Is Salvador, Brazil Safe?

Cities have different personalities and many aspects contribute to the overall climate of the area’s safety. In the case of Salvador, Brazil, communities, companies, and tourists alike should consider the safety precautions before visiting, living or conducting business in this beautiful city.

Salvador is located in the Bahia State is known for its vibrant history, culture and stunning views. The city has become a major international tourist and business destination within the country, with an estimated 4.2 million people living in its metropolitan area according to data from the UN.

Overall, many common-sense travel precautions should be taken to ensure personal safety while in Salvador.

Violent Crime

Like many other large cities around the world, Salvador is also know to have violence and crime which is why it is important to stay aware of one’s surroundings, especially when visiting unfamiliar areas of the city.

Though there has been a decrease in violent crime in the past few years in Salvador, there is an increasing number of reports of armed robberies, assaults, and purses (facapo) thefts. In response to violent crime, Salvador has established a “Special Security War” which includes increased security forces, surveillance cameras, and prevention programs.

Residential Safety

If choosing to live in Salvador, safety should be a top priority. Neighborhoods with high crime rates are concentrated in various areas, namely Liberdade, Ponta do Seixas, Alto do Cotomino and Brotas. Local crime often revolves around drug trafficking and organized crime groups which have expanded into corrupting public servants.

Tourism Safety

Fortunately, the majority of tourists visiting Salvador are unlikely to be the target of crime; however they must still be aware of their surroundings at all times. Tourists should generally not visit impoverished areas and should avoid carrying large amounts of cash.

Additional safety tips include avoiding rides with unlicensed drivers and never leaving one’s drink unattended. Travelers that require extra safety can also rent a car or hire a driver as an added security measure.

Salvador’s Beach Safety

Thieves often target tourists who are relaxing or swimming at the beaches in Salvador. It’s important to stay aware of one’s belongings such as bags and phones as these can easily be stolen.

Further safety precautions should include not swimming at unpatrolled beaches after dark and always wearing shoes when walking on the beach or in the water. Additionally, visitors should also be cautious when hiring boats for fishing or tours as there have been incidents of boat theft in the area.

What Else Can I Do To Stay Safe in Salvador?

In addition to taking precautions to protect one’s personal safety while visiting Salvador, travelers should also contact their home country’s embassy or consulate in the city for more safety advice. Emergency contacts should be carried at all times as the emergency number for police (190) may not be immediately available when needed. It is also very important to purchase travel insurance before visiting the city as medical care is not free and can become quite costly if an injury occurs.

Overall, though it is important to remain aware of one’s surroundings while in Salvador, it can still be an enjoyable visit if proper safety precautions are taken. All visitors should remember to remain calm and collected at all times while navigating their way through the spectacular city of Salvador, Brazil.

For more information about staying safe while visiting Salvador, visit Tripadvisor’s guide on Safety in Salvador.

Insider’s Guide to Salvador, Brazil

Salvador is a beautiful city located in the northeastern coast of Brazil, with turquoise waters and rich cultural heritage. While it’s understandable to have concerns about safety when travelling, Salvador is generally a safe city, as long as you take the necessary precautions, such as avoiding walking alone at night in certain areas of town. With that in mind, let’s explore the best attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions that Salvador has to offer.

Local Attractions

Salvador has many attractions that make it unique. First on the list is the Pelourinho Historic Center, a UNESCO World Heritage site with colonial architecture and vibrant colors. You can’t miss the Elevador Lacerda, a large neo-classical elevator connecting the Upper and Lower City, with an amazing view of the bay. Beach-wise, you can visit Porto da Barra, a beautiful, glassy-watered beach popular with locals. To learn more about the city’s history, visit the Afro-Brazilian museum, highlighting the city’s rich Afro-Brazilian culture.

Dining Spots

When it comes to food, Salvador will surely impress you with its rich cuisine. You can’t miss acarajé, a fried black bean fritter filled with shrimp and other ingredients, sold by street vendors around town. Seafood lovers will appreciate the many moqueca restaurants, offering a delicious Brazilian fish stew. For those looking for a more sophisticated culinary experience, try Casa de Tereza in Santo Antônio Além do Carmo, which serves unique Bahian cuisine in a cozy environment.

Cultural Experiences

Salvador is known as the cultural capital of Brazil and offers a wide range of cultural experiences for visitors. One of the most famous festivals is Carnaval, which takes place in February and lasts for almost a week. During this time, the city is full of parades, parties, and live music in the streets. Other cultural events include the Lavagem do Bonfim, a religious festival that involves washing the steps of the Bonfim church, and the many live performances at Teatro Castro Alves.

Local History

Salvador’s history is deeply rooted in slavery and the Afro-Brazilian culture that emerged from it. To learn more about this aspect of the city’s history, visit the many historic churches, such as the Igreja de São Francisco, featuring intricate baroque carvings, and the Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Rosário dos Pretos, a church built by and for enslaved people. Additionally, The Yemanjá Museum tells the story of the Afro-Brazilian religion of Candomblé, which is still practiced by many locals.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you’re interested in exploring more of Salvador’s surroundings, head to the island of Itaparica, just an hour ferry ride away, for stunning beaches and laid-back vibes. Or, take a trip to Praia do Forte for turtle conservation efforts and beautiful natural surroundings. For a unique look at life at sea, the Forte de Santo Antônio da Barra Museum offers a glimpse into the city’s seafaring and naval history.

To wrap it up, Salvador, Brazil, is a perfectly safe place to explore with many attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions. By keeping in mind the basic safety rules, you can have the time of your life in this stunning city.