travel to recife brazil

Recife (‘heh-see-fee’), capital of Pernambuco, is one of the Northeast’s most exciting cities. It has a vibrant cultural, entertainment and restaurant scene, an intriguing historic center (Recife Antigo), an impressive coastal setting and a fabulous Carnaval. It's a sprawling, urban place of glassy high-rises, crowded commercial areas, thundering traffic and extensive suburbs; if you like your cities gutsy, gritty and proud, Recife is for you. It takes its name from the offshore recifes (reefs) that calm the waters of its ports and shoreline.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Oficina Cerâmica Francisco Brennand

Francisco Brennand, born in 1927 into an Irish immigrant family and now considered Brazil’s greatest ceramicist, revitalized his family’s abandoned tile…

Paço do Frevo

This strikingly red museum is a small and modern house of worship for frevo, the quintessential dance of the Recife Carnaval that is easily identified by…

Museu Cais do Sertão

Inaugurated in 2014, this bold museum highlights the culture of the sertão (the interior of Pernambuco state), especially as it relates to the godfather…

Capela Dourada

Built between 1696 and 1724, this gem of Brazilian baroque, part of the Convento de Santo Antônio, owes its name to the huge quantities of gold (said to…

Concatedral de São Pedro dos Clérigos

The 18th-century baroque Concatedral de São Pedro dos Clérigos has been totally renovated and contains incredibly fine stonework and wood carvings…

Instituto Ricardo Brennand

This scenic museum in Várzea, 11km west of central Recife, contains a huge collection of European and Brazilian art, swords, armor and historical…

Pátio de São Pedro

This traffic-free square, lined with bars, restaurants and colorful 19th-century houses, is one of Santo Antônio's more peaceful spots and a good place to…

Praça do Arsenal

Surrounded by many elegant colonial buildings, this square is at the heart of Recife Antigo. Colorful Rua do Bom Jesus, to the south of the square, was…

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Bugan Hotel Recife by Atlantica
Entre Amigos o Bode
Entre Amigos Praia
Cais Rooftop Lounge Bar
Camarada Camarão RioMar Recife
Spettus Steak House
Ricardo Brennand Institute
RioMar Recife Mall
Boa Viagem Beach
Oficina Ceramica Francisco Brennand
Praça do Marco Zero
City Tour Olinda and Recife
Private Transfer from Recife Airport to Maragogi
Private Transfer from Recife Airport to Porto de Galinhas
Tour to Praia De Carneiros
Full Day Tour to Olinda and Recife

The 8 Best Things to Do in Recife, Brazil

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Although it is Brazil's fourth largest city, Recife hasn't lost its traditional and cultural attractions to commercial development. The capital of Pernambuco state in northeast Brazil, Recife is a fluid mix of new and old.

Protected by the reef that gives the city its name, Recife is built around a number of inlets, canals, and bridges, living up to its name as the "Venice of Brazil." It offers walkable tours, great beaches , and lively arts and entertainment.

Recife is beautiful anytime thanks to its average year-round temperature in the 80s F. However, the city puts on a great carnival so you might want to schedule a visit to the Recife and Olinda carnivals in February/March, or to the off-season carnival, called Recifolia, in October. Either occasion means thousands of visitors, so make your reservations early.

Lounge on Boa Viagem Beach

Michael Runkel / robertharding / Getty Images

Brazil is known for its beaches and Recife is no different. One of the best places to catch some sun is Boa Viagem , an upscale area, which also offers most of the restaurants and nightclubs—some of which are oceanfront. Just keep in mind that this beach is known to have bull sharks, so you may want to stay on the sand instead of going for a swim.

Take a Cultural Walking Tour

Marco Simoni / robertharding / Getty Images

Take a walking tour of the old city from the Praca da Republica to the impressive, 19th-century Teatro Santa Isabel. From there head to the Catedral de Sao Pedro dos Clerigos (also called Recife Co-Cathedral). Next, browse through the colorful Mercado do Sao Jose (Saint John's Market) for local arts and crafts and handiwork, including a special section for lace, and finish your walk at the Basilica de NS da Penha.

Shop Until You Drop

Courtesy of Shopping Recife

Shopping Recife is Brazil's second-largest shopping center. It's been open for more than 30 years and now features around over 450 stores, 90 food options, and 14 cinemas. The mall is just five minutes from the Recife International Airport and a few blocks from the Boa Viagem beach, so it's a prime spot for tourists and locals alike.

Buy Souvenirs in a Former Prison

chivunck / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0

The cross-shaped Casa da Cultura is one of the most interesting buildings in Recife. Dating back to 1850, it was originally a prison and is now a crafts and arts center that sells souvenirs. There are around 150 shops selling local pottery, dolls, board games, leather accessories, embroidery, paintings, and more. There's also a food court where you can try some of Pernambuco's local cuisine and on the third floor is Frevo Museum, which showcases traditional music.

Tour a Ceramics Factory and Museum

Set in the building of his family's old brick factory, the Oficina Ceramica de Francisco Brennand is a ceramics factory, art studio, gallery, and museum all wrapped in one. Brennand comes from a long line of ceramicists and he started work on this factory in 1971 after studying in Europe. While there, admire the fountains, sculptures, and wander the extensive gardens

Visit the City's Best Museum

Museu do Homem do Nordeste / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0

Museu do Homem do Nordeste is considered one of Recife's best museums. It displays art and objects that depict the anthropology, history, and culture of the people in this region. The museum's modern galleries were built in 1979 to showcase local artifacts and works.

Wander the Colorful Streets of Olinda

Olinda is the reason many visitors travel to Recife. Olinda is a living museum, a UNESCO heritage city, and considered to be the origin of the entire Brazilian culture of the 16th century. It's also very charming, with old stone churches, bright and colorful buildings, a stunning beach with coral reef pools, and more.

Celebrate Carnival

Two months before the actual date, the Carnival rehearsals start and the blocos , or carnival section or group, draw in hundreds of watchers. The main dance is the frevo , an energetic, exhilarating experience. In Olinda, everybody participates. Don't forget to bring your costume—you'll need it to fit in with the festivities.

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Arts and crafts in Recife

Recife is probably the best big Brazilian city in which to find artesanato, and the area around Igreja São Pedro is the best place to look for it. Here, stalls coagulate into a bustling complex of winding streets, lined with beautiful but dilapidated early nineteenth-century tenements. The streets are choked with people and goods, all of which converge on the market proper, the Mercado de São José, an excellent place for artesanato (craft goods). If you can’t face the crowds, there’s a very good craft shop, Penha, on the corner of the Pátio de São Pedro, which is the main city outlet for some of Recife’s excellent woodcut artists. In the same shop, you’ll also find extremely inexpensive prints on both cloth and paper, known as cordel. Outside the shop, you can dig out cordel around the mercado or in Praça de Sebo, where the secondhand booksellers have stalls.

Carnaval in Recife is overshadowed by the one in Olinda, but the city affair is still worth sampling. The best place for Carnaval information is the tourist office, which publishes a free broadsheet with timetables and route details of all the Carnaval groups. You can also get a timetable in a free supplement to the Diário de Pernambuco newspaper on the Saturday of Carnaval, but it’s only a very approximate guide.

The blocos, or Carnaval groups, come in all shapes and sizes: the most famous is the Galo da Madrugada; the most common are the frevo groups (trucks called freviocas, with an electric frevo band aboard, circulate around the centre, whipping up already frantic crowds); but most visually arresting are caboclinhos, who wear modern Brazilian interpetations of a traditional Amazon Indian costume – feathers, animal-tooth necklaces – and carry bows and arrows, which they use to beat out the rhythm as they dance. It’s also worth trying to see a maracatu group, unique to Pernambuco: they’re mainly black, and wear bright costumes, the music an interesting (and danceable) hybrid of African percussion and Latin brass.

In Recife, the main events are concentrated in Santo Antônio and Boa Vista. There are also things going on in Boa Viagem, in the area around the Recife Palace Lucsim Hotel on Avenida Boa Viagem, but it’s too middle-class for its own good and is far inferior to what’s on offer elsewhere. Carnaval officially begins with a trumpet fanfare welcoming Rei Momo, the Carnaval king and queen, on Avenida Guararapes at midnight on Friday, the cue for wild celebrations. At night, activities centre on the grandstands on Avenida Dantas Barreto, where the blocos parade under the critical eyes of the judges; the other central area to head for is the Pátio de São Pedro. During the day, the blocos follow a route of sorts: beginning in Praça Manuel Pinheiro, and then via Rua do Hospício, Avenida Conde de Boa Vista, Avenida Guararapes, Praça da República and Avenida Dantas Barreto, to Pátio de São Pedro. Good places to hang around are near churches, especially Rosário dos Pretos, on Largo do Rosário, a special target for maracatu groups. The balconies of the Hotel do Parque are a good perch, too, if you can manage to get up there. Daylight hours is the best time to see the blocos – when the crowds are smaller and there are far more children around. At night, it’s far more intense and the usual safety warnings apply.

South from Recife

The coast south of Recife has the best beaches in the state and is all too quickly realizing its tourist potential – the sleepy fishing villages are unlikely to remain so for much longer. Almost all buses take the BR-101 highway, which runs inland through fairly dull scenery, made worse by heavy traffic. The trick is to get a bus that goes along the much more scenic coastal road, the PE-60, or via litoral; they leave from either Avenida Dantas Barreto or the Recife Rodoviária for the string of towns down the coast from Cabo, through Ipojuca, Sirinhaém, Rio Formoso to São José da Coroa Grande. Before São José, where the road starts to run alongside the beach, you may need to catch another local bus to get to the beachside villages themselves. In theory, you could hop from village to village down the coast on local buses, but only with time to spare. Services are infrequent – early morning is the usual departure time – and you might have to sleep on a beach or find somewhere to sling a hammock, as not all the villages have places to stay. As you move south, bays and promontories disappear, and walking along the beaches to the next village is often quicker than waiting for a bus.

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The 14 BEST things to do in Recife, Brazil

January 4, 2023
14 Best Things

Introduction

Welcome to The Journey Seeker! Find out all about best things to do in Recife, Brazil!

Atmosphere / Vibes

Aerial View Of Rio De Janeiro Brazil In Clouds in Recife, Brazil.

Weather throughout the year

Marco Zero Square, Recife, Brazil in Recife, Brazil.

Why Recife, Brazil is the best place to be

Beautiful beaches: Recife has some of the most stunning beaches in Brazil, with crystal clear waters and soft, white sands. Whether you want to relax on the beach or try your hand at water sports, you’ll find something to suit your interests.
Rich history and culture: Recife has a rich and fascinating history, with a mix of Portuguese, African, and indigenous influences. You can learn more about this history by visiting the city’s many museums and historical sites.
Delicious food: Recife has a diverse and vibrant food scene, with something for every taste. From fresh seafood to traditional Brazilian dishes, you’ll find plenty of delicious options to choose from.

Cost of Travel

Top 14 best things to do in recife, brazil.

Monochrome Photo Of Man Releasing Smoke in Recife, Brazil.

Visit Boa Viagem Beach: Boa Viagem is Recife’s most popular beach, with its wide stretches of soft, white sands and crystal clear waters. You can relax on the beach, take a swim, or try your hand at some water sports.
Explore the Recife Antigo district: The Recife Antigo district is the city’s historic center, with charming cobblestone streets and colonial-style buildings. You can visit the city’s museums, churches, and squares, or just take a leisurely stroll and soak up the atmosphere.
Go on a boat tour: Recife is a city of waterways, and one of the best ways to see it is by boat. You can take a tour of the city’s rivers and canals, and see the city from a different perspective.
Try some local cuisine: Recife has a diverse and vibrant food scene, with something for every taste. You can try traditional Brazilian dishes like feijoada (a hearty stew made with beans and meat) or moqueca (a seafood stew).
Visit the Mercado de São José: The Mercado de São José is a bustling market in the heart of Recife, selling everything from fresh produce and seafood to handmade crafts and souvenirs. You can spend hours exploring the stalls and trying new foods.
Take a stroll through the Jardim Japones: The Jardim Japones (Japanese Garden) is a tranquil oasis in the middle of the city, with beautiful gardens, koi ponds, and a teahouse. It’s the perfect place to relax and unwind.
Go shopping at Boa Vista Mall: If you’re looking for some retail therapy, Boa Vista Mall is the place to be. It’s the largest mall in Recife, with hundreds of stores and restaurants. You can spend the whole day here, trying on clothes, eating delicious food, and catching a movie.
Visit the Recife Art Museum: The Recife Art Museum is home to a collection of Brazilian art from the 19th and 20th centuries. You can see works by famous artists like Candido Portinari and Carybé, as well as contemporary pieces.
Check out the Donana National Park: The Donana National Park is a protected area just outside Recife, with a rich array of flora and fauna. You can take a guided tour and see animals like jaguars, monkeys, and exotic birds.
Take a surfing lesson: Recife has some great waves, making it a popular spot for surfing. If you’ve never tried it before, you can take a lesson and learn from the pros.
Visit the Recife Shark Aquarium: The Recife Shark Aquarium is home to a variety of marine animals, including sharks, rays, and turtles. You can see these creatures up close and learn about their habitats and behavior.
Enjoy a night out in Boa Viagem: Boa Viagem is the city’s nightlife hub, with a variety of bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from. You can dance the night away or just relax with a drink and enjoy the atmosphere.
Go on a street art tour: Recife is known for its vibrant street art scene, with murals and graffiti covering the city’s walls. You can take a tour and see some of the best pieces, or just wander the streets and see what you can find.

Green Grass Field Under White Sky in Recife, Brazil.

Have you thought about staying in Recife for a little longer and working remotely? Here is another blog post about becoming a Digital Nomad in Recife

Did you like this post? Have a look at our other blog posts about living in Brazil , such as Belo Horizonte , Porto Alegre or Porto Alegre .

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36 Hours in Recife (and Environs)

A different kind of Brazil is waiting in the country’s lively northeast corner, where musical, culinary and architectural marvels await.

By Shannon Sims

Many people visiting Brazil make a beeline for the beaches of Rio de Janeiro. In doing so, they fly over Brazil’s fourth largest city, and one of the most culturally fascinating regions in the country. Recife and the northeastern corner of Brazil are a world apart from Rio, São Paulo and the rest of southern Brazil. The climate is hotter, and much of the food and music can only be authentically consumed in the region itself. It is also a hub of Brazilian political agitation (the northeast, of which Recife is a de facto capital, was the only region to vote against the right-wing president, Jair Bolsonaro, in the last election). Visitors today will find a city that seems at first glance unlovable: One of the most famous songs about the city — and an example of a Recife music genre called manguebeat, or mangrove beat — is called “Rivers, Bridges and Overpasses” (“Rios, Pontes e Overdrives”), and that’s what Recife’s center looks like, to a large extent. But farther south are the teal waters of Boa Viagem beach, and north is the charmingly colorful pocket community of Olinda. Just a few days in the area will have visitors appreciating a different kind of Brazil.

(Note: Although the fires from the Amazon region have led to smoky skies in São Paulo in southeastern Brazil, no smoke or fires have been reported in Recife, which is 2,000 miles from the fires in the Amazon Basin.)

36 Hours in Recife

1) 12 p.m. downtown lunch.

This is a city that loves to lunch — a good excuse to get out of the intense midday sun. In a cobblestone alleyway running alongside the São Pedro square of central Recife, the tiny, mint-green São Pedro Restaurant offers a Parisian sidewalk setting amid the hustle and bustle of weekday Recife. The menu consists of four or five rotating items, among them: delicious caldo do mar, or seafood soup, which is tomato-based and packed with rock clams, shrimp and fish; and arroz de carangueijo, or crab rice, a paella-like skillet dramatically adorned with crab claws. A bottle of Portuguese vinho verde suits the setting perfectly. Lunch for two without wine, 70 reais, or about $17.

2) 2 p.m. Artisanal browsing

Head over to Marco Zero — the central axis from which the rest of Recife sprawls out, and the center of cultural preservation for the city. There is plenty to do there, so split it up between today and tomorrow by starting with the Centro de Artesanato de Pernambuco , an introduction to local artisan offerings, from clay kitchenware to Carnaval iconography, some of which is available for purchase. Then, if you need a jolt, grab an espresso at the local northeastern grinder Cafe São Braz across the plaza.

3) 4 p.m. Sunset on the Capivara

Skip Friday rush hour and taxi over to the dock for a one-and-a-half-hour sunset cruise of historic downtown Recife and its many bridges from the vantage point of the Capibaribe (Capivara) River. From the open-air catamaran, look for the ceramic statues of the Sculpture Park of Francisco Brennand, with works by one of the most famous artists from Recife lining the jetty across from Marco Zero. Catamaran Tours operates a 4 p.m. departure that catches the sunset on the way back. Check the schedule ahead of time. Cost: 60 reais per adult.

4) 7:30 p.m. Northeast feast

The best way to embrace the scope of northeastern cuisine is at Parraxaxá, in the Boa Viagem neighborhood, where a traditional Brazilian per-kilo buffet turns into a cornucopia of otherwise difficult to find local foods worth trying, such as stewed goat with dried coconut and pumpkin, carne-de-sol steak (a kind of brisket) covered in queijo coalho (a local cheese), and fruit juices made from gritty cajá and milky cashew fruit. It’s also the perfect place to load up on the leafy greens you might crave post-travel. Dinner for two, 80 reais.

5) 9 a.m. Zero marks the spot

Head back to Marco Zero for a deeper dive into the city’s culture. For a glimpse of the region’s drought-stricken hinterlands, walk over to the Museum Cais do Sertão (entry, 10 reais), where typical hinterland home life is depicted in a family-friendly exhibition, and where listening booths allow you to hear the sounds of Pernambuco state’s rich musical history. Sample chewy cashew brittle from the vendor carts around the square outside.

6) Noon. Made in the shade

Featuring a shady courtyard of fruit trees and an artisan beer list, Cá-Já is a new hot spot, run by a young chef whose food emphasizes fresh vegetables. A house-grown roasted vegetable bowl, frog-meat won tons in umami broth, and a small plant pot full of chocolate are some of the dishes to be had, often beneath a blanket of fresh herbs. Reservations suggested. Lunch for two, 100 reais.

7) 3 p.m. Olinda, the beautiful

What Recife lacks in aesthetic character is more than made up for by its suburb Olinda, whose historic center, a UNESCO site and one of the best preserved colonial centers in Brazil, is 20 minutes north of Recife. Colorful, winding stone streets, terra-cotta rooftops and swaying palms make Olinda a photographer’s dream; feel free to get lost. A good starting point is the first church of Brazil, the Sé Cathedral , at the top of a hill called Alto da Sé; besides being the center of Olinda, it offers a glorious view across the expanse of the Olinda-Recife area. Around February, Olinda transforms into a feverishly packed Carnaval party town; it is one of the top destinations for Carnaval celebrations in the world. To get an off-season taste, pop into the Casa dos Bonecos Gigantes (House of the Giant Puppets), where some of the traditional papier-mâché puppets that stiffly swing through the crowds during Carnaval are stored (entry 15 reais). Shoppers will devour tropical sundresses and other handmade finds at the female-owned atelier Período Fértil , and canvases by local artists at Sobrado 7 . Keep a pep in your step with a coffee at Estaçao Cafe , a fresh coconut water from one of the vendors at Alto da Sé, or something a bit stronger (like local cachaça) at the funky Bodega de Véio .

8) 7 p.m. Sunset and seafood

Once your calves are burning from the up and down of Olinda’s cobblestone hills, duck through the leafy entrance and take a glass elevator down to the treehouse-like Beijupirá , where local ingredients take a sophisticated turn. Try unusual cocktails made from hard-to-find fruit, like an acerola — or tart Brazilian cherry — caipirinha, before tucking into grilled fish and mango coated in sesame seeds. In mild weather, call several days ahead to reserve one of the few tables on the veranda overlooking Recife. Dinner for two, 160 reais.

9) 10 p.m. People-watching

Back in Recife, head to Bar Central in Recife’s historic district, where rickety sidewalk tables are set out in front of a compact block of bars. There you’ll find cold beer and casually divine people-watching, especially on weekend nights.

10) 10:30 a.m. Beach and bike

Join the crowds enjoying their Sunday morning in the sunshine of Boa Viagem beach. Between the waves and the occasional sharks (really), many locals just enjoy the turquoise horizon from their beach chairs. Pick-up basketball, bike rentals, beach volleyball and tennis are all options for those wanting to burn off the weekend.

11) 1:30 p.m. Oysters and beer

At Entre Amigos Praia , you can enjoy chic, oceanfront Miami vibes and fresh oysters from the region, scooped from a tank and served raw along with ice-cold beer. You might also want to convince your group to go in on a whole fish stuffed with plantains and shrimp-dotted farofa — Brazilian bread crumbs made from yucca. Lunch for two, 160 reais.

12) 4:30 p.m. Drum practice

That rhythm you’ve been hearing all across Recife is called maracatu, a traditional Afro-Brazilian musical form from northeastern Brazil, developed by slaves working the region’s sugar cane fields as a way of retaining their connection to Africa. The sound is intense and disarming, and during Carnaval it is one of the key rhythms heard across Recife. The best way to feel its thunder is to catch an open rehearsal of one of the many maracatu groups, such as the Sunday afternoon rehearsal of Maracatu Ògún Onilê in old Recife. It’s a good idea to read up on the origins and meaning of maracatu before visiting to better appreciate the distinct costumes and instruments, such as the alfaia drum, the agbê beaded gourd, and the gonguê cowbell. The rhythms can be considered sacred, so be discreet and mindful. It is a good idea to ask permission before taking photos or video of any maracatu group.

Theoretically, it would be nice to stay in a quaint inn near the center of Old Recife, but unfortunately, hotels in the center of town are generally either beautiful, but too dilapidated to be functional, or functional, but in a dodgy area. The Pina and Boa Viagem neighborhoods, an eight-minute drive south of town, offer the easiest solution. There, high-rise hotels aimed at the corporate set are chock-a-block, and what they lack in character they make up for in abundant breakfast buffets, beachfront views and strong air-conditioning.

For instance, Transamerica Prestige Beach Class International , which sounds like a Mad Libs of synonyms for “luxury,” is one of the most comfortable lodgings in Recife. It is just across the bridge from central Recife in the Pina neighborhood. At 35 floors, it is one of the tallest hotels along the coast; while imposing, it provides unencumbered views and is closer to Old Recife than the Boa Viagem neighborhood. A lap pool, gym and private balconies help compensate for the otherwise sterile setting. A complimentary breakfast buffet offers fresh juices, Brazilian cheese bread called pão de queijo, and an omelet and tapioca station. (Avenida Boa Viagem 420; transamerica.com.br/nossos-hoteis/transamerica-prestige-beachclass ; from about 300 reais).

Boa Viagem, right next to Pina, is the best neighborhood to find safe independent lodging options similar to high-rise hotels, but without breakfast. Apartments with a beach view range from $25 to $70 on Airbnb.

If you are committed to the Brazilian pousada, or bed-and-breakfast, concept, your best bet is to stay not in Recife but in Olinda, about 20 minutes by car to the north, where colonial homes have been fixed up and splashed with bright colors, making for uniquely memorable ambiences. The Pousada dos Quatro Cantos , with its lush gardens, canopy beds and distinctive decorations, is a fail-safe choice in the heart of Olinda. (Rua Prudente de Moraes 441; pousada4cantos.com.br/en-gb ; from about 250 reais).

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An earlier version of this article misstated the local results of the last presidential election in Recife. Jair Bolsonaro did not win in the city.

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Curator’s statement

Recife, often referred to as the "Venice of Brazil," is a city where history, culture and natural beauty coalesce into a vibrant urban tapestry. This comprehensive guide delves deeper into what makes Recife a must-visit destination in the northeast region of Brazil, offering travelers a well-rounded experience of its offerings

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Things to do in Recife, Brazil

Welcome to Recife, a gem of Brazil's Northeast and a city rich with culture, history and breathtaking natural beauty.

Known as the "Venice of Brazil" for its intricate system of rivers, islands and bridges, Recife offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern vibrancy.

This guide will take you through the heart of Recife, from the historical streets of Recife Antigo to the lively beats of its famous Carnival, and the serene waters of Boa Viagem Beach. Whether you're here to explore the depth of Brazilian history at the Instituto Ricardo Brennand, or simply enjoy the sun and sea, Recife provides an array of experiences. Prepare to immerse yourself in the local culture, cuisine and spectacular coastal scenery that make Recife a must-visit destination.

Recife Antigo (Old Recife)

Location: Center of Recife

Recife Antigo, the historical heart of Recife, is where the city’s vibrant past and present converge. This district is the original site where Recife was founded in the 16th century, and today it stands as a living museum, adorned with the architectural legacy of its colonial history. The streets here are a picturesque tableau, lined with colorful buildings whose facades are painted in bright hues, and the ground underfoot is a mosaic of ancient cobblestones, each telling a story of the era they were laid down.

A focal point of Recife Antigo is the Marco Zero Square, the very spot from which the city grew. It is more than just a historical landmark— it is a dynamic center of cultural life in Recife. The square is often filled with the vibrant energy of cultural festivities that draw locals and tourists alike. These include live musical performances, art installations and exhibitions that showcase the works of local artists, reflecting the rich artistic spirit of the region.

Surrounding Marco Zero are numerous other attractions that contribute to the area’s cultural richness. The Cais do Sertão Museum, located nearby, offers an immersive experience into the life and culture of the northeastern hinterland through interactive exhibits. Just a stone’s throw away, the Embaixada dos Bonecos Gigantes provides a unique glimpse into the traditional giant doll parades, a staple of Brazilian carnival culture.

Moreover, Recife Antigo’s revitalized dock area, once a busy port, now hosts a variety of bars, restaurants and artisan shops. This transformation from a commercial hub to a leisure district provides a perfect example of how the city honors its past while embracing modernity. The area’s nightlife is particularly notable, with venues offering live music ranging from traditional Maracatu and Frevo to modern Brazilian Pop, making it a perfect spot for evening outings.

Instituto Ricardo Brennand

Location: In the suburb of Várzea

The Instituto Ricardo Brennand, located in the tranquil suburbs of Recife, stands as a majestic cultural beacon. This unique institution is thoughtfully divided into three main sections: a museum, an art gallery and a library, each offering a distinct yet interconnected experience centered around art and history.

As a museum, the Instituto Ricardo Brennand houses an extensive collection of historical artifacts, which span several centuries and continents. Among its most celebrated collections are antique armory and weaponry. Visitors can explore displays of medieval armor, Renaissance-era swords, and firearms from various historical periods, each meticulously preserved and presented. This collection not only provides a window into the martial history of the world but also the technological advancements and artistic craftsmanship of armory through the ages.

The art gallery section of the institute emphasizes works from the colonial period in Brazil, particularly during the time of the Dutch invasion of Recife. This focus allows visitors to delve into a pivotal era in Brazilian history, seen through the lens of both Brazilian and Dutch artists of the time. The artworks, ranging from classical paintings to sculptures and tapestries, narrate stories of conquest, colonization and the cultural exchanges that these historical episodes entailed.

In addition to these, the institute also boasts a library filled with rare books and manuscripts, many of which are related to the history of Brazil and its colonization. Scholars and enthusiasts alike can access a wealth of primary sources that document the rich tapestry of Brazil’s past, offering insights not only into the country's colonial times but also into its indigenous cultures and the subsequent development of its national identity.

The architectural design of the Instituto Ricardo Brennand itself is a masterpiece. Gothic-style elements dominate the structural aesthetics, creating an ambiance that feels both ancient and timeless. The building is complemented by beautifully manicured gardens that surround it, featuring native Brazilian flora and designed with serene water features and quaint pathways. These gardens serve as a verdant oasis, inviting visitors to stroll and reflect amid the tranquility, away from the bustling urban environment of Recife.

Museu Cais do Sertão

Location: Near the Port of Recife

This museum is an ode to the northeastern Brazilian hinterland, the Sertão, and its people. It uses state-of-the-art technology and interactive displays to convey the harsh life and rich culture of the Sertão. Exhibits are dedicated to the music, crafts, and daily life of the region, with special emphasis on the legendary musician Luiz Gonzaga, who is revered for popularizing the Baião music genre.

Boa Viagem Beach

Location: Along the southern coast of Recife

Boa Viagem is not only the most famous beach in Recife but also one of the most beloved urban beaches in Brazil. Stretching over seven kilometers along the picturesque Atlantic coast, it is a magnet for both locals and tourists seeking sun, sea and sand. The expansive shoreline is lined with soft, golden sand, making it the perfect destination for beachgoers looking to relax, sunbathe or indulge in beach sports like volleyball and soccer.

The waters off Boa Viagem are uniquely protected by a long, natural reef barrier, which runs parallel to the coast. This barrier creates a calm, shallow lagoon between the reef and the beach, particularly during low tide when it is most visible. During these times, natural pools form within the lagoon, providing safe and serene spots for swimming and snorkeling. These pools are warm and clear, offering a tranquil retreat from the often rougher open ocean waters.

Good to know: Swimmers should be cautious of sharp coral and heed local warnings about shark safety.

Parque Dona Lindu

Location: In the Boa Viagem neighborhood

Designed by the acclaimed Brazilian architect Oscar Niemeyer, this park is a cultural hotspot in Recife. It features a modernist landscape design and houses an art gallery, a theater and an open-air amphitheater where frequent cultural events and concerts are held. The park is named after the mother of former Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva.

Catamaran Tours

Exploring Recife’s waterways offers a distinctive perspective on the city’s architecture and bustling river life. These tours navigate through the Capibaribe River and around the city’s islands, offering insights into Recife’s history and development from an aquatic viewpoint. Evening tours are particularly magical, offering views of the city's lights twinkling on the water.

Central to this celebration is the frevo, a high-energy dance and music genre that originated in Pernambuco in the late 19th century. Characterized by fast-paced beats and accompanied by brass bands, frevo involves dancers, known as "passistas," performing acrobatic moves while holding small, colorful umbrellas. This dance is not only a thrilling spectacle but also a cultural symbol, expressing the joyful and resilient spirit of the local people.

The highlight of Recife's Carnival is undoubtedly the Galo da Madrugada, or "Dawn Rooster" parade. It occurs on the first Saturday of Carnival and is renowned for its monumental scale, having been officially recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records as the largest carnival parade globally. The streets overflow with millions of revelers who come together from all walks of life to participate in this grand event. The parade is led by a giant rooster effigy, which has become an emblem of the parade and symbolizes the wake-up call for the city to begin its festivities.

Participants in the Galo da Madrugada are adorned in vibrant costumes and face paints, dancing to the rhythm of frevo and other local music styles like maracatu and caboclinhos, each style bringing its own rhythm, history, and dance moves to the streets. The parade weaves through central Recife, starting from Forte das Cinco Pontas, a historic fort, and making its way through key city landmarks, creating a spectacle of sound and color that encapsulates the essence of Pernambuco's carnival tradition.

Practical Tips

When to Visit: The best time to visit Recife is between September and March, when the weather is drier and warmer, ideal for enjoying the beaches and outdoor activities.

Getting Around: The city has a comprehensive public transport system, including buses and the metro, which are both economical ways to travel.

Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are widely available and recommended for safety and convenience.

Safety Tips: Tourists should exercise caution after dark and in less populated areas. It's wise to stay alert and keep valuables secure.

Recife offers a profound cultural immersion combined with natural beauty, making it a compelling destination for those looking to explore the depth of Brazil's heritage and contemporary vibrancy. Whether you're dancing to frevo during Carnival, relaxing on the beach or exploring the rich tapestry of its cultural sites, Recife offers a myriad of experiences that cater to all tastes and interests.

Olinda is often regarded as the perfect day trip destination from Recife, due to its close proximity and rich cultural and historical offerings.

Just a few kilometers north of Recife, Olinda is a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its well-preserved colonial architecture, vibrant arts scene and scenic beauty.

One of the main draws of Olinda is its historical significance. The city's streets are lined with colorful, centuries-old buildings, baroque churches and convents that tell the story of Brazil's colonial past. Visitors can explore these architectural marvels and gain insights into the rich history that shapes this region.

Art and culture thrive in Olinda. The city is famous for its lively Carnival, which is considered one of the most authentic and artistic in Brazil. Outside of Carnival season, Olinda continues to buzz with cultural activities, including handicraft markets, music performances and capoeira demonstrations. Art galleries and workshops provide a glimpse into local creative practices.

The city's elevated location offers panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, making it not only a feast for the eyes but also a peaceful retreat from the bustling urban atmosphere of Recife. The small hilltop city allows for leisurely exploration, with charming cafés and artisan shops around every corner.

Places to eat & drink in Recife, Brazil

Location: Santo Amaro, Recife

Cuisine: Traditional Portuguese

Highlight: As the oldest restaurant in Recife, established in 1882, Leite offers a classic ambiance and specializes in refined Portuguese cuisine. The menu features delicacies such as bacalhau (salted cod) and other seafood dishes, prepared with a timeless touch.

Location: Casa Forte, Recife

Cuisine: Northeastern Brazilian

Highlight: Parraxaxá provides a colorful and vibrant atmosphere where guests can enjoy traditional northeastern Brazilian dishes. The buffet-style service allows diners to sample a variety of local flavors, including sun-dried beef, cassava and an array of regional desserts.

Location: Boa Viagem, Recife

Cuisine: Seafood

Highlight: Known for its fresh and expansive selection of seafood, Bargaço is a favorite among locals and tourists. The restaurant's casual setting is perfect for enjoying specialties like lobster, shrimp and a famous fish stew known as moqueca.

Location: Cabanga, Recife

Cuisine: Peruvian

Highlight: Chicama offers a unique culinary experience with its menu of exquisite Peruvian dishes, particularly ceviche. The restaurant's décor is inspired by coastal Peruvian culture, providing a delightful backdrop for dining.

Cuisine: Contemporary

Highlight: Mingus is a fine-dining establishment with a sophisticated menu that blends Brazilian ingredients with international cooking techniques. The ambiance is elegant and ideal for a special night out, featuring live jazz music on select evenings.

Travel Advisor

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Did you like this guide? Reach out to customize and book your own experience. Or, just to chat about travel in general.

This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Brazil . For more travel tips, check out my guide, A Flavorful Journey Through Brazil’s Beloved Drinks: From Coffee to Caipirinhas.

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Exploring Brazil #1: The city of Recife and surroundings

Recife in Brazil: Travel Guide and Interesting Places

Is it already? Finally! I was waiting for my trip to that biggest country in South America for months to write my Brazil travel blog! I'm not regretting any day and penny spend there, as my adventure was amazing!

Let's start my Brazil travel guide by visiting the city of Recife with a great Old Town, Marco Zero Square, Sculptures at the waterfront, and Boa Viagem Beach. We will also visit great tourist attractions and interesting places like Francisco Brennand's Ceramic Workshop, Ricardo Brennand Institute, and New Jerusalem Theater. So let's get to it!

Recife Old Town

Recife Old Town (called also Recife Antigo) is the oldest part of the city, founded in 1537. The place was chosen because of its great place near the South Atlantic bay, so the huge port was created here. In 1837, the Recife became a strategic trading place and a capital of Pernambuco state.

If you want to visit the biggest tourist attractions in the city, you should start right here. It combines an excellent mix of history, culture, and entertainment like restaurants, bars, and cafes. Oh, and don't forget about the Carnival, that takes place in Recife every year. The city during Carnival changes a lot, with many themed ornamentations.

Marco Zero Square

Marco Zero Square is the main part of the Recife Old Town. You can find here a lot of old, colorful buildings from the colonial times. It's the best place to start visiting Old Town and to have a long wander. The whole square is full of colors and a great place for a photography.

The Marco Zero Square was founded by Portuguese settlers in the 16th century. You can also find here a small monument called Marco Zero (called also "Km 0") - it marks the place where the Portuguese founded Recife.

Sculpture Park at the Waterfront

The Sculpture Park can be found near the Recife Shopping Mall and it's the place where we can find 35 different sculptures in the green area of almost 19000 m2. It was opened in 1998.

There are many famous Brazilian artists that were working on the Sculpture Park in Recife: Augusto Ferrer, Francisco Brennand, Abelardo da Hora, and Marianne Peretti. All of them was chosen by Rogélia Peres, the architect who created this exhibition. The Sculpture Park in Recife is one of the biggest tourist attractions in the city and for sure a very interesting place full of art and culture.

Boa Viagem Beach

I cannot imagine visiting Brazil without swimming! If you going on a trip to the city, the best place you can do this is a Boa Viagem Beach in Recife. Well, not only I think this way, as this beach is one of the most visited beaches in Northeastern Brazil.

The Boa Viagem is the longest stretch of urbanized seafront in Brazil and it's more than 8 kilometers long. The water has the temperature about 25 °C.

Beware that the Boa Viagem Beach in Recife is plagued by tiger shark attacks that happens here sometimes. Well, not too many tourists or locals care.

Francisco Brennand Ceramic Workshop in Recife, Brazil

Francisco Brennand's Ceramic Workshop

Francisco Brennand was born in northern Brazil in 1927 in a rich family. His interesting to pottery and other kinds of art began very early. His father opened a pottery in Recife in 1917 and he started to work there when he was just a boy. He even traveled to Europe, Italy and Spain to search for the inspiration, based on such famous people as Gaudi or Picasso.

After he came back in 1971, his family pottery was on the verge of bankruptcy. To preserve that, he combined his love and talent to ceramics with an architect Roberto Brule Marx, which resulted in the creation of Francisco Brennand's Ceramic Workshop with beautiful gardens, reflecting pools, fountains, and temples.

Nowadays the Francisco Brennand's Ceramic Workshop is filled with hundreds of statues that he created, numerous amount of paintings and ceramics. Many of the gardens have Brennand’s work with ceramics and statues. The whole complex looks amazing, like nothing else in the world. The gardens and museums are open to the public whole week.

Ricardo Brennand Institute

The Ricardo Brennand Institute looks like a Tudor-style European castle and it's nothing strange because it was built by the Dutch people.It is a museum that holds South America's biggest collection of different kind of armor and weapons, like swords, maces, crossbows or daggers or a 27 full-plate armor. It takes us back to a time of medieval knights, and it was a world in which I immersed myself with great pleasure.

Not only weapons can be found here. Ricardo Brennand Institute is also a library that holds over 60 000 items, it's also the world's largest collection of paintings and drawings by the renowned New World landscape artist Frans Post.

Ricardo Brennand Institute was opened in 2002 and offered cultural education programs to the local community. It's opened from Tuesday to Sunday from 13:00 to 17:00.

New Jerusalem Theatre

The New Jerusalem Theater, located in a dusty region of Brejo da Madre de Deus is an open-air theater covering more than 24 acres of space and it looks like some kind of a medieval castle. The place is really huge, just imagine that the walls are 2.2 miles long and they have about 70 towers. All of this makes it the biggest open-air theater in the world.

The first play in the New Jerusalem Theater is dated in 1951 and the show was made only for friends and family that was playing different roles. This changed in 1963 when people from nearest town decided to build here a Jerusalem replica.

Nowadays 8 big plays (550 actors each) takes place in in the New Jerusalem Theater during the year, being watched by more than 8000 people per single show, mostly the Passion of Christ. Tourists that came here to see the play can stay in the inn inside the walls.

This is the end of my Recife travel guide about the city's interesting places and tourist attractions. Soon I will write on my travel blog other articles about my trips to other parts of Brazil.

Recife is a great city with so many great spots, like the Old Town, Francisco Brennand's Ceramic Workshop, New Jerusalem Theater, and Ricardo Brennand Institute. If you know other places, write me about them and I will try to describe them here. I hope you enjoyed this guide, if you have any questions about Recife or Brazil, feel free to leave me a comment.

Hey there! My name is Wojtek and I am very happy that you came to my travel blog. I've been traveling the world for a few good years now and I still want more. On my website I describe the adventures that have happened to me, you will also find here a collection of valuable tips for tourists and travelers. If you liked this article, be sure to leave a comment and read some more!

Read the next article in this series:

Brazil, unfortunately, has never seen me before, but we will try to catch up :) This text was translated automatically. Original text is below: Brazylia niestety jeszcze nigdy mnie nie widziała, ale postaramy się to nadrobić :)

This text was translated automatically. Original text is below: Warto, piekny, wielki i trochę dziki kraj. Planowaliśmy tę podróż latami, tanio i łatwo nie było, ale wspomnienia bezcenne! :-)

I was traveling to Brazil but unfortunately missed the city of Recife... Maybe next time, as I can see that you travel guide shows that there are a lot of interesting places in Recife!

Crap, I've been to Brazil several times, I even wrote some articles on my travel blog, but I was not in Recife, which is a pity. It looks like a fantastic city, especially the old town. This text was translated automatically. Original text is below: Kurcze, byłem w Brazylii kilka razy, nawet napisałem parę artykułów na moim blogu podrózniczym, ale w Recife nie byłem, a szkoda. Wygląda na fantastyczne miasto, szczególnie starówka.

We are going with my husband to Brazil in August, and after reading this travel article the city of Recife will undoubtedly be on our list! Interesting places, tourist attractions, nothing but to go and visit :-) This text was translated automatically. Original text is below: Wybieramy się z mężem do Brazylii w sierpniu, i po przeczytaniu tego artykułu podróżniczego miasto Recife bez wątpienia znajdzie się na naszej liście! Ciekawe miejsca, atrakcje turystyczne, nic tylko jechać i zwiedzać :-)

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Recife Safety: Am I Safe to Travel to Recife, Brazil in 2024?

Planning a trip to Brazil often leads to Recife, famed for its beaches, cultural heritage, and Carnaval. The main query remains: "Is Recife safe?"

Safety concerns are common among travelers, especially when venturing to new places. Recife, like any large city, has its share of safety issues, but it also offers a wealth of experiences that shouldn't be missed. Let's dive into what you need to know about staying safe in Recife, ensuring your trip is both enjoyable and secure.

Key Takeaways

Recife Offers Vibrant Culture but Has Safety Concerns: While Recife is celebrated for its beaches, cultural heritage, and Carnaval, travelers should be aware of safety issues. Recent crime rate fluctuations suggest parts of the city are safer than others, with efforts by local authorities to enhance security.
Tourist Areas are Generally Safer, But Precautions Are Necessary: Key tourist spots tend to be safer, but it's advisable to avoid flaunting valuables and stay vigilant, especially in crowded places to minimize risks of petty crimes.
Adherence to Safety Tips Can Enhance Your Recife Experience: Staying in well-lit areas at night, using licensed transportation, securing belongings, avoiding displays of wealth, and staying informed about local safety updates are critical measures for a safe visit.
Specific Neighborhoods Pose Higher Risks: Pina, Brasilia Teimosa, Coque, Santo Amaro, and Cabanga are identified as higher-risk areas due to elevated crime rates. Travelers are advised to exercise extra caution or avoid these locations.
Emergency Contacts are Vital for Tourists: Knowing critical emergency numbers for police (190), medical emergencies (192), and fire department (193), and having contact information for your country's consulate can significantly impact your preparedness for any situation in Recife.
Informed Travel is Safe Travel: Being well-informed about the local safety landscape and adhering to recommended precautions greatly increases the chances of a secure and enjoyable visit to Recife.

Crime Rates in Recife

When considering a visit to Recife, it's crucial to look at the numbers to understand the safety landscape. The city has seen varying degrees of crime over the years, but like any major city, it has areas that are safer than others.

In recent years, data has shown a mixed picture of safety in Recife. Violent crime rates , such as homicides, have seen fluctuations. For instance, notable efforts by local authorities have led to a reduction in crime in some parts of the city. However, it's essential to stay updated with the latest statistics and news.

Tourist areas tend to be safer, but it's always recommended to take precautions, such as not flaunting valuables and staying aware of your surroundings. Petty crimes like theft are more common in crowded places, and tourists can sometimes be targeted due to perceived wealth.

The bright side is that local law enforcement in Recife has been proactive in addressing safety concerns. Initiatives have been introduced to increase police presence in key areas, especially around tourist hotspots. These efforts aim to deter potential criminals and create a safer environment for both residents and visitors.

Understanding the nuances of crime rates in Recife requires looking beyond the headlines. While certain statistics can seem daunting, many visitors experience the city without incident, thanks to being well-informed and cautious. Remember, most trips to Recife are filled with beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and welcoming locals. Being vigilant and prepared is key to enjoying everything the city has to offer without undue stress over safety concerns.

Safety Tips for Travelers

When planning your trip to Recife, it's essential to stay informed and adopt safety measures to ensure your visit is as enjoyable and stress-free as possible. Here's how to keep safe in Recife while soaking up the vibrant culture and breathtaking views.

Stay in Well-Lit Areas at Night

Recife boasts a lively nightlife, but it's crucial to stick to well-lit, populated areas after dark. The most secure neighborhoods for evening outings include Boa Viagem and Pina. Venturing into poorly lit or secluded areas can increase your risk of encountering trouble.

Use Licensed Taxis or Ride-Sharing Apps

Transportation safety cannot be overstressed. Opt for licensed taxis or reputable ride-sharing apps when moving around the city. These services provide a safer, more reliable means of transportation, significantly reducing the risk of scams or more severe incidents.

Secure Your Belongings

Petty theft, including pickpocketing and bag snatching, is a concern in crowded places. Always keep your belongings secure and maintain a heightened awareness in busy areas such as markets, public transport hubs, and tourist spots.

Avoid Flashy Displays of Wealth

Drawing unnecessary attention can make you a target. Avoid wearing expensive jewelry or flashing large sums of money in public spaces. It's better to blend in with the crowd than to stand out as a potential target for thieves.

Stay Informed

Keep up to date with local news and safety alerts during your stay. Knowledge of any potential unrest or criminal activity in the area can help you avoid risky situations.

By following these safety tips, you'll be better equipped to enjoy all that Recife has to offer while minimizing the risk to your personal safety. Remember, awareness and preparation are your best tools for a safe and memorable visit.

Areas to Avoid

When planning your trip to Recife, knowing which areas to steer clear of can significantly enhance your safety. Certain neighborhoods are notorious for higher levels of crime , including petty theft and more serious offenses. Focused awareness and caution in these specific areas can provide a safer experience.

Pina and Brasilia Teimosa are neighborhoods located close to the touristy beachfront but have a reputation for higher crime rates. Evening outings, especially if you're thinking of strolling on the beach, should be reconsidered. Opt instead for well-frequented, well-lit areas, even if it means missing out on what might seem like a serene beach walk.

Coque , situated inland, is another area where visitors should exercise caution. It's a less visited part of Recife, and for a good reason: it has one of the higher crime rates in the city. Sticking to the more traveled parts of Recife, especially if you're unfamiliar with the local landscape, is wise.

Visitors should also be wary of Santo Amaro and Cabanga . These areas have seen an uptick in criminal activity, especially after dark. The allure of exploring every part of a city can be strong, but it's crucial to prioritize your safety above the thrill of discovery.

Statistics show that the safety concern in certain neighborhoods stems from both petty crimes like pickpocketing and more severe crimes. For instance, the local police department's reports highlight an increase in theft and assault cases in these highlighted areas over the past year.

Remember, your safety starts with staying informed and making smart decisions about where to go and what times to venture out. Stick to recommended areas, use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps, and always keep your belongings secure to enjoy everything Recife has to offer.

Emergency Contacts

When you're exploring Recife, knowing who to call in an emergency can give you peace of mind. Whether it's a minor incident or a situation requiring immediate law enforcement, having the right numbers at your fingertips is crucial.

Essential Numbers to Keep Handy

In Brazil, different services have distinct emergency numbers. Unlike some countries with a single number for all emergencies, Brazil’s system demands you remember a few:

Police: Dial 190 for civil police intervention in cases of theft, assault, or any situation requiring immediate police attention.
Ambulance and Medical Emergencies: For medical assistance, 192 will connect you with ambulances and emergency health services.
Fire Department: In case of fire or rescue operations, 193 is the number to call.

Keep these numbers in your phone or jot them down in a place easily accessible, so you're prepared no matter what happens.

Locating the Nearest Consulate

If you're from abroad, locating your country's consulate within Recife will be invaluable during emergencies, especially for lost passports or legal aid. Most consulates offer emergency contact numbers for their citizens, providing an extra layer of security and assistance.

Utilizing Local Help

Recife’s municipal government and tourism offices also provide assistance to visitors encountering difficulties. They can offer guidance on medical facilities, translate in critical situations, or help navigate the city's bureaucracy in case of an incident.

By keeping these essential contacts handy, you'll navigate Recife with confidence, knowing help is just a call away should you need it.

Armed with the right emergency contacts and knowledge of local support systems, you're set to explore Recife with confidence. Remember, having these vital numbers at your fingertips can make all the difference in handling unexpected situations smoothly. Whether it's needing immediate medical attention or seeking assistance from your country's consulate, you're never alone. Recife's municipal government and tourism offices are also ready to lend a helping hand, ensuring your visit is as enjoyable as it is safe. So pack your bags, charge your phone, and embark on your Recife adventure knowing you're well-prepared for whatever comes your way.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the emergency numbers in recife for travelers.

The essential emergency numbers in Recife for travelers are police services (190), ambulance and medical emergencies (192), and the fire department (193). It's crucial to keep these numbers accessible during your stay.

Why is it important to locate my country's consulate in Recife?

Locating your country's consulate in Recife is important for additional support during emergencies, such as if you lose your passport or require legal aid. The consulate can provide vital assistance and guidance to ensure your safety and well-being.

Can Recife's municipal government and tourism offices help me during emergencies?

Yes, Recife's municipal government and tourism offices can offer assistance during emergencies. They can provide guidance on medical facilities, help navigate bureaucratic processes, and offer general support to ensure your visit is safe and enjoyable.

How can I ensure I have quick access to emergency numbers in Recife?

To ensure quick access to emergency numbers in Recife, you can save them in your phone or keep a written note with you at all times. Additionally, informing your travel companions about these numbers can be beneficial for collective safety.

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Is Recife Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

Brazil : Safety by City

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Recife is the capital of Pernambuco, is one of the largest essential cities on the northeastern coast of Brazil.

This lively capital, initially founded by Dutch colonizers, is brimming with a vibrant culture, a delightful old town.

There are many beautiful beaches, but many of them have a lot of sharks.

Recife is on the Atlantic coast, at the mouth of the Capibaribe, Beberibe, and Jordão Rivers, close to the easternmost point of the Americas.

Travelers come here to enjoy the beautiful beaches, see the unique architecture of the city, historic churches, many museums, and other historical buildings.

Warnings & Dangers in Recife

OVERALL RISK: HIGH

The city is full of crime and crime. To be safe here, you need to be always on the alert. special security measures must also be taken, do not carry valuables and cash, avoid the streets of Recife after sunset.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM

It is not safe to travel in public transportation in Recife, for example, on a bus, especially at night. The risk of being mugged is high. Use a licensed taxi to get around the city. Especially at night.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: HIGH

Pickpocketing is the most significant risk for tourists in Recife. Cleaning your pockets and bag snatchers all around - that what you can expect from the city most. Stay alert of your surroundings and the people around you. Do not walk in unlit city streets.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW

The region is prone to droughts - and as a result - to forest fires. But the likelihood of this is low. Floods and landslides are also possible here. Examine the weather and the current situation for natural disasters before you travel here.

MUGGING RISK: HIGH

Recife is famous for its robberies. Armed robberies and reprisals against tourists are not uncommon here. Be extremely vigilant; move around the city only in groups, and avoid the city center at night. In the event of an attack, give the criminals what they demand and contact the police.

TERRORISM RISK: LOW

Even though in the history of Brasilia, there were no terrorist attacks, the proximity to Venezuela and its conflicts makes it possible to attack the capital of Brazil. Besides, like any capital, the city is especially attractive to terrorists. Be on the alert and avoid political demonstrations.

SCAMS RISK: HIGH

Most fraud involves attempting to trick tourists. It can be taxi drivers with a taximeter turned off, parking attendants offering an illegally paid parking place, prostitutes who can add sleeping pills to your drink to rob, credit card skimming (malware to infect point of sales (POS) terminals to capture your card's data and override any PIN.), fake products at low prices. Beware of these scams, and you will be fine.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: MEDIUM

Women are not recommended to travel to Recife alone; the risk of getting into trouble is very high. It is better to move around in a group and be sure to take a taxi if you return to the hotel late at night. In a cab, take a back seat to avoid the driver's unwanted harassment.

So... How Safe Is Recife Really?

Recife is a very unsafe city, probably one of the most treacherous in Brazil.

The crime rate here is very high.

The main problems are violent crimes such as assault and armed robbery, high levels of corruption, and drug trafficking.

Robberies on streets and buses are relatively common.

You can have a great time in Recife, but you need to always be on the lookout for your surroundings.

Look around, do not leave things unattended, do not get involved in street disputes, do not walk around the city at night, and alone – these are the rules that are mandatory in this city to remain safe.

While entering or leaving Olinda at dusk or dawn, you have an elevated risk of being ambushed.

Taxis are recommended.

Beware of the unlicensed guides.

Make sure you have the travel itinerary planned out and a price (including meals, fuel, etc.) agreed upon before starting.

Watch out for shark warnings before entering the water at the Boa Viagem beach.

Women traveling alone in a taxi are advised to sit in the back seat to avoid harassment from the driver.

Avoid Recife’s downtown on Sundays.

At that time, the streets are deserted all day long and are very unsafe.

Consider taking a tour to a beach instead.

How Does Recife Compare?
Useful Information

Visitors to Brazil must obtain a visa from one of the Brazilian diplomatic missions unless they come from one of the visa-exempt countries. Visas are not required for airport transit, from any nationality, as long as the traveler does not leave the international transit area. A valid passport is a must.

The Brazilian real is the official currency of Brazil since 1994. It is subdivided into 100 centavos. It has a sign: R$ and code: BRL. The Brazilian real is the nineteenth most traded currency in the world by value.

The best time to visit Recife goes from September to February, when it rains less and the humidity is lower. Seawater temperatures remain stable all over the year: around 26.5º minimum in August to 29ºC maximum in April-May.

Recife/Guararapes–Gilberto Freyre International Airport is the airport serving Recife, Brazil. It located 12 km from the city center. Some of its facilities are shared with the Recife Air Force Base of the Brazilian Air Force.

Travel Insurance

The travel insurance policy is a must when visiting a foreign country. Make sure you got it before starting your journey, the customs officer may ask for it.

Recife Weather Averages (Temperatures)

Average High/Low Temperature

Brazil - Safety by City

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3 Reviews on Recife

Extremely impoverished place.

Go to Recife!!!

Recife is a beautiful city, full of culture, with a rich gastronomy and paradisiacal beaches. You need to take the necessary precautions as in any Latin American city and avoid some risky situations. Enjoy 🙂

More dangerous than expected

Too bad i didn’t read but to go to downtown Recife on Sunday. There was an attempt to rob me. Will be a story to tell for years to come and a city never to return to.

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Article Contents

Recife : Safety by City
Overall Risk
Transport & Taxis Risk
Pickpockets Risk
Natural Disasters Risk
Mugging Risk
Terrorism Risk
Women Travelers Risk
Weather Averages (Temperatures)
User Reviews
Share Your Experience

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Fringed by reefs and lined by sugar-soft sands, the great sprawling capital of Pernambuco state is a place to wander historic colonial centers and crank up the sunbathing time. But, before you get a-booking and excited for the endless rays: Is Recife, Brazil, safe?

That’s what this guide is here to answer. It will run through the ins and outs of traveling to Recife to see how safe it is compared to the other famous beach escapes of the Brazil east coast – Fortaleza, Natal. The aim is to help you make a choice on whether it’s the salt-washed metropolis for you, or if somewhere else might be better suited.

Along the way, we’ll run through the general levels of crime in Recife, compare it to a few other spots for context, and offer some insights into the nuanced safety scene of the city. We’ll also mull over whether it’s safe for solo female travelers and offer some helpful safety tips for those who do decide to head this way during their Brazil adventure.

Table of Contents

Is Recife, Brazil, safe in 2022?

We hate to say this, but the stats aren’t good. Recife is up there with the most dangerous cities in Brazil if you check the numbers. Numbeo lists it as just about the same as Rio for increasing crime, worse for overall crime rates (93.37 compared to Rio’s 90.68), and worse for the risk of being caught up in violent crimes and robberies (91.49 compared to Rio’s 90.50). Perhaps most strikingly, Recife is still up there in the top seven most deadly cities in the country, with a 2019 homicide rate of 35.55 per 100,000 head of population.

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Not good. Well…not so fast. It’s certainly worth saying that millions of travelers – both Brazilian and international – come here every year, especially during carnival. More importantly, the vast majority of their trips go fine. On top of that, things seem to be improving in Recife. The murder rate was a whopping 90+ per 100k head of population back in 2008, so it’s dropped in the interim by almost two thirds. Oh, and the cities of Natal and Salvador (Recife’s main rivals as east-coast beach hubs) have worse rates of homicide, so this is actually the safer pick in the region.

What’s important is that you come to Recife in the knowledge that there are certainly risks. The town stands out among others in Brazil for its gang violence and its murder rate, and there’s always the chance that travelers can get caught up in that. The same goes for the usual travel worries – scams, theft, natural disasters. However, you can help reduce the risk of something going wrong by planning ahead properly, being aware, staying in the right places, and always keeping your wits about you.

Let’s take a closer look at the specific dangers that await in Recife, Brazil…

Violent crimes and gang crime in Recife

Perhaps the biggest worry of all for would-be travelers to Brazil is the risk of getting caught up in violent crime. It’s well-documented that this occurs frequently in Rio, where tourists are routinely warned off heading into certain favelas where the gangs basically rule the roost. It’s the same in Recife – stick to the more-visited corners of town and witnessing this sort of stuff becomes much less likely.

There’s no use pretending that it doesn’t happen, though. It does. How else could a city clock up a homicide rate that’s over 30 people per 100,000 of population, enough to put it among the 45 most deadly cities on the planet? There have also been recent reports that the drug cartels in operation across Pernambuco state and the northeast coastal region more generally have been thriving in recent years , which is only a hint of potentially more violent crime to follow.

Again, though, it’s important to keep this in perspective. The murder rate in Recife still remains less than what it is in Baltimore or Cape Town, but it’s rare that people would completely change their travel plans to the Eastern Seaboard or the Western Cape because of it. The crucial thing is that you’re aware that it happens and you’re able to make an informed decision as to whether to go or not.

Other crimes and human-related risks in Recife

Of course, it’s not just the hardcore violent crimes that could affect your holiday to Recife. There’s all manner of other things that could happen here. The stats show that the risk of auto theft is particularly bad (Numbeo lists it as 73.5, which is “high”), so know that if you’re looking to rent a car, and there’s a high rate of police and official corruption in the town, which is actually a big issue across the whole of Brazil more generally.

Recife is also prone to its political upheavals. The last example of that was pretty recent, when crowds of people took to the streets to protest against President Jair Bolsonaro’s handling of the COVID pandemic. They were swiftly met with crackdowns that involved flashbangs, crowd control, and even rubber bullets. Our advice? Steer clear of any political gatherings or protests that might be happening when you’re in town.

You should also be wary of common scams while in Recife. While these are rarely a threat to your health or wellbeing, they can ruin a holiday and leave you totally out of pocket. Common scam ploys in the town include:

The broken camera scam – If someone hands you a camera and asks you to take their picture, don’t! We’re not being anti-social here, but a common scam is to try and charge visitors for “breaking” a camera.
Inflated bar tabs – Don’t accept the invite of anyone who wants to suddenly go for a drink. A known scam in Recife is when people are coerced into paying ridiculously inflated bills for just a couple of beers.
Taxi scams – You can’t escape taxi scams anywhere on the planet but they are particularly bad in Recife where drivers will often go the wrong way from A to B to increase the price or simply charge way too much. Uber is a good alternative and now operates in Recife but agreeing a set price you’re happy with beforehand is better practice.

Is Recife safe for solo female travelers?

We’d stop short of saying that NO female travelers should consider going to Recife. The town is a popular beach hotspot and has an enthralling old town area. There’s no reason why they should be out of bounds simply because you’re a lone lady backpacker. However, we do think it’s important to be aware of the heightened risks if you do decide to come to Recife, and Brazil more generally, without any company and as a woman.

We’d recommend staying in the more well-to-do parts of the town. The resorts of Porto de Galina or the UNESCO town of Olinda are particularly good choices. They aren’t in Recife itself but close enough to offer easy access. However, they are more tourist-orientated so come with smaller risks of violent crime. On top of that, never head out alone after dark and avoid talking to strangers, especially in bars and nightlife settings.

Shark attacks in Recife

Is Recife, Brazil, safe from sharks ? Sadly, no. In fact, the town is infamous as one of the great shark hotspots of the South American Atlantic coast. There have been a whopping 60+ recorded attacks on humans in the shoreline to the north and south of Recife in total, 50% of which turned out to be fatal to the victim. Not good. More pertinently, there are claims that things are getting worse because of increasing tourism and port expansions.

It’s thought that most shark attacks in Recife are down to bull sharks and tiger sharks. They are both considered among to the most aggressive of all, and capable of swimming close to shore and near to the sand-bottomed beaches that are otherwise such a joy. There are now efforts underway to create artificial reefs that should help reduce the influx of sharks to the main bays, however you should always pay attention to shark warnings and never swim too deep.

Safety tips for Recife, Brazil

Here are our top five safety tips for Recife, Brazil. Their aim? To reduce the risk of all the major worries about travel to this coastal city, whether that’s violent crime or shark attacks on the beaches.

Stay in Olinda – Truth is that most travelers skip Recife all together in favor of the UNESCO World Heritage town of Olinda . It’s a gorgeous colonial settlement that dates from the 1500s only 20 minutes from the downtown of Recife, but it’s a whole load safer and has some seriously fantastic hotels that ooze luxury.
Never go out alone – The gangs and would-be scammers of Recife see solo travelers as a bit of a target. That’s why we’d say wait to go out as a group and avoid going out at night altogether if you do happen to be alone.
Pay attention to warnings and lifeguards – The Recife beaches are plagued by shark attacks, so it’s very important to pay attention to any warnings present on the beach and always listen to lifeguards.
Don’t do drugs – The drug trade is the single biggest culprit of violent crime in Recife. Avoid it completely by not being tempted by the wares.
Don’t show off valuables – This is a common tip for travelers heading anywhere with less-than-reassuring crime stats. Don’t show off gold chains or Rolex watches or anything of the sort. All it will do is make you more of a target for thieves

Is Recife, Brazil, safe?

Is Recife, Brazil, safe? Actually, it’s among the 45 most dangerous cities on the planet if you look at murder rates and crime stats, so things aren’t ideal for would-be travelers. That said, thousands of trips happen here without a single hitch every year, though we would recommend following some key safety tips and being aware of the heightened risk of crime and robbery.

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Find cheap flights to Recife from $266

This is the cheapest one-way flight price found by a kayak user in the last 72 hours by searching for a flight to recife departing on 9/21. fares are subject to change and may not be available on all flights or dates of travel. click the price to replicate the search for this deal., search hundreds of travel sites at once for deals on flights to recife.

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The flight route Fort Lauderdale to Recife was the most popular route on KAYAK over the last 3 days. A return flight could be found for $630. Also in the last 3 days, Orlando was the most budget-friendly place to find a flight to Recife with one-way tickets at $266 and $578 round-trip.

How much is a flight to Recife?

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Recife Airport has a parking lot with plenty of parking space for travelers. The parking lot, which can accommodate more than 2,000 vehicles, is located outside the airport terminal.

Can I get accommodation at Recife Airport?

If you prefer taking advantage of the convenience that comes with spending the night at Recife Airport, especially if you have an early morning flight, you can stay at the Siesta Box. These cozy cabins, located on the airside, are accessible for around $9.79 for 1h and approximately $30.23 for 6h.

Are car rental services available at Recife Airport?

You can rent a vehicle at Recife Airport if you seek the flexibility and convenience that comes with driving yourself around the city. There are multiple local and international car rental agencies, including Unidas, Localiza, Avis, Movida, and Hertz, located on the ground floor of the terminal.

Does Recife Airport have amenities for disabled travelers?

Disabled travelers can access the airport wheelchairs and get wheelchair assistance upon request through their respective airlines. The airport also has portable lifts and ramps to ensure that those in wheelchairs can move around the airport efficiently.

Can I exchange currency at Recife Airport?

Recife Airport offers currency exchange services. There are two currency exchange companies with counters on the ground floor for all the passengers who need this service.

How far is Recife from central Recife?

Central Recife is 6 miles away from Recife.

What is the name of Recife’s airport?

There is only 1 airport in Recife, called Recife (REC). It can also be referred to as Guararapes Intl or Recife/Guararapes–Gilberto Freyre Intl.

On average, a flight to Recife costs $478. The cheapest price found on KAYAK in the last 2 weeks cost $214 and departed from Fort Lauderdale Airport.

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Top tips for finding cheap flights to Recife

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The Recife buses are the most economical transportation means from the airport to Recife. Travelers will find the buses outside terminal 1. The buses take around 30min to travel to the city center, although the time varies depending on traffic. These buses charge about $0.81 for a one-way trip. You can get to the city center faster if you take a taxi. Taxis take around 20min to reach downtown Recife and charge about $7.
You can wait for your flight in comfort and tranquility at Recife Airport’s Sala VIP Luck Viagens lounge located in the domestic terminal near gate 5. Travelers who possess premium tickets can access this modern lounge. Travelers on international flights can relax and unwind in the cozy Proair VIP Lounge in the international terminal near gate 16.
If you would like to send mail or last-minute postcards to friends or family, Recife Airport (REC) has a post office located on the ground floor of the terminal building.
You can fly into Recife Airport if your destination is Olinda, located approximately 15.3km away, Camaragibe, located about 11.9 miles away, or Jaboatao, located approximately 11 miles away from the bustling airport.
If you need help planning your trip in and around Recife upon landing at Recife Airport, head over to the travel agencies. You will find several travel agencies, including Brasluso, Pontual, Nassau Viagens e Turismo and Mônaco Turismo, on the arrivals floor.
If you need medication while at Recife Airport, you can get some from the airport’s pharmacy. The pharmacy is located on the first floor.
If you get hungry while waiting for your flight, you can have a snack or fast food at any of the food stalls on the first floor on the airside or landside.

Prefer to fly non-stop to Recife Guararapes Intl?

Find which airlines fly direct to Guararapes Intl, which days they fly and book direct flights.

Nonstop departures

United States to Recife Guararapes Intl

Aerolineas Argentinas, Aeromexico, Air Canada, +24 more

Aerolineas Argentinas, Aeromexico, +25 more

Aerolineas Argentinas, Aeromexico, Air Canada, +26 more

Aerolineas Argentinas, Aeromexico, +27 more

Aerolineas Argentinas, Aeromexico, Air Canada, +25 more

Aerolineas Argentinas, Aeromexico, +26 more

Nonstop returns

Recife Guararapes Intl to United States

Top 5 airlines flying to recife.

Tight and not so comfortable business class seats . Crew below average. Very formal, no smiles, and kind of confused when serving meals. AZUL used to be much better on all above subjects. That's is what monopoly does to its customers.

When you buy your ticket, there is a message for a free cabin luggage and a bag. While boarding, they push you to dispatch you hand luggage. When you enter in the plane, you realize that the place to accommodate the hand luggage is empty. In the arriving, you take a long time waiting for your hand luggage which should fly in the cabin.

No entertainment available on this flight. Only crackers and juice were served too.

Pontualidade continua sendo o ponto forte da Azul. Quando ela não desmarca o vôo, é claro. Na ida foi tudo bonitinho: tv, wi-fi... Na volta eqtos não funcionavam. Importante é chegar bem.

Por cinco minutos (55 min antes da decolagem) fui impedido de entregar a bagagem pois o check-in estava "finalizado ". Tive que ir de Viracopos para Congonhas. Após embarcar aguardamos por mais de uma hora de atraso para decolar, ao inves de chegar às 9h, cheguei às 16h no RJ, perdendo o evento que era às 15h.

Não teve viagem alguma, a 123 milhas faliu e eu desisti da viagem.

Um vôo de mais de 4 horas e não tem nada de entretenimento

I was surprised that someone of the crew can speak French, my mother tongue

All the service was very good. The only thing was that the flight was delayed. We didn't miss the connection, but other passangers were about to.

We only had 1hr connecting in Ft Lauderdale. Kayak should not have allowed this short a connection time, as FLL requires a change of terminal (exit the airport and get on a bus), so we missed our connecting flight home to San Diego.

West Jet has a horrible boarding process and the seats have no cushion.

Everything went smoothly. I didn’t like that when I booked in the main cabin my wife and I weren’t seated together. One would think when booking on an option that allows picking your seat. They would put you and your travel partner together. Had to call to get it sorted. They did fix.

The gate area was incredibly short staffed, with one representative manning 4-5 flights, which caused a 3 hr delay in boarding even though the plane was all ready to leave. Other flights also were delayed because of this. The flight crew was awesome and I feel bad for the only gate worker on call, but Delta needs to hire more employees.

Very frustrated with boarding gate crew. She announced the plane was small and they would be limiting us to one item to carry on. Not a problem for me as I understand the tiny planes have limited space!! Not the case here! It was a rather large plane and had plenty of room for bags! So because I don’t want to be one of “those people” who ignores the request to check a carry on I did so asking if I would be able to pick it up at the bottom of the ramp on arrival in Knoxville to which she responded “yes”! Then I watched as every other passenger held onto their 2 items and boarded!! Then when we arrived in Knoxville our 2 carry ons had been put with all the other luggage and we had to go to baggage pick up and wait for all the big checked bags to come off the carousel! So she lied!! Frustrating. Next time I won’t be so nice!

It was a good experience except when boarding a female flight attendant did not go out of her way to assist my teenage daughters in finding space for their carry-ons after their compartments were full.

On time departure, smooth trip, flight attendant told through passengers the gate we would arrive at and the gate our outbound flight was departing from. Early arrival

Checking in at the airport the agent only booked the first keg of my trip and had my checked luggage going to the airport with a layover! Never was issued a boarding pass for the second leg or received sticker fir my checked bag. All was well in the end! Delta agents helped to resolve the situation!!!

Delayed due to an ill passenger after loading. Not preventable on Delta's part. Was in first class. The seats are becoming worn and detaching from their velcro attachments. Only got snacks on flight. The attendant was not the friendliest.

I would fly again the whole experience was great. The only feed back I can give that they don't do that American Airlines does is the crew there is more humorous with boarding and thank their passengers. It makes it more fun to fly with them. I would however fly Delta again.

Big plane, long flight, absolutely no leg room and basically non existent air! I am 5”4’ and always travel Main Cabin, I was miserable on this plane and could barely move when we arrived in Cabo due to the cramped leg area!

Everything was as you would expect in coach - fine. Flight was close to on time.

No air in the middle rows. Had a hard time breathing. Was dying of heat.

Horrific checkin procedure with neither Delta nor Latam figuring out how to check me in. 4 hrs on customer support with both and both airlines pointing to each other who should do checking. I was not checked in until morning of flight, which for international flight is concerning.

It was a good experience, the flight was a little too long & the food was ok

the flight from Boston to Curitiba was on time actually 30 minutes earlier. latam was not able to unload the luggage for custom checkup in Sao Paulo ii took two and half hours . i missed the flight to Curitiba spend the night in hotel and then flying in the morning to Curitiba

Tough flight with turbulence… I was told by a fellow passenger that it is common. Nonetheless, very stressful. Cordial staff.

Very unprofessional staff in the checking and boarding. There was no space for my carry-on bag, which is understandable for a full flight. However, the rudeness in answering my questions about my bag were unnecessary. Shaming and threatening a passenger to be left behind was something I had never experienced (I am 57 years old and a Skymiles member) before. At a minimum, the boarding staff (Krystal Mejia and her manager Dee) should undergo further training on cultural sensitivity and professional skills on speaking with passengers. Krystal, just because I have dark hair and “look Latina” does not mean I can speak Spanish. Your assumption and threatening words until the very ending of my boarding (door of the airplane) were not only unnecessary and stressful but something that a passenger should not experience before boarding.

The flight was overbooked and the solution gave was unrespctful. I arrived 4 hour in advance in the airport and only after 2hous was possible suggest a different ticket with another company LATAM, I have accepted, but when I was checking in at LATAM the tickets was issued without luggage, what it is absurd since I have bought my tickets including it since the beginning. Due to the timing for the next flight was not possible return to Avianca to claim due to the distance between Both companies Avianca and Latam since were located in different terminals. I have insiste to the crew of Latam to call Avianca to solve it, but they could help they were alleging that only paying a thousand pesos Mexicans ($1,000 MXN) to dispatch my luggage would be accepted and I have no money at all. So I had to beg for others passagens, it was an humiliating to exchange luggage with who was platinum in order to return back the luggage in the connection airport in Brazil (GRU). I have no clue that a judicial process would be taken from my side due the lots of stress in sequence by the non professional treatment with a passenger that was just following everything said by Avianca.. Long hours of waiting until next flight and only arrive at final destine in 6hs later..

The flight from PDX to New York was cancelled, and I got rebooked one day later. Because of this I missed a meeting at my final destination, EZE. I now need to stay longer in Argentina, and was told the tariff difference was $780 plus $150 penalty! I am not using my return ticket, and have purchased a one way ticket EZE-PDX for $606 with another airline. SHAMEFUL

Very bad. Boarding was a caos and pick up luggage took more than an hour. There was no entertainment on board.

La aeronave estaba averiada, 4 horas adentro con diferentes problemas técnicos pero igual querían volar.

Evifente que o melhor seria a Hol cumprir com ssua parte! Vendeu voo dirto Caxias do Sul a Florianópolis e depois alterou, fizemos voo Cxs. Congonhas, com conexão, alem de um atrazo, mais de 1:20 min. Está errado e isso é vender uma coisa e entregar outra...

The plane was fine and the crew was very nice. Even though we bought our tickets eight months in advance and had seats reserved, they changed our seats. Instead of being in seats 7E and 7F, we were separated and put in two middle seats away from each other. When checking in, the attendant put us in an exit row together, but 10 rows back from where we had reserved. But you have to be younger than 60 to be in an exit row. So when everyone else boarded we were moved to last row 33, right next to bathrooms.

Fiquei de pé um tempão para embarcar. Apesar de ser grupo 1 e ter prioridade e cadeira premium.Ficamos retidoa e os outros grupos entraram antes... Vai entender este método uruguaio de embarque. Voo sem internet e tv. Voo em aviões mais velhos da gol que tem esta facilodade. Economia??? Pior foi o desembarque. De ônibus e vários fingers libres, vai entender

Alimentação mto escassa. Pelo menos deveria dar a opção de comprar e o Wi-Fi pago.

A Gol precisa aprender comfazer desembarque. Está anos luz atrás em organização. Os comissários são muito atrapalhados.

Os passageiros ainda não estão habituados a respeitar o embarque por grupos, que é a melhor maneira de embarque, na minha opinião. Então faltou pulso para impor a regra de embarque e desembarque às pessoas.

Kiwi service was terrible they actually didnt make the reservation and their system showed that the reservation eas complete so I had to buy a ticket in the front desk at the moment at and exorbitant price.

A Gol melhorou muito desde a última viagem que fiz, muito bom, aeronaves bem conservadas, tripulação cordial. Gostei.

Left from gate 30 minutes before flight. Never been late to a flight ever. It says 15 minutes before explicitly on the ticket.

I like the boarding process, it was fast. The seat doesn’t have a TV for a long flight and food wasn’t served, just snacks.

Use planes with TVs on flights over 4 hours. The free entertainment was a cheap in between solution for a very long flight that you don't even bother providing meals or decent snacks.

Even though we left CMI late, we mostly made up the time.

Delayed almost 4 hours for a 45 minute flight with no explanation.

Again, multiple delays and I eventually just canceled and drove!

Great crew. Very comfortable business seats with nice bedding. Good food. We were delayed to let late passengers on the flight, but otherwise great experience.

Great crew. We were delayed so that late passengers could get on the flight. Love the bedding in business class. Good food. Great experience.

The CX617 from HK to BKK was delayed more than 1.5 hours.

Horrible - they lied to me about baggage & boarding, even though I specifically spoke to their agents the day before my flight about my issue. When I showed up they did not let me board and stranded me at my airport until I bought a new flight with money I did not have to spend.

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Brazil Travel Advisory

Travel advisory october 19, 2023, brazil - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with updates to Country Summary.

Exercise increased caution in Brazil due to crime . Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Do not travel to:

Any areas within 150 km/100 miles of Brazil’s land borders with Venezuela, Colombia, Peru, Bolivia, Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana, and Paraguay due to crime . (Note: This does not apply to the Foz do Iguacu National Park or Pantanal National Park.)
Informal housing developments (commonly referred to in Brazil as favelas, vilas, comunidades, and/or conglomerados) at any time of day due to crime (see additional information below).
Brasilia’s administrative regions (commonly known as “satellite cities”) of Ceilandia, Santa Maria, Sao Sebastiao, and Paranoa during non-daylight hours due to crime (see additional information below).

Country Summary: Violent crime, such as murder, armed robbery, and carjacking, is common in urban areas, day and night. Gang activity and organized crime is widespread. Assaults, including with sedatives and drugs placed in drinks, are common. U.S. government personnel are discouraged from using municipal buses in all parts of Brazil due to an elevated risk of robbery and assault at any time of day, and especially at night.

If you decide to travel to Brazil:

Be aware of your surroundings.
Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
Do not accept food or drinks from strangers.
Use caution when walking or driving at night.
Avoid going to bars or nightclubs alone.
Avoid walking on beaches after dark.
Do not display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches or jewelry.
Be extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs.
Use caution at, or going to, major transportation centers or on public transportation, especially at night. Passengers face an elevated risk of robbery or assault using public, municipal bus transportation throughout Brazil.
Use increased caution when hiking in isolated areas.
Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter .
Review the Country Security Report for Brazil.
Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist .
Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.

International Borders – Level 4: Do Not Travel

U.S. government personnel are not permitted to travel to areas within 150 km/100 miles of the international land borders with Venezuela, Colombia, Peru, Bolivia, Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana, and Paraguay without advance approval from security officials due to crime. Travel to the Foz do Iguacu National Park and Pantanal National Park is permitted.

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas .

Informal Housing Developments (commonly known as “Favelas”) – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Do not travel to informal housing developments (commonly referred to in Brazil as favelas, vilas, comunidades, and/or conglomerados), even on a guided tour.  Neither the tour companies nor the police can guarantee your safety when entering these communities.  Even in these communities that the police or local governments deem safe, the situation can change quickly and without notice.  While some informal housing developments have clear boundaries or gates, or even names such as “favela”, “vila”, “comunidade”, or “conglomerado”, other such developments may be less obvious, and may be identified by crowded quarters, poorer conditions, and/or irregular construction.  In addition, exercise caution in areas surrounding these communities, as occasionally, inter-gang fighting and confrontations with police move beyond the confines of these communities.  Except under limited circumstances and with advance approval, U.S. government personnel are not permitted to enter any informal housing developments in Brazil. Read the Safety and Security Section on the  country information page  and consult the maps on the Embassy’s website for further information regarding favelas.

Visit our website for Travel High-Risk Areas .

Brasilia’s Administrative Regions (commonly known as “Satellite Cities”) – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Without advance approval from security officials, U.S. government personnel are not permitted to travel to Brasilia’s Administrative Regions of Ceilandia, Santa Maria, Sao Sebastiao, and Paranoa between the hours of 6:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. (non-daylight hours) due to crime.

Travel Advisory Levels

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Brazil Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

Packing List

After Your Trip

Be aware of current health issues in Brazil. Learn how to protect yourself.

Level 1 Practice Usual Precautions

Updated Oropouche Fever in South America April 24, 2024 There are outbreaks of Oropouche fever in parts of Brazil, Bolivia, and Peru. Travelers to affected areas should take steps to avoid bug bites. Destination List: Bolivia, Brazil, Peru
Dengue in the Americas April 18, 2024 Dengue is a risk in many parts of Central and South America, Mexico, and the Caribbean. Some countries are reporting increased numbers of cases of the disease. Travelers to the Americas can protect themselves by preventing mosquito bites. Destination List: Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, including the Galápagos Islands, French Guiana (France), Guadeloupe, Guatemala, Martinique (France), Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Turks and Caicos Islands (U.K.), Uruguay

⇧ Top

Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

Chickenpox (Varicella)
Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
Flu (influenza)
Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see Your COVID-19 Vaccination for more information.

COVID-19 vaccine

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Brazil.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to Brazil. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to Brazil.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

CDC recommends that travelers going to certain areas of Brazil take prescription medicine to prevent malaria. Depending on the medicine you take, you will need to start taking this medicine multiple days before your trip, as well as during and after your trip. Talk to your doctor about which malaria medication you should take.

Find country-specific information about malaria.

Malaria - CDC Yellow Book

Considerations when choosing a drug for malaria prophylaxis (CDC Yellow Book)

Malaria information for Brazil.

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Rabid dogs are commonly found in Brazil. However, if you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other mammal while in Brazil, rabies treatment is often available.

Consider rabies vaccination before your trip if your activities mean you will be around dogs or wildlife.

Travelers more likely to encounter rabid animals include

Campers, adventure travelers, or cave explorers (spelunkers)
Veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers handling animal specimens
Visitors to rural areas

Since children are more likely to be bitten or scratched by a dog or other animals, consider rabies vaccination for children traveling to Brazil.

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

Yellow Fever

Recommended for travelers ≥9 months old going to the states of Acre, Amapá, Amazonas, Distrito Federal (including the capital city, Brasília), Espírito Santo,* Goiás, Maranhão, Mato Grosso, Mato Grosso do Sul, Minas Gerais, Pará, Paraná,* Piauí, Rio de Janeiro (including the city of Rio de Janeiro and all coastal islands),* Rio Grande do Sul,* Rondônia, Roraima, Santa Catarina,* São Paulo (including the city of São Paulo and all coastal islands),* Tocantins, and designated areas of Bahia*. Vaccination is also recommended for travelers going to Iguaçu Falls. Not recommended for travel limited to any areas not listed above, including the cities of Fortaleza and Recife *In 2017, in response to a large YF outbreak in multiple eastern states, CDC expanded its vaccination recommendations for travelers going to Brazil. The expanded YF vaccination recommendations for these states are preliminary. For updates, refer to the CDC Travelers’ Health website.

Yellow Fever - CDC Yellow Book

Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
Avoid contaminated water and soil

Clinical Guidance

Schistosomiasis

Wading, swimming, bathing, or washing in contaminated freshwater streams, rivers, ponds, lakes, or untreated pools.

Avoid bug bites

Chagas disease (american trypanosomiasis).

Accidentally rub feces (poop) of the triatomine bug into the bug bite, other breaks in the skin, your eyes, or mouth
From pregnant woman to her baby, contaminated blood products (transfusions), or contaminated food or drink.
Avoid Bug Bites

Chagas disease

Mosquito bite

Leishmaniasis

Sand fly bite
An infected pregnant woman can spread it to her unborn baby

Airborne & droplet

Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
Bite from an infected rodent
Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
Avoid rodents and areas where they live
Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Brazil, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Brazil. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
2-undecanone
Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Some diseases in Brazil—such as dengue, Zika, leishmaniasis, and Chagas disease—are spread by bugs and cannot be prevented with a vaccine. Follow the insect avoidance measures described above to prevent these and other illnesses.

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Brazil include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
Do not dive into shallow water.
Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Schistosomiasis, a parasitic infection that can be spread in fresh water, is found in Brazil. Avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
Go to a doctor right away.
Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

Use latex condoms correctly.
Do not inject drugs.
Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Brazil’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Malaria is a risk in some parts of Brazil. If you are going to a risk area, fill your malaria prescription before you leave, and take enough with you for the entire length of your trip. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking the pills; some need to be started before you leave.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

Wear a seatbelt at all times.
Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Brazil may be poor.
Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
If you choose to drive a vehicle in Brazil, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

For information traffic safety and road conditions in Brazil, see Travel and Transportation on US Department of State's country-specific information for Brazil .

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
Follow all local laws and social customs.
Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

To call for emergency services while in Brazil, dial 192 for an ambulance, 193 for the fire department, and 190 for the police. Write these numbers down to carry with you during your trip.

Learn as much as you can about Brazil before you travel there. A good place to start is the country-specific information on Brazil from the US Department of State.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Brazil for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.

Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.

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Rains, destruction and deaths in the south of Brazil demand a new term to define a climate catastrophe

People in downtown Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul's capital, after the city was invaded by the Guaíba River's waters, this May 5, 2024. Photo by Gustavo Mansur/Palácio Piratini ( CC BY-NC 2.0 ).

On April 27, MetSul , a meteorology agency, posted on X (former Twitter) a warning about a cold front, heavy rain, gales, and hail, and risks of severe weather in parts of Rio Grande do Sul , Brazil's southernmost state. This is the same state that endured three climate disasters in 2023 alone, with 80 people confirmed dead and many cities hit.

The following day, the agency posted another alert : ”Serious risk of floods in southern Brazil because of excessive to extreme rain. It has already rained 200 mm [8 inches] in some areas and projections indicate much more water coming. 2023 scenes of flooded cities will be repeated.”

Two days later, they began to post about overflowing creeks, rising river levels, and flooding while The National Institute of Meteorology (Inmet) put the entire state under alert, showing a varying scale from yellow to red, the latter being the larger portion. On April 30, the local government confirmed eight dead and 21 people disappeared.

Ever since the publication of this story on May 7, the worst natural disaster in the history of Rio Grande do Sul has registered 100 dead, 128 disappeared, and over 1.4 million people affected. Sums that seem still underreported when one sees the images of entire cities underwater.

Among the 497 cities in the state, 414 were hit so far. And, as you read it, there is a chance people are still waiting on roofs for rescue, trapped in houses and buildings surrounded by water. Others are still looking for victims of landslides; and many are without access to clean water, power, or ways of coming and going from their cities, with bridges missing and roads destroyed. The rain is moving south and is forecasted to return to other cities already impacted.

Sinimbu was one of the first cities hit and destroyed by the rains and floods in Rio Grande do Sul. Photo by Gustavo Mansur/Palácio Piratini ( CC BY-NC 2.0 ).

In September 2023, after the worst climate disaster Rio Grande do Sul had registered at the time, re-elected governor Eduardo Leite ( PSDB , Social Democracy Party) said in an interview for Globo News TV channel that ”math models couldn't foresee the volume of rains.” This time, there isn't any surprise.

An expert quoted by Deutsch Welle says the state became a target now because of an overlay of weather phenomenons, like recent heat waves and the influence of El Niño . Although Marcelo Seluchi, coordinator of Cemaden (National Center of Monitoring and Alert for Natural Disasters), says no place in the world would be able to resist this situation, ”there could have been contingency and prevention plans.” ”You can't do it from one week to the other. This is something missing,” he said.

Scenes of a catastrophe

The first cities hit by the local catastrophe that swallowed Rio Grande do Sul registered landslides, bridges destroyed and floods that covered cities and highways, making help even more difficult to arrive.

Esse local é a divisa de Bento Gonçalves com Veranopolis, na ponte dos arcos, uma zona rural. As pessoas costumavam ir até ali, desfrutar dos bares e restaurantes no entorno, com muita comida típica. Tínhamos casas e restaurantes aí e uma rodovia importante. Não há mais nada! 😓 pic.twitter.com/AiUkkYp5NE — 🙌 .•. (@Boscardin) May 3, 2024

This place is at the line between cities of Bento Gonçalves and Veranópolis, in the Arches’ bridge, a rural area. People used to go there to enjoy pubs and restaurantes around, with local cuisine. We had houses and restaurants, an important road. There is nothing anymore.

AGORA | Capa histórica e uma das mais impactantes da história centenária do jornal @correio_dopovo em formato pôster na edição especial desta sexta-feira com a imagem do Vale do Taquari submerso e um raio ao fundo pela tempestade. pic.twitter.com/LY8MCIzTxG — MetSul Meteorologia (@metsul) May 3, 2024

NOW | An historical front page and one of the most impactful ones in the 100 years of Correio do Povo newspaper, in a special edition this Friday, with the image of Taquari Valley submerged and lightning in the background with the storm.

In the state capital, Porto Alegre, the Guaíba River surpassed an 83-year historic mark when it reached 4.77 meters of elevation. It has reached 5.3 meters now — its system limit to cause a flood is 3 meters. Neighborhoods that had never registered floods had to be evacuated, but many residents remained isolated in their homes. Over 85 percent of the population had no access to clean water, even in supermarkets, and the airport is still under water, with flights estimated to be suspended till the end of the month. Nonada , a Global Voices’ partner, had to cease publishing for a few days.

People rescued from islands around Porto Alegre arrived at the city's postcard shore. Photo by Gustavo Mansur/ Palácio Piratini ( CC BY-NC 2.0 ).

While the world, the rest of Brazil and 1.6 million people on the ground watched Madonna's free concert in Rio de Janeiro, on April 4, on social media, people shared addresses with calls for rescue and help in the metropolitan area of Porto Alegre, videos of volunteers working and alarming rumors about corpses and violence.

Imagem emocionante de Canoas, onde pessoas fazem um cordão humano para auxiliar as embarcações usadas nos resgate das pessoas ilhadas. pic.twitter.com/FjuDiWFOyw — Porto Alegre 24 Horas (@portoalegre24h) May 5, 2024

A touching image from Canoas, where people do a human chain to help the watercrafts used to rescue people isolated.

With the high demand for assistance, besides police and the armed forces, many volunteers joined the front amidst the emergency.

Grêmio and Internacional, the two traditional football teams and rivals from Porto Alegre, had their stadiums invaded by waters . While both clubs are trying to stop the national competitions they're playing, footballers from both teams have been helping with rescues and volunteering in donation centres and shelters.

Caíque está ajudando a resgatar as pessoas de barco. Rochet ajudando desde o primeiro dia a fazer e entregar marmitas. Diego Costa conseguiu jet-skis, abrigou pessoas na sua casa e está utilizando seu jipe. Thiago Maia ajudando também. NÃO TEM COMO O CAMPEONATO CONTINUAR! pic.twitter.com/cSjEVuIat3 — Maurício A. 🇪🇪 (@alvesGFBPA_) May 7, 2024

Caíque is helping to rescue people by boat. Rochet is helping since day one to make and to distribute packed lunches. Diego Costa arranged jet-skis, sheltered people in his home and is using his jeep. Thiago Maia is also helping.

Influencers outside of Rio Grande do Sul also joined massive donation campaigns and actions. A Brazilian surfer, Pedro Scooby , gathered friends and travelled by road with jet skies to support the ongoing rescues, digital influencer Felipe Neto managed to rent and arrange trucks to carry drinkable water from a water park to the cities affected, humorist Whinderson Nunes rented aircraft and organized food donations.

Still, reports of financial scams using the floods, politicians and influencers spreading fake news and attempts of robbery and attacks on houses are increasing.

People being rescued from neighborhoods in the northern zone of Porto Alegre, on May 6. Photo by Alex Rocha/PMPA. Free use .

Politics of it

Journalist Isabela Reis crossed news and posts in a thread trying to understand the timeline until the explosion of the climate disaster, calling out the state government for ”neglect and inoperability.” Many on social media complain of people ”trying to politicize the tragedy,” while others emphasize politics has everything to do with it.

To BBC Brazil , executive-secretary to the Climate Watch (Observatório do Clima), Marcio Astrini, said ”The tragedy is also a responsibility of senators and members of the congress who disassemble the environmental legislation,” and stated:

Todo ano o governo do Rio Grande do Sul fica extremamente espantado que as chuvas são intensas. O governo do Rio de Janeiro fica super surpreso quando acontece em Petrópolis. É uma surpresa em São Sebastião (SP), no norte de Minas Gerais, em Recife (PE), no sul da Bahia. Só que acontece que já faz nove anos consecutivos que as médias de temperatura do planeta são as mais quentes já registradas. Não tem mais surpresa. A gente precisa se preparar para isso.

Every year the government of Rio Grande do Sul gets extremely flabbergasted that rains are intense. The government of Rio de Janeiro gets surprised when it happens in Petrópolis. It's a surprise in São Sebastião, São Paulo, in northern Minas Gerais, in Recife (Pernambuco), in the south of Bahia. It happens that it has been nine consecutive years with temperature averages as the hottest ones ever recorded. There is no surprise anymore. We need to brace ourselves for that.

Eduardo Leite, the state governor, defended himself from critics, saying ”this is not the time to look for culprits.” People questioned the state's preparation to mitigate the consequences of the current rains and floods or the aftermath to help out victims. During his two terms, Leite altered points in the environmental legislation, made rules to install dams in environmental preservation areas more flexible , and reduced the 2024 budget destined for the Civil Defense, compared to 2023.

People being rescued in Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul's capital. Photo by Giulian Serafim/PMPA. Free use .

Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva's government ( PT , Workers’ Party) installed a crisis cabinet in the state and recognized calamity status for several cities, which could make a budget increase more accessible and unlimited.

Environment Minister Marina Silva was among the ministers who traveled with Lula to Rio Grande do Sul. In an interview with CNN Brazil , she talked about the idea of a climate emergency decree for 1,942 cities in Brazil that are susceptible to extreme climate occurrences. Marina explained:

Ao decretar emergência climática, você pode ter ações que sejam continuadas, às vezes de remoção de população, de drenagem, de encosta, de uma infraestrutura que seja adequada, sistemas de alerta que sejam rápidos, combinando tecnologia com relação e em integração com a comunidade

When decreeing a climate emergency, you can have continuous actions, sometimes of removing the population, draining, building support, a proper infrastructure, alert systems that can be fast, combining technology with relation and community integration.

Porto Alegre under water. Photo by Ricardo Stuckert/Presidency of the Republic, used with permission.

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