Is It Safe to Visit Copacabana Beach in Rio de Janeiro?
Copacabana Beach is one of the must-visit places in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, but unfortunately, this destination does not have the best reputation when it comes to safety. Is it safe to visit Copacabana Beach? This post will give you an answer, altogether with tips on how to stay safe, how to get to the beach, where to stay and what to pack.
Rio de Janeiro was one of the most beautiful cities we've visited not only in Brazil but generally in South America.
The main reason why we enjoyed our four nights in the city so much was not the architecture or the lively atmosphere, but the exceptional landscape where Rio de Janeiro is set. You probably could not think of a more picturesque place to develop an urban area.
The city is overlooked by the statue of Christ the Redeemer, surrounded by beautiful green hills such as Sugarloaf Mountain, and last, but not least, the coast is lined with many sandy beaches.
And one of those beaches stands out among others. Rio de Janeiro's crown jewel belongs among the world's most famous beaches, and by now you probably know what beach are we talking about.
Correct, it is Copacabana Beach.
Although it could seem that Copacabana Beach is a must-visit attraction for every traveler in Rio de Janeiro, because of its complicated safety situation, more and more of Rio's foreign visitors at the end decide to leave out the beach of an itinerary.
Before arriving in Rio de Janeiro we had read many articles and had heard many stories from our fellow travelers, and most of those stories were not positive.
We could even read some articles about murdered tourists and locals - this can give you an idea Copacabana is not yet another ordinary beach.
Nevertheless, thousands of people still visit the beach daily.
To be honest, for the very first time in a year traveling around South and Central America, we felt a bit intimidated by the negative reputation of Copacabana Beach (and Rio overall), and at first, we were even considering to skip this place entirely.
Fortunately, the adventurous soul inside us did not let us, and one sunny afternoon we took a cab and set off to explore Copacabana Beach, and glad we did.
Are you wondering if it is safe to visit Copacabana Beach in Rio de Janeiro?
Keep on reading.
IS IT SAFE TO VISIT COPACABANA BEACH?
For many, Copacabana Beach is a symbol of danger as robbings and muggings at knifepoint or gunpoint occur, and mounds of trash are piling at almost every turn.
When you hear this, it does not sound like a place where you would like to lie on a beach relaxing.
Although stories about doubtful safety situation on Copacabana Beach are for sure not entirely made up and are not wide of the mark, you should always realize that people usually share a negative experiences than the positive ones, and you should always read between the lines.
First off, we must admit we are not fans of city beaches.
We've seen so many abandoned beaches in Indonesia or the Philippines, that beaches in the city are usually not that impressive for us as they are often crowded and dirty.
But, the truth is, we enjoyed our time on Copacabana Beach.
Yes, there were people around, yes there were vendors, but as we were mostly walking, they did not harass us.
What we did not see, it was the trash and plastic waste.
On the contrary, we found Copacabana Beach cleaner than we had expected - and we really looked around.
We walked all the length of Copacabana Beach, and maybe we were only lucky and maybe a day before was a garbage day, but if we were you, we would not be afraid that Copacabana Beach is dirtier than other city beaches.
HOW TO STAY SAFE WHEN VISITING COPACABANA BEACH
If you plan on visiting Copacabana Beach, here are several rules you should follow to stay safe.
Transport | First, you need to get to Copacabana Beach. Although we always, when possible, explore any city in the world on own using public transport, this time we took Uber to the beach from the city center where we stayed.
Not only taking a taxi increases your chances to stay safe, but you can also decide what part of the beach you'll see as it is pretty long.
Valuables | If possible, leave your valuables in your hotel room. We know it is hard, as you cannot travel anywhere without money and you for sure want to take pictures, but either be prepared to keep an eye on your valuables all the time or rather leave them behind.
We think it is not necessary to have a credit card and camera (we had a small mirrorless camera as it is a nature of our work to take pictures). Unless you are an enthusiast photographer, take only your phone.
Vendors | You can often read that there are hundreds of vendors on Copacabana Beach who will ask you hundreds of times during the day whether you want to buy a hammock or a drink, and they will rob you while asking (or their accomplice). Well, this can be true.
We decided to walk on the beach rather than sit and sunbathe, so we were asked only once if we did not want to buy anything (sure we wanted caipirinha), but if you decide to relax on the beach, it is much better to pretend you are sleeping, but still it is important to watch closely your bags.
Crowds | Copacabana can be quite crowded, and it is easy for anyone to snatch your bag from your shoulder. Be always aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your backpack all the time, only this way you won't be an easy target.
We do not want to sound that you can meet dangerous people on your every step - enjoy your time on the beach as you normally would, but be a bit more cautious.
What to Do in Copacabana Beach | It is always better to visit Copacabana Beach as a couple or as a part of a larger group, so this way you can go swimming or relax on the sand, while someone else can watch your bag all the time.
Except for swimming, and sunbathing, you can jog or walk on the beach, play football or drink caipirinha at one of many bars along the beach.
Alcohol | When it comes to alcohol, remember one simple rule, everything in moderation!
Do not Visit the Beach after Dark | This is rule number one. You are relatively safe on Copacabana Beach during the daylight when there are many people around, but your chances drop significantly lower when you visit the beach after dark.
There is no reason for you to be on Copacabana Beach after dark (especially not recommended for solo travelers).
You can have a romantic walk elsewhere or have a drink in the city center. We cannot stress this enough.
Although we found Copacabana Beach relatively safe during the day, we would not go there by no means at night. It is a completely different place, and you are too vulnerable there.
When Something Happens Do Not Fight Back | When you are unlucky, and surrounded by thieves, never fight back, and always give them everything valuable you have with you.
No electronic and no amount of money is so valuable to cost you a life.
Stay near Copacabana Beach | In case you are driven to visit the beach more than once, consider staying right on the beach.
This way, you will be able to carry only a towel and spend there a stress-free time. You can search for the best hotels on Copacabana Beach below.
Travel Insurance
We never leave home without travel insurance that was designed to cover our expenses if something goes wrong during the trip.
Travel insurance protects against theft, flight delays, injury, illness, cancellations, and much more.
World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers to cover their trip essentials, including sports and adventure activities.
SafetyWing is affordable travel insurance for backpackers, long-term travelers, and digital nomads.
Travel smarter and safer!
READ MORE:
Brazil: The Perfect 2-Week Itinerary
Sao Paulo Guide: Visit the Largest City in Brazil
A Complete Guide To Visiting Iguazu Falls
Brasilia: A Practical Guide for First Time Visitors
Florianopolis Guide: Exploring Magical Island in Brazil
35 Fun Activities and Things To Do In Paraty, Brazil
3 Best Things to Do in Belo Horizonte
WHERE TO STAY ON COPACABANA BEACH
When in Rio de Janeiro, you have two solid options on where to stay.
You can find a hotel in the city center, or close to Copacabana and Ipanema Beach.
Considering the fact that either way you will most likely get around the city by taxi, we almost think it is better to stay near the world-known beaches, where you can relax after all day sightseeing.
We've handpicked three best hotels close to Copacabana Beach for every type of traveler.
Budget | Solar Hostel Beach Copacabana - When traveling on a budget, this hostel is the best pick in the city if you want to stay close to the beach. This hostel offers clean rooms, both private and dormitories, guests can use a small kitchen, and terrace.
Mid-range | Rio Design Hotel - Modern design, panoramic views, pool, sauna, fitness, tasty breakfast, reasonable price, and satisfied guests make from this hotel one of the best mid-range accommodations in the city.
Luxury | Miramar Hotel by Windsor - Excellent hotel is located right on Copacabana Beach, so you can enjoy outstanding views of the sandy beach and Sugarloaf mountain as well. Gorgeous rooms and rooftop pool are another two reasons why to stay here when in Rio de Janeiro.
Alternatively, search for your accommodation via Hostelworld.
WHAT TO PACK FOR VISITING COPACABANA BEACH
Copacabana does not have the best reputation when it comes to safety.
And although we think you should not experience any troubles when you'll pay attention to your surroundings, and when you'll visit the place during daylight, it is always better to pack as little as you can when going to the beach.
To protect your valuables, here are five best accessories you should pack with you when visiting Copacabana Beach.
Anti-Theft Daypack | We recommend you to pack as light as possible when visiting Copacabana Beach, but in case you'll take valuables such as camera or phone, keep it in this backpack.
Travel Pouch | Take only as much cash you think is necessary for the day, and store it altogether with your ID to a travel pouch. We traveled with it for almost a year, and this little thing is invisible under clothes.
Camera Wrist Strap | To protect your camera when taking photos, use the wrist strap, which is a helpful accessory against theft.
Travel Resources
Here you can find links to all the travel resources we use and which you might find helpful when planning your next holiday.
Accommodation: When looking for accommodation, we usually search hotels via Booking.com or Hostelworld.
Tours: Although we love to travel independently, some places are better to visit with a guided tour.
We prefer GetYourGuide for its easy-to-use interface and solid reputation. Another great alternative is Viator.
Rental Cars: When going on a road trip, we always use Rentalcars.com, a reliable site for booking a rental car in advance.
Flight Tickets: When looking for flight tickets, you can search Skyscanner to find the best price.
Travel Insurance: World Nomads and SafetyWing cover against risks of travel.
