Is Rio de Janeiro Safe?
The reality about safety in Rio is not what you imagine.
Rio is often in the spotlight for negative and film-like violent situations. From a police helicopter downed by gangsters to celebrities kidnapped, the dangers from Rio are as famous as the natural beauty of its panoramic landscapes.
Personal advice: Always read and watch the news with a pinch of salt. The truth is that Rio de Janeiro is one of the world’s most beautiful cities, and with a little care and attention, it can be one of the most beautiful trips of your life!
Is Rio Really That Dangerous?
Depending on what you are comparing with. If your basis of comparison the Europan continent, yes, Rio is dangerous. But if you consider cities American cities like Baltimore, Detroit, or New Orleans, Rio de Janeiro is far safer.
In 2020, Rio had a homicide rate (20.4 per 100 000 inhabitants) even lower than Chicago, the 3rd largest city in the United States (24.3 murders per 100 000 residents).
And the finest news: the violence is decreasing quickly in Rio (almost as quickly as in São Paulo, a case that I explore in detail in this article). In the last section of this article, I will prove that to you with solid numbers.