Is Petrolina Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Petrolina can generally be considered as moderately safe for solo female travelers. Street crime such as pickpocketing can be an issue, particularly in crowded places or at night. It's always recommended to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings. However, locals are very friendly and you are unlikely to face any major issues if you stick to populated areas and practice common travel safety measures like not displaying expensive items. The city is fairly well-policed and overall safety is in line with typical expectations for larger Brazilian cities.

Safety rating

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How safe is Petrolina?

Safety at night:

Safety at night:Moderate

Petrolina has a moderate safety level. Public areas are generally safe with normal precautions. However, it is recommended to avoid deserted streets, parks, and alleyways during nighttime. Always be vigilant, especially after dark, and consider using local reliable taxi services for nighttime transportation.
Public transportation:

Public transportation:Moderate

Public transportation in Petrolina holds a moderate level of safety. Buses are the primary means of public transportation and they are generally well-maintained. However, during peak hours, they can get overcrowded which might lead to discomfort. Incidents of theft do happen from time to time, so one should always be cautious and keep an eye on their belongings. Also, routes are usually marked in Portuguese so having a basic understanding of the language or a reliable translation app could be helpful.
Street harassment:

Street harassment:Moderate

While travelling to Petrolina, the level of street harassment is moderate. Although Brazil is generally safe, some experiences of unwelcome attention and catcalling in crowded places have been reported. However, it's important to note that experiences can vary widely based on many factors. The reality can be different at different times, in different areas, and for different people. So it is always advisable to stay in crowded places and not to venture out alone especially at night. Staying confident, assertive, and aware of your surroundings can generally help in avoiding possible street harassment scenarios.
Petty crimes:

Petty crimes:Moderate

Petrolina, like many places, has its issues with crime. However, most of it is considered petty crimes such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, often happening in crowded public areas or on local bus transportation. Always maintain a sense of awareness of your surroundings, keep your personal belongings secure and avoid displaying expensive items in public.

Is Petrolina worth visiting?

Safety in Brazil