Is Florianópolis safe? 🇧🇷

Florianópolis presents a mixed safety profile for travelers, with a composite safety index of 64/100, indicating a moderate level of safety. While the city is known for its beautiful beaches and is generally considered safe during daylight hours, visitors should exercise a high degree of caution, particularly concerning street crime and personal security.

The data suggests that while violent crime and sexual assault rates are relatively low for Brazil, the worry about being mugged or robbed is moderate, with a crime index of 44.7/100. Traveler sentiment reflects this, with a score of 58/100, indicating a cautious approach is warranted. Many visitors report feeling safe walking in daylight (75/100), but this sentiment drops significantly when considering walking alone at night (46/100).

Recent reports highlight community outrage over the brutal murder of a stray dog named Orelha in Florianópolis in early 2026, leading to protests and calls for justice. While not directly impacting tourist safety, this incident points to underlying social issues and community activism. Separately, there are reports of criminal groups using social media to target young people, a trend that, while not specific to tourists, underscores a general awareness of criminal activity.

To ensure a safe trip, travelers should remain vigilant, especially in crowded areas like beaches and public transport, where pickpocketing and bag-snatching are a moderate risk. Avoid displaying valuables, and do not walk alone in poorly lit or unfamiliar areas after dark. Utilizing reputable taxi services or ride-sharing apps is recommended for nighttime travel. Be aware of potential scams such as distraction theft or overcharging. The government advisories from Canada and the UK recommend exercising a high degree of caution, reinforcing the need for preparedness and awareness.