Brazil has a reputation for being one of the most dangerous countries in South America. While that might have been true in the past, things are different now.
I’ve been to Brazil several times. Yes, my passport and iPhone were stolen, my friends had their credit cards swiped, and one of them was even threatened with a knife! But most of these incidents were avoidable, so don’t let them intimidate you.
When my passport was stolen, I was at the bus station in Rio with my backpack wide open. I basically handed it to the pickpocket! Another friend had his wallet swiped after passing out at a pool party.
Moral of the story: Most bad things happen when we, as tourists, don’t take the right precautions. Brazil has its own set of safety rules. Follow them, and your trip will go smoothly.
General Safety Tips for Brazil:
These are good practices to keep in mind, especially in big cities like Rio and São Paulo, and especially in areas like Lapa or any other notorious spots:
- Leave the flashy jewelry at home. You may want that Instagram-worthy shot on Copacabana with your cutest accessories, but save the jewelry for another day.
- Don’t take your phone out in public. If you need to call an Uber or text someone, step into a store to do it.
- Stick with Uber after dark. It’s cheaper and safer than taking public transport or walking at night. Plus, Uber drivers are cool with waiting for you until you’re safely inside.
- Watch for cars at night. In Rio, cars are allowed to run red lights after 10 PM, so double-check before crossing streets.
- Stay alert. If someone taps you, stands too close, or brushes against you, check your stuff immediately. Don’t engage with strangers acting drunk or erratic in the street.
- Stick with your group. Don’t wander off on your own or into dark alleys. Even if you need a bathroom break, go where the crowd is.
- While Brazil seems LGBTQ-friendly on the surface, hate crimes do occur, so it’s important to stay cautious.
Is Brazil Safe for Solo Female Travelers?
Absolutely! But like in many places, be prepared for some catcalling and, of course, don’t walk around alone after dark.
Also, Brazilian men can be a little aggressive. It’s important to ignore unwanted attention and maintain clear boundaries (unless you feel comfortable—then enjoy yourself!).
In one situation, I was with a female friend, and we pretended to be a couple to stop the harassment, which worked well.And of course, don’t walk around alone after dark.
Carnival Safety Warnings:
Carnival, and the weeks leading up to it, is a whole different ballgame. The streets are packed, the parties are wild, and the alcohol flows freely, making tourists easy targets.
This is peak pickpocketing season, so it’s essential to stay on your toes.
Where’s the risk highest? Salvador takes the crown for most dangerous Carnival, but Rio and São Paulo aren’t far behind. Carnival in Florianopolis is considered much safer.
How to Stay Safe During Carnival:
- Leave the good phone at home: Consider using a cheap backup phone. Or better yet, have only one person in your group bring a phone.
- Money belts are your friend: Keep your valuables tucked inside your clothes, or for the ladies—stash them in your top.
- Stick with Uber after dark: It’s always a safer bet, especially after sunset.
- Watch out for Arrastão: This is when a group of teenagers rush into crowds to steal from people before running away. If you see a group of teens, steer clear.
Here are some stories you can avoid with a bit of caution:
A friend’s phone got pickpocketed from the bottom pocket of his pants (yes, even when he thought it was hidden!).
Another friend had her phone snatched right out of her hand while sitting in an Uber. The guy was riding a motorcycle and when she was stuck in traffic with the window open, he just reached in, took it, and sped off!
A group of kids once walked by me, and one of the girls tried to swipe my sunglasses. Luckily, I noticed in time and managed to grab them back while screaming at her.
