[Safety in Brazil] Extreme Caution is Required — Gathering Information is Essential!
When people think of Brazil, they often imagine the bright sunshine of the Southern Hemisphere, cheerful people, and an infectious sense of joy. However, in terms of safety, there are still many concerns. Tourists often become involved in trouble or crime, and the country still carries a strong image of being unsafe.
Since the security situation changes daily, it’s important to gather the latest information before visiting. Brazil has plenty of attractions, so prepare well in advance and take precautions to avoid trouble.
table of contents
[x] close
[Safety in Brazil] Extreme Caution is Required — Gathering Information is Essential!
1. Avoid Slums (Favelas)
Brazil is said to have poor public safety, and many incidents occur in slum areas. In the favelas found in major cities, particularly violent crimes are common, so caution is needed. In Rio de Janeiro, slums exist right next to tourist areas, so be extremely vigilant about your safety. While sightseeing, it’s easy to let your guard down, but remember that danger is always close by.
Slum areas are rife with guns and drugs, shootouts between gangs and police occur frequently. Make sure you know in advance which areas are dangerous, and never approach slums out of curiosity. Keep in mind that Brazil has safety issues before you visit.
2. Carry Cash in Separate Amounts
Brazil’s poor safety is largely due to economic problems. In most cases where tourists are targeted, the motive is money. An effective self-defense strategy is to keep a wallet with only the minimum amount of cash separate from another wallet containing important cards and the money you really need. In the event of being pickpocketed or robbed in an unsafe area, having a decoy wallet that you can afford to lose will come in handy. If possible, put expired cards in it so it looks more convincing.
In unsafe areas of Brazil, resisting an assailant may lead to physical harm. If someone demands money, calmly hand over the dummy wallet. With proper preparation, you can still enjoy your time in Brazil.
3. Avoid Going Out After Dark
It’s common sense when traveling abroad, but in Brazil—especially where safety is poor—you should avoid going out after dark as much as possible. Many crimes occur after sunset, when the streets are deserted. In unsafe areas, violent crimes are more likely at night, so unless you have a compelling reason, it’s best to return to your hotel before it gets dark.
If you want to enjoy Brazil’s nightlife during your stay, finish your plans as early as possible. The later it gets, the more likely you are to encounter dangerous situations. Always use a taxi instead of walking. In a country with safety concerns like Brazil, going out at night carries significant risk. Aim for an early-morning lifestyle, and unless absolutely necessary, spend your evenings at the hotel.
4. Tourists Are Easy Targets — Be Mindful of Your Behavior and Clothing
In Brazil, where public safety is poor, the stereotype that tourists are wealthy still seems strong. They are also thought to have a personality that finds it hard to refuse requests, so tourists are, in reality, easy targets. If it becomes apparent that you are a tourist unfamiliar with Brazil, you are more likely to get caught up in trouble, so caution is essential. Even in areas that are not particularly unsafe, spreading out a map and looking around nervously or wandering with a suitcase in hand makes you stand out and puts you at risk.
For this reason, how you act while sightseeing is important. You should refrain from speaking loudly. Flashy clothing will also draw attention in the local environment. Always keep the lack of safety in mind and avoid actions that make you stand out.
5. Be Careful at Currency Exchanges and Banks
While it’s unlikely you’ll need a large amount of cash during sightseeing in Brazil, you should still be cautious when leaving a bank or currency exchange. There have been cases where people are followed after being identified as tourist and then attacked after making an exchange. In Brazil’s unsafe environment, limit the cash you carry to the bare minimum, and when going to a bank or currency exchange, stay aware of your surroundings.
If you feel someone’s eyes on you or spot someone suspicious, get into a taxi or enter a restaurant. Isolated areas are unsafe, so spend some time in more crowded areas instead. In cheerful Brazil, it’s easy to forget about safety concerns, but don’t let your guard down.
6. Paying Attention to Your Surroundings Is Essential
It’s easy to let your guard down in Brazil’s open and relaxed atmosphere. But if you forget about safety, you may be caught off guard and fall victim to trouble. Always remember that criminals are watching for opportunities. If it’s clear that you are alert to your surroundings, you are less likely to be targeted.
Even while walking through the city, it’s effective to make eye contact with people around you. If you notice anyone acting suspiciously, it’s best to keep your distance. In unsafe areas of Brazil, there are also many drug users, so take extra care. If you are always aware of your surroundings, you’ll notice quickly if you wander into a dangerous area. To enjoy Brazil, it’s important never to lose your sense of vigilance.
◎Summary
Public safety in Brazil is not great. When visiting, gathering information beforehand is essential. Since the security situation changes daily, regularly check the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website and international news for updates. It’s important to know which areas and time periods are dangerous at your destinations in Brazil and to act in ways that avoid trouble. With thorough preparation and solid safety measures, you can enjoy a comfortable and pleasant trip.
Hotel
![[Safety in Brazil] Extreme Caution is Required — Gathering Information is Essential!](https://skyticket.com/guide/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/1280px-Christ_on_Corcovado_mountain-1-1200x675.jpg)
