When I went to Brazil, people thought I was crazy. “Is Brazil safe to visit?”
Brazil has a notorious reputation. Beyond Carnival in Rio de Janeiro, a world wonder, the Amazon Rainforest, and a heap of culture and history, it scares a lot of experienced travellers.
I won’t lie, crime in Brazil is a big deal, especially in the major cities. This country is just as famous for injustice, poverty, illegal drugs, and some corrupt local authorities as it is for everything else. Violence, petty theft, and dodgy Uber drivers are not rare. In São Paulo, I even witnessed a fight in the daytime involving a knife.
Did I leave Brazil unscathed? No.
Was that Brazil’s fault? No. I fell down some stairs and broke my back. (It wasn’t that dramatic.)
I loved travelling here and I can’t wait to return! By travelling smart, you can protect your personal safety in ‘unsafe destinations’ like Brazil.
This guide to staying safe in Brazil has advice, tips, and answers to questions that I wish I’d had before I visited. You’ll need your common sense (like always) and a little understanding of the local culture. With that, I’ve got you covered for your Brazil safety.
Photo: @sebagvivas
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There is no such thing as a perfect safety guide, as things change quickly. The question of “Is Brazil Safe?” will ALWAYS have a different answer depending on who you ask.
The information in this safety guide was accurate at the time of writing. If you use our guide, do your own research, and practice common sense, you will probably have a wonderful and safe trip to Brazil.
If you see any outdated information, we would really appreciate it if you could reach out in the comments below. Otherwise, stay safe friends!
Updated June 2024
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- Is it Safe to Visit Brazil Right Now?
- Getting Insured BEFORE Visiting Brazil
- Safest Places in Brazil
- Top Safety Tips for Travelling to Brazil
- Is Brazil Safe to Travel Alone?
- Is Brazil Safe for Solo Female Travellers?
- Is Brazil Safe to Travel for Families?
- Getting Around Brazil Safely
- Crime in Brazil
- What to Pack For Your Brazil Trip
- FAQs on Brazil’s Safety
- So, is Brazil Safe?
- Buy Us a Coffee!
Is it Safe to Visit Brazil Right Now?
Yes, you can travel to Brazil safely. Does that mean you can visit completely carefree? Absolutely not.
According to the Brazilian Government, 2023 saw 6 million tourists pass through this country. The vast majority of visitors have a completely safe trip.
But when we’re talking about safety in Brazil, that’s covering HUGE land from giant metropolises to the untamed wilderness of the Amazon Rainforest. Travelling to Brazil requires extra know-how.
The thing with Brazil is that there is a high rate of violent crime. Though tourists are rarely the target of this, stay especially vigilant during big festivals like Carnival and around non-touristic areas.
Photo: @sebagvivas
Thefts, muggings, and pickpocketing are common, but by practising extra caution, you’re unlikely to have any issues. One of my friends had their wallet stolen – but said friend left their wallet in their back pocket on the Sao Paulo Metro… Don’t be like my friend.
There’s a rise in unrest along the border with Venezuela. The border closed in February 2019 and we strongly advise against travelling anywhere near this area.
Brazil’s weather can be unpredictable. During heavy rains, flooding and landslides can occur.
On the 2023 Global Peace Index, Brazil ranked 132nd on a list of 163 countries. So in terms of general peace, safety, and security, it’s not so hot.
All that being said, it’s still possible to visit Brazil safely so long as you know what you’re doing. Tourism in Brazil has recovered after the pandemic and is key to the Brazilian economy. It’s one of the major South American destinations, and only second in Latin America after Mexico.
Being vigilant, travelling smart, and avoiding certain perilous activities and areas will help to ensure a safe trip. All in all, Brazil is safe to visit right now – with preparations and research.
Getting Insured BEFORE Visiting Brazil
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
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Safest Places in Brazil
When choosing where you’ll be staying in Brazil, a bit of research and caution is essential. You don’t want to end up in a sketchy area and ruin your trip. To help you out, I’ve listed some of the safest areas to visit in Brazil:
Photo: @Lauramcblonde
- Florianópolis – Floripa has pristine beaches, a relaxed pace, and amusements everywhere. The far south of Floripa is totally undeveloped. You can find beaches that are literally abandoned because they require a hike to get to. Lagoinha do Leste is the best example of this phenomenon.
- São Paulo – There are nearly 20 million people living in this major city and although it does have a high crime rate, staying safe in Sao Paulo is reasonably easy.
- Pantanal – The biggest freshwater ecosystem in the world. The chances of seeing animals are huge here. Local wildlife include capybaras, giant anteaters, rheas, jaguars, and lots more! That said, yellow fever is a risk here so make sure you are vaccinated and avoid mosquito bites.
Dangerous Places in Brazil
In order to have a safe visit, it’s important to know the areas in Brazil that aren’t super safe. Keep in mind that Brazil is quite a famous tourist destination, so wherever you are, you will have to watch out for pickpocketing and petty theft.
Always follow recommended travel advice for Brazil and ask someone trustworthy if there are any neighbourhoods or streets to avoid. Be careful using Google Maps; the fastest route isn’t always the safest.
- Porto Alegre – located in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, it’s one of the most dangerous cities in the world due to lots of gang violence and drug wars.
- Salvador – Similar to Porto Alegre, Salvador has a very high crime rate as well. Even locals tend to avoid this city as much as possible.
- Favelas – These are the poorest areas in Brazil. You’ll find most crimes in these areas. While tourists normally don’t end up there, it’s still a good idea to actively stay away
- Anywhere at night – It doesn’t matter where you are in Brazil, it’s always a bad idea to head out at night. Most sketchy characters come out after dark, and you definitely don’t want to meet them. If possible, stay inside or stick with a large group when going on a night out.
It’s important to know that all of the places we’ve just listed CAN be visited but do a lot of research beforehand. Some parts of these cities might be safe, but you simply can’t ignore the high crime rates. While tourists do explore these areas, I’d recommend avoiding them completely if you want a really safe trip.
Quick tip: Plan everything in advance!
Best Brazil Tours: Check out the coolest tours in Brazil
Best Places to Stay in Brazil: Check out top rated hotels and hostels in Brazil
Best Transport in Brazil: Book the best transport in Brazil
Keeping Your Money Safe in Brazil
One of the most common things to happen to you whilst travelling is losing your money. And let’s face it: the most annoying way for this to actually occur is when it’s stolen from you.
Petty crime is pretty much a problem all over the world. The best solution? Get a money belt.
Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.
It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)
Hide Yo’ Money!Top Safety Tips for Travelling to Brazil
Photo: @sebagvivas
You should always follow standard safety protocols wherever you’re travelling. But to help you stay as safe as possible on in Brazil, here are my top safety tips:
- Be aware of your surroundings – especially in major cities.
- Don’t look rich – flashy jewellery, watches, designer handbags, cameras, leave them at home.
- Learn some Portuguese – it will help you get around and communicate with locals.
- Stay away from illegal drugs – avoid dealing with drug trafficking and local authorities.
- Don’t use your while phone walking around – you look like a target.
- Be aware of distraction techniques – even asking for a cigarette can be a way to get you to let your guard down. BEWARE!
- Ask if there are areas you should avoid – hostel staff, shop assistant, local police are good people to ask for the safe areas.
- And don’t go to beaches at night – thieves target these areas.
- Careful when using ATMs – Head to one inside a mall or bank.
- Don’t get political – Steer clear of major events involving politics.
- Exercise increased caution with mosquitoes – cover up and use a DEET-based repellent; dengue fever, yellow fever and zika virus are a risk.
- Watch out for warning flags on beaches – there are often strong currents.
- Monitor local media – watch for weather warnings.
- Be aware of rainy season – in the northeast, it’s from April to July; in the south, it runs from November to March.
- Do research if you’re heading out into the rainforest – it’s a dangerous place, so only the best company will do.
- Hand over the goods – If someone demands your stuff, just give it.
- Get travel insurance – if something goes wrong, you’ll be well covered.
Combination Padlocks
It doesn’t get more essential than this! Not only do they allow you to lock up your backpack wherever and whenever, but they’ll also come in handy if you show up to a room without a lock. The combination style means you don’t have to worry about losing a small key either!
Apple Airtags
This really might be one of the best products Apple has ever made – the peace of mind it will give you when you inevitably have to check a bag is worth the price tag. I’ve found them to be super helpful and reliable, and you can put them in so many different things
Samsung Galaxy Smart Tags
The same epic concept, except for Androids
Garmin inReach Mini 2
This little satellite communication device is a must if you plan to get off the beaten path. It allows you to stay in touch with family and friends even if there’s no cell service, AND it has a SOS feature that can be activated anywhere. It even gives weather updates, a literal lifesaver when off grid.
First Aid Kit
A good first aid kit should always be on your packing list, even if you’re just headed to a resort. It’s good to fill it with essential medicines as well as equipment, you never know when you’ll be caught out!
Photo: @monteiro.online
Yes, you can travel Brazil safely alone. There are SO many benefits to travelling Brazil by yourself. But there are downsides; aside from getting lonely and bored, you’ll be more of a target by yourself.
Don’t worry though; there are plenty of other solo travellers doing what you’re doing in Brazil. And we’re here to help, too, with some solo travel tips to make it a breeze.
- Make friends with Brazilian people. Even if you don’t speak Portuguese, try and chat with a local: strike up a conversation and learn more about this cool country.
- Book yourself into a social hostel. There are loads of good hostels in Brazil. Do your research, read reviews, and stay in a place that’s perfect for you. It’s a good way to get chatting with other travellers and makes some friends.
- Take free walking tours. Get acquainted with the city you’re in and learn more about the area and Brazil as a whole.
- Ask the staff at your hostel for local recommendations.
- Travel light. Packing well helps you to keep tabs on important things. Make sure it’s not too heavy either.
- Don’t walk around by yourself at nighttime. Regardless of gender, this is just ASKING for trouble.
- Don’t take anything unnecessary to the beach. It’s easy for things to go missing/get stolen.
- Keep in touch with people. Let people know of your whereabouts and keep yourself grounded. If you don’t have one, get an eSIM so you’re prepared when you land.
Though it’s a pretty dangerous country in some respects, travelling solo around Brazil is doable and awesome! The cities here are amazing and full of life, the beachside destinations are incredible, the food is immense, the nature is breathtaking, and there’s a chance you’ll have it all to yourself.
Is Brazil Safe for Solo Female Travellers?
Photo: @Lauramcblonde
Yes, most of Brazil is safe for women to travel alone – especially if you stick to the well-trodden routes. Major cities are more liberal, traditional areas… not so much. But just like anywhere else, there are extra safety precautions you should take as a solo female traveller.
So here are some tips to help keep you secure:
- Stay at well-reviewed hostels for women.
- In some places (mainly in northeastern rural areas) there may be curiosity about you travelling alone. Being aware of the varying ethnic and cultural landscape.
- DO NOT hitchhiking by yourself in Brazil. Hitchhiking alone can be risky in some areas so I can’t recommend hitchhiking alone as a woman here.
- Avoid going to bars and clubs by yourself. Find some friends.
- You may receive hassle/unwanted attention. Show disinterest or that you’re not happy with it and it’s likely to stop.
- Keep an eye on your drink and never accept drinks from strangers. Drink spiking happens.
- Also, avoid drinking too much.
- In places like Copacabana and Ipanema, people wear whatever the heck they want – (men included – those speedos!). Other places aren’t so liberal. Look at how other women are dressed to gauge appropriate clothing.
- There are areas in the north and west of the country that seem to be dominated by men. If you’re going to these regions of Brazil, find a travel buddy.
- Never walk home after dark. Use Uber to get around at night. This is the safest way to get around major cities.
- If you’re feeling overwhelmed, book a tour. This is a good way to see the country safely. It’s not a cop-out by any means.
Is Brazil Safe to Travel for Families?
Yes, visiting Brazil with your family is safe. There is a kid-friendly atmosphere in Brazil and it’s a family-based society. It is an awesome destination and it’s definitely going to be an experience for you and your family.
Though, Brazil can be a bit of a challenge, to say the least. There are things to do in Brazil with families, but you will have to plan to ensure things run smoothly.
Photo: @amandadraper
Basics: you’ll want effective insect repellent, anti-malarial medication if you’re going to the Amazon, lots of sunscreen, and clothes that will cover your children up against critters and the sun.
Make sure everyone is appropriately vaccinated. Dengue fever and yellow fever are both present, but mostly in the rainy season (this will differ depending on whether you visit the north & east, south or the Amazon:
- It’s crucial to make sure your kids are eating clean food and keeping hydrated when in Brazil. Small children are more at risk from things like food poisoning.
- Public transport can also bring up issues when travelling with children. Nightmare journeys on hot, sweaty buses versus forking out a lot of money for flights around the country.
- It can be handy to travel around Brazil by car, but you’ll need your own car seats. This can be a lot of hassle, especially for short family trips.
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Grab an eSIM!Getting Around Brazil Safely
How to have a safe trip to Brazil depends on the mode of transport you choose. Flying is probably the safest but the most expensive.
Driving in Brazil is doable, but it can be a headache – especially in cities. You will need an international driving permit. They have a high number of road accidents and weather can be unpredictable so I would avoid driving at night.
High-trafficked roads such as the highway between Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo are particularly hazardous. Keep your doors LOCKED and your windows CLOSED when driving.
Public transport in Brazil is generally safe… depending on where you are and what type of public transport it is. City buses are pretty reliable. These will run frequently. In Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo, you can use the metro!
That leaves the humble traveller with intercity buses. These are surprisingly safe, well maintained and comfortable.
Long-distance bus travel is popular in Brazil. But like in most places, do your research on companies before you travel and always keep your valuables within eyesight.
It pretty much goes without saying, but getting licensed taxis in Brazil is A MUST. Generally, taxis are pretty safe in Brazil if you take them from licensed taxi ranks. Make sure you check the company details.
Outside of the big cities, the taxis won’t have meters. This means having to negotiate a price before you get in. Another way to get a licensed taxi in Brazil is by using a taxi app like Uber or 99Taxis. Hail it when you’re inside a building so you’re not hanging around on the street with your phone out. Look for good reviews from the driver and send a message once your ride is accepted.
Crime in Brazil
Like most places in Latin America, unfortunately, Brazil has a pretty high crime rate. As a tourist, you’re likely to be targeted for petty crime but note that you’re very unlikely to be the target of violent crime.
The general rule is unless you’re looking for trouble, it won’t come looking for you. Follow the safety and security travel advice for your country and pay attention to recent news updates.
Always exercise increased caution in urban areas of major cities. Keep your belongings close and don’t wander places that you’re not familiar with. Respect local laws and understand how to contact local authorities in the area you are travelling.
What to Pack For Your Brazil Trip
Everyone’s packing list is going to look a little different, but here are a few things I would never want to travel to Brazil without…
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Head Torch
A decent head torch could save your life. If you want to explore caves, unlit temples, or simply find your way to the bathroom during a blackout, a headtorch is a must.
SIM card
Yesim stands as a premier eSIM service provider, catering specifically to the mobile internet needs of travellers.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Money Belt
This is a regular looking belt with a concealed pocket on the inside – you can hide up to twenty notes inside and wear it through airport scanners without it setting them off.
FAQs on Brazil’s Safety
Planning a safe trip to Brazil can get quite overwhelming. That’s why we’ve listed and answered the most frequently asked questions on safety in Brazil.
Is Brazil’s water safe to drink?
No. You should only drink filtered or bottled water in Brazil. Most hostels, hotels, and homes will have filters available to you but in remote areas, I highly recommend that you bring a filtered water bottle like the GRAYL GEOPRESS.
Is Brazil LGBT-friendly?
Yes! Brazil can be incredible for LGBTQIA+ travellers, but you’ll have to be in the right area. Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo are amazing destinations for queer people while the more rural areas can be a bit conservative and closed-minded.
So, is Brazil Safe?
Yes, Brazil can be a safe and downright awesome destination for travellers.
However, is Brazil safe to travel all the time? No.
This is such a huge country that it’s difficult to definitively say ‘yes, it’s safe’ or ‘no, it isn’t safe’. The truth is that it’s basically BOTH.
Areas of some cities can be so unpredictable that it would be silly to wander into them. Other times you’ll wonder what all the fuss was about gangs and petty crime. The answer of whether or not Brazil is safe is therefore basically: it depends.
I know people who travelled Brazil for years without a single issue. One of my friends was robbed in their first week. There are a lot of variables for staying safe in Brazil.
It can depend on what CITY you’re in, what part of that city, what time of day it is, what sort of public transport you’re travelling on, what clothes you’re wearing, where you’re eating… Yep. You get the idea.
The best way to stay safe when you visit Brazil is to stay vigilant. I wouldn’t recommend it for your first backpacking trip, but if you’ve got some experience under your belt, especially around South America, this is one of the best destinations in the world.
Photo: @Lauramcblonde
Looking for more info on travelling to Brazil?
- Let me help you choose where to stay in Rio De Janeiro
- Swing by one of these fabulous festivals
- Don’t forget to add an epic national park to your itinerary
- Check out my favourite Hostels in the centre of all the action
- Plan the rest of your trip with our fantastic backpacking Brazil travel guide!
Disclaimer: Safety conditions change all over the world on a daily basis. We do our best to advise but this info may already be out of date. Do your own research. Enjoy your travels!
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