As much we love Rio de Janeiro, let's face it: it doesn't have the best reputation in the world when it comes to safety. But before you freak out and imagine the whole city feels like a scene from City of God, remember that the majority of tourists travelling to the Marvelous City have absolutely no problems, nevertheless, here are some tips to stay safe in Rio. Crime does exist however, and it helps no one to ignore it. Follow this basic safety advice to learn how to stay safe in Rio. [caption id="attachment_2552" align="aligncenter" width="610"]Police vehicle patrolling the beach | How to avoid getting robbed in Rio There are many things you can do to stay safe when travelling to Rio de Janeiro / Source[/caption]

Don't leave your stuff unattended.

This is the most common sense rule for travelling anywhere in the world. Keep your things where you can see them. If you're sitting at a restaurant, don't leave your bag under your chair. Hook a strap around your legs, or keep it on your lap. If you're on the beach, don't leave your valuables on your towel or canga unattended when you go for a swim. Read more tips for how to stay safe on the beach.

Carry only what you need

When you go out for the day, carry only enough money for the day with you, leaving your cash, credit cards, passport and other valuables in your hotel or hostel safe. Keep a copy of your passport with you. As an extra precaution, keep you wallet in your front pocket, use a money belt, or hide your cash somewhere on your person.

Don't flash your wealth

Leave your fancy jewellery and watches at home. Don't attract unneccesary attention to your valuable possessions. If you use an expensive camera, keep it out of sight until you need to use it, and be aware of your surroundings when you do. Simple precautions like keeping your camera strap around your neck or wrist can also deter opportunistic thieves.

Avoid ATMs at night

It's a good idea to use ATMs only in daylight and in a good neighbourhood. There have also been reports of scams at the ATMs in Rio's airports, so we advise you not to use the ATM there either.

Walk with confidence

Try not to look like a lost tourist. Don't pull out your map in the middle of the street. Rather go into a restaurant or store to figure out where you're going and then walk with confidence in the street. If you're in an area where you don't feel comfortable, walk with purpose and don't draw attention to yourself.

Watch out for street kids

Don't underestimate the street kids. They are responsible for most opportunistic muggings of tourists.

Stick to safe neighbourhoods

Avoid the centro (downtown Rio) at night and on the weekends, when it becomes deserted. Lapa is a firm favourite at night for partiers, but it also attracts plenty of pickpockets. Despite this, it is ironically safer at night when there are more crowds. The Zona Sul is touristy and generally safer. Be aware that Copacabana is not without problems at night. Stick to well-lit areas, and don't go onto the beach when it is dark. Ipanema and Leblon are more upscale and generally considered safer.

Use public transport wisely

The subway system is considered safe, both during the day and at night. The buses are fine to use during the day, but should be avoided at night. It is best to use a taxi at night. If you hail a cab, make sure you hail a registered one that displays the company's details. Alternatively, use an app like Easy Taxi to call a cab, or phone a cab company.

Don't go into a favela by yourself

Even though many of Rio's favelas have been pacified, they are still not safe areas. Only go to a favela with a local resident or with a favela tour. While it is important to be on your guard to avoid being robbed in Rio, don't be paranoid either. Just apply a bit of common sense and you'll have a great vacation in Brazil.

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