Brasilia, the capital city of Brazil, is generally considered a safe destination for tourists, with low to moderate crime rates compared to other major cities in the country.
Safety conditions change. Always check your government's current travel advisory for Brasilia before traveling.
Quick Facts
Overall Safety Assessment
Brasilia is a planned city, designed to be a hub of government and administration, and as such, it has a relatively low crime rate compared to other major cities in Brazil. The city is known for its modern architecture, wide avenues, and well-organized urban planning, which contributes to its safety. However, as with any major city, there are areas that are considered safer than others, and tourists should be aware of their surroundings, especially at night. The city has a significant police presence, and the tourist police are available to assist visitors in case of an emergency.
The main concerns for tourists in Brasilia are petty crimes such as pickpocketing, bag snatching, and scams. These crimes are often opportunistic and can be prevented by taking basic precautions such as being mindful of one's belongings, avoiding carrying large amounts of cash, and being cautious when dealing with strangers. Additionally, the city has a low risk of violent crime, but it is still important for tourists to be aware of their surroundings, especially at night, and to avoid walking alone in dimly lit or deserted areas.
Safety By Area
| Area/Region | Safety Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| North Hotel Sector | High | This area is known for its high-end hotels and is considered very safe |
| South Hotel Sector | High | This area is also known for its high-end hotels and is considered very safe |
| Eixo Monumental | Moderate | This area is a major tourist destination, but it can get crowded and petty crimes can occur |
| Asa Norte | Moderate | This area is a residential neighborhood that is considered safe, but it can get deserted at night |
| Asa Sul | Low | This area is a residential neighborhood that is considered less safe, with higher crime rates |
| Ceilandia | Low | This area is a residential neighborhood that is considered less safe, with higher crime rates |
| Central Bus Station | Moderate | This area can get crowded and petty crimes can occur, but it is generally considered safe |
| Lake Paranoa | High | This area is a popular tourist destination and is considered very safe |
Common Risks & Scams
- Pickpocketing and bag snatching are common in crowded areas and tourist hotspots
- Scams involving ATMs and credit card machines are common, so it's essential to be cautious when using them
- Overcharging by taxi drivers is a common scam, so it's essential to use licensed taxis and to agree on the fare before starting the journey
- Petty theft is common in areas with high foot traffic, such as markets and bus stations
- Robberies can occur in areas with low foot traffic, such as deserted streets and alleys
- Credit card skimming is a common scam, so it's essential to be cautious when using credit cards
- Tourists should be cautious of strangers approaching them and offering to help or provide services
Health & Medical
- Vaccinations: The Brazilian government recommends that tourists get vaccinated against yellow fever, hepatitis A, and typhoid before traveling to Brasilia
- Water Safety: Tap water is not safe to drink, and tourists should stick to bottled or filtered water
- Medical Facilities: Brasilia has high-quality medical facilities, including hospitals and clinics, but medical care can be expensive, and tourists should have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies
- Pharmacy Access: Pharmacies are widely available, and tourists can easily access prescription medications and over-the-counter medications
Practical Safety Tips
- Always carry a copy of your passport and leave the original in a safe place
- Be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots
- Avoid carrying large amounts of cash and use credit cards or traveler's checks instead
- Be cautious when using ATMs and credit card machines
- Avoid walking alone in dimly lit or deserted areas, especially at night
- Use licensed taxis and agree on the fare before starting the journey
- Keep your hotel room door locked and use the hotel safe to store valuables
For Solo & Women Travelers
- Solo and women travelers should be cautious when walking alone at night and should avoid deserted areas
- They should also be mindful of their belongings and avoid carrying large amounts of cash
- It's essential to research the area before traveling and to stay informed about local conditions
- Solo and women travelers should also be cautious when dealing with strangers and should avoid accepting rides or services from unknown individuals