Is Brazil Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Brazil is a country of many contrasts with unique culture and affluent natural beauty. However, safety can be a concern, particularly for solo female travelers. The different parts of Brazil present varying levels of security. Some safer regions like Florianopolis and Rio Grande do Sul can be enjoyed with relative peace. However, cities like Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo tend to have higher crime rates. It's always advisable to stay alert, avoid isolated areas, especially at night, and to keep your belongings close. As always, knowledge of the local language Portuguese is invaluable to navigate any safety concerns.

Safety index

3.9 /5

Based on 5 experiences

2.5 /5

Based on research and crime data

Safety overview

Safety at night:Unsafe

Brazil, particularly major cities like Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo, could pose some safety concerns for a solo female traveler at night. Though there are safer neighborhoods and Brazil boasts beautiful night-time sceneries, it's generally advised not to roam alone after dark. This advice is particularly useful when it comes to secluded or dimly lit areas. Using a reputable taxi service or Uber to get back to your accommodation, rather than walking, could be a safer option.

Public transportation: Moderate

Public transportation in Brazil varies greatly depending upon the location. In large cities like São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, the metro and buses run regularly, are relatively safe and usually crowded. However, it is always advised to stay alert for pickpockets, especially during peak hours. At night, it is advisable to avoid certain areas and use trusted taxi services or ride-sharing apps instead. In more remote areas, public transportation can be less reliable and potentially riskier. Therefore, it is recommended to plan your journey carefully, stay in well-trafficked areas, and always be aware of your surroundings.

Street harassment: Moderate

In Brazil, there can be instances of street harassment, such as catcalling or unwanted attention. However, this largely varies by region and individual experiences. Universally, awareness around one's surroundings, avoiding isolated areas, and blending in with local attire can mitigate the risk.

Petty crimes:High

Brazil has a considerable rate of petty crimes like pickpocketing, bag snatching, mugging, and theft, especially in crowded public places and tourist hotspots. There is also the occurrence of 'quicknappings', where criminals abduct a person for a short period to get money from their bank account. As a solo female traveler, it would be wise to take precautions such as not displaying wealth, being vigilant in public areas, and avoiding walking alone at night.

Tap water:Unsafe

Tap water in Brazil's major cities goes through treatment and is generally safe for cooking and cleaning purposes. However, it is not recommended for drinking due to varying levels of quality and different microbes to which visitors might not have immunity. Drinking bottled or filtered water is always a safer bet while traveling around Brazil.

Get the Travel Ladies app

Meet new people, find travel buddies, share experiences, discuss travel plans and stay with local women through couch surfing
Download from App StoreDownload from Google Play
Get the Travel Ladies App

Travel experiences

Overall rating

4.2 /5

based on 5 experiences

Rating summary

Things to do

4.2/5

Safety

3.9/5

Food

4.2/5

Budget-friendly

4.2/5

Couple travel experience

I have positive memories of Brazil, but we didn't go out in the evenings. In the Amazon, it was quiet, and peaceful, with no people at all. In Fortaleza - it's a typical resort and rather okay (even in the evenings it was peaceful). In Rio, we limited ourselves to daytime sightseeing and beach time and avoided the favelas. In Paraty, it was very touristy, lots of people from Europe.

Posted: October 4, 2023
Things to do: 4/5Food: 4/5Budget-friendly: 4/5Safety: 4/5
favorite_border 0
mode_comment 0

Solo travel experience

This was my first time traveling alone. I spent a few days in São Paulo and a few in Rio. It was an amazing trip and Brazil is a stunning country with delicious food, great entertainment, and friendly people. I was cautious during the trip for safety reasons, but I never felt unsafe (I was with a Brazilian friend and we stayed in safe areas). I'm already looking forward to going back and exploring more of the country.

Posted: August 4, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 4/5
favorite_border 0
mode_comment 0

Group travel experience

I fell in love with Brazil during my visit in November. I went to Saõ Paolo and Rio and I highly recommend seeing both cities. I traveled with my best friend and we felt very safe. She went on morning runs and I walked alone for a few hours one day and was very comfortable. Coming from NY, I found everything to be very reasonable in price, from hotels to meals to getting around. The locals are super friendly and made us feel right at home.

Posted: April 23, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5
favorite_border 0
mode_comment 0
Jasmin

Jasmin

Canada

Solo travel experience

I traveled with a volunteering organization. It’s a beautiful country with the most welcoming locals. Beautiful beaches. I stated in Rio de Janeiro, I’d definitely go back.

Posted: April 13, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5
favorite_border 0
mode_comment 0

Group travel experience

I've been in Brazil for 10 days. I went with my best friend to Manaus (Amazon), Rio de Jainero, and Iguassu Falls (both sides). I will admit I had some fears about the trip: mosquitos (despite yellow fever shot), being mugged, food choices, and slippery Falls walk ways. But none of this happened. We both enjoyed our trip and have a much more favorable opinion of Brazil. I had previously been to Peru, Argentina, Chile and was interested in visiting the biggest country of the area and wanted to see the Christ the Redeemer statue.

Posted: November 21, 2022
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5
favorite_border 55
mode_comment 0

Meet locals in Brazil

Layla

Layla

Speaking

About Me

23yo, cabin crew in Brazil. Loves to read and travel, but I’m not a huge fan of traveling alone so I’m trying to change that

Countries I’ve Visited

🇧🇪 Belgium, 🇧🇷 Brazil, 🇨🇴 Colombia, 🇭🇷 Croatia, 🇫🇷 France, 🇩🇪 Germany, 🇬🇷 Greece, 🇮🇹 Italy, 🇺🇸 United States, 🇹🇷 Turkey, 🇳🇱 Netherlands, 🇵🇹 Portugal, 🇦🇷 Argentina, 🇻🇦 Vatican City

mode_comment 0
Julia

Julia

Speaking

About Me

I'm a 22 years old brazilian who wants to meet new people, show around my city and let you know how is the real and tradicional Rio de Janeiro beside the turistic points! our culture, food, what we like to do and also, practice my english. I think it would be a good way to make memories, of course. As a good brazilian, I LOVE talking and have fun!! If you interested or need some help with anything, just text me. Thank you💖

Countries I’ve Visited

🇧🇷 Brazil, 🇵🇹 Portugal

mode_comment 0
Maricí

Maricí

Speaking

About Me

I'm a girl that loves traveling, learning and sharing cultures.

Countries I’ve Visited

🇧🇷 Brazil, 🇫🇷 France, 🇹🇷 Turkey, 🇩🇪 Germany, 🇮🇪 Ireland, 🇨🇭 Switzerland

mode_comment 0

Stay with locals in Brazil

Isadora

Isadora

Speaking

You can stay for:

4 days

About me

I'm isadora emer, 19 years old, brazilian from rio de janeiro. Traveler, student, singer, songwriter and a great enthusiast of Brazilian music (especially forró pé-de-serra). On Instagram: @isadoraemmer

Countries I’ve Visited

🇦🇷 Argentina, 🇧🇷 Brazil

mode_comment 0
Mariana

Mariana

Speaking

You can stay for:

3 days

About me

hi my name is Mariana Machado, I'm Brazilian, engineering student, currently doing an exchange program in Serbia, passionate about art, music, architecture, my family and my friends

Countries I’ve Visited

🇦🇷 Argentina, 🇧🇷 Brazil, 🇳🇱 Netherlands, 🇷🇸 Serbia, 🇺🇾 Uruguay

mode_comment 0
Nãna

Nãna

Speaking

You can stay for:

7 days

About me

I'm an artsy introvert who loves live music, nice views, and a good cup of freshly brewed coffee.

Countries I’ve Visited

🇦🇷 Argentina, 🇧🇷 Brazil

mode_comment 0

Upcoming visitors to Brazil

Jemima

Jemima

Speaking

About Me

Hello. I'm new to solo travelling and would like to team up with others on my travels. I just feel life is stalled waiting for others to be free, can afford or to go to the same places. I look forward to hearing from you 🎉

Countries I’ve Visited

🇺🇸 United States, 🇱🇰 Sri Lanka, 🇸🇪 Sweden, 🇪🇸 Spain, 🇿🇦 South Africa, 🇵🇹 Portugal, 🇳🇱 Netherlands, 🇲🇦 Morocco, 🇮🇹 Italy, 🇮🇪 Ireland, 🇬🇷 Greece, 🇩🇪 Germany, 🇫🇷 France

mode_comment 0
Tiffany

Tiffany

Speaking

About Me

🌺🤿🏄‍♀️🌅🐚 🌎 Hey it’s Tiffany. I love traveling the world. #liveamplified AmplifiedNetwork.com

mode_comment 0

Local discussions

Travel packingWhat bag would you recommend for 3 months of backpacking in South America?

I'm just wondering what bag would anyone recommend for 3 months of backpacking in South America? Something easy to wheel around and sturdy.

Posted: May 20, 2023
favorite_border 0
mode_comment 0

Solo travelI am planning to take a solo trip to Peru and Bolivia for 10 or so days.

I am planning to take a solo trip to Peru and Bolivia for 10 or so days. I want to visit Lima, Cusco, Machu Picchu, La Paz, and Salar de Uyuni. But my Spanish is really limited and it will be my first solo trip outside of North America or Europe. First of all, I was wondering if it is a good idea to take a solo trip in this case? Any recommendations for accommodations, destinations I have liste...

Posted: May 20, 2023
favorite_border 0
mode_comment 0

TravelWhere should I go/what should I do for a few days in between Rio and Ilha grande?

I’ve booked flights to Rio for the end of January. I plan on spending 5-6 days in Rio itself at the beginning of my trip and ending my trip with 3-4 days at Ilha grande for lots of relaxation (although this could be changed). I have a few days in between and I’ll not sure where to go/what to do. Any suggestions?

Posted: November 14, 2022
favorite_border 0
mode_comment 0

TravelWhich country in South America would be best for a 10-day girls' trip?

We're planning a 10-day girls' trip in south america and we are wondering which country would be best to visit! We like white-sand beaches, hikes, historic sites and a nice nightlife!

Posted: November 12, 2022
favorite_border 0
mode_comment 2

TravelWhat websites can I use to compare travel insurance for a 3-month trip to South America?

Hey all! So I am going travelling for 3 months around South America and was wondering if anyone had any good suggestions for travel insurance. I will be travelling and working at the same time so will have a MacBook Pro to cover. I have looked on GoCompare and Compare the Market, but was wondering if anyone knew of any other websites to look at? Thanks in advance

Posted: October 11, 2022
favorite_border 0
mode_comment 0

Safety in Brazil