Brazil is a thriving, exuberant and exciting country, filled with music, dance and majestic scenery. However, it’s also a large, developing nation with a huge population and equally big wealth divide. Its incredible wildlife and natural environments can be as hazardous as they are enticing, which is almost certainly part of the appeal.

Thanks to Brazil’s hosting of the 2014 football World Cup and 2016 Olympic Games, large scale development has taken place in the country, which has been accompanied by social unrest. This has been largely due to perceived corruption, exploitation and price rises by some parts of the population. 

Brazil’s notorious favelas, or shanty towns, can be dangerous and it is not advised that you explore without a local or experienced guide. The inner city areas of Rio, Sao Paulo and other major urban areas do have high crime rates, particularly around carnival, so it is recommended you take extra care at these times. A common sense attitude goes a long way and as long as you are careful you should have no problems.

Of course, it’s not just the urban environments of Brazil that are potentially dangerous. Animals are referred to as wild creatures as they are just that, and a certain amount of precaution needs to be taken. Travelling to the Pantanal or the Amazon you may come across anacondas, caiman or even the elusive jaguar. Generally, these animals will generally be more afraid of you than you are of them. However, it is always important to keep a safe distance whatever the circumstances. 

Depending on where you are travelling in Brazil, you may need vaccinations. Dengue and yellow fever are common, and some areas of the rainforest are malaria risk zones. Speak to your health care practitioner a few months before your trip to find out more.

As with any travel adventure, there are risks. However, these are far outweighed by the positive experiences you will almost certainly enjoy in Brazil.