Brazil

Always carry a copy of your passport and another form of photo ID if you have one.

Drug trafficking is widespread in Brazil. Bringing drugs in to or out of Brazil in any quantity is illegal and the penalties are severe.

You should expect a long jail sentence and heavy fines for possessing, using or smuggling illegal drugs, including when transiting through the airport.

British nationals have been targeted through email scams where fraudsters offer a financial reward for travelling to Brazil, where they are then asked to carry items in to or out of Brazil, including to the UK. These items are often illegal drugs. Anyone caught will face detention for drug trafficking, regardless of the circumstances.

Airports in Brazil have excellent technology and security for detecting illegal items, including cannabis. This is also used to scan the baggage of transiting passengers.

All electronic cigarettes and vaping devices are illegal in Brazil, including refills, parts and accessories.

Customs officials have the authority to confiscate any vape products found in travellers’ luggage (both checked in and carry on) during inspections.

There is no legislation against same-sex sexual activity in Brazil. Same-sex marriage is legal and LGBT+ couples have equal rights in law.

São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro and other cities hold Pride events, which attract large numbers. These events are usually very peaceful.

Brazil is generally tolerant. However, Brazilian society is quite conservative, particularly outside the larger towns and cities. There are reports of discrimination, violence and harassment against the LGBT+ community. Urban areas are usually more accepting. 

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers.

The rainy season runs from November until March in the south and south-east of Brazil (including Rio de Janeiro) and from April until July in the north-east of Brazil. However heavy rainfall and flooding can also occur outside of the designated rainy seasons, in any region of the country.

Heavy rainfall often disrupts infrastructure, particularly in rural areas. Flash floods and landslides are common in regions where mountains are close to the coast, such as Rio de Janeiro. This includes in tourist areas. People have drowned when swept away in fast flowing water. Cars and buses have been caught in landslides, resulting in deaths.

Monitor local media and follow local authority warnings which are displayed on digital street signs and sent to hotels and hostels. Follow any instructions given by the local authorities. Avoid travelling on the road during heavy rain. If you are outside when the rain starts, avoid walking in flooded areas, and do not cross fast flowing water, however shallow you think it is.

Forest fires are common from May to September, especially during July and August due to the dry season. They are highly dangerous and unpredictable. Check the latest alerts and weather forecast (in Portuguese) and follow the advice of local authorities if you’re considering travelling to affected areas.