Traveling to Brazil in 2026 requires a high degree of caution and situational awareness, as crime remains a significant concern in major urban centers. Most international travel advisories currently recommend that visitors "Exercise a High Degree of Caution" due to high rates of muggings, armed robberies, and pickpocketing, particularly in tourist-heavy areas of Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, and Salvador. To stay safe, it is vital to avoid walking alone at night, stay away from "favelas" (shanty towns) even with guided tours, and never resist a robbery if confronted. A major safety trend for 2026 is the warning against using cell phones in public, as "snatch-and-run" thefts are common. However, many parts of Brazil—including the wine regions of the South, the Pantanal wetlands, and colonial towns like Paraty—are relatively safe and peaceful. By using official "Radio Taxis" or Uber instead of public buses, leaving expensive jewelry at home, and staying alert in crowded places, millions of tourists enjoy Brazil's vibrant culture and natural beauty every year without incident.