A number of violent assaults have been registered in the hotel district in Brasilia in recent years, and it is advisable for visitors staying there to take taxis to their destination when going out at night. Also, the U.S. Embassy has noted that certain areas of the Lago Sul district in Brasilia, where many U.S. citizens live, are prone to being targeted for burglary. Travelers considering taking lodging or establishing a residence in Lago Sul may wish to consult with the U.S. Embassy in advance. The loss or theft of a U.S. passport abroad should be reported immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. Penalties in Brazil for possession, use and trafficking in illegal drugs are strict, and convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences and fines.
Major thoroughfares are crowded, and trucks and buses frequently predominate.
Additionally, roads are often in poor condition. There are more than 30,000 traffic fatalities per year throughout the country, with the majority of accidents reportedly caused by driver error. The U.S. Embassy is located in Brasilia at Avenida das Nacoes, Lote 3, tel. There are U.S. consulates in Rio de Janeiro at Avenida Presidente Wilson 147, tel. There are also consular agencies in Belem at Travessa Padre Eutiquio 1309, tel.