Don't just visit
Rio De Janeiro..
 

This is one of the most common questions travellers ask — and it's an important one.

Short Answer: Yes, Rio is generally safe for tourists

Despite what you might hear in the media, Rio de Janeiro is not as dangerous for visitors as it’s often portrayed. Rio does have higher crime rates on paper — but most violent incidents involve conflicts between rival gangs and police forces inside favelas (communities). These situations will rarely affect foreign visitors visiting the city for a week or two.

That said, like in any large city, basic precautions are essential: • Avoid aimlessly walking around with your phone in hand (you can still use your phone to send a quick text or check Google Maps, just be aware!)

• Don’t wear expensive jewellery or watches.

• Invest in a cross body bag to minimise pick pocketing.

• Stay in populated, well-lit areas, especially at night.

If you follow these simple safety tips, you’ll likely have no issues during your stay. Rio de Janeiro is a lively, welcoming, and unforgettable city — and it can be explored safely with the right information and awareness.

At Become Carioca, we help visitors experience the real Rio — safely, authentically, and stress-free.

If you ever have doubts about where to go or what to avoid, just contact us. Our local team is always ready to help.

Short answer: Yes — you can safely use your phone in Rio, with common sense.

When you arrive in Rio you'll quickly realise that most locals (and tourists) use their phones normally in public; it’s all about being aware of your surroundings.

• Quickly check your phone if needed, but don’t walk with it out constantly.

• Keep it in a secure zip pocket or crossbody bag to avoid pick pocketers.

• In nightlife areas like Lapa, be cautious — “drive-by” phone thefts can happen.

Think of Become Carioca as your guardian angel, watching over you from above- allowing you to spend less time over thinking, and more time taking in the experience!

Many travellers are curious about Rio’s favelas — and yes, some are safe to visit if done responsibly.

In truth, a favela is only dangerous when:

1. Rival gangs (factions) are in conflict, or

2. A police operation is underway.

Many favelas remain peaceful because one faction maintains control, creating stability. Locals are used to respectful visitors and generally ignore tourists. Factions inside the favelas operate more like criminal enterprises rather than wild street gangs, so they are not incentivised to cause harm to tourists in any way.

Here’s how to visit safely: • Never go alone. • Only enter with a local resident or professional tour guide. • Check for any police operations before visiting.

At Become Carioca, we organize authentic favela tours with guides who live in those communities. This means you can navigate the landscape safely and authentically. Our team constantly monitors local updates, so we’ll always know if there’s any area to avoid.

While you can explore Rio on your own, having a personal tour guide makes a huge difference to your experience.

A local guide helps you understand Brazilian culture on a deeper level — from the history behind the major attractions to the everyday customs that most visitors never get to see. Since many Brazilians don’t speak English, a guide also acts as your bridge to the local culture, making interactions smoother and more enjoyable.

Rio is an incredible city, but it can feel intimidating at times - especially if it's your first time visiting and you don't speak Portuguese. Neighbourhoods like Lapa at night, Centro, and Santa Teresa are best explored with someone who understands the area and knows how to navigate it safely. You’ll also enjoy the comfort of having a personal driver, making travel between attractions far easier, safer, and more relaxing.

If you want to visit a favela, you’ll need a guide — these areas shouldn’t be entered alone. With a professional guide, you get a respectful, informed, and authentic experience.

On top of all of this, Become Carioca offer ongoing Whatsapp support throughout your trip, so if you ever need help, advice, or adjustments to your itinerary, we’re always just a message away.

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