Belo Horizonte is generally considered a safe city to visit, with low to moderate crime rates compared to other major cities in Brazil.
Safety conditions change. Always check your government's current travel advisory for Belo Horizonte before traveling.
Quick Facts
Overall Safety Assessment
Belo Horizonte, the capital of Minas Gerais, is a city with a rich cultural heritage and a strong sense of community, which contributes to its relatively safe environment. As with any major city, there are areas that are considered safer than others, and visitors should take normal precautions to ensure their safety, such as avoiding walking alone in dimly lit or deserted areas at night and keeping an eye on their belongings in crowded public spaces. The city has a dedicated tourist police force, which provides assistance and support to visitors, and the emergency number 190 can be dialed in case of any urgent situation.
Overall, Belo Horizonte is a great destination for travelers, with a wide range of cultural and entertainment options, from museums and historical landmarks to restaurants, bars, and nightlife. The city's safety record is generally good, with low rates of violent crime, but as with any city, there are areas that are best avoided, and visitors should be aware of their surroundings and take necessary precautions to stay safe. By being informed and taking normal precautions, visitors can have a safe and enjoyable experience in Belo Horizonte.
Safety By Area
| Area/Region | Safety Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Savassi | High | Upscale neighborhood with good lighting and security |
| Lourdes | High | Safe and popular area with many restaurants and shops |
| Centro | Moderate | Busy area with a mix of commercial and residential areas, some petty crime |
| Nova Lima | Low | Suburb with higher crime rates, best avoided at night |
| Pampulha | Moderate | Popular area with a lake and park, some petty crime and scams |
| Barro Preto | Moderate | Mixed area with some commercial and residential areas, some crime |
| Santa Efigenia | Low | Area with higher crime rates, best avoided |
| Ouro Preto | High | Historic town just outside Belo Horizonte, very safe and popular with tourists |
Common Risks & Scams
- Pickpocketing and purse snatching in crowded areas and public transportation
- Scams targeting tourists, such as fake police officers or street vendors
- Petty theft and burglary in hotels and hostels
- Traffic accidents and reckless driving
- Protests and demonstrations, which can turn violent
- Credit card skimming and ATM scams
- Overcharging by taxi drivers or street vendors
Health & Medical
- Vaccinations: Yellow fever vaccination is recommended for travel to certain areas of Brazil, but not typically required for Belo Horizonte
- Water Safety: Tap water is not considered safe to drink, and visitors should stick to bottled or filtered water
- Medical Facilities: Good quality medical facilities are available in Belo Horizonte, but medical insurance is recommended
- Pharmacy Access: Pharmacies are widely available and well-stocked, but some medications may require a prescription
Practical Safety Tips
- Be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas
- Use reputable taxi services or ride-sharing apps, and always check the driver's ID before getting in
- Avoid walking alone in dimly lit or deserted areas at night
- Keep your hotel room door locked and use the hotel safe for valuables
- Be cautious when using ATMs or exchanging money, and avoid carrying large amounts of cash
- Learn some basic Portuguese phrases, such as "help" (socorro) and "where is..." (onde fica...)
- Stay informed about local conditions and any potential safety concerns through your government's travel advisory website
For Solo & Women Travelers
- Be prepared for some attention and catcalls from men, especially at night, and consider dressing modestly
- Avoid walking alone in isolated areas, especially at night, and consider using a reputable taxi service
- Stay in well-lit and populated areas, and avoid engaging with aggressive or pushy street vendors
- Consider staying in a hotel or hostel with good security and a 24-hour front desk, and keep your room number and hotel address handy in case of an emergency