A passport and visa are required. Brazilian visas must be obtained in advance. Immigration authorities do not allow entry into Brazil without a valid visa. This authorization must be notarized, authenticated by the Brazilian Embassy or nearest Brazilian consulate, and translated into Portuguese. Travelers may also contact the Brazilian consulates in Boston, Houston, Atlanta, Miami, New York, Chicago or San Juan.
Medical care varies in quality, particularly in remote areas.
Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services. U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States. In some cases, medical insurance with specific overseas and medical evacuation coverage has proven useful. The incidence of crime against tourists tends to be greater in areas surrounding hotels, discotheques, bars, nightclubs and other similar establishments that cater to visitors, especially at dusk and during the evening hours. Incidents of theft on city buses are frequent, and such transportation should be avoided.