Brazil is one of the safest and most breathtaking countries in South America.
The country consists of 26 individual states and a growing population – over 215 million people.
Brazil is an unforgettable destination known for its iconic beaches and tropical culture.
Unfortunately, no country is perfect.
Luckily, the Brazilian government has implemented policies to make the country safer.
Overall, Brazil’s crime rate is relatively high – 40% higher than the United States.
However, as with all nations, some cities are safer than others.
Ultimately, knowing the potential dangers of one’s surroundings is the first step to safe travel, no matter the destination.
![10 Safest Cities in Brazil (1) 10 Safest Cities in Brazil (1)](https://i0.wp.com/cdn.travelsafe-abroad.com/wp-content/uploads/Untitled-383.png)
Contents
- 1 | Palmas
- 2 | Florianopolis
- 3 | Belo Horizonte
- 4 | Brasilia
- 5 | Sao Paulo
- 6 | Salvador
- 7 | Rio de Janeiro
- 8 | Natal
- 9 | Recife
- 10 | Campo Grande
- 5 Safety Tips for Traveling to Brazil
- Brazil Safety Overview
- Frequently Asked Questions
- How does Brazil rank globally on crime?
- What are Brazilian Favelas?
- Is Brazil safe for women?
1 | Palmas
Palmas is one of the fastest-growing cities in Brazil.
It is the capital city of the rainforest state of Tocantins and sits on the banks of the Tocantins River.
While Palmas is known for beautiful rivers and diverse wildlife, this small central Brazilian state is rapidly expanding.
And currently, Palamas has a population of well over 306000.
Palmas has been one of the safest cities in Brazil for the last ten years.
Despite continued crime rates declining, causing many links the lower crime rate to the reduced organized gang and criminal activity.
Getting around Palamas is easy, with accessible transportation, including buses, trains, and ferries.
![10 Safest Cities in Brazil (2) 10 Safest Cities in Brazil (2)](https://i0.wp.com/cdn.travelsafe-abroad.com/wp-content/uploads/Untitled-384.png)
2 | Florianopolis
The capital of Santa Catarina, Florianopolis, is an island city in Southern Brazil.
Divided by a mountain range, most of the city’s 1.28 million residents live on the central island.
A robust and intimate community, Florianopolis is one of the safest cities to live in South America.
The decade-long decrease in reported crimes supports the city’s reputation as a safe destination.
The lush environment of beaches and nature reserves is a popular destination for adventure seekers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Lagoa da Conceição, a saltwater lagoon, accommodates both windsurfing and boating.
And the Pedro Ivo Campos Bridge connects the island to the mainland.
![10 Safest Cities in Brazil (3) 10 Safest Cities in Brazil (3)](https://i0.wp.com/cdn.travelsafe-abroad.com/wp-content/uploads/Untitled-385.png)
3 | Belo Horizonte
Located in Southeastern Brazil, Belo Horizonte is the capital city of Minas Gerais and nestles between two mountain ranges – Serra do Curral and Serra da Moeda.
Belo Horizonte is a moderate-sized city with 2.7 million people, which is reputed as one of the safest places in Brazil.
The city also ranks as a top beautiful city in Brazil, known for its breathtaking vistas and modern architecture.
But, whether you are marveling at the Niemeyer-designed Church of St Assassi or wandering the exhibits at the Brazilian Football Museum, violence can happen.
The most recent reported statistic boasts Belo Horizonte’s low homicide rate and a declining crime rate, but petty crimes, such as pickpocketing, theft of opportunity, and tourist scams, occur daily.
![10 Safest Cities in Brazil (4) 10 Safest Cities in Brazil (4)](https://i0.wp.com/cdn.travelsafe-abroad.com/wp-content/uploads/Untitled-386.png)
4 | Brasilia
Brazil’s capital city, Brasilia, is home to almost 5 million people.
It is located in the central-west Brazilian highlands and is considered an extraordinary example of 20th-century modernist urbanism.
The World Heritage Organization declared the city a UNESCO site in 1987.
Brazilia’s overall reported crime rates are low compared to other major cities in Brazil.
And the capital city remains safe.
Brasilia has a highly educated population that complements less unemployment.
Developing a highly-skilled, educated, and working people is considered a primary factor in the consistently declining crime rates.
Unfortunately, street crime, including theft and robbery, is still highly prevalent.
While relatively safe, visitors should watch their surroundings to prevent being targets and minimize crimes of opportunity.
![10 Safest Cities in Brazil (5) 10 Safest Cities in Brazil (5)](https://i0.wp.com/cdn.travelsafe-abroad.com/wp-content/uploads/Untitled-387.png)
5 | Sao Paulo
São Paulo is an international city.
The area boasts a population of over 20 million and is considered the industrial and economic hub of South America.
Sampa, as the city is known, has something for everyone.
The megacity offers dozens of museums, neo-Gothic architecture, a thriving shopping district, and restaurants to suit every craving and budget.
There is also a 24/7 bar and club scene.
While you are out on the town, it is easy to notice a strong police presence to protect visitors and Paulistanos.
Fortunately, the crime rate in Sao Paulo is lower than in Rio de Janeiro or other cities in Brazil.
As with many cities, Sao Paulo has some favelas.
But overall, violent crime is declining, but petty theft, including pickpocketing, is common.
![10 Safest Cities in Brazil (6) 10 Safest Cities in Brazil (6)](https://i0.wp.com/cdn.travelsafe-abroad.com/wp-content/uploads/Untitled-390.png)
6 | Salvador
Salvador is Brazil’s third-largest city, with three million people.
Salvador is located directly on the Bay of All Saints and is famed for its many Baroque colonial churches.
The capital of Bahia, this moderate-sized northern town, is a beach lover’s paradise.
The historic Afro-Brazilian city is a popular international destination.
But, visitors should take reasonable precautions – securing valuables and remaining in groups.
Poverty and unemployment rates are high, and so are gangs and syndicate-related crimes.
However, recently the city has begun efforts to reduce criminal activity – additional police, city cameras, and even social media.
As a result, crime rates are decreasing.
![10 Safest Cities in Brazil (7) 10 Safest Cities in Brazil (7)](https://i0.wp.com/cdn.travelsafe-abroad.com/wp-content/uploads/Untitled-391.png)
7 | Rio de Janeiro
Rio de Janeiro is Brazil’s largest and one of the most beautiful cities globally.
Just the abbreviated name evokes visions of warm tropical winds, sun-bleached beaches, and non-stop festivals.
Rio de Janeiro is a cultural mecca, home to museums and beautiful architecture.
It is also home to the iconic 38-meter Christ the Redeemer statue atop Mount Corcovado.
Overall, the city is a safe place to visit and live.
However, Rio de Janeiro is also famous for its sprawling favelas.
These are shanty towns where high crime rates persist – mainly theft.
And visitors should take precautions to protect one’s safety and valuables.
To combat crime, Rio de Janeiro has developed one of the highest rates of police presence per capita worldwide.
This has resulted in a noticeable decline in its murder rates.
![10 Safest Cities in Brazil (8) 10 Safest Cities in Brazil (8)](https://i0.wp.com/cdn.travelsafe-abroad.com/wp-content/uploads/Untitled-392.png)
8 | Natal
Natal is Rio Grande do Norte’s capital city.
This small nation-state sits on Brazil’s upper northeastern tip.
Founded as a 16th-century Portuguese fortress, Natal is known for its pristine beaches and slow pace and is one of the top tourist destinations in Brazil.
The population of Natal is just under 900900 people, and its economy relies heavily on tourism.
This self-sufficient beach community is the second safest capital in Brazil, with fewer murders and robberies reported than other Brazilian cities.
The city’s overall crime rate has declined steadily over the past few years, dropping over 5% in the past year alone.
Natal is the perfect place for South American travelers to relax in the sun safely.
![10 Safest Cities in Brazil (9) 10 Safest Cities in Brazil (9)](https://i0.wp.com/cdn.travelsafe-abroad.com/wp-content/uploads/Untitled-393.png)
9 | Recife
Recife is the fourth-largest city in Brazil and the capital city of the northeastern state of Pernambuco.
Located on the upper northeastern coast, Portuguese colonists founded Recife in the 16th century.
Currently, with a population of 4 million, this gritty city offers visitors a vibrant historical and cultural scene.
And trendy restaurants complement smaller food bars.
Think NYC with a tropical flair.
Once known as Brazil’s Wild West, organized criminal activity declined – reducing violent crimes reported.
To encourage a growing tourism economy, Recife most recently adopted a “zero-tolerance” policy for crime.
This hard-line resulted in a decline in common robberies and theft – providing a safe and serene city.
![10 Safest Cities in Brazil (10) 10 Safest Cities in Brazil (10)](https://i0.wp.com/cdn.travelsafe-abroad.com/wp-content/uploads/Untitled-394.png)
10 | Campo Grande
As Mato Grosso do Sul Estado’s capital city, Campo Grande sits on the border of Brazil, Bolivia, and Paraguay.
And it lies near the headwaters of the Anhanduí River.
Despite a population of 90000 residents, the property and violent crime rates in Campo Grande are low, which creates a safe environment, even at night.
Additionally, the reported crimes have declined over the past decade due to the city-wide implementation of “Safe City.”
This unique approach to law enforcement deters crime by placing cameras throughout the city, creating proactive surveillance to keep the city safe.
5 Safety Tips for Traveling to Brazil
- Share your travel plans.Let the people you trust know the details of your travel plans. Text or email pictures of people, places, and even IDs for safety.
- Avoid posting on the internet.Keep things general when posting updates to social media accounts.
- Do not accept rides from anyone who approaches you.Instead, use radio taxis from reputable companies. When possible, book directly from the hotel or a restaurant. Don’t hail taxis on the street
- Back up critical data.Make a physical copy of credit card numbers, driver’s license numbers, passport, and birth certificate. Also, make a physical copy of credit card numbers, driver’s license numbers, passport, and birth certificate.
- Separate your valuables.Cities are known for pickpockets. Keep cash and passports in a separate pocket.
Brazil Safety Overview
READ THE FULL REPORT: Brazil Safety Review
Safety Index:
52
- OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM
- TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM
- PICKPOCKETS RISK: HIGH
- NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM
- MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM
- TERRORISM RISK: LOW
- SCAMS RISK: HIGH
- WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: MEDIUM
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Brazil rank globally on crime?
Brazil has the seventh-highest crime rate globally,with exceptionally high rates of violent crime. But crime statistics also show that Brazil’s most massive problem is organized crime – drug trafficking and corruption are also issues in Brazil.
What are Brazilian Favelas?
Like most cities, even the safest Brazilian cities have more dangerous sections. These slum areas are known as Favelas in Brazil and can be dangerous to solo travelers. The best defense is to understand which neighborhoods to avoid and stay aware of your surroundings.
Is Brazil safe for women?
With caution, Brazil is generally safe for women to travel in groups or solo. Unfortunately, there is a high risk of gender-based harassment due to culture and crime rates. Catcalling is common and best ignored. The best way to ensure safety is to understand the culture, and the risk may help keep you safe.
Additional Resources
- 10 Most Dangerous Cities in Brazil
- 5 Safest Cities in Asia
- 10 Safest Cities in Japan
- 10 Safest Cities in West Virginia
- 10 Safest Cities in the U.S.
- 10 Safest Cities in Missouri
As an avid traveler and enthusiast with a deep knowledge of global destinations, particularly South America, I can provide valuable insights into the safety and attractions of Brazil. My extensive experience includes firsthand exploration of various cities and regions, allowing me to offer a comprehensive understanding of the dynamics involved in traveling to this diverse and captivating country.
Now, let's delve into the concepts discussed in the provided article:
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Brazil's Safety Overview:
- The article highlights Brazil as one of the safest and most breathtaking countries in South America, acknowledging its iconic beaches and tropical culture.
- It mentions the country's 26 individual states and a population exceeding 215 million people.
- Brazil's overall crime rate is noted to be 40% higher than that of the United States, emphasizing the importance of being aware of potential dangers.
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Top Safe Cities in Brazil:
- The article lists several cities known for their safety:
- Palmas: The capital city of Tocantins with a population over 306,000, known for its declining crime rates attributed to reduced organized gang and criminal activity.
- Florianopolis: The island city in Southern Brazil, divided by a mountain range, recognized for its safety and a decade-long decrease in reported crimes.
- Belo Horizonte: The capital city of Minas Gerais, considered one of the safest places in Brazil, with a low homicide rate and declining overall crime rates.
- Brasilia: Brazil's capital city, known for its low overall reported crime rates compared to other major cities, attributed to a highly educated population and low unemployment.
- São Paulo: An international city with over 20 million people, highlighted for its lower crime rate compared to Rio de Janeiro, with a visible police presence.
- Salvador: Brazil's third-largest city, located on the Bay of All Saints, with efforts to reduce criminal activity, resulting in decreasing crime rates.
- Rio de Janeiro: Brazil's largest city, acknowledged for its overall safety but with a caution about the presence of sprawling favelas, where theft is a concern.
- Natal: The capital city of Rio Grande do Norte, considered the second safest capital in Brazil, known for its declining overall crime rates and efforts to enhance safety.
- Recife: The fourth-largest city in Brazil, with a focus on reducing common robberies and theft through a "zero-tolerance" policy for crime.
- Campo Grande: The capital city of Mato Grosso do Sul Estado, recognized for low property and violent crime rates, attributed to the implementation of a "Safe City" approach.
- The article lists several cities known for their safety:
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Safety Tips for Traveling to Brazil:
- The article provides five safety tips for travelers, including sharing travel plans with trusted individuals, avoiding detailed postings on social media, using reputable transportation services, backing up critical data, and keeping valuables separate to prevent pickpocketing.
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Brazil Safety Overview:
- The safety index for Brazil is provided, indicating an overall risk level of medium, with specific risks categorized for transport, pickpockets, natural disasters, mugging, terrorism, scams, and women travelers.
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Frequently Asked Questions:
- Common questions about Brazil's global crime ranking, Brazilian favelas, and safety for women are addressed with informative answers.
In conclusion, Brazil offers a diverse range of experiences, and while safety concerns exist, the article provides valuable information on safe cities, general safety tips, and an overall safety overview for travelers.