U.S. Urges ‘Exercise Increased Caution’ for Brazil Travel Amid Crime and Kidnapping Concerns

The U.S. Department of State has updated its travel advisory for Brazil, urging Americans to “exercise increased caution” due to widespread crime and kidnapping risks. The warning, posted in August 2026 on the U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Brazil’s travel advisory page, applies nationwide but emphasizes that some areas present an even higher threat level.

“Exercise increased caution in Brazil due to crime and kidnapping. Some areas have increased risk.”

The advisory’s “increased caution” designation reflects elevated safety concerns without escalating to the highest “do not travel” warning. The State Department cites both street crime—including armed robbery and carjacking—and kidnapping for ransom as persistent threats across the country. While the alert is countrywide, the embassy notes that specific regions face distinct dangers, prompting officials to urge travelers to review the detailed breakdown on the State Department’s Brazil country information page before planning any trip.

What the Advisory Means for Travelers

For U.S. citizens already in Brazil or considering a visit, the guidance does not cancel travel plans but demands a higher level of situational awareness. The embassy recommends several practical steps:

• Stay vigilant in public spaces, especially at night and in crowded areas where pickpocketing and express kidnappings are more common.
• Avoid isolated locations, and always use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps rather than hailing vehicles on the street.
• Vary routes and routines to reduce predictability, a common tactic used by criminals to target individuals.
• Regularly check local news and the embassy’s website for real-time safety updates that may affect your itinerary.

Travelers are also encouraged to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts and make it easier to be located in an emergency. While the advisory does not name specific high-risk cities in its summary, the State Department’s detailed assessment typically identifies border regions, certain urban neighborhoods, and areas with limited police presence as zones requiring extra vigilance. Officials stress that even popular tourist destinations can pose risks, and a false sense of security remains the greatest liability.

The August 2026 update underscores the ongoing challenge of maintaining safety in a country that remains one of the world’s most visited for its natural wonders and cultural festivals. Authorities continue to work with Brazilian counterparts to improve security, but the advisory signals that conditions warrant sustained caution well into the year.