US Issues Strong Advisory for American Tourists Ahead of Brazil Carnival 2026

US Government Warns Against Favelas During Carnival

The United States government issued a significant travel advisory on February 5, 2026, urging American tourists planning to attend Brazil's upcoming Carnival celebrations to avoid favelas, also known as comunidades, at all times. This warning comes as millions of visitors are expected to flock to Brazil for the annual festivities, which are scheduled to take place primarily from February 13 to February 18, 2026.

Detailed Security Concerns for Informal Settlements

The advisory, building on a 'Security Alert: 2026 Carnival Season Reminders' issued by the U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Brazil on January 27, 2026, specifically highlighted the unpredictable and dangerous security situation within favelas. The U.S. government emphasized that these informal housing developments are considered 'hotbeds of criminal activity'. Reports indicate that tourists have been shot after accidentally entering these areas. For U.S. government employees, special authorization is required to travel to such areas, and they are explicitly advised 'Do not travel to informal housing developments, even on guided tours,' as neither tour companies nor police can guarantee safety. The advisory further noted that gang activity and police clashes are widespread and can quickly change the safety landscape, even in areas previously deemed safe.

Broader Safety Recommendations for Tourists

Beyond the specific warning regarding favelas, the U.S. government's alert provided a comprehensive list of safety precautions for American citizens during Carnival. These include:

• Maintaining situational awareness and avoiding walking alone, particularly at night.
• Refraining from wearing expensive jewelry or carrying large amounts of cash.
• Being vigilant against opportunistic crime, such as cell phone theft, which is common during the celebrations.
• Not physically resisting any robbery attempt, as criminals are often armed.
• Exercising caution with beverages, specifically advising against accepting drinks from strangers or leaving drinks unattended, due to concerns about 'drugging and dating scams'.
• Keeping vehicle windows closed and parking in well-lit areas.
• Monitoring local media for the latest security developments.
• Reporting any criminal activity to local police by dialing 190.

Carnival's Vibrant Atmosphere and Associated Risks

Brazil's Carnival is renowned globally for its vibrant parades and street parties, known as 'blocos,' with major events concentrated in cities like Rio de Janeiro, Salvador, and Recife. While the festivities attract millions, the significant increase in crowds also creates an environment ripe for opportunistic criminal activity. Violent crimes, including armed robbery, mugging, and carjacking, are known to escalate during this period, making heightened vigilance crucial for all visitors.