of such events, including the disruption of travel plans. 

Learn about El Niño

Rainy seasons

The rainy seasons extend from:

• January to July in the north
• October to April in the south and southeast
• April to July in the northeast

Flash floods can occur outside of the rainy season.

They can hamper overland travel, especially in rural areas. Roads may become impassable and bridges damaged. Travel conditions on mountain roads and on highways leading to beaches can be dangerous. Seasonal flooding can also reduce the provision of essential services. Power outages are frequent during the rainy season.

Avoid the affected areas, keep informed of regional weather forecasts and follow the instructions of local authorities.

• Weather warnings – National Institute of Meteorology (in Portuguese)
• Weather forecast – Climatempo (in Portuguese)
• More about hurricanes, typhoons, cyclones and monsoons

Landslides 

Landslides are becoming more common in Brazil and are the result of heavy rainfall. During heavy rainfall, landslides are more likely to occur.

Dry season   

Brasilia and the interior of the country experiences extreme dry periods between June and September.  Humidity levels can drop below 10% and heat levels rise significantly.

Stay informed of regional weather forecasts and plan accordingly.

A severe drought is affecting the south east of Brazil.

The water supply in São Paulo, including to the city of São Paulo, has been significantly affected. Some areas of São Paulo are experiencing water shortages, and the water quality has diminished.

Use only bottled water for drinking and cooking.

Bush and forest fires are common between May to September, particularly in Brasilia.

The air quality in areas near active fires may deteriorate due to heavy smoke. In case of a major fire:

• stay away from the affected area, particularly if you suffer from respiratory ailments
• follow the instructions of local emergency services personnel
• monitor local media for up-to-date information on the situation

Local services

In case of emergency, dial:

• police (military): 190
• medical assistance: 192
• firefighters: 193

Tourist police

• Rio de Janeiro: (21) 2332 2924 or 2334 6802
• São Paulo: (11) 3120 4447 or 3151 4167
• Salvador: (71) 3116-6817
• Recife: (81) 3322-4867

Consular assistance

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada to Brazil, in Brasilia, or the Consulate General of Canada in São Paulo or Rio de Janeiro and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

You may call the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa toll-free at 0 800 891-6614.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

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Guidelines for passengers on international flights

The Brazilian Health Surveillance Agency (Anvisa) recommends isolation of at least seven days for all passengers arriving from international destinations and quarantine (14 days) for passengers who are showing symptoms.

For those who intend to leave Brazil, the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that international travel be undertaken only in cases of effective necessity. For such cases, the WHO recommends checking with the Brazilian consular office or official websites of the destination country to see what measures are recommended by local health authorities, as well as adopting standard precautionary measures upon arrival abroad.

Main information for the air transport sector

The actions to combat COVID-19 adopted by the Ministry of Health and the Brazilian Health Surveillance Agency (Anvisa) gather recommendations for airport operators, airlines, and passengers on national and international flights.

Learn about the latest updates on travel restrictions related to COVID-19 .

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Brazil Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

• Packing List

After Your Trip

Be aware of current health issues in Brazil. Learn how to protect yourself.

Level 1 Practice Usual Precautions

• Updated   Oropouche Fever in South America April 24, 2024 There are outbreaks of Oropouche fever in parts of Brazil, Bolivia, and Peru. Travelers to affected areas should take steps to avoid bug bites. Destination List: Bolivia, Brazil, Peru
• Dengue in the Americas April 18, 2024 Dengue is a risk in many parts of Central and South America, Mexico, and the Caribbean. Some countries are reporting increased numbers of cases of the disease. Travelers to the Americas can protect themselves by preventing mosquito bites. Destination List: Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, including the Galápagos Islands, French Guiana (France), Guadeloupe, Guatemala, Martinique (France), Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Turks and Caicos Islands (U.K.), Uruguay

⇧ Top

Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Brazil.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to Brazil. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to Brazil.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

CDC recommends that travelers going to certain areas of Brazil take prescription medicine to prevent malaria. Depending on the medicine you take, you will need to start taking this medicine multiple days before your trip, as well as during and after your trip. Talk to your doctor about which malaria medication you should take.

Find  country-specific information  about malaria.

Malaria - CDC Yellow Book

Considerations when choosing a drug for malaria prophylaxis (CDC Yellow Book)

Malaria information for Brazil.

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Rabid dogs are commonly found in Brazil. However, if you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other mammal while in Brazil, rabies treatment is often available. 

Consider rabies vaccination before your trip if your activities mean you will be around dogs or wildlife.

Travelers more likely to encounter rabid animals include

• Campers, adventure travelers, or cave explorers (spelunkers)
• Veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers handling animal specimens
• Visitors to rural areas

Since children are more likely to be bitten or scratched by a dog or other animals, consider rabies vaccination for children traveling to Brazil. 

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

Yellow Fever

Recommended for travelers ≥9 months old going to the states of Acre, Amapá, Amazonas, Distrito Federal (including the capital city, Brasília), Espírito Santo,* Goiás, Maranhão, Mato Grosso, Mato Grosso do Sul, Minas Gerais, Pará, Paraná,* Piauí, Rio de Janeiro (including the city of Rio de Janeiro and all coastal islands),* Rio Grande do Sul,* Rondônia, Roraima, Santa Catarina,* São Paulo (including the city of São Paulo and all coastal islands),* Tocantins, and designated areas of Bahia*. Vaccination is also recommended for travelers going to Iguaçu Falls. Not recommended for travel limited to any areas not listed above, including the cities of Fortaleza and Recife *In 2017, in response to a large YF outbreak in multiple eastern states, CDC expanded its vaccination recommendations for travelers going to Brazil. The expanded YF vaccination recommendations for these states are preliminary. For updates, refer to the CDC Travelers’ Health website.

Yellow Fever - CDC Yellow Book

• Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil

Clinical Guidance

Schistosomiasis

• Wading, swimming, bathing, or washing in contaminated freshwater streams, rivers, ponds, lakes, or untreated pools.

Avoid bug bites

Chagas disease (american trypanosomiasis).

• Accidentally rub feces (poop) of the triatomine bug into the bug bite, other breaks in the skin, your eyes, or mouth
• From pregnant woman to her baby, contaminated blood products (transfusions), or contaminated food or drink.
• Avoid Bug Bites

Chagas disease

• Mosquito bite

Leishmaniasis

• Sand fly bite
• An infected pregnant woman can spread it to her unborn baby

Airborne & droplet

• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Brazil, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Brazil. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Some diseases in Brazil—such as dengue, Zika, leishmaniasis, and Chagas disease—are spread by bugs and cannot be prevented with a vaccine. Follow the insect avoidance measures described above to prevent these and other illnesses.

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Brazil include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Schistosomiasis, a parasitic infection that can be spread in fresh water, is found in Brazil. Avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Brazil’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Malaria is a risk in some parts of Brazil. If you are going to a risk area, fill your malaria prescription before you leave, and take enough with you for the entire length of your trip. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking the pills; some need to be started before you leave.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Brazil may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in Brazil, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

For information traffic safety and road conditions in Brazil, see Travel and Transportation on US Department of State's country-specific information for Brazil .

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

To call for emergency services while in Brazil, dial 192 for an ambulance, 193 for the fire department, and 190 for the police. Write these numbers down to carry with you during your trip.

Learn as much as you can about Brazil before you travel there. A good place to start is the country-specific information on Brazil from the US Department of State.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Brazil for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.

Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Entry requirements

This advice reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Brazil set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Brazilian Embassy in the UK .

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Brazil.

Passport validity requirements

To enter Brazil, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive.

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Visa requirements

You can visit Brazil without a visa for up to 90 days for tourism.

If you want to extend your tourist visa, contact the Federal Police (in Portuguese) before your visa expires.

For more information about visas, contact the Brazilian Consulate in London .

If you overstay your visa, you’ll face a daily fine. You have the option to pay this fine either when you leave Brazil or during your next visit. You will not be allowed to re-enter Brazil if you do not pay the fine. Overstaying your visa will result in a 6-month ban from re-entering the country.

Make sure you get your passport stamped.

Make sure the border control officer puts a stamp in your passport. If it is not stamped, you may be fined when you leave.

Read about passport stamping if you live in Brazil  (in Portuguese).  

At Brazil border control, you must be able to show:

• information about the purpose of your visit
• evidence you have enough money for your whole stay
• details of your accommodation
• evidence of return or onward travel

British-Brazilian dual nationals

Brazilian immigration authorities often require dual British-Brazilian nationals visiting Brazil to travel on Brazilian (rather than British) passports.

Travelling with children

Children with dual british-brazilian citizenship.

British-Brazilian dual nationals under the age of 18 who are travelling without all parents or legal guardians need authorisation from all parents or legal guardians to travel in Brazil or leave the country.

If they travel with only one parent (or guardian) or without any parent, they must have 2 original written authorisations from all parents or guardians. Read more about the formal travel authorisation process for Brazilian minors and the frequently asked questions .

You must show this permission when the under-18 leaves Brazil. One copy will be kept by the Federal Police inspection agent, together with a copy of the under-18’s identification document, and the other must stay with the under-18 or the adult accompanying them on the trip.

Children who are not dual British-Brazilian nationals

The Federal Police have sometimes delayed the travel of non-Brazilian under-18s who travel without authorisation from both parents. Families of non-Brazilian under-18s travelling through Brazil without one or both parents should follow the instructions for dual British-Brazilian under-18s. Make sure the under-18 or their travelling companion also carries the original or notarised copy of the under-18’s birth certificate. Contact the Brazilian Consulate in London for more information.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Brazil guide . Depending on your circumstances, this may include a yellow fever vaccine.

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Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Guarulhos International Airport Guide

Public Transportation

Best Hotels

Top Things to Do

Coolest Attractions

Best Museums

Where to Shop

Sao Paulo's Architecture

Food to Try

Best Restaurants

Nightlife Guide

Your Trip to Sao Paulo: The Complete Guide

On the Brazilian landscape, one city stands above the rest in gastronomy, shopping, nightlife, street art, and museum offerings: Sao Paulo. Here foodies come to try all the flavors of the regions of Brazil, dishes of its diasporas, and experimental projects by Michelin-starred chefs. Over 50 shopping malls, the most famous high fashion street in South America, and 60 specialized shopping streets for everything from electronics to wedding dresses draw enthusiastic buyers to its stores every day. Paulistinos (the city’s residents) party literally until dawn in its baladas (dance bars) and along the Baixo Augusta. During the day, world-famous museums like the Museu de Arte de Sao Paulo opens its doors, while cultural centers like the SESC Pompéia offer free activities for residents and tourists alike. Stroll through the graffiti art of Beco do Batman or see Niemeyer’s massive Modernist building Edifício Copan. Everything can be found here, except a beach, but even those aren't too far away.

Planning Your Trip

• Best Time to Visit : Come to Sao Paulo in the spring (September to November). During this shoulder season, days are long, nights are cool, and the city hosts weeks-long events focused on food, art, and entertainment.
• Language: Portuguese  
• Currency: Brazilian real  
• Getting Around : The Metro, Sao Paulo’s public transit system, will be the easiest and one of the cheapest ways to travel throughout the city; download the Moovit app for simple navigation in English. Avoid renting a car as traffic can be horrendous—especially for those not familiar with the roads. Instead, take an Uber or taxi, both of which are plentiful.
• Travel Tip: Most businesses accept credit and debit cards. Except for buying tickets to ride the Metro and in certain markets, you won’t need cash unless you prefer using it over your card.

TripSavvy / Jamie Ditaranto

Things to Do

Sao Paulo has bangin’ nightlife, world-class shopping and museums, and live music throughout its streets. See art and learn the history of Brazil, soccer, and the Portuguese language in the city's museums, or cozy up with a good read in one of its many bookstores. Behold the structures of Modernist architects like the massive Edifício Copan and drum-factory-turned-cultural center SESC Pompéia, or walk down Paulista Avenue on a Sunday afternoon when it becomes a giant pedestrian thoroughfare. Sao Paulo has the largest city helicopter fleet in the world, so hire a chopper for an aerial view.

• Wander Mercado Municipal sampling mangosteen, persimmon, dragon fruit, and other exotic produce from its 300 stalls. (Samples are free with no obligation to buy.) Afterwards, climb the stairs to the restaurant portion of the market and order a mortadella sandwich.
• Spend the day at Ibirapuera Park museum hopping between the Afro Brasil Museum , Museum of Modern Art , and Museum of Contemporary Art . Walk along the park paths, rent a bike, or sunbathe with Paulistinos in its extensive green fields. See buildings designed by Oscar Niemeyer, like the Oca, and visit the spaceship-shaped planetarium. 
• Visit the Museu de Arte de Sao Paulo (MASP) to see the genius of architect Lina Bo Bardi and art work spanning continents and centuries. Works by Picasso and Candido Portinari hang in glass frames in an open floor plan, removing any barriers from the viewers and the art. Check out what’s happening in the pavilion beneath the museum, which acts as a meeting point for impromptu concerts, fairs, and protests.

Explore more attractions with our full-length articles on the top things to do in Sao Paulo , important places to visit in Sao Paulo , and Sao Paulo's best museums .

Where to Eat and Drink

Sao Paulo has one of the most famous (and delicious) gastronomy scenes in the world, known for both its fine dining and street food. Regional dishes from all over Brazil, from the moqueca (seafood stew) of the north to the meaty farofa-topped barreado of the south, can be found here. Bite into a warm, crunchy coxinha full of shredded chicken; pop a cheesy, chewy pão de queijo; or try a flakey pastel. Order a mini-feast of feijoada from any neighborhood restaurant on a weekend, and after you’ve slept it off, refresh your pallet with an ice-cold açai bowl. In addition to offering food from all over the world due to its strong immigrant population, the city is also home to A Casa do Porco , an experimental pork restaurant with onsite butcher shop, and D.O.M ., which highlights regional ingredients from throughout Brazil using French, Italian, and Indigenous cooking methods.

Paulistinos love a cold, creamy chopp (draft beer), especially on weekend afternoons at botecas (neighborhood bars), which are plentiful in the Vila Madelena neighborhood. For something harder, the national liquor is cachaça, a sweet spirit made from sugarcane juice and the base ingredient in another famous Brazilian beverage: the caipirinha. Most bars will have these drinks, but to check out the microbrewery scene, head to a craft beer bar like Emporio Alto dos Pinheiros , one of the pioneers of the craft beer movement in Brazil.

According to Sao Paulo Turismo S/A, the official tourism and events company of the city of Sao Paulo, the tap water is drinkable  . However, it’s recommended to have filtered water instead. You can easily find mineral water at supermarkets, restaurants, coffee shops, and bars.

Explore our articles on the best restaurants in Sao Paulo , the top foods to try in Sao Paulo , and nightlife in Sao Paulo .

Where to Stay

The art-filled Vila Madelena neighborhood offers well-priced Airbnbs and hostels, colorful streets of graffiti murals, third wave coffee shops, local bars, and friendly bohemian artists. Staying along Avenida Paulista in neighborhoods like Bela Vista will give you easy access to the MASP and the city’s best nightlife strip on Baixo Augusta. Centro might be a little rough, but bursts with personality and contains historic sites like Edifício Copan, Mercado Municipal, and Cathedral Sé. Stylish and LGBTQ-friendly Higienópolis is food heaven with swanky hotels and one of the city’s best malls, all only a mile or two from Avenida Paulista. Further out, Brooklin Novo offers luxury hotels and shopping, good for business travelers wanting to relax. Pinheiros has cultural centers with fascinating free activities, art galleries, funky boutiques, and a park great for midday lounging.

Check out our recommendations of the best hotels in Sao Paulo .

Getting There

Sao Paulo’s main airport is Guarulhos International Airport (GRU) , where most international flights will land. Two other airports service the city: Viracopos Airport (VCP) in Campinas for flights in Latin America and Congonhas Airport (CGH) for domestic flights. The Tietê Bus Terminal links Sao Paulo with all major cities in Brazil via clean, comfortable, and cheap long-distance buses.

Culture and Customs

Pickpocketing is a problem in Sao Paulo, especially in crowded, touristy areas. Be aware of your belongings, especially if going to large markets or festivals. While some areas are fine to walk at night, others are not. Check with your accommodation about the safety of where you are staying, and when in doubt, this issue is easily remedied by calling an Uber. Walking during the day throughout most of the city is safe.

This is not the laid-back beach side Brazil you would find in Rio or Florianopolis. Sao Paulo is the financial center of Brazil and one of the largest cities in the world. Expect a much faster pace of life, and people letting loose at night and on the weekends after long work days. When dining out, service will generally be fast, and the tip is already included.

Money Saving Tips

• If you want quick, cheap food with lots of variety, go to a comida por quilo restaurant. Fill your plate from the buffet, then take it to the cashier to weigh it before you eat. You pay by weight rather than a set price, and it usually ends up costing the equivalent of a few dollars.
• Go to the top of Edifício Copan for free by lining up outside gate F any day at 1:30 p.m. You’ll be let in at 2 p.m. to head to the roof where you can see panoramic views of Sao Paulo.
• Take the Metro or a bus to the airport instead of an Uber or taxi. Give yourself a time cushion in case the transfers take a while.
• The 99 Taxi app is usually a little cheaper than Uber and just as reliable.
• Many of the museums like MASP and Pinoteca have free admission days. Others, like MIS and the Museu Afro Brasil, are fee all the time.
• For free, quality entertainment, go to a centro culturai (cultural center). Sao Paulo contains about 40 cultural centers showcasing exhibitions, theater, art, concerts, debates, and more.
• Check out Mamba Negra free music parties in abandoned buildings throughout the city.
• Visit outside of high season (December to March) for cheaper accommodation.

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Brazil Entry Requirements / Covid Restrictions

Update 05/21/2023, end of covid regulations in brazil.

The Brazilian government has decided to end any restrictions on entry into its territory related to the COVID-19 pandemic.

As of May 21, 2023, there are no longer sanitary restrictions related to Covid-19 for travelers to enter Brazil .

With the end of the health emergency of international importance announced by the World Health Organization (WHO), Brazil no longer requires the presentation of vaccines or tests to enter the country .

In this Article we publish the official and updated information from the Brazilian government on the requirements for entry and the restrictions imposed as a reaction to the Covid19 pandemic.

We monitor the official text and will update when appropriate.

Click to see latest decree (12/9/2022) migratory restrictions Brazil (Portuguese)

Requirements to enter Brazil by Air

• Vaccinated travelers must present proof of vaccination
• Travellers who are not fully vaccinated, Brazilians and foreigners residing in Brazilian territory, those who have a health condition that contraindicates vaccination (verified by a medical report), those who are not eligible for vaccination due to age or come from countries with low vaccination coverage: they must present to the airline, before boarding, the document that certifies the performance of a test for Covid-19, with a negative or non-detectable result, such as an antigen test or RT- Laboratory PCR performed one day before the time of shipment

Foreigners who are not fully vaccinated are prevented from entering the national territory (with exceptions).

Requirements to enter Brazil by land

Brazilians and foreigners must present proof of vaccination at ground control points. The receipt must also be presented, as a condition for boarding, to those responsible for international road and rail passenger transport services.

They are exempt from presenting proof of vaccination in ground transportation:

• Brazilians and foreigners residing in Brazilian territory who are not fully vaccinated;
• Freight transport worker under the conditions provided by the ordinance;
• trafficking of border residents in twin cities
• traveler in a situation of vulnerability (humanitarian crisis);
• Coming from countries with low vaccination coverage;
• not eligible for vaccination based on age; traveler with a health condition that contraindicates vaccination.

Requirements to enter Brazil by sea

Vaccinated: the traveler of international origin, Brazilian or foreign, must present proof of vaccination, printed or electronic, to the operator or person in charge of the vessel, before boarding.

Vaccinated travelers are exempt from presenting a document proving a Covid-19 test, with a negative or undetectable result.

Travellers who are not fully vaccinated, as long as they are Brazilians and foreigners residing in Brazilian territory, those who have a health condition that contraindicates vaccination (verified by a medical report), those who are not eligible for the vaccination due to age or come from countries with low vaccination coverage: they must present to the operator or person in charge of the vessel, before disembarking in the country, proof of having carried out a Covid-19 test, with a negative or non-detectable result, as antigen test or laboratory RT-PCR performed one day prior to touchdown.

The conditions for the embarkation and disembarkation of passengers and crew members on cruise ships and for the embarkation and disembarkation of cargo ship crew members are defined in the regulations issued by the National Sanitary Surveillance Agency:

Rules applicable to children

• Vaccinated children are covered by the general rules of the ordinance.
• Unvaccinated children: under twelve years of age, traveling accompanied are exempt from presenting detection tests for infection by the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus (covid-19), provided that all companions present documents with a negative laboratory result or undetectable RT-PCR or antigen test, performed up to one day before the time of departure/entry into the country.
• Those between the ages of two and twelve, who travel unaccompanied, must present documents with a negative or non-detectable result, such as the RT-PCR or antigen type laboratory test, carried out within one day before the time of departure/entry into the country. Children under the age of two do not need to submit proof. Information

About the Vaccination Proof:

• must be printed or electronic; (Proofs that are exclusively in QR-CODE format will not be accepted);
• must contain the name of the traveler, the commercial name or the name of the manufacturer of the vaccine, the number(s) of the lot(s) of the dose(s) applied( s) and the date(s) of application of the dose(s);
• Vaccines approved by Anvisa, the World Health Organization (WHO) or the authority of the country in which the traveler was immunized are valid;
• The application of the single dose or the last dose of the primary vaccination schedule must have occurred at least 14 days before the departure date. * Documents issued abroad must be presented in Portuguese, Spanish or English.

Requirements Updated Sep 12, 2022

Latest Decree  Sep 12 , 2022

Official Source (In Portuguese): https:/ /www.gov.br/anvisa/pt-br/assuntos/paf/coronavirus/viajantes/regras-para-entrada-portaria

Click to see latest decree (12/9/2022) migratory restrictions Brazil  (Portuguese)

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With Tears, Hugs and Balloons, U.S. Allows Vaccinated Foreign Travelers to Enter

On Monday, after more than 18 months, restrictions that kept families separated and cost the global travel industry hundreds of billions of dollars were lifted.

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By Ceylan Yeginsu ,  Heather Murphy and Concepción de León

The United States reopened its borders for vaccinated foreign travelers on Monday, ending more than 18 months of restrictions on international travel that separated families and cost the global travel industry hundreds of billions of dollars in tourism revenue.

Before dawn on Monday, thousands of excited passengers flocked into Heathrow Airport for the first flights to the United States out of London. They were welcomed by dozens of airline staff who beamed and waved American flags as they ushered guests toward designated areas for documentation and security checks.

“New York, baby, here we come,” shouted one passenger as he high-fived a Virgin Atlantic staff member who was dressed as Elvis Presley. “God bless America,” yelled another.

The policy shift has come in time for the holiday season, when the beleaguered tourism industry is eagerly awaiting an influx of international visitors, especially in popular big-city destinations. Eager to make up for lost time, tourists traveling on Monday had packed itineraries, from Broadway shows in New York and family days at Disney World in Florida to bingo nights in Arizona.

In New York alone, the absence of tourists in 2020 resulted in a loss of $60 billion in revenue and wiped out 89,000 jobs across retail, arts, culture, hotels and transportation, the state comptroller found. Though travelers from abroad account for just one-fifth of the city’s visitors, they generate 50 percent of the city’s tourism spending, according to NYC & Company , the city’s tourism promotion agency.

Towns along the borders with Mexico and Canada also suffered under the restrictions, which shut down land crossings to “nonessential” traffic and cost businesses millions of dollars. As a steady stream of traffic made its way through the San Ysidro, Calif., border crossing between Mexico and the United States on Monday morning, Todd Gloria, the mayor of San Diego, said, “This is a great day for Tijuana, for San Diego, and for the entire binational region.” Traffic at the Canadian border was less robust. Canadians returning to their country must take an expensive P.C.R. test, which makes going to the United States for a quick shopping trip impractical.

Monday was a day for grandparents to hold their grandchildren for the first time, for couples who had to make do with virtual interactions for almost 18 months to kiss and for families toting balloons, bouquets and welcome signs to gather eagerly in airport waiting areas.

Among the first passengers arriving from Paris to Kennedy International Airport on Monday was Olivier Krug, the director of the Krug Champagne house. He had rushed to book as soon as the travel restrictions were lifted to attend a Champagne festival in New York, he said.

“I’m coming to represent my Champagne,” he said. “It’s not the same when you can’t clink your glasses together.”

Under the new rules, fully vaccinated travelers are allowed to enter the United States if they can show proof of vaccination and a negative coronavirus test taken within three days before departure. Unvaccinated Americans and children under 18 are exempt from the requirement, but must take a coronavirus test within 24 hours of travel.

While the new entry requirements ease travel for vaccinated travelers, they restrict people who were previously permitted to visit the United States, including unvaccinated travelers from Japan, Singapore, Mexico and other countries. Those who have received vaccines that have not been approved by the World Health Organization for emergency use, like the Russian Sputnik V, will also not be permitted to enter.

The extended ban on travel from 33 countries — including European Union members, China, Iran and India — decimated the U.S. economy’s tourism sector and resulted in losses of nearly $300 billion in visitor spending and more than 1 million American jobs, according to the U.S. Travel Association, an industry group.

The reopening gave those in tourism-dependent industries a sense of hope. The chef Daniel Boulud, who owns several restaurants in New York City, said customers from overseas had started to call for reservations or to get placed on a waiting list before the ban officially lifted.

Few sectors of New York City’s economy lean more heavily on foreign tourists for revenue than the arts, and the city’s cultural institutions are more than eager for them to return.

“We’re waiting with arms open,” said Victoria Bailey, the executive director of the Theater Development Fund, the nonprofit that operates the TKTS discount ticket booth, where about 70 percent of the tickets are bought by tourists and roughly half of those sales are to foreign travelers.

According to the Broadway League, the industry’s trade association, in the 2018-19 season, the last full season before the pandemic, 19 percent of Broadway patrons were from countries other than the United States.

Ken Weine, a spokesman for the Metropolitan Museum of Art, said that before the pandemic, international travelers accounted for about a third of the museum’s visitors; without them, the museum has hit something of a “ceiling” on attendance, he said. And Mr. Weine noted that although New Yorkers may pay what they wish when they visit the Met, other visitors, including foreign tourists, must pay $25.

Many of the airplanes arriving in the United States on Monday were full of travelers reuniting with family and friends after a span of almost 600 days. At Miami International Airport, a major hub for travel to and from South and Central America, Natalia Vitorini, a 28-year-old student living in Miami, met her parents on Concourse D after they got off the morning’s first flight from São Paulo, Brazil. She had her 3-week-old son in a stroller.

Her mother, Débora Vitorini, 56, who works in the biomedical industry in São Paulo, bought her ticket within hours of the announcement of the reopening date. She and her husband, Sergio, arrived a little after 6 a.m.

The last time they had seen their daughter was in March 2020. Natalia Vitorini got pregnant earlier this year, and gave birth to her son a few weeks ago. “I was waiting for the border to open so my mom can come to see my baby,” she said.

Some of the reunions were hard-earned. Jolly Dave’s odyssey started last weekend, with a seven-hour bus ride from the Indian state of Gujarat to Mumbai. There she took a three-hour flight to New Delhi, then boarded a 16-hour flight to Newark Liberty International Airport.

Ms. Dave, 30, was traveling to meet her boyfriend, Nirmit Shelat, 31, whom she had not seen since last winter, when she had returned to Gujarat, their home state, expecting to stay for a few months. But then India experienced a devastating coronavirus surge, and her travel was restricted.

On Monday morning, Mr. Nirmit was waiting for her in Newark’s Terminal B.

“My Lady Luck is back,” he said as he waited. “You can make daily calls, stay connected by FaceTime, but you want to experience her fingers, her touch, her kiss. She told me she wants to break the Apple wall.”

They saw each other from down a hallway, and embraced upon reuniting. She kept her mask on as they kissed. He grew emotional.

“The Apple wall is broken,” she said.

Airlines saw a big spike in online searches and ticket bookings for international travel — particularly from Europe and Latin America — after the administration announced in October that travel would restart on Nov. 8.

American Airlines said bookings over the three days after the announcement were up 66 percent for flights between Britain and the United States, 40 percent for those from Europe and 74 percent for Brazil, compared to a similar period a week earlier. United Airlines said that it sold more tickets for trans-Atlantic flights in the days after the announcement than during a similar period in 2019, a first since the pandemic began. Delta Air Lines said many of its international flights on Monday were fully booked.

Hotels across the country, particularly those in cities, also felt the impact of the reopening. Hyatt , the hotel group, said that approximately 50 percent of its bookings by international travelers to the United States for the week of Nov. 8 came after the opening date was announced in mid-October, with travelers flocking to top cities like Los Angeles, New York and Miami.

According to Expedia, hotels in downtown Los Angeles saw a 17.7 percent increase in international bookings over the last week compared to the previous month. The city is projecting an additional 1 million visitors and $1 billion in revenue as a result of the country reopening to vaccinated international visitors.

There had been concerns about long lines at the airports given the additional paperwork required to fly. At Heathrow, long lines quickly formed at check-in counters as passengers fumbled through their phones and printed-out documents, though there were no major delays.

“Goodness, I feel so nervous,” said Bernadette Sumners, 56, from Stratford-on-Avon, England, who was taking her first flight since the start of the pandemic to visit her daughter in Oregon and her son in New York.

“There are so many things to remember and organize,” she said as she sat on a bench in the departure terminal, refreshing her email feed every few minutes as she waited for her negative coronavirus test result. “It’s very stressful, but I know it’s going to be worth it when I see my children and meet my grandchildren,” she said, her eyes welling up with tears.

Reyna Martinez, from Ensenada, in Mexico, crossed the border from Tijuana into California with her daughter for the first time in two years. She said she used to cross at least four times a year to see friends or go shopping. On Monday she was on her way to Long Beach, Calif., to visit a friend. “Who knows if they might close it again,” she said, speaking in Spanish. “I was worried if I didn’t go now, I might miss out. So here we are.”

In Canada, Judy and Wayne Peters were packing up their cobalt gray BMW for their 1,520-mile journey south from Kelowna, British Columbia. They own a manufactured home in an upscale R.V. park in Yuma, a city halfway between Phoenix and San Diego.

Hundreds of thousands of Canadian “snowbirds,” typically retirees, flock to the United States each year to spend the winter.

Now that pandemic travel restrictions have been lifted, thousands are already on their way to Florida, Arizona and California, among other warm destinations, with campers and boats in tow.

“It was a mild winter here, so that worked out in our favor,” said Mr. Peters, 69. “But we are looking forward to being in a nice warm environment again, with our American friends.”

Miriam Jordan, Matt Stevens, Niraj Chokshi, Kevin Armstrong, Michael Paulson and Max Rivlin-Nadler contributed reporting.

An earlier version of this story referred imprecisely to the recent increase of hotel bookings by international visitors in Downtown Los Angeles and misidentified the source of that data. There was a 17.7 percent increase in bookings for all hotels in the area, not at the JW Marriott hotel alone.   The data was provided by the online travel agent Expedia, not the JW Marriott.

How we handle corrections

Ceylan Yeginsu is a London-based reporter. She joined The Times in 2013, and was previously a correspondent in Turkey covering politics, the migrant crisis, the Kurdish conflict, and the rise of Islamic State extremism in Syria and the region. More about Ceylan Yeginsu

Heather Murphy is a reporter on the Travel desk. She welcomes tips, questions and complaints about traveling during the pandemic. More about Heather Murphy

Concepción de León is a travel reporter based in New York. More about Concepción de León

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São Paulo Travel Guide

Last Updated: February 6, 2024

A lot of travelers skip São Paulo when visiting Brazil , choosing to go to Rio de Janeiro and other parts of the country instead.

This sprawling metropolis shouldn’t be skipped.

Originally inhabited by the indigenous Tupi people, Portuguese Jesuit priests colonized the area in 1554. The settlement remained small until the 18th-century gold rush in the northern region of Minas Gerais, during which explorers passed through São Paulo on their way to seek their fortunes. After the gold ran out, sugar and coffee, grown on plantations fueled by the forced labor of enslaved Africans, became central to São Paulo’s development as an economic center.

Today, São Paulo is a major cosmopolitan city and cultural hub that is home to over 22 million people, including the largest Italian, Japanese, and Portuguese diasporas in the world. Each neighborhood is like its own micro-city, from Liberdade (São Paulo’s Japantown) to bohemian Vila Madalena.

This travel guide to São Paulo can help you save money and stay safe, as well as ensure that you have a wonderful visit to this Latin American megalopolis.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Rio de Janeiro

Top 5 Things to Do in São Paulo

1. Take a free walking tour

Free walking tours help you get the lay of the land on your first few days in a destination. Since São Paulo is so big, taking a tour with a local guide can help orient you. São Paulo Free Walking Tour is an excellent option, with tours that explore four different areas: Old Downtown, Vila Madalena, Ibirapuera Park, and Paulista Ave. Check the website before turning up as sometimes certain routes are closed due to the many festivals that occur in the city. (And remember to always tip your guide at the end!)

2. Stroll through Ibirapuera Park

At 158 hectares (390 acres), Ibirapuera is the largest urban park in South America. It’s the perfect place for a stroll or bike ride, lounging around, or watching the locals playing footvolley (a uniquely Brazilian sport that’s a mix of soccer and volleyball). Stop in at the Museu Afro Brasil (Afro Brazilian Museum, located within the park) or the MAC (Museum of Contemporary Art, just outside the park).

3. Watch, listen, and dance to samba

Samba is an institution in Brazil. Each city and region has its own variation on this Afro-Brazilian style of dance and music, and São Paulo is no different. To see some local samba, head to Bar do Baixo, Bar Samba, Vila do Samba, or Casa Barbosa. And if you’re in town in January and February leading up to Carnival, you can watch samba schools practice their performances. During Carnival, these schools all compete at the Sambódromo to try to win the award for best samba school of the year.

4. Eat, Eat, Eat

São Paulo is a city in which to eat and eat well. There’s fantastic street food, restaurants dedicated to all regions of Brazil (including many Amazonian eateries, in case you won’t be making it there on your trip); delicious Japanese, Italian, and Lebanese food (owing to the large diasporas here); and a surprisingly vast vegan food scene for the plant-based and plant-curious. And if you’re into something more upscale, there’s no shortage of fine-dining establishments, including the number one restaurant in South America, Casa do Porco. If you’re a foodie, São Paulo is a must!

5. Admire the street art

Allegedly named after some Batman graffiti that was painted here in the 1980s, Batman Alley is one of São Paulo’s street art hot spots. Head here to meander through the winding, cobblestone-lined alley and take in the colorful murals. Artists consult with each other before painting a new mural over an old one, so there is a constantly changing gallery here, as well as street vendors selling clothing, jewelry, and other souvenirs that are all just as vibrant as the murals lining the street.

Other Things to Do in Sao Paulo

1. visit the ipiranga museum.

Originally created as a monument to the country’s independence, São Paulo’s Brazilian history museum was inaugurated in 1895. Recently reopened after almost 10 years of renovations, come here for a collection of artwork, photographs, objects, furniture, and maps especially focused on the imperial period and Brazilian independence. The building and gardens themselves are impressive as well, designed to emulate the Palace of Versailles in France. Admission is free.

2. Walk the open streets

São Paulo is a fast-paced place, and the traffic here can get overwhelming, so much so that the city has started several car-free, open-street initiatives to give residents a bit of a respite. Vendors of all types often set up along these thoroughfares, and taking a relaxed stroll on what are normally some of the city’s busiest streets is a low-key way to spend a morning or afternoon.

Paulista Avenue, often considered São Paulo’s version of New York’s Fifth Avenue, is a must-visit in general, but especially when it’s closed to traffic every Sunday. Another popular open street is the Minhocão, an elevated highway that’s closed to traffic for the entire weekend. Since it’s elevated, you can get unobstructed views of the many murals that decorate the buildings lining the road.

3. Enjoy Brazilian art

São Paulo is a museum city. The MASP (Museum of Art of São Paulo) is the most popular. The permanent collection resides all in one expansive open room, with the artwork displayed on large glass pillars, with descriptions on the back so that you see the piece first, before learning its background (or vice versa). It’s organized from contemporary art backward, though the idea of the layout is to encourage visitors to meander through the pieces at their own pace and route, choosing whatever interests them. (After you’re done at the MASP, pop into Parque Trianon across the street. It’s one of the last remaining pieces of the Atlantic Forest that used to cover the city.)

Other major art museums include the Pinacoteca (the oldest art museum in São Paulo, with a huge collection of Brazilian works) and the MAC (Museu de Arte Contemporaria, focused on 20th-century Western art). For more off-the-beaten-path artistic expression, check out the many experimental theaters and art-house cinemas (including CineSala, an independent street theater founded in 1959).

4. Learn at the Museu Afro Brasil

Located in Ibirapuera Park, this expansive museum is dedicated to celebrating and teaching Afro-Brazilian history (with several rooms on the slave trade, one housing the remains of a slave ship), religion, art, and culture. The 6,000-piece collection is massive, including sculptures, documents, engravings, ceramics, paintings, contemporary artwork, jewelry, objects, reliefs, photographs, and textiles. The building itself was designed by renowned Brazilian architect Oscar Niemeyer, so spend some time appreciating it from the outside too. Unfortunately, most of the descriptions aren’t in English (there is free Wi-Fi, so you can use Google Translate to translate the text). Admission is 15 BRL.

5. Peruse the neighborhood markets

Opened in 1933, the Municipal Market of São Paulo is the main one, with all kinds of stalls selling tropical fruits, veggies, and artisanal products (just be careful of the sellers trying to get you to try the different fruits — they’re notorious for giving out “free samples” and then charging high prices). There is also a food court within the market where you can get lunch, a snack, or a drink. While you’re here, make sure to look up to take note of the 72 colorful stained-glass windows that depict food and food production in the region. It’s open Monday to Saturday, 6am-6pm, and Sunday from 6am-4pm.

6. Go on a food tour

While eating your way around town is fun on your own, you can get more cultural and historical context by taking a food tour. Concrete Jungles Walking Tours offers a few, including a breakfast tour, a gourmet tour of the hip Pinheiros neighborhood, and a street food tour in Liberdade . The cost ranges from 160 to 315 BRL, which includes all the food.

7. Visit Liberdade (Japantown)

São Paulo is home to the largest Japanese community outside of Japan, dating back to the end of feudalism in Japan which kick-started emigration to Brazil (where there was a labor shortage at the time). Liberdade is the São Paulo’s Japantown. Come here to have some tasty ramen, curry, and sushi, and to shop at the many Japanese stores and street vendors. If you can, come during the week, as the weekends get incredibly crowded here. And to learn more about the Japanese community in Brazil, the History Museum of Japanese Immigration in Brazil is located here as well (16 BRL, free on Wednesdays).

8. Take in views of the megalopolis

To truly get a feel for just how expansive this city is, head to one of the many rooftop terraces to take in panoramic skyline views. Some of the most popular are the rooftops at MAC USP, Farol Santander, and Hotel Unique, all of which have rooftop bars for grabbing a drink while overlooking the cityscape. Hotel Unique is especially famous for its red rooftop pool and overall building design, which resembles a ship.

9. Watch a soccer match

Like in most of Latin America, soccer (called futebol here) is huge in Brazil. Even if you’re not a big sports fan, it can be fun to attend a game and get caught up in the excitement. Palmeiras and Corinthianos are the two main football teams in São Paulo, and you can watch home games at their respective arenas, Allianz Parque and Arena Corinthians. If there’s no game going on while you’re in town, or if you’re an especially big soccer fan, you can also visit the Museu do Futebol, an interactive museum that documents Brazil’s soccer history and culture (though be aware that all the displays are in Portuguese). Admission is 20 BRL.

10. Enjoy the nightlife

If there’s one stereotype that’s true, it’s that Brazilians know how to party. Whether you’re into clubbing, samba, or just having a few drinks at a neighborhood watering hole, there’s something for everyone here. For a fun night out, head to Vila Madalena and Pinheiros, the hipster neighborhoods with tons of bars and restaurants lining the streets.

11. Celebrate Carnival

While Rio’s Carnival gets all the attention, each city and region of the country has its own Carnival traditions and flair, so if you’re here in February, you’ll get to celebrate the world’s biggest party — and at a much lower cost than in Rio. Tickets to the famous samba parades at São Paulo’s Sambódromo (a samba stadium) cost 45-190 BRL for bleacher general admission, compared to 725-1,085 BRL for the same in Rio (plus, tickets sell out much further in advance in Rio). It’s also impossible to miss the blocos (street parties) that take over the streets during the week of Carnival. These free events are the people’s way to celebrate Carnival, so throw on some glitter and join in to make new friends!

  For more information on other cities in Brazil, check out these guides:

• Fernando de Noronha Travel Guide
• Florianópolis Travel Guide
• Rio de Janeiro Travel Guide

São Paulo Travel Costs

Hostel prices – A bed in a 4–6-person dorm costs 65-90 BRL per night, while a bed in an 8-12-person dorm typically costs 50-65 BRL. A private double room costs about 225-300 BRL, but sometimes you can find rooms for as low as 150 BRL per night.

Typical hostel amenities include free Wi-Fi, a shared kitchen, air-conditioning, indoor/outdoor common areas, and a bar/restaurant on the premises. A few hostels offer breakfast for free, but most charge an extra fee (if they offer it at all). Unlike other more popular tourist destinations in Brazil (such as Rio or Florianópolis), prices in São Paulo remain consistent throughout the year.

Budget hotel prices – A budget two-star hotel room in the center of town costs 150-200 BRL per night. Typical amenities include air-conditioning, TV, and a complimentary buffet breakfast of bread, cakes, fruits, juice, and tea/coffee.

Airbnb is available in São Paulo, with private rooms starting around 67 BRL per night; entire homes/apartments cost 115 BRL per night. Be sure to book early, otherwise, prices can double.

Food – Brazilian cuisine — like the country itself — is a mix of many cultures, with European, Amerindian, African, and Japanese influences. As it’s such a large country, food varies by region in Brazil, but you can find all of it — and then some — in São Paulo.

In typical Brazilian cuisine, common vegetables include tubers like cassava and yams, tomatoes, red peppers, okra, and more. As Brazil is a subtropical country, there’s also a huge variety of fruits, with the most famous being the superfood açaí, though cupuaçu (related to cacao), mango, papaya, guava, orange, passion fruit, and pineapple are all common as well.

Feijoada , Brazil’s national dish, is a meaty bean stew that is traditionally eaten for Wednesday or Saturday lunch. Other popular dishes include moqueca (fish stew), polenta, and vatapá (a stew of bread, shrimp, coconut milk, and peanuts).

Some popular street food snacks include pão de queijo (cheese bread rolls), acarajé (black-eyed pea and shrimp fritters), coxinha (croquettes), pastéis (savory deep-fried pastries with assorted fillings), and açaí (which you can have pureed, plain, or with toppings).

Street food like pastéis costs around 7-10 BRL, while a coxinha is around 5-7 BRL. A sandwich and drink at a juice bar should be no more than 35-40 BRL, while a combo meal at a fast-food restaurant (think McDonald’s) is around 35 BRL. A meal at a Chinese takeout restaurant costs about the same (35 BRL) as a dish like fried rice.

Buffets are very common throughout Brazil. Expect to pay around 40-65 BRL for a filling meal at one of these (depending on how much you eat, of course).

A meal at an inexpensive restaurant serving typical Brazilian cuisine (known as a boteco ) costs about 25-35 BRL. If you want to splurge, a three-course meal (appetizer, main, dessert, and a drink) at a nicer restaurant costs about 150-200 BRL.

A domestic beer costs 8-11 BRL (draft craft beer starts at 15 BRL), and a cocktail starts at 20-25 BRL for a caipirinha (Brazil’s classic cocktail), though at higher-end places, they can be upwards of 40 BRL. A soda is 10 BRL, and a cappuccino is 10-15 BRL.

Note that most restaurants add a 10% “service fee” (tip) to the final bill so you don’t need to add anything extra.

Some specific restaurant recommendations: Casa Tucupi for Amazonian food, Padaria Bella Paulista (a 24-hour diner/bakery/café), and Tabuleiro do Acarajé, which specializes in acaraje , a typical street snack from the region of Bahia.

For fantastic cocktails, head to Santana Bar or Bar dos Arcos, an ultra-cool underground cocktail bar under the gorgeous Municipal Theatre.

Grocery shopping costs about 200-250 BRL per week for basic staples like fresh veggies, pasta, rice, and some meat or fish.

Backpacking São Paulo Suggested Budgets

If you are backpacking São Paulo, expect to spend about 155 BRL per day. This covers staying in a hostel dorm, eating street food, cooking some of your meals, limiting your drinking, using public transportation to get around, and doing mostly free activities like walking tours.

On a midrange budget of about 375 BRL per day, you can stay in a private hostel or Airbnb room, eat out for all your meals at cheap restaurants, take the occasional taxi to get around, take buses between destinations, enjoy a few drinks, and do more paid activities, such as a bike tour and museum visits.

On an upscale budget of about 675 BRL per day or more, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for all your meals, enjoy more drinks, take taxis everywhere, and enjoy all the tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get an idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in BRL.

São Paulo Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

São Paulo is one of the more expensive cities in Brazil, but prices depend on where you are and what kind of activities you’re doing. It’s still cheaper than Rio, and there are a lot more free and cheap activities here. Here are some other money-saving tips to help you get started:

• Stay with a local – Couchsurfing connects you with locals who can give you a free place to stay and share their insider tips and advice. It’s the best way to meet locals and save money if you’re on a tight budget.
• Visit off-season – December to March is a popular time to visit as people from the Northern Hemisphere escape the winter. Try to avoid these months if you want to keep your expenses low.
• Skip Carnival – Carnival might be fun, but it can also get expensive. If you’re on a budget, avoid visiting during Carnival.
• Pack a water bottle – The tap water here isn’t safe to drink so bring a water bottle with a filter to save money and reduce your single-use plastic usage. My preferred bottle is LifeStraw as it has a built-in filter to ensure your water is always clean and safe.
• Snack on street food – There’s a thriving street food culture in Brazil, meaning lots of cheap and delicious food to fill up on.
• Eat at the buffets – Buffet-style restaurants are extremely common and popular here. You take a plate, fill it up with anything your heart desires from the hot and cold buffets, and then pay by weight. It’s an inexpensive way to eat as the locals do.
• Go to free museum days – Many of the museums here are free, and the ones that aren’t usually have a free day each week. Check their websites for details.
• Visit the market – If you’re staying at a hostel with kitchen facilities, stock up on food at the market and eat like the locals. It won’t be fancy, but it will be affordable.
• Get an Airpass – Brazil is a huge country, and if you want to see multiple destinations yet don’t have tons of time, you’ll need to fly. While there are budget airlines in Brazil, if you plan to visit faraway places (like the Amazon), flights can get expensive. If you book your domestic flights in advance, an Airpass can save you money on flights. It’s the cheapest way to fly around the country.
• Take a free walking tour – São Paulo Free Walking Tour offers many different tours, and they’re the best way to see the main sights on a budget. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end!

Where to Stay in São Paulo

São Paulo is sprawling. When you’re researching your hostel, make sure you find a neighborhood that fits your needs. Otherwise, you’ll be spending a lot of money on taxis or Ubers and sitting in terrible traffic. There are plenty of hostels and budget-friendly hotels here. Here are some suggested places to stay:

• O de Casa Hostel Bar
• Madá Hostel
• Hostel Brasil Boutique
• Comfort Nova Paulista
• Hotel Calstar
• Hotel Amália

How to Get Around São Paulo

Walking – São Paulo is walkable within neighborhoods, but since the city is so large, it would take forever to get from one neighborhood to another.

Public transportation – São Paulo’s metro system is the largest in South America. It’s known for being fast, reliable, clean, and efficient. It costs 4.40 BRL for one ride, which must be paid for in cash. There’s no transit pass for foreigners (Brazilian citizens and residents can get one with a valid ID). Lines operate from 4:40am-12am Sunday-Friday and holidays. On Saturdays, lines run from 4:40am to 1am.

The BRT (bus rapid transit) system is also a very popular, and often a faster, more direct way to get somewhere as compared to the metro, thanks to dedicated bus lanes. You pay your fare (also 4.40 BRL, in cash) as soon as you board to the ticket collector (a worker that sits in a chair to collect money; they’re separate from the bus driver).

Taxis – Taxi fares start at 5.50 BRL, plus an additional 4 BRL per kilometer. There are two fare sets: “1” is for the daytime, and “2” is for evenings/overnights (8pm-6am) and Sundays. The second fare set is up to 30% more than the base rate. You can see which fare set is being used on the meter, which always must be turned on (if it’s not, get out and hail another cab).

You can also use the 99 app (formerly known as 99Taxis) to get a safe, metered taxi. Avoid taking taxis at peak hours, as the traffic here is notoriously bad. During rush hour, taking the metro or buses (which have special dedicated lanes) is usually much faster.

Bicycle – São Paulo is a very hilly city, so keep that in mind if you plan to bike here! You can find the bike-share system here, called bike Itaú, all over the city (the bikes and docks are a recognizable orange). For one ride, it’s 4.39 BRL for 15 minutes, and then 0.40 BRL each minute after that. Electric bikes are 0.40 BRL per minute right from the start. You can also rent bikes in parks, such as Ibirapuera Park, for 7 BRL per hour.

Ridesharing – Uber is available and very common in São Paulo. It usually costs less than a taxi ride too. A typical ride costs around 20-35 BRL.

Car rental – Renting a car generally costs 80-120 BRL per day, though you really don’t need to do so here. It’s unnecessary, the traffic is terrible, drivers are aggressive, and overall, it’s just a hassle.

When to Go to São Paulo

São Paulo is a rainy city. That being said, it usually doesn’t rain the whole day, even in the summer wet season, which is from December to March (with January being the rainiest month). During this time, temperatures are in the low 20s Celsius (mid-70s Fahrenheit).

In winter (June–August), you’ll have much less rain, though temperatures are lower, ranging between 12 and 22°C (54–72°F).

There’s really no bad time to visit, though, as the weather is quite mild year-round. However, the shoulder seasons (March–May or September–November), when it’s warmer but less rainy, are ideal.

Accommodation does book up and is more expensive during Carnival (in February), though it’s not nearly as pronounced as in Rio, which is where most foreigners go for Carnival.

How to Stay Safe in São Paulo

Though it’s safer than Rio (the favelas, or shantytowns, are not close to the city center as in Rio), travelers should be careful and on their guard in São Paulo. Pickpocketing and other petty crimes are common here. Don’t flash expensive belongings, and always keep your phone and wallet secure and out of reach. Don’t carry your passport with you when you’re out for the day. If you have multiple credit cards, don’t carry them all with you at once.

Avoid going out alone in the evenings after dark, especially in downtown, where there are large encampments of unhoused persons and more likelihood of petty theft. If you do need to go out at night, have your hostel/hotel call a taxi for you, or use Uber (which is incredibly common).

Solo female travelers should exercise caution here. Avoid walking around alone when possible, particularly at night. Always keep an eye on your drink (even when it’s being poured), and never accept drinks from strangers. Always trust your gut instinct.

Use ATMs inside a bank or have a friend with you to keep an eye out while you withdraw cash.

To learn which scams to be on the lookout for, read this post about common travel scams.

Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

If you experience an emergency, dial 190 for assistance.

For more in-depth coverage of how to stay safe in Brazil, check out this post that answers some frequently asked questions and concerns. Overall though, Brazilians are very friendly and helpful. Don’t let fearful perceptions of the city and country put you off from visiting this vibrant place.

And always buy travel insurance. It will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancelations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong.

São Paulo Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

São Paulo Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out other articles on backpacking/traveling Brazil to continue planning your trip:

The 6 Best Hostels in Rio de Janeiro

Is Brazil Safe to Visit?

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São Paulo, Brazil: metro Line 5 was a game-changer for a city that never slows down

Expanding line 5 has opened doors to employment, healthcare—like the nearby AACD and Servidor hospitals—public services, and more

Photos by Mariana Ceratti/World Bank

Simone da Conceição, a cleaning assistant, lives in Guaianases, located in the eastern part of São Paulo—Latin America's most populous city. Her daily routine starts at 4:45 a.m., as she hops on a train and navigates through three subway lines to reach her job at the AACD Hospital in the Ibirapuera neighborhood, nestled in the south-central section of São Paulo. The lilac Line 5, which conveniently stops at the hospital, has been a lifesaver, making it possible for her to take the job and consistently make it by 7 a.m.

"Without it, given where I live, working here would be out of the question—I'd never make it on time. Line 5 has made my commute so much more manageable and quicker," Simone shares.

Her experience echoes that of countless others in Brazil and beyond: reliable public transit can be the deciding factor in job opportunities, whether it's escaping unemployment or finding better work conditions. It's the difference between punctuality and tardiness, the latter potentially costing you your job.

Before 2017, when the Alto da Boa Vista-Brooklyn stretch was unveiled, Line 5's route from the low-income area of Capão Redondo to Largo Treze in Santo Amaro was less than ideal. Its sole connection to Line 9 of the São Paulo Metropolitan Trains Company (CPTM) meant more transfers and a less appealing option for commuters.

Travel faster, travel safer

Addressing this issue, the São Paulo state government poured $3.1 billion into civil works like tunnels and stations to extend Line 5. The World Bank stepped in to fund the addition of 26 new trains, signaling gear, and platform doors for all stations—a $650 million investment. The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) also contributed with a $367.1 million loan. And ViaMobilidade, a private entity, secured a 20-year concession (ending in 2038) to run the line, committing to an investment of 88 million reais in upgrades and enhancements.

Thanks to these efforts, Line 5 now reaches Chácara Klabin in the south-central part of São Paulo, allowing riders to connect with Lines 1 (blue) and 2 (green). This expansion has opened doors to employment, healthcare—like the nearby AACD and Servidor hospitals—public services, and more.

"The commute from Capão Redondo to Sé ( in Downtown São Paulo ), for instance, used to take 99 minutes by car and bus. Now, with Line 5 and a transfer to Line 1, it's about 50 minutes. This significant cut in travel time greatly increases the range of job and educational opportunities within an hour's reach," explains Edpo Covalciuk, a Transport Specialist at the World Bank.

"The World Bank's involvement was crucial, not just financially but also for the technical support provided to the São Paulo Metro and the state government in rolling out such a complex project, particularly for underground lines in densely populated areas like São Paulo," Covalciuk adds.

For Graziele Zonato, a homemaker and mother to 17-year-old Filipe, the line has been a blessing, slashing their travel time from Itaquacetuba to the AACD Hospital, where Filipe receives care following cerebral palsy surgery. What used to be a two-and-a-half-hour journey is now just 90 minutes. "We're grateful for the time saved," she says.

Interestingly, women make up the majority of Line 5's ridership at 56%. Their varied reasons for travel reflect the multiple roles they play in managing home and family life. Line 5 has been transformative, particularly for women, by reducing the need for longer, less secure transfers. The line also promotes safety with anti-harassment campaigns and reporting channels at its stations.

Filipe himself is a fan of the line's accessibility, especially the conveniently located elevators. "I'd rather use them than the escalator," he says, now a high school graduate with aspirations in robotics.

Paulo Henrique de Menezes, a 66-year-old marriage officiant, has also reaped the benefits of Line 5. On the advice of colleagues, he started using the subway for his work commute early in 2024. He now parks his car at a station and takes the train downtown. "I used to arrive exhausted from driving. Now, I avoid traffic, enjoy clean and comfy trains, and listen to the stories of people around me," he reflects, noting that he's even run into couples whose weddings he officiated. "I've started using the subway for weekend outings too," he adds.

Then there's Micael da Cruz, a 17-year-old soccer player from Jardim das Rosas in Capão Redondo, who relies on Line 5 to get to and from training sessions at the Next Academy in Santo Amaro. "It's incredibly handy," says Micael, who's on the brink of a new chapter after being selected to play for a team in Sorocaba. His dream? To one day travel the globe as a professional athlete. The lilac line of the São Paulo Metro will surely have played a pivotal role in his success story.

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Packers to open 2024 NFL season in São Paulo, Brazil, against the Philadelphia Eagles

GREEN BAY – The Green Bay Packers will open the 2024 season against the Philadelphia Eagles in São Paulo, Brazil.

The NFL said Wednesday the Packers will play the Eagles on Sept. 6 at Arena Corinthians , home to the Brazilian soccer team SC Corinthians, in the league's first South American game. It will be a rare regular-season Friday night game.

The Packers' first International Series regular-season game was a 27-22 loss on Oct. 9, 2022, against the New York Giants in London. They were the final NFL team to play a regular-season international game. The Eagles also will play their second regular-season international game.

Teams designated for international games this year include the Eagles and Packers in São Paulo; the Minnesota Vikings, Chicago Bears and Jacksonville Jaguars in London; and the Carolina Panthers in Munich, Germany. Opponents for the European games have not been named. Last year, the NFL announced its full international schedule in May.

It came down to the Packers or the Cleveland Browns as the Eagles' opponent. Packers President and CEO Mark Murphy has said on several occasions that Germany would be an attractive venue, but he also said the Packers would gladly play in Brazil, where Green Bay is one of the two most popular NFL teams.

"We're excited to play in front of our devoted fans in Brazil and help build upon the international popularity of the NFL and the Packers. We had a great experience playing internationally for the first time a couple of years ago and we're proud to be part of the league's continued global growth," Murphy said.

Packers-Eagles in Brazil: What's the time zone in São Paulo, the city hosting the season opener?

The matchup will be considered a road game for the Packers. Because visiting teams typically do not receive a ticket allotment for season ticket holders, tickets to the game are not available to purchase through the Packers. Ticket packages will be available through On Location, an official partner of the NFL, at onlocationexp.com/packersbrazil . 

Arena Corinthians is home to Brazilian soccer team the SC Corinthians and hosted both the 2014 FIFA World Cup and 2016 Olympic Games. The stadium has a capacity of about 47,000.

Murphy said there is a benefit to playing the Eagles on a neutral field, given the difficulty of winning in Philadelphia.

The Packers, Browns and Eagles sent scouting parties to São Paulo last week to get a better sense of conditions and facilities.

"Being the first game ever in Brazil, there's not really people you can ask about their experience," Murphy said.

Peacock (NBCUniversal) has the right to exclusively stream the game . In keeping with a long-standing NFL policy, the game will be available on free, over-the-air broadcast television in the local markets of the competing teams as well as on mobile devices with NFL+. In Wisconsin, the local markets are Green Bay and Milwaukee. Kickoff time was not announced. São Paulo is two hours ahead of Green Bay.

The trip to São Paulo is longer than that to London. All told, the outbound trip to London is 10 hours, not counting layovers, while the outbound trip to São Paulo is 13 hours. Return trips are 12 hours from London and 13.5 hours from São Paulo.

The Packers earlier expressed concerns about the logistics of the trip, which Murphy said Wednesday from the team's Tailgate Tour were still being worked out. "The travel is kind of the same for both teams," he said.

São Paulo is on the southeastern coast of Brazil. It is 277 miles southwest of Rio de Janeiro and has a population of 12.3 million, making it about 1.5 times larger than New York City and as large as all of Illinois.

Packers have nine home games this season

The Packers have nine home games and eight road games this season. It is the first time Lambeau Field will host nine regular-season home games.

Home opponents include the Chicago Bears, Minnesota Vikings, Detroit Lions, Arizona Cardinals, Houston Texans, Indianapolis Colts, Miami Dolphins, New Orleans Saints and San Francisco 49ers. Road games are against the Bears, Vikings, Lions, Eagles, Jacksonville Jaguars, Los Angeles Rams, Tennessee Titans and Seattle Seahawks.

The NFL will release its full schedule in early May, after the draft.

The Packers were the final NFL team to play a regular-season international game, although they did play preseason games in Toronto in 1997, Tokyo in 1998 and Winnipeg in 2019.

Contact Richard Ryman at  [email protected] . Follow him on Twitter at  @RichRymanPG,  on Instagram at  @rrymanPG  or on Facebook at  www.facebook.com/RichardRymanPG

Brazil's Bolsonaro rallies supporters in Rio

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LATAM Airlines said on Wednesday that it was no longer seeking to acquire Boeing B737 planes either from bankrupt Brazilian carrier Gol or other sources, opting to look for alternative narrowbody aircraft after talks failed.

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US Supreme Court split over Idaho's strict abortion ban in medical emergencies

U.S. Supreme Court justices, wading back into the battle over abortion access, appeared divided on Wednesday in a case pitting Idaho's strict Republican-backed abortion ban against a federal law that ensures that patients can receive emergency care.