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Urban Safety Guidelines in Brazil: what actually matters to know

Short answer
Carry valuables in a hidden money belt under your clothing and avoid displaying mobile phones in public to reduce the risk of theft. While areas like the Botanical Garden are safe, exercise extreme caution in high-risk zones like Praça da Sé and avoid walking alone in secluded or dark areas.

From real experience

When traveling in Brazil, particularly in cities like Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, consider using a money belt or a hidden pouch worn under your clothing to carry valuables such as cash, credit cards, and your phone.
This significantly reduces the risk of becoming a target for street theft or pickpocketing. Simple, low-cost options like an under-shirt pouch are effective, as are more specialized anti-theft bags. Avoid openly displaying valuable items, including mobile phones, which are frequently targeted.
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Walking in downtown Rio de Janeiro (around the Cathedral, theater, and library) is generally considered safe during the day, provided you are cautious with your belongings, especially your phone and valuables.
Child abduction is rare; focus on protecting personal items. Be aware of the presence of homeless individuals, which might affect the ambiance. Navigating with a stroller can be difficult. Weekdays are generally busier than weekends in the city center, though specific areas might be less crowded on weekends.
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Walking alone with a camera along Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas in Rio de Janeiro is generally considered safe during daylight hours when there are many people around.
However, caution is advised, especially in darker areas closer to the mountains or during the evening. Keep personal belongings, particularly phones, secure and out of sight. For evening strolls, it is advisable to be extra vigilant or avoid going alone.
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When walking in Rio de Janeiro, specifically the Botafogo area, near Sugar Loaf and towards the Rio Sul mall from Cardeal Arcoverde metro station, it is generally considered safe during the day.
Some users report feeling safe walking alone even after 8 PM from Sugar Loaf to hotels near Botafogo metro. Exercise standard urban caution.
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The Botanical Garden in Rio offers a safe environment for visitors to walk with their phones out and take pictures, contrasting with general street safety concerns in other parts of the city.
It's a suitable location for a relaxed nature stroll, with wildlife like monkeys and birds often present.
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Praça da Sé in São Paulo is a high-risk area.
Avoid filming street dwellers and homeless people, as they may react aggressively and damage camera equipment. Paying them for photos is highly discouraged due to safety risks.
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