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

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How safe is Rio de Janeiro?

Safety at night:

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:

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:

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:

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.
Tap water:

Tap water:Unsafe

Though the tap water in Rio de Janeiro, has been treated and is generally safe to consume, it's not recommended to drink it due to the different bacteria your system may not be used to. Additionally, infrastructure issues might lead to contamination of the water. The safer option would be to buy bottled water, which is readily available throughout the city.

Is Rio de Janeiro safe to travel?

3.4 /5

Based on 17 experiences

Family travel experience

The best place in the world. Do not go out at dawn or wander alone in desolate places. By doing so, you will be safe and have an incredible journey. Natural passages are so beautiful. Shopping centers are top class. It might be a bit chaotic if you stay in the northern or southern zones, but Barra da Tijuca is incredibly friendly and prepared to welcome foreigners.

Posted: December 11, 2023
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Solo travel experience

I was in Rio for some time and I liked the tourist places I visited. My advice - take care of your phone's safety and use Uber. Don't walk around the city when it gets dark.

Posted: September 10, 2023
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Solo travel experience

I stopped in the Copacabana district and loved the place. I didn't go out late at night and always watched my belongings in crowded places, just as I would do in any other large city. I had heard various opinions before leaving, but I was very pleasantly surprised and generally felt safe in Rio. I highly recommend seeing the steak restaurants, Sugarloaf Mountain, and taking the train to Christ the Redeemer.

Posted: June 8, 2023
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Solo travel experience

I spent 10 days alone in Rio a few months ago and completely fell in love with the city. It's one of the best places I've visited and I never felt too scared or worried about my safety, but I adhered to all of those common safety rules. Brazilians are some of the friendliest and most cheerful people I've met.

Posted: May 31, 2023
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Group travel experience

Rio is such an amazing city! But can get very unsafe, even in Copacabana. We went for carnival and had such an amazing time.

Posted: May 1, 2023
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Solo travel experience

I went to Carnaval and I really enjoyed it. I stayed in tourist areas and the whole time I was there, I felt quite safe. It can be quite cheap or as expensive as you want. I also really enjoyed the free walk around the city center.

Posted: April 23, 2023
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Solo travel experience

I sensed some suspicion in the city center or when I was returning home after dinner. Besides that, I felt completely safe. Brazilians are so friendly and hospitable - they totally made my experience worthwhile.

Posted: April 23, 2023
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Couple travel experience

My favourite city in the world! You can hike and see the native animals and breathtaking views in the morning, go to a beach and see the sunset in the afternoon and then hit the amazing bars which offer a taste of Brazil’s awesome Cousine and music. Recommend staying in Zona Sul (specially Copacabana) as it is closer to most interesting locations and quite safe.

Posted: April 18, 2023
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Solo travel experience

Rio de Janeiro was the first place I ever traveled to alone when I was 18 years old. I spent 3 months there and I admit, I was young and probably naive at the time, but honestly, I felt safe and nothing was stolen from me, I even worked as a volunteer in the favelas.

Posted: April 1, 2023
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Is Rio de Janeiro safe for women?

Safety rating

2 /5

Based on 8 experiences

Crime rates rating

2.9 /5

Based on 8 experiences

Júlia

Júlia

Rio is very known for its high criminality and also for being a very unsafe city. I’m not going to say it’s not dangerous to be here but it’s also not as bad as the media shows. Rio is an experience. Of course you need to be careful, to be aware of your surroundings but also you can enjoy the city

Posted: June 23, 2024
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Very dangerous!!! People can rob you any time. In the night it’s very scareful to walk alone. I don’t recommend. Don’t go to communities too. A lot of assaults happening every day. You have to always take Uber to go to places.

Posted: June 6, 2024
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Is Rio de Janeiro safe right now?

Before your visit to Rio de Janeiro, it's essential to check travel advisories for Brazil, including your home country's official travel advisory. These advisories can provide up-to-date information on safety, health, and any specific considerations for travelers.
🇺🇸

United States Travel AdvisoryExercise a high degree of caution

The United States Government advises exercising increased caution in Brazil due to crime. Some areas have an increased risk. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: October 19, 2023
🇨🇦

Canada's Travel AdvisoryExercise a high degree of caution

The Canadian government advises exercising a high degree of caution in Brazil due to high crime rates and regular incidents of gang-related and other violence in urban areas. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: July 18, 2024
🇦🇺

Australia's Travel AdvisoryExercise a high degree of caution

**The Australian government advises exercising a high degree of caution in Brazil due to the threat of violent crime.** Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: May 6, 2024

Is Rio de Janeiro worth visiting?

Overall rating

4.3 /5

based on 17 experiences

Solo travel experience

I loved Rio, I stayed in Copacabana and adored the restaurants on the beachfront. I went paragliding and it was an incredible experience. The city is lively and for those who like entertainment it is the ideal place, there are parties every day.

Posted: April 21, 2024
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5
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Solo travel experience

Rio is beautiful, like no other city I have been to because of it being built into the mountains but you need to be careful and aware of your surroundings. Not many people outside tourist areas speak English.

Posted: February 6, 2024
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 3/5
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Meet locals in Rio de Janeiro

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Dilliany

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Hi! : ) I’m from Brazil, Rio de Janeiro. I’m open to meeting up and showing around. I love traveling and getting to know different cultures and people from all over the world. Now I’m planning my next solo trip around Croatia, Albania, Montenegro, and Hungary. It would be awesome meeting locals and having places do stay.

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Iris

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Travelling keeps me fulfilled.

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Iris

Rio de Janeiro

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Ana

Rio de Janeiro

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Esmé

Esmé

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Hello, my name is Esmé, I’m from the Netherlands and my travel bucket list is far too long. I want to visit every continent, which I will hopefully complete the next 2 years!! Next up is Indonesia for a research project, and a solo trip to Brazil

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Maybelle

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Hi! I’m May. I love anything that involves movement: yoga, running, weight training, pilates, you name it! I also love reading and being outdoors

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Safety in Brazil