Facilities for tourism are good in the major cities, but vary in quality in remote areas. A passport and visa are required. Brazilian visas must be obtained in advance as immigration authorities will not allow entry into Brazil without a valid visa. This authorization must be notarized, authenticated by the Brazilian embassy or nearest consulate, and translated into Portuguese.
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. Several Brazilian cities have established specialized tourist police units to patrol areas frequented by tourists.