Is Rio de Janeiro Safe for Solo Female Travelers? Solo Travel in Rio de Janeiro

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.

Is Rio de Janeiro worth visiting?

Overall rating

4.3 /5

based on 17 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

4.8/5

Safety

3.4/5

Food

4.6/5

Budget-friendly

3.9/5

Solo travel

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
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Solo travel

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
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Zenith

Zenith

South Africa

Family travel

Rio de Janeiro was by far one of the most incredible places I had been to! I went with my family December of 2022 for the New Years (Reveillon). We stayed in Barra de Tijuca, a more upper-class neighbourhood of Rio. This time, Jan 2024, I am going back to Brazil (yes, back so soon) because I loved it so much haha! It has such a special place in my heart.

Posted: January 7, 2024
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Family travel

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

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

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

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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Solo travel

Rio de Janeiro is a city it is worth visiting. Crime is high but knowing how to move around will allow you to have plenty of experiences You can stay 2 weeks or 2 years and still have new things to do.

Posted: May 23, 2023
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Group travel

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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Group travel

I was in Rio with my friend for about 11 days and we never experienced anything suspicious. We stayed in Copacabana and did our own trips. We used Uber and everything was fine, except that not everyone speaks English, but it wasn't a big problem as we translated basic Portuguese phrases using Google. It was one of the best places I've been and if I get the chance, I will definitely go back there.

Posted: April 23, 2023
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Is Rio de Janeiro safe for women?

Safety index

2.1 /5

Based on 11 local experiences

Crime index

3 /5

Based on 11 local experiences

Rio is a beautiful city, not better stay where all the tourists are. If you go to a local place it's not safe. So, better listen what they say at the hotel. Stay safe! Don't go to favela safaris. Instead go to see the touristic attractions.

Posted: September 4, 2024
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Rio is a somewhat dangerous city, but with some care, everyone can have an excellent experience in the Marvelous City. In tourist spots, there may be people watching tourists (especially foreigners) to gain some advantage. I suggest using either Uber, public transportation, and/or a trusted driver.

Posted: August 15, 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: October 1, 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: September 27, 2024

Meet locals in Rio de Janeiro

Iris

Iris

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Travelling keeps me fulfilled.

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Nathalia

Nathalia

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I'm a girl from Rio who has visited and lived in many Brazilian cities. So i have been a guide for several times, in different cities (São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Salvador, Aracaju and Porto Alegre). The best part is the opportunity to change experiences and make new friends! I really love it! Easy-going person, who loves to introduce my country and our culture to people.

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Stay with locals in Rio de Janeiro

Iris

Iris

Rio de Janeiro

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1 day

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Travelling keeps me fulfilled.

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Mariana

Mariana

Rio de Janeiro

Can host for:

3 days

About me

Nasci no Rio de Janeiro, mas morei a maior parte da vida em Goiânia-GO-BR. Há 7 anos voltei a morar no Rio de Janeiro, cidade que amo e que além de linda tem muita cultura.

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Upcoming visitors to Rio de Janeiro

Connect with upcoming visitors to Rio de Janeiro who are looking for travel buddies or meet ups.
Marianne

Marianne

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Hi! I’m Marianne, and I’m interested in art, photography, sightseeing and trekking. I work as a web UX/UI designer, I enjoy working in local cafes and taking pictures to all the places I visit. I also love running and in every new city I visit I try to go at least for a run so if you enjoy running please join me!

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Paula

Paula

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I’m 22 years old Polish girl that loves traveling:)

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Safety in Brazil