Brazil welcomes nearly 7 million international tourists in 2024, only Argentina, the most popular country in South America.
Traditionally, the biggest hasty landers in cities such as Rio de Janeiro, Sao Paulo and El Salvador during the Carnival.
The week-long festival marks the beginning of Catholic Young Y and brings millions of colorful street parades, parties and samba dancers to the country. According to the Brazilian government figures, there were more than 2 million people within and outside the Brazilian party during this period.
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That’s why two governments warn Brazil about travel this spring
This year, the Carnival will begin on the evening of February 27 and last until March 8. Before the popular travel period, both the U.S. and Canadian governments issued warnings to citizens entering South American countries.
The U.S. Embassy and Consulate in Brazil wrote in a February 4 warning: “As the start of the 2025 Carnival season, U.S. citizens are reminded to stay alert while enjoying the celebrations throughout Brazil.”
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The embassy warned of possible crime and drug trafficking among the large crowds attracted by the Carnival, as well as spikes of drinks in crowded bars. The official advice is not to wear gorgeous jewelry or carry a lot of cash.
“Be alert to drug scams,” the consultation further said. “The criminals target foreigners through dating apps or in bars before taking drugs and robbing victims. Don’t accept strangers’ drinks.”
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Warning to citizens: “Stimulating food and beverage events are increasing”
Taking a step forward, the Canadian government raised the country’s travel rating to “highly cautious” and marked certain areas as including Carnival tourists because “non-essential travel was avoided”.
The latter includes borders with countries such as Argentina, Colombia and Peru, while government agencies responsible for citizen safety abroad have also warned of rising crime rates in Brasilia, Rex and Sao Paulo. Although tourists are most likely to be affected by minor crimes, the rates of violent crimes such as armed robbery and sexual assault are also rising.
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“The spike food and beverage incidents are increasing in Brazil, especially in Rio de Janeiro.”[…] The use of drugs has also been reported to promote sexual assault and robbery against foreigners. Attacks often occur in informal taxis. ”
Rio de Janeiro is known for the Sambodromo parade and remains the most popular and commercial venue to experience the Carnival. A week’s parade is often considered the largest festival celebration in the world. Meanwhile, cities like Recife and Salvador are known for their extensive street parties throughout the period, but due to their sporadic and improvised nature, they can also create more unpredictable and even dangerous situations for visitors.
“Minor crimes revolve around the increase in large events and celebrations such as large sporting events, international conferences, carnivals [and] Christmas,” the Canadian government wrote.
Both the U.S. and Canadian embassies recommend tourists to travel to the country to major cities and tourist hubs while avoiding venture into slums, an economically disadvantaged suburb that is well-known for its high crime rates.
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