Note: This article’s statistics come from third-party sources and do not represent the opinions of this website.
Brazil is one of the world’s most beautiful countries. It has iconic beaches, breathtaking scenery, and vibrant culture. It has enchantment for lovers of all things tropical. What’s more, this country boasts some of the safest cities in Latin America.
No matter what city you’re in, it’s always comforting to know that the area is safe. It’s even true when you are traveling to an unfamiliar place. Some cities in the world are dangerous, but there are others where danger is less common.
To help you make an informed decision on which cities to travel to, here is a list of some of the safest cities in Brazil. Let’s jump right in!
The 10 Safest Cities in Brazil: A Quick Look
1. Palmas
| Population: | 306,296 |
| Safety Index: | 58.33 |
| Average Annual Household Income: | $82,228 |
| Crime Index: | 41.67 |
Palmas is located near the geographic center of Brazil, along the Tocantins River. It rests in the rainforest state of the Tocantins, which is known for its indigenous tribes, beautiful rivers, and diverse wildlife.
It is one of the fastest-growing cities in Brazil. The cost of living here is low, but the amenities are abundant. The city has a modern public transportation system that includes buses and ferries.
Palmas is considered one of the safest cities in Brazil. It’s because it doesn’t experience much gang activity or organized crime compared to other Brazilian cities. This city maintains a low crime rate despite rapid expansion over the last decade.
Another reason why Palmas is so safe is the high economic growth that has taken place in the city over the past few decades. The city has experienced an influx of skilled workers from all over Brazil, with more people moving here for jobs. They have helped improve the economy.
2. Florianopolis
| Population: | 1,277,547 |
| Safety Index: | 68.00 |
| Average Annual Household Income: | $65,858 |
| Crime Index: | 51.79 |
Florianopolis is an island city in Southern Brazil and also the capital of Santa Catarina. Most of the city’s population lives on the island. It’s divided into two distinct sides by a mountain range.
This Brazilian island city is considered one of the safest places to live in South America. The residents have a strong sense of community, which helps keep crime rates down.
The city has a strong focus on the environment. It has several nature reserves dotting the landscape. As a result, it’s popular with tourists seeking adventure and outdoor activities. It also boasts some fantastic beaches. So, it’s a major draw for visitors from all over Brazil and abroad.
Florianopolis remains a safe destination for tourists and residents alike despite its popularity. Crime has been a problem in Brazil for many years. But the crime rate in Florianopolis has gone down in recent years.
3. Belo Horizonte
| Population: | 2,722,000 |
| Safety Index: | 36.23 |
| Average Annual Household Income: | $72,050 |
| Crime Index: | 75.79 |
Belo Horizonte is the capital of the state of Minas Gerais. It’s located in Southeastern Brazil. The city also ranks as one of the most beautiful cities in Brazil. It’s known for its cultural life and amazing architecture.
Its name means “beautiful horizon.” It’s fitting considering the city’s position between two mountain ranges (Serra do Curral and Serra da Moeda).
Belo Horizonte has earned a reputation for being one of the safest places in Brazil. The city boasts a low homicide rate and a declining crime rate. But be alert when heading out into the streets as violence can happen at any time of day.
Usually, the city is safe for visitors, although petty crimes, such as pickpocketing, occur. When visiting the city, it’s best to avoid walking at night and taking unmarked taxis.
There are many reasons why this city is considered safe. But one of them is because its residents are friendly and helpful towards tourists. They’ll help you with anything, from directions to finding restaurants or hotels nearby. You’ll never feel alone when visiting Belo Horizonte!
4. Brasilia
| Population: | 4,804,000 |
| Safety Index: | 40.00 |
| Average Annual Household Income: | $44,000 |
| Crime Index: | 70.59 |
Brasilia is the capital of Brazil and is also considered one of the safest cities in the country. The crime rate in this city is low compared to other major cities in Brazil.
There are many reasons Brasilia has a low crime rate. For instance, it has some of the best schools and universities in the entire country. The education levels in this region are above average, and they attract students from other cities as well.
Brasilia also attracts thousands of tourists every year. There are many security officers on duty during the day to protect you when you are in the city.
Many people who come to study here stay and work in the city after finishing their studies. It means there is less unemployment and more jobs available in the area. It helps lower the crime rate because people can find work and care for their families instead of turning to crime out of desperation or boredom.
Although it has had issues with street crime and robberies, these have been steadily declining over the last few years.
5. Sao Paulo
| Population: | 12,330,000 |
| Safety Index: | 29.79 |
| Average Annual Household Income: | $65,931 |
| Crime Index: | 83.46 |
Sao Paulo is the economic hub of Brazil. The city has an eclectic mix of architecture, from Gothic Cathedrals to modern skyscrapers.
The concrete jungle makes it easy to get lost in this megacity. But, don’t worry. The cosmopolitan city of Sao Paulo has been named one of the safest cities in Brazil.
Besides, one of the reasons many people choose Sao Paulo as a destination is the safety aspect. The crime rate in this city is lower than in Rio de Janeiro or other cities in Brazil. Violent crime is less common, but you may encounter cases of petty theft and pickpocketing. So, keep your valuables close.
The police presence in Sao Paulo is high, and you can see armed police officers standing on almost every street corner. It helps deter criminals, and the locals can feel safe.
The city has a lot to offer visitors; the nightlife is vibrant and exciting. If you plan to be out at night, you can get into a taxi without worrying about your safety.
The city also features a host of cultural attractions, from museums and theaters to restaurants and nightclubs. It’s also home to some of the best shopping districts in the country.
6. Salvador
| Population: | 3,920,000 |
| Safety Index: | 24.35 |
| Average Annual Household Income: | $65,963 |
| Crime Index: | 88.59 |
Salvador (Brazil’s third-largest city) is a beachy paradise with a rich history and vibrant culture. It’s increasingly popular among international visitors. It can be intimidating for first-timers. But it is filled with locals eager to share insider tips for getting around, enjoying the beach, and sampling delicious food.
It’s one of the most popular destinations in Brazil. Salvador is also a big city with more than three million people. Poverty and unemployment rates are a bit high, which leads to crime. However, the city has a greater police presence and a crackdown on criminal activity. As a result, it has become much safer in recent years, and the crime rate is decreasing.
Salvador’s low crime rates are due to the efficiency of its police force. The police use cameras and GPS tracking devices on their vehicles to monitor potential crime in real-time and respond swiftly.
Police investigators have also been trained to leverage social media, such as Facebook and WhatsApp. It helps them gain intelligence on crime rings.
7. Rio de Janeiro
| Population: | 6,748,000 |
| Safety Index: | 22.37 |
| Average Annual Household Income: | $75,839 |
| Crime Index: | 90.54 |
Rio de Janeiro is a stunning city that has it all. From white sandy beaches to sprawling rainforests, Rio de Janeiro is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. It’s also Brazil’s largest city. The most iconic site in the city is the Christ the Redeemer statue.
Rio de Janeiro is one of the most popular destinations in Brazil. It’s known as the cultural capital of the country. So, it’s worth a visit if you’re looking for somewhere to call home.
Though some areas experience high crime rates, it’s still considered one of the safest cities in Brazil due to its low murder rates.
There are many reasons why Rio de Janeiro is one of the safest cities in Brazil. First, there are few slums where crimes can occur, and people can hide from law enforcement officers. Also, few traditional street gangs operate within Brazilian cities.
Thirdly, Rio de Janeiro has one of the highest rates of police presence per capita worldwide. There are many police officers on patrol, making it difficult for criminals to commit crimes.
Fourthly, a high-tech surveillance system is monitoring activity around Rio de Janeiro. It brings together all available data from various sources. Also, it ensures that everything possible is done to prevent crime from happening.
8. Natal
| Population: | 890,480 |
| Safety Index: | 21.60 |
| Average Annual Household Income: | $76,001 |
| Crime Index: | 93.44 |
Natal is located in the northeast region of Brazil, and it’s known as the “city of the sun”, famous for its sun-soaked beaches and its laid-back lifestyle. The weather is great all year round, thus perfect for an all-day beach party or a relaxing vacation far from the hustle and bustle of big cities such as São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro. It is one of the top tourist destinations in the country.
Natal is also one of the safest cities in Brazil. Besides, it has been recognized as the second safest capital in Brazil. This is largely attributed to it being a tourist hub. Being that it relies heavily on tourism for its economy, the city takes measures to ensure that tourists feel safe and secure when visiting.
The city has few murders and robberies compared to other Brazilian cities. It also has an incredibly low crime rate. Besides, the crime rate in Natal has gone down by 5% during the past year alone.
The government continues to step up efforts to make sure that its citizens and tourists remain safe in this city.
9. Recife
| Population: | 4,220,000 |
| Safety Index: | 23.61 |
| Average Annual Household Income: | $69,850 |
| Crime Index: | 93.42 |
Recife is the capital of Pernambuco, the state that was once known as the country’s Wild West due to an epidemic of violent drug-related crime.
But, recently, crime has been brought under control with major police operations. The city has a low crime rate and an effective law enforcement system. It makes it one of the most peaceful and secure places in Brazil.
This city has a well-developed tourism industry. It is now popular with tourists visiting its golden beaches and historical centers.
Recife’s crime rate has dropped in recent years. This is attributed to a community policing program. Through this program, officers are assigned to specific neighborhoods. They’re expected to know the residents on a personal level.
Besides this policing program, Recife has also adopted a “zero-tolerance” policy for crime. Offenders are quickly punished for crimes committed—even infractions.
10. Campo Grande
| Population: | 917,000 |
| Safety Index: | 46.02 |
| Average Annual Household Income: | $65,900 |
| Crime Index: | 53.98 |
Campo Grande is one of the most advanced and safest cities in Brazil. The city is located on the border of Brazil, Bolivia, and Paraguay. The crime rate in Campo Grande is low. You will feel safe when roaming around this city, even at night.
The low crime rate in Campo Grande can be attributed to the city’s economic prosperity. Usually, wealthier countries have lower crime rates. Also, wealthy countries are more likely to invest in programs designed to reduce crime and keep citizens safe. The Campo Grande police department works hard to prevent crimes in the city.
Besides low crime rates, Campo Grande also has low violent crime rates. Violent crimes include murder and rape. These two types of crimes cause fear among residents living in a city or country. Luckily for residents of Campo Grande, violent crimes rarely occur!
What’s more, the crime rate has decreased significantly over the past few years. There are many reasons why this has happened. For example, they have implemented a project called “Safe City,” which consists of installing cameras around the city. It has deterred criminals and discouraged them from committing crimes because they know they will be caught on camera right away.
How to Stay Safe in Brazil
Brazil is a large country with several big cities that can be a little rough around the edges. But, like any major city you visit, there are a few things you can do to stay safe and avoid any potential problems.
First, don’t wander into the favelas (slums) or other dangerous neighborhoods. Don’t venture out alone at night, especially if you’re carrying valuable items such as laptops or cameras.
When taking taxis, use radio taxis from reputable companies. You can also book taxis directly from your hotel or restaurant. Don’t hail taxis on the street. It’s because of taxi scams that are common in Brazil. When you arrive at a major airport in Brazil, you’ll see a taxi stand where you can book a cab.
Do not accept a ride from anyone who approaches you at the airport or anywhere else. If you need a cab outside of your hotel or restaurant, you can also use an app instead of hailing one on the street.
Also, be aware of your surroundings. Pickpockets can be skilled. So, be alert and don’t leave valuables lying around. Make photocopies of crucial documents such as your passport, travel insurance policy, and credit cards.
This way, you’ll have something to refer to in case your original documents are lost or stolen. Keep valuables locked away in the hotel when not using them.
Additionally, don’t flash cash or jewelry. Leave expensive jewelry at home or wear moderately priced accessories instead. Do not wear flashy clothing or expensive-looking watches when walking down streets at night. It’ll make you stand out as a target for robbery.
Also, buy tickets online for sightseeing tours and concerts. You can avoid the hassle of getting ripped off by vendors selling fake tickets on the street.
Lastly, drinking is a huge part of Brazilian culture, but drink wisely. Avoid drinking in a way that makes you vulnerable or drunk and rowdy. It can make you a target for pickpockets or even worse.
Conclusion
The Brazilian government has been doing a lot to make the country safer. They have been improving safety in major cities and reducing crime throughout the country.
So, if you’re thinking of vacationing in Brazil, there’s no need to worry! There are plenty of safe cities in this beautiful country. Go ahead and plan your getaway to one of these cities, especially if you want to enjoy a little sand and sun on your visit.
At the end of the day, a city should not only be safe but should make you feel safe. As such, we trust that this list has helped make your choice on the safest cities you want to live in during your visit to Brazil.
Featured Image Credit: guertzen, Pixabay
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