November 12, 2017

Where to Travel in Brazil?

zika virus At the time of writing, the local currency has devalued 100% against the USD, 50% against the AUD, and 200% against the GBP, which has resulted in cheaper hotel prices. It also means getting an absolute bargain in terms of day-to-day expenses once you’re on the ground – making it one of South America’s better value destinations.

But just what are the dangers in Brazil? We send thousands of clients a year to Brazil and the vast majority have an amazing time in this incredible country. We asked Aussie Nick Macciocca – the Director of our central Rio-based office – his thoughts on the current situation:

1) Zika Virus in Brazil

Zika, Zika, Zika – we have all heard about this. Zika has been trending for months on the web and there has been many Zika reports in the news. We posted a little while ago about travelling and the Zika virus but since then, some things have changed a little.

A lot of the issues that doctors were finding with Microcephaly (babies being born with smaller than usual heads) seem to be restricted to one area in North Eastern Brazil, and generally only with local residents who drink from local water sources. A link has been suggested between the pesticides used in the local area that has contaminated the ground water, leading to this condition. However, this link was recently denied by WHO.

While the link between Zika and Microcephaly in unborn children remains unconfirmed, it is still recommended that pregnant women do not take any unnecessary risk by travelling.

2) Security in Brazil

Favela Security has been and will be an issue in Brazil going forward, as it has been for many years. Generally speaking – major tourist areas of Rio de Janeiro, Iguazu falls and other areas of the coast do have a very strong police presence.

In the lead up to the Olympic games and as per the World Cup in 2014, police made a big effort to clean up and “pacify” a lot of the favela areas (shanty towns) and as a result of social programs (and a lot of arrests!) gang activity in these areas was drastically reduced. Some of these areas are now open to tourists and becoming popular on itineraries to Brazil.

Like any major city in the world (especially in Latin America) we do ask people to not show any outward signs of wealth or use expensive jewellery, and to keep their valuables safe in their hotels. Pickpockets can be present in crowded areas and around tourist areas, so keep your valuables close to you. If crime does occur, we advise you to contact our local office in Rio de Janeiro and they can assist you in contacting the tourist police – who will help with any reports you wish to make.

3) Drugs in Brazil

Like many big cities drugs are an issue in Brazil. Acute poverty, access to drugs and a party reputation all lead to Rio de Janeiro being a hotspot for drug activity. Brazil is a transit point for drugs destined for Europe from the west coast of South America (Peru, Brazil and Colombia) and hence cocaine isn’t as present here as in other countries in the region. We strongly discourage all our clients to not partake in any drug related activities and if offered politely decline the offer. Activity is at its highest around party events such as Carnival and New Year’s Eve.

4) Transportation in Brazil

Outside of major cities, road infrastructure may not be what you’re used to in your home country. Avoid travelling at night, and always book transport with a reliable company. Service levels can vary greatly throughout the country, and we encourage people to fly where possible as distances are very large. Brazil is larger than Australia or the USA! With the current weakness in the local currency, combined with massive competition amongst the 4 main domestic airlines, a 2 hour flight between two major cities is often far cheaper than a 30 hour bus ride. Reliable local airlines include LATAM, Avianca Brazil and GOL.

5) The Amazon and Wetlands

Like any Amazonian region, mosquito-borne illnesses can be prevalent. In areas such as Manaus, most tourist areas are considered “safe” however we do advise you take precautions such as mosquito repellent, long sleeves and light colours. Avoid travelling near still water around dusk when Mosquitos love to come out and snack!