Is Rio de Janeiro Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Rio de Janeiro has many beautiful attractions and vibrant culture, however caution is recommended especially for solo female travelers. Crime can be prevalent especially in certain neighborhoods and at night. Always keep an eye on your belongings and avoid walking alone at night in less populated or unfamiliar areas. It's also recommended to keep your valuables and flashy jewelry inconspicuous to avoid drawing unnecessary attention. As a rule of thumb, traveling via taxi or Uber, especially at night, is safer than walking. Despite this, many tourists visit Rio safely each year, so it is not impossible to enjoy the city while taking appropriate precautions.

Safety rating

3.2 /5

Based on 24 experiences from female travelers

2.5 /5

Based on our research and crime data

2.5 /5

Based on 20 experiences from local women

Rio de Janeiro is currently ranked #8 safest place in Brazil for solo female travellers, with an overall safety rating of 3.2 out of 5. . Check the full ranking.

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How safe is Rio de Janeiro?

Safety at night:Unsafe

Walking alone in Rio de Janeiro at night generally presents higher risks due to incidents of crime, particularly in certain neighborhoods that experience higher than average rates of theft and assault. It's always advisable to use licensed taxis or rideshare services to get around after dark and avoid isolated areas. Be mindful of your surroundings at all times and make sure your valuables are secure and not on display. Remote, secluded beaches and parks can be especially problematic in terms of personal safety after sunset.

Public transportation:Moderate

Public transportation in Rio de Janeiro, such as buses and metro, is generally safe during day time, but extra caution is required during late hours. Buses are often crowded, which can unfortunately lead to occasional pickpocketing. It is advisable to avoid displaying valuable items. The Metro is very clean and convenient. Regular security practices, such as being aware of your surroundings and keeping personal belongings close, should work well.

Street harassment:High

As a solo female traveler in Rio de Janeiro, you may experience a significant amount of street harassment. It is not uncommon to encounter catcalling and unwelcome advances particularly when walking alone in certain neighborhoods. It is advised that solo female travelers should be cautious and alert at all times. Avoid isolated areas, especially after dark. Dress conservatively, ignore unwanted attention, and be confident. Connect with other travelers, and do not hesitate to ask for help if you feel uncomfortable.

Petty crimes:High

In Rio de Janeiro, petty crimes like pickpocketing and bag snatching can be common occurrences, particularly in crowded areas. These incidents typically peak in tourist spots, public transportation and beach areas. Staying vigilant in both day and night times is advisable as these crimes can occur at any time. Furthermore, travelling in groups when possible and minimizing the display of high-value items can mitigate such risks.

Is Rio de Janeiro worth visiting?

Overall rating

4.4 /5

based on 24 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

4.8/5

Safety

3.2/5

Food

4.4/5

Budget-friendly

3.8/5

Solo travel

* Extremely beautiful but did feel safe at all. * If you visit Pao de Azucar, go for the sunset, one of the most beautiful I’ve seen in my life. * A cool and safe space to stay is Hostel Sunrise, a room only for women, a pool and an entrance right on the road, which makes it safer to go home at night with an uber or taxi. * If you are alone, I would definitely recommend to travel with a Dry Bag to allow you to the beach with some basic belongings.

Posted: September 1, 2025Experienced: July, 2025

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Suelen

Brazil

Solo travel

In Rio de Janeiro, most touristic areas are safe. The local food is amazing. The beaches are impressive. People is very friendly. I highly recommend it. Attractions are not expensive for travelers. You can use the public transport without worry.

Posted: June 20, 2025

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Wlianni

Brazil

Couple travel

A city with beautiful places but I constantly felt in danger and had to stay alert all the time. I really liked the places I visited. I avoided going up hills, but I wouldn't return to the city because of the lack of safety.

Posted: April 21, 2025

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Paula

Portugal

Solo travel

I loved Rio! I also managed to see some carnival celebrations as they started in January already! I felt very safe although I was also cautious because I know that it can be very unsafe there. Prices were very affordable but, as usually, in more touristic areas they were higher than they should be. I can definitely reccomend! And the weather was awesome.

Posted: February 3, 2025Experienced: December, 2024

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Solo travel

Rio de Janeiro is a really vibrant and wild city. And also really dangerous at the same time. But when you aware of that and not showing your phone that much in public you will be safe. I really loved the sunsets at ipanema beach that’s totally the best beach in Rio and also the Streetparty on Monday’s at Pedro do Sal.

Posted: January 15, 2025

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Is Rio de Janeiro safe for women?

Safety index

2.5 /5

Based on 20 local experiences

Crime index

3.1 /5

Based on 20 local experiences

Larissa

In Brazil, we have an expression called "dar mole" (to be soft), and that's what you can't do. So, don't leave your cell phone exposed on places full of people or empty streets, where it can be snatched away. Always keep your purse and backpack in front of your field of vision. Don't make foolish savings. If it's night, call a car or an Uber to get to your destination. Your life, integrity, and even your material stuff are much more expensive than an Uber or taxi ride. Avoid being too friendly with strangers; always be alert. I've never been robbed in Rio. I live in a good area here and feel safe, but these are some precautions I take to avoid becoming a statistic.

Posted: August 11, 2025

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