Tips for Travelers to Central & South America

Tips for Travelers to Central and South America

Argentina, Belize, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, El Salvador, French Guiana, 

Guatemala, Guyana, Honduras, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Suriname, Uruguay, Venezuela

FOREWORD

Travelers to Central and South America are usually welcomed with courtesy and warmth. There is 

great diversity in the region. You can visit major cosmopolitan cities, ruins of great ancient civilizations, 

primeval tropical rainforests and breathtaking locales. However, there are important things that you 

should know before you travel. That is why we have prepared this publication. We wish you an 

enjoyable and memorable journey.

Please note that travel to Mexico and the Caribbean are covered in their own publications. Please refer 

to the last page of this pamphlet for further details.

DEPARTMENT OF STATE PUBLICATION 10407 

Bureau of Consular Affairs 

Revised October 1996

The information in this publication is in the public domain and may be reproduced without permission. 

When this material is reproduced, the Department of State would appreciate receiving a copy at: CA/P/

PA, Room 6831, Department of State, Washington, D.C. 20520.

CURRENT TRAVEL INFORMATION

The Department of State's Consular Information Sheets are available for every country of the world. 

They describe topics such as unusual entry regulations, the crime and security situation, political 

disturbances, areas of instability and drug penalties. They also provide addresses and emergency 

telephone numbers for U.S. embassies and consulates in the subject country. In general, the sheets 

do not give advice. Instead, they describe conditions so travelers can make informed decisions about 

their trips. 

In some dangerous situations, however, the Department of State recommends that Americans defer 

travel to a country. In such a case, a Travel Warning is issued for the country in addition to its Consular 

Information Sheet.

Public Announcements are a means to disseminate information about terrorist threats and other 

relatively short-term and/or trans-national conditions posing significant risks to the security of American 

travelers. They are issued when there is a perceived threat, usually involving Americans as a particular 

target group. In the past, Public Announcements have been issued to deal with short-term coups, preelection disturbances, violence by terrorists and anniversary dates of specific terrorist events.

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Consular Information Sheets, Travel Warnings and Public Announcements are available at U.S. 

regional passport agencies; at U.S. embassies and consulates abroad; or by sending a self-addressed, 

stamped envelope to: Overseas Citizens Services, Room 4811, Department of State, Washington, DC 

20520-4818. They are also available through airline computer reservation systems when you or your 

travel agent make your international air reservations.

Before you travel, check to see if a Travel Warning is in effect for the country or countries that you plan 

to visit.

You can access Consular Information Sheets, Travel Warnings and Public Announcements 24 hours-aday in several ways.

Telephone

To listen to them, call (202) 647-5225 from a touchtone phone.

Internet

Information about travel and consular services is available on the Bureau of Consular Affairs' World 

Wide Web home page. The address is http://travel.state.gov. It includes Consular Information Sheets, 

Travel Warnings and Public Announcements, passport and visa information, travel publications, 

background on international adoption and international child abduction services and international legal 

assistance. The site also links to the State Department's main home page at http://www.state.gov, 

which contains current foreign affairs information.

As you travel, keep abreast of local news coverage. If you plan more than a short stay in one place, if 

you intend travel to an area where communications are poor, or if you are in an area experiencing civil 

unrest or some natural disaster, you are encouraged to register with the nearest U.S. embassy or 

consulate. Registration takes only a few moments, and it may be invaluable in case of an emergency. 

Remember to leave a detailed itinerary and your passport number with a friend or relative in the United 

States. If your itinerary is not fixed, try to get in touch with family and friends frequently so they will 

know how to reach you if necessary.

ENTERING AND LEAVING - PASSPORTS AND VISAS

U.S. citizens must have a valid U.S. passport to travel to all Central and South American countries with 

the exception of Panama and short stays in French Guiana. (Panama and French Guiana require proof 

of U.S. citizenship such as a birth certificate or passport. However, the U.S. Embassy in Panama 

encourages U.S. citizens to travel to Panama using their U.S. passports.) Visa requirements for U.S. 

citizens vary from country to country. Certain countries do not require a visa for a short tourist stay. For 

some, you need to obtain a tourist card from the airline office or at the destination airport. Other 

countries require you to obtain a visa in advance from that country's embassy or consulate. Some 

places have additional entry requirements such as proof of sufficient funds and/or onward or return 

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tickets. If you do NOT meet the entry requirements upon arrival in a country, you will not be admitted 

and will have to leave on the next plane. 

In addition, most Central and South American countries require a departure tax. If you are departing to 

a neighboring country, the tax may be small, but if you are returning to the U.S., the tax could be fairly 

substantial per person, regardless of age. Be sure to have enough money at the end of your trip to be 

able to pay the departure tax so you can get on the plane!

For authoritative information on a country's entry and exit requirements, contact its embassy or 

consulate (see the list of foreign embassies at the end of this pamphlet). When you make your 

inquiries, ask about:

-- where to obtain a tourist card or visa;

-- visa price, length of validity, and number of entries;

-- financial requirements: proof of sufficient funds, proof of onward or return ticket;

-- special requirements for children traveling alone or with only one parent (see below);

-- health requirements;

-- currency regulations: how much local or dollar currency can be brought in or out;

-- export/import restrictions; and

-- departure tax: how much and who must pay.

RESTRICTIONS ON MINORS

Many countries impose restrictions on minor children who travel alone, with only one parent, with 

someone who is not their parent or who are nationals of the country, including dual nationals. A child 

must present written authorization for travel from the absent parent, parents, or legal guardian. If the 

parent or guardian traveling with the child is the sole custodian, the court order granting custody may, 

in some cases, serve as the authorization document. For certain countries, the documentation must be 

translated into Spanish or Portuguese and/or authenticated at the embassy of the country in question 

before departure from the U.S. 

If any of this applies to you, inquire about the following at the embassy or consulate of the country your 

child plans to visit:

-- the age of majority at which the restriction no longer applies (i.e., age 15 in Argentina, age 18 in 

Brazil);

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-- the type of document that can overcome the restriction (i.e., court order, statement of absent parent 

or parents);

-- whether notarizing the document is sufficient or if it must also be authenticated by the country's 

embassy or consulate;

-- whether the document must be translated.

-- whether the permission of the mother, father or both parents is required.

BRINGING YOUR OWN CAR, PLANE OR BOAT

If you plan to drive to Central or South America or arrive in a private plane or boat, contact the 

embassy or consulate of each country you plan to visit to learn what is required for entry and exit. You 

may not be able to enter certain countries unless you have had your vehicle documented by that 

country's embassy or consulate before you leave the United States. Besides title and ownership, at 

most borders you will need to show insurance coverage effective for the country you are entering. If 

your U.S. insurance does not cover you abroad, you can usually purchase insurance when you enter a 

country. In some countries, if you are involved in an accident that causes injury, you will automatically 

be taken into police custody until it can be determined who is liable and whether you have the 

insurance or financial ability to pay any judgment. There may also be criminal liability assigned if the 

injuries or damages are serious. 

If you are a visitor, you will not ordinarily have to pay import duty on your car, but you may have to post 

a bond or otherwise satisfy customs officials that you will not sell or dispose of the vehicle in the 

country. Before you get behind the wheel, be sure you are in compliance with the automobile import 

regulations of your destination country or countries.

If driving, check the Consular Information Sheet for information regarding security threats that might be 

encountered on the highway. You should also keep in mind that in many countries road conditions and 

local drivers' concern for safety fall far short of what is customary in the U.S.

HEALTH

Information for travelers on health precautions, immunizations and areas with specific health issues 

can be obtained from local health departments, private doctors, travel clinics or the Centers for 

Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta, Georgia (CDC). The CDC can be reached by telephone at 

404-332-4559, or, you can visit their home page on the Internet at http://www.cdc.gov. General 

guidance can be found in the U.S. Public Health Service book, Health Information for International 

Travel, available for $14.00 from the U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.

Insurance. Review your health insurance policy. If it does not cover you abroad, consider purchasing 

insurance that does. Also consider obtaining insurance to cover the very high cost of medical 

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evacuation in the event of accident or serious illness.

Insects. Mosquito avoidance measures, if used day and night, may help prevent malaria and other 

less prevalent insect-borne diseases found in parts of Central and South America.

Food. Throughout most of Central and South America, fruits and vegetables should be washed with 

care and meats and fish thoroughly cooked. Water is generally not potable and should be boiled or 

chemically treated. Diarrhea caused by contaminated food or water is potentially serious. If it persists, 

seek medical attention.

Beaches. Certain beaches in the region are dangerously polluted. Avoid swimming at beaches that 

might be contaminated with human sewage or dog feces. Swimming in fresh water in the areas where 

schistosomiasis is found should also be avoided.

Mountains. Visitors in the Andes may experience symptoms of altitude sickness such as insomnia, 

headache, and nausea. If you become sick, descend to a lower altitude if possible. Mountaineers 

should learn about the symptoms of high altitude pulmonary edema, a condition that is fatal unless 

remedied by immediate descent.

Another hazard of high altitudes is sunburn. Exposure to ultraviolet radiation increases not only as you 

approach the equator, but also as you ascend in altitude. Sunscreens may help prevent this.

SAFETY TIPS - CRIME

As in a number of places around the world, crime in many parts of Central and South America seems 

to be increasing. Visitors should take common sense precautions: 

-- Safety begins when you pack. Leave expensive jewelry behind. Dress conservatively; a flashy 

wardrobe or one that is too casual can mark you as a tourist. Use travelers checks, not cash. Leave 

photocopies of your passport personal information page and your airline tickets with someone at home 

and carry an extra set with you.

-- Use a money belt or a concealed money pouch for passports, cash and other valuables.

-- In a car, keep doors locked, windows rolled up and valuables out of sight. A common trick is for a 

thief to reach through a car window and grab a watch from a persons wrist or a purse or package from 

the seat while you are driving slowly or stopped in traffic.

-- When you leave your car, try to find a guarded parking lot. Lock the car and keep valuables out of 

sight.

-- When walking, avoid marginal areas of cities, dark alleys and crowds. Do not stop if you are 

approached on the street by strangers, including street vendors and beggars. Be aware that women 

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and small children, as well as men, can be pickpockets or purse snatchers. Keep your billfold in an 

inner front pocket, carry your purse tucked securely under your arm, and wear the shoulderstrap of 

your camera or bag across your chest. To guard against thieves on motorcycles, walk away from the 

curb, carrying your purse away from the street.

-- Use official taxi stands rather than cruising taxis. Illegal taxis can be decoys for robbers.

-- Whenever possible, do not travel alone. If you travel in isolated areas, go with a group or a reputable 

guide.

-- Avoid travel at night.

-- Do not take valuables to the beach.

Any U.S. citizen who is criminally assaulted should report the incident to the local police and to the 

nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.

SAFETY TIPS - CIVIL UNREST

Some countries in Latin America experience periodic political violence aimed at national government 

targets or even at foreigners. In a number of countries, kidnapping for political and/or profit motives is 

widespread and U.S. citizens sometimes fall victim. In addition to checking the latest Consular 

Information Sheets, Travel Warnings and Public Announcements, you may also want to contact the U.

S. embassy in the country or countries you plan to visit for the most up-to-date information on the 

security situation. 

Always carry your papers with you and do not overstay the validity of your visa or tourist card.

Avoid public demonstrations. Travelers can accidentally become injured if caught up in them. Also, 

American citizens have been arrested when local authorities have thought they were participating in 

civil demonstrations. If you are detained or arrested for any reason, ask to speak with a U.S. consular 

officer.

DRUG AND FIREARMS OFFENSES

Most Central and South American countries strictly enforce laws against the use, possession and sale 

of narcotics. Foreigners arrested for possession of even small amounts of narcotics are generally 

charged and tried as international traffickers. There is no bail, judicial delays are lengthy, and you can 

spend 2 to 4 years in prison awaiting trial and sentencing. If you carry prescription drugs, keep them in 

their original container, clearly labeled with the doctors name, pharmacy and contents. Check with the 

embassy of the country you plan to visit for specific customs requirements for prescription drugs. 

Laws concerning importation and possession of firearms can also be strict, with stiff penalties for 

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violations. U.S. citizens who legally keep weapons in their boat or car in the U.S. sometimes forget to 

remove them before arrival in a foreign country, resulting in imprisonment.

PHOTOGRAPHY

Be cautious when taking pictures. Local authorities in many Central and South American countries 

consider all airports, police stations, military locations, oil installations, harbors, mines and bridges to 

be security-related. Photography of demonstrations or civil disturbances is also usually prohibited. 

Tourists have had their film confiscated and have been detained for trying to take these types of 

pictures. When in doubt about whether you can take a picture, ask first.

U.S. WILDLIFE REGULATIONS

Endangered species and products made from them may not be brought into the United States. The 

penalty is confiscation and a possible fine. These items are prohibited from import: virtually all birds 

originating in Brazil, Ecuador, Paraguay, and Venezuela; furs from spotted cats; most lizard-skin 

products from Brazil and Paraguay; many snakeskin products from Brazil, Ecuador, and Paraguay; 

skins from the Orinoco crocodile; and all sea turtle products.

SHOPPING FOR ANTIQUES

Most countries in Central and South America control the export of objects from their pre-Columbian 

and colonial heritage. This may also include relics and/or reproductions of antiques. Some countries 

claim ownership of all such material and consider the export of antiques, without the permission of the 

government, to be an act of theft. In addition, under U.S. law, importers of all pre-Columbian 

monumental and architectural sculpture, murals and certain archaeological and ethnological materials 

are required to provide proof to the U.S. Customs Service that these artifacts are legally exported from 

the country of origin. Beware of purchasing artifacts unless they are accompanied by an export permit 

issued by the government of origin.

DUAL NATIONALITY

Some countries in Central and South America do not recognize acquisition of U.S. citizenship unless 

the naturalized U.S. citizen renounces his or her original nationality at an embassy or consulate of the 

country of origin. A person born in the United States of a parent or parents who were citizens of 

another country may also be considered by that country to be their national. If arrested, a dual national 

may be denied the right to communicate with the U.S. embassy or consulate. Dual nationals may also 

be forced to serve in the military of their former country, or they may not be allowed to depart the 

country when their visit is over. 

If you are a naturalized U.S. citizen, a dual national or have any reason to believe another country may 

consider you its national, check with the embassy of that country as to your citizenship status and any 

obligations you may have while visiting. When you research your citizenship status, bear in mind the 

purpose of your planned trip can affect your status. Your acquired U.S. citizenship may be recognized 

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by your former country if you only visit there. If, however, you take up residence, the country may 

consider you as having resumed your former nationality. This can happen even if the embassy of the 

country has stamped a visa in your U.S. passport.

Dual nationals should also be aware that they may be required to use a passport from their country of 

origin to enter or leave that country. The U.S. Government does not object to the use of a foreign 

passport in such situations. U.S. citizens may not, however, use a foreign passport to enter or leave 

the United States and must travel on their U.S. passports.

If you have any questions about dual nationality, contact the Office of Overseas Citizens Services, 

Room 4811, Department of State, Washington, D.C. 20520.

ADOPTING A CHILD ABROAD

While most foreign adoptions are processed without significant difficulty, in some instances and in 

some countries U.S. citizens have experienced problems when attempting to adopt children from some 

Central or South American countries. Several countries in the region have either outlawed adoptions 

by foreigners or passed a law requiring formal court adoption of the child in the country before the child 

is permitted to emigrate to the U.S. These changes have lessened the potential for legal challenges to 

the adoption, but have not necessarily streamlined the procedures for U.S. citizens. 

Any citizen interested in adopting a child from a country in Central or South America is encouraged to 

contact either the U.S. embassy in the country, or, in the United States, the Department of State's 

Office of Children's Issues (telephone 202-736-7000) to obtain information on the adoption process in 

that country.

INFORMATION ON SPECIFIC COUNTRIESArgentina

Argentina is a medium income nation with a developing economy. The quality of facilities for tourism 

varies according to price and area. U.S. citizens who are also citizens of Argentina (dual nationals) 

should call the Argentine Embassy or nearest consulate to clarify their status and to obtain the latest 

information and requirements for travel.

Belize

Belize is a developing country. Facilities for tourism vary in quality.

Bolivia

Bolivia is a developing nation with a slowly growing economy. Facilities for tourism are adequate but 

vary greatly in quality. Roads outside the major cities are frequently unpaved. Rail transportation is 

below standard. In addition to the American Embassy in La Paz, you may also seek assistance at two 

consular agencies, one located in Santa Cruz and the other in Cochabamba.

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Brazil

Brazil has a developing economy. Facilities for tourism are good in the major cities, but vary in quality 

in remote areas. Those arriving in Brazil without a visa are usually required to depart on the next 

available flight. Minors (under 18) traveling alone, with one parent or with a third party must present 

written authorization by the absent parent(s) or legal guardian, specifically granting permission to travel 

alone, with one parent or with a third party. This authorization must be notarized, authenticated by the 

Brazilian Embassy or nearest consulate, and translated into Portuguese.

Street crime is a problem in Brazil, especially in areas surrounding hotels, bars, nightclubs, 

discotheques and other establishments where visitors tend to gather, including locations adjacent to 

the main beach areas in Rio. In addition to the American Embassy in Brasilia, you may seek 

assistance at the Consulates General located in Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo, the Consulate in 

Recife and the Consular Agencies in Belem, Manaus and Salvador de Bahia.

Chile

Chile has a stable government and a strong economy. Civil disorder is rare. Tourist facilities vary 

according to price and area. American citizens are required to pay a "processing fee" of $20 in U.S. 

currency (exact change) at the international airport check in point. Those considering scientific, 

technical or mountaineering activities in areas classified as frontier areas are required to obtain 

authorization from the Chilean government. Requests for authorization must be presented to Chilean 

authorities at least 90 days prior to the beginning of the expedition. The portions of Antarctica claimed 

by Chile are exempt from these pre-approval requirements.

Colombia

There is a Travel Warning in effect for Colombia. Colombia is one of the most dangerous countries in 

the world. Violence affects a significant portion of the country. As a result, all in-country travel, both 

official and private, to all destinations by U.S. government employees is restricted. Kidnapping for 

ransom and political purposes is increasing in Colombia. In recent years, several U.S. citizens have 

been kidnapped, and two U.S. citizen kidnap victims were killed.

If you must travel to Colombia, a valid U.S. passport and a return or onward ticket are required. U.S. 

citizens do not require entry visas for stays of less than 30 days. Stiff fines are imposed if passports 

are not stamped on arrival and if stays exceeding 30 days are not authorized by the Colombian 

Immigration Agency (DAS Extranjeria). Minors under 18 traveling alone, with one parent or with a third 

party must present written authorization from the absent parent or legal guardian. The authorization 

must be notarized, authenticated and translated into Spanish. Minors must also present a notarized 

copy of their birth certificate. If the child was born in the United States, the birth certificate must be 

notarized by a Colombian consulate within the U.S. If the child was born in Colombia, the birth 

certificate must have been issued by a Colombian notary.

Costa Rica

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Costa Rica is a developing country. Tourist facilities, particularly in the capital, are generally adequate. 

It is strongly recommended that U.S. citizens use a valid U.S. passport to enter Costa Rica. U.S. 

citizens must have an onward or return ticket. Kidnapping of foreigners is on the increase. Money 

exchangers on the street pass off counterfeit U.S. dollars and local currency. Credit card fraud is 

growing.

Ecuador

Ecuador has a developing economy. Tourist facilities are adequate but vary in quality. Avoid the areas 

within approximately 30 miles of the Colombian border because of criminal and Colombian guerrilla 

violence. Refer to the Consular Information Sheet for further details. There are numberous traffic 

accidents involving buses. Bus travel throughout Ecuador can be particularly dangerous because of 

the frequency of crimes perpetrated against bus travelers. Kidnappings of foreigners, including 

Americans, is on the rise. Maritime safety standards on some tour vessels to the Galapagos Islands 

are deficient. It may be useful to verify the credentials of tour vessels in advance. Under provision of 

Ecuadorian law, a business dispute that would normally be handled by civil litigation in the U.S. may be 

converted into a criminal proceeding. This provision of law has been used to impose travel prohibitions 

against resident Americans and has resulted in U.S. businesspersons being arrested.

El Salvador

El Salvador has a developing economy. Tourist facilities are not fully developed. Credit cards are 

widely accepted. The Salvadoran constitution prohibits foreigners from participating in domestic 

political activities, including public demonstrations. The government of El Salvador considers such 

involvement to be a violation of the participant's tourist visa status. Mine removal efforts have ended, 

but land mines and unexploded ammunition in back country regions still pose a threat to off-the-road 

tourists, backpackers and campers. Currently, it is extremely difficult for prospective adoptive parents 

to begin adoption proceedings in El Salvador.

French Guiana

French Guiana, which is an overseas department of France, is a sparsely populated wilderness. 

Tourist facilities are available, but in some instances are not highly developed.

Guatemala

Guatemala has a developing economy. Except for luxury hotels in major cities and tourist destinations, 

tourist facilities are not fully developed. U.S. citizens whose passports are lost or stolen in Guatemala 

must obtain a new passport and present it along with a police report of the loss or theft to the main 

immigration office in Guatemala City to obtain permission to depart. Identification must be carried at all 

times.

In the past, unfounded rumors that foreigners are involved in the theft of children for the purpose of 

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using their organs in transplants have led to threats and incidents of mob violence in parts of 

Guatemala. If you visit areas outside of the major tourist and business destinations, there is a greater 

likelihood, albeit small, of such an incident. The risk is also increased for tourists who have contact with 

Guatemalan children. Adoptive parents, in particular, are encouraged to travel within Guatemala 

without their adoptive children or to limit such travel when possible.

There have been sporadic terrorist incidents during periods surrounding key political events. Violent 

crime is a very serious and growing problem throughout the country, including murder, rape and 

kidnapping. U.S. citizens have been among the victims. Night travel between cities anywhere in 

Guatemala is extremely dangerous.

Guyana

Guyana is a developing nation. Except for hotels in the capital city of Georgetown, tourist facilities are 

not fully developed. Road conditions throughout the country are poor. Bring prescription medicine 

sufficient for your length of stay and be aware that Guyana's humid climate may affect some 

medicines. Many birds are protected species. Visitors wishing to take a tropical bird back to the U.S. 

need to obtain quarantine space in advance from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Animal and 

Plant Inspection Service. Proof that space has been reserved for the bird in the U.S. must be 

presented to the Guyana Ministry of Agriculture before permission for export will be given.

Honduras

Honduras has a developing economy. Tourist facilities are generally adequate, but vary in quality. 

Judicial delays are common. Suspected criminals, including U.S. citizens, have been detained for 

years without trial or sentencing. Although safe bottled water is widely available, tap water is not 

potable in Honduras and should be boiled or chemically treated to help prevent cholera and 

gastrointestinal disorders. Medical care is limited, particularly outside of Tegucigalpa and San Pedro 

Sula. It is usually impossible for visitors to cash personal checks in Honduras. It is also extremely 

difficult to arrange for the transfer of funds from abroad to Honduras, especially to the Bay Islands, 

where banking facilities are limited. If you travel to rural areas and to the border regions near 

Guatemala, El Salvador and Nicaragua, exercise caution because armed bands have operated in 

these areas.

Nicaragua

Nicaragua has a developing economy and lacks an extensive tourist infrastructure. Travelers checks 

are accepted at a few major hotels and may be exchanged for local currency at authorized exchange 

facilities. Although many restaurants and hotels now accept credit cards, acceptance is not as 

widespread as in the U.S. Travel in remote areas in the northern and central departments is strongly 

discouraged because of violent crime.

Panama

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Panama has a developing economy. Outside the Panama City area, tourist facilities vary in quality. 

The Pan American Highway ends at Yaviza in the Darien Province, and the final portion from Chepo to 

Yaviza is reasonably passable only during the dry season (January-April). If you plan to travel to South 

America by car, you may wish to take the automobile ferry "Crucero-Express" to Cartagena, Colombia, 

or ship your car on a freighter. Travel beyond Yaviza may be dangerous, and there is no Panamanian 

police presence in much of Darien Province, which is known to be frequented by guerrillas, smugglers, 

and undocumented aliens.

Paraguay

Paraguay is a medium income nation with a developing economy. Tourist facilities are good in 

Asuncion, poor in other major cities and almost nonexistent in remote areas. Minors under 20 traveling 

alone, with one parent or with a third party must present written authorization from the absent parent(s) 

or legal guardian, which grants permission to travel alone, with one parent or a third party. The 

authorization will need to be notarized and translated into Spanish. Due to serious problems in the 

international adoption process in Paraguay, including chronic unpredictability in the issuance of final 

decrees, uncertainty over case processing and prospects for proposed new adoption regulations, 

prospective adoptive parents are strongly urged to postpone any commitment to adopt a Paraguayan 

child until such time as the adoption situation is clarified.

Peru

Peru is a developing country with significant tourist and commercial activity. The quality of tourist 

facilities varies, depending on cost and location. The U.S. Embassy has placed restrictions on official 

travel of U.S. government employees to several areas because terrorist groups and narcotics 

traffickers continue to use violence. (For information on the restricted areas, please consult the 

Consular Information Sheet on Peru.) If you visit places high in the Andes, such as Cuzco and Puno, 

you should be aware of the effects of high altitude and the sickness it can cause. In addition to the 

American Embassy in Lima, you may seek assistance at the Consular Agency located in Cuzco. 

Suriname

Suriname is a developing nation. Transportation, communications and other infrastructure elements do 

not meet U.S. standards. Roads in the interior are poorly maintained and often impassable. Tourist 

facilities vary, depending on price and area. The government of Suriname and private tourism 

companies have expanded tourism in the interior by establishing several guest houses and tour 

packages. Visitors to Suriname who are injured or become ill during their visit will not be admitted to 

the only hospital with emergency and intensive care facilities unless they pay an advance deposit 

equal to ten days stay (payable only in U.S. dollars) or provide proof of adequate insurance coverage 

in a form the hospital will accept. You may experience disruptions in travel plans due to the varying 

scheduled airline service to and from Suriname.

Uruguay

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Uruguay is a medium income nation with a developing economy. The quality of tourist facilities varies 

according to price and area.

Venezuela

Venezuela is a middle income country with a well developed transportation infrastructure. Scheduled 

air service and good all-weather roads, some poorly marked and congested around urban centers, 

connect major cities and all regions of the country. Its tourism infrastructure varies in quality according 

to location and price. If you do not have a Venezuelan identity card, you will need to carry your U.S. 

passport with you at all times. Certain areas along the border with Colombia have travel restrictions. If 

you visit those areas, you may be subject to search and seizure. Foreign exchange transactions must 

take place through commercial banks and exchange houses at the official rate. Credit cards are 

accepted at most tourist establishments. Outside of major cities, Venezuelan currency is required for 

most transactions. Visitors departing Venezuela can exchange local currency up to $5,000.

FOREIGN EMBASSIES IN THE UNITED STATES

Embassy of ARGENTINA

1718 Connecticut Ave., N.W. 

Washington, DC 20009 

(202) 797-8826

Embassy of BELIZE

2535 Massachusetts Ave., N.W. 

Washington, DC 20008 

(202) 332-9636

Embassy of BOLIVIA

Consular Section 

3014 Massachusetts Ave., N.W. 

Washington, DC 20008 

(202) 232-4828 or 483-4410

Embassy of BRAZIL

Consular Section 

3009 Whitehaven St., N.W. 

Washington, DC 20008 

(202) 745-2820 or 745-2831

Embassy of CHILE

1732 Massachusetts Ave., N.W. 

Washington, DC 20036 

(202) 785-1746

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Embassy of COLOMBIA

2118 Leroy Place, N.W. 

Washington, DC 20008 

(202) 387-8338

Embassy of COSTA RICA

2112 S St., N.W. 

Washington, DC 20008 

(202) 234-2945

Embassy of ECUADOR

2535 15th St., N.W. 

Washington, DC 20009 

(202) 234-7200

Embassy of EL SALVADOR

2308 California St., N.W. 

Washington, DC 20008 

(202) 265-9671

FRENCH GUIANA

Embassy of France 

4101 Reservoir Road, N.W. 

Washington, DC 20007 

(202) 944-6187

Embassy of GUATEMALA

2220 R St., N.W. 

Washington, DC 20008-4081 

(202) 745-4952

Embassy of GUYANA

2490 Tracy Place, N.W. 

Washington, DC 20008 

(202) 265-6900 or 265-6903

Embassy of HONDURAS

Consular Section 

Suite 310 

1612 K St., N.W. 

Washington, DC 20006 

(202) 223-0185

Embassy of NICARAGUA

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1627 New Hampshire Ave., N.W. 

Washington, DC 20009 

(202) 939-6531 or 939-6532

Embassy of PANAMA

2862 McGill Terrace, N.W. 

Washington, DC 20008 

(202) 483-1407

Embassy of PARAGUAY

2400 Massachusetts Ave., N.W. 

Washington, DC 20008 

(202) 483-6960

Embassy of PERU

1700 Massachusetts Ave., N.W. 

Washington, DC 20036 

(202) 833-9860 through 9869

Embassy of SURINAME

4301 Connecticut Ave., N.W. 

Suite 108 

Washington, DC 20008 

(202) 244-7488

Embassy of URUGUAY

1918 F Street, N.W. 

Washington, DC 20008 

(202) 331-1313 through 1316 or (202) 331-4219

Embassy of VENEZUELA

1099 30th Street, N.W. 

Washington, DC 20007 

(202) 342-2214

U.S. EMBASSIES AND CONSULATES ABROAD

ARGENTINA

American Embassy 

4300 Colombia 

1425 Buenos Aires 

Tel: (54)(1) 777-4533 and 777-4534 

Fax: (54)(1) 777-0197

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Mailing address:

American Embassy 

APO AA 34034

BELIZE

American Embassy 

Gabourel Lane and Hutson St. 

Belize City 

Tel: (501)(2) 77161 through 77163 

Fax: (501)(2) 30802

Mailing address:

American Embassy 

APO AA 34025

BOLIVIA

American Embassy La Paz 

Avenue Arce No. 2780 

La Paz 

Tel: (591)(2) 430251 

Fax: (591)(2) 433854

Mailing address:

American Embassy 

APO AA 34032

BRAZIL

American Embassy 

Avenida das Nacoes, Lote 3 

Brasilia 

Tel: (55)(61) 321-7272 

Fax: (55)(61) 225-9136

Mailing address:

American Embassy 

Unit 3500 

APO AA 34030

American Consulate General 

Rio de Janeiro 

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Avenida Presidente Wilson 

147 Castelo 

Rio de Janeiro 

Tel: (55)(21) 292-7117 

Fax: (55)(21) 220-0439

Mailing address:

American Consulate General 

Rio de Janeiro 

Unit 3501 

APO AA 34030

American Consulate General 

Sao Paulo 

Rua Padre Joao Manoel, 933 

Sao Paulo 

Tel: (55)(11) 881-6511 

Fax: (55)(11) 852-5154

Mailing address:

American Consulate General 

Sao Paulo 

P.O. Box 8063 

APO AA 34030

American Consulate Recife 

Rua Goncalves Maia, 163 

Recife 

Tel: (55)(81) 421-2441 

Fax: (55)(81) 231-1906

Mailing address:

American Consulate Recife 

APO AA 34030

CHILE

American Embassy 

Av. Andres Bello 2800 

Santiago 

Tel: (56)(2) 232-2600 

Fax: (56)(2) 330-3710

Mailing address:

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American Embassy 

U.S. Department of State 

Washington, DC 20521-3460

COLOMBIA

American Embassy 

Calle 22D-BIS, No. 47-51 

Ave. El Dorado & Carrera 50 

Bogota 

Tel: (57)(1) 315-0811 

Fax: (57)(1) 315-2197

Mailing address:

American Embassy 

APO AA 34038

COSTA RICA

American Embassy 

Pavas 

San Jose 

Tel: (506) 220-3939 

Fax: (506) 220-2305

Mailing address:

American Embassy 

APO AA 34020

ECUADOR

American Embassy 

Avenida 12 de Octubre y Avenida Patria 

Quito 

Tel: (593)(2) 562-890 

Fax: (593)(2) 502-052

Mailing address:

American Embassy 

APO AA 34039-3420

American Consulate General 

9 de Octubre y Garcia Moreno 

Guayaquil 

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Tel: (593)(4) 323-570 

Fax: (593)(4) 325-286

Mailing address:

American Consulate General 

APO AA 34039

EL SALVADOR

American Embassy 

Final Blvd. Santa Elena 

Antiguo Cuscatlan 

San Salvador 

Tel: (503) 278-4444 

Fax: (503) 278-6011

Mailing Address:

American Embassy 

APO AA 34023

FRENCH GUIANA

American Embassy 

Dr. Sophie Redmondstraat 129 

Paramaribo, Suriname 

Tel: (597) 472-900 

Fax: (597) 410-972

GUATEMALA

American Embassy 

7-01 Avenida de la Reforma 

Zone 10 

Guatemala 

Tel: (502) 331-1541 

Fax: (502) 331-0564

Mailing Address:

American Embassy 

Unit 3303 

APO AA 34024

GUYANA

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American Embassy 

99-100 Young and Duke Streets 

Kingstown, Georgetown 

Tel: (592)(2) 54900-9 

Fax: (592)(2) 58497

Mailing Address:

American Embassy 

U.S. Department of State 

Washington, DC 20521-3170

HONDURAS

American Embassy 

Avenido La Paz 

Tegucigalpa 

Tel: (504) 36-9320 or 38-5114 

Fax: (504) 37-1792 (Consular fax))

Mailing Address:

American Embassy 

Unit 2909 

APO AA 34022

NICARAGUA

American Embassy 

Km. 4-1/2 Carretera Sur 

Managua 

Tel: (505)(2) 66010 through 666013 

Fax: (505)(2) 669074

Mailing Address:

American Embassy 

APO AA 34021

PANAMA

American Embassy 

Apartado 6959 Panama 5 

Panama City 

Tel: (507) 227-1777 

Fax: (507) 227-1964

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Mailing Address:

American Embassy 

APO AA 34002

PARAGUAY

American Embassy 

1776 Mariscal Loipez Avenida 

Asuncion 

Tel: (595)(21) 213-715 

Fax: (595)(21) 213-728

Mailing Address:

American Embassy 

Unit 4711 

APO AA 34036-0001

PERU

American Embassy 

Consular Section 

Av. La Encalada s/n 

Block 17 

Monterrico 

Lima33, Lima 

Tel: (51)(1) 434-3000 

Fax: (51)(1) 434-3037

Mailing Address:

Consular Section 

Unit 3740 

APO AA 34031

SURINAME

American Embassy 

Dr. Sophie Redmondstraat 129 

Paramaribo 

Tel: (597) 472900 

Fax: (597) 410972

Mailing Address:

AmEmb Paramaribo 

Department of State 

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Washington, DC 20521-3390

URUGUAY

American Embassy 

Lauro Muller 1776 

Montevideo 

Tel: (598)(2) 23-60-61 

Fax: (598)(2) 48-86-11

Mailing Address:

American Embassy 

APO AA 34035

VENEZUELA

American Embassy 

Calle F con Calle Suapure 

Colinas de Valle Arriba 

Caracas 

Tel: (58)(2) 977-2011 

Fax: (58)(2) 977-0843

Mailing Address:

American Embassy 

APO AA 34037

Planning Another Trip?

For general travel information, the following pamphlets may be ordered from the Superintendent of 

Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20420, tel. 202-512-1800:

Your Trip Abroad

A Safe Trip Abroad 

Tips for Americans Residing Abroad 

Travel Tips for Older Americans 

Tips for Travelers to Canada

Tips for Travelers to the Caribbean

Tips for Travelers to Mexico 

Tips for Travelers to the Middle East and North Africa

Tips for Travelers to the People's Republic of China

Tips for Travelers to Russia and the Newly Independent States

Tips for Travelers to South Asia 

Tips for Travelers to Sub-Saharan Africa

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Prices and availability are subject to change without notice. Please check with the Government Printing 

Office for more information.

General entry and visa information for these and other countries are available in Foreign Entry 

Requirements. Information on how, when and where to apply for your U.S. passport is provided in 

Passports: Applying for Them the Easy Way. Both publications may be ordered from the Consumer 

Information Center, Pueblo, Colorado 81009.

Travel Publications

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