Rio de Janeiro is a city rich in mountains, ocean and beach but it does have a reputation of being unsafe. Take precautions to avoid these common dangers and ensure your trip stays trouble-free.
Going to the beach is a must in Rio, the most popular one is Ipanema Beach, the same name as the popular sixties song. Have fun in the sun but stay alert:
• Don’t bring any electronics like cameras, phones or a music players. Busy beaches are prime targets for expert pick pockets.
• If you decide to take valuables, be sure to go with a group. One person can watch the items, while the rest go swimming.
• If you plan on going alone, don’t leave your belongings unattended and if a local offers to watch them, be suspicious.
Stay alert on the beaches of Rio. Photo by hellokitae
2) Shot in a Favela
Many tourists are curious about Rio’s shanty towns, called favelas. A popular event that many hostels organize is favela funk parties, where travelers board a bus and party in a favela.
Favelas are microcosms of communities, some of the largest ones boast markets and even banks. However, exploring a favela does come with risks. Take these precautions to stay safe:
• Never wander into a favela alone, especially at night.
• Take an organized tour. It’s a safer and enlightening way to learn about Rio’s society beyond the beaches.
• If you prefer to go it alone, hire a car and an experienced guide, stick to daylight hours and keep windows and doors locked.
Explore the favelas of Rio but remember they can be dangerous places, especially at night. Photo by julioaguiar
3) Arrested for Drugs Trafficking
Many travelers to Brazil partake in recreational drug use. Rio’s reputation to obtain drugs easily is not a myth. Practice caution:
• Drug trafficking is widespread in Rio, and if you are caught with drugs in your possession, prison terms are lengthy and served in a Brazilian prison.
• Common sense applies, don’t buy drugs in a country where drug legislation is tough.
• If you do buy, make sure it’s only very small amounts.
4) Mugged at Knifepoint
It’s unpleasant thinking about being mugged whilst on vacation but if this should happen do the following:
• Don’t argue or talk back to the perpetrator.
• Hand over everything that they ask for. Everything is replaceable, but you aren’t.
• Try to remain calm and lucid. Remember details so you can report them to the police later.
• Carry small amounts of money, so you don’t lose everything you’ve brought for the trip.
• If you’re walking in an area that makes you uncomfortable, leave immediately.
Stay on your guard at all times, even in affluent areas of the city. Photo by bbriceno
5) Pick Pocketed at Carnival
Carnival is celebrated in Rio in grand fashion, parades and costumes are put on by competing samba schools.
It’s a celebration worth being part of, yet it’s also important to be smart when enjoying the festivities:
• Conceal cameras or phones, deep in a bag that’s across your shoulders.
• Never store ID or money in your pockets.
• Avoid overcrowded situations.
• When shooting with your video or still camera, be aware of your surroundings. It’s not uncommon to have someone grab and run.
Make the most of Rio Carnival but don’t get jostled out of your belongings. Photo by skruk.
6) Credit Card Cloning
Card cloning is common in many countries but it’s rife in Rio. here are some tips for using credit cards in Rio.
• Inform your bank you are going on vacation, they can monitor your account for any suspect withdrawals.
• Always protect your PIN.
• Try to use major banks when taking out money.
Don’t draw attention to yourself with expensive clothes as this could make you an obvious target. Photo by limpciano.
Also…
Don’t Be Flashy
A common safety tip, but even more important in Rio:
• Never wear flashy jewelry, expensive or not. If you need to wear a watch, be sure it’s something you can afford to lose.
• Don’t reveal wads of cash in your wallet. Be sure to only pull out small amounts when paying at a store or restaurant.
• Don’t talk on your expensive cell phone for too long. Be discreet.
Don’t Overdress
It can be tempting to dress up in Rio. After all, it’s a city full of beautiful people. I recommend you not to go over the top:
• Don’t wear designer clothes, that imply you’re a wealthy tourist as this can make you a target for thieves.
• Buy clothes from the local markets. A pair of flip-flops, shorts and bathing suit is standard clothing in Rio.
• Try to blend in, instead of standing out. You’ll benefit from more contact with locals and feel less alien to your surroundings.
Am I exaggerating the dangers of Rio? Did you feel safe there? Post up your comments below.
If you liked this, you might also like: Common Travel Scams Exposed: Don’t Fall Victim.
Join thousands of readers and get great travel advice.
Subscribe to the Tripbase Blog
via RSS
or
via e-mail.
Do you want to fly for free?
