Over the past two years, we have been exploring new places, and walking unknown paths. Having visited almost 20 countries, we have had the most unique experiences in Brazil. To be honest, this country has taken such a place in our hearts that it is now number one among our most favorite destinations. If you don't put it at the top, then it must be among the best in the group!
But you know what's funny? This trip almost didn't happen!
We did a lot of research before we set off on our trip, as usual. But the more information we came across, the more we realized that Brazil was probably not a good place to go.
Most of the articles we read on the internet or in travel blogs warned us about the safety and violence in Brazil. Some even said outright, "Don't go to Brazil!"
To be honest, there weren't many positive experiences to be found. So, at one point, it felt like we should have chosen a different destination. But luckily, we finally made the bold decision to go to Brazil no matter what! And that decision turned out to be one of the best decisions of our lives.
Brazil is not just a country, it's a huge colorful canvas! Vibrant cities, beautiful nature, amazing beaches, and countless loving people—all of this country has captured our hearts.
We want to share with you all what we learned and experienced during this travel. So in this article, we will tell you—
✅ What was the real experience with safety in Brazil
✅ How to travel to Brazil easier, more enjoyable and safer
✅ And why Brazil is so amazing that you will fall in love once you visit?
So let's open the doors to this exciting trip to Brazil! 😊
Is Brazil Safe to Visit?
Our biggest concern about Brazil was safety. The more we researched, the more we saw blogs and travel guides giving dire warnings about crime. Many said—"Be careful! There are thefts, muggings, and even violence in Brazil!"
In particular, we were concerned about using cameras or phones. We always love taking pictures and capturing moments of new places. So we wondered, "Would it be risky to take out your phone in Brazil?"
Real life experience: Reality is better than fear
After visiting Brazil and talking to locals, I realized that many things are exaggerated.
Yes, petty thefts do happen. But these usually happen due to the carelessness of tourists. Suppose you went to the beach to swim and left your phone or bag on a towel—anyone can take it. Or, if you hold your mobile phone right next to a moving road, there is a chance that it will be snatched.
But this doesn’t just happen in Brazil. New York, Milan, and London—such incidents can be seen in all major cities. The main thing is to be aware.
What did we do?
✅ We always kept our valuables close by
✅ We were more careful in crowded or secluded places
✅ We avoided less familiar or dangerous areas at night
We didn’t have any problems by following these simple precautions!
Nightlife: Extra caution required
However, there is one place where you need to be extra careful—Rio de Janeiro's nightlife.
Some clubs are known for drugging and muggings. So if you want to enjoy Rio's nightlife, it's a good idea to follow some rules—
✅ Check your drinks – Avoid strangers who offer you something
✅ Don't wander around alone – Stay in a group, it's better not to go out alone
✅ Be aware of your surroundings – It's important to be careful in new environments
If you are careful and follow basic safety rules, you are unlikely to get into any trouble in Brazil. So don't be afraid, be prepared, and enjoy the beauty of Brazil without fear!
Essential Tips for Traveling Brazil
To make your trip to Brazil enjoyable and safe, it's important to keep a few things in mind. Here are some important tips that will make your trip easier and more enjoyable.
Learn Basic Portuguese – It’s a Big Advantage!
The main language in Brazil is Portuguese, and unfortunately, most people here don’t speak English. Only 5% of people are fluent in English, so relying solely on English can get you into trouble in many places.
The easy solution? Learn a few basic Portuguese words and phrases before you travel!
How to learn?
You can use the Duolingo or Google Translate apps
Watch easy Portuguese learning videos on YouTube
Talk to locals on language learning apps like HelloTalk or Tandem
Avoid Favelas – Safety Matters
Favelas are located near major cities in Brazil. Many people want to visit them out of curiosity because these areas offer a different experience of culture and lifestyle. However, there is no need to take unnecessary risks!
Why avoid them?
These areas are not safe for uninformed tourists
Organized crime and gang activity are prevalent in many favelas
Even with a local guide, complete safety is not guaranteed
However, some popular favela tours are more secure. If you want to explore, take a guided tour through a trusted tour company. But it would be a mistake to go on an adventure on your own.
Use Uber – Safe and Convenient
In Brazil, you often have to haggle with local taxi drivers, and hailing a taxi on the street can be risky from a safety perspective. Especially, if you are going somewhere at night, choose Uber.
A better option? Uber!
Easily book a ride on the app
Pay online instead of cash
Safe to travel at night
Use Rappi for food delivery – great convenience!
If you are staying in a hotel or Airbnb and don’t want to go out, ordering food is very useful. In Brazil, there is a popular food delivery app called Rappi, which is similar to Uber Eats.
Why use Rappi?
Delivers food, groceries, and medicines
Fast delivery is available in most major cities
You can order food from restaurants at low prices
If you don’t want to go to a new city and have to go through the hassle of finding a restaurant, download Rappi.
Brazil is truly nice, but there are some safety tips to keep in mind. If you learn a few Portuguese words, use safe vehicles, and avoid carelessness, your experience in Brazil will be a great destination for you!
10 Reasons to Fall in Love with Brazil
We have visited many countries, but Brazil! Ah, Brazil has occupied a special place in our hearts. Every day spent there is like a new colorful story. It is really difficult not to love this country. If you ever travel to Brazil, then this country will fascinate you.
Let us tell you 10 reasons why we love it—
1. People
The people of Brazil! They are so lively, friendly, and responsive that we felt like we had known them for a long time.
Wherever we went, they welcomed us with smiles, told us stories, and recommended places. Sometimes they even showed us the way! You will definitely feel this love when you go to Brazil.
2. Love for their country
We have never seen a country where people are so proud of their country! Brazilians are proud of their culture, their cities, and their nature, and they will make you feel it too. They will tell you stories of places, and invite you to visit new places—and you will not want to take their word for it!
3. Diverse nature
If you go from one city to another, you will realize how diverse Brazil really is. The vast green Amazon, clear blue waters, high mountains, roaring waterfalls—it seems as if nature has arranged all the beauty in this country with its own hands!
4. Rich History
Wherever we went, history seemed to touch us. Portuguese architecture, African cultural influences, and local indigenous traditions—all of which have combined to create a unique heritage. You will feel this depth of history in the alleys of every city.
5. Brazilian Food!
Our eyes light up when we think of food! Brazilian food has won our hearts. Black bean and pork feijoada, fresh acai bowl, delicious churrasco barbecue—everything is so amazing that we try something new every day.
6. Caipirinhas—Refreshment at Every Moment!
Do you know what the most popular cocktail in Brazil is? Caipirinhas! We loved it the first time we tried it. Made with lime, sugar, and cachaca drink, this drink is so delicious that we enjoy it at least once a day. And the fun part—it’s not just served in bars, it’s also served on the beach!
7. Beach Paradise
We had heard a lot about the beaches in Brazil, but when we saw them with our own eyes, we were completely captivated! From the popular beaches like Copacabana to the lesser-known paradises like Florianopolis—each beach is a new experience. If you love the sea, Brazil’s beaches are a paradise waiting for you!
8. Music
Brazil is incomplete without music. Samba, bossa nova, and Brazilian funk captivated our minds at every moment of our trip. People were dancing and singing in the streets, bars, and even alleys—it was like a country of festivals!
9. Colorful Street Art
We have traveled to many countries, but we have never seen colorful street art like Brazil anywhere. The streets of São Paulo and Salvador are like a huge canvas, where every wall speaks. If you love art, Brazil will be a place more beautiful than you can imagine.
10. Budget-friendly travel
This was the most surprising thing for us! Usually, such beautiful countries are quite expensive. But Brazil is relatively affordable! Accommodation and food here are much cheaper than in Europe or America, especially if you plan a little smartly.
Brazil has given us a unique feeling of love. If you visit once, you will definitely fall in love with this country!
3 Cities in Brazil we have visited
Before going to Brazil, we had one question in mind—which cities are a must-see? Brazil is so large, and so diverse, that each city offers a different experience. So, from our experience, if you go to Brazil, then these three cities are a must-see!
Rio de Janeiro—The City of Dreams
Rio is not just a city, it is a feeling! A wonderful mix of mountains, sea, music, and culture. Things you absolutely cannot miss if you visit here—
Go to Ipanema Beach — Sun, soft sand and blue sea waves! Spending time on this beach in Rio is a unique experience.
Take the Sugarloaf Mountain Cable Car—As we rode the cable car, the whole of Rio opened up before our eyes. Not to mention when we went at sunset!
See Christ the Redeemer—Brazil's most iconic monument! The feeling of standing here and embracing the entire city is truly different.
Eat at Café Colombo—This more than a century-old café is famous not only for its food, but also for its experience. A cup of coffee in a historic setting—like a dream!
São Paulo—The Heart of Culture and Creativity
São Paulo is Brazil’s largest city, and it’s like a cosmopolitan fair! Here’s what you can do—
Visit the Sunday Street Market on Avenida Paulista—a great place to hang out with hundreds of shops, artists, and street performers.
Visit the MASP (São Paulo Museum of Art)—a world-class art collection! We saw everything from Degas and Van Gogh to modern Brazilian artists.
Walk through Ibirapuera Park—if you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, this park is a great way to spend some time amidst the quiet greenery.
Experience a samba night at Bar Samba—the moment we got into the rhythm of samba, it felt like Brazil was in our blood! If you want to experience real Brazilian nightlife, this is a must.
Salvador—City of Tradition and Color
Salvador surprised us! History, music, food—everything has a kind of charming warmth.
Walk through Pelourinho—this historic center is like an open-air museum. Walking between each colorful building, we felt like we had stepped back in time!
Ride the Lacerda Elevator—it’s not just an elevator, it’s a kind of connection between the upper and lower parts of the city, and the view. Simply amazing!
Enjoy the sunset near the lighthouse at Praia do Farol da Barra—this moment is etched in our hearts. Standing by the sea and watching the colorful sunset—it’s truly magical!
Try Moqueca—Do you love seafood? Then don't leave Salvador without trying Moqueca! This delicious seafood stew cooked in coconut milk impressed us so much that we even learned the recipe!
Final Thoughts: Is Brazil Worth a Trip?
Absolutely!
Brazil will always be one of the most special places we travel to. While the media has portrayed some of the challenges here, our experience was the opposite—overwhelmingly positive.
The hospitality of the people, the diversity of culture, the delicious food, and the natural beauty here are truly a unique experience. If this destination isn’t on your travel bucket list, you should add it.
We hope this guide inspires you to travel to Brazil with an open mind and an adventurous spirit. Trust us, you won’t regret it!
