Travel alert: Kidnapping at popular tropical destination leads to federal warning

The U.S. Department of State has updated its travel advisory for Brazil, adding a risk for kidnapping.

“Violent crime, including murder, armed robbery, and carjacking, can occur in urban areas, day and night,” the department stated in an advisory on Aug. 8. “There was a kidnapping for ransom of U.S. travelers.”

The updated advisory for Brazil remains at Level 2, urging travelers to “exercise increased caution.” The advisory also raises concerns about gang activity and organized crime,” as well as the risk of sedatives being placed in drinks, particularly in Rio de Janeiro.

The U.S. government also issued a Level 4 “do not travel” advisory for regions within 100 miles of Brazil’s international land borders with Bolivia, Colombia, Guyana, French Guiana, Paraguay, Peru, Suriname and Venezuela due to security risks. However, travel to Foz do Iguaca National Park and Pantanal National Park is allowed.

The advisory also cautions against visiting informal house developments (commonly known as favelas or vilas), even on guided tours because “neither tour companies nor police can guarantee your safety when entering these communities.”

For those who choose to visit Brazil, the State Department urges travelers to take the following precautions:

• Stay aware of your surroundings.
• Not physically resist any robbery attempt.
• Not accept food or drinks from strangers and always watch your drinks.
• Use caution when walking or driving at night.
• Avoid going to bars or nightclubs alone.
• Avoid walking on beaches after dark.
• Not display signs of wealth, such as expensive watches or jewelry.
• Be alert to date drug scams.
• Stay alert when visiting banks or ATMs.
• Be careful at major transportation centers or on public transport, especially at night. Passengers are at higher risk of robbery or assault when using public buses in Brazil.
• Use increased caution when hiking in isolated areas.
• Develop a communication plan with family, employer, or host organization so they can monitor your safety and location as you travel through high-risk areas. Specify how you’ll confirm you’re safe (text, calls, etc.), how often, and who you’ll contact first to share the information.