Is São Paulo Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

São Paulo is a large city and like all large cities, it has areas that are safer and others that are less safe. It is advisable to stay alert, especially after dark, and avoid less crowded areas. Public transportation is generally safe, but it's better to avoid it during less busy times. Many locals speak English, which can be helpful. Crime rates vary, so staying aware of your surroundings, keeping valuables out of sight, and making clear travel plans can help ensure your safety. Always trust your instincts as they are your best guide.

Safety rating

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How safe is São Paulo?

Safety at night:

Safety at night:Unsafe

São Paulo is a bustling city with a vibrant nightlife. However, it's essential to be cautious, as the safety can vary greatly depending on the area. Some neighborhoods can be safer and busier than others. Walking alone at night isn't highly advisable due to the risk of robbery or assault, particularly in less populated or poorly lit areas. It's recommended to use reliable transportation such as registered taxis or trusted rideshare apps, especially if you're unfamiliar with the city. Stay vigilant, avoid displaying expensive belongings in public, and avoid risky areas.
Public transportation:

Public transportation:Moderate

Public transportation in São Paulo, is generally reliable and is used extensively by locals and tourists. However, potential issues include overcrowding during peak hours and the occasional instances of pickpocketing. It is always advised to exercise caution, avoid traveling during dark hours, and always keep an eye on your belongings.
Street harassment:

Street harassment:Moderate

In São Paulo, street harassment does occur and it's something to be prepared for. However, it varies greatly depending on the area and the time of day. More populated and tourist-friendly areas tend to be safer, but caution should be used, especially at night or in less crowded, residential areas. It is advisable to dress modestly and maintain a low profile to avoid unwarranted attention. Keep your belongings close to you and avoid flashing valuable items such as smartphones or cameras.
Petty crimes:

Petty crimes:High

São Paulo, as one of the largest cities in Brazil, can be a hotbed for petty crimes like pickpocketing, purse snatching, and minor scams, particularly in crowded areas such as public transportation and tourist locations. As a solo female traveler always be aware of your surroundings, keep your belongings secured and avoid showcasing valuable items in public places.

Is São Paulo worth visiting?

Overall rating

3.9 /5

based on 9 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

4.1/5

Safety

2.9/5

Food

3.7/5

Budget-friendly

3.6/5

Solo travel

Sao Paulo is a very fast-paced city, full of life and lights. It has great places to visit, such as parks and avenues. In my experience, the people were polite and I really liked it! However, many people warned me to be careful because the robbery and crime rate there is high, which made me quite worried.

Posted: May 7, 2025Experienced: April, 2025
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Family travel

I was worried to visit São Paulo after hearing a lot of people say it was dangerous. After it went dark I did feel a bit unsafe and we ubered everywhere. But during the day it was completely fine, I took my phone out when I had to and just kept to busier areas.

Posted: May 2, 2025
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Solo travel

It's an interesting place, the culinary variety is wonderful. I just didn't feel very safe walking around some places. I prefer traveling with someone. I think my experience wasn't that good because I was alone, so I avoided going out after dark.

Posted: April 20, 2025
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Group travel

São Paulo is a city full of culture, we stayed at Pinheiros neighborhood which was pretty safe but you still have to be alert and prefer areas where there's a crowd of people. There's a lot of good restaurants and cafes to enjoy

Posted: April 18, 2025Experienced: March, 2023
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Emma

Emma

Germany

Couple travel

I felt save almost every moment during day time, but not in the neighbourhood “Luz” I’d never walk there alone in the night. The city is amazingly big but so beautiful! I really recommend tasting traditional food, going to the Parc d’Ibirapuera and visiting Sampa Sky

Posted: January 24, 2025
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Louisa

Louisa

Germany

Group travel

My travel buddy and I are currently in São Paulo and we’re travelling low budget. So far we’ve stayed in a hostel in Guarulhos and had enough luck to be able to stay at a really lovely Ladies place that we found through this app. We visited Sampa Sky, the Liberdade neighbourhood, Beck de Batman, the mercado municipal paulistano and a couple more attractions. So far all our experiences were good even in the areas locals warned us about. Maybe we were just lucky, but I’d recommend staying vigilante at all times, especially with your phone and bags. Most locals don’t speak a lot of English so sometimes it’s hard to communicate but we have found that everyone makes an effort to help you out.

Posted: January 22, 2025
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Is São Paulo safe for women?

Safety index

2.6 /5

Based on 44 local experiences

Crime index

3.3 /5

Based on 44 local experiences

Ana

Ana

São Paulo is a moderate safe city, it really depends on which neighborhood you are and how cautious your behavior is. For example, walking alone at night and holding your phone flashily on the streets isn’t appropriate behavior in most Brazilian cities. But the public transportation system is excellent and sexual assault isn’t really that common here. You have to be smart and always a bit vigilant to robbers, but overall I feel safe on my day to day.

Posted: May 15, 2025
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Thais

Thais

Unsafe, you have to be very careful while visiting. There are good places and good environments but always watching your back and carefully walking around. Don't use your phone while walking. Remember to always let somebody know where you are and with whom.

Posted: May 12, 2025
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Safety in Brazil