Welcome to Rio de Janeiro
The following information provides key safety tips for the CEMS Community and their guests to help ensure a smooth, safe, and enjoyable stay in Rio.
It also aims to raise awareness of local customs and potential risks.
- Essential Security Tips | Providing you with practical guidelines for a safe trip.
- Peaceful and Safe Stay | Ensuring that your visit is productive and worry-free.
- Risk Awareness | Informing you about local customs and potential dangers.
Before your Departure
Preparing before the trip is essential. Digitize important documents and avoid wearing valuable jewelry. Download essential apps and always keep emergency contacts handy.
Safe Documents |
Keep all physical documents secure. Make digital copies and save them in the cloud or on a secure device.
Embassy |
Register your trip with your embassy. This can be crucial in emergencies or to receive security alerts.
Valuable Items |
Avoid wearing expensive jewelry or high-value electronics in public.
Local Apps |
Download useful apps like Uber and Google Translate. They will make your daily transportation and communication easier.
Upon Airport Arrival
When you arrive, take basic precautions. Decline unsolicited taxi offers and use only official services. Keep your belongings always visible and avoid displaying valuables.
Avoid Unsolicited Taxi Offers |
Ignore direct transportation offers.
Use Trusted Apps |
Prefer Uber or 99 for your safety.
Keep Bags Close |
Do not lose visual contact with your belongings.
Exchange Money Officially |
Use official currency exchange offices at the airport.
Transportation in Rio
Prioritize ride-hailing apps for greater safety and convenience. Avoid public buses, especially in unfamiliar areas. Always stay alert, especially when walking at night, and avoid using your phone openly on the street.
Car Apps |
Uber and 99 are the safest options for getting around.
Avoid Public Buses |
They can be confusing and less safe for tourists.
Recommended Transportation |
Use your hotel’s recommendations for reliable transfers.
Walk with Caution |
Be especially cautious at night or in unfamiliar areas.
Exploring Safe Districts in Rio
While conversations about certain dangerous areas might raise concerns, there's no need to be deterred—Rio de Janeiro boasts many safe neighborhoods where you can immerse yourself in local culture and enjoy your visit with peace of mind. Tourists are typically advised to stay on the southern side of the city, in areas such as:
- Copacabana | The bustling, tourist-oriented parts of Copacabana are generally safe during the daytime and early evening hours. Nevertheless, be mindful of petty crimes like pickpocketing and avoid walking alone after dark.
- Ipanema | Although Ipanema Beach itself carries medium to high risks of theft and muggings, the surrounding neighborhood tends to be safer, especially in busy, well-lit areas. Extra caution is recommended in quieter spots.
- Leblon | An upscale district with private security, making it one of the safest choices for visitors.
- Botafogo | A mixed residential and commercial area that remains safe, particularly during daytime hours.
- Laranjeiras | A peaceful, residential neighborhood known for its good safety record.
- Flamengo | Offers a comfortable balance of safety and accessibility, especially around Flamengo Park.
By concentrating your stay in these safer neighborhoods and adhering to general safety tips, you'll be able to enjoy Rio's vibrant culture and breathtaking scenery confidently. This approach allows you to appreciate iconic spots like Ipanema while understanding how to navigate and minimize potential risks.
Hotel and Accommodation
Choose safe neighborhoods like Copacabana, Ipanema or Leblon for your accommodation. Always lock your room and use the safe for valuables. Be discreet about your travel plans and cautious when interacting with strangers.
Smart Choice |
Prefer Ipanema, Leblon or Copacabana.
Bedroom Safety |
Always lock the room and use the safe.
Discretion |
Do not share your travel plans openly.
Beware of Strangers |
Be cautious when interacting with strangers.
Daily Security Habits
Dress discreetly to avoid drawing attention. Carry minimal money and documents. Stay aware of your surroundings and avoid large crowds. Always ask locals for safety tips about tourist areas.
Dress Modestly |
Avoid flashy clothes or accessories.
Minimum Money |
Carry only the essentials in cash and documents.
Stay Alert |
Stay aware of what’s happening around you.
Avoid Crowds |
Keep a distance from large gatherings.
Neighborhood Tips
The neighborhoods in the South Zone are generally the safest. Ipanema, Leblon, and Copacabana are ideal.
Be careful in the downtown area at night, in Lapa late at night, and in favelas.
Always check the safety before exploring new areas.
Safe Neighborhoods |
Ipanema, Leblon, Lagoa, Copacabana.
Barra da Tijuca could also be a safe option, but is far from all CEMS AE activities.
Special Care |
Downtown at night, Lapa late hours, and favela areas.
Always check local safety.
Emergency Contacts
Always keep local emergency contacts handy.
The Special Police Station for Tourist Support (DEAT) offers 24-hour assistance.
Additionally, familiarize yourself with the basic emergency numbers for police, ambulance, and fire department.
190 POLICE
For any police incident or emergency.
192 AMBULANCE
For urgent medical care and removal.
193 FIRE DEPARTMENT
For fires, accidents, and various rescues.
DEAT LEBLON +55 (21) 2334-6802.
Rua Afrânio de Melo Franco, s/n. - Leblon
DEAT Copacabana +55 (21) 2332-7949
Rua Figueiredo Magalhães, 550 - Copacabana.
Cultural Awareness
Understanding local customs will make your experience richer. Greet with a handshake or a cheek kiss, and respect personal space. Tips of 10% are common.
Greetings |
Handshakes or cheek kisses are common in social interactions.
Personal Space |
Brazilians are usually more comfortable with less personal space. You might find it a little crowded for your liking. Just embrace the feeling.
Tips |
Usually, 10% is included in the bill or given separately.
Sensitive Topics |
Avoid.
