Is Salvador safe to visit right now? (November 2026)

Travel advisories for Brazil

What the advice says

• The US State Department rates Brazil at Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution (dated August 31, 2026). This advisory is issued at the country level, not specifically for Salvador.
• The UK FCDO advice, last updated October 28, 2026, is also country-level rather than city-specific, though it notes that this guide includes safety advice for regions of Brazil.
• The FCDO warns of a high global threat of terrorism affecting British nationals and notes that terrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in Brazil, potentially including crowded places and public gatherings. Travelers should stay aware of surroundings and follow local authority instructions.
• Favelas exist in all major Brazilian cities and can border tourist areas; the FCDO advises avoiding all favelas, including favela tours and any accommodation, restaurants, or bars advertised as being within a favela, since tourists have been shot after accidentally entering them.
• Robberies are common in many Brazilian cities, particularly on buses, with mobile phones a frequent target between 4pm and 9pm. On beaches, theft including group 'arrastoes' has been reported, and the FCDO advises against going to city beaches after dark and against taking valuables to the beach.
• Bank and credit card scams, including ATM card cloning, are common, and dating apps have been used by criminals to target foreign nationals, leading to drink spiking and theft. The FCDO also reports deaths from methanol poisoning in alcoholic drinks and advises caution with spirit-based drinks.
• Short-term 'express kidnapping,' where victims are forced to withdraw cash from ATMs, has occurred in Brazil. Protests and demonstrations can turn violent, with police reported to use rubber bullets and tear gas, so the FCDO advises avoiding political rallies and large crowds.