Brazil Travel Guide

🇺🇸 US State Department Advisory

Updated to add risk indicator for kidnapping . Exercise increased caution in Brazil due to crime and kidnapping. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. Do not travel to these areas due to crime:  Anywhere within 160 km/100 miles of Brazil’s land borders with Bolivia, Colombia, Guyana, French Guiana, Paraguay, Peru, Suriname, and Venezuela. This restriction does not apply to the Foz do Iguacu National Park or Pantanal National Park.&#8...

🚨 Emergency Numbers

🏥 Healthcare Summary

São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro have world-class private hospitals like Hospital Albert Einstein and Copa D'Or. In rural and Amazonian areas, medical facilities are very limited and evacuation may be necessary for serious conditions.

Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance is essential. Private healthcare is significantly better than public, and emergency evacuation coverage is recommended for travelers visiting remote areas like the Amazon.

💊 Medication Restrictions

Brazil's health surveillance agency (ANVISA) regulates medication imports. Travelers may bring personal-use quantities of medications in original packaging with a doctor's letter — Portuguese translation is recommended. Controlled substances require a prescription and doctor's note explaining medical necessity. Declare medications at customs to avoid issues.

• Benzodiazepines (Xanax, Valium) — RESTRICTED: Prescription required. Carry original packaging and a doctor's letter. Portuguese translation recommended.
• Adderall / amphetamines — BANNED: Amphetamines including Adderall are banned in Brazil. No exemption for foreign prescriptions. Lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse) is available locally but foreign supplies are prohibited.
• Cannabis / CBD — RESTRICTED: Recreational cannabis is illegal. CBD products require ANVISA authorization. Do not bring cannabis or CBD products without prior approval.
• Methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta) — RESTRICTED: Controlled but legal with prescription. Carry doctor's letter and original packaging.
• Codeine / opioids — RESTRICTED: Prescription required. Carry original packaging and doctor's letter. Portuguese translation recommended.

🙏 Cultural Tips

Tipping: 10% service charge usually included in restaurant bills. If not, 10% is customary. Round up for taxis. Tip hotel porters R$5-10 per bag.

Cultural taboos to avoid:

• The 'OK' hand gesture (considered vulgar in Brazil)
• Rushing conversations — Brazilians value personal connection before business
• Wearing Argentina's football jersey
• Discussing deforestation judgmentally
• Being excessively punctual (social events start 30-60 min late)

🎭 Tourist Scam Guides

Common scams to watch out for in Brazil: