10 Safest Cities in Brazil in 2024 (2024)

Looking for information about the safest cities in Brazil for your upcoming trip to South America? You’re in the right place!

Traveling to Brazil is an exciting adventure that promises diverse landscapes, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality. I have personally experienced this beautiful country twice – once as a solo traveler and another time accompanied by my family ( including my energetic four-year-old twins). Brazil has unlimited beauty and adventure to offer, but it’s important to explore it safely.

Brazil’s allure lies in its breathtaking natural wonders, from the lush Amazon rainforest to the stunning beaches of Rio de Janeiro. Rich in both history and culture, Brazil boasts iconic landmarks like the Christ the Redeemer statue, captivating samba rhythms, and mouthwatering culinary delights.

It’s important to acknowledge that, like any destination, Brazil has its share of cities and areas that are safer than others. By staying informed about local customs, heeding advice from fellow travelers, and maintaining situational awareness, you can navigate the country with confidence and minimize potential risks.

In this blog post, you will learn about the safest cities in Brazil including unique attractions and experiences in each city. Additionally, you’ll also learn useful safety tips that can be utilized within Brazil and any other travel destination.

What is Brazil’s Safety Rating?

Brazil is full of vibrant culture, friendly people, beautiful beaches, stunning nature, lively festivals, and sprawling cities. However, in recent years, Brazil has gained a reputation as being dangerous for international travelers due to its increased crime rate.

So, is Brazil safe to travel to? Yes, it is possible to travel to Brazil safely.

The US Department of State currently lists Brazil at a Level 2 Exercise Increased Caution. A Level 2 ranking is common in many places around the world, including many countries in Europe and other popular tourist destinations.

There are a few select places in Brazil that are listed as Level 4 Do Not Travel. Those places include the Favelas, or housing developments, as well as some areas along the international borders near Venezuela and Colombia.

While it is true that Brazil has dealt with high crime rates in the past, the country is seeing an overall decrease in recent years. Overall, many cities in Brazil are considered safe to travel to, as long as you exercise caution and utilize common safety tips.

The Top 10 Safest Cities in Brazil

Brazil is a large country with a population of over 214 million people spread throughout many large, urban cities. The following 10 cities are considered to be some of the safest cities in Brazil to visit.

1. Florianópolis

As the capital of southern Brazil’s Santa Catarina state, Florianópolis is widely known for its beautiful beaches. A large portion of the city is actually on Santa Catarina Island, which has several popular tourist areas such as Praia dos Ingleses.

As a tropical paradise, Florianópolis is quite popular with international tourists. The city has a population of over 500,000, a bit smaller than that of some of the other cities in Brazil. However, Florianópolis has one of the lowest crime rates in the country, making it one of the safest cities in Brazil to visit.

Where to Stay in Florianópolis Brazil

Mid-Range Florianópolis Hotel: Hotel Porto da Ilha
🌟 Rating 8.9/10 Book Here

Located in the city center of Florianópolis, Hotel Porto da Ilha enjoys easy access to shopping centers, restaurants, and cultural sites. With all the modern hotel amenities, this is a very convenient option for travelers.

👉 Check the Price and Availability of Hotel Porto da Ilha 👈

Luxury Florianópolis Hotel– IL Campanario Villaggio Resort
🌟 Rating 8.5/10 Book Here

IL Campanario Villaggio Resort is located in the upscale neighborhood of Jurerê Internacional. This resort offers grand suites with kitchenettes, multiple swimming pools, a spa, a fitness center, and various dining options. Guests can also enjoy beach service and plenty of recreational activities. The elegant design and prime waterfront location, along with the lavish amenities, make this hotel ideal for those seeking a high-end getaway.

👉 Check the Price and Availability of IL Campanario Villaggio Resort 👈

2. Curitiba

Curitiba is the capital of the Paraná region and has about 1.7 million residents. It’s a beautiful city with lots of green spaces. Some of the best things to do are to visit the impressive Botanical Garden of Curitiba (pictured above), check out the Oscar Niemeyer Art Museum, or take a stroll through Tangua Park.

In terms of safety, Curitiba tends to have lower crime rates than other Brazilian cities, making it one of the safiest cities in Brazil to visit. Curitiba also has some of the highest standards of living in Brazil.

Where to stay in Curitiba

Mid-Range Curitiba Hotel: Bourbon Curitiba Hotel
🌟 Rating 8.5/10 Book Here

Bourbon Curitiba Hotel is centrally located and offers modern rooms with free Wi-Fi, a fitness center, a swimming pool, and complimentary breakfast. The hotel also has an on-site restaurant and is within walking distance of many attractions, making it a convenient and comfortable choice for travelers.

👉 Check the Price and Availability of Bourbon Curitiba Hotel 👈

Mid-Range Curitiba Hotel: Nomaa Hotel
🌟 Rating 9.5/10 Book Here

For those seeking a more luxurious experience, Nomaa Hotel is a great option. Situated in the upscale Batel neighborhood, it features elegant rooms with high-end amenities, a gourmet restaurant, a fitness center, and a rooftop terrace. The hotel’s sophisticated design and exceptional service, along with its proximity to chic shops and fine dining, provide a luxurious and memorable stay.

👉 Check the Price and Availability of Nomaa Hotel 👈

3. Belo Horizonte

Belo Horizonte is the capital of the Minas Gerais state in southeastern Brazil. The city has a population of about 2.7 million people and it is famous for its art-deco-style architecture, Mineirão Stadium, and beautiful green spaces. It’s also known as the bar capital of Brazil!

Belo Horizonte is considered to be among the safest cities in Brazil, with lower crime rates in comparison to other cities of the same size. While you should always take safety precautions when traveling, it is fairly safe to walk around Belo Horizonte, especially during the day.

Where to stay in Belo Horizonte

Mid-Range Belo Horizonte Hotel: Holiday Inn Belo Horizonte Savassi
🌟 Rating 8.9/10 Book Here

Holiday Inn Belo Horizonte Savassi is a perfect choice for those seeking affordable and convenient lodging in this beautiful city. Located in the vibrant Savassi neighborhood, you’ll have everything you need: comfortable rooms, an on-site gym, an outdoor pool, complimentary breakfast, and a hotel restaurant.

👉 Check the Price and Availability of Holiday Inn Belo Horizonte Savassi 👈

Luxury Belo Horizonte Hotel: Ouro Minas Palace Hotel
🌟 Rating 8.3/10 Book Here

Ouro Minas Palace Hotel is an excellent choice for those looking for a luxury hotel in Belo Horizonte. This five-star hotel offers luxurious rooms with high-end amenities, an indoor pool, a spa, a fitness center, and multiple dining options. Book your stay here to enjoy a prime location near the Belo Horizonte city center, exceptional service, and a memorable experience!

👉 Check the Price and Availability of Ouro Minas Palace Hotel 👈

4. Brasilia

Brasilia is the capital of Brazil and is home to over four million people. Brasilia is famous for its unique urban design, which earned the city its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The highlight of Brasilia is its incredible modern architecture.

Brasilia is considered to be one of the safest cities in Brazil. The crime rates here are lower when compared to the safety ratings of other cities of the same size in South America. Especially in the central part of the city, it is quite safe to walk around and explore.

As with any city, there are some areas that tourists would want to stay away from. In Brasilia, these areas are found on the outskirts of the city and are referred to as satellite cities. These include Ceilandia, Santa Maria, Sao Sebastiao, and Paranoa. These satellite cities experience higher crime rates than central Brasilia, so it’s best to avoid them after dark.

Where to stay in Brasilia

Mid-Range Brasilia Hotel: Saint Moritz Hplus Express
🌟 Rating 8.8/10 Book Here

Located in the North Hotel Sector, Saint Moritz Hplus Express offers sophisticated rooms, a rooftop pool, a fitness center, and complimentary breakfast. You’ll enjoy a comfortable and convenient stay in the heart of Brasilia, within walking distance of key landmarks like the Esplanade of Ministries.

👉 Check the Price and Availability of Saint Mortiz Hplus Express 👈

Luxury Brasilia Hotel: Royal Tulip Brasilia Alvorada
🌟 Rating 8.8/10 Book Here

For a high-end, relaxing experience, consider Royal Tulip Brasília Alvorada. Situated by Lake Paranoá, this five-star hotel features elegant rooms with luxury amenities, a large outdoor pool, spa, a fitness center, and plenty of dining options. The stunning architecture, lush gardens, and exceptional service make it ideal for those ready to be pampered on vacation.

👉 Check the Price and Availability of Royal Tulip Brasilia Alvorada 👈

5. São Paulo

São Paulo is Brazil’s largest city and the most populated city in all of South America. São Paulo is a major tourist destination in Brazil and is known for its museums, parks, and modern skyscrapers.

As with any large city, there are safe areas and unsafe areas of São Paulo. Most areas in the central part of the city are safe for travelers to explore, especially during daylight hours. During my first visit to São Paulo, I explored the city on my own by foot and metro. I felt completely comfortable doing so during the day. As a solo female traveler, I made sure to head back to my hotel in São Paulo when the sun started to set.

Some of the safest neighborhoods in São Paulo include but are not limited to, Bela Vista, Jardins, Consolação, and Itaim Bibi.

Where to stay in Sao Paulo

Mid-Range Sao Paulo Hotel: Radisson Sao Paulo Paulista
🌟 Rating 8.2/10 Book Here

If you’re seeking comfortable and convenient, yet affordable accommodations in São Paulo, consider Radisson São Paulo Paulista. Stay in the beautiful Bela Vista neighborhood and enjoy modern hotel accommodations – all within walking distance of shopping, dining, and cultural attractions.

👉 Check the Price and Availability of Radisson Sao Paulo Paulista 👈

Luxury Sao Paulo Hotel: Hotel Unique
🌟 Rating 9.2/10 Book Here

Located in the upscale Jardins neighborhood, the iconic Hotel Unique is certainly a more lavish choice. Not only will you enjoy all the high-end amenities of a luxury stay, but the visually striking architecture of this hotel alone will be sure to leave you breathless. Be sure to have dinner or a drink at the acclaimed rooftop bar and restaurant to soak in the panoramic city views!

👉 Check the Price and Availability of Hotel Unique 👈

6. Joinville

Joinville is located in southern Brazil and is the largest city in Santa Catarina. It is a smaller city, with a population of close to 600,000 people. Today it is considered a German-Brazilian city, but it was originally inhabited by the Guaraní people, and later on by French immigrants to Brazil.

Joinville is considered to be a moderately safe city to visit in South America. Its home state, Santa Catarina, is also considered to be one of the safest regions in Brazil.

Where to stay in Joinville

Mid-Range Joinville Hotel: Bourbon Joinville Hotel
🌟 Rating 8.5/10 Book Here

For a comfortable night’s rest in Joinville, consider the Bourbon Joinville Hotel. Centrally located, you’ll enjoy the feel of a safe and modern hotel while remaining in proximity to various shopping and dining options.

👉 Check the Price and Availability of Bourbon Joinville Hotel 👈

Luxury Joinville Hotel: Hotel Tannenhof
🌟 Rating 9.0/10 Book Here

If you’re looking for a step up from an ordinary stay, look into booking a room at the stunning Hotel Tannenhof. This upscale hotel features elegant rooms with high-end amenities, an outdoor pool, a fitness center, and an on-site restaurant serving gourmet cuisine. Located in the city center, you’ll enjoy easy access to major attractions and business district

👉 Check the Price and Availability of Hotel Tannenhof 👈

7. Palmas

Palmas is the capital city of the Tocantins state in central Brazil. It’s a smaller city with a population of just over 300,000 people. Things to do in Palmas include visiting Cesamar Park, Roncador Waterfall, or Sunflower Square – the main historic square in the city.

Palmas is considered to be one of the safest cities in Brazil and tends to have lower crime rates per population than other areas of the country.

Where to stay in Palmas

Mid-Range Palmas Hotel: Ibis Styles Palmas
🌟 Rating 8.1/10 Book Here

For lodging in Palmas, consider Ibis Styles Palmas. Located in the heart of the city, this hotel offers restful sleep at a fair price. Stop by the on-site restaurant for a complimentary breakfast or convenient dinner – or simply walk down the street to grab some authentic and delicious grub at one of the many restaurants in the area.

👉 Check the Price and Availability of Ibis Styles Palmas 👈

Mid-Range Palmas Hotel: Hotel Girassol Plaza
🌟 Rating 8.5/10 Book Here

If you’re seeking a little more luxury, look no further than Hotel Girassol Plaza. One of the more upscale hotels in Palmas, this place has stylish rooms, excellent service, and high-end amenities. Take a dip in the outdoor pool or indulge at the on-site gourmet restaurant.

👉 Check the Price and Availability of Hotel Girassol 👈

8. Natal

Natal is located in the state of Rio Grande do Norte in Northeast Brazil. Natal has a population of around 800,000 people and is most well-known for its stunning coastline, sand dunes, and beautiful beaches. One of its most popular places to visit in Natal is Ponta Negra Beach.

Natal is considered to be one of the safer cities in the Northeastern part of Brazil. While it is important to still follow common safety practices, it is a relatively safe city in Brazil to visit and enjoy the beautiful beaches.

Where to stay in Natal

Mid-Range Natal Hotel: Golden Tulip Natal Ponta Negra
🌟 Rating 9.1/10 Book Here

Golden Tulip Natal Ponta Negra, located near the famous Ponta Negra Beach provides stylish, comfortable rooms with complimentary Wi-Fi. Guests can enjoy a refreshing dip in the outdoor pool, stay active in the fitness center, and start their day with a delicious complimentary breakfast. This prime location offers easy access to an array of restaurants, bars, and shopping centers.

👉 Check the Price and Availability of Hotel Girassol 👈

Mid-Range Natal Hotel: Golden Tulip Natal Ponta Negra
🌟 Rating 8.9/10 Book Here

Serhs Natal Grand Hotel & Resort is a clear standout when it comes to luxury accommodations in Natal. Positioned between the beautiful Ponta Negra and Areia Preta beaches, this stunning resort boasts an array of high-end amenities – including multiple swimming pools, a serene spa, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and diverse dining options. The rooms are elegantly designed, offering breathtaking panoramic ocean views. The resort’s exceptional service and stunning location make it perfect for those seeking a lavish and unforgettable stay.

👉 Check the Price and Availability of Serhs Natal Grand Hotel & Resort 👈

9. Porto Alegre

Porto Alegre is the capital of Rio Grande do Sul in southern Brazil. There are around four million people living in Porto Alegre and the city is known for its incredible food scene. If you’re lucky enough to visit, be sure to frequent the churrascarias – delicious barbecue steakhouses. Porto Alegre also has beautiful cathedrals, museums, and a stunning state palace.

Porto Alegre is a fairly safe place to visit as a tourist, especially during the daytime. It is still best to practice common safety tips, like avoiding walking around at night by yourself.

Where to stay in Porto Alegre

Mid-Range Porto Alegre Hotel: Golden Tulip Natal Ponta Negra
🌟 Rating 8.2/10 Book Here

For your stay in Porto Alegre, consider the vibrant Intercity Porto Alegre Cidade Baixa. Located directly in the heart of the eclectic Cidade Baixa neighborhood, this hotel has everything you need for an enjoyable vacation. Dive into the rooftop pool for a refreshing swim with city views, and kickstart your morning with a delicious complimentary breakfast. The prime location puts you right in the middle of Porto Alegre’s best nightlife, quirky cafés, and cultural hotspots, making every day an adventure.

👉 Check the Price and Availability of Intercity Porto Alegre Cidade Baixa 👈

Luxury Porto Alegre Hotel: Hotel Deville Prime Porto Alegre
🌟 Rating 9.1/10 Book Here

For those that prefer a luxury hotel, look no further than Hotel Deville Prime Porto Alegre. Located near Salgado Filho International Airport, this hotel seamlessly blends elegance and comfort. The opulent rooms provide a serene retreat with top-tier amenities. Guests can unwind by the tranquil outdoor pool, enjoy a game on the tennis courts, or keep up with their workout routine in the fully equipped fitness center. With lush, beautifully landscaped gardens and exquisite dining options, this hotel is more than a place to stay—it’s an experience.

👉 Check the Price and Availability of Hotel Deville Prime Porto Alegre 👈

10. Rio de Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro is the most popular travel destination in Brazil by a landslide. Rio is located in southeastern Brazil and has a population of about 6.7 million. The city is most famous for its impressive Christ the Redeemer statue, stunning Sugar Loaf Mountain, and the beautiful beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema. Rio is also known around the world for Carnival – a vibrant and exquisite festival that takes place every February. There are also plenty of fun and exciting day trips to take from Rio de Janeiro – so it’s a great home base for your trip to Brazil.

In recent years, Rio de Janeiro has gained a reputation for being unsafe. However, Rio is a large city and there are plenty of neighborhoods that are safe for tourists. These neighborhoods are mostly in the southern zone of the city.

Some of the safest areas in Rio include Ipanema, Leblon, and Copacabana. My family personally stayed in Barra da Tijuca, an upscale neighborhood, and felt very safe taking evening strolls to dinner and back to our hotel in Rio.

While these are known as safer areas of Rio, it is still best to follow common safety practices and avoid walking on the beaches alone at night.

There are places that tourists should avoid in Rio de Janeiro. These include all of the Favelas, otherwise known as shanty towns. These areas typically have high crime rates and gang violence, so it’s best to avoid them unless you are a part of an organized tour.

Where to stay in Rio de Janeiro

Mid-Range Rio de Janeiro Hotel: Windsor California Copacabana
🌟 Rating 9.0/10 Book Here

Windsor California Copacabana is perfectly located directly across the street from the beach and within walking distance to anything you may need. Not only is the location great, but the accommodations and service are as well. All at a rather affordable rate.

👉 Check the Price and Availability of Windsor California Copacabana 👈

Luxury Rio de Janeiro Hotel: Belmond Copacabana Palace
🌟 Rating 9.5/10 Book Here

Now, if you’re up for a splurge, check out Belmond Copacabana Palace. Right on Copacabana Beach, here, it’s all about luxury. The rooms are elegant with high-end amenities, not to mention two on-site pools to soak up the sun. You can relax at the spa, hit the gym, and dine at some gourmet restaurants. The place is full of old-world charm and top-notch service – book here for an absolutely unforgettable experience!

👉 Check the Price and Availability of Belmond Copacabana Palace 👈

Is Brazil Safe for Travel?

Now that I’ve covered the safest cities in Brazil, you may be wondering, is Brazil a safe country to travel to? And, if so, who can travel safely to Brazil?

In short, yes– Brazil is safe for travel. Like all cities around the world, Brazilian cities face issues with crime rates. However, if you follow common safety precautions it is completely possible to have an amazing and safe trip to Brazil.

Is Brazil Safe for Families?

Brazil is a safe destination for families and is a very family-friendly country to visit. Family is an important part of Brazilian culture so Brazilians are very welcoming to families and children. In Brazil, it’s common for children to come with their parents to restaurants and beaches and take part in other family activities.

Many of the restaurants we frequented with our twin four-year-olds had either a special section for kids to play or free meals for kids under a certain age.

Traveling with kids to Brazil will take some extra planning, as it does with any destination. In general, you will still follow the same safety precautions, such as making sure to stay in a safe part of town and not wandering around late at night. When traveling with children, another safety aspect to consider is transportation. For example, if you have small children and plan on riding in a car, it may be necessary to bring a car seat.

We brought our WAYB Pico car seats to Brazil and were very glad we did. Since they are foldable and only 8 pounds each, it was extremely easy to transport them. As a bonus, the carrying case is extra spacious, which allowed us to bring home extra goodies that couldn’t fit in our suitcases.

Don’t forget to bring kid sunscreen for all the family time you’ll enjoy on Brazil’s sunny beaches.

Is Brazil Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Solo female travelers can visit Brazil safely. Brazilian people are very friendly, which makes Brazil a great country to visit as a solo traveler. There are many opportunities to meet people in safe ways, such as staying at hostels and participating in social activities or joining in on a group tour.

Personally, I loved how Brazilians would always try to have a conversation with you even knowing your Portuguese is limited and their English is not much better. If you’re open to trying, it makes an amazing memory from your trip to Brazil.

As a solo female traveler, there are certain safety precautions that I always follow, no matter what country I’m in. For example, always let a friend or family member know what your travel plans are and check in with them occasionally throughout your trip. If you are going out, try to go with a group from your hostel or hop on a local tour. Additionally, it’s a good idea to take an Uber or taxi rather than walk home, especially late at night.

Is Brazil Safe for LGBTQ+ Travelers?

Yes, Brazil is a safe destination for LGBTQ+ travelers. Brazil is one of the 30+ countries around the world that have laws in place protecting LGBTQ+ rights. Same-sex marriage is recognized in Brazil and has been since 2013. As of 2016, transgender rights laws have been passed to allow people to legally use the name and gender of their choice.

In São Paulo, there is a large and very fun Pride Parade that is celebrated throughout the city every June. There are actually over 100 other Pride Parades throughout the country. Many cities in Brazil also have gay bars and clubs, especially in places like Rio and São Paulo.

In general, LGBTQ+ people are accepted in Brazil, especially in the larger cities. However, it is important to note that in the smaller, rural parts of Brazil, there is still a more conservative and traditional culture that isn’t quite as accepting. An LGBTQ+ traveler visiting smaller towns or rural communities may experience some uncomfortable stares, but violence against LGBTQ+ is extremely rare. Therefore, Brazil is a safe destination for LGBTQ+ travelers, especially in the major cities.

Is It Safe to Take an Uber or Taxi in Brazil?

Taking an Uber or taxi is one of the safest ways to get around the cities in Brazil. In fact, it is typically safer to use a taxi or Uber than it is to walk.

Public transportation is also available and consists of metros, city buses, and long-distance buses. However, public transport can be iffy in some areas or at night, making Uber and taxis the safest option for getting around Brazil.

Be aware that there are some common scams in Brazil regarding taxis. One of the most common ones is when the taxi driver claims the meter is broken and then charges an inflated price at the end of the ride. It is important to check that the meter is working when getting in a taxi, and if it isn’t working just find another taxi.

Another thing to consider when taking a taxi is to have your hotel call you a reputable company, so that you can avoid a scam situation.

Taking an Uber is a great way to avoid taxi scams, as you will pay for the ride upfront through the app. Uber is considered to be a safe mode of transportation in Brazilian cities.

Is It Safe to Drink the Water in Brazil?

The tap water in major cities such as São Paulo and Rio is considered safe to drink, but it may not always taste the best. It may be a good idea to drink bottled water instead as a precaution. In more rural areas, it is best to always drink bottled water and avoid the tap. Another option instead of bottled water is to bring a small water filter, such as a life straw, that filters the water for you.

Is the Food Safe in Brazil?

The food in Brazil is safe to eat, including delicious street food. Similar to the regulations restaurants follow in the U.S., Brazil has strict rules when it comes to food safety. These strict regulations ensure that the food is high quality and safe for both locals and travelers to consume. Brazilian street food is also safe to eat and is definitely worth trying during your trip.

Safety Tips for Traveling to Brazil

There are many safety tips to keep in mind when traveling to any country. The following tips are some great ways to stay safe while traveling to Brazil:

• Be aware of your surroundings
• Avoid walking on the beaches after dark
• Don’t leave your cell phone and valuables unattended when taking a dip in the water – instead use a waterproof bag or fanny pack and take them with you
• Leave unnecessary valuables at home
• Don’t give the appearance of wealth (wearing expensive jewelry, etc.)
• Avoid walking after dark or around unknown areas, especially alone
• Always walk along main streets, avoid alleyways and empty side streets
• Let a friend or family member know your travel plans, especially if you are traveling solo
• Hire a local guide to show you around or take guided tours
• Get travel insurance before your trip

FAQ: Safest Cities in Brazil

When traveling to Brazil, questions and concerns about safety are common. Below are a few commonly asked questions about the safest cities in Brazil.

In Conclusion: Safest Cities in Brazil

Brazil is an amazing country that is filled with natural beauty, history, and culture. Brazilian people are incredibly friendly and many cities in Brazil are safe to visit as an international traveler. While these 10 cities are considered some of the safest cities in Brazil, many other places can be explored as long as you practice common sense and abide by safety tips.