Posts about Safety
Rio de Janeiro Safety Tips
Traveling in Rio requires caution, and Rio de Janeiro safety tips will help you have a safe trip to Brazil.
Like in any big city, travelers in Rio de Janeiro are at risk of being victims of petty crimes. Rio unfortunately has more than its share of these, and also an above average incidence of serious crimes.
That does not mean that you should avoid traveling to Rio de Janeiro, though. There are risks to traveling to Rio, but heeding some Rio de Janeiro safety tips will help you have a safer visit to the city.
Rio de Janeiro Safety Tips
First, avoid wearing any expensive or expensive-looking jewelry, handbags, accessories, sun glasses or watches when walking around the city. These will make you a target for theft in Rio.
Lock your phone and other high-end electronics in your hotel room safe if you don’t absolutely need to bring them around the city with you. Keep all cameras and other gadgets out of sight as much as you can if you carry them in Rio.
Lock your passport, plane tickets, and other travel documents in a safe in your hotel room in Rio. Never leave the hotel with them in your pocket, purse, or bag, and don’t leave them or any other valuables lying around in your hotel room.
Before you travel to Rio de Janeiro, purchase a money belt. When you get there, wear it on the inside of your clothes while you walk around the city. Only bring as much cash as you need to spend while you’re out, and only one credit card.
Buy a fake wallet and put some small change in it. If you get robbed or mugged in Rio, hand over the fake wallet instead of your money belt. That said, if you are pressed for more, do not try to resist. Your safety in Rio is more important than your money.
Do not walk around the streets in Rio de Janeiro at night. Even during the day it is best to avoid walking on small, deserted side streets or in sparsely populated areas.
Do not try to hail taxis on the street in Rio de Janeiro. Ask your hotel to call a taxi for you or use a hotel car. Yes, it is more expensive. But it is a lot less risky than taking a street taxi in Rio.