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.

Is Rio de Janeiro worth visiting?

Overall rating

4.4 /5

based on 19 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

4.9/5

Safety

3.4/5

Food

4.5/5

Budget-friendly

3.9/5
Sara

Sara

El Salvador

Solo travel

I loved Rio The culture is really friendly, the food is good and not to expensive and the beaches are just perfect. You can go on hikes or if you like to party you can always go to Lapa. Most people don’t speak english so I would recomendar to learn solo basic words. I would not recommed going to the Chist the Redeemer because it is way too crowded so you don’t get to enjoy the amazing view and you have to do a two hour line (or more). The place is amazing but the amount of people is a little overwhelming.

Posted: January 14, 2025
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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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Is Rio de Janeiro safe for women?

Safety index

2.2 /5

Based on 13 local experiences

Crime index

3 /5

Based on 13 local experiences

Luizzy

Luizzy

Rio isn’t as unsafe as people think. Tourist spots are safe, but watch out for pickpockets, like in any big city. At night, avoid waiting on the street with your phone. Order an Uber from indoors or a venue.

Posted: January 9, 2025
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Rio has lots of touristic areas, but it also has some very dangerous ones. Usually, locals know the difference and treat outsiders with the utmost respect and are really welcoming, but there are some areas I, as a local, would never enter.

Posted: January 3, 2025
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Meet locals in Rio de Janeiro

fernanda

fernanda

About Me

Im Fernanda, um a sociologyst who loves to travel and i have a bed on my Room where someone can spend a night in Exchange of receive in your house in Europe. I have a trip schedualed for the Summer in europe

Speaking

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Iris

Iris

About Me

Travelling keeps me fulfilled.

Speaking

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Stay with locals in Rio de Janeiro

Iris

Iris

Rio de Janeiro

Can host for:

1 day

About me

Travelling keeps me fulfilled.

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fernanda

fernanda

Rio de Janeiro

Can host for:

3 days

About me

Im Fernanda, um a sociologyst who loves to travel and i have a bed on my Room where someone can spend a night in Exchange of receive in your house in Europe. I have a trip schedualed for the Summer in europe

Speaking

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Upcoming visitors to Rio de Janeiro

Bina

Bina

About Me

Hi everyone🌈 I’m Bina and I’m looking for a travel buddy for Brazil in February/March, especially to experience the world-famous Carnival! 🇧🇷My plan is to fully dive into the celebrations: the spectacular parades, the vibrant street parties, and even some authentic Favela parties. 💃 Besides Carnival, I’d love to explore the surroundings and relax on the beautiful beaches. If you’re up for this adventure and open to new experiences, I’d be excited to hear from you! 🤗

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Briana

Briana

About Me

Hi! I’m a free spirit that loves to travel and experience new cultures. I work remotely and want to take advantage of being able to work anywhere.

Speaking

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Safety in Brazil