Is Rio Safe?

RIO

Is Rio safe? The answer to that can be complicated. Not too long ago, My partner and I were enjoying brunch at a cafe not too far from Copacabana Beach. I elected to go back to our apartment after lunch, but my partner wanted to stroll along the beach, so we separated. We thought everything would be fine. She didn’t have flashy clothes or belongings that would attract attention. Her bag was small, and she kept it securely tucked under her arm. We were confident she had taken every precaution. It was the middle of the day on a crowded beach, and at first, everything was fine… Without warning, a gang of kids, the oldest not more than 15 years old, surrounded her and violently yanked her modest gold chain right off her chest. Then, they took off running down the crowded promenade. She ran after them, caught up to the kid with her necklace, and grabbed him by the shirt, but as she yanked him back by his collar, an older man (who we think was in on the mugging) intervened by sticking his leg out and tripping her, enabling the kids to get away. I was so thankful that she wasn’t hurt. It was the only time we would separate the entire trip. 

If you decide to travel to Brazil, these US State Department tips/reminders are definitely helpful:

• Be aware of your surroundings
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt
• Use caution when walking or driving at night, and avoid walking on beaches after dark
• Do not display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches or jewelry
• Be extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs
• Passengers face an elevated risk of robbery or assault using public, municipal bus transportation throughout Brazil, especially at night
• Use increased caution when hiking in isolated areas
• Visit the full State Department page here for the latest related to your travel

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The US State Department currently lists a level-two travel advisory for Brazil: exercise increased caution. Risks can include pickpocketing, theft, assault, civil unrest, and natural disasters. There is some good news though! The State Department removed all mentions of Covid-19 from its travel advisory. Any search for Covid will yield “technical difficulties.” In terms of crime per capita, Rio is on par with major US cities like New Orleans or Washington DC. I’ve undergone many ups and downs throughout the course of my travels and found that success is all about how I prepare, and how I react to difficult situations.

At the end of the day, travelers will need to evaluate their own risk/reward preferences when venturing to Rio. Yes, it may be a bit more risky than some other destinations, but if you are a diligent planner and take the proper precautions, odds are that you’ll have a great time in Rio. We’re big fans.

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