Canada Warns Travelers as Crime and Health Risks Rise in Brazil and Beyond
Canadian travelers are facing new warnings this summer, after the government rolled out a fresh wave of travel advisories touching several major tourist and business destinations. Brazil stands at the center of this update, but travelers to Mexico, the United States, India, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, China, South Africa, and other countries have also been urged to raise their guard.
The advisory, released on June 4, 2025, doesn't outright forbid travel, but it’s clear: the world’s risks are shifting, and those who hit the road—or the skies—need to be more careful. For those heading to Brazil, officials are blunt about the dangers. Urban centers are seeing ongoing safety issues, with organized crime driving much of the instability. Regions near national borders, already known for spotty law enforcement and cross-border smuggling, pose extra risks.
This Canadian alert comes hot on the heels of a similar one issued by the U.S. Department of State just days earlier. The U.S. specifically called out kidnapping as a new risk indicator for Brazil, underscoring the real threat travelers could face, even in places that feel familiar or popular with tourists. Combine that with reports of robberies, express kidnappings, and occasional violent incidents, and it’s no wonder why officials urge people to stay on their toes.
Crime, Health Issues, and Smart Strategies for Staying Safe
The reach of Canada’s advisory isn’t limited to Brazil. The update also singles out dangers in places like Trinidad and Tobago, where pickpocketing and theft happen most often near slow traffic and intersections—think of those times the car stops in thick city congestion and windows are left down. Other destinations, such as India, Mexico, and South Africa, are also drawing concern for street crime, scams, and the threat of random violence. Across all affected countries, the top advice is practical: stick to well-lit areas, don't travel alone at night, and always secure valuables. That means double-checking your passport, tucking away electronics, and keeping a close eye on your bag.
Crime isn’t the only challenge. Health is another big reason for caution. Brazil, for example, has recently seen a rise in COVID-19 cases again, alongside a spike in Dengue fever. Outbreaks can spread quickly, especially in crowded urban or rural areas where mosquitoes flourish and healthcare networks are stretched. Travelers are encouraged to stay up to date on vaccinations, carry reliable insect repellent, and check local advisories for sudden outbreaks—no one wants a holiday ruined by fever or a last-minute quarantine.
Canadians aren’t being told to stay home, but the message is clear: know where you’re going, watch how things are shifting day by day, and never assume an old travel pattern is still safe. Demonstrations, surprise transport strikes, and even local curfews can disrupt plans or leave people stranded if they don’t pay attention. Authorities stress the importance of researching destinations before booking flights, keeping tabs on embassies and consular resources, and always having a backup plan, just in case the situation changes overnight.
With global uncertainty running high, travel in 2025 is going to look a lot different from a few years ago. The risks may be higher, but with extra preparation, the adventures are still out there for those who don’t let their guard down.
