After traveling solo in Brazil and speaking with many nomads and expats, I’ve collected stories, tips, and experiences. Brazil is a massive country with a wide array of cultures, people, and activities. There’s so much to do as a solo traveler, and so many reasons to plan your first (or next) visit.
Whether you like beaches or mountains, cities or towns, Brazil has something to offer everyone. You don’t need perfect Portuguese or the perfect itinerary. Read on below for detailed information about traveling solo in Brazil.
Is Brazil Safe for Solo Travelers and Expats?
The simple answer to this question is: Yes.
Brazil has a number of areas known for their safety and security. Much like anywhere else you may travel in the world, there’s some things to keep in mind.
Staying Safe in Brazil
- Travel During the Day: Whether you’re arriving off a flight or taking a bus, do your best to move around cities and towns during the day. This is true anywhere in the world, but definitely applies to Brazil as well.
- Learn Basic Portuguese: The little things count, such as learning how to greet and ask simple questions. This goes a long way with locals, because English proficiency in Brazil is rare.
- Have a Plan: Know where you’re going and be sure to check your bus schedule, plan your Ubers, and speak with your hotel or Airbnb owner ahead of arriving to ask for tips about getting there securely.
Where to go in Brazil as a Solo Traveler, Digital Nomad, or Expat
As stated above, Brazil is a huge country, about as big as the United States. You can have a varied experience in the country, going from beaches to mountains and from big cities to small towns.
Here are the best places for solo travelers in Brazil:
Sao Paolo
Sao Paolo is a big city visited by international business people, travelers, expats, and nomads alike. It’s one of the biggest cities in the world, but don’t be intimidated, because Sao Paolo is known for being easier to navigate and safer than Rio De Janeiro.
There’s a number of things to experience in Sao Paolo such as the incredible nightlife, variety of food and cultures, and big parks. Because it’s a big city, you have plenty of amenities to access such as reliable hotels and Uber rides, food delivery, and more.
The best neighborhoods to visit and live are: Jardins, Consolação, Paraiso, and Bela Vista. These are reliable neighborhoods that Brazilians and expats live securely in.
While visiting, avoid the busy downtown areas of Sao Paolo. It can be hectic, and this is where petty crimes such as theft can occur. Sao Paolo is also known for having bad traffic. Avoid traveling at rush hour to avoid wait times and high fares.
It is best to navigate the city by using Uber, although the bus network in Sao Paolo is also effective and extensive.
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