Brazil : Safety by City
Brazil, the largest country in South America, offers a cultural and ecological treasure trove of activities.
Once home to indigenous civilizations, it became a Portuguese colony in the 1500s and gained independence in 1822.
Today, Brazil is known for its vibrant cities, diverse ecosystems, and rich heritage.
Rio de Janeiro, with its iconic Christ the Redeemer statue and stunning beaches like Copacabana, embodies Brazil’s lively spirit.
São Paulo, the country’s financial hub, buzzes with the arts, a broad range of culinary options, and nightlife, while Brasília stands out with its striking modernist architecture.
A visit to Brazil can include a trip to the Amazon Rainforest—one of the most biodiverse places on Earth—along with the Pantanal wetlands and the breathtaking Iguazu Falls.
Brazil’s global impact is undeniable.
From its influence in music and dance, such as samba and bossa nova, to its dominance in soccer, which produced legends like Pelé and Neymar, the country’s hosting of major events like the World Cup (1950, 2014) and the Olympics (2016) further cemented its place on the world stage.
For travelers, Brazil’s irresistible appeal beckons more than six million visitors annually.
If you’re thinking about adding to that number, let’s talk about safety and security.
Warnings & Dangers in Brazil
OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM
Brazil is generally safe for tourists, but vigilance is key. I'm going to give this a medium risk due to some escalated areas of concern. We'll talk about specific high-risk regions and overall safety later in this article. Urban areas have higher crime rates, while tourist-heavy spots can attract petty thieves.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM
This is a medium risk. Public transport, especially buses, can be risky due to pickpockets and violent crime. Licensed taxis and rideshare apps like Uber are safer options. Avoid hailing taxis off the street in big cities.
PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM
Risk levels range from medium to high, especially on the higher end are cities like Rio and São Paulo. Busy tourist areas, markets, and public transit are hotspots for pickpocketing.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM
This risk really depends on the region and season, but treat it as a medium risk to stay informed and prepared for any potential problem. Brazil faces occasional flooding, landslides, and droughts, especially during the rainy season. Coastal areas may experience tropical storms.
MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM
This is another medium risk, especially if you venture outside the tourist areas or onto public transportation buses. Even enjoying the nightlife here can lead to drug-induced robberies and assaults.
TERRORISM RISK: LOW
Terrorism risks grow exponentially the closer you get to the borders of Venezuela, Columbia, Peru, and Bolivia. Drug cartels, terrorist groups, and other types of aggressive criminal gangs are far too common in South America.
SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM
Scams involving credit cards, illegal money exchange, and confidence fraud range from frustrating to downright dangerous. As noted above, some criminals will slip drugs into the drinks of tourists in order to steal from them or hold them hostage. Treat this as a medium risk, and don't trust anybody you don't know.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: MEDIUM
Women travelers may face unwanted attention, particularly in nightclubs, bars, and restaurants after dark. Dressing modestly and using reputable transport options can help reduce risk. Don't walk on the beach alone at night, and keep your mobile phone out of sight. Travel in groups, ideally with mixed-gender members. Pregnant women should review the latest warning about the Oropouche outbreak in Espírito Santo.
TAP WATER RISK: LOW
Tap water quality varies by region and is generally not recommended for drinking. Stick to bottled or filtered water to avoid stomach issues like the all-too-common traveler's diarrhea. Even locals often avoid tap water.
Safest Places to Visit in Brazil
The official tourism website for Brazil is visitbrasil.com.
One of the things I like about this website is the “About Brazil” section, which offers practical and helpful information for visitors.
Of course, Carnival is one of Brazil’s biggest celebrations and the largest of its kind on Earth.
The annual festival starts the Friday before Ash Wednesday and ends on Fat Tuesday.
It is recommended to purchase tickets for parades or other events at riocarnaval.org well in advance.
Avoid street vendors, even if they promise discounted prices.
Many people choose to do tours of Sambadrome, where the parades are held for Carnival, throughout the year.
You can also look for tickets to other large-scale events year-round.
Also in Rio, Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf Mountain offer incredible views of the city.
You can unwind on Copacabana Beach or plan a trip for the massive New Year’s Eve celebration held annually.
Stroll through the artsy Santa Teresa neighborhood, where history and local culture blend beautifully.
Learn more about this colorful and unique city at visitrio.com.br.
Búzios, just a few hours from Rio, is a charming beach town with a relaxed but upscale feel.
Think gorgeous beaches, stylish boutiques, and great restaurants—perfect for a stress-free escape.
Curitiba is one of Brazil’s safest cities, known for its green spaces and impressive urban planning.
It’s a great place to take it easy, enjoy the parks, and check out the unique botanical garden.
Brasília, the capital, is a fascinating city with futuristic architecture designed by Oscar Niemeyer.
It’s safe, easy to get around, and full of cool landmarks, such as the National Congress and the Cathedral of Brasília.
However, if you aren’t into architecture, you might want to rethink visiting Brasilia.
The drive to Rio is about 15 hours.
At the same time, if you make it this far, head to Chapada dos Veadeiros, the land of waterfalls.
Chapada Diamantina National Park is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers.
With stunning caves and waterfalls, it’s best to explore with local guides who know the trails and can make sure you have a safe adventure.
Iguazu Falls is a jaw-dropping experience, stretching across the border with Argentina.
The Brazilian side gives you the best panoramic views and the easy-to-navigate walkways make it a hassle-free way to enjoy this natural wonder.
For wildlife lovers, the Pantanal is a dream come true.
It’s the best place to spot jaguars, caimans, and colorful birds, and guided tours let you explore safely while staying in comfortable eco-lodges.
Places to Avoid in Brazil
Aside from the common sense safety steps you should take anywhere in Brazil, a few locations have higher risk warnings from various government agencies.
For example, the U.S. recommends avoiding international border areas, which are listed as Level 4: Do Not Travel.
Brazil also has satellite cities, which is urban areas on the outskirts of the major population centers.
These also have the Level 4: Do Not Travel warning between 6 pm and 6 am due to crime risks.
The specific locations mentioned are:
- Ceilandia
- Santa Maria
- Sao Sebastiao
- Paranoa
The U.S. also mentions informal housing developments known as Favelas.
While crime in these areas doesn’t usually target tourists, there’s little concern for a tourist who might be in the wrong place at the wrong time.
The United Kingdom recommends avoiding travel to the Amazonas State, including places along the Amazon and other rivers.
This is due to drug runners, illegal activity, and cartels that are expanding in the wilderness.
The government advisories from Canada, the US, and the UK detail specific neighborhoods that are worth avoiding in major cities.
Safety Tips for Traveling to Brazil
- Police presence varies by region. Tourist police (Polícia Turística) are available in major cities, but response times can be slow. Always carry a copy of your ID and report any incidents at the nearest police station. You can always dial 192 from your mobile device to get emergency help.
- To stay informed about weather and disasters, download the “Defesa Civil” app or follow local news outlets. Brazil’s national warning system sends SMS alerts, so registering your phone with a local SIM can be helpful.
- Portuguese is the official language, not Spanish. English isn’t widely spoken outside major tourist areas, so learning basic Portuguese phrases or using a translation app can help break down the language barrier.
- Check the vaccination requirements for Brazil, especially if you plan to visit neighboring countries. For example, the Yellow Fever vaccine isn’t required in Brazil, but it might be in other countries if you’ve already spent time in Brazil. That vaccine takes 10 days to be effective.
- If you’re driving around or in a taxi, always keep the window rolled up. Thieves on motorcycles are known to do “drive-by purse or bag snatchings.”
- Never accept food or drink from someone you don’t know. With a growing number of drug-spiked incidents, it’s not worth the risk of drinking something that could lead to you getting robbed or injured. It’s also worth looking up “Express Kidnappings” in Brazil, which is when tourists are taken hostage for less than 48 hours while being robbed and forced to withdraw money.
- I’ve seen several reports of crimes happening to people who appear to be rich or in areas known for wealth. While you don’t want to dress or look like a homeless person, it’s smart to avoid looking too upper class so you don’t stand out as a target.
- The hike to the Christ the Redeemer statue is not always safe, as robberies have been reported by people making the trek. If you are taking the hike, do so with a guided tour and in groups of no less than 10 people in size.
- If you plan to fish, a permit is required for recreational fishing in most areas, including the Amazon. Licenses can be obtained online through the Ministry of the Environment’s website before heading out.
- Visiting the Amazon in Brazil has grown more risky over the past decade due to drugs, crime, and poverty. If you’re a first-timer, Peru might be a better place to have an initial experience with this landscape. Organized tours are far more common and have fewer safety risks.
So... How Safe Is Brazil Really?
Brazil is one of those countries where neither visitors nor countries can agree on the safety risk levels.
For example, the United States puts the country at Level 2, which means “Exercise Increased Caution,” and is the second lowest of a four-tiered ranking system.
Canadian authorities say a “high degree of caution” is needed, and regional guidance indicates a higher risk near the borders.
Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) echoes that risk level.
The United Kingdom’s government says that only essential travel to Brazil should be attempted.
While crime risks are the biggest deterrent that inflates the advisories, there are also health issues to consider.
For example, dengue, malaria, measles, yellow fever, and Zika virus are insect-borne diseases that can happen in Brazil.
Looking at South America as a whole, there are several places (looking at you, Venezuela) where travel to any sector is too dangerous.
Brazil is one of the better places to consider visiting.
Generally, staying in tourist areas will offer the safest experiences.
Consider travel guides in groups for safety in numbers.
If you’re concerned about safety and haven’t visited a country with an elevated risk, this might not be the best time to visit Brazil.
Instead, opt for Argentina.
However, experienced travelers will be able to navigate the risks and rewards for a better experience here.
How Does Brazil Compare?
| Country | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Brazil | 52 |
| Morocco | 54 |
| Australia | 86 |
| Slovakia | 80 |
| Greece | 73 |
| Norway | 85 |
| Mauritius | 80 |
| Kazakhstan | 72 |
| Germany | 85 |
Useful Information
Visas
U.S., Canadian, and Australian travelers need a visa to enter Brazil, but it's an easy online process. Apply for an eVisa before your trip to avoid hassles at the airport. Tourist visas usually allow stays of up to 90 days, with a possible extension if needed.
Currency
Brazil uses the Brazilian real (BRL). Credit cards are widely accepted, but cash is handy for small vendors, taxis, and rural areas. Currency exchange is available at airports and banks, but ATMs often offer better rates. Always check for hidden fees when withdrawing money.
Weather
Brazil’s climate varies by region. Expect tropical heat in the north, mild temperatures in the south, and a rainy season that hits at different times depending on the area. Pack light clothing, but don’t forget a rain jacket if visiting during wetter months.
Airports
Brazil’s major airports, such as São Paulo’s Guarulhos (GRU) and Rio’s Galeão (GIG), are modern and busy. Domestic flights connect most regions, but delays are common. Allow extra time for customs, and be cautious with your belongings in crowded terminals to avoid petty theft.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is a must for Brazil. Medical care can be expensive, and coverage for theft, trip cancellations, and emergencies gives peace of mind. Make sure your policy includes health coverage and adventure activities if you're planning to explore beyond the cities.
Brazil Weather Averages (Temperatures)
Average High/Low Temperature
| Temperature / Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High °C | 31 | 31 | 30 | 29 | 27 | 26 | 26 | 27 | 28 | 29 | 30 | 31 |
| Low °C | 23 | 23 | 22 | 21 | 19 | 17 | 16 | 17 | 18 | 20 | 21 | 22 |
| High °F | 88 | 88 | 86 | 84 | 81 | 79 | 79 | 81 | 82 | 84 | 86 | 88 |
| Low °F | 73 | 73 | 72 | 70 | 66 | 63 | 61 | 63 | 64 | 68 | 70 | 72 |
Brazil - Safety by City
| City | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Belo Horizonte | 48 |
| Brasilia | 62 |
| Campinas | 57 |
| Curitiba | 51 |
| Florianopolis | 68 |
| Fortaleza | 37 |
| Porto Alegre | 21 |
| Recife | 48 |
| Rio de Janeiro | 43 |
| Sao Paulo | 45 |
Big fall from grace
I just want to say that the only reason terrorism is low on this rating is because it is out of their reach. Brazil is one of those places that are beautiful to visit for historical reasons but it just is not safe. It gets worse each year too. There is crime in all the streets and if you travel alone, you will end up having to look over your shoulder the entire time. Hardly enjoyable.
I tend to disagree with you. Brazil isn´t safe in some places like all countries. Go to favelas for exemple isn´t a good idea in any place of the world but when you go to christ of redeemer for exemple is all safe. São Paulo is way saffer than Rio but in my opinion Rio is the best city to visiti in the whole Latin America.
Very dirty cities, racist people, violent and extreme poverty overall
Rafal from Brazil “tend” to disagree about an honest opinion about his country… who would have thought?
Rafael from Brazil lives in Brazil. I can assure you he knows better than you about the country! 😉
As you point out Rafael is a local and therefore less likely to be targeted than a tourist.😉
Rafael, thank you I’m traveling to Brazil for the first time in April. I will stay at cocoabana beach for a few days then travel around the country. any recommendations on traveling to other cities
I’m Brazilian and I say that tourism in Brazil is very dangerous! You can’t be too careful, you can’t relax security at any time.
Use common sense and stay safe
Moved to Brazil about a year ago, have travelled along coast and in interior. Mostly feel safe here, but I always take the precautions normal for any big city – avoid display, don’t wear flashy jewellery or walk along the street carrying your new phone visibly, don’t go to dodgy areas at the wrong time of day. The landscape is beautiful, there are amazing and well maintained national parks with waterfalls, panoramas and terrific hiking. Brazilians are mostly friendly and courteous.
How did you move there and where did you move I’m looking to move there?
I won't be going there!
My family moved from Brazil to Canada when I was a baby. I hardly remember the place. I wanted to visit and my family wouldn’t stand for it. They said they left for a reason and it is way worse now than when they left. Needless to say, I will take their word for it and go elsewhere.
So you’ve never been to Brazil and yet you have an opinion, you know what opinions are like?
Is bad too much
It was safe before now is medium safe is not good at all
Regret going
Your family is completeley right, going is a waste of time and extemely dangerous.
Be smart when traveling
Why are you taking your time here to comment poorly about the country on every post? What happened to you there? I’m curious. Brazil is huge, a continental country. There are good things and bad. If you are from a first world country where anyone can freely walk at the streets at night with no fears whatsoever, don’t go there. But if you know how a big city works, that are places and behaviors you should avoid, no problem. Minimize your risks by not using blings and enjoy the beautiful country it is
It was safe before now is medium safe the is not good at all
Safe if you go to the right places
I have been to Brazil 4 times, and I partially agree with this article. It is mostly safe, but there is a relative risk of danger, mostly from thieves. However, if you go to the right places, it is very safe, and there is little to no danger- also, criminals tend to not target tourists. I would recommend going to Brazil with someone from the country, so that they can advise you with the right places to go. Lastly I would add that you should be careful driving in Brazil, as lorry drivers in particular sometimes don’t drive completely safely-especially on motorways. Go, and have fun, if you’re careful you will come to no harm.
If you want to be a World Traveler pay attention to your surrounding
Just an observation of your threads. I have spent the last 2 years on 4 trips averaging 60 days for each trip in Brazil. I live in Florida. I grew up in Miami, Florida in the ’80s-’90s. Back then crime back then was horrendous. Oh, and New York is way up there I would say like more Rio today. My friends would as me if is it dangerous. I would reply well at the farm 30 km south of Vitoria No, not at all. In Vela Vehla I felt safer than anywhere I have ever visited. In Vitoria in the city yes pay attention to your surrounding as I do anywhere I go. Some Americans walk around anywhere with no clue what “situational awareness ” is! What does that mean? Scan your surroundings. If you think you’re a baller with your Rolex and big gold chain you will probably get robbed or maybe kidnapped for $10,000. Also where you are, and what time, don’t walk alone like anywhere else in the world. There are crimes but no active shooters, It’s so nice we are building a home in Brazil.
Awful place
It’s really funny that the ones who “tend” to disagree are, of course, brazilians.
It’s extremely difficult to find people who had not been robbed or assaulted, unless you go to small and quite ugly cities with nothing to do or see (they’ll tell you there are things to do but there are not! beware! you didn’t cross the ocean for that). Also, a lot of white brazilians are very very racist (and most of them wouldn’t be considered white in north america).
Finally, unless you go for the beach and gals (careful, most of people are overweight in big cities) you will find all major cities very dirty, full of graffities (even in higher floors of buildings), blocks and blocks of abandoned buildings, tents with homeless in every park… it’s really disgusting.
Oh wow, you are incredibly disrespectful. Good thing you didn’t like it here, please don’t come back.
Food had salmonella on it
Unsafe and they are destroying the only one nice thing they have: landscape
JUST DON’T GO. YOUR LIFE IS AT RISK IN EVERY WAY
Too many pickpocketers at best
Not magic at all it’s VERY DIRTY at least all main tourist destinations, and full of graffiti and homeless. Plus people are kinda rude if you are foreigner and not blonde.
Hell on earth as a group of women backpackers. Do not recommend, plus police is the most corrupted in South America by far according to our experiences.
Disappointing, a new Turkey
Yes, most major cities are very violent, whether targeting tourists or not. And countryside not worth visiting, though…
But, what a resentment, uh? I would even think you spent a lot of time among Brazilians or be one yourself. BR is such a racist country, yet many southern Europeans are not considered white either in a Nordic-centred POV.
A.F.
Too much jungle
Very nice apes
It’s ok! Not that bad as they say. I strongly recommend trying a delicious dish of traditional Brazilian coussine called “Monkey Soup” or Sopa Do Macaco in local language. Google it.
Very beautiful country with an amazing culture, it is pretty dangerous though. Haven´t felt safe in any moment. Without the danger Brazil would be paradise and I would still recommend going.
Don't be spoiled!
I am pretty sure the people complaining this much about the country being dirty and dangerous have all just visited big cities like Rio and São Paulo. People saying the countryside isn’t worth visiting, are you kidding me?? The absolutely beautiful and amazing mountains, the untouched forest we have in so many places, the friendly people and nice food, the amazing ecosystem in general are all unworthy of your holy presence? And we’re talking about a country with absolutely divine beaches in cities like Arraial do Cabo, Buzios, Ilha Grande… and these places aren’t dangerous, at least not nearly as dangerous as people in the comments are making it out to be. I’ve lived in this country for over 20 years and have never been robbed, neither have my parents. I’ve lived in big and small cities. You just have to have some common sense and it will not happen. If you’re unsatisfied please request that the first world countries some of you come from stop interfering with our politics so maybe we can grow economically.
YOU’RE GOING TO BRAZIL
Come to Brazil you will love it!
I live in the USA and I believe that many cities in the USA are more dangerous than any city in South America!
The cities gangs and thieves , the White Supremacists, the KKK the Qnon and the racism are high.
Brazil population in general are very welcoming and they know how to party and enjoy life!
The food is great and the music and arts and sports superb!
Millions of people visit Brazil and many more move to live there.
I being visiting Brazil since 2005 and had never had been exposed to any crime or violence!
Idk
First of all racism is at an all-time low in the US. In Brazil it’s higher, and most Brazilian cities are in the top 50 all of them being In a worse position then American states, gun battles just don’t randomly happen in America like in Brazil, the most dangerous city in Brazil is the 8th most dangerous in the world while the most dangerous city in America is the 40tg so don’t make me laugh, do not compare Brazil to America. Brazil is in a worse place politically, economically, and dangerous.
Obviously paranoid—and I speak as an African American—gangs yes; kkk, qnon???!!! Been watching too much conspira-fantasy cable-Tel-Lie-Vision!!! Not saying R.ism isn’t real but the hair on fire race hustling in media is almost just as odious especially when innocent people are labeled, branded, castigated and punished (cancelled for no reason at all).
Hahaha
Racism is actually lower in USA than most countries, look it up.
I’m from Canada and that’s even more racist than USA.
Brasil, o paradiso na Terra!!!!
I’m an American citizen and have traveled around the world; I lived in São Paulo, Brasil with my family for the happiest years of our lives and I will not hesitate to relocate permanently to São Paulo, Brasil; we speak several languages fluently English (naturally), Portuguese, Spanish and a smattering of others; we thoroughly enjoyed the people, the year-round weather, International cuisine, and ALL things related to Brasil.
Eu nao sou brasileiro mais o meu coracao ficou sendo mais brasileiro do que muitos dos Cariocas e Paulistas e outros mais.
Para nous, Brasil eis o País mais semelhante ao paradiso. Si eu pudese, voltaria pea la’ ONTEM!!!
Could be better, but sadly is not anymore.
Thank you for your opinion Jose! I’m a Brazilian that moved to Canada with my wife and kids 4 years ago. I love Canada so much that makes me not even think about living in Brazil again. I had problems with security a couple of times in my life living there, and I’m talking about 37 years. Yes, Brazil is a BEAUTIFUL country! Yes, Brazil has an amazing culture and people. But some aspects make (sadly I’m talking about the crab culture and our bad politics) the country deteriorate more and more every year. Still, I have Brazil in my heart, all my family still there. But I can live there anymore, for me does not worth it. I used to say that Brazilians that still are living there today, and being VERY generalist, are like frogs in a saucepan. They don’t feel the heat anymore and when they figure out is too late, they die.
If you want to visit the country go, but be careful, and everything will be fine. But I will not suggest living there anymore.
Dont go
Don’t Go Brazil or you going to have a lot of lag in the lounge, trust me I know some brazil players that are very laggy
It can be an amazing place but it has it’s dark side
Like someone already said Brazil is safe if you go to the right places. The favelas should be a no-go zone as the poverty there will drive people to do all sorts of stupid things. Thieves are present in all crowded areas so watch your pockets. I agree that Sao Paolo is safer than Rio although Rio is a beautiful city. It’s best to go to Brazil in groups of at least 4 people and just avoid the bad areas. Doing so will result in a great vacation as Brazil has so much to offer.
If you rent a car or drive your own, be careful as some drivers here have nothing in common with the rules of driving. Keep your eyes open and try to avoid overcrowded roads if/when possible.
As a woman, I would never go here alone. Last time I was there we were 7 people and I didn’t feel unsafe. Even when I saw a small group of pickpockets I wasn’t afraid as we had 5 guys with us. But it’s clear that the poverty in this country does “encourage” some people (even kids) to try and steal money or things. It’s always best to keep a close look on your belongings and not waver money, credit cards or your phone around as someone may steal it.
As for where to go, there are so many amazing destinations. The Tijuca National Park for example, is beautiful and here you will find the Cristo Redentor statue. Seeing this in pictures or even on video is nothing, just wait until you are here! It’s so big and if you look down from there, the view is absolutely breathtaking! And the park is so fantastic, with countless birds, springs and waterfalls.
The Iguacu Falls is also something you don’t see everywhere. Some of the falls are 100+ meters high and they mark the meeting point for Brazil, Paraguay and Argentina. The best view is from the Brazilian side but you can also go a bit into the Argentinian side for some different views.
There are many other interesting places that one should visit if they have the time. Pernambuco Beaches, the beautiful art museums of Sao Paolo, Belo Horizonte, Ipanema, Copacabana.
Too much poverty
DO NOT TAKE YOUR NEW IPHONE TO THE BEACH IN RIO IT WILL BE SNATCHED. Bring a cheap back up phone or no phone at all at the beach or when walking in the streets.
Lovely, don't let the fear get to you
There’s absolutely so much to do in Brazil, and the “imminent danger” is absurdly overstated. Don’t let the bad fame get to you. Watch vlogs from small Youtube channels that went there. You can stay in that country for 90 days till your Visa expires and you will still have so much to do.
It is very unlikely anything happens to you, and still, if it does it probably will be just a pickpocket snatching your wallet on a city. Tourists are not targeted at all, most crime apparently happens in poor neglected neighborhoods.
Candomble
I’ve never been to Brazil, but am interested in Candomble. I’ve read much about it, and have met practitioners here in St. Louis, Missouri. U.S.A. Can anyone commenting here offer insights on this fascinating faith, or better yet, relate some personal experience?
Love the people and culture. Be respectful and you should be fine!
I have been to Brazil 3 times, I fly into Salvador, Bahia.
All my experiences in Brazil have been excellent. I tell you why. It is because I respect their country and their culture. On top of this I go with the flow, which means I am able to meet people easily. I have made excellent and close friendships in Bahia state. I have been rewarded with seeing the real Brazil and that is why I goto Brazil, to be a part of Brazil, to try and fit in. Yes my nickname to my friends in Brazil is “Gringo Louco” and that is fine, it does not bother me in the slightest. I am laid back and just go with the flow. I think this is where a lot of people go wrong in Brazil, is they go out their, you can tell a Brit when you see one or an American. Brits are red from sun burn and they just stand out and that makes them a target. Americans tend to be blinged up and loud mouthed. All of this attracts the wrong type of people, no matter where these types visit in the World.
Me, well I am lucky to be Portugues, Maori bloodline, I am olive color skin, I speak some Portugues and given the right circumstances, when around my friends in Brazil, I feel integrated and no one is looking at me, no threats it seems, because I dont look like a tourist, because I have friends and go to places regular tourists will never be able to go. I have a friend that lives in a favela in Aracaju. I have stayed there, it did not bother me in the slightest. I felt welcomed and again, I was with friends who know what is right and what is wrong. Out of respect that evening I was in Aracaju, I stayed at my friends place, even though another friend had booked into a hotel and was surprised I was staying at my friends place in a so called Favela. Although it is not like a Rio or Sao Paulo favela, in all honesty. But again, I was not complacent, I am respectful of other countries rules and again, with a friend or two, you just look like one of the locals.
I love Brazil, I am in particular fond of Bahia state. It is laid back, the beaches are amazing, the people in Salvador are exceedingly friendly from my experience and because I have made friends I end up going to their houses for lunch and dinners, going to hidden beachside restaurants that the regular tourist would never know about unless you have Bahian friends, etc, etc.
Maybe I am lucky when I travel, because I like to meet new people, I am laid back and I respect the culture. This is why I do not have trouble I think. Not being frightened, but keeping your wits about you, means you are more likely to blend in.
Personally, I goto places like Bahia to get away from British people who I find to be obnoxious and arrogant. In Bahia, this place is not for them, it is too risky for them probably, because they do not respect the culture, or very few do, so they stand out. Being red you stand out, even in the South of Brazil, Brits just stand out.
So no I love Brazil, its people, I feel welcome and even though I am olive color skin, I have never experienced any racism in Brazil. I know white and black people, it does not matter to me. That mentality helps you to get along.